It might seem obvious that if a recording took place without your knowledge or consent, it should not be used against you. However, in New South Wales, the reality is more complicated. Is it illegal to secretly record someone? Generally, yes, it is illegal to secretly record someone. Under the Surveillance Devices Act 2007 (NSW), […]
If someone taped me without permission, can the police still use it? Read More »
When someone is sentenced to prison in New South Wales, their sentence is usually divided into two parts: a non-parole period and a parole period. Understanding the difference between these is critical, as it determines when a person may be released and what happens after they leave custody. What is a non-parole period? The non-parole
From prison to freedom: How parole and non-parole periods work in NSW Read More »
With major crackdowns across New South Wales, selling illegal tobacco or vaping products is no longer treated as a minor regulatory issue; it is now considered serious criminal conduct. They introduced some of the toughest enforcement powers. One of the most serious and immediate consequences is a short-term closure order. The new closure order powers
Police Crackdown on illegal vapes and tobacco: Can I be sent to prison? Read More »
When your child is charged with a criminal offence, it can feel overwhelming, frightening and uncertain. Many parents ask the same question: What is the best day to protect my child? The answer starts with understanding how the Children’s Court of NSW works and what makes it different from the adult court, as well as
Circle sentencing brings the court, offender, victims, respected elders and community members together to determine an appropriate sentence. It is a specialist sentencing process within the NSW Local Court designed for Aboriginal offenders. It is a structured, culturally informed sentencing process aimed at accountability, rehabilitation and reducing reoffending. It is a restorative justice process designed
Circle sentencing in NSW: How do Indigenous courts work? Read More »
The police have approached you, and they say they want to ask you a few questions. Should you agree, or do you exercise your right to silence and say nothing at all? A police interview can be both formal and informal. It can range from a casual chat to a recorded formal interview. Even seemingly
The police want to speak to me: What should I do? Read More »
Can police legally strip-search you while at a music festival? If drugs are found, does that mean the search was lawful? These questions have become highly relevant recently as strip searches at festivals have attracted legal ramifications. Historically, festivals have been a hotspot for police drug operations. With courts finding many searches unlawful, understanding how
Police strip-searched me and found drugs: Am I guilty? Read More »
Are conversations with my lawyer actually confidential? One of the most common concerns people have before speaking with a lawyer is whether what they share will remain confidential. The short answer is yes. This is known as client privilege. Lawyers are generally prohibited from sharing what you tell them, as confidentiality is a fundamental part
How does client privilege work? Read More »
Wrongfully accused of sexual assault Whilst rarely spoken about, false accusations of sexual assault do happen. They are not insignificant, or an anomaly and they matter. Even if the accused person is found not guilty, being wrongfully accused of a sexual assault can destroy their life. From lasting psychological damage, loss of employment or career
Wrongfully accused of sexual assault? It happens. Read More »
Changes to Section 32 and the NSW forensic mental health law Section 32 has seen significant changes under new legislation in NSW. New legislation commenced, revising the way defendants that suffer mental health issues and are charged with a criminal offence are dealt with by the courts. The Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions
New legislation impacting Section 32 Read More »
