Our Practice Areas
Family law handles legal challenges within the family unit, such as divorce, property division, child custody, and support. At Sentry Legal, we assist clients with property settlement, spousal maintenance, termination of marriage, child custody, child support. We also assist with prenuptial agreements, paternity disputes.Â
Family law also includes domestic violence, abuse, neglect, or child endangerment. The main goal in family law cases is to protect the child’s best interests while safeguarding the individual rights of all parties.
Have you been charged with an offence or suspecting that you are being investigated? it is paramount that you seek legal advice from an experienced lawyer.
At Sentry Legal, we provide you with a 30 minute free legal advice to guide you through the processes and how you will respond to the investigating authorities if you are to be invited for an interview.
The criminal law in Australia is largely based on common law and includes both federal and state laws. Criminal offenses are classified into categories such as summary offenses, indictable offenses and strict liability offenses. The penalties for criminal offenses range from fines to imprisonment and in some cases, community service orders.
It is essential to seek legal advice if you are charged with a criminal offense to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair trial.
Traffic Law
At Sentry Legal, we provide high quality and considered legal advice in the fallowing areas:
Speeding;
No authority to drive;
Drink driving or driving while under the influence;
Reckless or dangerous driving;
Failure to stop for Police;
Fail to provide personal details and; and
Failure to comply with requirement by the Police.
Minor offences such as speeding can attract fines, while more serious offences like driving under the influence can lead to imprisonment.
Restraining Orders
Restraining orders are legal orders made by the Magistrates or the Children courts to protect individuals at risk of harm. There are violence restraining orders (VROs) for domestic and family violence and misconduct restraining orders (MROs) for stalking, intimidation or verbal abuse.
The person can apply to the police or local court and conditions will be placed on the offender to avoid further legal action. Breaching a restraining order is a serious offence and can result in legal consequences.
Whether you are considering taking an application against someone or has been made against you, we will assist you on how to resolve this matter either by Undertaking/Agreement or assist you in the Final Order Hearing.Â
Extraordinary Drivers' Licence
An Extraordinary License (EDL) allows people whose license has been suspended or canceled to drive under certain conditions during that period of cancellation of their drivers’ licenses. These conditions usually include driving for work or medical purposes, following specific routes or times, and may undergoing regular drug and alcohol testing.
To apply, we will complete an application form and attend a court hearing on your behalf. A Magistrate will determine if an EDL is necessary and appropriate.
Remember the Court will be consider safety of the public as the paramount consideration. If granted, you will be required to attend the Department of Transport. In some cases, applicants must complete a driver education program first. Failure to comply with an EDL can result in losing one’s license.
- A Case Like Yours -
Divorce Application
An application for divorce can be made as a joint or sole application. To initiate a divorce application with the Family Court, you must be separated for 12 months from the date of separation. Generally, we will guide you through the divorce process and provide legal advice specific to obtaining the necessary divorce application forms. We will assist you with completing the required Forms, providing accurate and detailed information about yourself, your spouse, and your marriage. This may include personal details, dates of marriage and details about children. Further, your application for divorce is to be accompanied by supporting documents. These may include a marriage certificate and birth certificates for the children (if any). Service for the Divorce Papers: After filing, you will typically need to serve a copy of the divorce papers to the other party. This involves delivering the documents in a legally acceptable manner-proper service. The documents must be personally service by a third party or hiring a professional process server. You can not serve your documents on your ex-wife as this isn’t regarded as a proper service. Proof of Service: After serving the divorce papers, you will need to provide the Court with a proof of service. This is typically a document or affidavit signed by the person who served the papers, affirming the date, time, and method of service. Responding to the Divorce application: If the other party does not contest the divorce application, occasionally, there is no need to respond. However, if the other party does contest the divorce application, he or she may file a response or counter-petition outlining their objections or proposed alternative terms. It's important to note that the divorce process can be complex, and specific requirements and procedures may differ based on your circumstances. We will take care of this process to enable you comply with all the legal steps leading to the dissolution of your marriage.
Consent Orders
Consent orders are legal agreements reached between two or more parties in a dispute or legal case. These orders are entered with the consent and agreement of all parties involved, and they usually detail the terms and conditions that all parties have agreed to follow. Consent orders are commonly used in family law matters where the parties reach an agreement regarding specific issues. These issues may include child custody arrangements, care arrangements, property division, spousal maintenance or child support, and any other relevant matters. Once consent orders are drafted and signed by all parties, they are typically submitted to the court for approval. If the court finds the terms fair, reasonable, and in the best interests of the parties involved, it will likely enter the consent orders as a legally binding agreement. It's important to note that consent orders vary depending on specific circumstances of your matter. Consulting with a us would be the best way to obtain accurate and specific advice regarding consent orders.
Binding Financial Agreements
A Binding Financial Agreement (BFA), also known as a prenuptial agreement or a financial agreement, is a legal contract made between parties in a relationship or marriage. It sets out how their property, finances, and other assets will be divided in the event of separation or divorce. A BFA can be entered into before, during, or after a marriage or de facto relationship. It is designed to provide certainty and protect the parties' assets in case the relationship breaks down. It can cover matters such as property division, spousal maintenance, and other financial matters. To be legally binding, a BFA must meet certain criteria and be executed correctly. These include: 1. Both parties must have obtained independent legal advice before signing the agreement. 2. The agreement must be in writing. 3. The agreement should include a statement from each party's legal practitioners confirming they have provided advice about the agreement and its implications. 4. The agreement must be signed by both parties voluntarily and without any duress or undue influence. 5. Each party should keep a copy of the agreement. At Sentry Legal, we will guide you through the processes, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and help draft an agreement that suits your specific circumstances.
