An Act relating to the prosecution of indictable offences, the listing of criminal proceedings before the Supreme Court and the District Court, committal proceedings and proceedings for summary offences and the giving of certain indemnities and undertakings; and for other purposes.
long title: Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [1].
Chapter 1 Preliminary
ch 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [2].
1 Name of Act
This Act may be cited as the Criminal Procedure Act 1986.
2 Commencement
(1) Sections 1 and 2 shall commence on the date of assent to this Act.(2) Except as provided by subsection (1), this Act shall commence on such day as may be appointed by the Governor and notified by proclamation published in the Gazette.
3 Definitions
(1) In this Act, except in so far as the context or subject-matter otherwise indicates or requires:accused person includes, in relation to summary offences, a defendant and, in relation to all offences (where the subject-matter or context allows or requires), a barrister or solicitor representing an accused person.apprehended violence order has the same meaning as it has in Part 15A of the Crimes Act 1900, and includes an interim apprehended violence order made under that Part.means:(a) a registrar of a court, or(b) an employee of the Attorney General’s Department authorised by the Attorney General as an authorised officer for the purposes of this Act.bail has the same meaning as it has in the Bail Act 1978.Chief Magistrate means the Chief Magistrate of the Local Courts appointed under the Local Courts Act 1982.committal proceedings means a hearing before a Magistrate for the purpose of deciding whether a person charged with an indictable offence should be committed for trial or sentence.court means:(a) the Supreme Court, the Court of Criminal Appeal, the Land and Environment Court, the Industrial Relations Commission, the District Court or a Local Court, orbut, subject to the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987, does not include the Children’s Court or any other court that, or person who, exercises the functions of the Children’s Court.(b) any other court that, or person who, exercises criminal jurisdiction,Court of Coal Mines Regulation means the Court of Coal Mines Regulation established under the Coal Mines Regulation Act 1982.exercise a function includes perform a duty.function includes a power, authority or duty.indictable offence means an offence (including a common law offence) that may be prosecuted on indictment.Industrial Magistrate means an Industrial Magistrate appointed under the Industrial Relations Act 1996.Industrial Relations Commission in Court Session means the Industrial Relations Commission constituted as referred to in section 151 of the Industrial Relations Act 1996.intervention plan—see section 346.intervention program—see section 346.Licensing Court means a Licensing Court established under the Liquor Act 1982.Licensing Magistrate means a licensing magistrate appointed under the Liquor Act 1982.Local Court means a Local Court established under the Local Courts Act 1982.Magistrate means a Magistrate appointed under the Local Courts Act 1982.offence means an offence against the laws of the State.prescribed sexual offence means:(a) an offence under section 61B, 61C, 61D, 61E, 61I, 61J, 61JA, 61K, 61L, 61M, 61N, 61O, 63, 65, 65A, 66, 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D, 66EA, 66F, 67, 68, 71, 72, 72A, 73, 74, 76, 76A, 78A, 78B, 78H, 78I, 78K, 78L, 78M, 78N, 78O, 78Q, 79, 80, 80A, 80D, 80E, 81, 81A, 81B, 86, 87, 89, 90, 90A, 91, 91A, 91B, 91D, 91E, 91F or 91G of the Crimes Act 1900, or(b) an offence that, at the time it was committed, was a prescribed sexual offence for the purposes of this Act or the Crimes Act 1900, or(c) an offence that includes the commission of, or an intention to commit, an offence referred to in paragraph (a) or (b), or(d) an offence of attempting, or of conspiracy or incitement, to commit an offence referred to in paragraph (a), (b) or (c).prescribed summary offence has the same meaning as in the Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1986.prosecutor means the Director of Public Prosecutions or other person who institutes or is responsible for the conduct of a prosecution and includes (where the subject-matter or context allows or requires) a barrister or solicitor representing the prosecutor.public officer means any of the following persons, if acting in an official capacity:(a) an employee in the Public Service or the Police Service,(b) an officer or employee of a statutory body representing the Crown,(c) an employee of a council within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1993,(d) an officer or employee of a rural lands protection board within the meaning of the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998,(e) the Director of Public Prosecutions, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions or Solicitor for Public Prosecutions,(f) an officer or employee of a body declared by the regulations to be a public body for the purposes of this definition.regulations means regulations under this Act.Rule Committee for a court means a person or body having power to make rules for the court.rules means rules made for the purposes of a court to which the relevant provision applies.summary offence means an offence that is not an indictable offence.Warden’s Court means a Warden’s Court constituted under the Mining Act 1992.(2) Notes included in this Act are explanatory notes and do not form part of this Act.s 3: Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [3]–[6]; 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3]; 2003 No 9, Sch 2.1 [1]; 2003 No 27, Sch 8 [1]; 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [1].
4 Regulations and rules
(1) The Governor may make regulations, not inconsistent with this Act, for or with respect to any matter that by this Act is required or permitted to be prescribed or that is necessary or convenient to be prescribed for carrying out or giving effect to this Act.(2) The Rule Committee for a court may make rules, not inconsistent with this or any other Act, for or with respect to the following matters:(a) any matter that is required or permitted to be prescribed by rules, or that is necessary or convenient to be prescribed by rules, in relation to the practice or procedure to be followed to give effect to this Act,(b) any matter incidental to, or relating to, any such practice or procedure.(3) The rules are to be made in accordance with the Act under which the court is constituted.s 4 (previously s 5): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [8]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [9].
4A Fees
(1) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the following matters:(a) the fees payable to a court in relation to the conduct of criminal proceedings in the court, including fees for the following:(i) the filing or registration of any document in the court,(ii) the sealing or other authentication of any document that has been filed in the court,(iii) the issue of any document out of the court,(b) the fees payable in relation to the functions exercised by the Sheriff in relation to criminal proceedings,(c) the fees payable for administrative services provided by a registrar or other officer of the court, whether in connection with the administration of this Act or otherwise,(d) the waiver, postponement and remittal of fees.(2) Fees of the kind referred to in subsection (1) (a) or (b) are not payable by the Crown, or by any person acting on behalf of the Crown, with respect to any criminal proceedings prosecuted by:(a) the Crown,(b) any Minister of the Crown,(c) any person or body prescribed by the regulations or belonging to a class of persons or bodies so prescribed.(3) Subsection (2) does not prevent the recovery by the Crown or any such person or body of any fees that would, had they been paid by the Crown or any such person or body, have been so recoverable.(4) Unpaid fees may be recovered by the person to whom they are payable, as a debt, in any court of competent jurisdiction.(5) In this section, criminal proceedings means proceedings for an offence (whether summary or indictable), and includes the following:(a) committal proceedings,(b) proceedings relating to bail,(c) proceedings relating to sentence,(d) proceedings on an appeal against conviction or sentence.s 4A: Ins 2005 No 28, Sch 5.11 [1].
Chapter 2 General provisions
ch 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [11].
Part 1 Offences
ch 2, pt 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [11].
5 Certain offences to be dealt with on indictment
(1) An offence must be dealt with on indictment unless it is an offence that under this or any other Act is permitted or required to be dealt with summarily.(2) An offence may be dealt with on indictment if it is an offence that under this or any other Act is permitted to be dealt with summarily or on indictment.s 5: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [12].
6 Certain offences to be dealt with summarily
(1) The following offences must be dealt with summarily:(a) an offence that under this or any other Act is required to be dealt with summarily,(b) an offence that under this or any other Act is described as a summary offence,(c) an offence (not being an offence that under this or any other Act is required to be dealt with on indictment) for which the maximum penalty that may be imposed is not, and does not include, imprisonment for more than 2 years.(2) An offence may be dealt with summarily if it is an offence that under this or any other Act is permitted to be dealt with summarily or on indictment.ss 6 (previously ss 7, 8): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [12].
7 Certain summary offences may be dealt with by Local Courts
(1) An offence that is permitted or required to be dealt with summarily is to be dealt with by a Local Court.(2) This section does not apply to an offence that, under this or any other Act, is required to be dealt with summarily otherwise than by a Local Court.s 7 (previously s 9): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [12]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [13].
8 Prosecution of indictable offences
(1) All offences shall be punishable by information (to be called an indictment) in the Supreme Court or the District Court, on behalf of the Crown, in the name of the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions.(2) Such an indictment may be presented or filed whether or not the person to whom the indictment relates has been committed for trial in respect of an offence specified in the indictment.(3) This section does not apply to offences that is required to be dealt with summarily.(4) This section does not affect any law or practice that provides for an indictable offence to be dealt with summarily.s 8 (previously s 10): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [12].
9 Name in which prosecutions may be instituted
Any prosecution or proceedings instituted by the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions in respect of any offence (whether an indictable offence or a summary offence) may be instituted in either the official name or the personal name of the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions.s 9 (previously s 51): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [14].
10 Indictment of bodies corporate
(1) Unless a contrary intention appears, a provision of an Act relating to an offence applies to bodies corporate as well as to individuals.(2) On arraignment, a body corporate may enter a plea of “guilty” or “not guilty” by means of writing signed by its representative.(3) If no such plea is entered the court is to enter a plea of “not guilty”, and the trial is to proceed as though the body corporate had pleaded “not guilty”.(4) A representative of a body corporate need not be appointed under the body’s seal.(5) A written statement that:(a) purports to be signed by one of the persons having the management of the affairs of the body corporate, andis admissible as evidence that the named person has been so appointed.(b) contains a statement to the effect that a named person is the body’s representative,s 10 (previously s 59): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [15].
11 Description of offences
The description of any offence in the words of an Act or statutory rule or other document creating the offence, or in similar words, is sufficient in law.s 11: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [17].
12 Short description of certain offences
(1) For the purposes of this or any other Act, a summary offence, or an indictable offence that may be dealt with summarily, is taken to be sufficiently stated or described if it is stated or described by the use of a short expression that describes the offence in general terms.(2) This section applies to a statement or description of an offence in any court attendance notice, warrant, subpoena, notice, order or other document.(3) Nothing in this section affects any other method of stating or describing an offence.(4) Nothing in this section affects any requirement made by or under this Act in relation to the form of a court attendance notice or any other document.s 12: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [17].
13 Venue in indictment
(1) New South Wales is a sufficient venue for all places, whether the indictment is in the Supreme Court or any other court having criminal jurisdiction.(2) However, some district or place within, at or near which the offence is charged to have been committed must be mentioned in the body of the indictment.(3) Any such district or place is to be taken to be in New South Wales, and within the jurisdiction of the court, unless the contrary is shown.s 13 (previously s 60): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [19].
A prosecution or proceeding in respect of any offence under an Act may be instituted by any person unless the right to institute the prosecution or proceeding is expressly conferred by that Act on a specified person or class of persons.s 14 (previously s 55): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [20].
Part 2 Indictments and other matters
ch 2, pt 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [21].
15 Application of Part
(1) This Part applies, to the extent that it is capable of being applied, to all offences, however arising (whether under an Act or at common law), whenever committed and in whatever court dealt with.(2) In this Part:indictment includes a court attendance notice or any other process or document by which criminal proceedings are commenced.s 15 (previously s 57): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [22]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [23]; 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [1].
16 Certain defects do not affect indictment
(1) An indictment is not bad, insufficient, void, erroneous or defective on any of the following grounds:(a) for the improper insertion or omission of the words “as appears by the record”, “with force and arms”, “against the peace”, “against the form of the statute” or “feloniously”,(b) for want of an averment of any matter unnecessary to be proved or necessarily implied,(c) for want of a proper or perfect venue or a proper or formal conclusion,(d) for want of any additional accused person or for any imperfection relating to any additional accused person,(e) for want of any statement of the value or price of any matter or thing, or the amount of damage or injury, if such value, price or amount is not of the essence of the offence,(f) for designating any person by the name of his or her office, or other descriptive appellation, instead of by his or her proper name,(g) except where time is an essential ingredient, for omitting to state the time at which an offence was committed, for stating the time wrongly or for stating the time imperfectly,(h) for stating an offence to have been committed on a day subsequent to the finding of the indictment, on an impossible day or on a day that never happened,(i) if the indictment was signed by a legal practitioner who has been instructed to prosecute the proceedings to which the indictment relates on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions—for failure by the Director to authorise the legal practitioner by order in writing under section 126 (2) to sign indictments for and on behalf of the Director.(2) No objection may be taken, or allowed, to any indictment by which criminal proceedings (including committal proceedings) in a Local Court or for any other offence that is to be dealt with summarily are commenced, or to any warrant issued for the purposes of any such proceedings, on the grounds of:(a) any alleged defect in it in substance or in form, or(b) any variance between it and the evidence adduced at the proceedings for the offence charged in the indictment or warrant.Note—An adjournment may be obtained under section 40 where there is a variance between the evidence adduced and the offence charged in the application or order.s 16 (previously s 58): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [24]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [25]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [1]; 2005 No 75, Sch 1 [1].
17 When formal objections to be taken
(1) An objection to an indictment for a formal defect apparent on its face must be taken, by demurrer or motion to quash the indictment, before the jury is sworn.(2) The court before which the objection is taken may cause the indictment to be amended and, in that case, the trial is to proceed as if there had been no defect.ss 17–19 (previously ss 61–63): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
18 Judgment on demurrer to indictment
The judgment against the accused person on demurrer is to be that the person “answer over” to the charge.ss 17–19 (previously ss 61–63): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
19 Traversing indictment
(1) No traverse is to be allowed, or trial postponed, or time to plead to the indictment given, unless the court so orders.(2) However, if the court is of the opinion that the accused person ought to be allowed time, either to prepare for his or her defence or for any other reason, the court is to postpone the trial on such terms as it considers fit.ss 17–19 (previously ss 61–63): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
20 Amendment of indictment
(1) An indictment may not be amended after it is presented, except by the prosecutor:(a) with the leave of the court, or(b) with the consent of the accused.(2) This section does not affect the powers of the court under section 21.(3) For the purposes of this section, an amendment of an indictment includes the substitution of an indictment.s 20 (previously s 63A): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [2]; 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [2].
21 Orders for amendment of indictment, separate trial and postponement of trial
(1) If of the opinion that an indictment is defective but, having regard to the merits of the case, can be amended without injustice, the court may make such order for the amendment of the indictment as it thinks necessary to meet the circumstances of the case.(2) If of the opinion:(a) that an accused person may be prejudiced or embarrassed in his or her defence by reason of being charged with more than one offence in the same indictment, orthe court may order a separate trial of any count or counts of the indictment.(b) that for any other reason it is desirable to direct that an accused person be tried separately for any one or more offences charged in an indictment,(3) If of the opinion that the postponement of an accused person’s trial is expedient as a consequence of it having amended an indictment or ordered a separate trial of a count, the court may make such order as appears necessary.(4) An order under this section may be made either before trial or at any stage during the trial.(5) The following provisions apply if an order is made under this section for a separate trial or for the postponement of a trial:(a) if the order is made during the trial, the court may order that the jury be discharged from giving a verdict:(i) on the count or counts in respect of which the trial is postponed, oras the case may be,(ii) on the indictment,(b) the procedure on the separate trial of a count, and the procedure on the postponed trial, are to be the same in all respects (if the jury has been discharged) as if the trial had not commenced,(c) subject to the Bail Act 1978, the court may commit the accused person to a correctional centre.(6) Any power of the court under this section is in addition to and not in derogation of any other power of the court for the same or similar purposes.ss 21–26 (previously ss 64–69): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
22 Amended indictment
(1) If any indictment is amended, a note of the order for amendment is to be endorsed on the indictment, and the indictment in its amended form is to be treated as the indictment for the purposes of the trial and all proceedings in connection with or consequent on the trial.(2) Any verdict or judgment given after the amendment of an indictment is to have the same force and effect as if the indictment had originally been in its amended form.(3) If it is necessary at any time to draw up a formal record of an indictment, the record may be drawn up in the words and form of the amended indictment, without notice of the fact of the amendment.ss 21–26 (previously ss 64–69): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
23 Indictment may contain up to 3 similar counts
(1) Up to 3 counts may be inserted in the same indictment, against the same person, for distinct offences of the same kind committed against the same person.(2) This section does not apply if more than 6 months have elapsed between the first and last of the offences.(3) Nothing in this section affects the right of the Crown to insert alternative counts in any indictment.ss 21–26 (previously ss 64–69): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
24 Accessories may be charged together in one indictment
Any number of accessories (whether before or after the fact) may be charged with substantive serious indictable offences in the same indictment, and may be tried together, even though the principal offender is not included in the indictment, not in custody or not amenable to justice.ss 21–26 (previously ss 64–69): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
25 Indictment charging previous offence also
In an indictment against a person for an offence committed after the person was convicted of some previous offence (whether indictable or otherwise) it is sufficient, after charging the subsequent offence, to state that the accused person was (at a specified time and place) convicted of the previous offence, without particularly describing the previous offence.ss 21–26 (previously ss 64–69): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
26 Description of written instruments
If:(a) an indictment relates to an instrument that is written or printed, or partly written and partly printed, orit is sufficient to describe the instrument by any name or designation by which it is usually known, or by its purport, without setting out a copy of the instrument, or otherwise describing the instrument, and without stating the value of the instrument.(b) it is necessary to make an averment in an indictment with respect to an instrument that is written or printed, or partly written and partly printed,ss 21–26 (previously ss 64–69): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [26].
27 Supreme Court rules may prescribe forms of indictments
(1) Without limiting the rule-making powers conferred by the Supreme Court Act 1970, rules may from time to time be made under that Act prescribing forms of indictments, records, informations, depositions, convictions, warrants and processes in all courts for any offence.(2) Any form prescribed by those rules is taken to be sufficient for the purpose, and to sufficiently state the offence, for which it is prescribed.s 27 (previously s 85): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [27].
Part 3 Criminal proceedings generally
ch 2, pt 3, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [28].
28 Application of Part and definition
(1) This Part applies, to the extent that it is capable of being applied, to all offences, however arising (whether under an Act or at common law), whenever committed and in whatever court dealt with.(2) In this Part:Judge includes a Magistrate, a Children’s Court Magistrate, a Licensing Magistrate, a warden of a Warden’s Court, an Industrial Magistrate, the President or a judicial member of the Industrial Relations Commission and any other person of a class prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this definition.s 28: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [29].
29 When more than one offence may be heard at the same time
(1) A court may hear and determine together proceedings related to 2 or more offences alleged to have been committed by the same accused person in any of the following circumstances:(a) the accused person and the prosecutor consent,(b) the offences arise out of the same set of circumstances,(c) the offences form or are part of a series of offences of the same or a similar character.(2) A court may hear and determine together proceedings related to offences alleged to have been committed by 2 or more accused persons in any of the following circumstances:(a) the accused persons and the prosecutor consent,(b) the offences arise out of the same set of circumstances,(c) the offences form or are part of a series of offences of the same or a similar character.(3) Proceedings related to 2 or more offences or 2 or more accused persons may not be heard together if the court is of the opinion that the matters ought to be heard and determined separately in the interests of justice.s 29: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [29].
30 Change of venue
In any criminal proceedings, if it appears to the court:(a) that a fair or unprejudiced trial cannot otherwise be had, orthe court may change the venue, and direct the trial to be held in such other district, or at such other place, as the court thinks fit, and may for that purpose make all such orders as justice appears to require.(b) that for any other reason it is expedient to do so,s 30 (previously s 13): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [30]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [31] [32].
31 Abolition of accused person’s right to make unsworn statement or to give unsworn evidence
Any rule of law, procedure or practice that permits a person who is charged with the commission of a criminal offence to make an unsworn statement or to give unsworn evidence in answer to the charge is abolished.s 31 (previously s 95): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [33].
32 Indemnities
(1) The Attorney General may, if of the opinion that it is appropriate to do so, grant a person an indemnity from prosecution (whether on indictment or summarily):(a) for a specified offence, or(b) in respect of specified acts or omissions.(2) If the Attorney General grants such an indemnity, no proceedings may thereafter be instituted or continued against the person in respect of the offence or the acts or omissions.(3) Such an indemnity may be granted conditionally or unconditionally.(4) Such an indemnity may not be granted in respect of a summary offence that is not a prescribed summary offence, unless the Attorney General has consulted the Minister administering the enactment or instrument under which the offence is created.s 32: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [34].
33 Undertakings
(1) The Attorney General may, if of the opinion that it is appropriate to do so, give to a person an undertaking that:(a) an answer that is given, or a statement or disclosure that is made, by the person in the course of giving evidence in specified proceedings, orbeing proceedings for an offence against a law of the State (whether an indictable offence or a summary offence), will not be used in evidence against the person.(b) the fact that the person discloses or produces a document or other thing in specified proceedings,(2) If the Attorney General gives such an undertaking:(a) an answer that is given, or a statement or disclosure that is made, by the person in the course of giving evidence in the specified proceedings, oris not admissible in evidence against the person in any civil or criminal proceedings, other than proceedings in respect of the falsity of evidence given by the person.(b) the fact that the person discloses or produces a document or other thing in the specified proceedings,(3) Such an undertaking may be given conditionally or unconditionally.(4) Such an undertaking may not be given in respect of a summary offence that is not a prescribed summary offence, unless the Attorney General has consulted the Minister administering the enactment or instrument under which the offence is created.ss 33 (previously ss 46, 47): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [34].
34 Practice as to entering the dock
The Judge may order the accused person to enter the dock or other place of arraignment or may allow him or her to remain on the floor of the court, and in either case to sit down, as the Judge considers appropriate.s 34: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [35].
35 Right to inspect depositions on trial
An accused person is entitled on his or her trial to inspect, without fee, all depositions taken against the person and returned to, or held by, the court before which he or she is on trial.ss 35 (previously ss 93, 94): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [35].
36 Representation and appearance
(1) A prosecutor or accused person may appear personally or by a barrister or solicitor or other person empowered by an Act or other law to appear for the prosecutor or accused person.(2) A prosecutor who is a police officer may appear personally or by a person permitted by subsection (1) or by a police prosecutor.ss 36–41: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [37].
37 Conduct of case
(1) The prosecutor’s case may be conducted by the prosecutor or by the prosecutor’s barrister or solicitor or any other person permitted to appear for the prosecutor (whether under this or any other Act).(2) The accused person’s case may be conducted by the accused person or by the accused person’s barrister or solicitor or any other person permitted to appear for the accused person (whether under this or any other Act).ss 36–41: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [37].
38 Hearing procedures to be as for Supreme Court
In any proceedings for an offence (other than in the Supreme Court for an indictable offence), the procedures and practice for the examination and cross-examination of witnesses, and the right to address the court on the case in reply or otherwise, are, as far as practicable, to be conducted in accordance with Supreme Court procedure for the trial of an indictable offence.ss 36–41: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [37].
39 Recording of evidence
(1) The evidence of each witness in criminal proceedings must be recorded.(2) Rules may be made for or with respect to the manner in which the evidence may be recorded and the authentication of evidence or of transcripts of evidence given in proceedings.ss 36–41: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [37].
40 Adjournments generally
(1) A court may at any stage of criminal proceedings adjourn the proceedings generally, or to a specified day, if it appears to the court necessary or advisable to do so.(2) An adjournment may be in such terms as the court thinks fit.(3) A matter that is adjourned generally must be listed before the court or a registrar not later than 2 years after the adjournment.(4) Without limiting subsection (1), a court may, at the request of an accused person, adjourn criminal proceedings if it appears to the court that a variance between any process or document by which the proceedings were commenced and the evidence adduced in respect of the offence charged in that process or document is such that the accused person has been misled by the variance.ss 36–41: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [37].
41 How accused person to be dealt with during adjournment
(1) A court may, if bail is not dispensed with or granted to an accused person for the period of an adjournment, remand the accused person to a correctional centre or other place of security during the adjournment.(2) The warrant of commitment may be signed by any Judge or authorised officer.(3) A Judge may at any time, by written notice to the parties, shorten or end an adjournment if the accused person is not in custody.ss 36–41: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [37].
42 Witnesses in mitigation
(1) After convicting an accused person of an offence, and before passing sentence, the court may summon witnesses and examine them on oath in respect of any matter in mitigation of the offence.(2) The court may do so on application made by or on behalf of the Crown or by or on behalf of the accused person.s 42 (previously s 100): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [38].
43 Restitution of property
(1) In any criminal proceedings in which it is alleged that the accused person has unlawfully acquired or disposed of property, the court may order that the property be restored to such person as appears to the court to be lawfully entitled to its possession.(2) Such an order may be made whether or not the court finds the person guilty of any offence with respect to the acquisition or disposal of the property.(3) Such an order may not be made in respect of:(a) any valuable security given by the accused person in payment of a liability to which the person was subject when the payment was made, or(b) any negotiable instrument accepted by the accused person as valuable consideration in circumstances in which the person had no notice, or cause to suspect, that the instrument had been dishonestly come by.s 43: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [39].
44 When case not to be proceeded with: accused person to be released from custody
(1) On deciding that no further proceedings are to be taken with respect to a person who is in custody on remand, whether or not the person has been committed for trial, the Attorney General or Director of Public Prosecutions may cause a certificate to that effect, in the form prescribed by the regulations, to be delivered to the Supreme Court.(2) On receipt of such a certificate, the Supreme Court may, by order, direct that the person to whom the certificate relates be released from custody.ss 44 (previously ss 126, 127): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [39].
Chapter 3 Indictable procedure
ch 3, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [40].
Part 1 Preliminary
ch 3, pt 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [40].
45 Application of Chapter and definitions
(1) This Chapter applies to or in respect of proceedings for indictable offences (other than indictable offences being dealt with summarily).(2) In this Chapter:Judge includes a Magistrate.Magistrate includes a Children’s Court Magistrate, a warden of a Warden’s Court and any other person of a class prescribed for the purposes of this definition.registrar means, for the purposes of Part 2:(a) in the case of committal proceedings before a Local Court Magistrate, a registrar of a Local Court, or(b) in the case of committal proceedings before a Children’s Court Magistrate, the Children’s Registrar appointed under the Children’s Court Act 1987.s 45: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [41].
46 Jurisdiction of courts
(1) The Supreme Court has jurisdiction in respect of all indictable offences.(2) The District Court has jurisdiction in respect of all indictable offences, other than such offences as may be prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section.s 46 (previously s 11): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [42].
Part 2 Committal proceedings
ch 3, pt 2: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Division 1 Commencement of proceedings
ch 3, pt 2, div 1: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
47 Commencement of committal proceedings by court attendance notice
(1) Committal proceedings for an offence are to be commenced by the issue and filing of a court attendance notice in accordance with this Division.(2) A court attendance notice may be issued in respect of a person if the person has committed or is suspected of having committed an offence.(3) A court attendance notice may be issued in respect of any offence for which proceedings may be taken in this State, including an offence committed elsewhere than in this State.(4) Nothing in this Part affects any law or practice relating to indictments presented or filed in the Supreme Court or the District Court by the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions.(5) If an Act or a statutory rule provides for committal proceedings to be commenced otherwise than by issuing and filing a court attendance notice, the proceedings may be commenced in accordance with this Act.ss 47–49: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
48 Commencement of proceedings by police officer or public officer
If a police officer or public officer is authorised to commence committal proceedings, the officer may commence committal proceedings for an offence against a person by issuing a court attendance notice and filing the notice in accordance with this Division.ss 47–49: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
49 Commencement of private prosecutions
(1) If a person other than a police officer or public officer is authorised to commence committal proceedings against a person for an offence, the person may commence the proceedings by issuing a court attendance notice, signed by a registrar, and filing the notice in accordance with this Division.(2) A registrar must not sign a court attendance notice if:(a) the registrar is of the opinion that the notice does not disclose grounds for the proceedings, or(b) the registrar is of the opinion that the notice is not in the form required by or under this Act, or(c) the registrar is of the opinion that a ground for refusal set out in the rules applies to the notice.(3) If a registrar refuses to sign a court attendance notice proposed to be issued by any such person, the question of whether the court attendance notice is to be signed and issued is to be determined by a Magistrate on application by the person.ss 47–49: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
50 Form of court attendance notice
(1) A court attendance notice must be in writing and be in the form prescribed by the rules.(2) The rules may prescribe one or more forms of court attendance notice.(3) A court attendance notice must do the following:(a) describe the offence,(b) briefly state the particulars of the alleged offence,(c) contain the name of the prosecutor,(d) require the accused person to appear before the Magistrate at a specified date, time and place, unless a warrant is issued for the arrest of the person or the person is refused bail,(e) state, unless a warrant is issued for the arrest of the person or the person is refused bail, that failure to appear may result in the arrest of the person or in the matter being dealt with in the absence of the person.(4) The rules may prescribe additional matters to be included in court attendance notices.(5) A court attendance notice may describe an offence, act or other thing in any way that is sufficient under this Act for the purposes of an indictment or an averment in an indictment.s 50: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [1].
51 (Repealed)
s 51: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Rep 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [2].
52 Service of court attendance notices
(1) A court attendance notice issued by a police officer must be served by a police officer in accordance with the rules.(2) A court attendance notice issued by a public officer must be served by a police officer, public officer or other person prescribed by the rules, in accordance with the rules.(3) A court attendance notice issued by a person other than a police officer or public officer must be served by a person prescribed by the rules in accordance with the rules.(4) A copy of a court attendance notice must, except with leave of a Magistrate or a registrar of the court, be filed in the registry of the relevant court not later than 7 days after it is served and must contain an endorsement as to service.(5) Leave may be granted under subsection (4) after the expiry of the 7-day period referred to in that subsection.s 52: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Am 2004 No 68, Sch 6 [1] [2].
53 When proceedings commence
(1) All proceedings are taken to have commenced on the date on which a court attendance notice is filed in the registry of a relevant court in accordance with this Division.(2) A court attendance notice may be filed even though it has not been served if:(a) a warrant is sought under this Part for the arrest of the accused person, or(b) the notice is not able to be served, despite reasonable attempts to do so, or(c) the registrar gives leave to do so after forming the opinion that it is not reasonable in the circumstances of the case to require prior service of the notice.(3) Nothing in this section affects any other Act or law under which proceedings are taken to have commenced on another date.s 53: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
54 Attendance of accused person at proceedings
(1) A person who issues a court attendance notice may, at any time after the notice is issued and before the date on which the accused person is required to first attend before a Magistrate for the hearing of committal proceedings, apply for a warrant to arrest the accused person.(2) An authorised officer may, when a court attendance notice is issued by the registrar, or filed in the court, or at any time after then and before the matter is first before a Magistrate, issue a warrant to arrest the accused person if the authorised officer is satisfied there are substantial reasons to do so and that it is in the interests of justice to do so.(3) The rules may make provision for or with respect to matters that may be taken into account by an authorised officer in determining whether to issue a warrant under this section.(3A) If an accused person is not present at the day, time and place set down for the hearing of committal proceedings (including any day to which proceedings are adjourned), or absconds from the committal proceedings, the Magistrate may issue a warrant to arrest the accused person if the Magistrate is satisfied there are substantial reasons to do so and that it is in the interests of justice to do so.(4) A Magistrate or authorised officer before whom an accused person is brought on arrest on a warrant issued under this section may, if bail is not dispensed with or granted, issue a warrant:(a) committing the accused person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) ordering the accused person to be brought before a Magistrate at the date, time and place specified in the order.(5) The Magistrate or authorised officer must give notice of the date, time and place to the prosecutor.s 54: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Am 2002 No 130, Sch 6 [1].
