9.45am TOPIC 1: How to make representations to the Police and advocating withdrawal of criminal charges –Practical approaches.
Often, there might be a good defence to a charge or the prosecution’s evidence in support of a charge is ambiguous. Other times, one might offer to plead guilty to a less serious charge in return for the police withdrawing the more serious charge. Writing to the police and making representations may result in the withdrawal, or downgrading, of a charge. This session deals with the various matters to address when making written representations.
Presenter: Her Honour Magistrate Karen Stafford
Chair: Fr Yuhanna Azize (Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral, Harris Park), Former Acting Senior Assistant Director, Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, Chaplain & Coordinator, The Maronite Lawyers Guild

10.45am TOPIC 2: Professional Negligence – How Can One Protect Oneself?
Doctors, lawyers, accountants, mortgage brokers, and other ‘professionals’ have certain duties they must undertake in the course of their work. If they fail to meet the standard required and you suffer a loss as a result, you may be entitled to compensation. Find out what duties professionals have and what you can do if you feel wronged.
Presenter: Mr Schon G. Condon, Managing Principal, Condon Associates Group, Parramatta
Chair: Ms Alexandra (Sasha) Shearman, Barrister, Fredrick Jordan Chambers, Sydney

1.40am Morning tea break

12 noon: TOPIC 3: Fines – Serious consequences if you fail to act quickly – what steps are involved? (A Practical workshop)
Over 2.8 Million fines are issued in NSW. What to do when you get a fine/ penalty or infringement notice. Understanding the steps involved in fines administration.
Presenter: Mr Matthew Baker, Senior Technical AdvisorFines, Office of State Revenue, Department of Finance, Services and Innovation
Chair: His Hon Magistrate Theo Tsavdaridis