Professional Experience
Tristan regularly appears in a broad range of criminal and traffic cases, including:
- Bail applications to the Local, District, and Supreme Courts of New South Wales,
- Sentencing proceedings in the Local and District Courts of New South Wales,
- Complex Local Court defended hearing,
- Domestic violence matters (including apprehended violence orders),
- Serious sexual violence matters,
- White collar crimes,
- Complex drug supply and possession crimes,
- Applications pursuant to s 14 and 19 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020 (NSW) (formerly known as s 32 of the Mental Health (Forensic Provisions) Act 1990),
- All manner of appeals, including licence appeals in the Local Court, severity and conviction appeals in the District Court, and
- Indictable matters.
Background
Tristan firmly believes that every person has a right to due process. He understands that criminal charges can cause significant stress and anxiety and he treats each client with respect, dignity, and empathy – irrespective of their circumstances. He also appreciates that the criminal justice system can be difficult to navigate, and he aims to guide clients clearly and efficiently through each step of their case.
Results
Our client came before the Court after being charged with driving with an illicit drug present in oral fluid and subsequently having his licence suspended.
For this client, the consequences were immediate and severe. He was employed full-time as a taxi driver and relied entirely on his licence to earn an income and support himself and his family. If the suspension remained in place, he faced a 3-month loss of licence and likely loss of employment.
The matter proceeded by way of an appeal against the licence suspension, requiring the Court to determine whether the decision of Transport for NSW should be set aside.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client urgently, gathered detailed subjective material, and prepared persuasive oral submissions addressing the exceptional hardship that would result if the suspension continued.
Appearing on the client’s behalf, Tristan Appleton submitted that the suspension would have devastating employment consequences and that the Court should exercise its discretion to intervene.
After considering the evidence and submissions, the Court allowed the appeal and set aside the decision to suspend the client’s licence.
As a result, the client was able to retain his licence, continue working as a taxi driver, and avoid the serious financial consequences of losing his livelihood.
Why this result matters: Licence suspension appeals can be crucial for workers who depend on driving to earn a living. Early legal advice, strong evidence, and effective advocacy can make the difference between losing and keeping a licence.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court charged with stalk or intimidate intending to cause fear of physical or mental harm after police alleged she threatened to kill her mother during an argument at their home.
Domestic violence related offences are treated seriously by the Courts and can result in criminal convictions, apprehended orders, and lasting consequences for employment and reputation. In this matter, our client was employed full-time, had no prior criminal history, and was deeply concerned about the impact a conviction would have on her future.
From an early stage, it became clear that the alleged offending was closely connected to the client’s mental health and that treatment, rather than punishment, was the appropriate path forward.
A key issue in the case was whether the client was suitable for diversion under the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020 (NSW).
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client promptly, arranged a psychological assessment, and obtained expert evidence addressing the client’s mental health condition, treatment needs, and the connection between her condition and the alleged conduct.
Tristan Appleton then prepared and conducted a detailed application under section 14 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020, submitting that continued treatment in the community was the most appropriate outcome.
After considering the evidence and submissions, the Court granted the application and discharged the client into the care of her treating psychologist.
As a result, no conviction was recorded, protecting the client’s future employment prospects and ensuring she was not punished for behaviour directly linked to her mental health.
Why this result matters: Where mental health issues play a significant role in alleged offending, early legal advice and prompt psychological intervention can be critical in securing a treatment-focused outcome rather than a criminal conviction.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm after police alleged she assaulted another patron at a nightclub and caused injury.
Assault occasioning actual bodily harm is a serious violence offence in New South Wales and carries significant potential penalties, including a criminal conviction, community-based orders, and in some matters imprisonment. A conviction can also affect employment, travel, and future opportunities.
Our client was employed full-time and had no prior criminal history. She was particularly concerned about the impact a conviction would have on her employment and future aspirations.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton carefully reviewed the police evidence, advised the client on the likely sentencing outcome, and prepared detailed subjective material for the Court.
That material included evidence of the client’s prior good character, employment history, remorse, and the broader personal circumstances relevant to sentence. Tristan Appleton then made submissions seeking leniency and urging the Court not to record a conviction.
After considering the evidence and submissions, the Court dealt with the matter by way of a Conditional Release Order without conviction.
As a result, no conviction was recorded, allowing the client to avoid a criminal record and protect her employment and future prospects.
Why this result matters: Even in serious assault matters, early legal advice, strong subjective material, and careful advocacy can significantly improve the final outcome.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client came to Court after being charged with low range drink driving and having his driver licence immediately suspended by police.