Division 2 Committal proceedings generally
ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
55 Magistrate to conduct proceedings
Committal proceedings are to be conducted and determined by a Magistrate.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
56 Committal proceedings to be heard in open court
(1) Committal proceedings are to be heard as if in open court.(2) This section is subject to any other Act or law.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
57 Part does not affect nature of committal proceedings
Nothing in this Part alters the nature of a committal proceeding from that existing immediately before the commencement of this section.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
58 Place of hearing
(1) A Magistrate may transfer committal proceedings to another Magistrate in another place, if satisfied that:(a) the principal witnesses to prove the offence live in another place where the offence is alleged to have been committed, or(b) for any other reason, it is in the interests of justice to do so.(2) The Magistrate may, subject to the Bail Act 1978, make orders necessary to enable the accused person to be brought before the other Magistrate and to be dealt with according to law.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
59 Application of other procedural provisions to committal proceedings
The following provisions of this Act apply, subject to any necessary modifications, to committal proceedings conducted by a Magistrate in the same way as they apply to proceedings for offences before a Local Court:(a) sections 30, 31, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 and 44,(b) Part 3 (Attendance of witnesses and production of evidence in lower courts) of Chapter 4,(c) Part 4 (Warrants) of Chapter 4.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
60 Time for taking prosecution evidence
(1) On the first return date for a court attendance notice in any committal proceedings, or at such later time or times as the Magistrate determines, the Magistrate must set:(a) the date, time and place for taking the prosecution evidence and the time within which written statements, and copies of any proposed exhibits identified in the statements (or a notice relating to inspection of them), must be served on the accused person, and(b) the time within which the accused person must serve on the prosecutor any notice requesting the attendance of a person who made a written statement.Note—Prosecution evidence is to be given by written statements (see Division 3).(2) The registrar must notify the accused person of the date, time and place, and any other time set by the Magistrate, if the accused person is not present.(3) A registrar may exercise the Magistrate’s functions under this section.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
61 Discharge of accused person if prosecutor not present for taking of evidence
(1) If the prosecutor fails to appear on the day and at the time and place set for taking prosecution evidence in any committal proceedings, the Magistrate must:(a) discharge the accused person as to the offence the subject of the proceedings, or(b) if the Magistrate thinks it appropriate, adjourn the hearing to a specified time and place.(2) The adjournment must not exceed 8 days or such longer period as the accused person may consent to.(3) Subsection (2) does not apply if the accused person is refused bail (as referred to in section 25 of the Bail Act 1978).Note—Section 25 of the Bail Act 1978 specifies the maximum period for adjournments if bail has been refused.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
62 Prosecution evidence and initial determination
(1) The Magistrate must take the prosecution evidence in accordance with Division 3 and must determine whether the prosecution evidence is capable of satisfying a jury, properly instructed, beyond reasonable doubt that the accused person has committed an indictable offence.(2) The Magistrate must discharge the accused person in relation to the offence if, in any committal proceedings, after all the prosecution evidence is taken and after considering all the evidence before the Magistrate, the Magistrate is not of the opinion that, having regard to all the evidence before the Magistrate, the evidence is capable of satisfying a reasonable jury, properly instructed, beyond reasonable doubt that the accused person has committed an indictable offence.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
63 Where prosecution evidence sufficient to satisfy jury
(1) If in any committal proceedings, after all the prosecution evidence is taken and after considering all the evidence before the Magistrate, the Magistrate is of the opinion that, having regard to all the evidence before the Magistrate, the evidence is capable of satisfying a reasonable jury, properly instructed, beyond reasonable doubt that the accused person has committed an indictable offence, the Magistrate must give the accused person an opportunity to answer the charge and a warning in the form prescribed by the rules.(2) The Magistrate must proceed to take any statement by or any evidence adduced by the accused person in accordance with Division 4.(3) If the accused person is not present, the Magistrate may make a decision under section 64 without complying with subsection (2).(4) If the accused person is a corporation and the corporation appears by a representative, the representative may answer the charge on behalf of the corporation.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
64 Decision about committal
When all the prosecution evidence and any defence evidence have been taken in committal proceedings, the Magistrate must consider all the evidence and determine whether or not in his or her opinion, having regard to all the evidence before the Magistrate, there is a reasonable prospect that a reasonable jury, properly instructed, would convict the accused person of an indictable offence.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
65 Committal
(1) If the Magistrate is of the opinion that there is a reasonable prospect that a reasonable jury, properly instructed, would convict the accused person of an indictable offence, the Magistrate must commit the accused person for trial.(2) In the case of an accused person that is a corporation, the Magistrate may, if of that opinion, make an order authorising an indictment to be filed for the offence named in the order or for such other offence as the Attorney General or Director of Public Prosecutions considers proper.(3) The making of an order under subsection (2) is taken to be committal for trial.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
66 Discharge
If the Magistrate is not of the opinion that there is a reasonable prospect that a reasonable jury, properly instructed, would convict the accused person of an indictable offence, the Magistrate must immediately order the accused person to be discharged in relation to the offence.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
67 Committal may be set aside by Magistrate
(1) An accused person who was not present and, if not present, was not represented when committed for trial may apply to a Magistrate to have an order for the accused person’s committal for trial set aside.(2) The application must be made before the presentation or filing of an indictment against the accused person.(3) The Magistrate may set aside the order for committal for trial and any associated warrant to commit the accused person if the Magistrate is satisfied that good and proper reason is shown for the absence of the accused person or a representative of the accused person and that it is in the interests of justice to do so.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
68 Accused person may waive committal hearing
Despite any other provision of this Part, the Magistrate may, at any time, on the application of the accused person, and with the consent of the prosecutor, commit the accused person for trial.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
69 Magistrate may end witnesses’ evidence
The Magistrate may end the examination or cross-examination on any particular matter of any witness giving evidence for the prosecution or the defence in any committal proceedings if he or she is satisfied that further examination or cross-examination on the matter will not help the Magistrate to make the initial determination under section 62 or a decision under section 64.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
70 Certain evidence may not be excluded
A Magistrate in committal proceedings may not exclude evidence on any of the grounds set out in section 90 (Discretion to exclude admissions) or Part 3.11 (Discretions to exclude evidence) of the Evidence Act 1995.ch 3, pt 2, div 2 (ss 55–70): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Division 3 Prosecution evidence
ch 3, pt 2, div 3: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
71 Evidence to be taken in presence of accused person
The accused person must be present when prosecution evidence is taken, unless this Division or any other Act or law permits the evidence to be taken in the accused person’s absence.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
72 Magistrate may excuse accused person from attending
(1) The Magistrate may excuse the accused person from attending during the taking of prosecution evidence if satisfied that the accused person will be represented by a barrister or solicitor while the evidence is taken or if satisfied that the evidence is not applicable to the accused person.(2) A period during which the accused person is so excused is taken to be an adjournment for the purposes of dealing with the accused person.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
73 Other circumstances in which evidence may be taken in absence of accused person
Evidence may commence or continue to be taken in the absence of an accused person who has not been excused from attending if:(a) no good and proper reason is shown for the absence of the accused person, and(b) a copy of the relevant written statements, and copies of any proposed exhibits identified in the statements (or a notice relating to inspection of them) have been served on the accused person in accordance with this Act and the accused person has been informed of the time set by the Magistrate for taking prosecution evidence.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
74 Prosecution evidence to be in written form
(1) Evidence for the prosecution must be given by written statements that are admissible as evidence.(2) A written statement is not admissible as evidence unless this Division, and any applicable rules or regulations, are complied with in relation to the statement and any associated exhibits or documents.(3) A written statement that is inadmissible as evidence under this section may nevertheless be admitted as evidence if otherwise admissible in accordance with any rule or law of evidence.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
75 Written statements to be served on accused person
(1) The prosecutor must serve or cause to be served on the accused person a copy of the written statements relating to the offence, and copies of any proposed exhibits identified in the statement (or a notice relating to inspection of them), within the time set by the Magistrate under section 60.(2) The last date for service set by the Magistrate under that section must be at least 28 days before the date set by the Magistrate for taking the prosecution evidence in the committal proceedings.(3) The Magistrate may set a later date for service with the consent of the accused person or if of the opinion that the circumstances of the case require it.(4) A written statement served under this Division must contain a notice explaining the effect of this Division and the accused person’s rights in relation to this Division and prosecution evidence under this Division. The notice must be in the form of words prescribed by the rules.(5) Despite subsection (1), the prosecutor is not required to include a copy of a proposed exhibit identified in the brief of evidence if it is impossible or impractical to copy the exhibit.(6) However, in that case the prosecutor is:(a) to serve on the accused person a notice specifying a reasonable time and place at which the proposed exhibit may be inspected, and(b) to allow the accused person a reasonable opportunity to inspect each proposed exhibit referred to in the notice.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
76 Recordings of interviews with children
(1) A written statement may be in the form of a transcript of a recording made by an investigating official of an interview with a child, during which the child was questioned by the investigating official in connection with the investigation of the commission or possible commission of the offence (as referred to in the Evidence (Children) Act 1997), but only if this section is complied with.(2) The copy of the transcript of the recording must be certified by an investigating official as an accurate transcript of the recording and served on the accused person in accordance with section 75.(3) The accused person must be given, in accordance with the regulations under section 12 (2) of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997), a reasonable opportunity to listen to and, in the case of a video recording, to view, the recording.(4) Nothing in this Division requires the prosecutor to serve on the accused person a copy of the actual recording made by an investigating official of an interview with the child (other than a transcript of the record).(5) This section does not affect section 12 (2) of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.(6) In this section:investigating official has the same meaning as in the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.Note—The Evidence (Children) Act 1997 allows children to give evidence of a previous representation in the form of a recording made by an investigating official of an interview with the child. Section 12 (2) of that Act provides that such evidence is not to be admitted unless the accused person and his or her lawyer have been given a reasonable opportunity to listen to or view the recording.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
77 When prosecution evidence may be given in other ways
(1) A prosecutor may apply to have a Magistrate admit prosecution evidence that is not in the form of a written statement admissible in evidence under this Division.(2) The Magistrate may admit the evidence if satisfied that:(a) the written statement was prepared but a copy could not reasonably be served on the accused person, or(b) any other requirement could not reasonably be complied with, or(c) the evidence is additional evidence of a person whose written statement has already been admitted in evidence and a further written statement is not appropriate.(3) If the Magistrate decides not to admit the evidence, the Magistrate may adjourn the committal proceedings to enable the appropriate written statement to be prepared and served on the accused person, or may proceed without taking the evidence.(4) Evidence for the prosecution may be given orally if the prosecutor obtains a subpoena to require a witness to attend to give evidence or to produce documents or things and to give evidence.(5) A prosecutor may, subject to this Division, give evidence and may examine and cross-examine the witnesses giving evidence for the prosecutor or for the accused person, respectively.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
78 Evidentiary effect of written statements
(1) A written statement by any person is, if tendered by the prosecutor, admissible in committal proceedings as evidence to the same extent as if it were oral evidence to the like effect given in those proceedings by the same person.(2) Any document or other thing identified in any written statement admitted as evidence under this Division is, if the document or other thing is produced as an exhibit in the committal proceedings, to be treated as if it had been identified before the Magistrate by the person who made the statement.(3) This section does not operate to make a written statement admissible if it is not admissible because of another provision of this Division.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
79 Form and requirements for written statements
(1) A written statement may be in the form of questions and answers.(2) A written statement must specify the age of the person who made the statement.(3) A written statement must be endorsed in accordance with the rules by the maker of the statement as to the truth of the statement and any other matter required by the rules.(4) A written statement or such an endorsement on a statement must be written in a language of which the person who made the statement has a reasonable understanding.(5) If the written statement, or part of it, is in a language other than English, a document purporting to contain an English translation of the statement or part must be annexed to the statement.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
80 Rules relating to written statements
(1) The rules may prescribe requirements for written statements.(2) Any such requirements may be of the same or a different kind to the requirements contained in this Division.(3) The rules may provide that a requirement prescribed under subsection (2) may not be dispensed with by a Magistrate.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
81 Written statement must be signed by its maker or another person on the maker’s behalf
(1) A written statement must be signed by the person who made the statement.(2) If the person is unable to sign the written statement, the statement may be signed by another person with the consent of and in the presence of the person who made the statement.(3) The other person must sign an endorsement on the statement to the effect that the person signed the statement on behalf of, with the consent of and in the presence of the person who made the statement.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
82 Written statement must be signed by witness
A written statement must be signed by another person as a witness to the signing of the statement by the person who made it or as a witness to the signing by another person on the maker’s behalf (if applicable).ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
83 Presumptions about written statements
(1) In any proceedings it is presumed, if there is no evidence to the contrary, that the age specified in the written statement is in fact the age of the person who made the statement at the time the statement was made.(2) In any proceedings it is presumed, if there is no evidence to the contrary, that the language in which a statement or an endorsement is written is a language of which the person who made the statement or endorsement has a reasonable understanding.(3) In any proceedings it is presumed, if there is no evidence to the contrary, that the English translation of the statement or part statement is an accurate translation of the statement or part.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
84 Presumptions about signatures
(1) In any proceedings it is presumed, if there is no evidence to the contrary, that a signature on a written statement purporting or appearing to be the signature of the person who made it, or a person who signed on behalf of the maker, or a witness to the signing of the statement, is the signature of the person concerned.(2) In any proceedings it is presumed, if there is no evidence to the contrary, that a statement purporting or appearing to be signed by another person on behalf of the person who made the statement in accordance with this Division has been so signed.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
85 False statements
(1) A person who made a written statement tendered in evidence in proceedings is guilty of an offence if the statement contains any matter:(a) that, at the time the statement was made, the person knew to be false, or did not believe to be true, in any material respect, and(b) that was inserted or caused to be inserted by the person in the statement.Maximum penalty:(a) If the offence is dealt with summarily, 20 penalty units or imprisonment for 12 months, or both.(b) If the offence is dealt with on indictment, 50 penalty units or imprisonment for 5 years, or both.(2) Chapter 5 of this Act (which relates to the summary disposal of certain indictable offences unless an election is made to proceed on indictment) applies to and in respect of an offence under this section.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
86 Evidence not to be admitted
The Magistrate must refuse to admit evidence sought to be adduced by the prosecutor in respect of an offence in committal proceedings if, in relation to that evidence, this Division or any rules made under this Division, have not been complied with by the prosecutor.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
87 Inadmissible written statements or parts of statements to be rejected
(1) The Magistrate must reject a written statement, or any part of a written statement, tendered in committal proceedings if the statement or part is inadmissible because of this Division.(2) The Magistrate must record the rejection of a part of a written statement and identify in the record the part rejected.(3) The rules may prescribe the manner of identifying a part of a written statement that has been rejected.ss 71–87: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
88 Death of person who made statement
(1) A written statement is not admissible if, on evidence produced during committal proceedings, the Magistrate is satisfied that the person who made the statement is dead.(2) If it is found after a written statement is admitted in evidence in committal proceedings that the person who made the statement died before the statement was admitted, the statement is taken not to have been admitted in evidence.(3) This section does not apply to a deposition that is admissible under section 284.s 88: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [3].
89 Notice of rights to unrepresented accused person
(1) In any committal proceedings in which an accused person is not represented by a barrister or a solicitor, a written statement is not admissible unless the Magistrate:(a) has explained to the accused person the effect of this Division and the accused person’s rights in relation to this Division, and(b) is satisfied that the accused person understands his or her rights under this Division.(2) The explanation by the Magistrate must be in the form of words prescribed by the rules.s 89: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
90 Magistrate may set aside requirements for written statements
(1) In any committal proceedings, the Magistrate may dispense with all or any of the following requirements of this Act relating to written statements or exhibits:(a) service of documents on the accused person, as required by section 75,(b) provision to the accused person of a reasonable opportunity to inspect proposed exhibits,(c) specification of the age of the person who made a statement,(d) any requirement specified by the regulations, if the rules do not prohibit the Magistrate from dispensing with the requirement.(2) A requirement may be dispensed with under this section only on an application by the accused person or with the consent of the accused person.s 90: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
91 Witness may be directed to attend
(1) The Magistrate may direct the attendance at the committal proceedings of the person who made a written statement tendered as evidence under this Division. The direction may be given on the Magistrate’s own motion or on the application of the accused person or the prosecutor.(2) The Magistrate must give the direction if an application is made by the accused person or the prosecutor and the other party consents to the direction being given.(3) In any other circumstance, the Magistrate may give a direction only if satisfied that there are substantial reasons why, in the interests of justice, the witness should attend to give oral evidence. A direction may not be given if the written statement has already been admitted in evidence.(4) The written statement is not admissible in evidence in the proceedings after the direction is given unless the Magistrate withdraws the direction. This does not affect a statement admitted in evidence before a direction is given.(5) A direction given on the application of the accused person or the prosecutor may be withdrawn only:(a) on the application, or with the consent, of the applicant, or(b) if the applicant fails to appear, on the application of the other party.(6) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the determination of substantial reasons under subsection (3).(7) If a person attends to give oral evidence because of a direction under this section, the Magistrate must not allow the person to be cross-examined in respect of matters that were not the basis of the reasons for giving the direction, unless the Magistrate is satisfied that there are substantial reasons why, in the interests of justice, the person should be cross-examined in respect of those matters.(8) A direction may not be given under this section so as to require the attendance of the complainant in proceedings for a child sexual assault offence if the complainant:(a) was under the age of 16 years:(i) on the earliest date on which, orany child sexual assault offence to which the proceedings relate was allegedly committed, and(ii) at the beginning of the earliest period during which,(b) is currently under the age of 18 years.(9) For the purposes of subsection (8):child sexual assault offence means:(a) a prescribed sexual offence, or(b) an offence that, at the time it was committed, was a child sexual assault offence for the purposes of subsection (8), or(c) an offence of attempting, or of conspiracy or incitement, to commit an offence referred to in paragraph (a) or (b).complainant, in relation to any proceedings, means the person, or any of the persons, against whom a prescribed sexual offence with which the accused person stands charged in those proceedings is alleged to have been committed, and includes:(a) in relation to an offence under section 80E of the Crimes Act 1900, the person who is alleged to have been the subject of sexual servitude, and(b) in relation to an offence under section 91D, 91E or 91F of the Crimes Act 1900, the person under the age of 18 years who is alleged to have participated in an act of child prostitution, and(c) in relation to an offence under section 91G of the Crimes Act 1900, the person under the age of 18 years who is alleged to have been used for pornographic purposes.s 91: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Am 2003 No 27, Sch 8 [2]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [3]; 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [2].
92 When accused person may apply to have witness attend
(1) The accused person in any committal proceedings may not apply for a direction under section 91 unless the accused person has served on the prosecutor a notice requesting the attendance at the proceedings of the person who made the statement concerned.(2) The notice must be served within the time set by the Magistrate.(3) The last date for service of the notice set by the Magistrate must be at least 14 days before the time set by the Magistrate for taking the prosecution evidence in the committal proceedings.(4) The Magistrate may specify a later date with the consent of the accused person or if the circumstances of the case require it.ss 92–96: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
93 Victim witnesses generally not to be cross-examined
(1) Despite section 91, in any committal proceedings in which the accused person is charged with an offence involving violence, the Magistrate may not, under that section, direct the attendance of an alleged victim of the offence who made a written statement unless the Magistrate is of the opinion that there are special reasons why the alleged victim should, in the interests of justice, attend to give oral evidence.(2) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the determination of any such special reasons.ss 92–96: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
94 Meaning of “offence involving violence”
(1) The following offences are offences involving violence for the purposes of section 93:(a) a prescribed sexual offence,(b) an offence under sections 27–30 of the Crimes Act 1900 (attempts to murder),(c) an offence under section 33 of the Crimes Act 1900 (wounding etc with intent to do grievous bodily harm or resist arrest),(d) an offence under section 35 (b) of the Crimes Act 1900 (infliction of grievous bodily harm),(e) an offence under sections 86–91 of the Crimes Act 1900 (abduction or kidnapping),(f) an offence under sections 94–98 of the Crimes Act 1900 (robbery),(g) an offence that, at the time it was committed, was an offence involving violence for the purposes of section 93,(h) any other offence that involves an act of actual or threatened violence that is prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section.(2) An offence that may be dealt with summarily under Chapter 5 is not an offence involving violence for the purposes of section 93.ss 92–96: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
95 Use of previous statements in cases involving prescribed sexual offences
(1) In proceedings in relation to a prescribed sexual offence, if:(a) the offence is alleged to have been committed in the course of a connected set of circumstances in which another prescribed sexual offence is alleged to have been committed, and(b) the accused person has been committed for trial in respect of, or has been convicted of, the other offence, andtranscripts of evidence of the person on whom the offence is alleged to have been committed at the proceedings in which the accused person was committed or tried in respect of the other offence may, in so far as they are relevant to the offence the subject of the hearing, be included in a brief of evidence.(c) each of the offences is alleged to have been committed on the same person,(2) A copy of the transcript must be certified by a registrar in accordance with the rules and served on the accused person in accordance with section 183.(3) A brief of evidence that includes a transcript of a deposition of a person is not required also to include a written statement from the person concerned in respect of any matter covered by the transcript.(4) The transcript of the deposition is taken, for the purposes of this Act, to be a written statement taken from the person. Accordingly, any document or other thing identified in the transcript as a proposed exhibit forms part of the brief of evidence.ss 92–96: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
96 Application of Division to proceedings where there is more than one accused person
In committal proceedings in which there are 2 or more accused persons, this Division applies:(a) in relation to each accused person to the extent only that a written statement is sought to be admitted as evidence against that accused person, and(b) in relation to each such accused person as if that accused person were the only accused person.ss 92–96: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Division 4 Defence evidence
ch 3, pt 2, div 4: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
97 Evidence for accused person
(1) The Magistrate must give the accused person an opportunity to give evidence in the committal proceedings or to call any witness on the accused person’s behalf.(2) An accused person may make full answer and defence. An accused person may give evidence and may examine and cross-examine the witnesses giving evidence for the accused person or for the prosecution, respectively.Note—For other provisions applying to evidence in committal proceedings, see the Evidence Act 1995.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
98 Other evidence about accused person
Nothing in this Part prevents the prosecutor from giving in evidence any admission or confession or other statement by the accused person, made at any time, which is by law admissible as evidence against the accused person.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Division 5 Procedure if accused person pleads guilty
ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
99 Effect of guilty plea
(1) An accused person may at any time in committal proceedings plead guilty to the offence concerned. If a person pleads guilty, the provisions of this Division apply.(2) Rejection of a guilty plea does not prevent an accused person from pleading guilty at a later stage in the proceedings.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
100 Guilty plea may be accepted or rejected
The Magistrate may accept or reject the guilty plea.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
101 Effect of rejection of guilty plea
If the guilty plea is rejected, the committal proceedings continue as if the accused person had not pleaded guilty.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
102 Effect of acceptance of guilty plea
If the guilty plea is accepted, the Magistrate must commit the accused person to the District Court or the Supreme Court, to be dealt with in accordance with this Division.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
103 Procedure applicable after committal for trial
(1) All proceedings (whether under this or any other Act) relating to a committal for trial apply, so far as practicable, to a committal of an accused person after the guilty plea is accepted.(2) For the purposes of the venue or change of venue of consequent proceedings, a committal is taken to be a committal for trial.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
104 Higher court may refer accused person back to Magistrate
(1) A Judge of the District Court or the Supreme Court before whom an accused person is brought under this Division may order that the committal proceedings be continued before a Magistrate if:(a) it appears to the Judge from the information or evidence given to or before the Judge that the facts in respect of which the court attendance notice was issued do not support the offence to which the accused person pleaded guilty, or(b) the prosecutor requests the order be made, or(c) for any other reason, the Judge thinks fit to do so.(2) On the resumption of the committal proceedings, the committal proceedings continue as if the person had not pleaded guilty.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
105 Disposal of proceedings by higher court
(1) The District Court or the Supreme Court may proceed to sentence or otherwise deal with an accused person brought before the Court under this Division as if the accused person had on arraignment at any sittings of the Court pleaded guilty to the offence on an indictment filed or presented by the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions.(2) An accused person who is sentenced or otherwise dealt with under this section is for the purposes of any Act or law (whether enacted before or after the commencement of this section) taken to be convicted on indictment of the offence concerned.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
106 Change to not guilty plea in higher court
(1) If an accused person brought before the District Court or the Supreme Court under this Division changes to not guilty the plea to the offence on which the accused person was committed to the Court, the Judge must direct that the accused person be put on trial for the offence.(2) On the direction being given, the accused person is taken to have been committed for trial for the offence. The Judge may make the same orders and do the same things (including dealing with the accused person) as a Magistrate can on committing an accused person for trial.(3) The Judge may give directions as to matters preliminary to the trial as the Judge thinks just.(4) A direction may not be given under subsection (1) if the offence is punishable by imprisonment for life, but the Judge may make an order under section 104.(5) Despite subsection (1), the Judge may make an order under section 104 instead of giving a direction under subsection (1), if of the opinion that such an order should be made.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
107 Attorney General or Director of Public Prosecutions may direct that no further proceedings be taken
(1) If a guilty plea is accepted under this Division, the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions may, at their discretion, direct in writing that no further proceedings be taken against the accused person under this Division for the offence concerned.(2) No further proceedings may be taken against the accused person under this Division for the offence if a direction is given.Note—Section 44 requires the release of the accused person once a certificate is delivered to the Supreme Court after a direction is given.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
108 Meaning of “accused person”
In this Division:accused person includes a person who has been committed for sentence to the District Court or Supreme Court.ch 3, pt 2, div 5 (ss 97–108): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Division 6 Procedure after committal for trial or sentence
ch 3, pt 2, div 6: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
109 Accused person to be committed to correctional centre
(1) An accused person who is committed for trial or sentence in any committal proceedings must be committed to a correctional centre by the Magistrate until the sittings of the court at which the person is to be tried or dealt with or until the accused person is otherwise released by operation of law.(2) A Magistrate may order the issue of a warrant under this section.(3) An authorised officer may, for the purposes of this section, issue a warrant to arrest the accused person.(4) An authorised officer before whom an accused person is brought on arrest on a warrant issued under this section may issue a warrant:(a) committing the accused person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) ordering the accused person to be brought before a court at the time and place specified in the order.Note—Part 4 of Chapter 4 sets out procedures for arrest warrants and warrants of commitment generally.The Bail Act 1978 provides for the circumstances when such a person must or may be granted bail rather than be held in prison.ss 109–113: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
110 Bail undertakings and conditions to be notified
If an accused person committed to a correctional centre on committal for trial or sentence is released on bail, the person to whom the bail undertaking is given must transmit to the registrar of the relevant court:(a) the bail undertaking, and(b) any cash or other thing deposited under the bail undertaking, and(c) the instrument by which any bail conditions were imposed on the grant of bail, and(d) any agreement or acknowledgment entered into or made pursuant to any such bail condition.ss 109–113: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
111 Papers to be sent to officer of higher court
(1) The registrar must, as soon as possible after the end of committal proceedings, give to the appropriate officer of the court to which an accused person is committed for trial or sentence the documents required by the rules.(2) The appropriate officer if an accused person is committed to the Supreme Court is the registrar of the Criminal Division of the Supreme Court.(3) The appropriate officer if an accused person is committed to the District Court is a registrar of the District Court.(4) The appropriate officer must deliver the documents to the proper officer of the Court at which the trial is to be held or the accused person dealt with, if the Judge presiding so directs.ss 109–113: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
112 Responsibilities of appropriate officer
After the documents are transmitted and before the day of trial or the day on which the accused person is to be dealt with, the appropriate officer has, in relation to the documents, the same duties and is subject to the same liabilities as the Magistrate would have or be subject to before the transmission in relation to an order in the nature of certiorari or a rule or order instead of certiorari directed to the Magistrate.ss 109–113: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
113 Copies of trial papers to be given to Director of Public Prosecutions
(1) The appropriate officer must, as soon as practicable after receiving a document transmitted by the registrar after an accused person is committed for trial or sentence, transmit a copy of the document to the Director of Public Prosecutions.(2) The copy must be transmitted by the most convenient method, having regard to the necessity to maintain the security of the document.ss 109–113: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
114 Copies of transcripts of evidence and witnesses’ statements
(1) An accused person who is committed for trial or sentence is entitled to obtain one copy of the transcript of evidence taken at the committal proceedings, and any written statements tendered at the proceedings.(2) The rules may make provision for or with respect to the provision of a copy to the person and the regulations may make provision for or with respect to the fees for the provision of a copy.s 114: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43]. Am 2005 No 28, Sch 5.11 [2].
115 Meaning of “accused person”
In this Division:accused person includes a person who has been committed for trial or sentence to the District Court or Supreme Court.s 115: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Division 7 Costs
ch 3, pt 2, div 7 (ss 116–120): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
116 When costs may be awarded to accused persons
(1) A Magistrate may at the end of committal proceedings order that the prosecutor pay professional costs to the registrar, for payment to the accused person, if:(a) the accused person is discharged as to the subject-matter of the offence or the matter is withdrawn, or(b) the accused person is committed for trial or sentence for an indictable offence which is not the same as the indictable offence the subject of the court attendance notice.(2) The amount of professional costs is to be the amount that the Magistrate considers to be just and reasonable.(3) The order must specify the amount of professional costs payable.(4) If the accused person is discharged, the order for costs may form part of the order discharging the accused person.(5) In this section:professional costs means costs (other than court costs) relating to professional expenses and disbursements (including witnesses’ expenses) in respect of proceedings before a Magistrate.ch 3, pt 2, div 7 (ss 116–120): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
117 Limit on circumstances when costs may be awarded against a public officer
(1) Professional costs are not to be awarded in favour of an accused person in any committal proceedings unless the Magistrate is satisfied as to any one or more of the following:(a) that the investigation into the alleged offence was conducted in an unreasonable or improper manner,(b) that the proceedings were initiated without reasonable cause or in bad faith or were conducted by the prosecutor in an improper manner,(c) that the prosecution unreasonably failed to investigate (or to investigate properly) any relevant matter of which it was aware or ought reasonably to have been aware and which suggested either that the accused person might not be guilty or that, for any other reason, the proceedings should not have been brought,(d) that, because of other exceptional circumstances relating to the conduct of the proceedings by the prosecutor, it is just and reasonable to award costs.(2) This section does not apply to the awarding of costs against a prosecutor acting in a private capacity.(3) In this section:professional costs means costs (other than court costs) relating to professional expenses and disbursements (including witnesses’ expenses) in respect of proceedings before a Magistrate.ch 3, pt 2, div 7 (ss 116–120): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
118 Costs on adjournment
(1) A Magistrate may in any committal proceedings, at his or her discretion or on the application of the prosecutor or an accused person, order that one party pay costs if the matter is adjourned.(2) An order may be made only if the Magistrate is satisfied that the other party has incurred additional costs because of the unreasonable conduct or delay of the party against whom the order is made.(3) An order may be made whatever the result of the proceedings.ch 3, pt 2, div 7 (ss 116–120): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
119 Content of costs orders
The order must specify the amount of costs payable or may provide for the determination of the amount at the end of the proceedings.ch 3, pt 2, div 7 (ss 116–120): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
120 Enforcement of costs orders
An order made by a Magistrate under this Division for the payment of costs is taken to be a fine within the meaning of the Fines Act 1996.ch 3, pt 2, div 7 (ss 116–120): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [43].
Part 3 Trial procedures
ch 3, pt 3, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [44].
Division 1 Listing
ch 3, pt 3, div 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [44].
121 Definitions
In this Part:Criminal Listing Director means the public servant holding or acting in the position of that name, and includes any public servant authorised by the Criminal Listing Director, or in accordance with the regulations, to exercise any functions of the Criminal Listing Director.criminal proceedings means:(a) proceedings relating to the trial of a person before the Supreme Court or the District Court,(b) proceedings relating to the sentencing of a person by the Supreme Court or the District Court, or(c) proceedings relating to an appeal under the Crimes (Local Courts Appeal and Review) Act 2001 to the District Court in its criminal jurisdiction.s 121 (previously s 40): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [45]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [46].
122 Listing
(1) The Criminal Listing Director is, subject to the regulations, to make arrangements for the listing of criminal proceedings that are to be heard and determined before the Supreme Court or the District Court.(1A) In making such listing arrangements, the Criminal Listing Director is responsible to:(a) the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in the case of criminal proceedings that are to be heard and determined before that Court, or(b) the Chief Judge of the District Court, in the case of criminal proceedings that are to be heard and determined before that Court.(2) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the practice and procedure to be adopted for the listing of criminal proceedings that are to be heard and determined before the Supreme Court or the District Court.(3) Regulations made under this section prevail over rules of court, or any direction or order of a court, to the extent of any inconsistency.s 122: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [45].
123 Authority of Criminal Listing Director
It is the duty of all persons involved in criminal proceedings to abide, as far as practicable, by the arrangements made by the Criminal Listing Director in exercising functions under this Act.ss 123 (previously ss 41, 43): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [45].
124 Liaison
For the purpose of exercising the functions conferred on the Criminal Listing Director, the Criminal Listing Director may liaise with the Judges and officers of the Supreme Court and the District Court, prosecutors, accused persons and their lawyers, and other persons involved in criminal proceedings.s 124 (previously s 44): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [45]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [47].
125 Certain matters not affected
(1) This Division does not authorise the Criminal Listing Director:(a) to fix or change the venue of proceedings, except with the consent of the accused person and the prosecutor, or(b) to determine when or where a court is to exercise its jurisdiction.(2) Nothing in this Division relating to the Criminal Listing Director affects:(a) the power of the Attorney General to fix or change the venue of any matter,(b) the power of a court to regulate proceedings before it,(c) the power of a court to adjourn any matter,(d) proceedings in the Court of Criminal Appeal,(e) proceedings in the Supreme Court in its summary jurisdiction, or(f) proceedings under the Bail Act 1978.s 125 (previously s 45): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [45]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [48] [49].
Division 2 Commencement and nature of proceedings
ch 3, pt 3, div 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [50].
126 Signing of indictments
(1) An indictment shall be signed:(a) by the Attorney General, the Solicitor General or the Director of Public Prosecutions, or(b) for and on behalf of the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions by:(i) a Crown Prosecutor,(ii) a Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, or(iii) a person authorised under subsection (2) to sign indictments.(2) The Director of Public Prosecutions may, by order in writing, authorise a person to sign indictments for and on behalf of the Director.(3) It shall be presumed, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that an indictment signed by a person for and on behalf of the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions was signed by a person authorised to do so.(4) A certificate signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions to the effect that a specified person was authorised during a specified period to sign indictments for and on behalf of the Director is admissible in evidence in any legal proceedings and is evidence of the matters certified.s 126 (previously s 50): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [51].
127 Manner of presenting indictments
The regulations and (subject to the regulations) the rules of court may make provision for or with respect to the manner of presenting indictments (including by the filing of the indictment in a court registry).s 127 (previously s 53A): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [52].
128 Directions as to indictments to be presented in District Court
(1) The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court may issue a practice note on behalf of the Supreme Court giving directions to prosecutors with respect to the classes of indictments that are to be presented to the District Court rather than the Supreme Court.(2) The Chief Justice may exempt a particular indictment from any such direction.(3) The Supreme Court may reject an indictment:(a) that is of a class to which any such direction applies, and(b) that was presented after the direction was given, and(c) that has not been exempted from the direction by the Chief Justice.(4) The rejection of an indictment does not preclude the presentation of a further indictment in accordance with any such direction.s 128 (previously s 52): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [53]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [54].
129 Time within which indictment to be presented
(1) In this section, relevant court, in relation to a matter, means the Supreme Court or the District Court before which the matter has been listed for trial or mention.(2) An indictment is to be presented within 4 weeks after the committal of the accused person for trial, except as provided by this section.(3) The time within which the indictment is to be presented may be extended:(a) by the regulations or (subject to the regulations) the rules of the relevant court, or(b) by order of the relevant court.(4) If an indictment is not presented within the time required by this section, the relevant court may:(a) proceed with the trial if an indictment has been presented, or(b) adjourn the proceedings, or(c) take such other action as it thinks appropriate in the circumstances of the case.(5) The prosecutor has no right to an adjournment merely because an indictment has not been presented.(6) The relevant court must, in exercising any power under this section, have regard to the fact that the Crown does not have a right of appeal if the accused person is acquitted.(7) This section does not affect the powers of the relevant court under section 21.s 129 (previously s 54): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [55]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [56].
130 Trial proceedings after presentation of indictment and before empanelment of jury
(1) In this section, court means the Supreme Court or District Court.(2) The court has jurisdiction with respect to the conduct of proceedings on indictment as soon as the indictment is presented and the accused person is arraigned, and any orders that may be made by the court for the purposes of the trial in the absence of a jury may be made before a jury is empanelled for the trial.(3) If proceedings are held for the purpose of making any such orders after the indictment is presented to commence the trial and before the jury is empanelled:(a) the proceedings are part of the trial of the accused person, and(b) the accused person is to be arraigned again on the indictment when the jury is empanelled for the continuation of the trial.(4) Nothing in this section requires a jury to be empanelled if the accused person pleads guilty to an offence during proceedings to which this section applies.(5) This section applies to proceedings in respect of indictments presented after the commencement of this section.s 130 (previously s 56): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [57]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [58].
130A Pre-trial orders bind trial Judge in sexual offence proceedings
(1) A pre-trial order made by a Judge in sexual offence proceedings is binding on the trial Judge in those proceedings unless, in the opinion of the trial Judge, it would not be in the interests of justice for the order to be binding.(2) If, on an appeal against a conviction for a prescribed sexual offence, a new trial is ordered, a pre-trial order made by a Judge in relation to the sexual offence proceedings from which the conviction arose is binding on the trial Judge hearing the fresh trial proceedings unless:(a) the pre-trial order is inconsistent with an order made on appeal, or(b) in the opinion of the trial Judge, it would not be in the interests of justice for the order to be binding.(3) If sexual offence proceedings before a trial Judge are discontinued for any reason, a pre-trial order made by a Judge in respect of those proceedings is binding on a trial Judge hearing any subsequent trial proceedings relating to the same offence as the discontinued proceedings unless, in the opinion of the trial Judge, it would not be in the interests of justice for the order to be binding.(4) For the purposes of this section:pre-trial order means any order made after the indictment is first presented but before the empanelment of a jury for a trial.sexual offence proceedings means proceedings on indictment in respect of a prescribed sexual offence.trial Judge means the Judge before whom the trial proceedings, following empanelment of a jury, are heard.(5) For the purposes of this section, a reference to the empanelment of a jury is, in the case of a trial by a Judge alone, taken to be a reference to the point in time when the Judge first assumes the role of the tribunal of fact.s 130A: Ins 2005 No 102, Sch 1 [1].
131 Trial by jury in criminal proceedings
Criminal proceedings in the Supreme Court or the District Court are to be tried by a jury, except as otherwise provided by this Part.ss 131–133 (previously ss 15–17): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [59].
