Gunning Young provides representation for clients charged with a range of sexual offences in Western Australia. We advise clients throughout every stage of the process, including police investigations, interviews, bail applications, trials, sentencing and appeals.

Allegations of this nature are often highly stressful and can have immediate consequences for reputation, employment, family relationships and liberty. Our approach is to provide clear advice, careful preparation of the defence, and strong representation in court.

If you have been contacted by police or charged with a sexual offence, we recommend obtaining legal advice promptly.

Understanding Sexual Offence Charges

Sexual offence matters are among the most serious charges dealt with by the courts. Many offences carry significant maximum penalties, and some allegations may proceed in the District Court or Supreme Court.

These matters often involve disputes about consent, identity, communications between parties, forensic evidence, timing of complaint, credibility, and surrounding circumstances.

Some cases arise from recent complaints. Others involve historical allegations said to have occurred many years earlier.

Why Early Legal Advice Is Important

Early advice can be critical before any interview or formal charge. What is said to police, messages sent to complainants, or attempts to “clear things up” can later become evidence.

We advise clients regarding:

• • Police requests for interview;
  • Search warrants and seizure of devices;
  • Bail applications and conditions;
  • No-contact restrictions;
  • Disclosure of evidence; and
  • Strategy before charge or after charge.

Common Defence Issues

Every case depends on its own facts. Possible issues may include:

• • Consent;
  • Identification;
  • Reliability or inconsistency of accounts;
  • Forensic evidence disputes; and
  • Insufficient proof beyond reasonable doubt.

We carefully examine statements, phone records, CCTV, social media, forensic material, medical evidence and all surrounding circumstances.

Historical Allegations

Some matters concern allegations made long after the alleged event. Delay can create important evidentiary issues, including missing records, unavailable witnesses, faded memory and fairness concerns.

These cases require careful and experienced preparation.

Bail and Interim Restrictions

A sexual offence allegation may result in immediate custody, strict bail conditions, reporting obligations, no-contact orders or restrictions regarding children, internet use or residence.

We act urgently in bail matters and applications to vary conditions where appropriate.

Sentencing Considerations

If a plea of guilty is appropriate, preparation remains vital. Relevant matters may include:

• • Early plea of guilty;
  • Prior record or lack of prior record;
  • Rehabilitation prospects;
  • Counselling or treatment undertaken;
  • Insight and remorse;
  • Personal circumstances; and
  • Objective seriousness of the offending.

We prepare focused submissions aimed at achieving the best possible outcome.

Sex Offender Registration and Ongoing Consequences

Certain convictions may trigger reporting obligations under Western Australian law. Depending on the charge and outcome, consequences may extend beyond sentence and can affect travel, employment, licences and future opportunities.

Obtaining advice early can be important in understanding these risks.

Confidential Representation

We understand allegations of this nature are sensitive and personal. Clients are treated with discretion, respect and practical guidance throughout the process.

Speak With Our Team

If you have been accused of a sexual offence, contacted by police, or charged before court, contact Gunning Young for confidential legal advice as early as possible.