Child Protection
The best interest of the child is a fundamental principle that guides decision-making and legal determinations in matters concerning children, particularly in family law and child welfare cases. It places the well-being, safety, and development of the child as the paramount consideration in any decision or action taken by parents, courts, and other relevant authorities.
The concept of the best interest of the child acknowledges that children are vulnerable and dependent on adults for their care, protection, and overall development. It recognizes that children have unique needs and rights that should be safeguarded and prioritized in all aspects of their lives. This principle is universally accepted and enshrined in various international conventions, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The best interest of the child standard is subjective and context-dependent, taking into account several factors that influence a child’s well-being. These factors may include but are not limited to:
1. Health and Safety: Ensuring the child’s physical and mental health, safety, and protection from harm or abuse.
2. Emotional Well-being: Promoting the child’s emotional stability, nurturing relationships, and providing a supportive and loving environment.
3. Education: Facilitating access to quality education and educational opportunities that support the child’s intellectual and social development.
4. Stability and Continuity: Maintaining a stable and consistent living environment, minimizing disruptions and changes that may negatively impact the child’s well-being.
5. Parental Involvement: Encouraging meaningful and positive involvement of both parents, where appropriate, in the child’s life and decision-making.
6. Cultural and Social Considerations: Recognizing and respecting the child’s cultural, religious, and social background, and ensuring their right to maintain their identity.
7. Sibling Relationships: Preserving and promoting relationships with siblings, recognizing the importance of familial connections for a child’s well-being.
8. The Child’s Views: Considering the child’s opinions, taking into account their age and maturity, and giving due weight to their preferences in accordance with their evolving capacities.
It is essential to note that the best interest of the child principle does not imply that a child’s wishes always dictate the outcome of a decision. Rather, it requires a careful and balanced assessment of all relevant factors to determine what is in the child’s overall best interest, even if it may conflict with the child’s immediate desires. The best interest of the child principle is applied in various legal contexts, such as custody and visitation disputes, child protection proceedings, adoption, and immigration cases involving children. It provides a framework for decision-making that prioritizes the child’s well-being and ensures that their rights and interests are safeguarded. Ultimately, the best interest of the child principle serves as a guiding principle to promote children’s rights, protect their welfare, and support their healthy development within the context of their unique circumstances. At Sentry Legal, we will fight for the welfare of your child(ren) and achieve the best outcome for you.
Criminal Law
Domestic Violence
Drink and Drive
Drugs Offences
Drug offences refer to crimes related to the manufacturing, possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs. These offenses are typically regulated by laws that vary in severity depending on specific drug involved. Examples of drug offenses commonly prosecuted include: 1. Possession: This involves having illegal drugs for personal use or with the intent to distribute. 2. Trafficking: The illegal transportation, importation, or distribution of controlled substances. 3. Manufacturing or cultivation: The illicit production or cultivation of controlled substances. 4. Prescription drug fraud: Obtaining or distributing prescription medications without a legitimate medical need or through falsified prescriptions. 5. Drug paraphernalia: The possession, sale, or distribution of equipment or materials specifically intended for drug use, such as pipes or syringes. Penalties for drug offenses can vary based on the specifics of the offense, including the type and quantity of drugs involved, prior convictions, and the intent of the individual. These penalties typically range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence.
Stealing
Are you charged or being investigated for stealing charge? At Sentry Legal, we will assist you by strategically identifying whether the elements to the charge of stealing are made out. Below are the elements typically found in a stealing offence: 1. Taking: The accused must physically take possession or control of someone else's property without permission or lawful authority. 2. Property: The stolen item must be something of value that belongs to someone else. It can be tangible or intangible property. 3. Ownership: The property must be owned by another person or entity, and the accused must have no legal right or claim to the ownership of the property. 4. Intent: The accused must have the intention to permanently deprive the owner of their property. This intent is often referred to as "the intent to permanently appropriate" or "the intent to steal." 5. Without Consent: The taking must be done without the consent of the owner. If the owner willingly gives permission, it generally doesn't qualify as stealing. 6. Unlawful: The taking must be against the law, meaning it must be done without legal justification or excuse. Your best option is to consult with a lawyer to assess whether the Prosecution is able to prove all the elements of stealing. Lack thereof will make it difficult for the Prosecution to proof beyond reasonable doubt that you have committed the offence of stealing leading to you being acquitted of the same.
Dedicated Legal Services
We are here to assist you achieving the most appropriate outcome you deserved. Whether your matter is simple or complex, our dedicated lawyers will assist you at every step of the way tailored towards your unique circumstances is our priority.
At Sentry Legal, we know every matter is unique and must always be treated as such. Therefore, navigating complex legal systems, identifying applicable laws and regulations, and developing strategies that align with your unique circumstances. Whether you are seeking legal assistance with Family matters, Criminal, Traffic, Restraining Orders, or Extraordinary License, we will guide you through the legal landscape while staying compliant.