Criminal Law
Cyberbullying Laws in Australia: When Online Behaviour Becomes a Criminal Offence
Introduction The internet has transformed the way Australians communicate. Social media platforms, messaging apps, gaming communities and online forums have made it easier than ever to stay connected. Unfortunately, they have also created new opportunities for...
Stalking and Intimidation Charges in NSW: What Conduct Is Illegal?
Introduction Stalking and intimidation offences are among the most commonly prosecuted criminal offences in New South Wales. While many people associate these offences with repeated following or threatening behaviour, the law is much broader than many realise. Conduct...
Car Accident Criminal Charges in NSW: Dangerous Driving, Negligent Driving and Police Investigations
Introduction Every year, thousands of motor vehicle accidents occur across New South Wales. While many collisions result in insurance claims and civil disputes, some accidents lead to criminal investigations where police believe a driver has committed a traffic or...
Failing to Stop After a Traffic Accident in NSW: What the Law Requires
Introduction Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can be a frightening and stressful experience. In the moments immediately following a collision, many drivers panic, particularly where someone has been injured, alcohol or drugs may be involved, or they fear...
Property Damage Charges in NSW: Malicious Damage Explained and Possible Defences
Introduction Property damage offences are among the most commonly prosecuted criminal offences in New South Wales. They range from relatively minor acts such as graffiti or damaging a fence through to serious incidents involving arson, extensive vandalism or...
Will Charges Show on a Police Check? Learn How Criminal Records Work in NSW
One of the first questions many people ask after being charged with a criminal offence is, "Will this show up on a police check?" The answer is not always straightforward. Whether a charge or conviction appears on a police check depends on several factors, including...
Pleading Guilty or Not Guilty in NSW? Understand the Risks and Legal Strategy
One of the most important decisions a person can make after being charged with a criminal offence in New South Wales is whether to plead guilty or not guilty. It is a decision that can have lasting consequences for your criminal record, employment, family, finances...
Need a Character Reference? Learn How to Write One That Helps in NSW Court
When someone is facing criminal charges in New South Wales, a well-written character reference can make a meaningful difference at sentencing. Magistrates and judges are not only concerned with the offence itself—they also want to understand the person standing before...
How Does an AVO Affect Your Life? Learn the Impact on Work, Travel and Family
An Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) can have a significant impact on your life, even if you have never been convicted of a criminal offence. While an AVO is a civil court order designed to protect another person from violence, intimidation, harassment or stalking,...
Police Search Laws NSW: Know Your Rights and When You Can Refuse
Being stopped and searched by police can be an intimidating experience, particularly if you have never had any interaction with the criminal justice system. Many people are unsure whether they must comply with a search, whether they can refuse, or what police are...