Articles

Binding Financial Agreements in Australia: What They Are and the Risks if Not Done Properly Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) are a useful legal tool that allow couples to set out how their assets, liabilities, and financial resources will be divided if their relationship ends. While they are often referred to as ‘prenups’, they can also…

If you are convicted or sentenced in a criminal matter in New South Wales, you may have the right to appeal the decision. An appeal allows a higher court to review the decision of a lower court to determine whether a legal, factual, or procedural error occurred. Types of Appeals in NSW Criminal appeals in…

Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) in New South Wales Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) are court orders designed to protect individuals from violence, harassment, intimidation, or threats. They play an important role in New South Wales’ system of personal and domestic safety. Types of AVOs There are two main types of AVOs in NSW: How an AVO…

Stalking and Intimidation in New South Wales (Section 13 Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007) Stalking and intimidation are serious criminal offences in New South Wales. They are designed to protect individuals from repeated harassment, threats, or behaviour that causes fear or distress. The Law – Section 13 Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act…

Summary vs Indictable Offences in New South Wales In New South Wales, all criminal charges fall into one of two main categories — summary offences or indictable offences. The distinction is crucial, as it determines how a matter proceeds through the court system, the potential penalties, and whether the accused has a right to a…

Destroying or Damaging Property in New South Wales (Section 195 Crimes Act 1900) Destroying or damaging property is a serious offence in New South Wales. It covers a wide range of conduct—from vandalism and graffiti to deliberate destruction of another person’s property. The Law – Section 195 Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) Section 195 of the…

Court Stages in the Supreme Court (NSW) The Supreme Court of New South Wales deals with the most serious criminal matters in the state. These include offences such as murder, manslaughter, large-scale drug importation, and terrorism-related offences. Because of the seriousness of these charges, the process in the Supreme Court is highly formal and closely…

Court Stages in the Local Court (NSW) When a person is charged with a criminal offence in New South Wales, their matter will usually begin in the Local Court. The Local Court handles the majority of criminal cases, including summary offences and many indictable matters that can be dealt with summarily. First Appearance – Mention…

Court Stages in the District Court (NSW) The District Court of New South Wales deals with serious criminal offences that go beyond the jurisdiction of the Local Court. These matters are typically referred to as indictable offences and may include charges such as serious assaults, drug trafficking, fraud, and sexual offences. How a Case Reaches…