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 »
On 1 March 2026, significant changes to youth criminal law in New South Wales came into effect, with the codification of the Doli Incapax test under section 5 of the Children’s (Criminal Proceeding) Act 1987 (NSW). The reform represents a major shift in how courts assess criminal responsibility for children aged between 10 and 13,
Doli Incapax Reforms in NSW: What the New Law Means for Children and Their Defence Read More »
New South Wales police have intensified their crackdown on illegal e-bikes, targeting riders using modified or non-compliant devices as part of a statewide enforcement push. Under ongoing operations such as ‘Operation E-Voltage’, officers are actively policing roads and public spaces, issuing fines, seizing bikes, and laying charges against riders who breach the law. During the
NSW E-Bike Crackdown: Fines, Seizures and What It Means for You 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 »
Following the protests in Sydney yesterday, many peaceful protesters were left confused and distressed after police intervened and used force, including tear gas against them, leaving some injured. If you are confused about what your rights are while protesting, you are not alone. Many people assume that if a protest is peaceful, the police have
I was peacefully protesting: Can police still stop me? 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 »
