Author: jack

Many people with an old criminal record hope that once they have done their time, the past is behind them. When new charges arise, one of the first questions they ask is whether previous convictions will come back to haunt them. The answer is that your history can matter in several different ways – but…

Most people do not expect a heated argument in public to end with criminal charges, but it can happen more easily than you think. What starts as raised voices on the street, outside a venue or on public transport can quickly escalate into allegations of offensive behaviour, intimidation or even assault.  Understanding where the legal…

When relationships break down, emotions can run high and practical problems pile up very quickly. Many people suddenly find themselves dealing with police, courts and lawyers for the first time in their lives, and it is not always clear which issue belongs in which part of the legal system.  The same argument or incident can…

When you are first served with an Apprehended Violence Order in New South Wales, it is easy to focus only on the court date. In reality, the conditions on the order can start affecting your life straight away – where you can live, who you can contact, your work, your licences and even future family…

Being arrested and held in custody is confronting for anyone, especially if it is your first experience of the criminal justice system. One of the biggest questions for you and your family is whether you will be granted bail or remain in custody while your matter goes through the courts. Understanding how that decision is…

What is drug possession? Drug possession usually involves smaller quantities of a prohibited drug held for personal use. To prove possession, the prosecution must show that you had physical control of the substance and that you knew it was there and that it was a prohibited drug. Typical examples include drugs found in your pocket,…

Step 1: Stay calm and exercise your right to silence If police approach you about an alleged assault, you must provide your name and address, but you do not have to answer detailed questions about what happened. What you say in those first conversations can be recorded and later used as evidence. Staying calm, avoiding…

In New South Wales, your criminal record is essentially a list of offences where a court has found you guilty and recorded a conviction. That can include common assault, theft, fraud, property damage, drug offences and serious traffic matters such as drink driving and driving while disqualified. Minor issues that are dealt with by way…

If police contact you and ask you to attend a station for an interview, it is natural to feel anxious. Many people worry that refusing to talk will make things worse, or that agreeing to an interview will “clear everything up”. In reality, what happens at a police interview can have a major impact on…