Policy Bulletin 2021/1 Crime Policy: Contempt of court

19 Mar 2021

In October 2020 the Legal Aid NSW Board approved a policy allowing for representation in some criminal Contempt of Court matters.

Background

Previously, Legal Aid NSW eligibility policies aid did not cover matters relating to criminal contempt of court. Contempt matters were dealt with on a case-by-case basis. In October 2020, the Legal Aid NSW Board approved a policy allowing for representation in some criminal contempt matters to ensure that people who are at risk of gaol can access legal aid.

  • What has changed?

    Legal aid is available for the following contempt matters:

    • to defend a charge of contempt, 
    • representation in sentence proceedings, and 
    • applications to discharge a sentence for contempt.  

    The means and/or merit tests apply. Details of the policy can be found on Crime policy 2.9 Criminal contempt of court.

Commencement date

The Contempt of Court policy applies to applications determined on or after 22 March 2021.

Contact for further information

Email Aideen McGarrigle from Client Eligibility Unit or phone 02 9219 5701.