132 Trial by Judge in criminal proceedings
(1) An accused person in criminal proceedings in the Supreme Court or District Court must be tried by the Judge alone if:(a) the person so elects in accordance with this section, and(b) the Judge is satisfied that the person, before making the election, sought and received advice in relation to the election from a barrister or solicitor.(2) An election may not be made unless:(a) all other accused persons in the trial also elect to be tried by the Judge alone, and(b) each election is made in respect of all offences with which the accused persons in the trial are charged.(3) An election may be made only with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions.(4) An election must be made before the date fixed for the person’s trial in the Supreme Court or District Court.(5) An accused person who elects to be tried by the Judge alone may, at any time before the date fixed for the person’s trial, subsequently elect to be tried by a jury.(6) Rules of court may be made with respect to elections under this section.ss 131–133 (previously ss 15–17): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [59].
133 Verdict of single Judge
(1) A Judge who tries criminal proceedings without a jury may make any finding that could have been made by a jury on the question of the guilt of the accused person. Any such finding has, for all purposes, the same effect as a verdict of a jury.(2) A judgment by a Judge in any such case must include the principles of law applied by the Judge and the findings of fact on which the Judge relied.(3) If any Act or law requires a warning to be given to a jury in any such case, the Judge is to take the warning into account in dealing with the matter.ss 131–133 (previously ss 15–17): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [59].
Division 3 Pre-trial disclosure—case management
ch 3, pt 3, div 3, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [60].
134 Purpose
The purpose of this Division is to enable the court, on a case by case basis, to impose pre-trial disclosure requirements on both the prosecution and the defence in order to reduce delays in complex criminal trials.s 134 (previously s 47A): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61].
135 Definitions
In this Division:court means the Supreme Court or District Court.pre-trial disclosure requirements means requirements for pre-trial disclosure imposed by the court in accordance with this Division.s 135 (previously s 47B): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [62].
136 Court may order pre-trial disclosure in particular case
(1) After the indictment is presented in any criminal proceedings, the court may order both the prosecutor and the accused person to undertake pre-trial disclosure in accordance with this Division.(2) The court may order pre-trial disclosure only if the court is satisfied that it will be a complex criminal trial having regard to:(a) the likely length of the trial, and(b) the nature of the evidence to be adduced at the trial, and(c) the legal issues likely to arise at the trial.(3) The court may order pre-trial disclosure on application of any party or on the court’s own initiative.(4) The court may order pre-trial disclosure only if the court is satisfied that the accused person will be represented by a legal practitioner.(5) The court may limit pre-trial disclosure to any specified aspect of the proceedings.ss 136–140 (previously ss 47C–47G): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
137 Pre-trial disclosure requirements—general
(1) Pre-trial disclosure is to be made as follows:(a) the prosecutor is to give the accused person notice of the case for the prosecution,(b) after the accused person has been given notice of the case for the prosecution, the accused person is to give the prosecutor notice of the defence response to the case for the prosecution (referred to in this Division as the defence response),(c) after the prosecutor has been given notice of the defence response, the prosecutor is to give the accused person notice of the prosecution response to the defence response.(2) Pre-trial disclosure is to be made in accordance with a timetable determined by the court.(3) For the purposes of the pre-trial disclosure requirements, a reference to the accused person is to be read as including a reference to the legal practitioner of the accused person.ss 136–140 (previously ss 47C–47G): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
138 Disclosure of case for the prosecution
The notice of the case for the prosecution is to contain the following:(a) a copy of the indictment,(b) an outline of the prosecution case,(c) copies of statements of witnesses proposed to be called at the trial by the prosecutor,(d) copies of any documents or other exhibits proposed to be tendered at the trial by the prosecutor,(e) if any expert witnesses are proposed to be called at the trial by the prosecutor, copies of any reports by them that are relevant to the case,(f) a copy of any information in the possession of the prosecutor that is relevant to the reliability or credibility of a prosecution witness,(g) a copy of any information, document or other thing provided by police officers to the prosecutor, or otherwise in the possession of the prosecutor, that may be relevant to the case of the prosecutor or the accused person, and that has not otherwise been disclosed to the accused person,(h) a copy of any information, document or other thing in the possession of the prosecutor that is adverse to the credit or credibility of the accused person.ss 136–140 (previously ss 47C–47G): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
139 Defence response
(1) The notice of the defence response is to contain the following:(a) notice as to whether the accused person proposes to adduce evidence at the trial of any of the following contentions:(i) insanity,(ii) self-defence,(iii) provocation,(iv) accident,(v) duress,(vi) claim of right,(vii) automatism,(viii) intoxication,(b) if any expert witnesses are proposed to be called at the trial by the accused person, copies of any reports by them proposed to be relied on by the accused person,(c) the names and addresses of any character witnesses who are proposed to be called at the trial by the accused person (but only if the prosecution has given an undertaking that any such witness will not be interviewed before the trial by police officers or the prosecutor in connection with the proceedings without the leave of the court),(d) the accused person’s response to the particulars raised in the notice of the case for the prosecution (as provided for by subsection (2)).(2) The accused person’s response to the particulars raised in the notice of the case for the prosecution is to contain the following:(a) if the prosecutor disclosed an intention to adduce expert evidence at the trial, notice as to whether the accused person disputes any of the expert evidence and which evidence is disputed,(b) if the prosecutor disclosed an intention to adduce evidence at the trial that has been obtained by means of surveillance, notice as to whether the accused person proposes to require the prosecutor to call any witnesses to corroborate that evidence and, if so, which witnesses will be required,(c) notice as to whether the accused person proposes to raise any issue with respect to the continuity of custody of any proposed exhibit disclosed by the prosecutor,(d) if the prosecutor disclosed an intention to tender at the trial any transcript, notice as to whether the accused person accepts the transcript as accurate and, if not, in what respect the transcript is disputed,(e) notice as to whether the accused person proposes to dispute the accuracy or admissibility of any proposed documentary evidence or other exhibit disclosed by the prosecutor,(f) notice as to whether the accused person proposes to dispute the admissibility of any other proposed evidence disclosed by the prosecutor and the basis for the objection,(g) notice of any significant issue the accused person proposes to raise regarding the form of the indictment, severability of the charges or separate trials for the charges.ss 136–140 (previously ss 47C–47G): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
140 Prosecution response to defence response
The notice of the prosecution response to the defence response is to contain the following:(a) if the accused person has disclosed an intention to adduce expert evidence at the trial, notice as to whether the prosecutor disputes any of the expert evidence and, if so, in what respect,(b) if the accused person has disclosed an intention to tender any exhibit at the trial, notice as to whether the prosecutor proposes to raise any issue with respect to the continuity of custody of the exhibit,(c) if the accused person has disclosed an intention to tender any documentary evidence or other exhibit at the trial, notice as to whether the prosecutor proposes to dispute the accuracy or admissibility of the documentary evidence or other exhibit,(d) notice as to whether the prosecutor proposes to dispute the admissibility of any other proposed evidence disclosed by the accused person, and the basis for the objection,(e) a copy of any information, document or other thing in the possession of the prosecutor, not already disclosed to the accused person, that might reasonably be expected to assist the case for the defence,(f) a copy of any information, document or other thing that has not already been disclosed to the accused person and that is required to be contained in the notice of the case for the prosecution.ss 136–140 (previously ss 47C–47G): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
141 Disclosure requirements are ongoing
(1) The obligation to undertake pre-trial disclosure continues until any of the following happens:(a) the accused person is convicted or acquitted of the charges in the indictment,(b) the prosecution is terminated.(2) Accordingly, if any information, document or other thing is obtained or anything else occurs after pre-trial disclosure is made by a party to the proceedings, that would have affected that pre-trial disclosure had the information, document or thing been obtained or the thing occurred before pre- trial disclosure was made, the information, document, thing or occurrence is to be disclosed to the other party to the proceedings as soon as practicable.s 141 (previously s 47H): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61].
142 Court may waive requirements
(1) A court may, by order, waive any of the pre-trial disclosure requirements that apply under this Division.(2) The court may make such an order on its own initiative or on the application of the prosecutor or the accused person.(3) An order may be made subject to such conditions (if any) as the court thinks fit.s 142: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
143 Requirements as to notices
(1) A notice under this Division is to be in writing.(2) Any notice purporting to be given under this Division on behalf of the accused person by his or her legal practitioner is, unless the contrary is proved, taken to have been given with the authority of the accused person.(3) A notice under this Division that is required to be given to a prosecutor may be given to the prosecutor in the following manner, or as otherwise directed by the court:(a) by delivering it to the prosecutor,(b) by leaving it at the office of the prosecutor,(c) by sending it by post or facsimile to the prosecutor at the office of the prosecutor,(d) by sending it by electronic mail to the prosecutor, but only if the prosecutor has agreed to notice being given in that manner.(4) A notice under this Division that is required to be given to an accused person may be given to the accused person in the following manner, or as otherwise directed by the court:(a) by delivering it to the accused person,(b) by leaving it at the office of the legal practitioner of the accused person,(c) by sending it by post or facsimile to the legal practitioner of the accused person at the office of the legal practitioner,(d) by sending it by electronic mail to the legal practitioner, but only if the legal practitioner has agreed to notice being given in that manner.ss 143 (previously ss 47I, 47J): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
144 Copies of exhibits and other things not to be provided if impracticable
(1) A copy of a proposed exhibit, document or thing is not required to be included in a notice under this Division if it is impossible or impractical to provide a copy.(2) However, the party required to give the notice:(a) is to specify in the notice a reasonable time and place at which the proposed exhibit, document or thing may be inspected, and(b) is to allow the other party to the proceedings a reasonable opportunity to inspect the proposed exhibit, document or thing referred to in the notice.s 144 (previously s 47K): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61].
145 Personal details not to be provided
(1) The prosecutor is not to disclose in any notice under this Division the address or telephone number of any witness proposed to be called by the prosecutor, or of any other living person, unless:(a) the address or telephone number is a materially relevant part of the evidence, or(b) the court makes an order permitting the disclosure.(2) An application for such an order may be made by the accused person or the prosecutor.(3) The court must not make such an order unless satisfied that the disclosure is not likely to present a reasonably ascertainable risk to the welfare or protection of any person or that the interests of justice (including the accused person’s right to prepare properly for the hearing of the evidence for the prosecution) outweigh any such risk.(4) This section does not prevent the disclosure of an address if the disclosure does not identify it as a particular person’s address, or it could not reasonably be inferred from the matters disclosed that it is a particular person’s address.(5) An address or telephone number that must not be disclosed may, without reference to the person who made the statement being disclosed, be deleted from that statement, or rendered illegible, before the statement is given to the accused person.s 145 (previously s 47L): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
146 Requirements as to statements of witnesses
(1) A statement of a witness that is included in a notice under this Division may be in the form of questions and answers.(2) If a notice includes a statement that is, wholly or in part, in a language other than English, there must be annexed to it a document purporting to contain a translation of the statement, or so much of it as is not in the English language, into the English language.s 146 (previously s 47M): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61].
147 Exemption for matters disclosed in brief of evidence
The prosecutor is not required to include in a notice under this Division anything that has already been included in a brief of evidence served on the accused person in accordance with section 265.s 147 (previously s 47N): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63]; 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [3].
148 Sanctions for non-compliance with pre-trial disclosure requirements
(1) Exclusion of evidence The court may refuse to admit evidence in any criminal proceedings that is sought to be adduced by a party who failed to disclose the evidence to the other party in accordance with pre-trial disclosure requirements.(2) Dispensing with formal proof The court may allow evidence to be adduced by a party to criminal proceedings without formal proof of a matter if the evidence was disclosed to the other party and the other party did not disclose an intention to dispute or require proof of the matter as required by the pre-trial disclosure requirements.(3) Adjournment The court may grant an adjournment to a party if the other party seeks to adduce evidence in the criminal proceedings that the other party failed to disclose in accordance with pre-trial disclosure requirements and that would prejudice the case of the party.(4) Comment to jury The judge or, with the leave of the court, any party may comment on a failure by a party to comply with pre-trial disclosure requirements in any criminal proceedings. However, the comment must not suggest that an accused person failed to comply because the accused person was, or believed that he or she was, guilty of the offence concerned.(5) Application of sanctions Without limiting subsection (6), the powers of the court may not be exercised under this section to prevent an accused person adducing evidence or to comment on any non-compliance by the accused person unless the prosecutor has complied with the pre-trial disclosure requirements.(6) Regulations The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the exercise of the powers of a court under this section (including the circumstances in which the powers may not be exercised).s 148 (previously s 47O): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63].
149 Miscellaneous provisions
(1) A statement about any matter that is made by or on behalf of the accused person for the purposes of complying with the pre-trial disclosure requirements does not constitute an admission of that matter by the accused.(2) The court may make orders to resolve any dispute between the parties to criminal proceedings about:(a) pre-trial disclosure requirements, or(b) the use of anything disclosed under this Division (including restrictions on publication or further disclosure).(3) This Division does not affect the obligations or powers under Division 4 (Pre-trial disclosure—general).(4) Nothing in this Division prevents any voluntary pre-trial disclosure by the accused person to the prosecutor of any information, document or other thing that the accused person proposes to adduce in evidence in the proceedings.(5) This Division does not limit any obligation (apart from this Division) for pre-trial disclosure, but this Division prevails to the extent of any inconsistency with any such obligation. Any such obligation extends to obligations imposed by the common law, the rules of court, the rules of practice of barristers or solicitors and prosecution guidelines issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions.(6) However, this Division does not affect any immunity that applies by law to the disclosure of any information, document or other thing, including, for example, legal professional or client legal privilege, public interest immunity and sexual assault communications privilege under Division 2 of Part 5 of Chapter 6.s 149 (previously s 47P): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [63]; 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [4] [5].
Division 4 Pre-trial disclosure—general
ch 3, pt 3, div 4, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [64].
150 Notice of alibi
(1) This section applies only to trials on indictment.(2) An accused person may not, without the leave of the court, adduce evidence in support of an alibi unless, before the end of the prescribed period, he or she gives notice of particulars of the alibi.(3) Without limiting subsection (2), the accused person may not, without the leave of the court, call any other person to give evidence in support of an alibi unless:(a) the notice under that subsection includes the other person’s name and address or, if the other person’s name or address is not known to the accused person at the time he or she gives notice, any information in his or her possession that might be of material assistance in finding the other person, and(b) if the other person’s name or address is not included in the notice, the court is satisfied that the accused person before giving notice took, and thereafter continued to take, all reasonable steps to ensure that the other person’s name or address would be ascertained, and(c) if the other person’s name or address is not included in the notice, but the accused person subsequently discovers the other person’s name or address or receives other information that might be of material assistance in finding the other person, he or she immediately gives notice of the name, address or other information, and(d) if the accused person is notified by or on behalf of the Crown that the other person has not been traced by the name or address given by the accused person, he or she immediately gives notice of any information that might be of material assistance in finding the other person and that is then in his or her possession or, on subsequently receiving any such information, immediately gives notice of it.(4) The court may not refuse leave under this section if it appears to the court that, on the committal for trial of the accused person, he or she was not informed by the committing Magistrate of the requirements of subsections (2), (3) and (7) and, for that purpose, a statement in writing by the committing Magistrate that the accused person was informed of those requirements is evidence that the accused person was so informed.(5) Any evidence tendered to disprove an alibi may, subject to any direction by the court, be given before or after evidence is given in support of the alibi.(6) Any notice purporting to be given under this section on behalf of the accused person by his or her legal practitioner is, unless the contrary is proved, to be taken to have been given with the authority of the accused person.(7) A notice under this section must be given in writing to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and may be given by delivering it to the Director, by leaving it at the Director’s office or by sending it in a letter addressed to the Director at the Director’s office.(8) In this section:evidence in support of an alibi means evidence tending to show that, by reason of the presence of the accused person at a particular place or in a particular area at a particular time, the accused person was not, or was unlikely to have been, at the place where the offence is alleged to have been committed at the time of its alleged commission.prescribed period means the period commencing at the time of the accused person’s committal for trial and ending 21 days before the trial is listed for hearing.s 150 (previously s 48): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [65]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [66].
151 Notice of intention to adduce evidence of substantial mental impairment
(1) On a trial for murder, the accused person must not, without the leave of the court, adduce evidence tending to prove a contention of substantial mental impairment unless the accused person gives notice, as prescribed by the regulations, of his or her intention to raise that contention.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the accused person must not, without the leave of the court, call any other person to give evidence tending to prove a contention of substantial mental impairment unless the notice under this section includes:(a) the name and address of the other person, and(b) particulars of the evidence to be given by the other person.(3) Any evidence tendered to disprove a contention of substantial mental impairment may, subject to any direction of the court, be given before or after evidence is given to prove that contention.(4) Any notice purporting to be given under this section on behalf of the accused person by his or her legal practitioner is taken, unless the contrary is proved, to have been given with the authority of the accused person.(5) A notice under this section is to be given in writing to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and may be given by delivering it to the Director, by leaving it at the Director’s office or by sending it in a letter addressed to the Director at the Director’s office.(6) In this section, contention of substantial mental impairment means a contention by the accused person that the accused person is not liable to be convicted of murder by virtue of section 23A of the Crimes Act 1900.s 151 (previously s 49): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [65].
Division 5 Pleadings on trial
ch 3, pt 3, div 5, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [67].
152 Arraignment on charge of previous conviction
(1) An accused person is not to be arraigned for any previous conviction charged in an indictment unless he or she is convicted of a subsequent offence charged in the indictment.(2) On the accused person’s conviction of the subsequent offence:(a) the accused person is to be arraigned, and(b) the jury is to be charged, andin relation to the previous conviction.(c) the trial is to proceed,(3) In the trial for the subsequent offence, evidence of the previous conviction may not be admitted, except in reply to evidence of character, unless the accused person is convicted of the subsequent offence.ss 152–157 (previously ss 86–91): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [68].
153 Guilty plea to offence not charged
(1) If an accused person:(a) is arraigned on an indictment for an offence, andhe or she may plead “not guilty” of the offence charged in the indictment, but “guilty” of the other offence.(b) can lawfully be convicted on the indictment of some other offence not charged in the indictment,(2) The Crown may elect to accept the plea of “guilty” or may require the trial to proceed on the charge on which the accused person is arraigned.ss 152–157 (previously ss 86–91): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [68].
154 Plea of “not guilty”
If an accused person arraigned on an indictment pleads “not guilty”, the accused person is taken to have put himself or herself on the country for trial, and the court is to order a jury for trial accordingly.ss 152–157 (previously ss 86–91): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [68].
155 Refusal to plead
If an accused person who is arraigned stands mute, or will not answer directly to the indictment, the court may order a plea of “not guilty” to be entered on behalf of the accused person, and the plea so entered has the same effect as if the accused person had actually pleaded “not guilty”.ss 152–157 (previously ss 86–91): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [68].
156 Plea of autrefois convict
(1) In any plea of autrefois convict, or of autrefois acquit, it is sufficient for the accused person to allege that he or she has been lawfully convicted or acquitted, as the case may be, of the offence charged in the indictment, without specifying the time or place of the previous conviction or acquittal.(2) The issue of autrefois convict or autrefois acquit is to be determined by the court without the presence of a jury.ss 152–157 (previously ss 86–91): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [68].
157 Change to guilty plea during trial
(1) If an accused person pleads “guilty” to an offence at any time after having been given into the charge of a jury, and the court accepts the plea, the court is to discharge the jury from giving a verdict in the matter and to find the accused person guilty of the offence.(2) The finding has effect as if it were the verdict of the jury, and the accused person is liable to punishment accordingly.ss 152–157 (previously ss 86–91): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [68].
Division 6 Other provisions relating to trials
ch 3, pt 3, div 6, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [70].
158 Transcript of statement in committal proceedings
A transcript of a record of a statement made by an accused person may, unless the court otherwise orders, be given in evidence at the trial of the accused person if it is proved on oath that the record is a true record of the statement made by the accused person and that the transcript is a correct transcript of the record.s 158: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [70]. Subst 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [4].
159 Opening address to jury by accused person
(1) An accused person or his or her counsel may address the jury immediately after the opening address of the prosecutor.(2) Any such opening address is to be limited generally to an address on:(a) the matters disclosed in the prosecutor’s opening address, including those that are in dispute and those that are not in dispute, and(b) the matters to be raised by the accused person.(3) If the accused person intends to give evidence or to call any witness in support of the defence, the accused person or his or her counsel is entitled to open the case for the defence before calling evidence, whether or not an address has been made to the jury.s 159 (previously s 97): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [71]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [72] [73].
160 Closing address to jury by accused person
(1) An accused person or his or her counsel may address the jury after the close of the evidence for the defence and any evidence in reply by the Crown and after the prosecutor has made a closing address to the jury or declined to make a closing address to the jury.(2) If, in the accused person’s closing address, relevant facts are asserted that are not supported by any evidence that is before the jury, the court may grant leave for the Crown to make a supplementary address to the jury replying to any such assertion.s 160 (previously s 98): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [71]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [72].
161 Summary by Judge
(1) At the end of a criminal trial before a jury, a Judge need not summarise the evidence given in the trial if of the opinion that, in all the circumstances of the trial, a summary is not necessary.(2) This section applies despite any rule of law or practice to the contrary.(3) Nothing in this section affects any aspect of a Judge’s summing up function other than the summary of evidence in a trial.s 161 (previously s 99): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [71].
162 Alternative verdict of attempt on trial for any indictable offence
If, on the trial of a person for any indictable offence, the jury is not satisfied that the person is guilty of the offence, but is satisfied that he or she is guilty of:(a) an attempt to commit the offence, orit may acquit the person of the offence charged and find the person guilty of the attempt or assault, and the person is liable to punishment accordingly.(b) an assault with intent to commit the offence,s 162: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [74].
163 No further prosecution after trial for serious indictable offence where alternative verdict possible
If under any Act a person who is tried for a serious indictable offence may be acquitted of that offence but found guilty of some other offence, the person is not liable to further prosecution on the same facts for that other offence.ss 163 (previously ss 124, 125): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [74].
164 Joint trial in case of perjury
If:(a) a number of persons are severally indicted for perjury or false swearing, andall of those persons may be tried together, at the same time and before the same jury, provided that each person is to have his or her full right of challenge.(b) the statements alleged to be false:(i) are alleged to have been made on the same occasion, before the same court or tribunal and in respect of the same subject-matter, and(ii) are in each case to the same effect, whether in identical terms or not,s 164 (previously s 123): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [75].
Division 7 Certain summary offences may be dealt with
ch 3, pt 3, div 7, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [76].
165 Definitions and application
(1) In this Part:back up offence, in relation to an indictable offence, means an offence:(a) that is:(i) a summary offence, or(ii) an indictable offence that is capable of being dealt with summarily by a Local Court in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 5, and(b) all the elements of which are elements that are necessary to constitute the first indictable offence, and(c) that is to be prosecuted on the same facts as the first indictable offence.court means the Supreme Court or District Court., in relation to an indictable offence, means an offence:(a) that is:(i) a summary offence, or(ii) an indictable offence that is capable of being dealt with summarily by a Local Court in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 5, andbut does not include a back up offence.(b) that arises from substantially the same circumstances as those from which the first indictable offence has arisen,(2) This Part extends to proceedings commenced, but not concluded, before the commencement of this Part.s 165 (previously s 35): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [77]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [78].
166 Certification and transfer of back up and related offences
(1) On committal for trial or sentence of a person charged with an indictable offence:(a) the prosecutor must inform the Magistrate as to whether or not the person has been charged with any back up offence or related offence, and(b) if the person has been charged with any back up offence or related offence:(i) the prosecutor is to produce to the court a certificate specifying each back up offence and related offence with which the person has been charged, and(ii) the proceedings on each back up offence and related offence with which the person has been charged are to be transferred to the court in which the person has been committed to trial or sentence (along with the certificate).(2) This section does not prevent the person referred to in subsection (1) being charged with any offence after committal.(3) Proceedings on a back up offence or related offence that are laid after committal for trial or sentence of a person charged with an indictable offence are to be transferred to the court in which the person has been committed to trial or sentence.s 166 (previously s 36): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [77]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [79] [80]; 2003 No 27, Sch 8 [3].
167 Manner of dealing with back up and related offences
(1) If, following a plea of guilty by an accused person to an indictable offence or at the conclusion of the trial of an accused person for an indictable offence, a court finds the accused person guilty of the offence, the court:(a) is (unless it considers it inappropriate in the circumstances to do so) to order that the charge in relation to each back up offence be dismissed, and(b) is to deal with any back up offence the charge for which is not dismissed under paragraph (a) and any related offence with which the accused person has been charged in accordance with this Part, unless to do so would not be in the interests of justice.(1A) If at the conclusion of the trial of an accused person for an indictable offence, a court finds the accused person not guilty of the offence, the court is to deal with any back up offence or related offence with which the person has been charged in accordance with this Part, unless to do so would not be in the interests of justice.(2) If a court is dealing with an accused person for an indictable offence following the person’s committal for sentence, the court:(a) is (unless it considers it inappropriate in the circumstances to do so) to order that the charge in relation to each back up offence be dismissed, and(b) may deal with any back up offence the charge for which is not dismissed under paragraph (a) and any related offence with which the accused person has been charged in accordance with this Part, unless to do so would not be in the interests of justice.(3) (Repealed)(4) A court may deal with a back up offence or related offence with which an accused person has been charged even though it is not doing so in relation to a back up offence or related offence with which another accused person in the same proceedings is charged.s 167 (previously s 37): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [77]. Am 2003 No 27, Sch 8 [4] [5].
168 Procedures for dealing with certain offences related to indictable offences
(1) The court is to deal with a back up offence or related offence under this Part without a jury and on the basis only of evidence given during the trial of the accused person for the relevant indictable offence in the same proceedings and additional evidence given under this section.(2) The prosecutor or accused person may, with the leave of the court, call additional evidence in relation to the back up offence or related offence.(3) In sentencing or otherwise dealing with a person for a back up offence or related offence, the court has the same functions, and is subject to the same restrictions and procedures, as a Local Court.(4) Rules of court may be made with respect to back up offences or related offences dealt with under this Part.s 168 (previously s 38): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [77]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [81].
169 Remission of certain offences related to indictable offences to Local Courts
(1) A court that is dealing with a back up offence or related offence under this Part may, if it is in the interests of justice to do so, remit the matter to a Local Court.(2) Any back up offence or related offence that is not dealt with by a court in accordance with this Part is to be remitted back to a Local Court.s 169 (previously s 39): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [77].
Chapter 4 Summary procedure
ch 4: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Part 1 Preliminary
ch 4, pt 1 (ss 170, 171): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
170 Application
(1) This Chapter applies to or in respect of proceedings for summary offences, including proceedings for indictable offences that are being dealt with summarily.(2) Parts 2–4 apply to the following proceedings:(a) proceedings before a Local Court,(b) proceedings before a Licensing Court,(c) proceedings before an Industrial Magistrate,(d) proceedings before a Warden’s Court,(e) any other proceedings prescribed by the regulations.(3) Part 5 applies to the following proceedings:(a) proceedings before the Supreme Court,(b) proceedings before the Industrial Relations Commission in Court Session,(c) proceedings before the Land and Environment Court,(d) proceedings before the Court of Coal Mines Regulation,(e) any other proceedings prescribed by the regulations.ch 4, pt 1 (ss 170, 171): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
171 Definitions
In this Chapter:court means a court to which the relevant provision of this Chapter applies and includes (where applicable) an Industrial Magistrate.Judge includes a judge of the Supreme Court, the Land and Environment Court and the Court of Coal Mines Regulation and the President or a judicial member of the Industrial Relations Commission and any other person of a class prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this definition.Magistrate includes a Licensing Magistrate, a Mining Warden, and an Industrial Magistrate and any other person of a class prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this definition.registrar means:(a) in the case of proceedings before a Local Court, the registrar of the Local Court,(b) in the case of proceedings before a Licensing Court, a registrar of the Licensing Court appointed under the Liquor Act 1982,(c) in the case of proceedings before an Industrial Magistrate, the registrar of the Local Court constituted by the Industrial Magistrate,(d) in the case of proceedings before a Warden’s Court, the mining registrar for the relevant mining division under the Mining Act 1992,(e) in the case of proceedings before any other court to which Parts 2–4 apply, the person prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this definition.ch 4, pt 1 (ss 170, 171): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Part 2 Trial procedures in lower courts
ch 4, pt 2: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 1 Commencement of proceedings
ch 4, pt 2, div 1: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
172 Commencement of proceedings by court attendance notice
(1) Proceedings for an offence are to be commenced in a court by the issue and filing of a court attendance notice in accordance with this Division.(2) A court attendance notice may be issued in respect of a person if the person has committed or is suspected of having committed an offence.(3) A court attendance notice may be issued in respect of any offence for which proceedings may be taken in this State, including an offence committed elsewhere than in this State.ss 172–174: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
173 Commencement of proceedings by police officer or public officer
If a police officer or public officer is authorised to commence proceedings for an offence against a person, the officer may commence the proceedings by issuing a court attendance notice and filing the notice in accordance with this Division.ss 172–174: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
174 Commencement of private prosecutions
(1) If a person other than a police officer or public officer is authorised to commence proceedings for an offence against a person, the person may commence the proceedings by issuing a court attendance notice, signed by a registrar, and filing the notice in accordance with this Division.(2) A registrar must not sign a court attendance notice if:(a) the registrar is of the opinion that the notice does not disclose grounds for the proceedings, or(b) the registrar is of the opinion that the notice is not in the form required by or under this Act, or(c) the registrar is of the opinion that a ground for refusal set out in the rules applies to the notice.(3) If a registrar refuses to sign a court attendance notice proposed to be issued by any such person, the question of whether the court attendance notice is to be signed and issued is to be determined by the court on application by the person.ss 172–174: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
175 Form of court attendance notice
(1) A court attendance notice must be in writing and be in the form prescribed by the rules.(2) The rules may prescribe one or more forms of court attendance notice.(3) A court attendance notice must do the following:(a) describe the offence,(b) briefly state the particulars of the alleged offence,(c) contain the name of the prosecutor,(d) require the accused person to appear before the court at a specified date, time and place, unless a warrant is issued for the arrest of the person or the person is refused bail,(e) state, unless a warrant is issued for the arrest of the person or the person is refused bail, that failure to appear may result in the arrest of the person or in the matter being dealt with in the absence of the person.(4) The rules may prescribe additional matters to be included in court attendance notices.(5) A court attendance notice may describe an offence, act or other thing in a way that is sufficient under this Act for the purposes of an indictment or an averment in an indictment.s 175: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [5].
176 (Repealed)
s 176: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Rep 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [2].
177 Service of court attendance notices
(1) A court attendance notice issued by a police officer must be served by a police officer in accordance with the rules.(2) A court attendance notice issued by a public officer must be served by a police officer, public officer or other person of a class prescribed by the rules, in accordance with the rules.(3) A copy of a court attendance notice issued by a person other than a police officer or a public officer must be served by a person of a class prescribed by the rules in accordance with the rules.(4) A copy of a court attendance notice must, except with the leave of a Magistrate or a registrar of the court, be filed in a court not later than 7 days after it is served and must contain an endorsement as to service.(5) Leave may be granted under subsection (4) after the expiry of the 7-day period referred to in that subsection.s 177: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2004 No 68, Sch 6 [3] [4].
178 When proceedings commence
(1) All proceedings are taken to have commenced on the date on which a court attendance notice is filed in the registry of a relevant court in accordance with this Division.(2) A court attendance notice may be filed even though it has not been served if:(a) a warrant is sought under this Part for the arrest of the accused person, or(b) the notice is not able to be served, despite reasonable attempts to do so, or(c) the registrar gives leave to do so after forming the opinion that it is not reasonable in the circumstances of the case to require prior service of the notice.(3) Nothing in this section affects any other Act or law under which proceedings are taken to have been commenced on another date.ss 178–180: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
179 Time limit for commencement of summary proceedings
(1) Proceedings for a summary offence must be commenced not later than 6 months from when the offence was alleged to have been committed.(2) This section does not apply:(a) to an offence for which an Act or law specifies another period within which proceedings must be commenced, or(b) to an indictable offence that is being dealt with summarily.ss 178–180: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
180 Relationship to other law or practice
(1) Nothing in this Part affects any law or practice relating to indictments presented or filed in the Supreme Court or the District Court by the Attorney General or the Director of Public Prosecutions.(2) If an Act or a statutory rule provides for proceedings for an offence which may be taken in a court to be commenced otherwise than by issuing a court attendance notice, the proceedings may be commenced in accordance with this Act.(3) Nothing in this Part affects the operation of the provisions of Part 15A of the Crimes Act 1900 relating to the commencement of proceedings under that Part.ss 178–180: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
181 Attendance of accused person at proceedings
(1) A person who issues a court attendance notice may, at any time after the notice is issued and before the date on which the accused person is required to first attend at the court for the hearing of proceedings, apply for a warrant to arrest the accused person.(2) An authorised officer may, when a court attendance notice is issued by the registrar, or filed in the court, or at any time after then and before the matter is first before a court, issue a warrant to arrest the accused person if the authorised officer is satisfied there are substantial reasons to do so and that it is in the interests of justice to do so.(3) The rules may make provision for or with respect to matters that may be taken into account by an authorised officer in determining whether to issue a warrant under this section.(3A) If an accused person is not present at the day, time and place set down for the hearing of proceedings (including any day to which proceedings are adjourned), or absconds from the proceedings, the Magistrate may issue a warrant to arrest the accused person if the Magistrate is satisfied there are substantial reasons to do so and that it is in the interests of justice to do so.(4) A Magistrate or an authorised officer before whom an accused person is brought on arrest on a warrant issued under this section may, if bail is not dispensed with or granted, order the issue of a warrant:(a) committing the accused person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) ordering the accused person to be brought before a court at the date, time and place specified in the order.(5) The Magistrate or authorised officer must give notice of the date, time and place set to the prosecutor. Part 4 of this Chapter sets out procedures for arrest warrants and warrants of commitment generally.s 181: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2002 No 130, Sch 6 [2].
Division 2 Pre-trial procedures
ch 4, pt 2, div 2: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
182 Written pleas
(1) An accused person served with a court attendance notice may lodge with the registrar a notice in writing that the accused person will plead guilty or not guilty to the offence or offences the subject of the court attendance notice concerned.(2) The notice is to be in the form prescribed by the rules and, in the case of a guilty plea, may be accompanied by additional written material containing matters in mitigation of the offence.(3) An accused person who lodges a notice under this section with the registrar not later than 7 days before the date on which the person is required to first attend before a Local Court is not required to attend the court on that date.(4) This section does not apply to an accused person who has been granted or refused bail or in relation to whom bail has been dispensed with.s 182: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [4]; 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [1].
183 Brief of evidence to be served on accused person where not guilty plea
(1) If an accused person pleads not guilty to an offence, the prosecutor must, subject to section 187, serve or cause to be served on the accused person a copy of the brief of evidence relating to the offence.(2) The brief of evidence is to consist of documents regarding the evidence that the prosecutor intends to adduce in order to prove the commission of the offence and is to include:(a) written statements taken from the persons the prosecutor intends to call to give evidence in proceedings for the offence, and(b) copies of any document or any other thing, identified in such a written statement as a proposed exhibit.(3) The copy of the brief of evidence is to be served at least 14 days before the hearing of the evidence for the prosecution.(4) The Magistrate may set a later date for service with the consent of the accused person or if of the opinion that the circumstances of the case require it.s 183: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [6].
