This is a case study on using a false document to obtain court orders, arising from our client allegedly submitting a false document to a Court.
What is alleged to have occurred
Our client was charged with using a false document to obtain court orders, which is an offence arising under section 83A of the Crimes Act. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.
Police alleged that our client submitted a false document to a Court in order to obtain Court orders, which were ultimately made on the basis of the false document.
Our client pleaded guilty to the charge.
In preparing for the plea hearing, we took detailed instructions from our client about the circumstances they were experiencing prior to and at the time of the offending. Our objective was to demonstrate to the Court that the offending occurred in extenuating circumstances and was entirely out of character for our client.
We also obtained written references from our client’s close family and friends, as well as supporting material from our client’s counsellor. This material assisted in providing the Court with a better understanding of our client’s personal circumstances, character and the circumstances surrounding the offending.
A significant consideration was the potential impact that a criminal conviction could have on our client’s future. Submissions were prepared addressing the consequences a conviction could have on our client’s future employment opportunities and ability to travel.
What happened at court
The plea hearing proceeded in the Magistrates’ Court, with counsel briefed to appear on our client’s behalf.
After the summary of the offending was read, submissions were made on behalf of our client addressing the nature and circumstances of the offending, our client’s personal circumstances and character, and the relevant legal principles.
A particular focus of the submissions was persuading the Magistrate that no conviction should be recorded. Submissions were made about the circumstances in which the offending occurred, the fact that it was out of character for our client, and the potential impact that a criminal conviction could have on our client’s future employment and ability to travel.
What was the result of the case of using a false document to obtain court orders?
Having heard the submissions advanced on behalf of our client, the Magistrate ultimately agreed that no conviction should be recorded.
Our client was sentenced to an adjourned undertaking without conviction, requiring them to be of good behaviour and to make a contribution to the Court Fund.
This was an exceptional outcome in the circumstances, with our client avoiding a criminal record despite pleading guilty to using a false document to obtain court orders, an offence carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.
Maya George
Maya is based in our Melbourne office and has experience in a wide range of criminal matters. Formerly a Judge's associate in the Criminal Division of the County Court, she has practised exclusively in criminal defence and believes every person accused of wrongdoing deserves strong and capable representation.Maya appears regularly in Court on behalf of clients charged with summary and indictable offences. In preparing each matter, Maya prioritises diligence, a non-judgmental approach, and providing clear and honest advice to her clients.
View Maya George's profile.
DISCLAIMER: This is a real case study of an actual case from our files. Details pertaining to the client have been changed to protect their privacy. The sentence imposed and the charge have not been altered. These case studies are published to demonstrate real outcomes and give an indication of possible tariffs in Court. We do not guarantee a similar case on these charges will get the same result. Please note that we post results at our discretion, therefore while many case studies are average results, others are notable for their exceptional outcomes. PUBLISHED 10/08/2026