Immediate police suspensions can have devastating practical consequences. In this matter, our client was employed full-time, had no prior criminal history, was the primary breadwinner for a young family, and relied on his licence to continue working and supporting those dependent upon him.
If the suspension remained in place, the client faced a 3-month loss of licence, with likely job loss and significant hardship for his family.
Appeals against immediate police suspensions are often difficult and require the Court to be satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances justifying intervention.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client urgently, gathered substantial subjective evidence, and prepared detailed oral submissions demonstrating the hardship that would result if the suspension continued.
Appearing on the client’s behalf, Tristan Appleton persuaded the Court that exceptional circumstances existed and that the suspension should be lifted.
The Court allowed the appeal and set aside the police decision to suspend the client’s licence.
As a result, the client was able to retain his licence, continue working, and keep supporting his young family.
Why this result matters: Licence suspension appeals are challenging matters that require prompt action and strong preparation. With early legal advice and compelling evidence, it is possible to successfully challenge a police suspension and protect a client’s livelihood.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court charged with three counts of possessing prohibited drugs after police alleged she was in possession of three different illicit substances at a public venue.
Drug possession offences can have serious consequences, including a criminal conviction, fines, and reputational damage. For this client, the stakes were particularly high as she was employed full-time, had no prior criminal history, and was not an Australian citizen. A conviction had the potential to affect both her employment and future citizenship application.
A key issue identified early in the matter was whether police had properly particularised and proved the alleged substances.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton carefully reviewed the prosecution evidence, advised the client on the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and engaged in strategic negotiations with police.
As a result of those negotiations undertaken by Tristan Appleton, police agreed to withdraw two of the three charges.
The remaining matter proceeded to sentence, where detailed submissions and strong subjective material were placed before the Court. The Court ultimately dismissed the matter pursuant to section 10(1)(a) of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, meaning no conviction was recorded.
This outcome allowed the client to avoid a criminal record, protect her employment, and limit any potential impact on her future citizenship application.
Why this result matters: Early analysis of the evidence, careful negotiations with police, and strong preparation for sentence can significantly improve the outcome of drug matters and protect a client’s future.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court charged with driving with a middle range prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA) after police alleged she drove with a mid-range blood alcohol reading.
Mid range drink driving is a serious traffic offence in New South Wales and can attract fines, licence disqualification, and a criminal conviction. For many people, a conviction can also create difficulties with future employment, travel, and reputation.
In this matter, our client had recently retired from the military and had one prior drink driving matter on her record. She was particularly concerned that a conviction or loss of licence would affect her future employment prospects and ability to move forward following retirement.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client from an early stage and prepared detailed subjective material for the Court, including her military service, prior contributions to the community, personal circumstances, and future plans.
Appearing on her behalf, Tristan Appleton made submissions seeking leniency and emphasised that the offending was out of character and that the client had taken meaningful steps to address the matter.
After considering the evidence and submissions, the Court dealt with the offence by way of a Conditional Release Order without conviction.
Importantly, no conviction was recorded, and the client was able to retain her licence, allowing her to continue her transition into civilian life without the burden of a criminal record.
Why this result matters: Strong subjective material and early legal advice can make a significant difference in drink driving matters, particularly where a client has an otherwise positive history and genuine future prospects.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court facing multiple firearms-related charges after police alleged he possessed an unauthorised air rifle, that the firearm was unregistered, and that it had not been stored in accordance with legal requirements.
Firearms offences are treated seriously in New South Wales and can lead to criminal convictions, fines, restrictions on future firearm ownership, and other significant consequences. Even where the firearm involved is an air rifle, the Courts expect strict compliance with registration, authorisation, and safe storage laws.
Our client was retired and had no prior history of firearms offending. He was deeply concerned about the prospect of receiving a criminal conviction and the impact that would have on his future standing and reputation.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client at an early stage and gathered detailed subjective material for the Court, including evidence of his prior good character, personal circumstances, and lack of previous offending.
Tristan Appleton then presented submissions seeking leniency and emphasised that the offending occurred in circumstances where the client had otherwise led a law-abiding life.
After considering the material placed before it, the Court dealt with the matter by way of Conditional Release Orders without conviction.
As a result, no criminal conviction was recorded, allowing the client to move forward without the lasting consequences of a criminal record.
Why this result matters: Firearms matters can carry serious long-term consequences. Early legal advice, strong preparation, and carefully presented subjective material can significantly improve the final outcome.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court charged with three counts of larceny and one count of unlawfully obtaining goods after police alleged she stole several items from a shopping centre.
