O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, Sydney

04/06/2026

🎙️ Peter on ABC: When police misconduct goes unchecked, who fights back?

This week, Peter O'Brien appeared on ABC Four Corners, Australia's leading investigative journalism program. He spoke on the systemic failures in NSW police accountability and the urgent need for reform.

Peter is representing Samantha Testalamuta, who was allegedly assaulted by NSW Police officers responding to a noise complaint at her home. Her case is one of hundreds our firm has pursued against police for alleged misconduct and excessive force.

📺 Watch the full Four Corners episode Brutal Force now at abc.net.au

03/06/2026

Nothing means more to us than feedback like this 🌟

Thank you for your kind words about Anavi and our team. We strive to be compassionate and supportive throughout every step of the process, and it's wonderful to hear that came through 💙

30/05/2026

A blanket abolition of good character as a mitigating factor across every criminal offence in NSW goes further than the problem requires. The defendants who will feel this most are young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, Aboriginal defendants, and first-time offenders whose circumstances the court should still be able to see.

Reform that targets serious sexual offences and offences against children? I'd support it. A sentencing formula that applies to every matter in every NSW court? That's not justice reform.

Peter is proud to be part of the founding collection for The Brief, a platform giving legal practitioners the space to write with the precision and context that complex law reform deserves.

Read the full piece, published in The Brief's Founding Collection, on thebrieflaw.com.au

29/05/2026

A Protest Sentencing bill has been introduced in the NSW Parliament that, if passed, would prohibit courts from imposing a custodial sentence for any non-violent act committed in the course of a demonstration, protest, procession, or assembly.

Drop your opinion on the Bill in the comments below 👇🏾

A NSW bill introduced in 2025 would remove prison as a sentencing option for non-violent protest conduct. We explain what the protest sentencing bill does.

29/05/2026

Families deserve more than promises.

Visit cancellations at MRRC continue to fracture the connections that matter most, despite repeated assurances from Corrective Services NSW that reforms were underway.

We stand with advocates calling for accountability and real action. The gap between policy and practice is not a minor administrative issue, it's a human one.

If you've been affected by prison visit cancellations, or have an opinion on the issue, let us know in the comments👇

26/05/2026

Our client was cleared of historic allegations with expert support

When a 30-year-old complaint landed on this client's doorstep, they knew the truth but couldn't prove it. That's where we came in.

This is exactly what we do. If you're facing allegations that don't reflect who you are, we can do the same for you. Get in touch today for a free consultation.

📞 (02) 9261 4281
📧 [email protected]

18/05/2026

He asked police to help his friend get a phone back. Minutes later, he was on the ground in handcuffs, a black eye and lacerations to his face. No charges were ever laid.

NSW Police issued a move-on direction, then arrested him before he had any chance to comply. That's not lawful. We took on the State of New South Wales, and won.

If you've been unlawfully arrested by NSW Police, you may be entitled to compensation. Read the full case study on our website.

15/05/2026

⭐ "They were respectful, kind and understanding."

Thank you to our clients who take the time to leave us such kind reviews!

We're proud to deliver results with respect, understanding, and full attention to every matter.

15/05/2026

🚗🍷 Charged with a first-time drink driving offence in NSW?

One mistake does not have to define your future.

Many people don’t realise that depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to avoid a criminal conviction altogether. The key is understanding your rights and acting early ⚖️

In this infographic, we break down:

✔️ NSW drink driving ranges
✔️ Potential fines & licence disqualifications
✔️ What Section 10 means
✔️ The alcohol interlock program
✔️ What to do in the first 48 hours after being charged

The decisions you make now can impact your licence, career, travel, and future opportunities.

📞 Need urgent legal advice?
O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors offers free initial consultations and experienced representation across NSW.

☎️ 02 9261 4281
📍 Sydney, NSW

09/05/2026

🚨 Arrested or refused bail in NSW? Understanding your rights could make all the difference.

Our latest infographic breaks down:

⚖️ How bail applications work in NSW
💻 The new Bail Division & virtual hearings
📋 What courts consider before granting bail
🔒 Common bail conditions
📌 Real-world bail scenarios and legal options

Bail laws in NSW have changed significantly, and expert legal advice matters more than ever.

At O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors, our experienced criminal defence team acts urgently to protect your rights and maximise your chances of release.

📞 02 9261 4281
📍 Sydney, NSW
🔗 Free initial consultation