Category: Blog

This case study aims to ensure you are aware of the mobile phone/driving rules, compliant and help keep everyone safe on the roads. Let’s face it, driving is one of the most dangerous things we do and we do it frequently.

I see it every single day…. People driving while texting or holding their phone. They swerve, move into other lanes, they look down when the road is ahead. It’s just as frustrating as when I see people applying mascara while waiting at the traffic lights. So many of us are guilty of looking at and playing with our phones while driving. I received a warning a month ago after being detected on Port Road, Hindmarsh. Luckily, I was notified during the grace period. I felt rather foolish as I was looking at Google Maps to find the dentist and was about 10 minutes late. Life is fast and distractions are everywhere.

The grace period is over and the stats are shocking.

The Statistics:

Over the past five years, distraction has played a significant part in causing crashes that resulted in 1,285 serious injuries and 198 lives lost in South Australia. Between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2022, 33,982 expiations were issued by SA Police members to drivers/riders for using a mobile phone whilst driving.

Adelaide’s newly installed mobile phone detection cameras have captured a staggering 2544 drivers using their phones behind the wheel in just their first week of operation, leading to $1.67 million in fines. The following week yielded a further $1.7 million in fines.

Three repeat offenders have already been caught so many times that they’ve been stripped of their licences.

Mobile Phone Detection Technology

Automated Detection

The South Australian government has invested millions in mobile phone detection cameras (MPDCs). The cameras are strategically placed across Adelaide and can be found in the following areas:

• Southern Expressway, Darlington
• South Road, Torrensville
• North South Motorway, Regency Park
• Port Road, Hindmarsh
• Port Wakefield Road, Gepps Cross.

The cameras capture high-quality images of drivers frequently using mobile phones.

Rules Governing Mobile Phone Use While Driving

What’s Legal and What’s Not

Under rule 300 of the Australian Road Rules, using a mobile phone while driving is an offence unless the vehicle is parked. Actions that constitute an offence include:

• Holding a Phone: Even if you are not on a call.
• Texting or Entering Information: Including messaging or browsing.
• Viewing or Sending Content: Any interaction with content on the phone.
• Operating Phone Functions: Unless the phone is mounted in a proper holder.

Starting from 19 June 2024, additional exceptions allow using a mobile phone in a stationary vehicle for activities like paying for goods or showing electronic coupons. However, learner and provisional (P1) drivers have stricter regulations, prohibiting the use of any mobile phone technology, including hands-free modes, while driving.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

What Happens If You Get Caught?

Non-compliance can lead to crushing penalties:

• Monetary Fines: A significant fine of $540 plus a $99 victims of crime levy.
• Demerit Points: Three points added to your driving record.
• Licence Risk: Repeat offenders may face losing their licences, as evidenced by three repeat offenders within the first week of camera operation.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the immediate penalties:

• Increased Safety Risks: Non-compliance increases the chances of causing or being involved in accidents.
• Serious Charges: Severe cases can lead to charges such as negligent driving or cause death by dangerous driving, if an accident occurs.

How to Avoid Fines and Penalties

We understand life is busy, and staying compliant with road rules can sometimes be challenging. Here’s how you can drive safely and avoid fines:

• Use Hands-Free Devices: Connect your phone via Bluetooth or use a suitable cradle to keep your hands on the wheel.
• Disable Notifications: Activate ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode while driving to avoid distractions.
• Plan Ahead: Enter the necessary information into GPS before starting your journey.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check for updates on laws and regulations to ensure compliance.

Handling Disputes

We understand that sometimes fines can be issued unfairly. If you believe you have been wrongly fined, consider the following steps for disputing the fine:

• Incorrect Detection: Challenge the accuracy of the detection equipment.
• Improper Notice: If there were no proper warning signs about detection cameras.
• Emergency Situations: Prove that a valid emergency necessitated the phone use.

Practical Steps

• Timely Response: Address fine notifications promptly.
• Legal Advice: Consult or hire a lawyer to navigate the dispute process effectively.
• Evidence Collection: Gather phone records, GPS data, or witness statements.
• Documentation: Keep all correspondence and notices organised.

Understanding the comprehensive rules, detection methods, and consequences of mobile phone use while driving helps everyone. Staying compliant ensures your safety and that of others, helping to avoid accidents and hefty fines. If a legal dispute arises, taking informed and timely action can lead to favourable outcomes.

We are here to provide legal help!

Driving can be stressful enough without the added worry of potential fines or loss of your drivers licence. If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding mobile phone detection and penalties, contact Adelaide Legal Solutions today for a one hour consult today! We are here to help you navigate the complexities of the law, ensure compliance, and protect your rights.

• Email: info@alslaw.com.au

Take control of your driving habits today. Drive responsibly and stay informed. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.

