A drink driving charge can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time dealing with police or a court. Losing your licence, even temporarily, can affect your ability to get to work, care for family, or run a business. This article explains, in plain English, how drink driving offences work in NSW, what the likely…
In NSW criminal and traffic matters, being found guilty does not automatically mean a conviction is recorded. Under section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 (NSW), a court can find a person guilty but decide not to record a conviction at all. This matters because a recorded conviction can affect visa applications, some…
If you have an upcoming court date in New South Wales, speaking with a solicitor before that date — not on the morning of court — generally gives you a better understanding of the process, more time to gather evidence, and more options. Legal representation can be directly relevant to bail applications, the timing of…
Technology now shapes almost every stage of a Local Court matter in New South Wales. People in custody usually appear by video link, most first bail applications after a police bail refusal are heard in a virtual Bail Division, some pleas can be lodged in writing, civil claims can be filed and managed online, and…
If you receive a jury summons in NSW, you must respond to it. You cannot simply ignore it. You may be able to be excused, exempted or have your service deferred if you have proper grounds under the Jury Act 1977 (NSW), but you need to apply to the NSW Sheriff’s Office, generally at least…
This article applies to civil claims in New South Wales, primarily under the Local Court Act 2007 (NSW), the Civil Procedure Act 2005 (NSW) and the Local Court Rules 2009 (NSW). It is general information only and is not legal advice. Owed Money and Not Sure What to Do Next? Chasing an unpaid invoice, a…
In New South Wales, you generally have the right to remain silent when questioned by police. You cannot usually be punished, and a court cannot usually hold your silence against you, if you choose not to answer police questions. There are important exceptions: in some situations you must provide your name and address, drivers have…
Common assault is an offence under section 61 of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW). It covers conduct that causes another person to fear immediate unlawful violence, or unwanted physical contact, where no real injury is caused. The maximum penalty is 2 years imprisonment. It is a Table 2 offence, which means it is dealt with…
A statutory declaration is a written statement that you sign and formally declare to be true. In New South Wales it is made under the Oaths Act 1900 (NSW), must use the wording in the Eighth or Ninth Schedule of that Act, and must be signed in front of an authorised witness such as a…
What Is a Private AVO? An Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) is a civil order made by the Local Court to protect a person from violence, intimidation or stalking. Most AVOs are applied for by NSW Police on a person’s behalf. A private AVO is different — you (the person seeking protection) file the application yourself…
