The Magistrate Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) is a program that treats adult offenders who have an admitted illicit drug problem, with the view of reducing drug related crime. This is a voluntarily program. Magistrates have the discretion to considers your compliance with the treatment program, and individuals who complete MERIT are often considered to […]
Weird and Wacky Wills
It is estimate that over half of all Australians do not have a will, this can often lead to problems when dealing with the deceased’s estate. You should give careful consideration to your wishes when you die and who should inherit your estate. That being said, a will is often used for some weird […]
Is a reverse mortgage really a good idea?
A reverse mortgage is essentially money being advanced to a person who owns their home. There are no repayments and the loan amount and accumulated interest is deducted from the sale of the property. Reverse mortgages need to be treated with great care, the interest on these lines of credit can be so great […]
Is Intimidation a crime in NSW?
Yes, the offence is stalking, or intimidation is under section 13 the Crimes (Domestic & Personal Violence) Act 2007. The penalty for this offence is 50 penalty units and/or 5 years imprisonment. What is intimidation? conduct (including cyber-bullying) amounting to harassment or molestation of the person, or an approach made to the person […]
Electronic signing of legal documents during COVID-19
New South Wales has introduced temporary legislation to allow for electronic signing during the COVID-19 crises under the Electronic Transactions Amendment (COVID-19 Witnessing of Documents) Regulation 2020 by using Audio Visual Links. What is an audio visual link? An Audio Visual Link is often referred to as AVL and is simply any technology that enables […]
Demerit points, Refusal of licence and suspension in NSW
Demerit Points are part of a licensing system used by Transport for NSW formally Roads and Maritime Service (RMS). Most offences in NSW have a monetary fine and demerit point penalty attached to them. How long does it take for demerit points to reset? These points “reset” or are not counted towards your total […]