Alan Phillips of our office was engaged to act for his client who had been charged with armed robbery with violence, burglary and possessing a weapon used in the commission of an indictable offence (this offence carries a minimum 2.5 years in actual custody). Our client initially contacted Alan Phillips as she was remanded in custody, having failed to appear and having had her parole suspended.
Alan Phillips listed his client's matter for a bail application in the Magistrates Court. This was opposed by the Crown and following a lengthy argument, the Magistrate granted bail, despite her previously failing to appear noting our submissions about the weaknesses in the evidence against her. She was released on strict conditions including a surety and curfew.
The matter progressed to the District Court of Queensland. She was indicted on armed robbery in company amongst other charges. Alan Phillips reviewed the evidence in the brief and sent a submission to the Crown that they should accept a plea of guilty to an accessory after the fact allegation instead. That submission was accepted. Our client pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment, wholly suspended. She was therefore not required to go into custody. The other offender received 5 years imprisonment, cumulative to his existing sentences.
Proper management of the matter allowed for a resolution for our client which avoided her spending many years in actual custody. Armed robbery carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
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