184 Exhibits
(1) Despite section 183, the prosecutor is not required to include a copy of a proposed exhibit identified in the brief of evidence if it is impossible or impractical to copy the exhibit.(2) However, in that case the prosecutor is:(a) to serve on the accused person a notice specifying a reasonable time and place at which the proposed exhibit may be inspected, and(b) to allow the accused person a reasonable opportunity to inspect each proposed exhibit referred to in the notice.ss 184–186: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
185 Recording of interviews with children
(1) If the prosecutor intends to call a child to give evidence in proceedings, the brief of evidence may include a transcript of a recording made by an investigating official of an interview with the child, during which the child was questioned by the investigating official in connection with the investigation of the commission or possible commission of the offence (as referred to in the Evidence (Children) Act 1997).(2) A copy of the transcript of the recording must be certified by an investigating official as an accurate transcript of the recording and served on the accused person in accordance with section 183.(3) A brief of evidence that includes a transcript of a recording of an interview with a child is not required also to include a written statement from the child concerned.(4) The transcript of the recording is taken, for the purposes of this Division, to be a written statement taken from the child. Accordingly, any document or other thing identified in the transcript as a proposed exhibit forms part of the brief of evidence.(5) Nothing in this Division requires the prosecutor to serve on the accused person a copy of the actual recording made by an investigating official of an interview with the child.(6) This section does not affect section 12 (2) of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.(7) In this section:investigating official has the same meaning as in the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.Note—The Evidence (Children) Act 1997 allows children to give evidence of a previous representation in the form of a recording made by an investigating official of an interview with the child. Section 12 (2) of that Act provides that such evidence is not to be admitted unless the accused person and his or her lawyer have been given a reasonable opportunity to listen to or view the recording.ss 184–186: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
186 Form of copy of brief of evidence
(1) The copy of the brief of evidence is to comply with any requirement applicable to it prescribed by the rules.(2) A written statement contained in the brief of evidence is to comply with this Act and any requirement applicable to it prescribed by the rules.ss 184–186: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
187 When brief of evidence need not be served
(1) The court may order that all or part of the copy of the brief of evidence need not be served if it is satisfied:(a) that there are compelling reasons for not requiring service, or(b) that it could not reasonably be served on the accused person.(2) The court may make an order under this section on its own initiative or on the application of any party.(3) An order may be made subject to any conditions that the court thinks fit.(4) Without limiting any other power to adjourn proceedings, the court may grant one or more adjournments, if it appears to it to be just and reasonable to do so, if the copy of the brief of evidence is not served in accordance with this Division. For that purpose, the court may extend the time for service of the brief of evidence.(5) A prosecutor is not required to serve a brief of evidence in proceedings for an offence of a kind, or proceedings of a kind, prescribed by the regulations.s 187: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [7].
188 Evidence not to be admitted
(1) The court must refuse to admit evidence sought to be adduced by the prosecutor in respect of an offence if, in relation to that evidence, this Division or any rules made under this Division have not been complied with by the prosecutor.(2) The court may, and on the application of or with the consent of the accused person must, dispense with the requirements of subsection (1) on such terms and conditions as appear just and reasonable.s 188: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
189 False statements
(1) A person who made a written statement tendered in evidence in proceedings is guilty of an offence if the statement contains any matter that, at the time the statement was made, the person knew to be false, or did not believe to be true, in any material respect.Maximum penalty:(a) If the offence is dealt with summarily, 20 penalty units or imprisonment for 12 months, or both.(b) If the offence is dealt with on indictment, 50 penalty units or imprisonment for 5 years, or both.(2) Chapter 5 (which relates to the summary disposal of certain indictable offences unless an election is made to proceed on indictment) applies to and in respect of an offence under this section.s 189: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 3 Hearings
ch 4, pt 2, div 3: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
190 Time for hearing
(1) On the first return date for a court attendance notice in any summary proceedings, or at such later time as the court determines, the court must set the date, time and place for hearing and determining the matter.(2) The court must notify the accused person of the date, time and place, if the accused person is not present.(3) However, if the accused person is not present at the first return date and has not lodged a written plea of not guilty in accordance with section 182, the court may proceed to hear the matter on that day at its discretion.Note—The powers of a court to adjourn proceedings generally are set out in section 40.ss 190–193: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
191 Proceedings to be open to public
(1) Summary proceedings before a court are to be heard in open court.(2) This section is subject to the provisions of any other Act or law.ss 190–193: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
192 Procedures where both parties present
(1) If both the accused person and the prosecutor are present at the day, time and place set for the hearing and determination of proceedings for an offence (including a day to which the hearing has been adjourned) the court must proceed to hear and determine the matter.(2) The court must state the substance of the offence to the accused person and ask the accused person if the accused person pleads guilty or not guilty.(3) Instead of hearing and determining the matter, the court may, if it thinks that the matter should not proceed on the specified day, adjourn the hearing to another day for mention or hearing.ss 190–193: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
193 Procedure if offence admitted
(1) If the accused person pleads guilty, and does not show sufficient cause why he or she should not be convicted or not have an order made against him or her, the court must convict the accused person or make the order accordingly.(2) This section does not apply if the court does not accept the accused person’s guilty plea.ss 190–193: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
194 Procedure if offence not admitted
(1) If the accused person pleads not guilty or fails or refuses to make a plea or the court does not accept the accused person’s guilty plea, the court must proceed to hear and determine the matter.(2) The court must hear the prosecutor, any witnesses and other evidence of the prosecutor and must hear the accused person and any witnesses and other evidence of the accused person.s 194: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [5].
195 How evidence is taken
(1) A prosecutor may give evidence and may examine and cross-examine the witnesses giving evidence for the prosecution or the accused person, respectively.(2) An accused person may make full answer and defence. An accused person may give evidence and may examine and cross-examine the witnesses giving evidence for the accused person or the prosecution, respectively.(3) If the accused person gives any evidence or examines any witness as to any matter other than as to the witness’s general character, the prosecutor may call and examine witnesses in reply.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
196 Procedure if accused person not present
(1) If the accused person is not present at the day, time and place set for the hearing and determination of the matter (including a day to which the hearing has been adjourned), the court may proceed to hear and determine the matter in the absence of the accused person in accordance with this Division.(2) If:(a) a penalty notice enforcement order is annulled under Division 5 of Part 3 of the Fines Act 1996 and the order (together with any annexure) is taken to be a court attendance notice in relation to the offence, and(b) the accused person has been given notice of the hearing of the matter of the court attendance notice, andthe court may proceed to hear and determine the matter in the absence of the accused person in accordance with this Division.(c) the accused person does not appear on the day and at the time and place specified by the court attendance notice,(3) The court may not proceed to hear and determine the matter unless it is satisfied that the accused person had reasonable notice of the first return date or the date, time and place of the hearing.(4) If an offence is an indictable offence that may be dealt with summarily only if the accused person consents, the absence of the accused person is taken to be consent to the offence being dealt with summarily and the offence may be dealt with in accordance with this Division.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
197 Adjournment when accused person not present
(1) Instead of hearing and determining a matter in the absence of the accused person, the court may, if it thinks that the matter should not proceed on the specified day or without the accused person, adjourn the hearing to another day for mention or for hearing.(2) If a warrant is issued for the arrest of the accused person, the Magistrate or authorised officer before whom the accused person is brought after arrest may specify the date, time and place to which the proceedings are adjourned.Note—The court may at any time issue a warrant for the arrest of an absent accused person (see Division 2 of Part 4 which sets out procedures for warrants).ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
198 Absent accused person taken to have pleaded not guilty
An accused person in proceedings who is absent from the proceedings and who has not lodged a written plea of guilty in accordance with section 182 is taken to have pleaded not guilty.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
199 Material to be considered when matter determined in absence of accused person
(1) The court may determine proceedings heard in the absence of the accused person on the basis of the court attendance notice without hearing the prosecutor’s witnesses or any other additional evidence of the prosecutor, if it is of the opinion that the matters set out in the court attendance notice are sufficient to establish the offence.(2) Before determining the matter, the court must consider any written material given to the court by the prosecutor, or lodged by the accused person under section 182.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
200 When court may require prosecution to provide additional evidence
(1) The court may, in proceedings heard in the absence of the accused person, require the prosecution to provide additional evidence if it is of the opinion that the matters set out in the court attendance notice are not sufficient to establish the offence.(2) The additional evidence is not admissible unless:(a) it is in the form of written statements that comply with Division 3 of Part 2 of Chapter 3, and(b) a copy of any such statement has been given to the accused person a reasonable time before consideration of the additional evidence by the court.(3) However, the court may require evidence to be given orally if it is not practicable to comply with subsection (2) or if the court thinks it necessary in the particular case.(4) The court must reject a written statement, or any part of a written statement, tendered in summary proceedings if the statement or part is inadmissible because of this section.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
201 Procedure if prosecutor or both parties not present
(1) If the prosecutor is not present, or both the prosecutor and the accused person are not present, at the day, time and place set for the hearing and determination of the matter (including a day to which the hearing has been adjourned) the court must dismiss the information.(2) Despite subsection (1), the court may, if it thinks fit, instead of dismissing the information, adjourn the hearing to a specified day, time and place for mention or hearing.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
202 Determination by court
(1) The court must determine summary proceedings after hearing the accused person, prosecutor, witnesses and evidence in accordance with this Act.(2) The court may determine the matter by convicting the accused person or making an order as to the accused person, or by dismissing the matter.(3) In the case of a matter heard in the absence of the accused person, the court may adjourn the proceedings to enable the accused person to appear or be brought before the court for sentencing.Note—Section 25 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 provides for the issue of warrants of arrest for absent defendants so that they may be brought before the Court for sentencing. Section 62 of that Act also provides for the issue of warrants of commitment after sentencing.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
203 Additional powers to adjourn summary proceedings
A court may adjourn summary proceedings before or at any stage of proceedings to enable the matter to be the subject of a mediation session under the Community Justice Centres Act 1983.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
204 Record of conviction or order to be made
(1) A court must make a record of any conviction or order made against the accused person in summary proceedings when the accused person is convicted or the order is made.(2) The court must give the accused person a copy of the record on request by the accused person.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
205 Order dismissing matter to be made
(1) A court may make an order of dismissal and give the accused person a certificate certifying that a matter has been dismissed if it decides to dismiss the matter.(2) A court must make an order of dismissal and give the accused person a certificate certifying that a matter has been dismissed if requested to do so by an accused person against whom a matter has been dismissed or by the prosecutor.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
206 Effect of certificate that matter has been dismissed
A certificate certifying that a matter has been dismissed, if produced and without any further proofs being required, prevents any later proceedings in any court for the same matter against the same person.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
207 Power to set aside conviction or order before sentence
(1) An accused person may, at any time after conviction or an order has been made against the accused person and before the summary proceedings are finally disposed of, apply to the court to change the accused person’s plea from guilty to not guilty and to have the conviction or order set aside.(2) The court may set aside the conviction or order made against the accused person and proceed to determine the matter on the basis of the plea of not guilty.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
208 Dismissal of matter if matter withdrawn
If a matter is withdrawn by the prosecutor, the matter is taken to be dismissed and the accused person is taken to be discharged in relation to the offences concerned.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
209 Application of section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999
The provisions of section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 apply to any proceedings heard in the absence of the accused person under this Part as if the accused person had been charged before the court with the offence to which the proceedings relate.ss 195–209: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
210 Penalties applying to traffic offences committed by children
(1) A Local Court may deal with a child found guilty of a traffic offence in accordance with Division 4 of Part 3 of the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987.(2) In so dealing with a child, the Local Court has and may exercise the functions of the Children’s Court under that Division as if the Local Court were the Children’s Court and the offence were an offence to which the Division applies.(3) A Local Court must not impose a sentence of imprisonment on a child found guilty of a traffic offence.(4) In this section:child means a person who was under 18 years when the traffic offence was committed and under 21 years when summary proceedings for the offence were commenced,traffic offence means an offence arising under a provision of:(a) the road transport legislation within the meaning of the Road Transport (General) Act 2005, or(b) the Roads Act 1993, or(c) the Motor Vehicles (Third Party Insurance) Act 1942, orin respect of the use, standing or parking of a motor vehicle within the meaning of that provision.(d) the Recreation Vehicles Act 1983,Note—Division 4 of Part 3 of the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987 sets out the penalties which the Children’s Court may impose on a child who has been found guilty of a summary offence.s 210: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2005 No 11, Sch 3.7.
Division 4 Costs
ch 4, pt 2, div 4: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
211 Definition
In this Part:professional costs means costs (other than court costs) relating to professional expenses and disbursements (including witnesses’ expenses) in respect of proceedings before a court.s 211: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
212 When costs may be awarded
(1) A court may award costs in criminal proceedings only in accordance with this Act.(2) This Act does not affect the payment of costs under the Costs in Criminal Cases Act 1967.Note—The Costs in Criminal Cases Act 1967 contains procedures by which an accused person may obtain payment of costs from Government funds after acquittal or discharge or the quashing of a conviction.s 212: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
213 When professional costs may be awarded to accused persons
(1) A court may at the end of summary proceedings order that the prosecutor pay professional costs to the registrar of the court, for payment to the accused person, if the matter is dismissed or withdrawn.(2) The amount of professional costs is to be the amount that the Magistrate considers to be just and reasonable.(3) Without limiting the operation of subsection (1), a court may order that the prosecutor in summary proceedings pay professional costs if the matter is dismissed because:(a) the prosecutor fails to appear or both the prosecutor and the accused person fail to appear, or(b) the matter is withdrawn or the proceedings are for any reason invalid.(4) (Repealed)(5) The order must specify the amount of professional costs payable.s 213: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [2] [3].
214 Limit on award of professional costs to accused person against prosecutor acting in public capacity
(1) Professional costs are not to be awarded in favour of an accused person in summary proceedings unless the court is satisfied as to any one or more of the following:(a) that the investigation into the alleged offence was conducted in an unreasonable or improper manner,(b) that the proceedings were initiated without reasonable cause or in bad faith or were conducted by the prosecutor in an improper manner,(c) that the prosecutor unreasonably failed to investigate (or to investigate properly) any relevant matter of which it was aware or ought reasonably to have been aware and which suggested either that the accused person might not be guilty or that, for any other reason, the proceedings should not have been brought,(d) that, because of other exceptional circumstances relating to the conduct of the proceedings by the prosecutor, it is just and reasonable to award professional costs.(2) This section does not apply to the awarding of costs against a prosecutor acting in a private capacity.(3) An officer of an approved charitable organisation under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 is taken not to be acting in a private capacity if the officer acts as the prosecutor in any proceedings under that Act.s 214: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [4].
215 When costs may be awarded to prosecutor
(1) A court may at the end of summary proceedings order that the accused person pay the following costs to the registrar of the court, for payment to the prosecutor, if the accused person is convicted or an order is made against the accused person:(a) such professional costs as the court considers just and reasonable,(b) court costs, to be paid to the registrar for payment to the prosecutor if the costs have been paid by the prosecutor or, if they have not been so paid, to be paid to the registrar of the court.(1A) The court may not order the accused person to pay professional costs referred to in subsection (1) (a) if the conviction or order concerned relates to an offence:(a) for which a penalty notice, within the meaning of section 20 of the Fines Act 1996, has been issued, and(b) in respect of which the person has elected to have the matter dealt with by a court, and(c) in respect of which the person has lodged a written plea of guilty, in accordance with section 182, not later than 7 days before the date on which the person is required to first attend before the court.(1B) Subsection (1A) does not apply in relation to proceedings for an offence against the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000, the regulations under that Act or the associated occupational health and safety legislation within the meaning of that Act.(2) The amount that may be awarded under subsection (1) (b) for court costs is:(a) the filing fee for a court attendance notice, or(b) such other amount as the court considers to be just and reasonable in the circumstances of the case.(3) The order must specify the amount of costs payable.(4) For the purposes of this section, an accused person is taken to have been convicted if an order is made under section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999. The order for costs may be in the order under that section.(5) This section applies to all summary proceedings, including orders made in proceedings conducted in the absence of the accused person.s 215: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [5].
216 Costs on adjournment
(1) A court may in any summary proceedings, at its discretion or on the application of a party, order that one party pay costs if the matter is adjourned.(2) An order may be made only if the court is satisfied that the other party has incurred additional costs because of the unreasonable conduct or delays of the party against whom the order is made.(3) The order must specify the amount of costs payable or may provide for the determination of the amount at the end of the proceedings.(4) An order may be made whatever the result of the proceedings.s 216: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
217 Enforcement of costs orders
An order made by a court under this Division for the payment of costs is taken to be a fine within the meaning of the Fines Act 1996.s 217: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
218 Public officers and police officers not personally liable for costs
(1) A public officer or a police officer is entitled to be indemnified by the State for any costs awarded against the officer personally as the prosecutor in any criminal proceedings in a court in which the officer is acting in his or her capacity as a public officer or a police officer.(2) In this section:public officer does not include a councillor or an employee of a council or any other person prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section.s 218: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2004 No 68, Sch 6 [5].
Division 5 Rules
ch 4, pt 2, div 5 (s 219): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
219 Rules
(1) The Rule Committee may make rules for or with respect to the following matters:(a) service of court attendance notices, briefs of evidence and other documents,(b) endorsement of service of court attendance notices and other documents,(c) procedures for adjourning, relisting and notifying accused persons about alternative offences,(d) additional requirements for the form of warrants,(e) the circumstances in which a person may obtain copies of documents relating to criminal proceedings,(f) assessment of costs on adjournment,(g) the form of submissions to a court about disputed costs,(h) forms to be used under this Act.(2) A court may in proceedings for a summary offence, if of the opinion that it is in the interests of justice to do so, dispense with or vary a requirement of the rules.(3) For the purposes of subsection (2), a Local Court may make directions as to the conduct of proceedings.(4) The power conferred by subsection (2) does not extend to any rule declared by the rules to be mandatory.ch 4, pt 2, div 5 (s 219): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Part 3 Attendance of witnesses and production of evidence in lower courts
ch 4, pt 3: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
220 Application
In addition to any other proceedings to which this Part applies, this Part applies to any proceedings prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section.s 220: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
221 Definitions
In this Part:party means a prosecutor or an accused person in, or any other party to, proceedings to which this Part applies.person named in a subpoena means the person to whom the subpoena is addressed.subpoena includes any of the following:(a) a subpoena to give evidence,(b) a subpoena for production,(c) a subpoena both to give evidence and for production.subpoena both to give evidence and for production means a written order requiring the person named to attend as directed by the order as a witness to give evidence and to produce a document or thing.subpoena for production means a written order requiring the person named to attend as directed by the order and produce a document or thing.subpoena to give evidence means a written order requiring the person named to attend as directed by the order as a witness to give evidence.s 221: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
222 Issue of subpoenas
(1) A registrar, if requested to do so by a party to proceedings, is, subject to and in accordance with the rules, to issue to the person named any of the following subpoenas:(a) a subpoena to give evidence,(b) a subpoena for production,(c) a subpoena both to give evidence and for production.(2) If the prosecutor in proceedings is a public officer or a police officer, the officer may, subject to and in accordance with the rules, issue any such subpoena. The subpoena is to be filed in accordance with the rules.(3) A subpoena to give evidence and a subpoena for production may be issued to the same person in the same proceedings.(4) A party may require a subpoena for production to be returnable:(a) on any day on which the proceedings are listed before a court, or any day not more than 21 days before any such day, or(b) with the leave of the court or a registrar, on any other day.s 222: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2004 No 68, Sch 6 [6].
223 Time for service of subpoenas
(1) A subpoena must be served within a reasonable time and at least 5 days before the last day on which it must be complied with.(2) A registrar may, on application by the party concerned, permit a subpoena to be served later than the time permitted by subsection (1). The later time must be endorsed on the subpoena by the registrar.(3) A subpoena may be served by delivering a copy of the subpoena to the person named or in any other manner prescribed by the rules.s 223: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
224 Conduct money
Unless a court otherwise orders, a subpoena issued at the request of a party other than a prosecutor who is a public officer or a police officer is not to require the person named to attend or produce any document or thing on any day on which his or her attendance is required unless an amount prescribed by the rules for the expenses of complying with the subpoena in relation to that day is paid or tendered to the person at the time of service of the subpoena or not later than a reasonable time before that day.s 224: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2004 No 68, Sch 6 [7].
225 Limits on obligations under subpoenas
The person named is not required to produce any document or thing if:(a) it is not specified or sufficiently described in the subpoena, or(b) the person named would not be required to produce the document or thing on a subpoena for production in the Supreme Court.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
226 Production by non-party
(1) If the person named in a subpoena for production is not a party to the proceedings, the subpoena is, unless a court otherwise orders, to permit the person to produce the document or thing to the court specified in the subpoena not later than the day before the first day on which the person’s attendance is required, instead of attending and producing the document or thing as required by the subpoena.(2) The rules may make provision for or with respect to the production of documents or things produced to a court under subsection (1), and the return of the document or thing, and any related matters.(3) Nothing in this Part affects the operation of Division 1 of Part 4.6 of the Evidence Act 1995 (Requests to produce documents or call witnesses).ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
227 Subpoena may be set aside
(1) A court may, on application by the person named in a subpoena, set aside the subpoena wholly or in part.(2) Notice of an application under this section is to be filed and served as prescribed by the rules on the party on whose request, or by whom, the subpoena was issued.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
228 Inspection of subpoenaed documents and things
(1) A party may, if a court so orders:(a) inspect documents or things produced in compliance with a subpoena, and(b) take copies of any documents so inspected.(2) Any such order may be made on such terms and conditions as the court thinks fit.(3) A registrar may exercise the function of a court to make an order under this section unless:(a) the court otherwise orders, or(b) a party, the person named in the subpoena or a person claiming privilege in respect of the document has notified the court in the manner prescribed by the rules that the party or person objects to the making of an order under this section.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
229 Action that may be taken if person does not comply with subpoena
(1) A party who requested, or issued, a subpoena may apply to the court for the issue of a warrant under Part 4 for the arrest of the person named if the person named has not complied with the subpoena.(2) The court may issue the warrant if satisfied that:(a) the person named has not complied with the subpoena, and(b) the requirements of this Part for subpoenas were complied with and no just or reasonable excuse has been offered for the failure to comply.(3) A Magistrate or an authorised officer before whom a person is brought on arrest on a warrant issued under this section may, if bail is not dispensed with or granted, issue a warrant:(a) committing the person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) ordering the person to be brought before a court at the date, time and place specified in the order.(4) The Magistrate or authorised officer must give notice of the date, time and place set to the party who issued or requested the subpoena.Note—Division 2 of Part 4 sets out procedures for arrest warrants generally.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
230 Application of Bail Act 1978
The Bail Act 1978 applies to a person who is brought before a court after having been arrested under a warrant referred to in section 229 in the same way as it applies to an accused person, and for that purpose, bail may be granted to the person with respect to the period between:(a) the person’s being brought before a court under a warrant for the purpose of being examined as a witness or producing a document or thing, and(b) the person’s being examined as a witness or producing the document or thing.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
231 Action that may be taken if witness refuses to give evidence
(1) This section applies to a person who:(a) appears before a court on a subpoena, or(b) appears before a court on bail after being arrested under a warrant after failing to comply with a subpoena, orto give evidence, or produce any document or thing, or both.(c) is brought before a court under a warrant of commitment after being so arrested,(2) The court may order that a warrant be issued for the committal of a person to whom this section applies to a correctional centre for a period not exceeding 7 days if the person refuses, without offering any just cause or reasonable excuse:(a) to be examined on oath, or(b) to take an oath, or(c) to answer, after having taken an oath, any questions that are put to the person concerning the subject-matter of the proceedings, or(d) to produce the document or thing.Note—Division 3 of Part 4 sets out procedures for warrants of commitment generally.(3) However, the person is to be released before the expiration of those 7 days if the person:(a) consents to be examined on oath and to answer questions concerning the subject-matter of the proceedings, or(b) produces the document or thing.(4) This Part applies in relation to a subpoena to the exclusion of section 194 (Witnesses failing to attend proceedings) of the Evidence Act 1995.(5) In this section, a reference to a person who appears before a court on bail after being arrested under a warrant after failing to comply with a subpoena includes a reference to a person in respect of whom the requirement for bail has been dispensed with after being so apprehended.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
232 Rules relating to subpoenas
The Rule Committee may make rules for or with respect to the following matters:(a) the form of subpoenas,(b) the production of documents or things to the registrar and the inspection of the documents or things,(c) the return of subpoenas to parties,(d) conduct money,(e) hearing of objections to subpoenas.ss 225–232: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Part 4 Warrants
ch 4, pt 4: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 1 Preliminary
ch 4, pt 4, div 1 (ss 233, 234): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
233 Application
In addition to warrants issued in, or in connection with, proceedings to which this Part applies because of section 170, this Part applies to warrants that may be issued under Part 3.ch 4, pt 4, div 1 (ss 233, 234): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
234 Definition
In this Part:named person means the person named in a warrant.ch 4, pt 4, div 1 (ss 233, 234): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 2 Arrest warrants
ch 4, pt 4, div 2: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
235 When arrest warrants may be issued for accused persons
A warrant to arrest a person may be issued on any day of the week.s 235: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
236 Form of arrest warrant
(1) A warrant to arrest a person must be in the form prescribed by the rules.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the warrant must be directed to a person permitted by this Division to execute the warrant and must do the following things:(a) name or describe the person to be arrested,(b) briefly state the subject-matter of the court attendance notice or reason for the arrest,(c) order that the person be arrested and brought before the Magistrate or authorised officer to be dealt with according to law or to give evidence or produce documents or things, as appropriate.(3) A warrant to arrest a person must be signed by the person issuing it and sealed with the seal of the court to which the person issuing it is attached.(4) However, an authorised officer may sign a warrant issued under this Act if a Magistrate has directed in writing that the warrant be issued.s 236: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [6].
237 Duration of arrest warrants
(1) A warrant to arrest an accused person need not be returnable at any particular time. If it is not, the warrant continues in force until it is carried out.(2) A warrant to arrest a witness must be returnable at a stated date, time and place.(3) The warrant to arrest a witness may be returned and cancelled, and a further warrant may be obtained, if the witness is not arrested before the warrant must be returned.ss 237–239: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
238 Persons who may execute arrest warrant
(1) A warrant to arrest a person must be directed to:(a) a named police officer, or(b) a person authorised by law to execute a warrant to arrest, or(c) the senior police officer of the area where the court is located, or(d) the senior police officer and all other police officers, or(e) generally all police officers.(2) A warrant to arrest a person may be carried out by arresting the accused or witness at any place in New South Wales.ss 237–239: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
239 Procedure after arrest
A person who is arrested under a warrant must be brought before a Magistrate or an authorised officer as soon as practicable.ss 237–239: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
240 Revocation of warrants
(1) Any warrant to arrest a person may be revoked by a Magistrate or authorised officer if:(a) the party who requested the warrant applies to the Magistrate or authorised officer to revoke the warrant, or(b) the Magistrate or authorised officer is of the opinion that it is appropriate to do so.(2) A Magistrate or an authorised officer may revoke a warrant even though it was issued by another Magistrate or authorised officer. An authorised officer may not revoke a warrant issued by a Magistrate.s 240: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [8]–[10].
Division 3 Warrants of commitment
ch 4, pt 4, div 3 (ss 241–244): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
241 Power to commit person to correctional centre subject to Bail Act 1978
A power to issue a warrant to commit a person to a correctional centre or other place under this Act is subject to the provisions of the Bail Act 1978.Note—The Bail Act 1978 sets out the circumstances when bail must or may be granted or may be dispensed with by a Magistrate.ch 4, pt 4, div 3 (ss 241–244): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
242 Form of warrants of commitment
(1) A warrant to commit a person must be in the form prescribed by the rules.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the warrant must be directed to a person permitted by the rules to execute the warrant and must do the following things:(a) name or describe the person to be committed,(b) direct and authorise the person to take and safely convey the named person to the correctional centre or other place,(c) direct the person to deliver the named person to the officer in charge of the place,(d) direct and authorise the officer in charge of the place to receive the named person in custody and to keep the named person in custody for the period specified, or in the circumstances specified, or until the named person is otherwise lawfully released from custody.(3) A warrant to commit a witness to a correctional centre, lock-up or a place of security must not require the witness to be kept in custody for more than 7 days.(4) An authorised officer may sign a warrant to commit a person if a Magistrate has directed in writing that the warrant be issued.ch 4, pt 4, div 3 (ss 241–244): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
243 Procedure for taking person to correctional centre or other place
(1) The person to whom a warrant issued under this Division to commit a person to a correctional centre or other place is directed must take the named person to the correctional centre or other place specified in the warrant and deliver the named person to the person in charge of the place.(2) The person executing the warrant must obtain a receipt for the delivery of the named person setting out the condition of the named person when delivered into the custody of the person in charge.ch 4, pt 4, div 3 (ss 241–244): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
244 Defects in warrants of commitment
A warrant to commit an accused person to a correctional centre or other place may not be held void because of any defect in the warrant if the warrant states that:(a) the accused person has been convicted or ordered to do or abstain from doing any act or thing required to be done or not done, and(b) there is a good and valid conviction or order to sustain the warrant.ch 4, pt 4, div 3 (ss 241–244): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Part 5 Summary jurisdiction of Supreme Court and other higher courts
ch 4, pt 5: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 1 Jurisdiction
ch 4, pt 5, div 1: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
245 Summary jurisdiction of Supreme Court
(1) If, under any Act, proceedings may be taken before the Supreme Court in its summary jurisdiction, the Court has jurisdiction to hear and determine those proceedings in a summary manner.(2) The summary jurisdiction conferred on the Supreme Court by subsection (1), or under any other Act on any other court to which this Part applies, is to be exercised by a Judge sitting alone, and not otherwise.Note—Section 170 sets out the courts to which this Part applies.ch 4, pt 5, div 2 (ss 245–247): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 2 Appearance of accused persons
ch 4, pt 5, div 2 (ss 245–247): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
246 Orders for appearance or apprehension of accused persons
(1) A prosecutor may apply for an order:(a) that a person alleged in the application to have committed an offence that may be dealt with summarily by the court must appear at a time and place specified in the order to answer to the offence charged in the order, or(b) for the apprehension of any such person for the purpose of being brought before a Judge to answer to the offence charged in the order.(2) The application must be in accordance with the rules.(3) The order may be made in the absence of one or both parties.(4) An order for the apprehension of a person may be made whether or not an order has been made under subsection (1) (a).(5) An order for the apprehension of a person:(a) must be addressed to all police officers, and(b) may be addressed to any other person specified in the order, and(c) may be executed by any police officer or by any person to whom it is addressed at any place at which, had the offence specified in the order been committed at that place, that offence would be triable in the court.(6) A Judge before whom a person apprehended under an order made under this section is brought may, if bail is not dispensed with or granted, issue a warrant:(a) committing the person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) ordering the person to be brought before a court at the date, time and place specified in the order.ch 4, pt 5, div 2 (ss 245–247): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
247 Notices to be given to prosecutor
(1) The registrar must, as soon as practicable after the making of any order under section 246, cause notice of the order to be given to the prosecutor.(2) The registrar must, as soon as practicable after a notice is given or sent (as referred to in section 34 of the Bail Act 1978) to a person referred to in section 246, cause a copy of the notice to be given to the prosecutor.ch 4, pt 5, div 2 (ss 245–247): Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 3 Trial procedure
ch 4, pt 5, div 3: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
248 Pre-trial procedure
A Judge is not required to proceed to hear and determine a case if any pre-trial procedures required by the rules to be completed before the trial of the case commences have not been completed.s 248: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
249 Procedure where prosecutor does not, but accused person does, appear
(1) If the prosecutor does not appear on the day and at the time and place set by an order under Division 2 (or on a day to which a hearing has been adjourned), but the accused person attends, the court, if satisfied that the prosecutor was notified of the day, time and place:(a) must discharge the accused person as to the offence the subject of the proceedings, with or without costs, or(b) if the court thinks it appropriate, adjourn the hearing to a specified time and place.(2) Subsection (1) does not empower the court to order costs to be paid in proceedings for an offence referred to in section 475A of the Crimes Act 1900.(3) Division 4 applies to any award of costs arising from proceedings being dealt with under subsection (1).s 249: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [6].
250 Procedure where accused person does not obey order to appear
If the accused person does not appear on the day and at the time and place set by an order under Division 2 (or on a day to which a hearing has been adjourned), the court may, if satisfied that the order was served on the accused person:(a) proceed to hear and determine the matter in the absence of the accused person, or(b) if the court thinks the matter should not proceed on that day or without the accused person, adjourn the hearing to a specified time and place and make an order for the apprehension of the accused person under Division 2.ss 250–252: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
251 Procedure where both parties do not appear
If both the prosecutor and the accused person are not present, on a day and at the time and place to which a hearing has been adjourned, the court may proceed to hear and determine the matter in the absence of the parties.ss 250–252: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
252 Procedure where both parties appear
If both the prosecutor and the accused person are present on a day and at the time and place set for the hearing and determination of proceedings for a summary offence (including a day, time and place to which a hearing has been adjourned) the court must proceed to hear and determine the matter.ss 250–252: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
253 (Repealed)
s 253: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [7] [8]. Rep 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [7].
254 Enforcement of fines and orders
The payment of any money ordered by a court exercising summary jurisdiction under this Part to be paid as a penalty or for costs under Division 4 is taken to be a fine within the meaning of the Fines Act 1996.s 254: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82]. Am 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [8].
255 Termination of lower court proceedings on commencement of proceedings under this Part
Any proceedings in a court to which Parts 2–4 apply for an offence for which proceedings may be taken under this Part or before that court are to be terminated on the court being notified, in accordance with the rules, of the commencement of proceedings under this Part for the offence.ss 255–257: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
256 Effect of conviction under this Part
A conviction under this Part for an offence that is of a kind that may be tried either on indictment or under this Part is taken for all purposes, except the Crimes (Local Courts Appeal and Review) Act 2001, to be a conviction on indictment.ss 255–257: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
257 Rules for summary criminal procedure
(1) The Rule Committee may make rules for or with respect to the practice and procedure of a court in the exercise of summary jurisdiction under this Part.(2) Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), the rules may make provision for or with respect to:(a) the service of orders under Division 2,(b) pre-trial procedures and related practices,(c) the attendance or apprehension of witnesses,(d) the examination of witnesses on oath, affirmation or declaration,(e) the production by witnesses of books, documents and writings,(f) the execution of warrants for the apprehension of any person,(g) any matter that by this Part is required to be prescribed by rules or that is necessary or convenient for the carrying out of or giving effect to the provisions of this Act relating to the summary jurisdiction of a court.(3) Nothing in this section limits the rule-making powers conferred on the Supreme Court by the Supreme Court Act 1970.ss 255–257: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [82].
