Unacceptable Risk in Bail Laws: What Does it Mean?
Under the new NSW Bail Act, it is up to the bail authority to determine whether a defendant poses an unacceptable risk to the community if they are released on bail pending their court date. A bail authority can be...
Costs can be Achieved in Criminal Cases
Going to court can be expensive, however if you win, there are occasions when you may be awarded costs, which means that the prosecution has to cover some or all of your costs which may include legal fees or witness expenses....
Can I Get A Pro Bono Criminal Barrister in Australia?
If you need legal assistance and are struggling to meet the cost of a lawyer, there are a few options available to you. You can apply for Legal Aid depending on whether or not you meet the eligibility criteria. If...
Sale of E-Cigarettes Declared Illegal in WA
Western Australia is the first state in the country to ban the sale of e-cigarettes, even though it is still legal to sell and purchase ordinary tobacco products. In a recent landmark ruling, Perth e-cigarette seller Vince Van Heerden was...
How Can I Get My Case Adjourned?
Courts play a central role in enforcing the law and ensuring that justice is served fairly and efficiently. Whilst the goal is often to resolve cases promptly, there are times where it becomes necessary to delay a case to ensure...
Can I Object to the Serving of a Subpoena (NSW)?
Have you recently been served a subpoena? You may feel that the subpoena has problems associated with it or perhaps that the way it was served on you was inappropriate. Consequently, you may be wondering whether you can object to...
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
Lawyers have a reputation for being expensive, but getting legal help for a criminal matter may not be as costly as you think, and it can make a big difference to the outcome of your case. While it is possible...
What can I do about Annoying Neighbours: Noise Control and Nuisance Orders NSW
Having neighbourhood disputes? Why not televise it? At least this is what one Television station in New Zealand has decided to do in their long-running TV show, Neighbours at War. While New Zealand has chosen to cash in on nuisance...
Queensland Police Make First Bitcoin Arrest
A man has been arrested in Queensland in what is believed to be the first bitcoin-related arrest in the state. 21-year-old Shane Duffy of Kingaroy, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, has been charged with possessing tainted property. Police allege some of...
Bipolar and Driving Offences
Mental illness has always been a defence to crimes if the person did not know what they were doing. Our criminal justice system has always included the concept that people who are not responsible for their actions such as children...