Experienced Barrister & Solicitor in Adelaide
Nicholas Vadasz has conducted guilty pleas, jury trials and appeals in the full range of drug matters, including large trafficking or importation matters in amounts such as 12kg of heroin, 40kg of amphetamine and substantial cannabis seizures.
He handles all kinds of dishonesty matters, including frauds where the alleged dishonesty is in the multiple millions.
As well as conducting matters in the Supreme Court and the District Court, Mr Vadasz also regularly appears in the Adelaide Magistrates Court. He has conducted appeals in the High Court of Australia.
Boards and Panels
Nick Vadasz is a current member of the Law Society Criminal Law Advisory Committee, a former renumerated member of the Commonwealth Social Security Appeals Tribunal, and a past member of the South Australian Drug Assessment and Aid Panel.
Press
In a legal system where past decisions often guide current practices, the case involving Angelika Gavare stands out for its challenge to the "no body, no parole" laws. Nick Vadasz, Gavare’s lawyer, is at the centre of this legal battle. The issue at hand is Gavare's petition for a reduced non-parole period, based on her claims of deteriorating health and her alleged cooperation with law enforcement years after her conviction. The prosecution argued that the information provided was of no benefit to the case, only her motive, suggesting her actions are strategically aimed at securing parole eligibility. Vadasz contends that her cooperation alone justifies consideration for a parole adjustment, irrespective of her motivations or lack of demonstrated remorse. He highlighted a Parole Board report suggesting signs of genuine rehabilitation, to support his argument. Vadasz emphasised the importance of Gavare's cooperation in providing closure for the victim’s family, revealing crucial details about the circumstances of the death. This contribution, he argues, is significant and aids in resolving issues for those affected. Justice Sandi McDonald recognised the unique challenges of this case, reflecting on the legal system's need to navigate through previously untested scenarios. She has decided to allow the case to proceed to a full argument, recognising the potential to establish a new legal precedent. This scenario underscores the interplay of legal advocacy and justice, with Nick Vadasz advocating vigorously within emerging legal frameworks.
In a recent ruling that has captured media attention, Anastasia Marshall, accused of the murder of Krystal Marshall in Aldinga Beach, has been granted bail, thanks largely to the advocacy of defence lawyer Nick Vadasz. Justice Tim Stanley of the Supreme Court ruled in favour of granting bail to Ms Marshall after considering the arguments presented by Nick Vadasz, playing a pivotal role in the proceedings by highlighting several key points in her defence. He successfully argued that Ms Marshall was not a flight risk, citing her lack of relevant prior offences and her compliance as a "model prisoner." Nick Vadasz challenged the strength of the prosecution's case, describing it as weak and asserting the innocence of Ms Marshall. He emphasised the absence of concrete evidence that could lead to a conviction and pointed out the serious nature of the alleged offences, which include arson and the destruction of human remains. Speaking outside the court, Nick Vadasz expressed his satisfaction with the decision, noting it as an "appropriate outcome". This case is set to return to court in July, where further proceedings will clarify the future course of this complex legal battle. Nick Vadasz’s role as a defence lawyer has been crucial in navigating the legal landscape and securing a temporary reprieve for his client, showcasing his commitment to legal advocacy and the defence of his client’s rights.
In the case surrounding the tragic death of Krystal Marshall, Nicholas Vadasz's legal strategy for Anastasia Marshall, charged in connection with the death, focuses on the complexities of the case and the living situation of the co-accused, whose details have been suppressed under legal order. Vadasz emphasised to the court that Marshall's proactive approach in seeking legal counsel early on, aware of the potential charges, and her compliance with the legal process over the past four months without any attempt to abscond or reoffend demonstrated she is a low flight risk in application for bail. Through this approach, Vadasz aims to dismantle any concerns about evidence tampering, advocating for Marshall's integrity and the protection of her rights amidst challenging circumstances.
Nick Vadasz successfully has charges dropped against a father charged with affray and assault at a junior girl’s football match.
An early guilty plea and the submission of his background by Defence Lawyer Nick Vadasz saw Andrew Hallcroft receive the equal lowest term imposed on an adult for murder. Laws enacted in 2007 enforced a 20-year minimum non-parole period on an adult guilty of murder, unless ‘special reasons’ Hallcroft, however, was sentenced to a 15-year non-parole period. Justice Trish Kelly, presiding over the case, informed at sentencing that a guilty plea and submission from Nick Vadasz had met the ‘special reasons’ that entitled Hallcroft to a 30 per cent discount on his non-parole period, which she said would have been set at 22 years.
A homeowner in a small country town was left with a bloodied machete in hand after fighting off armed intruders who allegedly tried to steal his weed crop, a court has heard. Lucy Rutherford Follow 3 min read July 11, 2022 - 1:43PM The Messenger
A tradie who relapsed back into drug use after the tragic death of a friend once got stabbed trying to save an elderly lady from being robbed, a court heard. Lucy Rutherford Follow less than 2 min read July 21, 2022 - 8:07AM The Messenger
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