Our client, a 20-year-old male, appeared before the Werribee Magistrates’ Court charged with a range of serious assault-related offences, including involvement in a gang-style attack and weapons offences. The allegations involved multiple co-offenders, and the incident was described by police as both violent and premeditated.
To make matters more complex, our client had a significant criminal history for similar violent offending, raising real concerns about the likelihood of a full-time custodial sentence.
From the outset, our legal team at Elbob & Stephenson Legal undertook a comprehensive sentencing preparation strategy, including:
In court, we made powerful submissions that the objectives of sentencing—punishment, deterrence, and community safety—could still be met without incarceration. We argued that further imprisonment at this stage would be counterproductive and potentially entrench our client in the cycle of offending, whereas continued community supervision and intervention would provide a greater chance of long-term rehabilitation.
After careful consideration, the Magistrate was persuaded to impose a Community Correction Order (CCO) instead of full-time imprisonment. The CCO included intensive supervision, mandatory treatment programs, and strict compliance conditions.
This outcome meant our client:
Facing serious assault or weapons charges with a criminal history? Even when the stakes are high, it’s possible to avoid imprisonment with the right legal representation. At Elbob & Stephenson Legal, we fight for second chances—and know how to build the strongest case for your freedom.
