Case Study

Our client was charged with assault with intent to injure and two charges of assault on a person in a family relationship.  The complainant was his father.  He was held in custody for 189 days because he could not provide a bail address.  The only person who could offer a bail address was his father.

We worked very hard to secure bail for our client by first attempting to enrol him in a residential rehabilitation facility, however we were unsuccessful.  We also tried to find friends and family who could provide a bail address for our client, but unfortunately no one came through.  We also attempted to get our client into rehab but he was not accepted.

We found a rehabilitation house managed by the Grace Gate Church. This house accommodated four other men who were working to improve their lives.  Our client was initially denied bail to the proposed address but was later granted electronic monitoring bail to the same address.

Our client was sentenced to 1 year 7 months’ imprisonment. The Judge then deducted time served and commuted the remainder to home detention.  Our client was sentenced to 3.5 months’ home detention.

Finding a bail address for our client was a significant breakthrough, as it was the first time he had received consistent help and support to address his issues.  This address allowed our client to receive a community-based sentence and helped him to avoid incarceration.

The impact on our client’s life was transformational.  Our client is now determined to make permanent changes and avoid further re-offending.  He is committed to receiving and implementing all the wraparound support he is offered.  He is optimistic about his future and living a life that is free of crime.