Mr Samuel Oakley recently represented a client at Newcastle District Court for a severity appeal of an impaired driving matter.
When this matter first went to Court our client had represented themselves. Unfortunately they were convicted, received a significant fine and disqualification period for the offence.
This disqualification period would result in our client being unable to continue their business which they had spent considerable time building up.
At the Severity Appeal in the District Court, Mr Oakley presented compelling submissions highlighting our client’s previously unblemished record, strong need for a licence, good character, and other mitigating factors.
He advocated for a non-conviction outcome, despite initial resistance from the Court. Mr Oakley was able to persuade the Court that this was the most appropriate way for this isolated offence in our client’s life.
As a result, our client was found guilty, without conviction under Section 10(1)(a) of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act. This also meant that they avoided a licence disqualification and other penalties.
This outcome was possible through Mr Oakley’s strategic negotiation and strong advocacy.