Division 4 Costs
ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257A Definition
In this Division:professional costs means costs (other than court costs) relating to professional expenses and disbursements (including witnesses’ expenses) in respect of proceedings before a court.ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257B When costs may be awarded to prosecutor
A court may, in and by a conviction or order, order an accused person to pay to the registrar of the court, for payment to the prosecutor, such costs as the court specifies or, if the conviction or order directs, as may be determined under section 257G, if:(a) the court convicts the accused person of an offence, or(b) the court makes an order under section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 in respect of an offence.ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257C When professional costs may be awarded to accused person
(1) A court may at the end of proceedings under this Part order that the prosecutor pay professional costs to the registrar of the court, for payment to the accused person, if the matter is dismissed or withdrawn.(2) The amount of professional costs is to be such professional costs as the court specifies or, if the order directs, as may be determined under section 257G.(3) Without limiting the operation of subsection (1), a court may order that the prosecutor in proceedings under this Part pay professional costs if:(a) the accused person is discharged as to the offence the subject of the proceedings, or(b) the matter is dismissed because the prosecutor fails to appear, or(c) the matter is withdrawn or the proceedings are for any reason invalid.ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257D Limit on award of professional costs against a prosecutor acting in a public capacity
(1) Professional costs are not to be awarded in favour of an accused person in proceedings under this Part unless the court is satisfied as to one or more of the following:(a) that the investigation into the alleged offence was conducted in an unreasonable or improper manner,(b) that the proceedings were initiated without reasonable cause or in bad faith or were conducted by the prosecutor in an improper manner,(c) that the prosecutor unreasonably failed to investigate (or to investigate properly) any relevant matter of which it was aware or ought reasonably to have been aware and which suggested either that the accused person might not be guilty or that, for any other reason, the proceedings should not have been brought,(d) that, because of other exceptional circumstances relating to the conduct of the proceedings by the prosecutor, it is just and reasonable to award professional costs.(2) This section:(a) does not apply to the awarding of costs against a prosecutor acting in a private capacity, and(b) does not apply in relation to proceedings for an offence against the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000, the regulations under that Act or the associated occupational health and safety legislation within the meaning of that Act.(3) An officer of an approved charitable organisation under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 is taken not to be acting in a private capacity if the officer acts as the prosecutor in any proceedings under that Act or section 9 (1) of the Veterinary Practice Act 2003.ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257E Public officers and police officers not personally liable for costs
(1) A public officer or a police officer is entitled to be indemnified by the State for any costs awarded against the officer personally as the prosecutor in any criminal proceedings in a court in which the officer is acting in his or her capacity as a public officer or a police officer.(2) In this section:public officer does not include a councillor or an employee of a council or any other person prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section.ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257F Costs on adjournment
(1) A court may in any proceedings under this Part, at its discretion or on the application of a party, order that one party pay costs if the matter is adjourned.(2) An order may be made only if the court is satisfied that the other party has incurred additional costs because of the unreasonable conduct or delays of the party against whom the order is made.(3) The order must specify the amount of costs payable or may provide for the determination of the amount at the end of the proceedings.(4) An order may be made whatever the result of the proceedings.ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
257G Calculation of costs
The professional or other costs payable by a prosecutor or accused person in accordance with an order directing that the amount of costs is to be determined under this section are to be determined:(a) by agreement between the prosecutor and accused person, or(b) if no such agreement can be reached, in accordance with Division 11 of Part 3.2 of the Legal Profession Act 2004 (with or without modifications prescribed by the regulations).ch 4, pt 5, div 4 (ss 257A–257G): Ins 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [9].
Chapter 5 Summary disposal of indictable offences by Local Courts
ch 5, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [83].
258 Objects of this Chapter
The objects of this Chapter are:(a) to require the indictable offences listed in Table 1 to Schedule 1 to be dealt with summarily unless the prosecutor or the person charged with the offence concerned elects to have the offence dealt with on indictment, and(b) to require the indictable offences listed in Table 2 to Schedule 1 to be dealt with summarily unless the prosecutor elects to have the offence concerned dealt with on indictment.s 258 (previously s 18): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85] [86].
259 Indictable offences to which this Chapter applies
This Chapter applies to the indictable offences listed in Tables 1 and 2 to Schedule 1.s 259 (previously s 19): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85].
260 Offences to be dealt with summarily unless election made to proceed on indictment
(1) An indictable offence listed in Table 1 to Schedule 1 is to be dealt with summarily by a Local Court unless the prosecutor or the person charged with the offence elects in accordance with this Chapter to have the offence dealt with on indictment.(2) An indictable offence listed in Table 2 to Schedule 1 is to be dealt with summarily by a Local Court unless the prosecutor elects in accordance with this Chapter to have the offence dealt with on indictment.s 260 (previously s 20): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [9].
261 Procedure for dealing with offences summarily if no election made
An indictable offence listed in Table 1 or 2 to Schedule 1 is, if no election is made in accordance with this Chapter, to be dealt with summarily in accordance with the relevant provisions of this Act and any other relevant law as if it were a summary offence.s 261 (previously s 21): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85] [87]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [10].
262 Procedure for dealing with offences if election made
(1) An indictable offence listed in Table 1 or 2 to Schedule 1 is, if an election is made in accordance with this Chapter, to be dealt with on indictment in accordance with the relevant provisions of this Act and any other relevant law.(2) If an election is made in accordance with this Chapter and the person charged with the offence pleads guilty to the offence before a Local Court and the Court accepts the plea, the offence is to be dealt with in accordance with Division 5 of Part 2 of Chapter 3 as if the person charged had pleaded guilty under that Division to the offence.s 262 (previously s 22): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85] [87] [88]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [11]; 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [6].
263 Time for making election
(1) An election to have an offence dealt with on indictment must be made within the time fixed by the Local Court.(2) An election may, with the leave of the Local Court, be made after the time so fixed if the Court is satisfied that special circumstances exist.(3) However, an election may not be made after the following events:(a) in the case of a plea of not guilty—the commencement of the taking of evidence for the prosecution in the summary trial,(b) in the case of a plea of guilty—the presentation of the facts relied on by the prosecution to prove the offence.(4) An election may be made on behalf of a corporation by a person appearing as a representative of the corporation.(5) The jurisdiction of a Local Court under this section may be exercised by a registrar.s 263 (previously s 23): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [89].
264 Election may be withdrawn
(1) An election for an offence to be dealt with on indictment may be withdrawn by the party who made the election.(2) However, an election may not be withdrawn after the following events:(a) in the case of a plea of not guilty—the commencement of the taking of evidence for the prosecution in the committal for trial proceedings,(b) in the case of a plea of guilty—the committal of the person charged for sentence.(3) An offence is to be dealt with summarily in accordance with this Chapter if an election is withdrawn in accordance with this section.s 264 (previously s 24): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85].
265 Information to be given to person charged (Table 1 offences)
(1) When a person charged with an indictable offence listed in Table 1 to Schedule 1 first appears before a Local Court in respect of the offence, the Court:(a) is to address the person about the person’s right to make an election and the consequences of not making an election, and(b) is to give to the person a statement about the person’s right to make an election and the consequences of not making an election that is in the form of words prescribed by the regulations.(1A) Subsection (1) does not apply if the person charged with an indictable offence is represented by a legal practitioner.(2) The prosecutor is to serve, or cause to be served, on a person charged with an indictable offence listed in Table 1 to Schedule 1:(a) a copy of the brief of evidence relating to the offence that complies with section 186, andwithin the time fixed by the Local Court. The time so fixed must be before the time fixed by the Court for the making of an election in respect of the offence.(b) a copy of the person’s criminal record (if any) known to the prosecutor,(2A) Despite subsection (2) (a), the prosecutor is not required to include a copy of a proposed exhibit identified in a brief of evidence if it is impossible or impractical to copy the exhibit. However, the prosecutor must in that case comply with section 184 (2).(3) Without limiting the powers of a Local Court to adjourn proceedings, the Local Court is to grant such adjournments as appear to be just and reasonable if a brief of evidence or a criminal record, or both, are not served in accordance with this section, and the Court is to extend accordingly the time fixed for the making of an election in respect of the offence.(4) In this section, a reference to a brief of evidence is a reference to a brief of evidence within the meaning of section 183 (2).(5) The jurisdiction of the Local Court under this section may also be exercised by a registrar.s 265 (previously s 25): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [86] [90]–[93]; 2003 No 27, Sch 8 [6] [7].
266 Regulations
(1) Regulations may be made for or with respect to elections under this Chapter.(2) In particular, regulations may be made for or with respect to the following:(a) the form and manner in which an election is to be made,(b) the form and manner in which the withdrawal of an election is to be made,(c) the notification of the making or withdrawal of an election,(d) the form and contents, and the service, of briefs of evidence and criminal records.s 266 (previously s 26): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85].
267 Maximum penalties for Table 1 offences
(1) This section prescribes the maximum penalty that may be imposed for an indictable offence listed in Table 1 to Schedule 1 dealt with summarily under this Chapter in any case where the maximum penalty (when the offence is dealt with summarily) is not provided by law.(2) The maximum term of imprisonment that a Local Court may impose for an offence is, subject to this section, 2 years or the maximum term of imprisonment provided by law for the offence, whichever is the shorter term.(3) The maximum fine that a Local Court may impose for an offence is 100 penalty units or the maximum fine provided by law for the offence, whichever is the smaller fine.(4) The maximum term of imprisonment that a Local Court may impose for the following offences is:(a) for an offence under section 51A, 52A, 52AB or 52B of the Crimes Act 1900—18 months,(b) for an offence under section 53 or 54 of the Crimes Act 1900—12 months.(4A) The maximum penalty that a Local Court may impose for an offence under section 25 of the Oaths Act 1900 is imprisonment for 12 months, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both.(4AA) (Repealed)(4B) The maximum penalty that a Local Court may impose for the offence of:(a) attempting to commit an offence, or(b) being an accessory before or after the fact in relation to an offence that is a felony, or(c) aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the commission of an offence that is a misdemeanour, or(d) conspiring to commit an offence, oris the same as the maximum penalty that a Local Court may impose for the offence concerned.(e) inciting the commission of an offence,(5) A Local Court may, instead of imposing a term of imprisonment, impose a fine not exceeding 100 penalty units for an offence listed in Table 1 to Schedule 1 in any case where a fine is not otherwise provided by law for the offence.(6) Nothing in this section affects an option provided by law to impose either a term of imprisonment, or a fine, or both.(7) Nothing in this section affects Division 2 of Part 4 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999.(7A) Nothing in this section prevents a Local Court from imposing the maximum term of imprisonment that may be imposed under section 33AA (2) (a) of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985.(8) (Repealed)s 267 (previously s 27): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85]; 2005 No 74, Sch 2.1 [1].
268 Maximum penalties for Table 2 offences
(1) This section prescribes the maximum penalty that may be imposed for an indictable offence listed in Table 2 to Schedule 1 dealt with summarily under this Chapter in any case where the maximum penalty (when the offence is dealt with summarily) is not provided by law.(1A) The maximum term of imprisonment that a Local Court may impose for an offence is, subject to this section, 2 years or the maximum term of imprisonment provided by law for the offence, whichever is the shorter term.(2) The maximum penalty that a Local Court may impose for the following offences is:(a) for an offence under section 35A (2), 58, 59, 59A, 60 (1), 60A (1), 60B, 60C, 60E (1) and (4), 61L or 61O (1) or (1A) of the Crimes Act 1900—imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both,(b) for an offence under section 56, 61 or 61N of the Crimes Act 1900—imprisonment for 12 months, or a fine of 20 penalty units, or both,(c) for an offence listed in Part 2 or 3 of Table 2 to Schedule 1 (other than an offence under section 154A of the Crimes Act 1900—imprisonment for 12 months, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both, however, the maximum fine that a Local Court may impose if the value of the property, amount of money or reward concerned does not exceed $2,000 is 20 penalty units,(d) for an offence under section 154A of the Crimes Act 1900—imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both,(e) for an offence under section 93G, 93H or 93I of the Crimes Act 1900—imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both,(e1) for an offence under section 7, 7A, 36, 43, 44A, 50, 50AA, 50A (1), 51 (1) or (2), 51A, 51BA, 51D (1), 51E, 58 (2), 62, 63, 64, 66, 70, 71A, 72 (1) or 74 of the Firearms Act 1996—imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both,(f) for an offence under section 562AB of the Crimes Act 1900—imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both,(i) for an offence under section 100 (1) of the Rural Fires Act 1997—imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 100 penalty units, or both,(j) for an offence under section 578C (2A) of the Crimes Act 1900—in the case of an individual, imprisonment for 2 years, or a fine of 100 penalty units (or both), or in the case of a corporation, 200 penalty units,(k) for an offence under section 10 or 20 of the Liens on Crops and Wool and Stock Mortgages Act 1898—imprisonment for 12 months, or a fine of 50 penalty units, or both.(2A) The maximum penalty that a Local Court may impose for the offence of:(a) attempting to commit an offence, or(b) being an accessory before or after the fact in relation to an offence that is a felony, or(c) aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the commission of an offence that is a misdemeanour, or(d) conspiring to commit an offence, oris the same as the maximum penalty that a Local Court may impose for the offence concerned.(e) inciting the commission of an offence,(3) Nothing in this section affects Division 2 of Part 4 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999.s 268 (previously s 28): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [84]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [85]; 2003 No 36, Sch 3.1 [1]; 2003 No 85, Sch 4 [1]; 2003 No 92, Sch 3.1 [1] [2]; 2004 No 49, Sch 3 [1]; 2005 No 94, Sch 2.1 [1]; 2005 No 119, Sch 4 [1].
269 Offences by children
Nothing in this Chapter confers jurisdiction on a Local Court to deal with an offence if the Children’s Court has exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine the matter.s 269 (previously s 30): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [95]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [96].
270 No time limit for offences dealt with summarily under this Chapter
Section 179, and the provisions of any other Act limiting the time within which proceedings for summary offences may be instituted, do not apply to offences dealt with summarily under this Chapter.s 270 (previously s 31): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [95]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [96] [97]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [12].
271 Effect of conviction
The conviction of a person of an offence dealt with summarily under this Chapter has the same effect as a conviction on indictment for the offence.s 271: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [95]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [96].
272 Application of Chapter and continued application of certain provisions
(1) This Chapter applies to proceedings for an offence with which a person is charged after (but not before) the commencement of this section irrespective of when the offence was committed.(2) Despite section 475C of the Crimes Act 1900, sections 476, 480, 481, 495, 496, 496A, 497 and 500 of that Act, and the provisions of any other Act or instrument referring to any of those sections, continue to apply to proceedings for offences with which a person was charged before the commencement of this section (irrespective of when the person is dealt with under those sections or provisions).(3) However, if a person is charged with more than one offence and proceedings for those offences are to be dealt with together, this Chapter applies to the proceedings despite the fact that the person was charged with one or more (but not all) of those offences before the commencement of this section.ss 272 (previously ss 32, 33): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [95]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [96].
273 Jurisdiction of Magistrates in respect of offences arising under Division 2 of Part 4 of Crimes Act 1900
If, by virtue of this Chapter, a Local Court has jurisdiction to deal with a charge arising under Division 2 of Part 4 of the Crimes Act 1900, the Local Court may hear the charge irrespective of whether, in order to determine the charge, it is necessary to determine title to any property.s 273 (previously s 34): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [95]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [96]; 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [13].
Chapter 6 Evidentiary matters
ch 6, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [98].
Part 1 Preliminary
ch 6, pt 1: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [98].
274 Application
This Chapter applies, to the extent that it is capable of being applied, to all offences, however arising (whether under an Act or at common law), whenever committed and in whatever court dealt with.s 274: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [98]. Am 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [3].
275 Definitions
In this Chapter:Judge includes a Magistrate, a Children’s Court Magistrate, a Licensing Magistrate, a warden of a Warden’s Court, the President or a judicial member of the Industrial Relations Commission and an Industrial Magistrate and any other person of a class prescribed for the purposes of this definition.s 275: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [98]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [7].
Part 2 General
ch 6, pt 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [98].
275A Improper questions
(1) In any criminal proceedings, the court must disallow a question put to a witness in cross-examination, or inform the witness that it need not be answered, if the court is of the opinion that the question (referred to as a disallowable question):(a) is misleading or confusing, or(b) is unduly annoying, harassing, intimidating, offensive, oppressive, humiliating or repetitive, or(c) is put to the witness in a manner or tone that is belittling, insulting or otherwise inappropriate, or(d) has no basis other than a sexist, racial, cultural or ethnic stereotype.(2) Without limiting the matters that the court may take into account for the purposes of subsection (1), it is to take into account:(a) any relevant condition or characteristic of the witness, including age, education, ethnic and cultural background, language background and skills, level of maturity and understanding and personality, and(b) any mental, intellectual or physical disability to which the witness is or appears to be subject.(3) A question is not a disallowable question merely because:(a) the question challenges the truthfulness of the witness or the consistency or accuracy of any statements made by the witness, or(b) the question requires the witness to discuss a subject that could be considered to be distasteful or private.(4) A party to criminal proceedings may object to a question put to a witness on the ground that it is a disallowable question.(5) However, the duty imposed on the court by this section applies whether or not an objection is raised to a particular question.(6) A failure by the court to disallow a question under this section, or to inform the witness that it need not be answered, does not affect the admissibility in evidence of any answer given by the witness in response to the question.(7) Section 41 of the Evidence Act 1995 does not apply to criminal proceedings to which this section applies.(8) A person must not, without the express permission of a court, print or publish any question that the court has disallowed under this section.Maximum penalty: 60 penalty units.(9) In this section:criminal proceedings means proceedings against a person for an offence (whether summary or indictable), and includes the following:(a) committal proceedings,(b) proceedings relating to bail,(c) proceedings relating to sentencing,(d) proceedings on an appeal against conviction or sentence.s 275A: Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [4].
276 Proof of service of notice to produce
An affidavit by:(a) the Director of Public Prosecutions or the Solicitor for Public Prosecutions, or(b) a member of the staff of the Director of Public Prosecutions, or(c) a legal practitioner or legal practitioner’s clerk, or(d) the accused person, oras to the service of any notice to produce and of the time when it was served, with a copy of the notice annexed to the affidavit, is sufficient evidence of the service of the original of the notice and of the time when it was served.(e) a police officer,ss 276–279 (previously ss 101–104): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [99].
277 Stealing goods from vessel or wharf
(1) This section applies to the following offences:(a) any offence involving the stealing of property:(i) from any vessel, barge, boat or train, or(ii) from any dock, wharf, quay, railway yard or other railway premises, or(iii) from any store or shed used in connection with and adjoining any such dock, wharf, quay, railway yard or other railway premises, or(iv) in the course of transit from any vessel, barge, boat or train, or from any store or shed used in connection with and adjoining such wharf, dock, quay, railway yard or other railway premises, or(b) any offence involving the receiving of property so stolen knowing it to have been stolen.(2) On the prosecution of any person for an offence to which this section applies:(a) evidence may be given of any writing, printing, or marks on any property alleged to have been stolen or received, or on any package containing such property, without producing or giving notice to produce the original writing, printing or marks, and(b) any document purporting to be a document of title to any property alleged to have been stolen or received:(i) is admissible in evidence on production and without further proof, and(ii) is evidence of the particulars contained in the document, and that the ownership of the property is in the consignee referred to in the document or his or her assignee.(3) In this section:document of title to property includes:(a) any bill of lading, India warrant, dock warrant, warehouse keeper’s certificate, warrant, or order for the delivery or transfer of any goods or valuable thing, and(b) any bought and sold note or other document:(i) used in the ordinary course of business as proof of the possession or control of goods, or(ii) purporting to authorise, by endorsement or delivery, the possessor of such document to transfer or receive any goods thereby represented or therein mentioned or referred to.train includes any railway carriage, railway truck or other railway vehicle that is on any railway.ss 276–279 (previously ss 101–104): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [99].
278 Incriminating statements admissible though on oath
An incriminating statement made voluntarily by an accused person before any charge has been preferred against the accused person in respect of an indictable offence is not to be rejected merely because the statement was made on oath.ss 276–279 (previously ss 101–104): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [99].
279 Compellability of spouses to give evidence in certain proceedings
(1) In this section:(a) a reference to the spouse of an accused person includes a reference to a person with whom the accused person has a de facto relationship within the meaning of the Property (Relationships) Act 1984, and(b) a reference to a domestic violence offence is a reference to a domestic violence offence within the meaning of the Crimes Act 1900, and(c) a reference to a domestic violence offence committed on the spouse of an accused person includes a reference to an offence of contravening a prohibition or restriction specified in an apprehended violence order that was made against the accused person and in respect of which the spouse was the protected person, and(d) a reference to a child assault offence is a reference to:(i) a prescribed sexual offence committed on a child under the age of 18 years, or(ii) an offence under, or mentioned in, section 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 33, 33A, 35, 39, 41, 42, 43, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49, 58, 59 or 61 of the Crimes Act 1900 committed on a child under the age of 18 years, or(iii) an offence that, at the time it was committed, was a child assault offence for the purposes of this section or section 407AA of the Crimes Act 1900, or(iv) an offence of attempting, or of conspiracy or incitement, to commit an offence referred to in subparagraph (i), (ii) or (iii), and(e) a reference to a child assault offence committed on a child includes a reference to an offence of contravening a prohibition or restriction specified in an apprehended violence order that was made against the accused person and in respect of which that child was the protected person.(2) The spouse of an accused person in proceedings in any court:(a) for a domestic violence offence (other than an offence arising from a negligent act or omission) committed on the spouse, oris compellable to give evidence in the proceedings, either for the prosecution or for the defence, without the consent of the accused person.(b) for a child assault offence (other than an offence arising from a negligent act or omission) committed on:(i) a child living in the household of the accused person, or(ii) a child who, although not living in the household of the accused person, is a child of the accused person and the spouse,(3) The spouse of an accused person is not compellable to give evidence for the prosecution as referred to in subsection (2) if the spouse has applied to, and been excused by, the court.(4) A court may excuse the spouse of an accused person from giving evidence for the prosecution as referred to in subsection (2) if satisfied:(a) that the application to be excused is made by that spouse freely and independently of threat or any other improper influence by any person, and(b) that it is relatively unimportant to the case to establish the facts in relation to which it appears that the spouse is to be asked to give evidence, or there is other evidence available to establish those facts, and(c) that the offence with which the accused person is charged is of a minor nature.(5) When excusing the spouse of an accused person from giving evidence under subsection (4), the court:(a) must state the reasons for doing so, and(b) must cause those reasons to be recorded in writing in a form prescribed by the regulations.(6) An application under this section by the spouse of an accused person to be excused from giving evidence is to be made and determined in the absence of the jury (if any) and the accused person, but in the presence of the accused person’s counsel.(7) A court may conduct the hearing of an application under this section in any manner it thinks fit, and is not bound to observe rules of law governing the admission of evidence but may obtain information on any matter in any manner it thinks fit.(8) The fact that the spouse of an accused person in proceedings for an offence has applied to be excused, or has been excused, from giving evidence in the proceedings is not to be made the subject of any comment by the court or by any party in the proceedings.ss 276–279 (previously ss 101–104): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [99].
280 Disclosure of address or telephone number of witness
(1) A witness in proceedings for an offence, or a person who makes a written statement that is likely to be produced in proceedings for an offence, is not required to disclose his or her address or telephone number, unless:(a) the address or telephone number is a materially relevant part of the evidence, or(b) the court makes an order requiring the disclosure.(2) An application for such an order may be made by the prosecution or the defence.(3) The court may make such an order only if it is satisfied that disclosure is not likely to present a reasonably ascertainable risk to the welfare or protection of any person or that the interests of justice outweigh any such risk.(4) An address or telephone number that is not required to be disclosed and that is contained in a written statement may, without reference to the person who made the written statement, be deleted from the statement, or rendered illegible, before the statement is produced in court or given to the accused person.(5) A written statement is not inadmissible as evidence on the ground that it either does or does not disclose any such address or telephone number as referred to in this section.(6) This section does not prevent the disclosure of an address in a written statement if the statement does not identify it as a particular person’s address.(7) (Repealed)(8) In this section:address includes a private, business or official address.telephone number includes a private, business or official telephone number.s 280 (previously s 106): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [100]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [101].
281 Admissions by suspects
(1) This section applies to an admission:(a) that was made by an accused person who, at the time when the admission was made, was or could reasonably have been suspected by an investigating official of having committed an offence, and(b) that was made in the course of official questioning, and(c) that relates to an indictable offence, other than an indictable offence that can be dealt with summarily without the consent of the accused person.(2) Evidence of an admission to which this section applies is not admissible unless:(a) there is available to the court:(i) a tape recording made by an investigating official of the interview in the course of which the admission was made, or(ii) if the prosecution establishes that there was a reasonable excuse as to why a tape recording referred to in subparagraph (i) could not be made, a tape recording of an interview with the person who made the admission, being an interview about the making and terms of the admission in the course of which the person states that he or she made an admission in those terms, or(b) the prosecution establishes that there was a reasonable excuse as to why a tape recording referred to in paragraph (a) could not be made.(3) The hearsay rule and the opinion rule (within the meaning of the Evidence Act 1995) do not prevent a tape recording from being admitted and used in proceedings before the court as mentioned in subsection (2).(4) In this section:investigating official means:(a) a police officer (other than a police officer who is engaged in covert investigations under the orders of a superior), or(b) a person appointed by or under an Act (other than a person who is engaged in covert investigations under the orders of a superior) whose functions include functions in respect of the prevention or investigation of offences prescribed by the regulations.official questioning means questioning by an investigating official in connection with the investigation of the commission or possible commission of an offence.reasonable excuse includes:(a) a mechanical failure, or(b) the refusal of a person being questioned to have the questioning electronically recorded, or(c) the lack of availability of recording equipment within a period in which it would be reasonable to detain the person being questioned.tape recording includes:(a) audio recording, or(b) video recording, or(c) a video recording accompanied by a separately but contemporaneously recorded audio recording.s 281 (previously s 108): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [102].
Part 2A Sensitive evidence
ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
281A Definitions
(1) In this Part:accused person means a person who stands, or any of the persons who stand, charged with an offence (whether summary or indictable), and includes the following:(a) in relation to proceedings for a summary offence, a defendant,(b) in relation to sentencing proceedings, a person who has been committed for sentence to the District Court or Supreme Court,(c) in relation to proceedings on an appeal against a conviction or sentence, the person convicted or sentenced.criminal investigation means the investigation of an offence or alleged offence.criminal proceedings means proceedings against a person for an offence (whether summary or indictable), and includes the following:(a) committal proceedings,(b) proceedings relating to bail,(c) proceedings relating to sentencing,(d) proceedings on an appeal against conviction or sentence.means:(a) in relation to criminal proceedings, the Director of Public Prosecutions, a delegate of the Director of Public Prosecutions, a police officer, or any other person acting in a public official capacity, who is responsible for the institution or conduct of a prosecution, and(b) in relation to a criminal investigation, a police officer or any other person acting in a public official capacity who is responsible for the conduct of a criminal investigation.sensitive evidence has the meaning given by section 281B.(2) In this Part, a reference to an accused person or a includes a reference to a legal practitioner representing the accused person or the prosecuting authority.ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
281B Sensitive evidence—meaning
(1) For the purposes of this Part, anything that contains or displays an image of a person (the protected person) is sensitive evidence if:(a) the image is obscene or indecent, or(b) providing a copy of the image to another person without the protected person’s consent would interfere with the protected person’s privacy, or(c) the image was taken after the death of the protected person.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the following are examples of sensitive evidence:(a) a photograph of an alleged sexual assault victim, taken in connection with a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings, that shows the person’s genitalia or otherwise shows the person in a state of undress,(b) a video, held or seized by a prosecuting authority, showing a person committing a sexual offence,(c) a computer hard drive, held or seized by a prosecuting authority, containing images of child pornography,(d) a photograph of a deceased person taken in connection with a post mortem examination,(e) a photograph of a deceased person taken at a crime scene.(3) In determining whether a thing is obscene or indecent, the fact that the thing was brought into existence, or is in the possession of a prosecuting authority, for the purpose of providing evidence of an offence is to be disregarded.ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
281C Accused person not entitled to copy of sensitive evidence
(1) A prosecuting authority is not required and cannot be required (whether by subpoena or any other procedure), in or in connection with any criminal investigation or criminal proceedings, to give an accused person a copy of anything the prosecuting authority reasonably considers to be sensitive evidence.(2) This section applies despite anything to the contrary in this or any other Act, or any other law.ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
281D Procedures for giving access to sensitive evidence to accused person
(1) If, but for this Part, a prosecuting authority would be required, in or in connection with any criminal investigation or criminal proceedings, to provide a copy of a thing to an accused person, and the prosecuting authority does not give a copy of the thing to the accused person as a result of this Part, the prosecuting authority must give the accused person a written notice (a sensitive evidence notice) that complies with this section.(2) The sensitive evidence notice must:(a) describe the thing that the prosecuting authority considers to be sensitive evidence, and(b) indicate that, as the prosecuting authority considers the thing to be sensitive evidence, the prosecuting authority is not required to give the accused person a copy of the thing, and(c) indicate that the accused person will not be given a copy of the thing, and(d) contain information to the effect that the accused person is entitled to view the thing at a place nominated by the prosecuting authority and under the supervision of the prosecuting authority, and(e) set out the name and contact details of the person who is responsible for arranging such a viewing on behalf of the prosecuting authority.(3) After receiving a sensitive evidence notice, the accused person may give the prosecuting authority a written notice (an access request notice) that indicates that the accused person requires access to the thing.(4) The prosecuting authority must, as soon as practicable after receiving an access request notice, give the accused person, and any other person who has been engaged to assist with the accused person’s case, reasonable access to the thing so as to enable them to view (but not copy) the thing. This may require access to be given on more than one occasion.(5) The prosecuting authority may require any such access to take place subject to such conditions as the prosecuting authority considers appropriate to ensure that there is no unauthorised reproduction or circulation of the thing and that the integrity of the thing is protected.(6) Without limiting subsection (5), the prosecuting authority may require any such access to take place under the supervision of the prosecuting authority or a person assisting the prosecuting authority.(7) A person who is given access to a thing by a prosecuting authority under this section must not, without the authority of the prosecuting authority:(a) copy, or permit a person to copy, the thing, or(b) give the thing to another person, or(c) remove the thing from the custody of the prosecuting authority.Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units, or 2 years imprisonment, or both.(8) The Attorney General may approve the form of any notice to be used for the purposes of this section.ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
281E Prosecuting authority entitled to retain possession of sensitive evidence
(1) If during any criminal proceedings an accused person is given sensitive evidence, or a copy of sensitive evidence, by the prosecuting authority in the proceedings, the court must, on application by the prosecuting authority, direct the accused person to return the sensitive evidence or copy to the custody of the prosecuting authority at or before the end of each day during which the proceedings are heard.(2) At the completion of any criminal proceedings in which sensitive evidence is tendered by the prosecuting authority, or sensitive evidence given to the accused person by the prosecuting authority is tendered by the accused person, the court must, on application by the prosecuting authority, direct that the sensitive evidence, and any copies of the sensitive evidence made for the purposes of the proceedings, be returned to the custody of the prosecuting authority.ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
281F Improper copying or circulation of sensitive evidence
(1) A person who has possession of sensitive evidence that is prosecution evidence must not copy, or permit a person to copy, the sensitive evidence, or give possession of the sensitive evidence to another person, except:(a) for the legitimate purposes of a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings, or(b) if the person is a public official, in the proper exercise of the person’s public official functions (including any functions relating to education or training).Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units, or 2 years imprisonment, or both.(2) For the purposes of this section, any sensitive evidence in the possession of a person is prosecution evidence if:(a) the person was given possession of the sensitive evidence by a prosecuting authority in or in connection with a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings, or(b) the person is a public official who created, or obtained possession of, the sensitive evidence in the exercise of, or as a result of an opportunity that arose in the exercise of, public official functions in or in connection with a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings.(3) In this section:public official has the same meaning as in the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988.ch 6, pt 2A (ss 281A–281F): Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [5].
Part 3 Medical examinations and law enforcement devices
ch 6, pt 3, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [103].
282 Medical examinations
(1) Unless otherwise directed by the court, it is not necessary for a person who has made a scientific examination of any article or living person or dead body to give evidence of the result of the examination.(2) A certificate under the hand of any such person stating:(a) that he or she has made the examination, and(b) the nature of his or her scientific qualifications, andis admissible as evidence of the matters stated in the certificate.(c) the facts and conclusions he or she has arrived at,(3) If such a certificate is tendered by the prosecutor, a court may not dispose of the case summarily except with the consent of the accused person.s 282 (previously s 109): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [104]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [105].
283 Law enforcement devices
(1) A certificate:(a) that would, by virtue of section 33, 35, 46, 47, 57 or 57B of the Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) Act 1999, be admissible in proceedings for an offence under that Act as evidence of the particulars certified in and by the certificate, oris admissible in all criminal proceedings as evidence of those particulars.(b) that would, by virtue of clause 15, 16 or 17 of Schedule 1 to the Marine Safety Act 1998, be admissible in proceedings for an offence under that Act as evidence of the particulars certified in and by the certificate,(2) Despite subsection (1), such a certificate is not admissible in proceedings under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 as evidence of the use or administration, by the person to whom the certificate relates, of any prohibited drug within the meaning of that Act.(3) Evidence is not required in any criminal proceedings:(a) as to the accuracy or reliability of any approved traffic lane camera device, approved camera detection device, approved camera recording device, approved speed measuring device or breath analysing instrument to which such a certificate relates, orunless evidence is adduced that the device or instrument was not accurate, was not reliable or was not properly operated.(b) as to the manner in which any approved traffic lane camera device, approved camera detection device, approved camera recording device, approved speed measuring device or breath analysing instrument to which such a certificate relates was operated,(4) A photograph that would, by virtue of section 47, 57 or 57B of the Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) Act 1999, be admissible in proceedings under that Act as evidence of the matters shown or recorded on the photograph is admissible in all criminal proceedings as evidence of those matters.(5) In this section, approved camera detection device, approved camera recording device, approved speed measuring device, approved traffic lane camera device, and breath analysing instrument have the same meanings as they have in the Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) Act 1999.s 283 (previously s 110): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [104]. Am 2004 No 22, Sch 3 [1]–[5]; 2005 No 4, Sch 2.2.
Part 4 Depositions and written statements
ch 6, pt 4, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [106].
284 Depositions by persons dangerously ill
(1) If it appears to an authorised person that:(a) a person who is able to give material information about an indictable offence is dangerously ill, andthe authorised person may take the deposition of the person in connection with the offence in the same way as if a prosecution for the offence were then pending before a court.(b) the person’s evidence will probably be lost if not immediately taken,(2) The deposition must be in the form prescribed by the regulations and must be signed by the authorised person.(3) As soon as practicable after the deposition is taken, a copy of the deposition must be delivered to the Attorney General, to the Director of Public Prosecutions and to each person whom the deposition tends to incriminate.(4) If practicable, each person whom the deposition tends to incriminate is entitled, before being committed or placed on trial, to be given full opportunity to cross-examine the deponent.(5) If in proceedings against an accused person:(a) for the offence to which the deposition relates, orit is proved to the satisfaction of the court that the deponent is dead, or so ill as not to be able to travel or to give evidence without a risk of endangering the deponent’s life, the deposition may be admitted as evidence for or against the accused person, whether or not it was taken in the presence or hearing of the prosecutor or the accused person.(b) for the murder or manslaughter of the deponent, in the case of his or her death or alleged death by reason of the offence,(6) In this section:means any of the following:(a) a Judge,(b) a justice of the peace who is a registrar of a Local Court or the Drug Court,(c) a justice of the peace who is an employee of the Attorney General’s Department authorised in writing by the Attorney General to be an authorised person for the purposes of this section.s 284 (previously s 111): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [107]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [108] [109]; 2003 No 71, Sch 2 [1]–[4].
