Keeping Up With Changing Morals: The Role of Law Reform Commissions in Australia
Social values are constantly changing, so it’s only natural that laws should adapt to reflect contemporary values. But have you ever wondered who is responsible for initiating law reform? Of course, the parliament enacts and abolishes laws. But in Australia,...
Parker Warnings, Double Counting and the De Simoni Principles – Know The Law
Sentencing is a challenging exercise which tests the skills of even the most experienced criminal lawyers, magistrates and judges. And when courts are too heavy-handed, an appeal may be the best way to set things straight. The following outlines three...
Top Ten Tips For Representing Yourself When Pleading Guilty to Drink Driving
Drink driving is one of the most common criminal offences before the NSW courts. Many people charged with drink driving will wish to plead guilty and get it over with, but won’t have the financial resources to hire a lawyer....
In trouble with the law over the holidays? Getting bail over the silly season
The courts are generally closed over the holiday season. So what happens if you or a loved-one is accused of a serious crime and police refuse to let you out of custody? Will you have to wait until the holidays...
Is the Tightening of Bail Laws in NSW making the Magistrate’s Role Redundant?
The flipping and flopping of politicians when it comes to bail laws is enough to make you mad. Just keeping abreast of the likely changes in order to decide whether and, if so, when to make a bail application (now...
How Much does a Criminal Lawyer Cost?
It’s no secret that lawyers have a reputation for being notoriously expensive. And with some charging upwards of $800 an hour, perhaps it’s no surprise that lawyers are not amongst the most loved professions in the world. On top of...
How Have Changes to the Bail Act Affected Remand Numbers?
The new Bail Act, which came into effect in May this year, has had a significant impact on the number of defendants being granted bail. Although the Bail Act has been controversial, with requests for it to be reviewed only...
Can I Avoid a Conviction and Licence Disqualification if I am Guilty of a second or more Major Traffic Offence?
Section 10 dismissal or conditional release order of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 (NSW) is a way to avoid a criminal conviction and, in driving cases, a licence disqualification and fine. The section may apply if you plead guilty,...
Recent Centrelink Fraud Cases
Fraudulently obtaining payments through Centrelink is a Commonwealth offence and can come with serious penalties. Like most other Commonwealth offences, all Centrelink fraud cases in Australia are prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP). Centrelink fraud can cover...
Can I Change Paying My Centrelink Debt to Community Service?
If you have been overpaid by Centrelink you will have a debt raised against you. Even if you have done nothing wrong, or the overpayment was a result of a genuine mistake on your part, you will still be required...
