COMMUNITY CORRECTION ORDERS (CCOS) IN NSW
A Community Correction Order (CCO) is a non‑custodial sentencing option under the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 (NSW). It enables courts to enforce community-based conditions rather than imprisonment, striking a balance between accountability, rehabilitation, and public safety.
Under Section 8(1) of the Act, a court may impose a CCO only after a conviction has been recorded. While the link to AustLII’s Section 8 failed to load, this provision is clearly outlined in the primary legislation. The maximum duration of a CCO is three years.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE IMPOSED?
CCOs include both mandatory and discretionary conditions. Basic conditions typically require:
- The offender to not commit further offences
- The offender to attend court if required
Additional conditions may include:
- Curfews (up to 12 hours per day)
- Community service (up to 500 hours)
- Treatment or rehabilitation programs
- Non-association or place restrictions
- Supervised by Community Corrections
Punitive measures such as home detention or electronic monitoring are expressly excluded under this sentencing option.
WHEN IS A CCO APPROPRIATE?
CCOs are suitable when:
- The offence is too serious for a Conditional Release Order (CRO) but not severe enough for imprisonment.
- A conviction must have occurred, as CCOs cannot be applied otherwise.
- The court considers sentencing objectives—including rehabilitation, deterrence, punishment, and community protection, as outlined in Section 3A of the Act.
WHY CHOOSE CRIMINAL LAWYERS GROUP?
At Criminal Lawyers Group, we’re experts in securing Community Correction Orders that avoid custody, even in complex cases. Our approach combines:
- Robust rehabilitation evidence and program plans
- Specialist psychological assessments
- Strong character references and legal submissions
We strive to keep clients in the community—working, in treatment, and part of supportive networks—rather than behind bars.
CASE STUDY: AVOIDING JAIL ON SERIOUS ASSAULT CHARGE
Our client, convicted of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, faced serious consequences following a violent incident in western Sydney. Despite prosecution calls for imprisonment, we prepared a compelling case with:
- Psychological assessments and ongoing counselling evidence
- Testimonials attesting to character and remorse
- A feasible rehabilitation roadmap
The court imposed a Community Correction Order with supervision and a curfew, no jail time—allowing our client to remain in employment and focused on recovery under court oversight.
CONTACT US
Facing charges and worried about going to jail? A Community Correction Order might offer a way to stay in the community—if you have expert legal guidance.
📞 Call Criminal Lawyers Group on (02) 8815 8177
📧 Email: info@criminallawyersgroup.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.criminallawyersgroup.com.au
Our team is available 24/7 with urgent legal advice. We’ll support you through the process and secure the best outcome possible.
Criminal Lawyers Group – Protecting your freedom. Fighting for your future.