BRLG

Supportive Sundays:
Whether you're navigating a separation, parenting dispute, Intervention Order, or criminal law matter, legal proceedings can be emotionally and mentally demanding. During times of uncertainty, it's easy to become consumed by Court dates, paperwork, and difficult conversations. While your legal matter is important, so is your wellbeing.

Remember to take breaks, lean on trusted family and friends, seek professional support if you need it, and make time for the things that help you feel grounded. Looking after yourself can help you think more clearly, make informed decisions, and better navigate the legal process. At BRLG, we understand that behind every legal matter is a person facing unique challenges. Our role is not only to provide legal guidance but also to support our clients with compassion, understanding, and practical advice every step of the way.

If you require advice or support regarding a family law or criminal law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Fun Fact Friday: Family & Criminal Law
Did You Know: Police can apply for a Family Violence Intervention Order, even if the protected person does not?

Many people assume that only the person seeking protection can apply for a Family Violence Intervention Order. However, in certain circumstances, Victoria Police may make an application on behalf of a person if they believe it is necessary to help protect their safety. This often occurs where police attend a family violence incident and believe there are reasonable grounds to seek immediate protection, even if the affected family member is reluctant or uncertain about making an application themselves. The Court will then consider the circumstances of the matter and determine whether an Intervention Order should be made.

The key takeaway is that Family Violence Intervention Orders are designed to protect people from harm. In some situations, police have the power to take steps to help ensure that protection. If you require advice or support regarding a family law or criminal law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

We would like to share a kind review left by one of our clients.

At BRLG, we are grateful for the trust our clients place in our team and proud to support them through important moments in their lives.

Thank you to our wonderful clients for taking the time to share their experiences. We truly appreciate your feedback.

FAQ Friday: Family Law & Criminal Law
Q: Can I bring a support person to Court?

In many circumstances, yes. Attending Court can feel intimidating, particularly if you are involved in a family law dispute, intervention order matter, or criminal proceeding. Many people are permitted to have a support person accompany them to Court. While a support person generally cannot speak on your behalf or participate in the proceedings, their presence can provide emotional support and help make the experience feel less overwhelming.

The specific arrangements may vary depending on the type of matter, the Court, and the circumstances of the case. The key takeaway is that if you are anxious about attending Court, you may have options available to help you feel more supported throughout the process. If you require advice or support regarding a criminal law or family law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Criminal Defence Tip Wednesday - Keeping a record of important communications.

When family law and criminal law matters overlap, records can become incredibly important. If there are disputes involving parenting arrangements, allegations of family violence, intervention orders, or police involvement, communications such as text messages, emails, call logs, and written notes may later become relevant.

This does not mean you should record conversations unlawfully or engage in conduct that could create further issues. However, keeping copies of relevant communications and maintaining clear records can help provide important context if a dispute arises. A simple criminal defence tip: if you become involved in a legal dispute, avoid deleting messages or documents that may be relevant to your matter, and obtain legal advice before responding to allegations.

The key takeaway is that accurate records can often be just as important as recollections when legal issues arise. If you require advice or support regarding a criminal law or family law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Trivia Tuesday: Family Law & Criminal Law
Q: Is a Family Violence Intervention Order a criminal punishment?
A: No. It is primarily a protective order.

A Family Violence Intervention Order is designed to help protect a person from family violence, threats, harassment, intimidation, or other prohibited behaviour. However, while the order itself is not a criminal conviction, breaching the conditions of the order can become a criminal matter. This may include contacting the protected person, attending certain places, or communicating in a way that the order does not allow.

This is where family law and criminal law can overlap. An Intervention Order may affect communication, parenting arrangements, and safety concerns, while a breach may result in criminal charges. The key takeaway is simple: Intervention Orders are serious Court orders. Understanding the conditions clearly is essential. If you require advice or support regarding an Intervention Order, family law matter, or criminal law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Trivia Tuesday: Family Law & Criminal Law
Q: Can a parent refuse to return a child after an agreed visit?
A: Potentially, but doing so can have serious legal consequences.
Many people assume that if there are concerns about a child, they can simply decide not to return them to the other parent. However, if parenting orders are in place, failing to comply with those orders may have significant consequences. In some situations, concerns about a child's safety may justify urgent action. In others, withholding a child from the other parent without lawful grounds may result in court proceedings or other legal consequences.

Disputes about parenting arrangements can quickly become complex, particularly where there are allegations of family violence, intervention orders, or concerns about a child's welfare. The key takeaway is that if concerns arise regarding a child, it is important to obtain legal advice before taking matters into your own hands.
If you require advice or support regarding a family law or criminal law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Fun Fact Friday: Criminal Law
Did you know that calling someone repeatedly can, in some circumstances, lead to legal consequences? Many people assume that making multiple phone calls or sending repeated messages is simply an attempt to communicate. However, depending on the circumstances, persistent unwanted contact may become relevant in intervention order matters or criminal proceedings.

This is particularly common following relationship breakdowns, where emotions are high and communication can become strained. What one person sees as "trying to sort things out", another person may perceive as unwanted or intimidating contact.

The key takeaway is that it is important to be mindful of how you communicate, particularly where there are existing disputes, intervention orders, or requests for no contact. If you require advice or support regarding a criminal law or family law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Criminal Defence Tip:
If police ask to speak with you about an allegation, obtaining legal advice before participating in an interview can be one of the most important steps you take. Many people believe that explaining their side of the story immediately will resolve the situation. However, criminal investigations can be complex, and statements made during a police interview may later be used as evidence.

This can be particularly relevant where criminal law and family law overlap, such as matters involving family violence allegations, intervention orders, or disputes arising from a separation. Seeking legal advice early can help you understand your rights, your obligations, and the potential consequences of any information you provide.

The key takeaway is simple: if you are contacted by police regarding an allegation, take the opportunity to obtain legal advice before making decisions about how to proceed. If you require advice or support regarding a criminal law or family law matter, BRLG is here to assist.

Sunday Criminal Defence Tip

Did you know that social media posts can become evidence in criminal proceedings? In today's world, it can be easy to post a comment, upload a photo, share a story, or send a message without thinking twice. However, content posted online may later be reviewed by police, investigators, or the Court.

Photos, videos, messages, location check-ins, comments, and even deleted content can sometimes become relevant in criminal matters. If you are involved in a criminal law matter, one of the most important practical tips is to be mindful of what you post online. Avoid discussing the allegations, commenting on witnesses, sharing details of the matter, or posting content that could be misunderstood or taken out of context. If you are facing a criminal law matter, obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your rights and avoid unintentionally creating complications for your case.