285 Depositions tendered by prosecution
(1) A deposition may be admitted as evidence for the prosecution at the trial of an accused person on proof on oath of each of the following matters:(a) that the deponent:(i) is dead, or so ill as not to be able to travel or to give evidence without a risk of endangering the deponent’s life, or(ii) is absent from Australia,(b) that the deposition was recorded:(i) by or in the presence of the Judge before whom it was taken, and(ii) in the presence of the accused person or during any period when the accused person (having been excused under section 72) was absent,(c) that the accused person, or his or her counsel, had full opportunity to cross-examine the witness, or that the accused person (having been excused under section 72) was absent when the deposition was taken and was not represented by counsel.(2) The deposition:(a) must be in writing, signed by the Judge by or before whom the deposition was taken, or(b) must be in the form of a written transcript of matter recorded by means, other than writing, authorised by law for the recording of depositions.(3) If the deposition is in the form of a written transcript referred to in subsection (2) (b), it must be proved on oath:(a) that the record so made is a true record of the matter so deposed, and(b) that the transcript of the record is a correct transcript of that record.(4) If it appears from the deposition:(a) that it was made in the presence of the accused person, andthe deposition is taken to have been so made and the accused person, or his or her counsel, is taken to have had such an opportunity, unless proved to the contrary.(b) that the accused person, or his or her counsel, had full opportunity to cross-examine the witness,(5) If it appears from the deposition:(a) that it was made while the accused person (having been excused under section 72) was absent, andthe deposition is taken to have been so made and the accused person is taken to have not been represented by counsel, unless proved to the contrary.(b) that the accused person was not represented by counsel at that time,(6) In this section:Judge includes a coroner holding office under the Coroners Act 1980.s 285 (previously s 112): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [107]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [108] [110] [111].
286 Depositions tendered by accused person
(1) The deposition of any witness called and examined before a judge by and on behalf of the accused person may, if the accused person so requires, be admitted as evidence in his or her defence at the trial:(a) if the witness:(i) is dead, or so ill as not to be able to travel or to give evidence without a risk of endangering the witness’s life, or(ii) is absent from Australia, or(b) if the committing Magistrate has certified, before committing the accused person for trial, that in the opinion of the Magistrate:(i) the evidence of the witness is material, and(ii) the witness is willing to attend the trial, but is unable to bear the expense of attendance.(2) A deposition may not be admitted as evidence on the ground referred to in subsection (1) (b) if the witness has, in due time before the trial, been subpoenaed by the Crown.(3) In this section:Judge includes a coroner holding office under the Coroners Act 1980.s 286 (previously s 113): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [107]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [112]–[114].
287 Evidentiary effect of certain transcripts
(1) If a deposition referred to in section 112 or 113 is in the form of a written transcript of matter recorded by means, other than writing, authorised by law for the recording of depositions:(a) the record so made is taken to be a true record of the matter so deposed, andunless proved to the contrary.(b) the transcript of the record is taken to be a correct transcript of that record,(2) Subsection (1) applies only to:(a) a transcript made in the form of shorthand notes, being a transcript identified by, and signed in the handwriting of, the person purporting to have made those notes, or(b) a transcript made by other means (other than writing) authorised by law for the recording of depositions, being a transcript certified in the manner prescribed by the rules.s 287 (previously s 114): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [107]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [115].
288 Depositions taken during pre-trial investigations
A deposition taken on the preliminary or other investigation of an indictable offence:(a) may be admitted as evidence on the trial of the accused person for any other offence, whether of the same or of a different kind, if it would be admissible on his or her trial for the offence in respect of which it was taken, and(b) may be proved in the same manner as if the accused person were on trial for that offence.s 288 (previously s 115): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [107].
289 Written statements admitted in committal proceedings
(1) This section applies to:(a) a written statement the whole or any part of which has been admitted as evidence under Division 3 of Part 2 of Chapter 3, including any part of the statement that has been rejected under that Division,referred to in this section as a prescribed written statement.(b) a written statement the whole or any part of which has been tendered as evidence under Division 5 of Part 2 of Chapter 3,(2) Except in so far as the court otherwise orders, a prescribed written statement may be admitted as evidence for the prosecution at the trial of the accused person on proof on oath that the person who made the statement:(a) is dead, or so ill as not to be able to travel or to give evidence without a risk of endangering the person’s life, or(b) is absent from Australia.(3) If the accused person so requires, a prescribed written statement may be admitted as evidence in the accused person’s defence at the trial of the accused person whenever:(a) the person who made the statement:(i) is dead, or so ill as not to be able to travel or to give evidence without a risk of endangering the person’s life, or(ii) is absent from Australia, or(b) the committing Magistrate has certified, before committing the person for trial, that in the opinion of the Magistrate:(i) the evidence of the person who made the statement is material, and(ii) the person is willing to attend the trial, but is unable to bear the expense of attendance.(4) A statement may not be admitted as evidence on the ground referred to in subsection (3) (b) if the person who made the statement has, in due time before the trial, been subpoenaed by the Crown.(5) A prescribed written statement made in respect of an indictable offence may be admitted as evidence on the trial of the accused person for any other offence, whether of the same or of a different kind, if it would be admissible on his or her trial for the offence in respect of which it was made.(6) If at a trial it appears to the court that the whole or any part of a prescribed written statement is inadmissible, the court may reject the statement or that part, as the case may be, as evidence.s 289 (previously s 116): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [107]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [116]–[119].
Part 5 Evidence in sexual offence proceedings
ch 6, pt 5, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [120].
Division 1 Evidence in certain sexual offence proceedings
ch 6, pt 5, div 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [120].
290 Application
(1) This Division applies to proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence, including committal proceedings.(2) This Division applies to proceedings in which a person stands charged with a prescribed sexual offence, whether the person stands charged with that offence alone or together with any other offence (as an alternative or additional count) and whether or not the person is liable, on the charge, to be found guilty of any other offence.s 290 (previously s 117): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [121]. Am 2003 No 9, Sch 2.1 [2]. Subst 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [6].
290A Definitions
In this Division:accused person, in relation to any proceedings, means the person who stands, or any of the persons who stand, charged in those proceedings with a prescribed sexual offence.complainant, in relation to any proceedings, means the person, or any of the persons, against whom a prescribed sexual offence with which the accused person stands charged in those proceedings is alleged to have been committed, and includes:(a) in relation to an offence under section 80E of the Crimes Act 1900, the person who is alleged to have been the subject of sexual servitude, and(b) in relation to an offence under section 91D, 91E or 91F of the Crimes Act 1900, the person under the age of 18 years who is alleged to have participated in an act of child prostitution, and(c) in relation to an offence under section 91G of the Crimes Act 1900, the person under the age of 18 years who is alleged to have been used for pornographic purposes.s 290A: Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [6].
291 Proceedings must be held in camera when complainant gives evidence
(1) Any part of any proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence in which evidence is given by a complainant is to be held in camera, unless the court otherwise directs.(2) This section applies even if the complainant gives evidence by means of closed-circuit television or other technology or under any alternative arrangements available to the complainant under section 294B or under the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.(3) The court may direct that the part of proceedings in which evidence is given by the complainant be held in open court only at the request of a party to the proceedings and only if the court is satisfied that:(a) special reasons in the interests of justice require the part of the proceedings to be held in open court, or(b) the complainant consents to giving his or her evidence in open court.(4) The principle that proceedings for an offence should generally be open or public in nature, or that justice should be seen to be done, does not of itself constitute special reasons in the interests of justice requiring the part of the proceedings to be held in open court.(5) If the court directs that the part of the proceedings in which evidence is given by the complainant be held in open court, that does not affect the entitlement of the complainant to give evidence in the manner provided for by section 294B or by the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.(6) If the proceedings are proceedings in which a record of the original evidence of the complainant is tendered by the prosecutor under Division 3, this section does not require the record to be tendered in camera or, if the record is an audio visual or audio recording, heard by the court in camera.(7) This section does not affect the entitlement of a complainant to have a person or persons present when giving evidence under section 294C.s 291 (previously s 118): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [121]. Subst 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [7].
291A Other parts of proceedings may be heard in camera
(1) The court may direct that any other part of any proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence, or the entire proceedings, be held in camera.(2) The court may make a direction under this section on its own motion or at the request of any party to the proceedings.(3) In determining whether to make a direction under this section, the court is to consider the following matters:(a) the need of the complainant to have any person excluded from those proceedings,(b) the need of the complainant to have any person present in those proceedings,(c) the interests of justice,(d) any other matter that the court thinks relevant.(4) The requirement under section 291 that any part of the proceedings in which evidence is given by a complainant be held in camera unless the court otherwise directs still applies whether or not a direction is made under this section.(5) If the court makes a direction under this section, it may (either absolutely or subject to conditions) exempt any person from that direction to the extent necessary to allow that person to be present as a support for a person giving evidence or for any other purpose that the court thinks fit.(6) This section does not affect:(a) the entitlement of a complainant to have a person or persons present when giving evidence under section 294C, or(b) the entitlement of a child to have a person present when giving evidence under section 27 of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.ss 291A–291C: Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [7].
291B Incest offence proceedings to be held entirely in camera
(1) Any proceedings in respect of an offence under section 78A or 78B of the Crimes Act 1900 are to be held entirely in camera, despite any other provision of this Division.(2) The court may (either absolutely or subject to conditions) exempt any person from the requirement that the proceedings be held in camera to the extent necessary to allow that person to be present as a support for a person giving evidence or for any other purpose that the court thinks fit.(3) This section does not affect:(a) the entitlement of a complainant to have a person or persons present when giving evidence under section 294C, or(b) the entitlement of a child to have a person present when giving evidence under section 27 of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997.ss 291A–291C: Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [7].
291C Media access to proceedings held in camera
(1) If a complainant gives evidence in proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence from a place other than the courtroom by means of closed-circuit television facilities or other technology that enables communication between that place and the courtroom (whether under section 294B or the Evidence (Children) Act 1997), and the proceedings, or the part of the proceedings concerned, are held in camera under this Division, a media representative may, unless the court otherwise directs, enter or remain in the courtroom while the evidence is given from that other place. This subsection does not apply to proceedings in respect of an offence under section 78A or 78B of the Crimes Act 1900.(2) The fact that proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence, or any part of such proceedings, are held in camera under this Division does not prevent the court from making such arrangements as the court considers reasonably practicable to allow media representatives to view or hear the evidence while it is given, or to view or hear a record of that evidence, as long as the media representatives are not present in the courtroom or other place where the evidence is given during the in camera proceedings.Note—For example, the court may permit media representatives to view the proceedings from a place other than the courtroom by means of closed-circuit television facilities.(3) In this section:media representative, in relation to any proceedings, means a person engaged in preparing a report of the proceedings for dissemination through a public news medium.ss 291A–291C: Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [7].
292 Publication of evidence may be forbidden in certain cases
(1) In any proceedings against a person for a prescribed sexual offence, the court may from time to time make an order forbidding publication of the whole or any part of the evidence tendered in the proceedings or of any report or account of that evidence.(2) If the prosecutor or the accused person (or his or her counsel, if any) indicates to the court that it is desired that any particular matter given in evidence should be available for publication, no such order is to be made in respect of that matter.(3) Any person who contravenes an order under this section is guilty of a summary offence and liable to a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units.(4) This section is subject to any Act or law under which evidence relating to a child under the age of 18 years, or a report or account of that evidence, may not be published.s 292 (previously s 119): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [121]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [122]; 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [8] [9].
293 Admissibility of evidence relating to sexual experience
(1) This section applies to proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence.(2) Evidence relating to the sexual reputation of the complainant is inadmissible.(3) Evidence that discloses or implies:(a) that the complainant has or may have had sexual experience or a lack of sexual experience, oris inadmissible.(b) has or may have taken part or not taken part in any sexual activity,(4) Subsection (3) does not apply:(a) if the evidence:(i) is of the complainant’s sexual experience or lack of sexual experience, or of sexual activity or lack of sexual activity taken part in by the complainant, at or about the time of the commission of the alleged prescribed sexual offence, and(ii) is of events that are alleged to form part of a connected set of circumstances in which the alleged prescribed sexual offence was committed,(b) if the evidence relates to a relationship that was existing or recent at the time of the commission of the alleged prescribed sexual offence, being a relationship between the accused person and the complainant,(c) if:(i) the accused person is alleged to have had sexual intercourse (as defined in section 61H (1) of the Crimes Act 1900) with the complainant, and the accused person does not concede the sexual intercourse so alleged, and(ii) the evidence is relevant to whether the presence of semen, pregnancy, disease or injury is attributable to the sexual intercourse alleged to have been had by the accused person,(d) if the evidence is relevant to:(i) whether at the time of the commission of the alleged prescribed sexual offence there was present in the complainant a disease that, at any relevant time, was absent in the accused person, or(ii) whether at any relevant time there was absent in the complainant a disease that, at the time of the commission of the alleged prescribed sexual offence, was present in the accused person,(e) if the evidence is relevant to whether the allegation that the prescribed sexual offence was committed by the accused person was first made following a realisation or discovery of the presence of pregnancy or disease in the complainant (being a realisation or discovery that took place after the commission of the alleged prescribed sexual offence),and if the probative value of the evidence outweighs any distress, humiliation or embarrassment that the complainant might suffer as a result of its admission.(f) if the evidence has been given by the complainant in cross-examination by or on behalf of the accused person, being evidence given in answer to a question that may, pursuant to subsection (6), be asked,(5) A witness must not be asked:(a) to give evidence that is inadmissible under subsection (2) or (3), or(b) by or on behalf of the accused person, to give evidence that is or may be admissible under subsection (4) unless the court has previously decided that the evidence would, if given, be admissible.(6) If the court is satisfied:(a) that it has been disclosed or implied in the case for the prosecution against the accused person that the complainant has or may have, during a specified period or without reference to any period:(i) had sexual experience, or a lack of sexual experience, of a general or specified nature, or(ii) had taken part in, or not taken part in, sexual activity of a general or specified nature, andthe complainant may be so cross-examined, but only in relation to the experience or activity of the nature (if any) so specified during the period (if any) so specified.(b) the accused person might be unfairly prejudiced if the complainant could not be cross-examined by or on behalf of the accused person in relation to the disclosure or implication,(7) On the trial of a person, any question as to the admissibility of evidence under subsection (2) or (3) or the right to cross-examine under subsection (6) is to be decided by the court in the absence of the jury.(8) If the court decides that evidence is admissible under subsection (4), the court must, before the evidence is given, record or cause to be recorded in writing the nature and scope of the evidence that is so admissible and the reasons for that decision.(9) (Repealed)s 293 (previously s 105): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [123]. Am 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [10] [11].
294 Warning to be given by Judge in relation to lack of complaint in certain sexual offence proceedings
(1) This section applies if, on the trial of a person for a prescribed sexual offence, evidence is given or a question is asked of a witness that tends to suggest:(a) an absence of complaint in respect of the commission of the alleged offence by the person on whom the offence is alleged to have been committed, or(b) delay by that person in making any such complaint.(2) In circumstances to which this section applies, the Judge:(a) must warn the jury that absence of complaint or delay in complaining does not necessarily indicate that the allegation that the offence was committed is false, and(b) must inform the jury that there may be good reasons why a victim of a sexual assault may hesitate in making, or may refrain from making, a complaint about the assault.s 294 (previously s 107): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [124].
294A Arrangements for complainant in prescribed sexual offence proceedings giving evidence when accused person is unrepresented
(1) This section applies to proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence during which the accused person is not represented by counsel.(2) The complainant cannot be examined in chief, cross-examined or re-examined by the accused person, but may be so examined instead by a person appointed by the court.(3) The person appointed by the court is to ask the complainant only the questions that the accused person requests that person to put to the complainant.(4) Any such person, when acting in the course of an appointment under this section, must not independently give the accused person legal or other advice.(5) The court does not have a discretion to decline to appoint a person under this section, despite anything to the contrary in section 28 of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997 or any other Act or law.(6) This section applies whether or not closed-circuit television facilities or other similar technology (or alternative arrangements) are used by the complainant to give evidence.(7) If such a person is appointed in proceedings before a jury, the judge must:(a) inform the jury that it is standard procedure in such cases to appoint the person to put the questions to the complainant, and(b) warn the jury not to draw any inference adverse to the accused person or to give the evidence any greater or lesser weight because of the use of that arrangement.(8) This section extends to proceedings instituted before the commencement of this section, including proceedings that have been partly heard.(9) (Repealed)s 294A: Ins 2003 No 42, Sch 1 [1]. Am 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [12] [13].
294B Giving of evidence by complainant in prescribed sexual offence proceedings—alternative arrangements
(1) This section applies to evidence given in proceedings (including a new trial) in respect of a prescribed sexual offence.(2) This section does not apply to or in respect of the giving of evidence by a child if Part 4 of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997 applies to the giving of that evidence.(3) A complainant who gives evidence to which this section applies is entitled (but may choose not):(a) to give that evidence from a place other than the courtroom by means of closed-circuit television facilities or other technology that enables communication between that place and the courtroom, or(b) to give that evidence by use of alternative arrangements made to restrict contact (including visual contact) between the complainant and the accused person or any other person or persons in the courtroom, including the following:(i) use of screens,(ii) planned seating arrangements for people who have an interest in the proceedings (including the level at which they are seated and the people in the complainant’s line of vision).(4) If, to enable evidence to be given as referred to in subsection (3), the court considers it appropriate to do so, the court may adjourn the proceeding or any part of the proceeding from the courtroom to another court or place.(5) Despite subsection (3) (a), a complainant must not give evidence as referred to in that paragraph if a court, on its own initiative or on application by a party to the proceeding, orders that such means not be used.(6) A court may make an order under subsection (5) only if it is satisfied that there are special reasons, in the interests of justice, for the complainant’s evidence not to be given by such means.(7) In any proceedings in which evidence is given as referred to in subsection (3), the judge must:(a) inform the jury that it is standard procedure for complainants’ evidence in such cases to be given by those means or use of those arrangements, and(b) warn the jury not to draw any inference adverse to the accused person or give the evidence any greater or lesser weight because it is given by those means or by use of those arrangements.(8) Any place outside the courtroom from which a complainant gives evidence under this section is taken to be part of the courtroom in which the proceeding is being held.(9) If a complainant gives evidence as referred to in subsection (3) in a place other than a courtroom, the court may order that a court officer be present at that place.(10) This section extends to evidence given in proceedings instituted before the commencement of this section, including a new trial that was ordered to take place before that commencement and proceedings that have been partly heard.(11) (Repealed)s 294B: Ins 2004 No 50, Sch 1. Am 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [14]–[17].
294C Complainant entitled to have support person or persons present when giving evidence
(1) A complainant is entitled to have a person or persons chosen by the complainant present near the complainant, and within the complainant’s sight, when the complainant is giving evidence in proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence.(2) The entitlement applies:(a) even if the complainant gives evidence by means of closed-circuit television or other technology or under any alternative arrangements available to the complainant under section 294B or the Evidence (Children) Act 1997, and(b) even if the proceedings, or the part of the proceedings in which the complainant gives evidence, are held in camera.(3) Without limiting the entitlement of a complainant under this section, the person or persons chosen by the complainant to be with the complainant when he or she gives evidence may include a parent, guardian, relative, friend or support person of the complainant, or a person assisting the complainant in a professional capacity.(4) An accused person is not entitled to object to the suitability of the person or persons chosen by a complainant to be with the complainant when giving evidence, and the court is not to disallow the complainant’s choice of person or persons on its own motion, unless the complainant’s choice is likely to prejudice the accused person’s right to a fair trial (for example, because the person chosen by the complainant is a witness or potential witness in the proceedings).(5) During any part of the proceedings in which the complainant gives evidence, the person or persons chosen by the complainant to be present when the complainant gives evidence are taken to be exempt from any requirement or direction under this Division that requires the proceedings, or the part of the proceedings concerned, to be held in camera.(6) This section applies to a complainant giving evidence in proceedings in respect of a prescribed sexual offence regardless of the complainant’s age. If the complainant is under the age of 16 years when the evidence is given, section 27 of the Evidence (Children) Act 1997 does not apply.Note—This section applies to proceedings before the Children’s Court because of section 27 of the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987.s 294C: Ins 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [18].
Division 2 Sexual assault communications privilege
ch 6, pt 5, div 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [125].
295 Interpretation
(1) Definitions In this Division:criminal proceedings means:(a) proceedings relating to the trial or sentencing of a person for an offence (whether or not a sexual assault offence), other than preliminary criminal proceedings, or(b) proceedings relating to an order under Part 15A (Apprehended violence) of the Crimes Act 1900.harm includes actual physical bodily harm, financial loss, stress or shock, damage to reputation or emotional or psychological harm (such as shame, humiliation and fear).preliminary criminal proceedings means any of the following:(a) committal proceedings,whether or not in relation to a sexual assault offence.(b) proceedings relating to bail (including proceedings during the trial or sentencing of a person),principal protected confider means the victim or alleged victim of a sexual assault offence by, to or about whom a protected confidence is made.protected confidence—see section 296.protected confider, in relation to a protected confidence, means:(a) the principal protected confider, or(b) any other person who made the protected confidence.sexual assault offence means:(a) a prescribed sexual offence, or(b) any other offence prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this definition.(2) Document recording a protected confidence In this Division, a reference to a document recording a protected confidence:(a) is a reference to any part of the document that records a protected confidence or any report, observation, opinion, advice, recommendation or other matter that relates to the protected confidence made by a protected confider, and(b) includes a reference to any copy, reproduction or duplicate of that part of the document.(3) Electronic documents For the purposes of this Division, if a document recording a protected confidence is stored electronically and a written document recording the protected confidence could be created by use of equipment that is usually available for retrieving or collating such stored information, the document stored electronically is to be dealt with as if it were a written document so created.s 295 (previously s 147): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [127]–[129]; 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [19] [20].
296 What is a protected confidence?
(1) In this Division:protected confidence means a counselling communication that is made by, to or about a victim or alleged victim of a sexual assault offence.(2) A counselling communication is a protected confidence for the purposes of this Division even if it:(a) was made before the acts constituting the relevant sexual assault offence occurred or are alleged to have occurred, or(b) was not made in connection with a sexual assault offence or alleged sexual assault offence or any condition arising from a sexual assault offence or alleged sexual assault offence.(3) For the purposes of this section, a communication may be made in confidence even if it is made in the presence of a third party if the third party is present to facilitate communication or to otherwise further the counselling process.(4) In this section:counselling communication means a communication:(a) made in confidence by a person (the counselled person) to another person (the counsellor) who is counselling the person in relation to any harm the person may have suffered, or(b) made in confidence to or about the counselled person by the counsellor in the course of that counselling, or(c) made in confidence about the counselled person by a counsellor or a parent, carer or other supportive person who is present to facilitate communication between the counselled person and the counsellor or to otherwise further the counselling process, or(d) made in confidence by or to the counsellor, by or to another counsellor or by or to a person who is counselling, or has at any time counselled, the person.(5) For the purposes of this section, a person counsels another person if:(a) the person has undertaken training or study or has experience that is relevant to the process of counselling persons who have suffered harm, and(b) the person:(i) listens to and gives verbal or other support or encouragement to the other person, orwhether or not for fee or reward.(ii) advises, gives therapy to or treats the other person,s 296 (previously s 148): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
297 Evidence of sexual assault communications not to be required to be produced, or adduced in or in connection with, preliminary criminal proceedings
(1) A person cannot be required (whether by subpoena or any other procedure) to produce a document recording a protected confidence in, or in connection with, any preliminary criminal proceedings.(2) Evidence is not to be adduced in any preliminary criminal proceedings if it would disclose:(a) a protected confidence, or(b) the contents of a document recording a protected confidence.s 297 (previously s 149): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126].
298 Evidence of sexual assault communications may be required to be produced in, or in connection with, criminal proceedings, or adduced, with leave
(1) A person who objects to production of a document recording a protected confidence on the ground that it is privileged under this Division cannot be required (whether by subpoena or any other procedure) to produce the document for inspection by a party in, or in connection with, any criminal proceedings unless:(a) the document is first produced for inspection by the court for the purposes of ruling on the objection, and(b) the court is satisfied (whether on inspection of the document or at some later stage in the proceedings) that:(i) the contents of the document will, either by themselves or having regard to other evidence adduced or to be adduced by the party seeking production of the document, have substantial probative value, and(ii) other evidence of the protected confidence or the contents of the document is not available, and(iii) the public interest in preserving the confidentiality of protected confidences and protecting the principal protected confider from harm is substantially outweighed by the public interest in allowing inspection of the document.(2) Without limiting the matters that the court may take into account for the purposes of subsection (1) (b) (iii), the court must take into account the likelihood, and the nature or extent, of harm that would be caused to the principal protected confider if the document is produced for inspection.(3) Evidence is not to be adduced in any criminal proceedings if it would disclose:(a) a protected confidence, orunless the court gives leave to adduce the evidence.(b) the contents of a document recording a protected confidence,(4) The court must not give leave to adduce evidence that discloses a protected confidence or the contents of a document recording a protected confidence unless the court is satisfied that:(a) the evidence will, either by itself or having regard to other evidence adduced or to be adduced by the party seeking to adduce the evidence, have substantial probative value, and(b) other evidence of the protected confidence or the contents of the document recording the protected confidence is not available, and(c) the public interest in preserving the confidentiality of protected confidences and protecting the principal protected confider from harm is substantially outweighed by the public interest in admitting into evidence information or the contents of a document of substantial probative value.(5) Without limiting the matters that the court may take into account for the purposes of subsection (4) (c), the court must take into account the likelihood, and the nature or extent, of harm that would be caused to the principal protected confider if the evidence that discloses the protected confidence or the contents of the document recording the protected confidence is adduced.(6) The court must state its reasons for requiring production or giving or refusing to give leave under this section.(7) A protected confider who is not a party to proceedings may, with the leave of the court, appear in the proceedings.(8) If there is a jury, the court is to hear and determine any objection or application referred to in subsection (1) or (3) in the absence of the jury.s 298 (previously s 150): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
299 Notice required before evidence is produced for inspection or adduced
(1) A document recording a protected confidence is not to be required to be produced for inspection by a party in, or in connection with, any criminal proceedings unless the party seeking production of the document has given reasonable notice in writing that production has been sought to:(a) each other party, and(b) if the protected confider is not a party—the protected confider.(2) Evidence disclosing a protected confidence or the contents of a document recording a protected confidence is not to be adduced in any criminal proceedings unless the party adducing the evidence has given reasonable notice in writing of the party’s intention to adduce the evidence to:(a) each other party, and(b) if the protected confider is not a party—the protected confider.(3) Notice given under this section to a protected confider who is not a party must:(a) advise the protected confider that he or she may, with the leave of the court, appear in the proceedings concerned, and(b) in the case of notice given under subsection (1) (b)—advise the protected confider of the day on which the document is (by the subpoena or other procedure concerned) to be produced, and(c) in the case of notice given under subsection (2) (b)—advise the protected confider of the day (if known) when the proceedings are to be heard.(4) It is sufficient compliance with a requirement under subsection (1) (b) or (2) (b) to give notice to a protected confider who is not a party and who is the principal protected confider if the party gives reasonable notice that the party has sought production, or of the party’s intention to adduce the evidence, to the informant and the informant gives, or uses the informant’s best endeavours to give, a copy of the notice to the principal protected confider within a reasonable time after the informant receives the notice.(5) Despite subsections (1) and (2), a document recording a protected confidence may, with the leave of the court, be required to be produced for inspection, or evidence disclosing a protected confidence or the contents of a document recording a protected confidence adduced, although notice has not been given to a protected confider who is not a party (not being the principal protected confider) as required by those subsections.(6) In this section:informant, in relation to criminal proceedings with respect to an offence, means the police officer who preferred the charge or instituted proceedings for the offence.s 299 (previously s 151): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [130].
300 Effect of consent
(1) This Division does not prevent the production of any document recording a protected confidence or the adducing of evidence disclosing a protected confidence or the contents of a document recording a protected confidence, in, or in connection with, any proceedings, if the principal protected confider to whom the proceedings relate has consented to the production of the document or adducing of the evidence.(2) Consent is not effective for the purposes of this section unless:(a) the consent is given in writing, and(b) the consent expressly relates to the production of a document or adducing of evidence that is privileged under this Division or would be so privileged except for a limitation or restriction imposed by this Division.s 300: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
301 Loss of sexual assault communications privilege: misconduct
(1) This Division does not prevent the adducing of evidence of a communication made, or the production or adducing of a document prepared, in the furtherance of the commission of a fraud or an offence or the commission of an act that renders a person liable to a civil penalty.(2) For the purposes of this section, if the commission of the fraud, offence or act is a fact in issue and there are reasonable grounds for finding that:(a) the fraud, offence or act was committed, andthe court may find that the communication was so made or document so prepared.(b) a communication was made or document prepared in furtherance of the commission of the fraud, offence or act,ss 301 (previously ss 152, 153): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
302 Ancillary orders
(1) Without limiting any action the court may take to limit the possible harm, or extent of the harm, likely to be caused by the disclosure of evidence of, or the contents of a document recording, a protected confidence, the court may:(a) order that all or part of the evidence be heard or document produced in camera, and(b) make such orders relating to the production and inspection of the document as, in the opinion of the court, are necessary to protect the safety and welfare of any protected confider, and(c) make such orders relating to the suppression of publication of all or part of the evidence given before the court as, in its opinion, are necessary to protect the safety and welfare of any protected confider, and(d) make such orders relating to disclosure of protected identity information as, in the opinion of the court, are necessary to protect the safety and welfare of any protected confider.(2) Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to make an order under section 106 or 119 of this Act or section 578A of the Crimes Act 1900.(3) In this section:protected identity information means information about, or enabling a person to ascertain, the private, business or official address, email address or telephone number of a protected confider.s 302 (previously s 154): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126].
303 Court to inform of rights to make applications and objections
If it appears to a court that a witness or a party may have grounds for making an application or objection under a provision of this Division, the court must satisfy itself (if there is a jury, in the absence of the jury) that the witness or party is aware of the effect of that provision.ss 303–306 (previously ss 155–157, 159): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
304 Court may inspect documents
If a question arises under this Division relating to a document, a court may order that the document be produced to it and may inspect the document for the purpose of determining the question.ss 303–306 (previously ss 155–157, 159): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
305 Inadmissibility of evidence that must not be adduced or given
Evidence that, because of this Division, must not be adduced or given in proceedings is not admissible in the proceedings.ss 303–306 (previously ss 155–157, 159): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
306 Application of common law
(1) This Division does not affect the operation of a principle or rule of the common law in relation to evidence in criminal proceedings, except so far as this Division provides otherwise expressly or by necessary intendment.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), this Division does not affect the operation of such a principle or rule so far as it relates to the inspection of a document required to be produced in, or in connection with, criminal proceedings.ss 303–306 (previously ss 155–157, 159): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [126]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [129].
Division 3 Special provisions relating to retrials of sexual offence proceedings
ch 6, pt 5, div 3: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1].
306A Definitions
In this Division:accused person, in relation to any proceedings, means the person who stands, or any of the persons who stand, charged in those proceedings with a prescribed sexual offence.complainant, in relation to any proceedings, means the person, or any of the persons, against whom a prescribed sexual offence with which the accused person stands charged in those proceedings is alleged to have been committed, and includes:(a) in relation to an offence under section 80E of the Crimes Act 1900, the person who is alleged to have been the subject of sexual servitude, and(b) in relation to an offence under section 91D, 91E or 91F of the Crimes Act 1900, the person under the age of 18 years who is alleged to have participated in an act of child prostitution, and(c) in relation to an offence under section 91G of the Crimes Act 1900, the person under the age of 18 years who is alleged to have been used for pornographic purposes.original evidence of the complainant has the meaning given by section 306B.s 306A: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1]. Am 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [21]–[23].
306B Admission of evidence of complainant in new trial proceedings
(1) If a person is convicted of a prescribed sexual offence and, on an appeal against the conviction, a new trial is ordered, the prosecutor may tender as evidence in the new trial proceedings a record of the original evidence of the complainant.(2) For the purposes of this Division, the original evidence of the complainant means all evidence given by the complainant in the proceedings from which the conviction arose (referred to in this Division as the original proceedings), including the evidence given by the complainant on examination in chief in the original proceedings and any further evidence given on cross-examination or re-examination in those proceedings.(3) Despite anything to the contrary in the Evidence Act 1995, or any other Act or law, a record of the original evidence of the complainant is admissible in the new trial proceedings if:(a) the prosecutor gives written notice to the accused person, in accordance with the regulations, of the prosecutor’s intention to tender the record under this section, and(b) the prosecutor gives written notice to the court of the prosecutor’s intention to tender the record under this section, and(c) the notices referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) are given no less than 21 days before the court commences hearing the new trial proceedings or within such other period as the court may allow.(4) The hearsay rule (within the meaning of the Evidence Act 1995) does not prevent the admission of a record of the original evidence of the complainant under this Division or the use of that record to prove the existence of a fact that the complainant intended to assert by a representation made in the original evidence.(5) The court hearing the new trial proceedings does not have any discretion to decline to admit a record of the original evidence of the complainant if it is admissible under this Division.(6) However, the court may give directions requiring a record of the original evidence of the complainant to be altered or edited for the purpose of removing any statements that would not be admissible if the original evidence of the complainant had been given orally before the court hearing the new trial proceedings in accordance with the usual rules and practice of the court.(7) In addition, a record of the original evidence of the complainant may be altered or edited in accordance with an agreement between the prosecutor and the accused person or his or her counsel (if any).(8) This Division applies in respect of proceedings for a new trial in which a person stands charged with a prescribed sexual offence whether or not the person stands charged with that offence alone or together with any other offence (as an additional or alternative count) and whether or not the person is liable, on the charge, to be found guilty of any other offence.(9) This Division extends to proceedings for a new trial ordered before the commencement of this Division, including new trial proceedings that have been commenced or partly heard.s 306B: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1]. Am 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [24].
306C Complainant not compellable to give further evidence
If a record of the original evidence of the complainant (or any part of the record) is admitted in proceedings under this Division, the complainant is not compellable to give any further evidence in the proceedings (despite anything to the contrary in this Act or the Evidence Act 1995), including for the purpose of any examination in chief, cross-examination or re-examination by or at the request of the accused person or his or her counsel.ss 306C–306G: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1].
306D Complainant may elect to give further evidence
(1) If a record of the original evidence of the complainant (or any part of the record) is admitted in proceedings under this Division, the complainant may, with leave of the court hearing the proceedings, and only if the complainant so chooses, give further oral evidence in the proceedings.(2) The court is to give leave to the complainant to give such further evidence in the proceedings only if the court is satisfied, on application by one of the parties to the proceedings, that it is necessary for the complainant to give further oral evidence:(a) to clarify any matters relating to the original evidence of the complainant, or(b) to canvas information or material that has become available since the original proceedings, or(c) in the interests of justice.(3) The court is to ensure that the complainant is questioned by any party to the proceedings only in relation to matters that are relevant to the reasons for the grant of leave by the court.(4) Subject to subsection (3), if a complainant gives any further oral evidence under this section, the complainant is compellable (for the prosecution or the accused person) to give evidence. This applies despite section 306C.ss 306C–306G: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1].
