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Property Offences

Expert Defence Lawyers Serving The Hills District and Greater Sydney

A conviction for a property or dishonesty offence can have a devastating impact on your future. Beyond the potential for imprisonment, these charges carry a significant stigma that can prevent you from working in finance, government, or any role requiring a high level of trust. In the eyes of an employer, a record for theft or fraud is often seen as a permanent mark against your character.

At Hughes Law, we provide a sophisticated and rigorous defence for all property-related charges. Led by principal Belinda Hughes (a former government prosecutor) we understand exactly how the police compile their evidence, from CCTV analysis to fingerprint and DNA tracking. We work to identify procedural errors and negotiate with the police to have charges withdrawn or downgraded early in the process.

Specialist Property Offence Services

With practical experience from both sides of the criminal justice system, we provide a robust defence for all allegations under the Crimes Act 1900, including:

  • Theft and Larceny: Charges involving the taking of property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
  • Robbery: Serious allegations involving the taking of property through the use of force or the threat of violence.
  • Break and Enter: Defending charges related to entering a dwelling or business premises with the intent to commit an indictable offence, such as theft or assault.
  • Malicious Damage to Property: Matters involving the intentional or reckless destruction or damaging of property belonging to another.
  • Receiving Stolen Property: Representation for charges of possessing or disposing of goods that were obtained through a criminal act.
  • Shoplifting and Minor Larceny: Strategic defence for lower-level theft matters with a focus on avoiding a criminal record.

Why Your Choice of Lawyer Matters

Property offences often hinge on technical legal definitions, such as “intent” or “lawful possession.” When you engage Hughes Law, you benefit from:

  • The Prosecutor’s Perspective: We analyse the police brief of evidence to identify where the prosecution may struggle to prove the essential elements of the charge, such as whether you actually intended to steal the item.
  • Challenging Identification Evidence: Many property charges rely on grainy CCTV or witness identification. We specialise in challenging the reliability of this evidence to create reasonable doubt.
  • Negotiating for Withdrawals: We proactively engage with the police to show that the evidence is insufficient or that a “claim of right” exists, often leading to charges being dropped before they reach a hearing.
  • Honest and Direct Advice: We provide a clear assessment of your case, ensuring you understand the potential outcomes and the best path forward to protect your record.

Take the Next Step

If you have been charged with a property offence, do not speak to the police until you have received legal advice. Early intervention is the key to a successful defence.

Call 0422 388 370 | Email: [email protected]

Sydney CBD Office: Level 21, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000

Hills District Office: Level 5, Nexus Norwest, 4 Columbia Court, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153

Suburbs We Serve

Our specialist legal services extend across the following areas, ensuring you have a local lawyer who understands the Sydney and Hills District court systems:

  • The Hills District: Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Kellyville, Norwest, Bella Vista, Beaumont Hills, Rouse Hill, North Kellyville, West Pennant Hills, and Dural.
  • Sydney CBD and Inner City: Sydney City, Haymarket, Surry Hills, Pyrmont, Ultimo, Darlinghurst, and Glebe.
  • Western Sydney: Parramatta, Blacktown, Seven Hills, Toongabbie, Northmead, Penrith, and Westmead.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between Larceny and Robbery?
    Larceny is the simple taking of someone else’s property without permission. Robbery is a much more serious “aggravated” offence because it involves the use of force, or the threat of force, against a person to take that property. Robbery charges often carry the risk of imprisonment.
    What if I thought I had a right to the property?
    This is known as a “Claim of Right.” In NSW, you may have a legal defence if you had a genuine belief that you had a lawful right to the property, even if that belief was mistaken. We specialise in identifying and arguing this defence to have charges dismissed.
    Can I be charged with Break and Enter if I didn't steal anything?
    Yes. You can be charged with “Break and Enter with Intent” if the police believe you entered the premises to commit a crime, even if you were caught before you could take anything. The “break” part can be as simple as opening a closed door or window.
    Will a theft conviction stop me from working in finance?
    Most financial institutions and professional bodies have strict rules against employing individuals with convictions for dishonesty. This is why our primary goal for professional clients is almost always to fight for a Section 10 non-conviction.
    What is Malicious Damage to Property?
    This charge applies if you intentionally or recklessly damage property belonging to someone else. This can include anything from graffiti to breaking a phone or a window during an argument. We often negotiate to have these matters resolved through the payment of compensation (restitution) rather than a criminal conviction.
    Should I give a statement to the police?
    No. We strongly advise that you do not participate in a police interview until you have spoken to us. In property matters, police often use interviews to get you to admit to “intent” or “knowledge” that they otherwise cannot prove.