How long can a person be detained for questioning in New South Wales without being charged?

In New South Wales, the law provides specific guidelines regarding the duration a person can be detained for questioning without being charged, especially concerning serious offenses. The correct timeframe is indeed four hours, which is standard for most cases, followed by the allowance of an additional eight hours if the crime in question is categorized as more serious. This structured approach is designed to balance the need for effective police investigation while also upholding individual rights and ensuring that detention is not unnecessarily prolonged.

By establishing this two-tiered system of detention time, the legislation acknowledges the differing severity of offenses and the necessity of longer questioning periods for complex or serious crimes, such as those involving violence or significant harm to individuals. The provisions also ensure that individuals are not held indefinitely without charges, promoting accountability within law enforcement practices and safeguarding civil liberties.