Today, I was announced as the female Vice President of the Law Society Council of South Australia. I am honoured but also terrified by this appointment. Reflecting on my 16 years as a lawyer, 11 years as a mother, and 13 years in business, I wondered why I feel this way. The answer: imposter syndrome. This study explores the phenomenon of imposter syndrome and the experiences of prominent legal figures who have faced and overcome it, providing valuable lessons that I have drawn from in my journey.

Lawyers Weekly published two great articles:

Challenging impostor syndrome begins at the top, High Court judge says – Lawyers Weekly

Supreme Court judge on the biases that shape impostor syndrome – Lawyers Weekly

Justice Ierodiaconou faced imposter syndrome shortly after her appointment to the High Court. I am so appreciative that she has publicly shared this! While at an event with a male barrister, a senior barrister remarked “really nice to meet your daughter” to the barrister that she was standing alongside. When corrected and told Justice Ierodiaconou was just appointed, the senior barrister followed up with, “Oh, you’re a Magistrate?”

The slipup did not end there, with the senior barrister then having assumed that Justice Ierodiaconou must have been a County Court Magistrate.

These comments made Justice Ierodiaconou question herself. She wondered if it was something she had done. She wondered why she was facing bias. She did a deep dive asking if it was due to her gender, age, and or ethnicity.

 It is surprising that someone elevated to a position of such honour would be humbled by the utterances of another person. However, at times we seem to forget that even the most elevated and successful amongst us are still human beings with thoughts and feelings. Some even have “a never good enough mentality” which often explains overachievement.

Justice Ierodiaconou commented in Lawyers’ Weekly, “While this was happening, I felt astonished, but I also started to think, is it something I’m wearing? I had to step back out of myself because it was starting to make me feel like I don’t belong [and] maybe I’m not cut out to be a judicial officer”

I applaud Her Honour for speaking out. This imposter phenomenon is crushing for many of us. It is only through making these public statements that others, most especially working mothers can try to smash the proverbial glass ceiling that suffocates us.

During the 2024 Minds Count Lecture, Justice Gleeson emphasised the need for senior legal professionals to be open about vulnerabilities to support younger practitioners. She highlighted the importance of self-care and counselling.

Justice Gleeson stated, “When we hide our vulnerabilities, we give the impression that we are invulnerable. Junior practitioners may think they are the only ones struggling with self-doubt”

My Journey and Lessons Learned

Reflecting on my own experiences, I have faced significant self-doubt, especially during major career milestones. My recent appointment as Vice President of the Law Society was both an honour and a source of anxiety, triggering intense feelings of imposter syndrome. However, I have drawn valuable lessons from the experiences of Justices Ierodiaconou, Gucciardo, and Gleeson:

• Adopting a Growth Mindset: Like Justice Ierodiaconou, I have embraced lifelong learning and view challenges as opportunities for growth. I am often listening to the stoic principles of Marcus Aurelius who says: The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts”.
• Building Supportive Relationships: Establishing connections within the legal profession has been essential for mutual support and perspective.
• Acknowledging and Addressing Biases: Recognising and confronting biases that affect self-perception has been crucial for my self-confidence.
• Accepting Natural Doubts and Feelings: Understanding that doubts are natural and do not equate to incompetence, as demonstrated by Judge Gucciardo.
• Seeking Professional Advice: Engaging with mentors for strategies on handling imposter syndrome, as highlighted by Justice Gleeson.

Last Words

Imposter syndrome is more prevalent in the legal profession than most of us professionals would like to admit.  Fear not, it can be managed through self-awareness, supportive relationships, and a commitment to growth. Drawing from the experiences of those in the highest esteem of the profession, I have gained insights that have better equipped me to face my new responsibilities with confidence and a positive outlook.

Lease Agreement Advisory Services for a Commercial Business

Background

Lease Agreements are often confusing, lengthy and complex. Sometimes, deliberately so. Often multiple pages of jumble that a business owner simply signs without turning their mind to the consequences. It is dangerous to sign a document you do not understand. It can cause you to become trapped in a contract that can have profound legal and financial consequences.

Our client, an emerging retail commercial business operating interstate, sought our assistance when expanding nationally. We reviewed and advised on a lease agreement in South Australia. This legal step is critical before committing to a new lease agreement. If the client entered into this agreement without full and proper advice, they could stall or impact their business success. Careful review of the legal documents and straightforward legal guidance is important to help reduce risks. We ensure all terms and conditions are brought to the attention of the business owner and that the terms and conditions are fair and lawful. Often, such terms are not fair, nor lawful, and you need to know. When you are fully aware that terms are unfair or unlawful, then you will have an opportunity to negotiate more favourable terms.

Signing a lease without advice is not worth the risk. A small investment today can help reduce risk of financial loss, or potential insolvency in the future. Our fees start from as little as $750 and can save you time, stress, money and provide security for your business growth into the future.