Larceny and related dishonesty offences are treated seriously by the Courts and can result in criminal convictions, fines, community-based orders, or imprisonment depending on the circumstances. Even where imprisonment is unlikely, a conviction can have lasting consequences for a person’s reputation, travel, employment opportunities, and overall standing in the community.
In this matter, our client was retired, had no prior criminal history, and was experiencing a complex and significant mental health history at the time of the offending. It was clear from an early stage that her mental health condition required proper treatment and that the Court should be asked to consider a therapeutic response rather than punishment.
A key issue in the case was whether the client was an appropriate candidate for diversion under the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020 (NSW).
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton provided early advice to the client, obtained a comprehensive psychological report, and worked closely with the treating practitioner to place detailed material before the Court regarding diagnosis, treatment needs, and the connection between the client’s mental health and the offending behaviour.
Tristan Appleton then prepared and advanced a strong application under section 14 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020, submitting that ongoing treatment and supervision in the community was the most appropriate outcome.
After considering the evidence and submissions, the Court granted the application and discharged the client into the care of her treating psychologist.
As a result, all charges were dismissed, no conviction was recorded, and the client was able to continue treatment without the burden of a criminal record.
Why this result matters: Mental health issues can play a significant role in offending behaviour. With early legal advice, proper psychological evidence, and careful preparation, it is often possible to secure outcomes focused on treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery rather than punishment.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court facing multiple serious allegations arising from a dispute with a former partner. Police charged him with common assault, stalking/intimidation, distributing an intimate image without consent, and intentionally choking a person without consent.
These are serious offences under New South Wales law. In particular, choking allegations and image-based abuse offences can carry significant penalties, including imprisonment. The client was unemployed, had no prior criminal history, and was deeply concerned about the prospect of a conviction and likely jail sentence.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton carefully reviewed the police brief of evidence and identified inconsistencies in the complainant’s account together with a lack of independent supporting evidence.
Following detailed preparation and strategic negotiations undertaken by Tristan Appleton prior to the hearing, police agreed to withdraw three of the four charges, including the allegations of choking, assault, and stalking/intimidation.
The client was sentenced only in relation to the charge of distributing an intimate image without consent and received a Community Correction Order (CCO).
As a result of the negotiations and advocacy by Tristan Appleton, the client avoided what was otherwise a likely term of imprisonment.
Why this result matters: Early legal advice, close examination of the evidence, and skilled negotiations can dramatically change the outcome of serious criminal proceedings.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client was charged with common assault after police alleged she assaulted her daughter during a domestic dispute at their home.
A common assault charge can carry serious consequences, including a criminal conviction, penalties imposed by the Court, and reputational damage. In this case, the client was also facing the prospect of an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order being finalised, with concerns about the impact the matter could have on her employment and standing in the community.
Our client was employed full-time and had no prior criminal history.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton carefully reviewed the police brief of evidence and identified inconsistencies between the complainant’s version of events and the accounts of both the client and an independent witness.
Following detailed advice and strategic negotiations conducted by Tristan Appleton with the prosecution prior to the hearing, police agreed to withdraw the common assault charge.
The matter was therefore resolved without the need for a defended hearing. The associated ADVO was made final for a reduced term, and no criminal conviction was recorded.
Why this result matters: Early legal advice, close analysis of the evidence, and strategic negotiation with police can often lead to strong outcomes without the stress and cost of a contested hearing.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client appeared before the Court charged with high range drink driving after police alleged he drove with a blood alcohol reading of more than five times the legal limit.
High range PCA is one of the most serious drink driving offences in New South Wales and carries the real prospect of imprisonment, lengthy licence disqualification, and a criminal conviction. In this matter, the client faced an especially difficult position due to multiple prior convictions for high range drink driving and other serious traffic offences, together with two prior prison sentences for similar offending.
The key issue before the Court was whether the client should be sentenced to full-time imprisonment or whether an alternative community-based sentence could be justified.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client to undertake substantial rehabilitation prior to sentence and worked closely with him to place meaningful material before the Court. Tristan Appleton then prepared detailed written submissions highlighting the client’s rehabilitation, prospects of reform, and the benefit of continued treatment in the community.
As a result of the strategic preparation and advocacy by Tristan Appleton, the Court was persuaded not to impose a jail sentence.
Instead, the client received an Intensive Correction Order (ICO) with community service and treatment conditions. His licence was disqualified for 9 months.
Why this result matters: With a lengthy history of similar offending, imprisonment appeared highly likely. Through early legal advice, genuine rehabilitation, and careful preparation, a full-time custodial sentence was avoided.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client, a full-time truck driver, was charged with driving a heavy vehicle with a missing or defective seatbelt contrary to the Heavy Vehicle National Law after police alleged the seatbelt in his vehicle was defective.
