The New Bail Act
The new Bail Act 2013 (NSW) has not taken effect in NSW as yet, but is expected to become law in early 2014. The current Bail Act 1978 (“the old Bail Act”) looks at presumptions in relation to bail, and...
Refused Bail? Legal Advice Can Help
If you are arrested on suspicion of committing a crime in NSW and you are charged, police will decide whether or not to grant you bail. Under current legislation, certain offences have a presumption in favour of bail, while others...
Can I Carry Dog Mace in Australia?
Dog spray, sometimes known as dog mace, is sold as a deterrent against dog attacks. The spray is contained in canisters, and when released acts as an irritant to dogs. Dog mace works in the event of a dog attack...
How to Survive a Community Service Order
Once you have pleaded guilty, or been found guilty, of your charges one of the sentencing options open to a Magistrate is that of a Community Service Order (CSO). This option will have been assessed by the Community Corrections Officer...
Is Stealing Mail in Australia Illegal?
Stealing mail is a Commonwealth offence in Australia, and comes with potentially harsh penalties. If you are caught stealing mail in Australia, you could face a hefty prison sentence or large fines. Mail theft is considered serious in Australia, as...
Assisting a Senior Criminal Lawyer or Barrister in a Defended Hearing or Jury Trial
This video and article is designed to help junior criminal lawyers who are assisting ‘Counsel’ in a defended hearing or jury trial. This article is designed to help junior criminal lawyers who are assisting ‘Counsel’ in a defended hearing or jury...
Penalties for Being Caught Trespassing with a Speargun in Sydney
Trespassing with a speargun or other firearm is an offence under Section 93H(1) of the Crimes Act. In order to be found guilty of this offence, there are a number of factors that need to be in place. This offence...
Appealing a Dangerous Dog Declaration
If you receive a notice of intention to declare your dog dangerous, you have two options. You can accept the declaration, make the necessary amendments to your lifestyle and abide by the restrictions that owners of dangerous dogs are required...
What is a Pre Sentence Report?
A Pre-Sentence Report is requested by the Court if you plead to, or are found guilty of, your offence. If the Magistrate or Judge is considering a full time gaol sentence for your matter then, in order to be able...
What is the NSW AVO Process?
An AVO is a court document that is intended to protect someone from harassment or violence from another. AVOs are commonly taken out in situations where there is domestic abuse, but they can also be used to protect vulnerable people...