306E Form in which record of original evidence of complainant is to be tendered
(1) A record of the original evidence of the complainant tendered by the prosecutor under this Division must be the best available record, or be comprised of the best available records, of the original evidence of the complainant, and the record or records concerned must be properly authenticated.(2) For the purposes of this section, the best available record of the evidence, or any part of the evidence, given by a complainant is:(a) an audio visual recording of the evidence, or(b) if an audio visual recording of the evidence is not available, an audio recording of the evidence, or(c) if neither an audio visual recording nor an audio recording of the evidence is available, a transcript of the evidence.(3) If the whole or part of the evidence given by the complainant in the original proceedings was given in the form of a recording made by an investigating official, as provided for by the Evidence (Children) Act 1997, the best available record of that evidence is the recording viewed or heard by the court in those original proceedings.(4) A record of any evidence given by a complainant is properly authenticated for the purposes of this section if:(a) the record has been authenticated by the court before which the evidence concerned was given or by the registrar or other proper officer of that court in accordance with any directions of the court, or(b) the record has been authenticated by the person or body responsible for producing the record, or(c) the record has been authenticated in any other manner prescribed by the regulations.ss 306C–306G: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1].
306F Access to audio visual or audio recording
(1) If a record of the original evidence of the complainant tendered or proposed to be tendered by the prosecutor under this Division is an audio visual recording or audio recording, the accused person, and his or her counsel (if any), are not entitled to be given possession of the record or a copy of it (despite anything to the contrary in this Act or the Evidence Act 1995).(2) However, the accused person and his or her counsel (if any) are to be given reasonable access to the recording to enable them to listen to it and, if the record is an audio visual recording, view it.(3) This may require access to be given on more than one occasion.(4) The regulations may make provision for the procedures to be followed in connection with the giving of access under this section, and may provide for the giving of access to other persons assisting the accused person or his or her counsel.ss 306C–306G: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1].
306G Exhibits may also be tendered
(1) If a record of the original evidence of a complainant is tendered by the prosecutor under this Division, any exhibits tendered in the original proceedings on the basis of the original evidence of the complainant and admitted in the original proceedings are also admissible in the new trial proceedings as if the original evidence of the complainant had been given orally before the court hearing the new trial proceedings in accordance with the usual rules and practice of the court.(2) This section does not prevent any other exhibits tendered in the original proceedings from being tendered and admitted in the new trial proceedings in accordance with the usual rules and practice of the court hearing the new trial proceedings.ss 306C–306G: Ins 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [1].
Chapter 7 Miscellaneous
ch 7, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [132].
Part 1 General
ch 7, pt 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [132].
307 No court fees to be taken from accused persons
(1) This section applies to criminal proceedings in any court in respect of any offence.(2) Despite subsection (1), this section does not apply to:(a) proceedings for a summary offence for which a penalty notice has been issued as referred to in section 20 of the Fines Act 1996, but in respect of which the accused person has elected to have the matter dealt with by a court under section 36 of that Act, or(b) proceedings that are brought in a court for the purpose of appealing against, or obtaining a review of, some other court’s order or decision in proceedings for a summary offence.(3) No court fees are payable:(a) for the issuing of any process on behalf of the accused person, orin connection with criminal proceedings to which this section applies.(b) for the recording of any appearance or plea made by the accused person,s 307 (previously s 120): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [133].
308 Witnesses neglecting to attend trial captured under warrant may be admitted to bail
If a person bound by a bail undertaking, or served with a subpoena, to attend as a witness in any court at a trial:(a) fails to appear when called in open court, either at such trial, or on the day appointed for such trial, andbail may be taken before any authorised officer for his or her appearance at the trial.(b) is arrested under a warrant issued by the court,s 308 (previously s 121): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [133]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [134].
309 Certificate as to indictment
(1) If an indictment has been filed in the Supreme Court or the District Court against any person not in custody, the proper officer of the Court must, if the person indicted fails to appear and plead to the indictment at any time during the sittings of the Court, issue a certificate that the indictment has been filed.(2) The certificate may only be issued on the application of the prosecutor or a person applying on the prosecutor’s behalf.ss 309–312: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
310 Warrants that may be issued on production of certificate
(1) If the certificate under section 309 is produced to a Magistrate or an authorised officer, the Magistrate or authorised officer may issue a warrant under this section.(2) If the person who has been indicted is imprisoned or otherwise in custody in relation to another offence, the Magistrate or authorised officer may issue a warrant directed to the person who has custody of the person requiring the person to be detained until the person is removed from custody for trial or otherwise lawfully removed or discharged from custody.(3) The warrant must not be issued unless proof on oath is given that the person who is in custody is the person who has been indicted.(4) If the person who has been indicted is not in custody, the Magistrate or authorised officer may issue a warrant to arrest the person.(5) Part 4 of Chapter 4 applies to a warrant issued under this section.ss 309–312: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
311 Procedure after arrest
(1) A person who is arrested under a warrant issued under section 310 must be brought before a Magistrate or an authorised officer as soon as practicable.(2) The Magistrate or authorised officer must, if bail is not dispensed with or granted:(a) by warrant commit the accused person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) order the person to be brought before the Supreme Court or District Court for trial.(3) The Magistrate or authorised officer must give notice of the specified time and place to the prosecutor.(4) Part 4 of Chapter 4 applies to a warrant of commitment issued under this section.ss 309–312: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
312 Persons arrested under bench warrants
(1) A Magistrate, an authorised officer or authorised justice (within the meaning of the Bail Act 1978) before whom a person is brought after having been arrested under a bench warrant issued by a Judge in criminal proceedings must, if bail is not dispensed with or granted:(a) by warrant commit the person to a correctional centre or other place of security, and(b) order the person to be brought before the court out of which the bench warrant was issued in accordance with the terms of the warrant.(2) The Bail Act 1978 applies to the person (not being an accused person) in the same way as it applies to an accused person and, for that purpose, bail may be granted to the person with respect to the period between:(a) the person’s being committed under this section, and(b) the person’s being brought before the court out of which the bench warrant was issued.(3) In this section:judge includes a Magistrate, a Children’s Court Magistrate, a Licensing Magistrate, a warden of a Warden’s Court, the President or a judicial member of the Industrial Relations Commission and an Industrial Magistrate and any other person of a class prescribed for the purposes of this definition.ss 309–312: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
313 Warrants
(1) A printed representation of a seal or signature on a warrant issued under this Act or any other Act is sufficient to comply with a requirement under this or any other Act that a warrant be sealed or signed.(2) A copy of a warrant issued under this Act or any other Act (being a copy produced by means of a photographic or electronic process or facsimile transmission) is:(a) as valid and effectual as the original warrant, and(b) confers the same functions as the original warrant.s 313: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135]. Am 2002 No 99, Sch 1.2 [11]–[15].
314 Media access to court documents
(1) On application to the registrar, a media representative is entitled to inspect any document relating to criminal proceedings, at any time from when the proceedings commence until the expiry of 2 working days after they are finally disposed of, for the purpose of compiling a fair report of the proceedings for publication.(2) The documents that a media representative is entitled to inspect under this section are copies of the indictment, court attendance notice or other document commencing the proceedings, witnesses’ statements tendered as evidence, brief of evidence, police fact sheet (in the case of a guilty plea), transcripts of evidence and any record of a conviction or an order.(3) The registrar is not required to make documents available for inspection if the documents are not in the possession or control of the registrar.(4) The registrar must not make documents available for inspection if:(a) the proceedings are subject to an order prohibiting their publication or a suppression order, or(b) the documents are prohibited from being published or disclosed by or under any other Act or law.(4A) This section does not limit the operation of any other Act or law under which a person may be permitted to inspect documents relating to criminal proceedings.(5) (Repealed)s 314: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135]. Am 2003 No 85, Sch 4 [2]–[5]; 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [25].
315 Savings, transitional and other provisions
Schedule 2 has effect.ss 315–317: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
316 Provisions relating to offences
Schedule 3 has effect.ss 315–317: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
317 Bail Act 1978 to prevail
Except where expressly provided, the Bail Act 1978 prevails to the extent of any inconsistency between that Act and this Act.ss 315–317: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [135].
317A Courts to deal expeditiously with persons arrested for sentencing
A court that issues a warrant for the arrest of a person to be brought before the court for sentencing must, after the person is arrested and brought before the court, deal with the proceedings as expeditiously as possible.s 317A: Ins 2003 No 84, Sch 2.
Part 2
318–331 (Repealed)
ch 7, pt 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [136]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
ch 7, pt 2, div 1, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [136]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
s 318: Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [137]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
ss 319 (previously ss 133, 134): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [137]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
s 320 (previously s 135): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [137]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [8]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
s 321 (previously s 136): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [137]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [9]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
s 322 (previously s 137): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [137]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [138]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
s 323 (previously s 138): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [137]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
ch 7, pt 2, div 2, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [139]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
ss 324–331 (previously ss 139–146): Renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [140]. Rep 2002 No 103, Sch 4.20 (am 2004 No 91, Sch 2.43).
Part 3 Penalty notice offences
ch 7, pt 3 (previously Part 8): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
332 Definitions
(1) In this Part:penalty notice offence means an offence prescribed by the regulations under this Part as a penalty notice offence.senior police officer means:(a) a Local Area Commander of Police, or(b) a Duty Officer for a police station, or(c) any other police officer of the rank of Inspector or above.(2) (Repealed)s 332 (previously s 160): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [10].
333 Police may issue penalty notices for certain offences
A police officer may serve a penalty notice on a person if it appears to the officer that the person has committed a penalty notice offence.Note—This Part does not require a police officer to serve a penalty notice rather than taking any other action (see section 342 (3)).s 333 (previously s 161): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [11].
334 Penalty notices
(1) A penalty notice is a notice to the effect that, if the person served does not wish to have the matter determined by a court, the person can pay, within the time and to the person specified in the notice, the amount of the penalty prescribed by the regulations for the offence if dealt with under this Part.(2) A penalty notice must be served personally.ss 334–337 (previously ss 162–165): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
335 Penalty notices may not be issued to children
(1) A penalty notice may not be issued under this Part to a person who is under the age of 18 years.(2) If a penalty notice is issued under this Part to a person who is under the age of 18 years, the following provisions have effect:(a) The amount that was payable under the notice is not payable.(b) Any amount that is paid under the notice is repayable to the person by whom it is paid.(c) Further proceedings in respect of the alleged offence may be taken against any person (including the person on whom the notice was served) as if the notice had never been served.(3) Nothing in this section requires further proceedings to be taken in respect of an alleged offence if a penalty notice is issued to a person who is under the age of 18 years.ss 334–337 (previously ss 162–165): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
336 Penalty notice offences
(1) The regulations may prescribe an offence under any Act or statutory rule made under an Act as a penalty notice offence for the purposes of penalty notices served by police officers under this Part.(2) Any such regulation may specify the offence or refer to the provision creating the offence.ss 334–337 (previously ss 162–165): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
337 Penalties
(1) The regulations may:(a) prescribe the penalty payable for a penalty notice offence dealt with under this Part, and(b) prescribe different penalties for different offences or classes of offences, and(c) prescribe different penalties for the same penalty notice offence.(2) The amount of a penalty prescribed for a penalty notice offence is not to exceed the maximum amount of penalty that could be imposed for the offence by a court.ss 334–337 (previously ss 162–165): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
338 Effect of payment of penalty
(1) If the amount of penalty prescribed for an alleged penalty notice offence is paid, no person is liable to any further proceedings for the alleged offence.(2) Payment of a penalty under this Part is not to be regarded as an admission of liability for the purpose of, and does not in any way affect or prejudice, any civil claim, action or proceeding arising out of the same occurrence.(3) This section is subject to sections 335 and 340.Note—The Fines Act 1996 sets out the procedures if a person fails to pay a penalty under a penalty notice and for the annulment of resulting fine enforcement orders.s 338 (previously ss 166): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [12].
339 Limitation on exercise of penalty notice powers
This Part does not authorise a police officer to serve a penalty notice in relation to:(a) an industrial dispute, or(b) an apparently genuine demonstration or protest, or(c) a procession, or(d) an organised assembly.ss 339–341 (previously ss 167–169): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
340 Withdrawal of penalty notice
(1) A senior police officer may withdraw a penalty notice issued by a police officer before the due date for payment under the notice under this Part.(2) A senior police officer must withdraw a penalty notice immediately if directed to do so by the Director of Public Prosecutions.(3) The following provisions have effect in relation to an alleged offence if a penalty notice for the alleged offence is withdrawn in accordance with this section:(a) The amount that was payable under the notice ceases to be payable.(b) Any amount that has been paid under the notice is repayable to the person by whom it was paid.(c) Further proceedings in respect of the alleged offence may be taken against any person (including the person on whom the notice was served) as if the notice had never been served.(4) Nothing in this section requires further proceedings to be taken in respect of an alleged offence if a penalty notice is withdrawn.(5) For the purposes of section 39 of the Fines Act 1996, the appropriate officer is a senior police officer.ss 339–341 (previously ss 167–169): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
341 Powers relating to identity
(1) A police officer who intends to issue a penalty notice, under this Part, to a person whose name or address is, or name and address are, unknown to the officer may request the person to state his or her name or address (or both).(2) A police officer may make a request under subsection (1) only if at the time of making the request the police officer:(a) provides evidence to the person that he or she is a police officer (unless the police officer is in uniform), and(b) provides his or her name and place of duty, and(c) informs the person of the reason for the request, and(d) warns the person that failure to comply with the request may be an offence.(3) A person must not, without reasonable excuse, (proof of which lies on the person), in response to a request made by a police officer in accordance with subsections (1) and (2):(a) fail or refuse to comply with the request, or(b) state a name that is false in a material particular, or(c) state an address other than the full and correct address of his or her residence.Maximum penalty: 2 penalty units.(4) A police officer may request a person to provide proof of the person’s name and address.(5) Nothing in this section limits any functions that police officers may have apart from this section.ss 339–341 (previously ss 167–169): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
342 Effect of Part on other procedures and powers
(1) This Part (except as provided by section 338) does not limit the operation of any other provision of, or made under, this or any other Act relating to proceedings that may be taken in respect of offences.(2) Nothing in this Part limits any functions that police officers have apart from this Part (including the power to issue a penalty notice under any other Act or statutory rule).(3) Nothing in this Part requires a police officer to issue a penalty notice instead of taking any other proceeding or action a police officer may take in respect of an alleged offence.s 342 (previously s 170): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2]. Am 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [13].
343 Limited implementation of penalty notice provisions
(1) The regulations may limit the application of the provisions of this Part to offences dealt with in a specified part or parts of New South Wales for a specified period or periods.(2) If a regulation is made under this section, the application of the Part is limited as specified by the regulation even though the specified provisions of this Part have commenced.s 343: Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
344 Monitoring of Part by Ombudsman
(1) For the period of 12 months after the commencement of this section, the Ombudsman is to keep under scrutiny the operation of the provisions of this Part and the regulations made under this Part and sections 353AC and 353AE (in so far as it relates to the exercise of powers under section 353AC) of the Crimes Act 1900.(2) For that purpose, the Ombudsman may require the Commissioner of Police or any public authority to provide information about police or the public authority’s participation in the operation of the provisions referred to in subsection (1).(3) The Ombudsman must, as soon as practicable after the expiration of that 12-month period, prepare a report on the Ombudsman’s work and activities under this section and furnish a copy of the report to the Minister, the Minister for Police and the Commissioner of Police.(4) The Ombudsman may identify, and include recommendations in the report to be considered by the Minister about, amendments that might appropriately be made to this Act with respect to the operation of the provisions referred to in subsection (1).(5) The Minister is to lay (or cause to be laid) a copy of the report furnished to the Minister under this section before both Houses of Parliament as soon as practicable after the Minister receives the report.(6) If a House of Parliament is not sitting when the Minister seeks to lay a report before it, the Minister may present copies of the report to the Clerk of the House concerned.(7) The report:(a) on presentation and for all purposes is taken to have been laid before the House, and(b) may be printed by authority of the Clerk of the House, and(c) if printed by authority of the Clerk, is for all purposes taken to be a document published by or under the authority of the House, and(d) is to be recorded:(i) in the case of the Legislative Council, in the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Legislative Council andon the first sitting day of the House after receipt of the report by the Clerk.(ii) in the case of the Legislative Assembly, in the Votes and Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly,ss 344 (previously ss 171, 172): Renumbered 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [2].
Part 4 Intervention programs
Note—
This Part provides for the recognition and operation of certain programs for dealing with accused persons and offenders, known as intervention programs. An accused person or offender may be referred for participation in an intervention program at several points in criminal proceedings against the person, as follows:
(a) a court that grants bail to a person may impose a condition of bail under section 36A of the Bail Act 1978 that the person enter into an agreement to subject himself or herself to an assessment of the person’s capacity and prospects for participation in an intervention program or other program for treatment or rehabilitation, or that the person enter into an agreement to participate in an intervention program (and to comply with any plan arising out of the program) or other program for treatment or rehabilitation,
(b) a court may adjourn criminal proceedings against a person before any finding as to guilt is made and grant bail to the person for the purpose of assessing the person’s capacity and prospects for participation in an intervention program or to allow the person to participate in an intervention program (and to comply with any plan arising out of the program) under this Act,
(c) a court that finds a person guilty of an offence may make an order requiring the person to participate in an intervention program (and to comply with any plan arising out of the program) under section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999,
(d) participation in an intervention program (and compliance with any plan arising out of the program) may be made a condition of a good behaviour bond under section 9 or 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, or of a suspended sentence under section 12 of that Act,
(e) sentencing of an offender may be deferred for the purpose of assessing an offender for participation in an intervention program, or for allowing an offender to participate in an intervention program (and to comply with any plan arising out of the program) under section 11 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999.
ch 7, pt 4 (previously Part 9): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
Division 1 Preliminary
345 Objects
(1) The objects of this Part are:(a) to provide a framework for the recognition and operation of programs of certain alternative measures for dealing with persons who have committed an offence or are alleged to have committed an offence, and(b) to ensure that such programs apply fairly to all persons who are eligible to participate in them, and that such programs are properly managed and administered, and(c) to reduce the likelihood of future offending behaviour by facilitating participation in such programs.(2) In enacting this Part, Parliament recognises that:(a) the rights of victims should be protected and maintained in accordance with the Charter of Victims Rights set out in the Victims Rights Act 1996, and(b) the successful rehabilitation of offenders contributes to the maintenance of a safe, peaceful and just society.s 345 (previously s 173): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
346 Definitions
(1) In this Part:intervention plan means a plan, agreement or arrangement arising out of the participation of an offender or an accused person in an intervention program.intervention program means a program of measures declared to be an intervention program under section 347.(2) Notes included in this Part are explanatory notes and do not form part of this Part.s 346: Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3]. Am 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
Division 2 Intervention programs
347 Declaration and regulation of intervention programs
(1) The regulations may declare that a program of measures for dealing with offenders or accused persons that is described in the regulations is an intervention program for the purposes of this Part.(2) The purposes of such a program may include any of the following:(a) promoting the treatment or rehabilitation of offenders or accused persons,(b) promoting respect for the law and the maintenance of a just and safe community,(c) encouraging and facilitating the provision by offenders of appropriate forms of remedial actions to victims and the community,(d) promoting the acceptance by offenders of accountability and responsibility for their behaviour,(e) promoting the reintegration of offenders into the community.(3) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the following matters:(a) subject to section 348, the offences in respect of which an intervention program may be conducted,(b) subject to section 349, eligibility to participate in an intervention program,(c) the nature and content of the measures constituting an intervention program,(d) the purposes and objectives of an intervention program, and the principles guiding an intervention program,(e) assessment of the suitability of a person to participate in an intervention program, or of a person’s capacity or prospects for participation in an intervention program,(f) the conduct of investigations and the preparation of reports as to a person’s suitability, capacity or prospects for participation in an intervention program,(g) the provision of reports as to a person’s suitability, capacity or prospects for participation in an intervention program,(h) the persons, bodies or organisations who may participate in an intervention program or intervention plan (in addition to the offender or accused person),(i) the role of particular persons, bodies or organisations in the conduct of an intervention program or intervention plan,(j) restrictions or conditions on participation in an intervention program (including legal representation of offenders or accused persons who participate in an intervention program),(k) the development and implementation of intervention plans arising out of an intervention program, including restrictions or conditions on intervention plans,(l) procedures for notification of courts or other persons, bodies or organisations of a decision of a person not to participate in, or to continue to participate in, an intervention program or intervention plan,(m) the content and keeping of records in connection with an intervention program or intervention plan,(n) the monitoring and evaluation of, or research into, the operation and effect of an intervention program or intervention plan,(o) the issuing of guidelines with respect to the conduct or operation of an intervention program or intervention plan,(p) authorising the participation of persons who are in custody in an intervention program or intervention plan,(q) any other matter relating to the conduct or operation of an intervention program or intervention plan.(4) The operation of an intervention program may be limited by the regulations to a specified part or parts of New South Wales, or for a specified period or periods (or both).(5) Nothing in this section prevents the development, conduct or operation of programs of measures for the treatment or rehabilitation of offenders or accused persons that are not intervention programs.ss 347 (previously ss 174, 175): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3]. Am 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
348 Offences in respect of which an intervention program may be conducted
(1) The offences in respect of which an intervention program may be conducted are, except as provided by subsection (2):(a) summary offences, and(b) indictable offences that may be dealt with summarily under this Act or another law prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this subsection.(2) An intervention program may not be conducted in respect of any of the following offences:(a) an offence under section 35 (Malicious wounding or infliction of grievous bodily harm) or 35A (1) (Maliciously cause dog to inflict grievous bodily harm) of the Crimes Act 1900,(b) an offence under Division 10 (Offences in the nature of rape, offences relating to other acts of sexual assault etc) or 15 (Child prostitution and pornography) of Part 3 of the Crimes Act 1900,(c) an offence under section 562AB (Stalking or intimidation with intent to cause fear of physical or mental harm) of the Crimes Act 1900,(d) an offence under section 91H (Production, dissemination or possession of child pornography), 578B (Possession of child pornography) or 578C (2A) (Publishing child pornography) of the Crimes Act 1900,(e) any offence involving the use of a firearm,(f) an offence under section 23 (1) (b) or (2) (b) (Offences with respect to prohibited plants), 25 (Supply of prohibited drugs) or 25A (Offence of supplying prohibited drugs on an ongoing basis) of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985,(g) any other offence prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this subsection.s 348 (previously s 176): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3]. Am 2004 No 95, Sch 2.4 [1].
349 Eligibility of certain persons to participate in intervention program
A person is not eligible to participate in an intervention program in respect of an offence while the person is being dealt with for the offence:(a) by the Children’s Court under Part 3 (Criminal proceedings in the Children’s Court) of the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987 (including after the person has been remitted to the Children’s Court under section 20 of that Act), or(b) by any other court in accordance with Division 4 of Part 3 of that Act.ss 349–352 (previously ss 177–180): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
Division 3 Adjournment of criminal proceedings in connection with intervention program
350 Court may adjourn proceedings to allow accused person to be assessed for or to participate in intervention program
(1) Before a finding as to the guilt of an accused person in respect of an offence is made, a court may make an order adjourning proceedings against the accused person to a specified date, and granting bail to the person in accordance with the Bail Act 1978, for either or both of the following purposes:(a) assessing the person’s capacity and prospects for participation in an intervention program,(b) allowing the person to participate in an intervention program.Note—Section 36A of the Bail Act 1978 enables a court to grant bail to a person on either or both of the following conditions:(a) that the person enter into an agreement to subject himself or herself to an assessment of the person’s capacity and prospects for participation in an intervention program or other program for treatment or rehabilitation,(b) that the person enter into an agreement to:(i) participate in an intervention program and to comply with any intervention plan arising out of the program, or(ii) participate in any other program for treatment or rehabilitation.(2) The maximum period for which proceedings may be adjourned under this section is 12 months from the date of the making of the order.(3) This section does not limit any power that a court has, apart from this section, to adjourn proceedings or to grant bail in relation to any period of adjournment.(4) This section does not limit the kinds of purposes for which a court may adjourn proceedings or grant bail, so that an order adjourning proceedings may be made for the purpose of allowing an offender to participate in a program for treatment or rehabilitation that is not an intervention program.ss 349–352 (previously ss 177–180): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
Division 4 Miscellaneous
351 Regulations with respect to the provision or disclosure of information in connection with intervention programs
(1) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the provision or disclosure of information in connection with an intervention program or intervention plan to a court or other person, body or organisation.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the regulations may make provision for or with respect to the following matters:(a) the admissibility of such information in evidence in any criminal or civil proceedings, including the admissibility in evidence of any statement, confession, admission or information made or given by an offender or accused person during participation in, or for the purposes of participation in, an intervention program or intervention plan,(b) the protection of a person, body or organisation from civil or criminal liability or disciplinary proceedings resulting from the provision of such information,(c) the compellability of a person, body or organisation to disclose such information or to produce a document containing such information before a court, tribunal or committee.(3) A provision of any Act or law that prohibits or restricts the disclosure of information does not operate to prevent the provision of information referred to in subsection (1) in accordance with the regulations.(4) The regulations made under this section may create offences punishable by a penalty not exceeding 50 penalty units.ss 349–352 (previously ss 177–180): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
352 Relationship with other legislation
(1) The Bail Act 1978 prevails in the event of an inconsistency between that Act and this Part.(2) This Part does not affect any jurisdiction conferred on any court under any other Act or law.(3) This Part does not derogate from the functions of any person or court dealing with an offence or alleged offence to take any other action in relation to an offence or alleged offence, under any other Act or law.ss 349–352 (previously ss 177–180): Renumbered 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [3].
Schedule 1 Indictable offences triable summarily
sch 1, hdg: Ins 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [62].
Table 1A General provisions
sch 1, tbl 1A: Ins 2003 No 5, Sch 2.
1A Interpretation: value of property
For the purposes of this Schedule, a reference to the amount of damage to property in connection with a charge for an offence against section 195 or 197 of the Crimes Act 1900 is a reference to the total value of the property where the damage consists of removing, obliterating, defacing or altering the unique identifier of the property.
Table 1 Indictable offences that are to be dealt with summarily unless prosecutor or person charged elects otherwise
sch 1, tbl 1, hdg (previously pt 9A, Table 1, heading): Transferred 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [63]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [14].
sch 1, tbl 1 (previously pt 9A, Table 1): Transferred 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [63]. Am 1998 No 158, Sch 2.12 (am 1999 No 94, Sch 4.67); 1999 No 94, Schs 2 [64] [65], 4.98 [4]–[6]; 2000 No 43, Sch 5 [2]; 2000 No 90, Sch 5 [1]; 2000 No 92, Sch 8.4; 2000 No 107, Sch 2; 2001 No 20, Sch 2; 2001 No 30, Sch 5.1; 2001 No 56, Sch 2.16; 2001 No 84, Sch 2.3 [1]–[3]; 2001 No 117, Sch 7 [10]; 2002 No 24, Sch 2; 2002 No 45, Sch 2 [2]; 2002 No 47, Sch 3.1 [2]; 2002 No 135, Sch 2 [2]; 2003 No 27, Sch 8 [8] [9]; 2003 No 82, Sch 2.9 [14]; 2003 No 85, Sch 4 [6]; 2003 No 92, Sch 3.1 [3]; 2004 No 41, Sch 2; 2004 No 49, Sch 3 [2]; 2004 No 95, Sch 2.4 [2]; 2004 No 112, Sch 6.3; 2005 No 74, Sch 2.1 [2].
Part 1 Offences against the person under Crimes Act 1900
1 Offences against the person where victim 14 years of age or over
An offence under section 61E, 66C (1) (as in force before the commencement of Schedule 1 [9] to the Crimes Amendment (Sexual Offences) Act 2003), 66C (3) (as in force after the commencement of Schedule 1 [9] to the Crimes Amendment (Sexual Offences) Act 2003), 66D, 71, 72, 76, 76A or 81 of the Crimes Act 1900 where the person against whom the offence was committed was at the time of the commission of the offence of or above the age of 14 years.
2 Other offences against the person
An offence under section 31, 31C, 33B (1), 35, 35A (1), 39, 41, 41A, 43, 43A, 44, 49, 51A, 52A (other than an offence by which death was occasioned), 52B (other than an offence by which death was occasioned), 53, 54, 55, 57, 60 (2), 60A (2), 60E (2), 61M, 61O (2), 78Q, 80, 81A, 81B, 81C, 82, 83, 84, 85 (where the person charged is the mother of the child and is not charged with any other person), 90, 91, 91A, 91B, 91H, 92 or 93 of the Crimes Act 1900.
Part 2 Offences relating to property under Crimes Act 1900 or common law
3 Larceny and other offences exceeding $5,000
Any of the following offences where the value of the property, matter or thing, or the damage, or the amount of money or reward, in respect of which the offence is charged exceeds $5,000:(a) larceny, or(b) an offence of stealing any chattel, money or valuable security from another person (eg section 94 of the Crimes Act 1900), or(c) an offence under section 3B, 125, 126, 131, 132, 133, 139, 140, 148, 150, 151, 152, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 178A, 178B, 178BA, 178BB, 178C, 179, 184, 185, 185A, 186, 188, 189, 189A, 190, 192 or 195 of the Crimes Act 1900.
4 Offences taken to be, or punishable as, larceny or stealing
Any offence that under the Crimes Act 1900 is taken to be, or is made punishable as, larceny or stealing (other than an offence under section 125, 139, 140 or 154A of that Act).
5 Breaking and entering place of Divine worship with intent to commit serious indictable offence
An offence under section 107 (1) of the Crimes Act 1900.
6 Entering with intent to commit serious indictable offence, or commit serious indictable offence, in dwelling-house and breaking out
An offence under section 109 (1) of the Crimes Act 1900 where:(a) the serious indictable offence intended is stealing or maliciously destroying or damaging property, or(b) the serious indictable offence alleged is stealing or maliciously destroying or damaging property and the value of the property stolen or destroyed, or the value of the damage to the property, does not exceed $15,000.
7 Entering dwelling-house in the night or breaking and entering any house or other building with intent to commit serious indictable offence
An offence under section 111 (1) or 113 (1) of the Crimes Act 1900 where the serious indictable offence intended is stealing or maliciously destroying or damaging property.
8 Breaking and entering into, or being in, any house or other building and committing serious indictable offence
An offence under section 112 (1) of the Crimes Act 1900 where:(a) the serious indictable offence alleged is stealing or maliciously destroying or damaging property, and(b) the value of the property stolen or destroyed, or the value of the damage to the property, does not exceed $15,000.
9 Other property offences
An offence under section 99, 100, 100A, 102, 114 (1) (a), (c) and (d), 115, 135, 138, 153, 154AA, 154B (1), 154C, 154D, 165, 166, 168, 169, 170, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 176A, 181, 184A, 196, 197, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203 or 203C of the Crimes Act 1900.
9A Bushfires
An offence under section 203E of the Crimes Act 1900.
Part 3 Other offences under Crimes Act 1900 or the common law
10 Offences relating to public order
An offence under section 93B or 93C of the Crimes Act 1900.
10A Offences relating to contamination of goods
An offence under section 93IB, 93IC or 93ID of the Crimes Act 1900.
10B Offences relating to bomb and other hoaxes
An offence under section 93IH or 93II of the Crimes Act 1900.
11 Offences relating to transport services
An offence under section 207, 208 (4), 209, 210, 212 or 213 of the Crimes Act 1900.
12 Corrupt practices
(1) An offence under section 249B, 249D or 249E of the Crimes Act 1900, or an offence under section 249F of that Act of aiding, abetting, counselling, procuring, soliciting or inciting such an offence, where the benefit in respect of which the offence is charged exceeds $5,000.(2) An offence under section 249C of the Crimes Act 1900 or an offence under section 249F of that Act of aiding, abetting, counselling, procuring, soliciting or inciting such an offence.
13 False instruments
An offence under section 300, 301 or 302 of the Crimes Act 1900 (other than an offence listed in clause 4B of Table 2 to this Schedule) or an offence under section 302A of that Act.
14 Offences relating to computers
An offence under section 308C (where the serious indictable offence to be committed is punishable by imprisonment for 10 years or less), 308D, 308E, 308F or 308G of the Crimes Act 1900.
15 Public justice offences
(1) Public justice offences not involving intent to procure conviction or acquittal An offence under section 321, 322, 323 or 333 (1) of the Crimes Act 1900 unless the person charged intended to procure the conviction or acquittal of any person of any serious offence.(2) Other public justice offences An offence under section 314, 315, 315A, 316, 317, 325, 326, 327, 330, 335, 336 or 337 of the Crimes Act 1900.
15A Offence relating to recruiting children
An offence under section 351A of the Crimes Act 1900.
16 Escape from lawful custody
(1) Escape from lawful custody.(2) An offence under section 358C of the Crimes Act 1900.(3) Any offence under Part 6A (other than an offence arising under section 310B of the Crimes Act 1900).
16A Failing to stop and assist after road accident
An offence under section 52AB of the Crimes Act 1900.
Part 4 Offences under certain other Acts
An offence under section 58 of the Bail Act 1978.
An offence under section 105 (2) or 175 (1) of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998.
18A (Repealed)
An offence under section 76 or 81 of the Electricity Commission Act 1950.
An offence under section 21 of the Financial Institutions Commission Act 1992.
20A Jury Act 1977
An offence under section 68A of the Jury Act 1977.
An offence under section 48H of the Justices Act 1902.
An offence under section 15 of the Law Enforcement and National Security (Assumed Identities) Act 1998.
An offence under section 13 (2), 20, 25, 25A, 29 or 30 of the Oaths Act 1900.
An offence under section 120 of the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1982.
A second or subsequent offence under section 12, 13 or 14 of the Police Powers (Drug Premises) Act 2001.
An offence under section 28B of the Sydney Opera House Trust Act 1961, or an offence under section 28C of that Act where the value of the damage exceeds $5,000.
A second or subsequent offence under section 9, 11, 15, 19 (1), 31, 32, 33, 35 or 36 of the Unlawful Gambling Act 1998.
An offence under section 32 of the Witness Protection Act 1995.
An offence under section 643 (Improperly destroying property etc) or 675 (Destruction of evidence) of the Legal Profession Act 2004.
Part 5 Ancillary offences
26 Attempts
Attempting to commit any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table.
27 Accessories
Being an accessory before or after the fact to any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table (if the offence is a serious indictable offence).
28 Abettors
Aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the commission of any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table (if the offence is a minor indictable offence).
28A Conspiracies
Conspiring to commit any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table.
28B Incitement
Inciting the commission of any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table.
Part 6 Offences under Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985
29 Offences involving more than small quantity but not more than indictable quantity
An offence to which section 31 (1) of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 applies where the number or amount of the prohibited plant or prohibited drug concerned is more than the applicable small quantity but not more than the applicable indictable quantity.
30 Offences involving more than indictable quantity but less than commercial quantity (cannabis plant and cannabis leaf)
An offence referred to in section 32 (1) (a)–(f) of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 where the offence relates to cannabis plant or cannabis leaf and the quantity of cannabis plant or cannabis leaf concerned is more than the applicable indictable quantity but less than the applicable commercial quantity.
