Being prosecuted for a criminal or traffic offence can be a nerve-wracking experience. You may be unfamiliar with the process, unsure of the best way forward and concerned about the outcome. But whether you are charged with a less-serious matter such as drug possession, drink driving or common assault, or accused of something as serious ...
Category: Violent Disorder
Police Want Lockout Laws Across the State
By Sonia Hickey and Ugur Nedim The NSW lockout laws were hailed a success at the end of last year, with data suggesting the clamp-down on bars and nightclubs has reduced violence in the city centre and Kings Cross precinct by as much as 40%. However, protests by affected businesses and an independent review led ...
Violence in Sport: What Does the Law Say?
It seems like a week doesn’t go by without a footy player being in the media spotlight for a criminal offence – whether ‘recreational’ drug use, a nightclub brawl, or even worse, domestic violence. Believe it or not, many footballers have even committed crimes in front of your very eyes! You may have even cheered ...
Sydney Nightlife is Dead, and Queensland is Set to Follow
Queensland bars and clubs will be prohibited from selling shots and high alcohol content drinks after midnight, under new rules intended to curb alcohol-fuelled violence in that state. From 1st July, patrons will also be prevented from buying alcohol after 2am or 3am in ‘safe night’ precincts. A spokesman for Queensland Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath has ...
Police to Breathalyse Patrons Inside Clubs
Queensland: Home to some of Australia’s most picturesque beaches and natural reefs, it’s a popular holiday destination for tourists looking to relax and unwind. And towards the end of the year, the Sunshine State is the preferred party destination for school leavers (‘schoolies’) around the country, with the Gold Coast offering an endless array of ...
Do Bouncers Need Better Training?
An inquest into the death of a man manhandled by bouncers at Crown Casino in Melbourne has given rise to the question of whether or not bouncers have enough training, and whether industry regulations are being adequately enforced. Anthony Dunning and two of his friends were enjoying a night out at Crown after a day ...
When is it in the Public Interest to Lay Criminal Charges?
The recent public fistfight between casino billionaire James Packer and media heavyweight David Gyngell raises an interesting issue of whether police should still investigate an incident and lay charges if the people involved don’t want to take the matter further. The men, who are long-time friends, were seen fighting outside Packer’s home at Bondi in ...