Courts and criminal defence lawyers generally take a two-week break of the Christmas and New Year season. This 2020-2021 year, most courts will be closed from 25 December through to 10 January.
So, what happens if you get arrested over this time?
The NSW Police will still be arresting and charging people
Police don’t take a break and will be out in full swing over the silly season. If you’re arrested you’ll likely be taken to the police station for processing.
The police then decide whether they’ll let you go until you’re required back for your court date. This is called ‘police bail‘. If they don’t give you police bail, you’ll have to appear in front of a court for them to determine your bail.
So what if the courts are closed? Thankfully they don’t just pile everyone who’s been arrested up and keep them there until January 11.
What about bail?
If you require bail and the police are opposing your bail, you’ll appear in front of the Parramatta Bail Courts which will remain open over the Christmas break.
The Parramatta Bail Courts are open every day including weekends and will have duty Magistrates and duty legal aid solicitors.
Those duty solicitors will be able to help you out, but as soon as we re-open on 11 January, get in touch with us. If you’re not happy with your bail conditions or you need representation for your hearing we can assist you!
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Sarah is a civil solicitor who primarily practices in defamation, intentional torts against police, privacy and harassment.