30A Offence involving possession of precursors for manufacture or production of prohibited drugs
An offence referred to in section 24A of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985.
Part 7 Offences relating to mining
(1) An offence of mining in contravention of a provision of Division 1 of Part 2 of the Mining Act 1992, where the value of the minerals to which the alleged offence relates is $5,000 or more.(2) An offence under Division 2 of Part 2 of the Mining Act 1992, where the value of the minerals to which the alleged offence relates is $5,000 or more.
Table 2 Indictable offences that are to be dealt with summarily unless prosecutor elects otherwise
sch 1, tbl 2, hdg (previously pt 9A, Table 2, heading): Transferred 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [63]. Am 2003 No 40, Sch 1.10 [14].
sch 1, tbl 2 (previously pt 9A, Table 2): Transferred 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [63]. Am 1999 No 94, Sch 4.98 [7] [8]; 2000 No 90, Sch 5 [2]; 2002 No 45, Sch 2 [3]; 2002 No 47, Sch 3.1 [3]; 2002 No 135, Sch 2 [3]; 2003 No 36, Sch 3.1 [2]; 2003 No 85, Sch 4 [7]; 2003 No 92, Sch 3.1 [4] [5]; 2004 No 48, Sch 2; 2004 No 49, Sch 3 [3]; 2005 No 94, Sch 2.1 [2]; 2005 No 119, Sch 4 [2].
Part 1 Offences against the person under Crimes Act 1900
1 Offences against the person
An offence under section 35A (2), 56, 58, 59, 59A, 60 (1), 60A (1), 60B, 60C, 60E (1) and (4), 61, 61L, 61N or 61O (1) or (1A) of the Crimes Act 1900.
2 Stalking and intimidation
An offence under section 562AB of the Crimes Act 1900.
Part 2 Offences relating to property under Crimes Act 1900 or common law
3 Larceny and certain other property offences
Any of the following offences where the value of the property or the damage, or the amount of money or reward, in respect of which the offence is charged does not exceed $5,000:(a) larceny,(b) an offence of stealing any chattel, money or valuable security from another person (eg section 94 of the Crimes Act 1900),(c) an offence under section 3B, 125, 126, 131, 132, 133, 139, 140, 148, 150, 151, 152, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 178A, 178B, 178BA, 178BB, 178C, 179, 184, 185, 185A, 186, 188, 189, 189A, 190, 192, 195, 249B, 249D or 249E of the Crimes Act 1900,(d) an offence under section 249F of the Crimes Act 1900 of aiding, abetting, counselling, procuring, soliciting or inciting an offence under section 249B, 249D or 249E of that Act.
3A Possession of implement of housebreaking
An offence under section 114 (1) (b) of the Crimes Act 1900.
4 Taking conveyance without consent of owner
An offence under section 154A of the Crimes Act 1900.
4B False instruments
An offence under section 300, 301 or 302 of the Crimes Act 1900 where the value of the property, or amount of remuneration, greater remuneration or financial advantage, in respect of which the offence is charged does not exceed $5,000.
Part 2A Other offences under Crimes Act 1900
4C Animal cruelty
An offence under section 530 or 531 of the Crimes Act 1900.
Part 3 Offences under Sydney Opera House Trust Act 1961
5 Offence of damaging Opera House
An offence under section 28C of the Sydney Opera House Trust Act 1961 where the value of the damage does not exceed $5,000.
Part 4 Offences relating to firearms and dangerous weapons
An offence under section 93FA (1), 93G, 93H or 93I of the Crimes Act 1900.
An offence under section 7, 7A, 36, 43, 44A, 50, 50AA, 50A (1), 51 (1) or (2), 51A, 51BA, 51D (1), 51E, 58 (2), 62, 63, 64, 66, 70, 71A, 72 (1) or 74 of the Firearms Act 1996.
An offence under section 7, 20, 23, 31 or 34 of the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998.
Part 5 Offences relating to fires
An offence under section 100 (1) of the Rural Fires Act 1997.
Part 6 Miscellaneous offences
10 Publishing of child pornography
An offence under section 578C (2A) of the Crimes Act 1900.
10A Frauds concerning liens on crops and wool or stock mortgages
An offence under section 10 or 20 of the Liens on Crops and Wool and Stock Mortgages Act 1898.
Part 7 Ancillary offences
11 Attempts
Attempting to commit any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table.
12 Accessories
Being an accessory before or after the fact to any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table (if the offence is a serious indictable offence).
13 Abettors
Aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the commission of any offence mentioned in a preceding Part (other than Part 3) of this Table (if the offence is a minor indictable offence).
14 Conspiracies
Conspiring to commit any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table.
15 Incitement
Inciting the commission of any offence mentioned in a preceding Part of this Table.
Part 8 Offences relating to drugs
An offence to which section 30 (1) of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 applies where the number or amount of the prohibited plant or prohibited drug concerned is not more than the applicable small quantity.
Part 9 Offences relating to mining
(1) An offence of mining in contravention of a provision of Division 1 of Part 2 of the Mining Act 1992, where the value of the minerals to which the alleged offence relates is less than $5,000.(2) An offence under Division 2 of Part 2 of the Mining Act 1992, where the value of the minerals to which the alleged offence relates is less than $5,000.(3) An offence, under section 374A of the Mining Act 1992, of contravening a condition of a lease, licence or mineral claim under that Act that is identified in the lease, licence or claim as a condition related to environmental management.
(1) An offence of mining petroleum in contravention of section 7 of the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991, where the value of the petroleum to which the alleged offence relates is less than $5,000.(2) An offence, under section 136A of the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991, of contravening a condition of a petroleum title that is identified in the title as a condition related to environmental management.
Schedule 2 Savings, transitional and other provisions
(Section 315)
Part 1 Preliminary
1 Regulations
(1) The regulations may include provisions of a savings or transitional nature consequent on the enactment of the following Acts or provisions of Acts:Schedule 1.4 to the Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1997Schedule 5 to the Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1998Criminal Legislation Amendment Act 2001, to the extent that it amends this ActRoad Transport Legislation Amendment (Public Transport Lanes) Act 2004, but only in relation to the amendments made to this ActCourts Legislation Amendment Act 2006, to the extent that it amends this Act(2) A provision referred to in subclause (1) may, if the regulations so provide, take effect from the date of assent to the Act concerned or from a later date.(3) To the extent to which a provision referred to in subclause (1) takes effect from a date that is earlier than the date of its publication in the Gazette, the provision does not operate so as:(a) to affect, in a manner prejudicial to any person (other than the State or an authority of the State), the rights of that person existing before the date of its publication, or(b) to impose liabilities on any person (other than the State or an authority of the State), in respect of anything done or omitted to be done before the date of its publication.
Part 2 Provisions consequent on Schedule 1.4 to Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1997
2 Application of amendments to Part 10
The amendments to this Act made by Schedule 1.4 [4]–[13] to the Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1997 do not apply in respect of a summary offence if the person charged with the indictable offence to which the summary offence is related is committed for trial for the indictable offence before the commencement of the amendments.
Part 3 Provisions consequent on Schedule 5 to Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1998
3 Application of amendments to Table 2 to Part 9A
Table 2 to Part 9A, as amended by Schedule 5 [1] and [2] to the Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1998, applies to proceedings for an offence with which a person is charged after (but not before) the commencement of those amendments, irrespective of when the offence was alleged to have been committed.
4 Application of amendments to Part 10
The amendments to this Act made by Schedule 5 [3]–[9] to the Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 1998 do not apply in respect of a back up offence or a related offence if the person charged with the indictable offence to which the back up offence or the related offence is related is committed for trial for the indictable offence before the commencement of the amendments.
Part 4 Provisions consequent on enactment of Crimes Legislation Amendment (Sentencing) Act 1999
Division 1 Preliminary
5 Definitions
In this Part:1999 amending Act means the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Sentencing) Act 1999.amended legislation means any Act or instrument amended by Schedule 2, 3, 4 or 5 to the 1999 amending Act, as so amended.appointed day means:(a) in relation to a provision of the old legislation that has been repealed or amended by the 1999 amending Act, the day on which the repeal or amendment commences, or(b) in relation to a new provision inserted into the amended legislation by the 1999 amending Act, the day on which the new provision commences.old legislation means:(a) any Act or instrument repealed by Schedule 1 to the 1999 amending Act, as in force immediately before its repeal, and(b) any Act or instrument amended by Schedule 2, 3, 4 or 5 to the 1999 amending Act, as in force immediately before its amendment.
Division 2 Crimes Act 1900
6 Definitions
In this Division:1900 Act means the Crimes Act 1900, as in force immediately before the appointed day.
7 Certificates under section 358
A certificate prepared in accordance with section 358 of the 1900 Act is taken to have been prepared in accordance with section 127 of this Act.
8 Notices under section 405A and 405AB
A notice served on a person for the purposes of section 405A or 405AB of the 1900 Act is taken to have been served on the person for the purposes of section 48 or 49 of this Act, as the case requires.
9 Depositions under section 406
A deposition made in accordance with section 406 of the 1900 Act is taken to have been made in accordance with section 111 of this Act.
10 Certificate evidence under section 414A
Any certificate prepared for the purposes of a provision of section 414A of the 1900 Act is taken to have been prepared for the purposes of section 109 or 110 of this Act, as the case requires.
11 Operation of section 442A
Section 442A of the 1900 Act continues to have effect in relation to offences under section 61B, 61C and 61D of that Act, as in force before their repeal on 17 March 1991 by the Crimes (Amendment) Act 1989.
12 Orders under section 578
Any order that, immediately before the appointed day, was in force under section 578 of the 1900 Act is taken to be an order in force under section 119 of this Act, and may be amended and revoked accordingly.
Division 4 General
15 Application of section 95
(1) Section 95 does not apply to the trial of a person charged with an offence before 10 June 1994 (the date on which the right to make unsworn dock statements was originally abolished).(2) The re-enactment by section 95 of section 404A of the Crimes Act 1900 does not limit the operation of section 30 of the Interpretation Act 1987 in relation to the repeal of section 404A by the 1999 amending Act.
16 Application of section 105
Nothing in section 105 authorises the admission of evidence of a kind that was inadmissible immediately before 14 July 1981 (the date on which section 409B of the Crimes Act 1900 commenced).
17 Continued operation of Forfeited Recognizances and Bail Act 1954
The Forfeited Recognizances and Bail Act 1954 continues to apply to a recognizance entered into before the commencement of this clause as if that Act had not been repealed.
18 Delegations
Any delegation that was in force immediately before the commencement of the 1999 amending Act under a provision of the old legislation for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended legislation is taken to be a delegation in force under the corresponding provision of the amended legislation.
19 Construction of certain references
Subject to the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, the Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999 and the regulations under this Act, in any Act or instrument:(a) a reference to a provision of the old legislation for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended legislation extends to the corresponding provision of the amended legislation, and(b) a reference to any act, matter or thing referred to in a provision of the old legislation for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended legislation extends to the corresponding act, matter or thing referred to in the corresponding provision of the amended legislation.
20 General saving
Subject to the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, the Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999 and the regulations under this Act:(a) anything begun before the appointed day under a provision of the old legislation for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended legislation may be continued and completed under the old legislation as if the 1999 amending Act had not been enacted, and(b) subject to paragraph (a), anything done under a provision of the old legislation for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended legislation (including anything arising under paragraph (a)) is taken to have been done under the corresponding provision of the amended legislation.
Part 5 Provisions consequent on enactment of Criminal Procedure Amendment (Pre-trial Disclosure) Act 2001
21 Application of Division 2A of Part 3 (Pre-trial disclosure—case management)
Division 2A of Part 3 extends to proceedings for an offence that were instituted before the commencement of that Division, but does not apply to any such proceedings if the accused person was committed for trial before that commencement.
22 Application of amendments to section 48 (Notice of alibi)
The amendment made to section 48 by the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Pre-trial Disclosure) Act 2001 applies to proceedings in which the accused person is committed for trial after the commencement of the amendment.
23 Application of substituted section 54 (Time within which indictment to be presented)
Section 54, as substituted by the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Pre-trial Disclosure) Act 2001, does not apply to proceedings in which the accused person was committed for trial before the substitution of that section.
24 Application of section 63A (Amendment of indictment)
Section 63A applies to indictments presented after the commencement of that section.
Part 6 Provisions consequent on Criminal Procedure Amendment (Sexual Assault Communications Privilege) Act 2002
25 Application of Part 7
(1) The amended Part does not apply in relation to criminal proceedings the hearing of which began before it was amended. The Part, as in force before it was amended, continues to apply in relation to such proceedings.(2) The amended Part applies in relation to a requirement (whether by subpoena or other procedure) to produce a document on or after its amendment even if the requirement was issued before it was amended.(3) The amended Part applies in respect of a protected confidence whether made before or after it was amended.(4) In this clause:amended Part means Part 7 as amended by the amending Act.amending Act means the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Sexual Assault Communications Privilege) Act 2002.protected confidence has the meaning it has in Part 7.
Part 7 Provisions consequent on enactment of Criminal Procedure Amendment (Justices and Local Courts) Act 2001 and Justices Legislation Repeal and Amendment Act 2001
26 Definitions
In this Part:amended Criminal Procedure Act means this Act, as amended by the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Justices and Local Courts) Act 2001.amended Local Courts Act means the Local Courts Act 1982, as amended by the Justices Legislation Repeal and Amendment Act 2001.old Act means this Act, as in force before its amendment by the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Justices and Local Courts) Act 2001.renumbered provision means a provision of this Act that is renumbered by the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Justices and Local Courts) Act 2001.repealed provision means a provision of an Act that is repealed by one of the 2001 amending Acts.2001 amending Acts means the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Justices and Local Courts) Act 2001 and the Justices Legislation Repeal and Amendment Act 2001.
27 Consequences of abolition of office of Clerk of the Peace
(1) The registry functions of the abolished office of the Clerk of the Peace are the functions of the registrars and other officers of the Supreme Court or the District Court.(2) Subclause (1) has effect subject to this Act and any other Act and, in particular, does not affect the functions of the Criminal Listing Director.(3) A reference in any other Act, in any instrument made under any Act or in any other instrument of any other kind to the Clerk of the Peace is to be read as a reference to such person or persons as may be prescribed.
28 General saving relating to proceedings
(1) If any proceedings commenced, or any other thing commenced or done, under a repealed provision still having effect or not completed immediately before the repeal could have been done or commenced under the corresponding provision of the amended Criminal Procedure Act or the amended Local Courts Act:(a) the thing done continues to have effect, or(b) the proceedings or other thing commenced may be completed.(2) A decision, order or a sentence made by a Local Court, or any other person or body, that is completed under subclause (1) may be enforced as if the provisions of the old Act and the Justices Act 1902 and any repealed instruments under those Acts were still in force.(3) Any act, matter or thing done or omitted to be done under a repealed provision or renumbered provision, and having force immediately before the commencement of a provision of an Act that replaces the repealed provision or renumbers the provision, is on that commencement taken to be done under the corresponding provision of the amended Criminal Procedure Act or Local Courts Act (as the case requires).
29 Construction of certain references
(1) Except as provided by this clause, a reference in any other Act or instrument:(a) to a repealed provision for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended Criminal Procedure Act, or to a renumbered provision, extends to the corresponding provision of the amended Criminal Procedure Act, and(b) to a repealed provision for which there is a corresponding provision in the amended Local Courts Act extends to the corresponding provision of the amended Local Courts Act, and(c) to any act, matter or thing referred to in a repealed provision or a renumbered provision extends to the corresponding act, matter or thing referred to in the corresponding provision of the amended Criminal Procedure Act or amended Local Courts Act.(2) The regulations may provide that a reference in any other Act or instrument or a specified instrument to a repealed provision or a renumbered provision is to be read as a reference to another specified instrument (or a specified provision of such an instrument).
30 Functions of justices conferred on Magistrates or Local Courts
In any Act or statutory rule under which a function is conferred on one or more justices (other than an authorised justice), a reference to a justice in connection with the function is taken to be a reference to a Magistrate or Local Court, if the function is, because of the 2001 amending Acts, instead conferred on a Magistrate or Local Court.
31 Previous acts done by justices
An act, matter or thing done or omitted to be done by a justice (other than a Magistrate or an authorised justice within the meaning of the Search Warrants Act 1985) before the commencement of this clause in accordance with a provision of an Act or a statutory rule continues to have effect after that commencement as if the Act, matter or thing were done by an authorised officer or a Magistrate (as the case requires).
32 Offences committed before commencement of clause
(1) The provisions of the amended Criminal Procedure Act, and any instruments made under that Act, apply to or in relation to proceedings for an offence committed before the commencement of this clause, if proceedings for the offence were not commenced before the commencement of this clause.(2) The provisions of the old Act and the Justices Act 1902, and any instruments made under those Acts, continue to apply to or in relation to proceedings for an offence committed before the commencement of this clause, if proceedings for the offence were commenced before the commencement of this clause.(3) For the purposes of this clause, proceedings are taken to have been commenced in respect of an offence if an information was laid or a complaint made, or an attendance notice issued, in relation to the offence, before the commencement of this clause.(4) This clause applies to all proceedings for offences (including committal proceedings).(5) This clause does not apply to or in respect of Parts 4A, 5, 5A and 5B of the Justices Act 1902.
33 Provisions about appearances and service of documents
Without limiting the generality of any other provision of this Part, the provisions of the old Act and any instrument made under that Act continue to apply to or in relation to:(a) requiring the appearance of accused persons, witnesses and other persons at proceedings relating to offences to which the old Act and the Justices Act 1902 continue to apply, and(b) the issue and enforcement of and requirements for warrants of apprehension and commitment relating to offences to which the old Act and the Justices Act 1902 continue to apply, and(c) the service of process and other documents relating to offences to which the old Act and the Justices Act 1902 continue to apply.
34 Previous warrants
A warrant issued under the Justices Act 1902 before the commencement of this clause and in force before that commencement continues to have effect, and may be executed and enforced, as if that Act were still in force.
35 Costs
Without limiting the generality of any other provision of this Part, the provisions of the Justices Act 1902 and any instrument made under that Act continue to apply to or in relation to:(a) orders for, and the payment of, costs by accused persons or other persons in any proceedings commenced under that Act before the commencement of this clause, and(b) the enforcement of any such order.
36 Protection and immunities of justices
A provision of an Act or a statutory instrument that confers on a person or body the same protection and immunities as a justice of the peace (however expressed) is taken to confer on the person or body:(a) the same protection and immunities as are conferred on a Magistrate, if the protection and immunities are conferred in respect of the exercise of judicial functions or functions required to be exercised judicially, or(b) the same protection and immunities as are conferred on a registrar of a Local Court, if the protection and immunities are conferred in respect of the exercise of any other function.
37 Depositions
A provision of an Act or a statutory rule relating to the making or use (including the admissibility) of a deposition of a witness made before the commencement of this clause, and in force immediately before that commencement, continues to apply to a deposition made in accordance with any applicable law before the commencement of this clause.
38 Translation of old references to new references
References in an Act (other than this Act), in any instrument made under an Act or in any other instrument, to an expression listed in Column 1 of the Table to this clause are taken to be references to the expression listed next to that expression in Column 2 of the Table.Table
Local Courts Act 1982, if the reference relates to any other proceedings
39 Authorised justices under Search Warrants Act 1985
(1) Nothing in the 2001 amending Acts affects the appointment of any existing authorised justice and any such person is taken to have been appointed under the Search Warrants Act 1985, as amended by the Justices Legislation Repeal and Amendment Act 2001.(2) In this clause:means a person who was, immediately before the commencement of the amendments made to section 3 of the Search Warrants Act 1985 by the Justices Legislation Repeal and Amendment Act 2001, an authorised justice within the meaning of the Search Warrants Act 1985.
Part 8 Provisions consequent on enactment of Criminal Procedure Further Amendment (Evidence) Act 2005
40 Definition
In this Part:amending Act means the Criminal Procedure Further Amendment (Evidence) Act 2005.
41 Extension of definition of “prescribed sexual offence”
(1) The amendments made by the amending Act to the definitions of prescribed sexual offence in section 3 (1), child sexual assault offence in section 91 and sexual assault offence in section 295 extend to proceedings in respect of an offence, and to civil proceedings (insofar as the amendments are relevant to civil proceedings), that were instituted or partly heard before the commencement of the amendments.Note—Division 1B of Part 3.10 of Chapter 3 of the Evidence Act 1995 applies the definition of sexual assault offence in section 295 to certain civil proceedings.(2) Subclause (1) does not affect the admissibility of any evidence admitted in proceedings before the commencement of those amendments or otherwise affect the validity of anything done, or omitted to be done, before that commencement.(3) In particular, the application, as a result of an amendment referred to in subclause (1), of section 91 (8) or 93 to proceedings to which it did not apply before the commencement of Schedule 1 [1] to the amending Act does not affect the validity of any direction given under section 91 before that commencement. However if, as a result of an amendment referred to in subclause (1), section 91 (8) or 93 applies in respect of a person directed to attend committal proceedings, and the person has not yet attended, the Magistrate must, on application by the prosecutor, revoke the direction.(4) The amendments made to Division 3 of Part 5 of Chapter 6 by the amending Act extend to proceedings for a new trial ordered before the commencement of the amendments, including new trial proceedings that have been instituted or partly heard.
42 Improper questions
(1) Section 275A, as inserted by the amending Act, extends to proceedings instituted or partly heard before the commencement of that section.(2) However, that section does not affect the admissibility of any evidence admitted in any proceedings before that commencement or otherwise affect the validity of anything done, or omitted to be done, before that commencement.
43 Sensitive evidence
Part 2A of Chapter 6, as inserted by the amending Act, extends to a criminal investigation instituted, or criminal proceedings instituted or partly heard, before the commencement of that Part.
44 Evidence of complainant to be given in camera
(1) New section 291, and sections 291A, 291B and 291C as inserted by the amending Act, extend to proceedings instituted or partly heard before the commencement of new section 291, subject to this clause.(2) The replacement of former section 291 by the amending Act does not affect the validity of any direction made under that section before the replacement of that section that requires the proceedings to be held partly or entirely in camera.(3) However, unless the court has already directed under former section 291 that the evidence of the complainant be given in camera, new section 291 applies in respect of any evidence given by the complainant after the commencement of new section 291. That is, such evidence must be given in camera unless the court otherwise directs under new section 291.(4) In this clause:former section 291 means section 291, as in force before its replacement by the amending Act.new section 291 means section 291, as inserted by the amending Act.
45 Other amendments relating to giving of evidence by complainant
The amendments made by the amending Act to section 294B and section 294C, as inserted by the amending Act, extend to proceedings instituted or partly heard before the commencement of those amendments.
Part 9 Provisions consequent on enactment of Criminal Procedure Amendment (Prosecutions) Act 2005
46 Definitions
In this Part:applicable signing provision means section 126 or any corresponding provisions of this Act previously in force that applied to the signing of indictments at the time concerned.introduction day means the day on which the Bill for the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Prosecutions) Act 2005 was first introduced into Parliament.relevant period means the period commencing on 13 July 1987 and ending immediately before the introduction day.
47 Validation of certain indictments
(1) This clause applies to an indictment signed by a legal practitioner during the relevant period that purports to be signed for and on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions in circumstances where:(a) the legal practitioner was instructed to prosecute the criminal proceedings to which the indictment related on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and(b) the legal practitioner was not authorised by or under the applicable signing provision to sign the indictment for and on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions.(2) Any indictment to which this clause applies that, but for this subclause, would have been invalid only because it had not been signed by a person authorised to sign it under the applicable signing provision, is taken at the time it was signed and at all relevant times after it was signed to have been a valid indictment.(3) Without limiting subclause (2), any criminal proceedings (including any conviction or acquittal of the defendant or sentence imposed on the defendant) that would otherwise have been invalid or a nullity only because the proceedings related to an indictment validated by subclause (2) are taken to be, and always to have been, valid.(4) However, nothing in this clause affects the validity of a particular indictment to which this clause applies or criminal proceedings relating to such an indictment if the indictment or proceedings (or both) were held to be invalid or a nullity before the introduction day in a judgment, order or other decision of a court.
Part 10 Provisions consequent on enactment of Criminal Procedure Amendment (Sexual Offence Case Management) Act 2005
48 Application of section 130A
(1) Section 130A, as inserted by the amending Act, applies only to pre-trial orders made after the commencement of that section (irrespective of when the relevant sexual offence proceedings commenced).(2) In this clause, amending Act means the Criminal Procedure Amendment (Sexual Offence Case Management) Act 2005.
Part 11 Provisions consequent on enactment of Courts Legislation Amendment Act 2006
49 Definition
In this Part:amending Act means the Courts Legislation Amendment Act 2006.
50 Amendments
(1) An amendment made to this Act by the amending Act does not extend to proceedings instituted before the commencement of that amendment.(2) Such proceedings may be dealt with as if the amendment had not commenced.
sch 2 (previously Sch 1): Ins 1997 No 85, Sch 1.4 [14]. Am 1998 No 53, Sch 5 [10] [11]. Renumbered 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [66]. Am 1999 No 94, Sch 2 [67] [68]; 2001 No 7, Sch 1 [8] [9]; 2001 No 117, Sch 7 [11]; 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [142]–[144]; 2002 No 13, Sch 1 [5]; 2002 No 46, Sch 1 [3]; 2002 No 100, Sch 1 [4]; 2003 No 42, Sch 1 [2]; 2004 No 22, Sch 3 [6]; 2005 No 15, Sch 1 [2]; 2005 No 25, Sch 1 [26] [27]; 2005 No 75, Sch 1 [2] [3]; 2005 No 102, Sch 1 [2] [3]; 2006 No 23, Sch 2 [10] [11].
Schedule 3 Provisions relating to offences
(Section 316)
sch 3, hdg: Ins 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [145].
Part 1 Contempt
1 Institution of contempt proceedings
(1) Proceedings for contempt of court may be instituted in the Supreme Court in the name of the “State of New South Wales” by:(a) the Attorney General, or(b) the Solicitor General or Crown Advocate acting under a delegation from the Attorney General.(2) Nothing in subclause (1) prevents contempt of court being dealt with in any other manner, and in particular nothing in that subclause prevents proceedings for contempt of court from being instituted in any other manner.
Part 2 Treason and treason-related offences
2 Definitions
In this Part:expressed by spoken word, in relation to treasonable sentiments, means expressed, uttered or declared by open and advised speaking, and in no other manner.means an offence arising under section 12 of the Crimes Act 1900.treason means any of the offences whose existence is saved by operation of section 11 of the Crimes Act 1900.treasonable sentiments means the compassings, imaginations, inventions, devices or intentions giving rise to a treason-related offence.
3 Time within which prosecution to be commenced and warrant issued for treason-related offence
(1) No person is to be prosecuted for treasonable sentiments expressed by spoken word unless:(a) information of those sentiments, and of the words by which they were so expressed, was given on oath to a Magistrate or an authorised officer within 6 days after the words were spoken, and(b) a warrant for the arrest of the person was issued within 10 days after the information was given.(2) No person may be convicted in respect of treasonable sentiments expressed by spoken word unless:(a) the person confesses to those sentiments in open court, or(b) the words by which those sentiments were so expressed are proved by at least 2 witnesses.
4 More than one act may be charged in indictment for treason-related offence
In any indictment for a treason-related offence, any number of matters, acts or deeds by which treasonable sentiments have been expressed, uttered, or declared may be charged against the accused person.
5 Indictment for treason-related offence valid though facts may amount to treason
(1) An indictment for a treason-related offence is not bad, insufficient, void, erroneous or defective merely because the facts or matters alleged in the indictment amount in law to treason.(2) A person is not entitled to be acquitted of a treason-related offence merely because the facts or matters proved on the person’s trial amount in law to treason, but no person tried for a treason-related offence may subsequently be prosecuted on the same facts for treason.
6 Procedure for treason to be as for murder
In all cases of treason, the person charged is to be arraigned and tried in the same manner, and according to the same course and order of trial, as if the person stood charged with murder.
Part 3 Stealing offences
7 Stealing and receiving in one indictment
(1) In an indictment containing a charge of stealing property, a further charge may be added against the same person for unlawfully receiving the property, or any part of the property, knowing it to have been stolen.(2) The prosecutor is not to be put to election as to those charges.
8 Separate receivers may be charged in one indictment
If property has been stolen, taken, embezzled, obtained, fraudulently applied or disposed of in such a manner as to amount to a serious indictable offence:(a) any number of receivers at different times of the property, andmay be charged with substantive serious indictable offences in the same indictment, and be tried together, even if the principal offender is not included in the indictment, not in custody or not amenable to justice.(b) any number of receivers of different parts of the property,
9 Allegations in indictment as to money or securities stolen
(1) In an indictment:(a) for stealing, taking, receiving, or embezzling any money or valuable security, or(b) for misappropriating, or fraudulently applying or disposing of, any money or valuable security, orit is sufficient to describe the property as a “certain amount of money” or a “certain valuable security”, without specifying any particular kind of money or security.(c) for obtaining any money or valuable security by any threat or false pretence, or partly by a false pretence and partly by a wilfully false promise,(2) Such a description may be sustained by proof of the stealing, taking, receiving, embezzling, appropriating, disposal or obtaining of any money or valuable security:(a) even if some part of its value was agreed to be, or was in fact, returned, and(b) even if, as regards money, the particular kind of money is not proved or provable.
10 Indictment for stealing by tenants
An indictment against a person for stealing property let to be used by the person as a tenant or lodger in relation to premises is sufficient:(a) in the case of a chattel, if it is in the common form for larceny, andand in either case the property may be described as being owned by the owner of the premises or by the person letting the premises.(b) in the case of a fixture, if it is in the same form as if the person were not a tenant or lodger,
11 Indictment for stealing deeds
(1) In an indictment for stealing, embezzling, destroying, cancelling, obliterating or concealing any document of title to land, or any part of land, it is sufficient:(a) to allege that the document contains evidence of the title to the land, and(b) to mention the person, or one of the persons, having an interest in the land or any part of the land.(2) In this section:document of title to land includes any deed, certificate of title, map, paper or parchment (whether written or printed, or partly written and partly printed) that is or contains evidence of the title, or part of the title, to any real estate or any interest in or out of real estate.
12 Indictment for larceny by public servant, property to be described as property of the State
In an indictment for larceny or embezzlement as a public servant, the property may be described as the property of the State, from which it is taken to have been stolen.
Part 4 Other offences
13 General averment of intent to defraud or injure
(1) It is sufficient to allege that the accused person did an act with intent to defraud or injure without alleging an intent to defraud or injure any particular person.(2) In an indictment for doing an act fraudulently, or for a fraudulent purpose, it is not necessary to state the fraudulent intent or purpose.
14 Indecent assault
In an indictment for an indecent assault, it is sufficient to state that the accused person (at a specified time and place) committed an indecent assault on the person alleged to have been assaulted, without stating the mode of assault.
15 Partners and partnership property
(1) In an indictment:(a) it is sufficient to describe partners, joint tenants, parceners or tenants in common by naming one of them and referring to the others as “another” or “others”, as the case requires, and(b) it is sufficient to state the ownership of property belonging to partners, joint tenants, parceners or tenants in common by naming one of them and alleging the property to belong to the person so named and “another” or “others”, as the case requires.(2) This section extends to all joint stock companies, executors, administrators and trustees.
16 Where not necessary to allege particular ownership
In any indictment in respect of any of the following matters:(a) stealing, destroying or injuring any testamentary instrument, any document issued by a court or anything fixed or growing in any place set aside for public use,(b) any offence committed in or in relation to a place of divine worship,(c) any offence committed in relation to property in any public library or other public building,it is not necessary to allege that the thing in respect of which the offence was committed is the property of any person.(d) anything mentioned in section 202 or 210 of the Crimes Act 1900,
17 On trial for perjury: presumption of authority to administer oath
On a trial for perjury, the person before whom the perjury is alleged to have been committed is presumed to have had authority to administer the oath, or take the declaration, or affirmation, unless the contrary is shown.
18 Description in indictment for engraving
In an indictment:(a) for engraving or making the whole or any part of any instrument or thing, or(b) for using or having possession of any plate or material on which the whole or any part of any instrument or thing is engraved or made, orit is sufficient to describe any such instrument or thing by any name or designation by which it is usually known, without setting out a copy of it or any part of it.(c) for having possession of paper on which the whole or any part of any instrument or thing is made or printed,
19 Indictment for sale of counterfeit coin
In an indictment with respect to the unlawful buying, selling, paying, putting off or receiving of counterfeit coin, it is not necessary to allege at what rate, or for what price, the coin was bought or sold or offered to be bought, sold, paid, put off or received.
20 Indictment for perjury
(1) In an indictment for perjury, it is sufficient:(a) to allege that, on a certain day, at a certain place and before a named person, the accused person falsely swore, declared or affirmed the matter charged as false:(i) stating only the substance of the matter, and(ii) averring that the matter was falsely sworn, declared or affirmed on an occasion when the truth of the matter was material, and(b) to state generally that the matter charged as false was false in fact without negativing each or any aspect of the matter.(2) Consequently, it is not necessary:(a) to specify the occasion on which the matter charged as false was falsely sworn, declared or affirmed, or(b) to show how the matter charged as false was material, or(c) to specify the proceedings in or in relation to which the matter charged as false was falsely sworn, declared or affirmed, or(d) to specify the judicial or official character of the person administering the oath, or taking the declaration or affirmation, charged as false.
21 Indictment for conspiracy
(1) This clause applies to an indictment for conspiracy.(2) It is not necessary to state any overt act of conspiracy.(3) Each accused person, whether 2 or more are included in the same indictment or not:(a) may be charged separately, in any count:(i) as having conspired with other persons, of whom it is sufficient to name one only, or(ii) as having conspired with one other named person only, and(b) may be convicted on any such count on proof of having unlawfully conspired, for the purpose alleged in the indictment, with any one of the named persons.(4) No more than 3 counts against the same accused person may be inserted in one indictment.(5) In any case before a plea is entered, the court may order such particulars to be given as the court considers appropriate.(6) If substantially different conspiracies are charged in the same indictment, the prosecutor may be put to election as to the one on which to proceed.
22 Procedures regarding obscene or blasphemous libel
(1) In any indictment against the publisher of an obscene or blasphemous libel, it is not necessary to set out the obscene or blasphemous passages.(2) It is sufficient to tender the book, newspaper or other document containing the alleged libel with the indictment, together with particulars showing precisely, by reference to pages, columns and lines, in what part of the book, newspaper or other document the alleged libel is to be found.(3) The particulars referred to in subclause (2) are taken to form part of the record of the proceedings.(4) All proceedings may be taken as though the passages complained of had been set out in the indictment.
sch 3: Cl 1 (previously sec 53) renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [146]; cll 2–6 (previously secs 128–132) renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [149]; cll 7–12 (previously secs 74–79) renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [153]; cll 13–16 (previously secs 70–73) renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [156]; cl 17 (previously sec 122) renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [157]; cll 18–22 (previously secs 80–84) renumbered 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [158]. Am 2001 No 119, Sch 1 [145] [147] [148] [150]–[152] [154] [155] [159]–[161].