Our client was charged with reckless wounding in company, affray and common assault, with the matter initially listed for hearing. The charges were serious and carried the possibility of significant penalties, including imprisonment.

Following detailed preparation and negotiations with the prosecution, our office was able to secure the withdrawal of the reckless wounding in company and affray charges, leaving only the common assault matter to proceed to sentence.

The case was further complicated by the fact that our client was already subject to a good behaviour bond for a previous common assault offence. The presiding judicial officer had also previously indicated that a full-time custodial sentence was a likely outcome.

Despite this, through thorough preparation and carefully presented sentencing submissions, our office was able to secure a Conditional Release Order without conviction.

This was a highly favourable result given the seriousness of the original charges, the client’s existing bond and the Court’s earlier indication that imprisonment was likely. The outcome demonstrates the importance of early negotiations, detailed preparation and strong sentencing advocacy in serious criminal matters.