All in Offences
What are Dedicated Encrypted Criminal Communication Device Prohibition Orders?
New laws have been introduced by the New South Wales Government that target the possession and use of encrypted devices by people suspected of being involved in serious criminal activity. Here is what you need to know, if police serve you with a Dedicated Encrypted Criminal Device Prohibition Order.
New affirmative consent laws in NSW
NSW has become the first state in Australia to introduce affirmative consent laws that require a person to do or say something to confirm consent by another person to a sexual act. In this article we break down what the new legislative changes are and how things are changed for sexual assault prosecutions.
High range drink driving / high range PCA
Drink driving is one of the most common offences sentenced in in the Local Court in NSW. There is a Guideline Judgment which gives guidance about what makes out a typical case and what sentencing options are available. Read on here to find out more.
Spotlight: Use carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence
Using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence is a Commonwealth offence that attracts a maximum penalty of 3 years imprisonment. What’s a carriage service? What are the likely penalties? We shine the spotlight on what type of conduct it involves, what the prosecution must prove and the penalties that might be imposed. Read on here.
ADVOs and domestic violence charges - first steps
What happens when you’ve been charged with a domestic violence offence and have been given an interim ADVO by police? What does it all mean and how can we help you? Read on to find out more.
COVID-19 - New laws for criminal matters
The NSW Government has today passed a suite of new laws to deal with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. What does this mean for criminal matters? There are new police powers, consideration for early parole of prisoners, changes to domestic violence matters and changes to the way in which courts will operate. Read on to find out more.
Drugs and music festivals
The NSW government has recently introduced drug amnesty bins in an attempt to prevent drug related deaths at festivals. Even so, police will still be in attendance at festivals and will take action where drugs are brought it. If you attend festivals, you should be aware of what the police can do and what legal implications there are if you are found in possession of a prohibited substance. Read on for more info…
Going to court for your criminal matter - FAQs
Going to court for the first time can be a daunting and nerve-racking time. Here are some answers to questions we are commonly asked.
Corporate criminal prosecutions in the Federal Court - Part 1
In March 2019, the Federal Government announced funding of $35 million to support the expansion of the Federal Court into corporate crime. It is anticipated that there will a large increase in the investigation and prosecution of corporate crime as a result of the Royal Commission into Misconduct in Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry and ASIC’s renewed vigour and focus on litigation.
Summary matters in the Local Court - what's the process?
So you or a friend or family member has been charged with an offence – where to from here? Read on to find out what happens in the Local Court. Navigating the court process is not always easy or straight forward. Let us know if we can help you.
What do you know about common assault?
The offence of common assault is amongst the most common offences that come before the local court. The offence covers a wide range of different behaviours. The courts look at common assault offences very seriously. Always get legal advice before making a decision about what you will do in court. Read on to find out more…
You've been charged with domestic violence related offences? What now?
Have you been charged with an offence relating to domestic violence? If so, before you make a decision about what plea you will enter, you need to make sure you understand the nature of the charges against you and what options are available to you. Be aware there can be unexpected consequences that come along with a criminal conviction. It is important to get legal advice early, so that you can make an informed decision.
Four things to consider if you've been charged with drug possession
So, you’ve been charged with drug possession? The courts view drug possession charges very seriously, so you can’t write it off like it didn’t happen.
Media reporting of criminal matters
Having your name or picture published in the media in relation to a crime alleged against you can have a domino effect on your life. Even if you are acquitted of the charges, your reputation may never mend. What can the media report about you when you have been charged with a criminal offence?
Newsflash: new penalties for drivers caught drink driving
A new set of penalties have been introduced for drivers caught drink or drug driving. for some drivers, this may mean an on-the-spot fine and an immediate suspension from driving of three months.
New tobacco offences
A bill introduced to Federal Parliament this week introduces new tobacco offences with higher maximum penalties.