Service Provided for our Client

We provided a comprehensive legal advisory service, including:

1. Review of the complex Lease Agreement: We conducted a thorough review of the draft lease agreement provided by the landlord’s solicitor. This draft included details such as the base rent, additional rent, outgoings, maintenance responsibilities, and other critical terms. Key documents reviewed included the Retail and Commercial Leasing Guide and the Draft Lease – Commercial.
2. Legal Recommendations: Detailed legal advice was given concerning the terms, conditions, and obligations outlined in the agreement, including responsibilities for maintenance and repairs, the inclusion of specific terms related to the permitted use of the premises, and the potential financial implications for the client.
3. Financial Obligations: We highlighted the importance of understanding all financial obligations under the lease. This involved going over each category of outgoings and any additional costs that may arise, ensuring the client was fully aware of potential financial commitments.
4. Clarity of Terms: We ensured the lease terms were clear and comprehensible, addressing sections that were ambiguous or potentially disadvantageous to our client. This included advising on the need for certain representations and commitments to be clearly outlined in the lease.

Critical Findings and Advice

• Clarity of the Lease: The reviewed lease agreement was clear in stating the responsibilities and obligations of both the landlord and the tenant. However, some ambiguous terms required further clarification to avoid potential disputes in the future. The outgoings were ambiguous or vague as were the terms of end of lease. There were provisions at the end of the lease that our client had not understood that would have cost them tens of thousands.
• Risks Without Legal Advice: Not seeking legal advice before signing a lease can result in significant risks, including:
  • Unclear terms leading to potential disputes over responsibilities and financial obligations.
  • Undisclosed costs or additional financial burdens not immediately apparent to the lessee.
  • Legal consequences of non-compliance or breach of lease terms without a full understanding of the implications.

Case Outcome

Following our detailed review and recommendations, our client was able to negotiate more favourable terms with the landlord. Critical representations and commitments were clearly incorporated into the final lease agreement, safeguarding the client’s interests and ensuring a fair and balanced contractual relationship.

How we can help your Business

For businesses entering into lease agreements, especially those in the retail and commercial sectors, it is important to seek professional legal advice. The complexity of lease agreements demands comprehensive understanding and clarity to avoid costly disputes and unforeseen liabilities. Ensure your lease terms are fair, clear, and legally sound by consulting with our legal professionals before making any commitments.

For professional assistance with your lease agreements, contact our experienced lawyers at Adelaide Legal Solutions. We are dedicated to providing thorough and reliable legal services to ensure your business interests are protected. Email your enquiry today info@alslaw.com.au or call us on 08 8312 6440.

BC v MC [2024] SASC 81

Judgment of the Honourable Justice McDonald

Case Overview

This case study examines an appeal against an interim intervention order issued under the Intervention Orders (Prevention of Abuse) Act 2009 (SA). The appellant contested the Magistrate’s decision to issue the order based solely on affidavit evidence.

Background

The appellant and respondent, former domestic partners, ended their relationship in January 2024. The respondent sought an interim intervention order citing harassment. The Magistrate issued the order on 23 January 2024, based solely on the respondent’s affidavit, naming the respondent and their two children as protected persons.

Objectives of the Appeal

1. Challenge Procedural Validity: Question the legality of issuing an interim order based on affidavit evidence in a private application.
2. Address Practical Consequences: Consider the significant adverse impacts on the appellant, including restricted contact with their children.

Key Issues

1. Statutory Interpretation: Whether the Magistrate had the authority to issue the order based solely on affidavit evidence in a private case.
2. Practical Implications: The order’s impact on the appellant’s everyday activities and liberty without prior notice or hearing.

Legal Arguments

Appellant’s Position

1. Lack of Police Involvement: Argued that section 21(6) of the Act precludes issuing an order based solely on affidavit evidence in a private application.
2. Significant Consequences: Highlighted the severe impacts on contact with children and criminalisation of regular activities.

Respondent’s Position

1. Necessity for Protection: Argued that the order was necessary due to the immediate risk posed by the appellant.

Court’s Deliberation

The Court considered:

1. If the appeal raises an important question of law.
2. The appropriateness of the Magistrate’s decision based on the evidence.

Outcome of the Case

The Court granted leave to appeal, recognising a substantial legal question about the authority to issue such orders in private applications. The final decision on the appeal remains pending.

Lessons Learned

1. Procedural Adherence: Emphasis on strict adherence to statutory requirements for issuing legal orders.
2. Robust Evidence: Importance of balanced evidence in judicial decisions, especially in ex parte proceedings.
3. Impact on Liberties: Recognition of the broader personal impacts of legal decisions.

Conclusion

The case highlights the complexities of issuing interim intervention orders and the necessity of procedural rigour to ensure fairness.

Call to Action

If you face similar legal issues, seek professional legal assistance. Ensuring your rights are protected while seeking justice is critical.

For legal support, contact:

Adelaide Legal Solutions

• Phone: 08 8312 6440
• Email: info@alslaw.com.au
• Address: 30A Halifax Street, Adelaide, SA 5000

Professional guidance and comprehensive support are available for navigating complex legal issues.