Articles

The age of consent varies across Australian states. The idea of an age of consent is designed to protect children, who are incapable of consenting due to their lack of maturity. Due to the complexity of sexual assault charges, it is important to consult an experienced criminal defence lawyer if the age of consent is […]

In recent years there has been an increase in the prominence of laser pointers and their use in various contexts. A number of pieces of legislation in NSW deal with the legality of laser pointers and potential penalties. What Are Laser Pointers? Laser pointers are compact, battery-powered devices made to project a concentrated laser beam. […]

In Australia, there are strict breach of confidentiality laws that govern privacy and access to personal information.   The term “confidentiality” refers to the moral and legal duty to safeguard private information disclosed in an interpersonal, professional, or organisational setting. Confidentiality is regarded as essential for protecting privacy, trust, and integrity in areas such as […]

NRL journalist Paul Kent has been charged with affray in Sydney. A video has surfaced which allegedly depicts the incident. The 54-year-old was granted bail by police and has his first court date on May 24. There is a co-accused who faces similar charges. Paul Kent Affray Paul Kent presented at Newtown Police Station this […]

An AVO for harassment is a legally enforceable court order which restricts the behaviour of a person. The standard conditions of an Apprehended Violence Order prohibit the defendant from assaulting, harassing, threatening, intimidating, stalking, damaging property or harming pets of the person in need of protection (PINOP). What is Harassment? Harassment is any unwanted behaviour […]

Victims of verbal abuse often wonder whether it is a crime and whether there is any recourse for them. This is particularly so when it occurs in the context of a domestic violence situation. Obtaining an apprehended violence order (AVO) is a possibility but only in circumstances where the conduct meets the requisite criteria. What […]

Jaywalking is illegal in most of Australia. The penalties vary from state to state. It is a term that originated in the USA but has been adopted in countries throughout the world, including Australia. Jaywalking is seen to present a danger to both pedestrians and traffic which has led to its criminalisation in many jurisdictions. […]

Central Coast Mariners forward Angel Torres has been charged with sexual assault and suspended by Football Australia. The suspension is currently on a ‘no-fault’ basis until the matter is resolved – something that could take over 12 months. The club released a statement emphasising that no finding of guilt has yet been made. Angel Torres […]

Lawyers are regularly asked about the difference between battery and assault. Both concepts deal with the use of physical force against another person. This article explores both ideas and how they are dealt with today. What is assault? An assault is any deliberate action where a person intentionally or recklessly instils in another the fear […]

Cipher phones and apps used by organised crime organisations to facilitate and plan large-scale criminal acts have led to the Australian Government introducing reforms to the Crimes Act 1900. As a result of successful police operations, the Dedicated Encrypted Criminal Communication Device Prohibition Orders Bill 2022 was introduced to directly address the use of cipher […]