The Implications of Funding Cuts to Legal Aid in NSW
In the United States of America, it is written in the Constitution that accused criminals have the right to have the assistance of counsel in their defence. If a defendant cannot afford counsel, then the government pays. In Australia, we...
A Further Increase of Police Powers in NSW?
After already adding to the police powers with reforms, the Attorney General Brad Hazzard wants to go even further down the path of increasing police powers in NSW, allowing for measures that his latest press release says will allow police...
Should We Raise The Drinking Age?
Every few years the question crops up: should the drinking age be raised to 21? Often proponents of such a plan speak up after a tragic case involving teenagers and alcohol ends in fatality, as well as ongoing scientific research...
What are the Penalties in Sydney for Street Racing?
In recent years, a number of new offences have been added to the Vehicle Sanctions Scheme in an attempt to reduce the amount of hoon behaviour that takes place on the roads in Sydney. Street racing is considered one of these offences,...
What are the Wider Effects of a Criminal Conviction?
Having a criminal conviction on your record can have lasting consequences. Not all convictions are for serious offences, yet a conviction can still end up being a nuisance for years into the future. For example, you might have a conviction...
Getting a DUI Dismissed if Diagnosed with Depression
If you have been diagnosed with a mental condition like depression, you may be able to have criminal charges against you dismissed under a Section 32 order. Section 32 is a provision of the Mental Health (Forensic Provisions) Act which allows...
Do I Need a Traffic Lawyer?
Traffic matters can range from a speeding ticket right up to very serious offences like dangerous driving occasioning death. While many of us may have got caught by a red light or speed camera, when it comes to contesting a...
When Small Matters Turn Into Large Legal Problems
Two recent incidents have cast a spotlight on how small matters can quickly turn into monumental legal issues. A Queensland man caused a hijacking scare on a flight to Bali on Friday after mistaking the cockpit for the toilet, while...
Representations: How to Get Your Case Dropped Before it Reaches a Defended Hearing or Jury Trial
Our video and Blog post below discusses the question: What are Representations? What are Representations? Representations are basically letters to the prosecution asking them to drop some or all, or reduce the seriousness, of charges brought against you. Charges can...
Providing a Personal Reference in Court
Do you know someone who is facing criminal charges and has to go to court? Providing a personal reference for someone who is going to court can help them present a favourable impression to the judge or magistrate, and may help...