For professional drivers, offences of this kind can carry fines, demerit points, and serious employment consequences. Our client was particularly concerned that the associated demerit points could jeopardise his ability to continue working as a truck driver.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton reviewed the police brief and body worn camera footage, advised the client on the available defences, and prepared the matter for a defended hearing.
A key issue in the case was whether police had adequately tested the seatbelt and whether a seatbelt failing to retract automatically necessarily meant it was legally defective. Tristan Appleton advanced detailed technical legal arguments challenging the prosecution case.
Following the defended hearing, the Court found the client not guilty and dismissed the charge.
As a result, no conviction was recorded and the associated demerit points were not applied, protecting the client’s licence and his employment.
Why this result matters: Many traffic and heavy vehicle matters can be successfully defended where the evidence is properly tested. Early legal advice and strategic preparation can make a critical difference.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client was charged with driving with a middle range prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA), a first offence, after police alleged she drove with a mid-range blood alcohol reading.
Mid range drink driving is a serious traffic offence in New South Wales and can carry penalties including fines, licence disqualification, and a criminal conviction. For this client, the consequences were particularly significant as she is retired, had no prior criminal history, and is the sole carer for her husband whose health is in decline.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton advised the client from an early stage and prepared detailed subjective material for the Court outlining her personal circumstances, prior good character, caring responsibilities, and the hardship that would follow if she lost her licence.
Appearing on the client’s behalf, Tristan Appleton presented strong submissions to the Court emphasising her otherwise unblemished history, genuine remorse, and the critical role she played as sole carer for her husband.
As a result of the careful preparation and advocacy by Tristan Appleton, the Court dealt with the matter by way of a Conditional Release Order without conviction.
Importantly, no conviction was recorded, and the client was able to retain her licence, allowing her to continue caring for her husband and managing essential day-to-day responsibilities.
Why this result matters: This case highlights how early legal advice and well-prepared subjective material can significantly improve the outcome in a drink driving matter, particularly where a client faces genuine hardship.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client, a 54-year-old man with full-time employment and no prior history of violence, was charged with affray after police alleged that he and his neighbour engaged in unlawful violence during an altercation on a residential street.
Affray is a serious allegation under New South Wales law and carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment. A conviction can also have serious consequences for a person’s employment, reputation, and future opportunities. From the outset, our client was concerned about the impact the matter could have on his career and standing in the community.
Lamont Law solicitor Tristan Appleton carefully reviewed the available footage, advised the client on the strength of the prosecution case, and prepared detailed written representations to police. Through early negotiations, he successfully persuaded police to withdraw the more serious affray charge and replace it with a charge of common assault.
When the matter came before the Court, submissions were made regarding the client’s otherwise good character, lack of prior violence, employment history, and the overall circumstances of the incident. The Court ultimately dealt with the matter by way of a Conditional Release Order without conviction.
This outcome meant the client avoided a criminal record and the more serious consequences associated with an affray conviction.
Why this result matters: Early legal intervention, careful analysis of the evidence, and strategic negotiations with police can significantly change the course of a criminal matter and protect a client’s future.
This case result was dependent on its own facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Our client was a 19-year-old male and holder of a provisional P2 licence. He was facing a 3-month demerit point suspension for not displaying his P plates and for exceeding the speed limit by more than 10kmph during a double demerit period.
Needing his licence for work and relying on his income to pay his mortgage, our client engaged Lamont Law and filed an appeal against the suspension to the Local Court. We assisted our client in preparing various subjective materials to present to the Court and subsequently appeared on his behalf. Our criminal defence lawyer, Tristan, made numerous submissions regarding our client’s circumstances and need for a licence. The Court was persuaded of the detrimental impact that a loss of licence would have on our client and decided to uphold the appeal. Our client spent no time off the road and was relieved that he could continue to work and pay his bills.
Our client was a 59-year-old male in breach of his good behaviour licence for exceeding the speed limit by more than 10kmph. Requiring his licence for work in the mines, he had elected to have the matter heard in the Local Court where he was subsequently convicted and fined for the offence.
Facing a six-month licence suspension, our client engaged Lamont Law to appeal the decision to the District Court. We guided our client through the process and appeared on his behalf at Newcastle District Court. Our criminal defence lawyer, Tristan, made compelling submissions and, despite our client’s poor driving record, the Court was persuaded to vary the decision of the Local Court. Our client was neither convicted nor fined for the offence and therefore avoided the licence suspension entirely.
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