Investigative Hearings/Inquests
There are a number of bodies that have been created that compel an individual to attend and give evidence.
The Crime and Corruption Commission and the Australia Crime Commission have extensive powers requiring individuals to attend coercive hearings to give evidence in relation to serious crime. The long established right to silence does not apply at these hearings, however, an individual does have a right for a lawyer to be present to ensure their rights are not abrogated.
Should you or someone close to you be summonsed to appear at a coercive hearing we recommend that you contact a lawyer immediately to obtain appropriate legal advice.