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Aggravated Sexual Assault Lawyers | Expert legal defence and support

We’ve handled countless of Aggravated Sexual Assault cases and have a wealth of knowledge on how to pick out holes in the evidence and build a solid defence strategy. If you’ve been charged with aggravated sexual assault, call us immediately to protect your rights.

Have you been charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault?

Have you been charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault? If so, you're likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what steps to take next. At Faraj Defence Lawyers, we understand the gravity of this situation, and we want you to know that you're not alone. Our team is here to provide you with our undivided attention and support, guiding you through this challenging process with compassion and expertise. 

Aggravated Sexual Assault is a highly serious charge, classified as a strictly indictable offence and can be handled in the district court. The potential consequences of a conviction are severe and can have a lasting impact on your life. It's crucial to have the best possible legal representation to navigate these complex proceedings and protect your rights. Our team includes skilled lawyers, investigators, and experts who will leave no stone unturned in building your case.

Don't leave your future to chance, call us today for a free consultation at (02) 8896 6034, or by booking a free initial consultation at our  Parramatta office.

Why Choose Faraj Defence Lawyers for your Aggravated Sexual Assault Charge?

When facing the weight of an aggravated sexual assault charge, choosing the right legal representation can be the difference between a future filled with unfair consequences or one where your innocence is fiercely protected. At Faraj Defence Lawyers, we stand as your beacon of hope and unwavering support with unparalleled expertise in navigating the intricacies of sexual offences. Here's why choosing us is your best course of action:

01

Free initial consultation

We understand the importance of an initial assessment, which is why we offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case.

02

Expert Defence Strategies

We craft meticulous defence strategies aimed at securing favourable outcomes, including aiming and securing Section 10 dismissals & non-convictions.

03

Unwavering Support and Guidance

Unwavering support and guidance from the beginning to the resolution of your case, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout.

04

Negotiation Expertise

Our extensive knowledge on dealing with the prosecution has allowed us to develop expert negotiation strategies that will tip the scales in our favour.

05

Direct Access to Senior Criminal Lawyer

Direct access to a senior criminal lawyer who will oversee your case. Ensuring your matter is handled with the utmost expertise and attention it deserves.

06

Fixed Fees and Transparent Pricing

We believe in transparency. Our firm operates on fixed fees, providing clarity on costs from the outset. Eliminating any unexpected financial burdens.

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What is the offence of Aggravated Sexual Assault?

The offence of Aggravated Sexual Assault is a serious crime, prohibited under Section 61J of the Crimes Act 1900 in NSW, “Any person who has sexual intercourse with another person without the consent of the other person and in circumstances of aggravation and who knows that the other person does not consent to the sexual intercourse is liable to imprisonment for 20 years.”

Aggravated Sexual Assault occurs when a person commits sexual assault under aggravated circumstances, such as when the assault involves actual or grievous bodily harm, the use of a weapon or instrument, or is committed in company with another person. This offence is considered to be of an aggravated nature due to the additional elements or circumstances present during the commission of the assault, which heighten the severity of the offence.

How is Aggravated Sexual Assault different to Sexual Assault?

Aggravated Sexual Assault differs from Sexual Assault primarily in the presence of aggravating circumstances. While both offences involve non-consensual sexual acts, Aggravated Sexual Assault involves additional factors that aggravate the seriousness of the offence. 

What are the circumstances of aggravation?

In cases of aggravated sexual assault, circumstances of aggravation denote particular factors that heighten the severity of the offense. These aggravating circumstances encompass various elements which are listed in Section 61J of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW), these include; 

  • the defendant intentionally or recklessly inflicts or threatens actual bodily harm or grievous bodily harm on the complainant or any other person who is present or nearby, including by means of an offensive weapon or instrument,

  • the defendant was in the company of another person or persons,

  • the complainant is under 16 years of age,

  • the complainant is (whether generally or at the time of the commission of the offence) under the authority of the accused person,

  • the complainant has a serious physical disability,

  • the complainant is under 16 years of age,

  • the complainant is (whether generally or at the time of the commission of the offence) under the authority of the accused person,

  • the complainant is under 16 years of age,

  • the complainant has a serious physical disability,

  • the complainant has a cognitive impairment, 

  • the defendant deprives the complainant of their liberty for a period before or after the commission of the offence, or

  • the defendant breaks and enters into any dwelling-house or other building with the intention of committing the offence or any other serious indictable offence.

