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Facing an assault charge is one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. Whether the incident arose during an argument, in a public place, between family members, or in a moment where emotions escalated too quickly, the consequences can be serious and long-lasting. Allegations of violence can affect your reputation, employment, relationships and freedom, and often leave people feeling overwhelmed about what comes next.
At CM Lawyers, we understand the pressure you are under. We have extensive experience in criminal law matters and regularly assist clients charged with assault offences across Sydney. For many people, this is their first interaction with the criminal justice system — an unfamiliar process involving court dates, legal terminology and decisions that may shape their future. Our role is to bring clarity and control back to the situation by explaining the law in practical terms, assessing your options carefully and helping you respond strategically from the outset.
We have represented many clients charged with assault offences in the NSW Local Court, including common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and domestic-violence-related matters. We have assisted clients through early preparation, targeted negotiation and persuasive courtroom advocacy. Outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence and the court’s discretion.
Assault charges in NSW can arise in a wide range of circumstances. What begins as a misunderstanding, heated exchange or brief physical confrontation can quickly develop into a criminal allegation. Some matters involve partners or family members. Others occur between strangers in public settings. Alcohol, mutual confrontation, defensive conduct or differing witness accounts frequently play a role.
Police may rely on statements, CCTV footage, body-worn video, photographs or medical reports when laying charges. In many cases, the person accused believes the allegation does not reflect what truly occurred, or that their actions were defensive, reactive or taken out of context.
NSW assault laws are broad. Even minimal physical contact — or conduct involving threats or gestures without physical contact — can amount to an offence.
Common assault offences prosecuted in NSW include:
Penalties vary significantly depending on the level of harm alleged, the surrounding circumstances, whether domestic-violence elements apply, any criminal history and how the matter is resolved in court.
This is why obtaining early legal advice is critical. The more time there is to review evidence, assess defences, negotiate with police and prepare your case properly, the stronger your position will be.
Assault charges arising in Marrickville and surrounding Inner West suburbs are commonly dealt with at Newtown Local Court. Depending on the nature of the charge and the police command involved, matters may also be listed at the Downing Centre or Burwood Local Court.
As a Marrickville-based criminal law firm, we regularly represent clients before these courts and across Sydney more broadly.
Many assault matters involve potential defences. Self-defence commonly arises, particularly where a client was responding to aggression, protecting themselves or attempting to disengage from a confrontation. In other cases, witness accounts may conflict with CCTV footage or body-worn video, or the circumstances may suggest the contact was accidental or unintended.
We analyse the evidence carefully and identify legal and factual issues that may undermine the prosecution case. In some matters, this results in charges being downgraded or proceedings being discontinued. In others, it allows a more accurate version of events to be placed before the court.
Sometimes negotiation is the most effective approach. In other situations, preparing for a defended hearing is appropriate. The correct strategy always depends on the individual circumstances.
Not every matter proceeds to a contested hearing. Where a guilty plea is appropriate, we focus on presenting your case in the strongest possible light.
This includes assisting with character references, counselling or rehabilitation programs, apology letters and other supporting material.
Sentencing preparation is critical. Thoughtful submissions can significantly influence the outcome, including the possibility of a Conditional Release Order (with or without conviction), including outcomes formerly known as section 10 dismissals, where the law permits.
Court appearances can be intimidating, particularly for first-time defendants. We represent you throughout the process, advocate firmly on your behalf and ensure your circumstances are presented clearly and respectfully.
Our practitioners are experienced in Local Court procedure and familiar with the expectations of magistrates. Our objective is always to protect your interests and reduce the impact of the charge wherever possible.
Clients turn to CM Lawyers for our experience, professionalism and straightforward communication. We take the time to understand our clients’ situations and prepare matters thoroughly before court.
While no lawyer can guarantee outcomes, our experience has helped many clients achieve favourable results in assault matters across NSW. Every case is treated confidentially and with care.
If you are facing an assault allegation, act quickly. Avoid discussing the incident with police before obtaining legal advice. Do not contact the complainant or witnesses. Keep all documents you have received and seek legal guidance as soon as possible.
If you have been charged with assault, you do not need to face the process alone. Our team is here to provide clarity, protect your rights and guide you through every stage of the matter.
Disclamer: This website provides general information only. Nothing on this site should be taken to comprise legal advice or used as a substitute for detailed and competent legal advice. While the information contained in this website is believed to be accurate and current, it is provided by CMLawyers in good faith on an “as is” basis. CMLawyers, its directors, officers or employees make no representation or warranty as to the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the information contained on this website, and none of them accept any responsibility arising in any way (including negligence) for errors in, or omissions from, the information contained in this website.
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