Why you need it
Sexual offences under the Penal Code 1871 include rape (s 375), sexual assault by penetration (s 376), outrage of modesty (s 354), voyeurism (s 377BB) and intimate image offences (ss 377BD–377BE). Several carry mandatory minimum sentences or caning when certain aggravating factors are present. Offences involving minors are treated more seriously still.
Many of these cases have no independent witness. The outcome often depends on the complainant’s account, the accused person’s statements, phone messages and medical evidence. Investigators frequently seize phones early. A first statement given in shock or embarrassment can be the hardest piece of evidence to deal with later.
Gag orders protecting the complainant’s identity are common, and press interest can be high. A conviction can also lead to employment, immigration and family consequences that last well beyond the sentence.
How we help
We have defended sexual offence cases in the State Courts, the High Court and the Court of Appeal, including a pro bono rape trial in the High Court that ran over four years, and an appeal before a five-judge Court of Appeal where we argued for reformative training for an intellectually disabled young offender instead of a long prison term.
We review the messages, call records and medical evidence ourselves. Where an accused person is young or vulnerable, we bring in psychiatric or psychological evidence where it is relevant to liability or sentence. We speak to clients plainly and in private, in English or Mandarin.
- Advice during police investigation, including on phone seizure and statements
- Bail and conditions
- Representations to the Attorney-General’s Chambers
- Trials, sentencing and appeals
- Young and vulnerable accused persons; reformative training and probation submissions
Related practice areas
Everything you tell us is confidential. Call or WhatsApp to arrange a private meeting. Contact us to arrange a confidential discussion.
The information on this page is general information only and is not legal advice. The law changes and develops over time, and nothing on this page creates a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your own situation, please contact us.