How do I beat an Aggravated Sexual Assault Charge?

Defendants facing an Aggravated Sexual Assault charge have several avenues to contest the allegations. The key strategy is to ensure that the prosecution cannot prove to a standard of beyond a reasonable doubt that the offence was committed. 

As the burden of proof rests on the prosecution, our defence focuses on undermining their case by challenging the evidence presented and casting doubt on the prosecution's narrative.

What must the prosecution prove for Aggravated Sexual Assault?

For a successful conviction of Aggravated Sexual Assault, the prosecution must establish several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These include 

  • Demonstrating that sexual intercourse took place between two individuals, with the crucial factor being that the victim did not provide consent. 

  • The perpetrator was aware of the lack of consent.

  • The sexual intercourse must have occurred under circumstances of aggravation, such as those outlined in the relevant legislation. 

To strengthen our defence, we scrutinise witness testimonies, examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident, and present evidence or arguments that refute the allegations. 

By effectively challenging the prosecution's case and raising reasonable doubt, we aim to secure a favourable outcome for our clients. we aim to gather compelling evidence that challenges each of these points, thereby safeguarding your position.

What is sexual intercourse?

Sexual intercourse refers to the physical act involving penetration of the genitals, typically the penis into the vagina, but it can also encompass other forms of penetration. Section 61HA of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) clearly defines Sexual intercourse as “the penetration to any extent of the genitalia or anus of a person by; (i) any part of the body of another person, (ii) or any objected manipulated by another person.”. 

What is consent?

Consent as outlined in section 61HI of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) defines it as, “ “consents” to a sexual activity if, at the time of the sexual activity, the person freely and voluntarily agrees to the sexual activity.”. It refers to the voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity, without coercion, intimidation or manipulation. 

Consent must be ongoing during the sexual encounter, meaning that consent can be revoked at any time if one party decides to withdraw their consent. Additionally individuals must have the mental capacity to give consent, meaning they must be of legal age and possess the mental competence to understand the nature of the sexual activity and its potential consequences.

What are the penalties for Aggravated Sexual Assault?

If found guilty of Aggravated Sexual Assault, the penalties can be severe. While the maximum penalty for sexual assault is 14 years of imprisonment, in cases where the offence is committed in circumstances of aggravation the maximum penalty increases to 20 years of imprisonment. 

However, it's important to note that full-time imprisonment isn't always imposed, and receiving the maximum penalty isn't guaranteed. Depending on various factors, such as the defendant's character and prior criminal record, alternative penalties may be available, including:

  • S10(1)(A) dismissal

  • Conditional release order without conviction

  • Fines

  • Community corrections orders, or 

  • Intensive corrections orders. 

Engaging with an expert criminal defence lawyer is crucial to navigating these complexities and increasing the likelihood of a favourable outcome. A skilled legal representative can assess the circumstances of the case, advocate on behalf of the defendant, and explore all available options for defence and mitigation.

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How can Faraj Defence Lawyers help?

Assisting you if you decide to plead not guilty

If you choose to plead not guilty to charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault, Faraj Defence Lawyers will support you with building a robust defense strategy. We understand the gravity of the situation and the importance of meticulously reviewing the evidence presented by the prosecution. 

Our experienced legal team will work diligently to gather additional evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare a compelling defence tailored to the specifics of your case. Throughout the legal proceedings, you can trust us to represent you vigorously in court, ensuring that your rights are protected and that your defence is presented with clarity and expertise.

Assisting you if you decide to plead guilty

If you decide to plead guilty to charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault, Faraj Defence Lawyers will guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. You can expect personalised assistance in gathering character references and drafting apology letters, which can be impactful in mitigating the consequences of your conviction. Our legal team will engage in negotiations with the prosecution on your behalf, striving to secure favourable terms following your guilty plea.

It's important to note that pleading guilty early in the legal process can lead to significant benefits, including a potential discount of up to 25% on your sentence. Therefore, we emphasise the importance of timely decision-making and strategic planning to optimise the outcome of your case. You can trust that we will do everything necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for you following your guilty plea, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment under the law.

