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,...
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...
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...
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,...
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...
Assault is one of the most commonly charged criminal offences in New South Wales, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. Many people assume assault only involves punching or causing physical injury. In reality, the legal definition of assault is much broader....
