Methylphenidate and Ritalin: What You Need to Know

Methylphenidate and Ritalin: What You Need to Know

Methylphenidate and Ritalin: What You Need to Know The use and abuse of a psychostimulant with or without a prescription has increased exponentially in Australia and across the globe. Methylphenidate is a schedule 8 drug and is seen as a drug of addiction or a controlled drug. It is, therefore, illegal to use or purchase Methylphenidate without a prescription in NSW. …

Is Verbal Abuse A Crime?

Is Verbal Abuse A Crime?

Is Verbal Abuse a Crime? Verbal abuse can be a criminal offence if it is classified as “intimidation” under the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 with penalties of up to 5-years imprisonment or a $5,500 fine. It can also be considered “offensive language” resulting in a $660 fine. Additionally, it may fall under the new coercive control offences…

International Licence Demerit Points in NSW

International Licence Demerit Points in NSW

International Licence Demerit Points in NSW In Australia, the laws and driving regulations are different in every State and Territory. For example, the use of a foreign licence in NSW is outlined in Regulation 96 of the Road Transport (Driver Licencing) Regulation 2017 (NSW).  Visitors such as tourists, students, and people with working or visiting visas were permitted to use…

A Complete Guide to Breach of Confidentiality Law

A Complete Guide to Breach of Confidentiality Law

A Complete Guide to Breach of Confidentiality Law It is important to understand the implications when a confidentiality breach occurs. A breach of confidentiality can result in legal actions against an offender.  Breach of Confidentiality Laws in Australia The Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) promotes and protects an individual’s privacy and confidential information. The Privacy Act 1988 refers to how a…

Are Vapes Illegal in NSW?

Are Vapes Illegal in NSW?

Are Vapes Illegal in NSW? Vapes and vaping have become increasingly popular amongst younger people. The long-term health effects of vape use are not widely known, but research suggests it may lead to serious health issues. In light of this, several new laws regarding the use of nicotine, vapes or e-cigarettes and e-liquid have been introduced in Australia’s States and…

Kratom: Is it Legal in Australia

Kratom: Is it Legal in Australia

Kratom: Is it Legal in Australia? Is Kratom Legal in Australia? Kratom is illegal in several countries, including Australia. People have mixed feelings about Kratom. Some are calling for this substance to be more regulated with harsher penalties, while others have strong opinions on the benefits and effectiveness of Kratom.  However, Kratom is addictive. It has many adverse side effects,…

Legal Age of Consent in Australia

Legal Age of Consent in Australia

Legal Age of Consent in Australia Criminal laws in Australia deals severely with offenders engaging in illegal sexual activities with a child or a young person under the legal age of consent determined by each State and Territory in Australia.   The Purpose of Age of Consent Laws in Australia Consent can be defined as a person’s free and voluntary agreement…

A Quick Guide to Drink Driving Laws and Penalties in NSW

A Quick Guide to Drink Driving Laws and Penalties in NSW

A Quick Guide to Drink Driving Laws and Penalties in NSW The Road Transport Act 2013 set out drink driving offences and penalties. Drink driving is considered a serious criminal offence in New South Wales. A drink driving offence may result in a criminal conviction with penalties and a criminal record. It is important to understand the various laws and penalties applicable…

What Is A Presentence Report?

What Is A Presentence Report?

What Is A Presentence Report? A Pre-Sentence Report is requested by the Court if you plead to, or are found guilty of a criminal law offence in NSW.  If the Court is considering a full time custodial sentence for your matter then, in order to assist the court to consider all options, a report will be provided by community corrections…

Can a Criminal Record be cleared in Australia?

Can a Criminal Record be cleared in Australia?

Can a Criminal Record be cleared in Australia? A criminal record is when there is a finding of guilt or you plead guilty to an offence and the sentence imposed upon you records a criminal conviction. However, a criminal record can be cleared on the basis of a crime free period. All Australian states and territories have laws restricting the…