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Have you been a Victim Of Crime?

You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. A Victims of Crime fund exists to help those that cannot be readily compensated by the perpetrator of the crime against them. In terms of obtaining compensation, it is a last resort – in other words – it should be accessed when all other means of obtaining compensation have been exhausted.

To find out more about applying for Victims of Crime compensation, go to the Commissioner for Victims Rights website.

There are lawyers that can assist you with your application. Contact the Law Society of South Australia on 8229 0222 to find one.

Avoiding Trouble

  • If the police suspect you of having committed an offence, do not consent or agree for the police to do anything without speaking to your lawyer first.
  • The same applies to answering questions – you must though give your name and address and in some cases information about the identity of the driver/owner of a vehicle.
  • When the police say they just want to ask a couple of questions to eliminate you from their enquiries or to clear something up - that is often not what they really have in mind.
  • The Prosecutor decides whether to drop criminal charges, not the victim.
  • Be polite and respectful of the police.
  • If stopped by the police, stay calm and in control of your words, body language, and emotions.
  • Don’t resist a police officer, even if you think you are innocent.

National Police Certificate

A National Police Certificate or a 'police check’ provides a summary of a person’s criminal history. It is sometimes requested by organisations as one part of their process to ensure the integrity of their staff or volunteers.

You must apply to obtain the Certificate. Forms can be downloaded, or copies are available from your local police station. Fees and charges apply.

 

Editor

Our Criminal Law editor is Michael Dadds of Michael Dadds & Associates.

Tel: (08) 8231 0011

Further Details »

Fast Lawyer's Toolkit
 

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Need Advice From A Lawyer?

If you have been served with a summons or have been requested to attend a police station to answer questions, it is best you seek advice from a lawyer. It is important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible – don’t leave it to the last minute.

Appearing In Court

  • When required to attend Court, you should dress appropriately.
  • Men should wear a suit and tie if possible, and ladies, a smart suit or dress. Work uniforms should be avoided, if possible. Shorts, jeans, thongs, slacks and short dresses should be avoided at all costs.
  • Arrive at Court on time. Plan your arrival in advance, allowing extra time for public transport delays, or traffic problems. Aim to arrive at least ten (10) minutes early and inform the Court official in the foyer of the Court of your arrival, especially if you are representing yourself (i.e. you do not have a lawyer).
  • Loud talking or whispering whilst court is in session is unacceptable
  • Turn off your mobile phones and/or pager before entering Court premises
  • You must always show respect to the judicial officer at all times. Judicial officers are addressed as "Your Honour".
  • You should bow slightly upon entering, and leaving a Court when it is in session (see how the lawyers and staff do it).

Free Information

The Legal Services Commission free on-line handbook has a chapter on Criminal Law and Traffic Offences with general information for the public.

Traffic Offences

Jury Duty

Information on Jury Duty is available at the Courts Administration Authority website.

 
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