Anastasia Qvist is an outstanding lawyer. My criminal law situation (family violence order) was difficult, complex and Ana's diligence saved me as I was going through the most difficult period of my life. Ana is down to earth, commonsense and she even kept our costs to a minimum. She is a skilled litigator and knows the ins and outs of the ACT Magistrates Court. She dealt skillfully with the DPP and is an excellent negotiator. You will get a fair representation and she genuinely cares about her clients. She has my complete recommendation. The lady goes to bat for her clients.

- Client

I would strongly recommend Anastasia to anyone who is seeking legal representation. As a first-time offender who was charged with a Level 2 Drink Driving offence, she walked me through every step of the matter and was very upfront and clear on all aspects of my case. She was always accessible when I needed advice. Her approach and advice were excellent. Under her representation, I received the best possible outcome and managed to avoid a criminal conviction. She was a pleasure to deal with throughout the whole matter.

- Client

Anastasia Qvist was very professional and helpful in every step of my matter. I got a very good outcome and I can’t thank you enough for your hard work and the Armstrong Legal team in Canberra. I would highly recommend her!!!

- Client

Throughout Angela has been the consummate professional. She maintained a calm, yet strong demeanour remained informative and completely open in her communication and took complete ownership of the situation. We felt confident we finally had an advocate to steer us out of the nightmare we were in, and she did so with great respect and sincerity. I cannot speak more highly of Angela. She has literally rescued our family from what looked very much like a hopeless future.

- Client

Words can’t describe how grateful I am to Trudie Cameron being my solicitor and to Andrew Tiedt presenting my case in the court. They both have been very supportive and amazingly professional and effective. I’ve got an absolutely fantastic outcome I couldn’t even dream about.

- Client

Soon after meeting Andrew I knew he was the solicitor I wanted to handle my matter. He immediately sprang into action which brought me stability and hope during a tumultuous time in my life. Andrew was never afraid to give me straight answers to my tough questions which is a true mark of integrity. He is clearly at ease in the court environment and I believe his calm and measured demeanour went a long way to helping me secure the best result from my day in court. I would certainly recommend you approach Andrew if you need assistance.

- Client

"Andrew Tiedt was very professional and considerate to personal circumstances and gave sound advice that resulted in the best outcome possible. Highly recommended."

This article was written by Michelle Makela - Legal Practice Director

Michelle has over 15 years experience in the legal industry, working across commercial litigation, criminal law, family law and estate planning. Michelle has been involved in all practice areas of the firm and in her personal practice has had experience in litigation at all levels (state and federal industrial tribunals, the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, Federal...

Urinate in Public Place

Urinating in a public place is an offence under the Summary Offences Act 2005. It is a fine only offence but is still often heard and determined in court.

Despite it’s fairly trivial nature, it is important to remember that this offence can result in a conviction and criminal record.

The offence of urinating in a public place is contained under section 7 of the Act which simply states:

A person must not urinate in a public place.

There are aggravated factors depending on the location of the offence which determine the maximum penalty.

if the person urinates within licensed premises, or in the vicinity of licensed premises — 4 penalty units; or
otherwise — 2 penalty units.

There is also a provision contained in the section that “evidence that liquid was seen to be discharged from the vicinity of a person’s pelvic area” is enough evidence that the person was urinating.

What Actions Might Constitute Urinating in a Public Place?

Standing beside a tree in a local park urinating.
Urinating beside a toilet block outside a sports ground because the toilets are locked.
Pouring iced tea from a bottle held near your pelvis with police observing you from behind.

What the Police Must Prove

To convict you of urinating in a public place, the prosecution must prove each of the following matters beyond a reasonable doubt:

that you were the person urinating;
you were in a public place;
you were within a licensed premises or in the vicinity of a licensed premises (aggravated situation).

Possible Defences to Urinating in a Public Place

Possible defences to a charge include:

disputing that you were the person who urinated;
disputing that the location was a public place;
proving that you had no control over urinating (incontinence etc).

Which Court Will Hear Your Matter?

If not dealt with by way of Infringement Notice, this matter is heard and determined in the Magistrates Court.

If you require legal advice or representation in any legal matter, please contact Armstrong Legal.

WHERE TO NEXT?

If you suspect that you may be under investigation, or if you have been charged with an offence, it is vital to get competent legal advice as early as possible. Our lawyers are highly specialised in criminal law and will be able to guide you through the process while dealing with the various authorities related to your matter.

WHY CHOOSE ARMSTRONG LEGAL?

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