Book a free consultation with our Expert Aggravated Sexual Assault Lawyers today

With Faraj Defence Lawyers, you can trust that you'll receive expert legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances. We will meticulously review the details of your case, craft a strategic defence strategy, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. 

Don't face these charges alone. Take the first step towards protecting your future, call us today for a free consultation at (02) 8896 6034, or by booking a free initial consultation at our  Parramatta office.  

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Meet Our team

Senior Criminal Lawyer/Principal

Ahmad Faraj

L.L.B, G.D.L.P

A senior criminal lawyer and the principal of Faraj Defence Lawyers. Ahmad is a highly accomplished lawyer in New South Wales, specialising in both criminal and traffic law matters.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Faraj Defence Lawyers is a Sydney based law firm specialising in criminal and traffic law matters.

When should I engage a lawyer when I’ve been charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault?

It's crucial to engage a lawyer as soon as possible after being charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault. The legal process can be complex and daunting, and having a skilled lawyer by your side from the outset can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Your lawyer can provide you with valuable advice on how to navigate the legal proceedings, protect your rights, and build a strong defence strategy. 

By involving a lawyer early on, you give yourself the best possible chance of achieving a favourable outcome. Your lawyer can immediately begin gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing your defence, ensuring that no crucial details are overlooked. Additionally, your lawyer can advise you on how to interact with law enforcement and handle any inquiries or requests from the prosecution. 

Ultimately, the sooner you engage a lawyer, the better positioned you'll be to protect your interests and effectively defend yourself against the charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault. Don't wait until it's too late—reach out to one of our qualified lawyers as soon as possible to start building your defence and securing your future.

Am I able to get my charges for Aggravated Sexual Assault dropped?

Whether or not your charges for Aggravated Sexual Assault can be dropped depends on various factors, including the evidence against you, the circumstances of the case, and the decisions made by the prosecution. In some cases, charges may be dropped if there is insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution or if there are legal issues that weaken the case against you. 

However, it's essential to understand that dropping charges is at the discretion of the prosecution, and they will carefully assess the strength of their case before making a decision. Additionally, dropping charges is not always a guaranteed outcome, especially in serious cases like Aggravated Sexual Assault.

Your best course of action is to consult with an experienced criminal defence lawyer who can assess the specifics of your case and advise you on your legal options. A skilled lawyer can work to build a strong defence strategy, negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf, and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case. Even if charges cannot be dropped, a lawyer may be able to secure a favourable resolution through plea bargaining or alternative sentencing options.

How long do Aggravated Sexual Assault Cases take to resolve?

If charged with aggravated sexual assault in NSW, your matter will go down what’s referred to as the “EAGP” process. 

This means that your matter will begin in the Local Court of NSW however, will finalise in the District Court of NSW as these are not “table” offences, but “strictly indictable” offences. 

If pleading guilty, you will be sentenced in the District Court of NSW. if pleading not guilty, your matter will proceed to a trial before a jury in the District Court of NSW. 

For guilty pleas, the process will usually take 6-9 months on average. For not guilty pleas, your matter can be on foot for roughly 12 months due to court timetables and obtaining trial dates.

What is the court process for Aggravated Sexual Assault charges?

The court process for Aggravated Sexual Assault charges typically involves several key stages. Firstly, there's the initial court appearance where you'll be formally informed of the charges and asked to enter a plea. 

Following this, there are pre-trial proceedings where both the prosecution and defence may address legal issues and discuss potential plea bargains. If the case proceeds to trial, evidence will be presented, witnesses will be examined, and a verdict will be reached. 

Finally, if found guilty or if you plead guilty, a sentencing hearing will be held to determine the appropriate punishment.

Should I prepare an apology letter?

Whether or not to prepare an apology letter depends on the specifics of your case and the advice of your legal counsel. In some situations, an apology letter may be appropriate as part of a strategy to express remorse or mitigate the consequences of your actions. However, it's essential to proceed cautiously and seek guidance from your lawyer before taking any action. 

An apology letter does ultimately mean admitting to guilt, so it is important to have a strategic plan in consultation with your lawyer before proceeding with such a step. Your lawyer can provide guidance on whether an apology letter is appropriate in your situation and can help you craft it in a way that conveys remorse without compromising your defence.

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We look forward to helping you in your time of need and assisting you in achieving justice. We know how stressful these times can be therefore, your enquiry will be responded to within the same day.

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