Specialist Defence Lawyers Serving Sydney CBD and The Hills District

Being accused of a sexual offence is one of the most serious and life-altering events a person can experience. Even before a matter reaches court, the mere allegation can cause irreparable damage to your reputation, family life, and career. In New South Wales, these charges carry the highest social stigma and often result in significant custodial sentences if a conviction is recorded.

At Hughes Law, we provide a sophisticated, discreet, and highly strategic defence for all sexual offence allegations. Led by principal Belinda Hughes (a former government prosecutor) we understand the immense pressure involved. We specialise in deconstructing the prosecution case, meticulously analysing complainant statements, and ensuring that your right to a fair trial is protected at every stage.

Specialist Sexual 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:

• Sexual Assault: Representing clients facing allegations of non-consensual sexual intercourse or “digital penetration.”
• Indecent Assault: Defending charges involving an “indecent” act or touching without consent.
• Sexual Touching: Matters involving the intentional touching of another person without their consent in a sexual manner.
• Child-Related Offences: High-stakes representation for allegations involving minors or the possession of prohibited material.
• Historical Sexual Offences: Specialist defence for allegations dating back years or decades, where the reliability of memory and evidence is a primary focus.
• Recordings and Intimate Images: Legal assistance for charges related to the non-consensual sharing or filming of intimate acts (often referred to as “revenge porn”).

Our Approach to Complex Allegations

Sexual offence cases often rely almost entirely on the testimony of a single person, with little to no physical or forensic evidence. When you engage Hughes Law, you benefit from a defence focused on:

• In-Depth Statement Analysis: We review complainant statements to find inconsistencies, contradictions or evidence of a motive to be untruthful.
• Consent and Honest Belief: We specialise in the legal definitions of consent. We examine whether consent was given and whether there was an honest and reasonable belief that consent existed at the time.
• Challenging Forensic and Digital Evidence: In cases involving DNA or digital evidence such as text messages or social media logs, we work with experts to ensure the data is interpreted correctly and fairly.
• Strict Discretion and Confidentiality: We understand the sensitive nature of these charges. We maintain absolute confidentiality and work to resolve matters as discreetly as possible to limit public and professional exposure.

Protecting Your Liberty and Reputation

Our primary goal is to ensure the best possible legal outcome while managing the severe collateral consequences of a charge. We focus on:

• Contesting the Allegations: We provide expert advocacy in “not guilty” hearings and trials, ensuring every piece of prosecution evidence is tested under cross-examination.
• The Sex Offenders Register: We provide clear advice on the long-term implications of a conviction, including mandatory reporting requirements and the impact on working with children.
• Bail Applications: Sexual offences are often “show cause” offences, meaning it is harder to get bail. We have the expertise to prepare the robust applications required to secure your release while awaiting trial.

Take the Next Step

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a sexual offence, do not speak to anyone until you have secured legal representation. Every word you say can be used to build a case against you.

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 lawyer who understands the Sydney and Hills District court systems:

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