How to Write a Letter of Apology to the Court
Criminal defence lawyers recommend writing an apology letter to the magistrate or judge presiding over a client’s case in circumstances when an individual plans on pleading guilty to the charge or charges that have been laid against their name. New South...
Suspicious Amendment of Criminal Law Judgement Results In Successful Appeal
A recent decision by the New South Wales Court of Criminal Appeal has raised eyebrows over the finding that official court records relating to a sentencing hearing were amended well after the case had been finalised to suggest the presiding...
Character References Must Disclose Knowledge of Offences
Character references are normally handed-up to a court during the sentencing hearing; which is when the court decides the penalty that will be imposed on a defendant. These references are an important way to show the defendant has accepted responsibility...
In What Circumstances Can I Change My Plea of Guilty to Not Guilty in NSW?
A man who unexpectedly pleaded guilty to murdering American Scott Johnson in 1988, has had his conviction quashed on appeal and will now face trial for murder in the Supreme Court of New South Wales. Scott Johnson’s naked body was...
How to Write a Character Reference for Court
When someone close to you is pleading guilty to a criminal or traffic charge, the magistrate is permitted to take into account his or her character. In fact, evidence of good character - as well as any steps taken to...
Sydney Brothers Not Guilty of Manslaughter
Our client is a 40 year old man from Greystanes in greater Western Sydney. He lived with his older brother and elderly mother until her death in September 2017. On 23 August 2017, our client and his brother called an...
The Rules for Changing a Plea from Guilty to Not Guilty
On 30 June 2004, Raymond Wong pleaded guilty before a magistrate in the Sydney Local Court to one count of committing an act of indecency, contrary to repealed section 61N of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW). At the time, Wong...
Can I Change My Plea from Guilty to Not Guilty?
Defendants who are charged with criminal offences are often unsure as to how they should plead. This uncertainty may arise as a result of not fully understanding the essential elements (or ingredients) of the charges they are facing. They may...
Criminal Lawyers Criticise New Guilty Plea Rules
The NSW government is introducing strict rules relating to guilty pleas which it says will increase the likelihood of defendants pleading guilty to criminal offences. The changes, which are expected to come into effect in April 2018, are aimed at...
Defendant Appeals after Pleading Guilty Due to Incorrect Legal Advice
On the afternoon of 26 May 2015, Brett Ritchie was pulled over by police as he was driving down the Oxley Highway near Wauchope. The officers then arrested him due to outstanding warrants. Whilst standing next to the car, Mr...
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