Media/News
Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally is a highly regarded Melbourne criminal law firm regularly featured in Australian media for its expertise in criminal defence and high-profile criminal cases . Explore the latest news, legal commentary, and media coverage involving our criminal lawyers and landmark cases.
Victorian government defends bail laws as opposition criticises new judicial guidance
Sam Norton, Partner at Stary Norton Halphen, discusses on ABC Radio Melbourne the importance of judicial discretion and independence in the justice system, emphasising that community safety should not be the sole factor in achieving just outcomes.
What life is like after jury duty
Criminal lawyer Sam Norton notes that many individuals serving on juries find the 'enormous responsibility' to be quite traumatic.
Sam Norton on 3AW with Tom Elliot debating Victoria's proposed new bail laws
Our partner Sam Norton joined Tom Elliott on 3AW’s morning show to discuss Labor’s proposed new bail laws. He offered expert legal insights on the implications of these reforms for the justice system. If you missed it, be sure to catch Sam’s take on this crucial issue.
"Doomed": how a 13-year-old autistic boy was investigated by the AFP
A children's court magistrate in Victoria has strongly criticised the Australian Federal Police for their 2021 investigations into a child, claiming that their actions aimed to radicalise the child for evidence-gathering and ultimately hindered rehabilitation efforts.
Podcast: Rob Stary joins a panel of guests to discuss Australia and the rise of terrorism
Joining a panel of guests on the ABC Podcast, Rob Stary discusses the September 11 attacks in the United States and how this ultimately changed the way Western countries perceive the threat of terrorism.
High Court to decide Akon Guode infanticide, murder sentence anomaly
High Court deliberates on sentencing a Melbourne woman who drowned three of her children in a car. Experts discuss the complexities of punishing crimes committed simultaneously and in contrast. Distressing themes noted. Contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 for support.
The politics of "home-grown terror" in Australia
Defence lawyer, Rob Stary discusses the political context of latest anti-terror raids, past cases based on entrapment and dubious evidence, and the danger of new legislative norms creeping into the realm of industrial relations and protest policing.
Plea bargains: Putting in a good word to the judge
Criminal lawyer Sam Norton speaks on a recent decision of the High Court now makes it crystal clear that prosecutors can never suggest a specific prison term.