‘I am just going to duck in and grab the paper”

Many of us could be breaking the law every day and not even realise it.

Ever quickly ran into the newsagent to buy the paper on a Sunday?

What about popping in to pay for petrol?

Or maybe it was your shout to grab the 4 x soy lattes (extra hot) from your local cafe?

If you’ve done any of the above and left your windows down or car unlocked, then you might be in for a little surprise when you return to your car.

In NSW the police can fine you for not properly locking your car or winding up your windows.

What about, if no one is in the car? What if a child is left alone, do you need to take the keys out of the ignition?

THE LAW:

Regulation 213 (5) of the Road Rules 2014 (NSW) – Making a motor vehicle secure.

WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY?

Essentially if you are moving more than 3 meters away from your car, the car must be locked and the windows secured.

Interestingly, the windows can be left down by up to 2cm and still be secure.

This road rule also says that if you leave the vehicle unattended or with a child or person under 16, you must take the key out of the ignition (Regulation 213 (4)).

(You also need to be aware that leaving a child in the car alone can also be an offence section 231 Children and Young Persons Act 1998). More on that in another post.

WHAT IS THE PENALTY?

Get caught breaking this law and the police can fine you $114.

If you choose to take the matter to court, the maximum fine the court can impose is 20 penalty units ($2,200).

Something to think about the next time you duck in to grab a pizza. Delivery might be the cheaper option.

DO YOU NEED A TRAFFIC LAWYER ON THE CENTRAL COAST?

If you are going to court (even if you think you will ‘only get a fine’) you need a Central Coast Traffic Lawyer to help you.

Coastal Lawyers will provide you with simple language legal advice and set out your options prior to going to Court so you an informed decision.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO COURT?

Life isn’t perfect but your outfit can be!

Going to court? Not sure what to wear?

At Coastal Lawyers we are quite the fashionable bunch (or maybe we just like good old fashioned practical advice that people can use).

So here it is, Coastal Lawyers top fashion court trends for 2021 (and beyond).

DON’T GET TOO COMFORTABLE

Wear what makes you feel comfortable BUT…..not too comfortable. It is not a day out at the beach. You aren’t going out for cocktails or beers with your friends. It is a serious occasion and a serious environment, so dress with that in mind.

COVER UP THE TAT’S

First impressions last and while society has progressed and many of us lawyers now even have tattoos, the law and particularly the courts are still very conservative places. The Magistrate is unlikely to enjoy your ink as much as your friends.

CONSERVATIVE

Dressing conservatively shows that you respect the court process and are taking your matter seriously. This will not go unnoticed by the Magistrate.

So dress to impress but also dress in what makes you most comfortable and authentic.

You don’t want to be a nervous Nelly or a fidgety Fred because you have dressed in a suit for the first time or because you are wearing 6 inch heels when you are more comfortable in flat shoes.

• Men should preferably wear a suit and tie BUT if you are not comfortable in a suit then opt for some dress trousers and a button up shirt.

• Ladies, again a pant or dress suit is preferred however anything on the conservative side is better.

WHAT TO AVOID?

• Plunging necklines.

• Singlets

• Short skirts

• Shorts

• Thongs

• Showing off tattoos and piercings.

COASTAL LAWYERS TIP: If you don’t own any court suitable clothes then head down to your local op shop and you will be surprised what $20 can buy you.

Alternatively, put the call out on social media. You are bound to have some friends who can loan you an outfit for the day.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES/INFORMATION:

Courts and Government agencies:

• The Local Court NSW

• The District Court NSW

• Revenue NSW

• RMS

Legal Resources:

• Judicial Commission Website

• The Law Handbook

• Law Codes

Free Legal Advice:

• Law Access NSW

• Legal Aid NSW

DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEED A CENTRAL COAST LAWYER FOR COURT?

If you are going to court for a criminal law or traffic law matter on the Central Coast then Coastal Lawyers can help.

Coastal Lawyers attend the following Courts:

• Gosford Local Court

• Gosford District Court

• Wyong Local Court

• All Central Coast Children’s Courts.

Coastal Lawyers provide clear and easy to understand legal advice.

We pride ourselves on being frank, honest and open with our clients.

We set out all of your options in simple language so you can be confident to make decisions about your future.