Parramatta Local Court Lawyer

Our client appeared at Parramatta Local Court after being charged with driving while disqualified for the tenth time. He had an extensive history of similar traffic offences and was also in breach of three active Community Correction Orders. These circumstances created a substantial risk of full-time imprisonment. We urgently prepared the matter for sentence and obtained evidence showing that he operated a small business, financially supported his wife and cared for his grandmother, who was living with dementia. We also presented evidence that he had remained abstinent from drugs for two years. The magistrate accepted that the sentence could be served in the community and imposed a six-month Intensive Correction Order instead of full-time custody.

Police alleged that our client had committed common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm against her partner. The complainant provided a recorded statement and photographs showing scratches on his arms. At the hearing, we carefully tested his account through cross-examination. He admitted that he had previously been subject to AVO proceedings and was concerned that he might be accused of assault himself. He also conceded that the marks could have resulted from his work. We highlighted inconsistencies between his recorded statement, emergency call and oral evidence. The court found that these discrepancies prevented the prosecution from proving either allegation beyond reasonable doubt. Our client was acquitted of both charges and retained a clear record.

Our client faced a mobile phone driving charge against the background of a lengthy traffic history. A conviction would have caused an immediate suspension, preventing him from working and supporting his dependants. The matter was originally prepared for a defended hearing, but the client later entered a guilty plea after receiving detailed advice. We then focused on obtaining the strongest possible sentencing outcome. Supporting material explained his role as the family’s sole income provider, his dependence on driving and the financial consequences of suspension. Despite the unfavourable traffic record and late plea, the magistrate accepted our submissions and dismissed the charge under section 10(1)(a). No conviction was recorded, and the client kept his licence.

Parramatta Local and District Court is located at 12 George Street, Parramatta NSW. The registry is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.

The Local Court and District Court operate within the same court complex but exercise different jurisdictions. Your Court Attendance Notice or other court documents should identify the court in which your matter is listed.

The Court will usually ask whether you have a lawyer and whether you intend to plead guilty or not guilty. It may also address bail, grant an adjournment, make directions about evidence or set another court date.