39 Sexual assault charges withdrawn after a three-year fight
Three years in the NSW criminal system, dealing with highly complex set of circumstances and complex sexual assault communications privilege arguments.
Velasquez Legal is relieved to confirm that the prosecution has withdrawn all counts of serious sexual assault laid against our client.
No details of the matter are published here. The identity of every person involved is protected by law, and nothing in this post should be read as referring to any particular case, court or person.
What it took
Three years. Charges of this gravity are not withdrawn because someone asks nicely. They are withdrawn because the defence does the slow, unglamorous work: obtaining and reading every page of the brief, issuing subpoenas for material the prosecution did not hold, testing forensic and digital evidence, briefing experts, and being prepared for a difficult trial.
That work happened over years, not weeks, — through long nights, early mornings and weekend work. Through adjournments, changes in prosecutor, and the pressure that comes with defending charges that carry decades of imprisonment.
Counsel
Our client was represented at the bar by Lesly Bewsher, whose preparation, deep dedication and advocacy in this matter were as put by of the highest level. Results like this are the product of a defence team, and Ms Bewsher's contribution and leadership was central to it.
The part nobody sees
Three years facing outstanding charges is three years of a life on hold. Compliance with strict bail conditions. Legal costs. The presumption of innocence is a legal principle, but it is not how the world treats a person facing allegations of this kind.
When charges are withdrawn, none of that is refunded. It is worth saying plainly: a person is innocent unless and until proven guilty, and the years spent proving the prosecution cannot meet that standard are years they do not get back.
If you have been charged
If you or someone close to you is facing sexual assault or other serious criminal charges in NSW, get advice early. The material that ultimately decides a case is often available in the first months — and easiest to secure then. Contact us for a confidential discussion and expert advice regarding alleged sexual assault charges.
Every case turns on its own facts and evidence. Past results are not a guarantee, prediction or indication of the outcome of any other matter. This post is general information only and is not legal advice.
Velasquez Legal — criminal defence, Sydney and Regional New South Wales.
