Not Legal Representation,
Something Better.

We offer something different from traditional legal services. Our team consists of former police officers with over 20 years of experience in NSW traffic enforcement. This unique perspective gives you insider knowledge on how the system actually works.

Trent Costello

Trent Costello is the owner and founder of Legal Insight Australia, a trusted consultancy service that provides expert guidance on traffic law and enforcement matters.

Over Two Decades Experience

With over two decades of experience, Trent brings an unparalleled level of insight into the complexities of traffic-related legal issues. His career within the New South Wales Police Force spanned 21 years with 14 years performing Highway Patrol (HWP) duties, during which he gained a deep understanding of traffic enforcement practices from both sides of the law.

Throughout his time in law enforcement, Trent was responsible for charging and issuing countless infringement notices to individuals, many of whom sought his guidance on what to do next, particularly when it came to determining whether legal representation was necessary.

Supporting Confused and Frustrated People

He witnessed firsthand the confusion and frustration people felt when trying to navigate the legal system, especially when faced with expensive legal fees and, at times, opportunistic solicitors taking advantage of their situation. Trent’s motivation is purley to educate and provide guidance without taking advantage of their situation with over inflated fees.

It was this growing concern that led Trent to establish Legal Insight Australia. Determined to offer a more transparent and accessible approach to what options are available, Trent uses his unique skill set and inside knowledge of traffic enforcement to help individuals understand their options without the burden of high legal costs.

At Legal Insight Australia, Trent is committed to empowering his clients with the information they need to make informed decisions, providing them with honest, expert advice and support every step of the way.

With his extensive experience, firsthand knowledge of traffic law, and a genuine desire to assist people, Trent Costello is a trusted guide for anyone navigating the complexities of traffic-related legal challenges. He provides honest advice and guidance to empower the individual with their options when the time comes to seek legal advice from a solicitor or lawyer.

Michael Stewart

Leveraging 25 Years Experience to Navigate Traffic Infringements and Charges with Legal Insight Australia.

Michael Stewart, a former Highway Patrol Sergeant with the New South Wales Police Force, now plays a crucial role at Legal Insight Australia, where his wealth of traffic enforcement experience is an invaluable asset for individuals navigating the often-confusing world of traffic infringements and charges. With decades of on-the-ground experience in traffic law enforcement, Michael provides unique insight and guidance to those who find themselves facing fines, penalties, or legal charges related to road traffic offences. His extensive background as a Highway Patrol Sergeant means that Michael has seen every side of traffic enforcement—from investigating accidents to issuing fines and educating the public on safe driving. This deep knowledge of how the system works from both the enforcement and legal perspectives allows him to help individuals facing traffic offences make informed decisions and explore all available options.

A Career Rooted in Traffic Enforcement

During his time as a Highway Patrol Sergeant, Michael was responsible for enforcing traffic laws, investigating crashes, and managing various operations to reduce road fatalities and injuries. His firsthand experience with issuing traffic infringements, handling challenging situations on the road, and enforcing strict traffic laws has given him an insider’s understanding of the entire process.

From his time with the NSW Police Force, Michael has learned how enforcement officers approach traffic violations and how the legal system processes infringements. This allows him to provide tailored, effective advice to clients facing fines or legal charges, empowering them to understand the next steps and weigh their options.

Helping Clients Navigate Traffic Infringements and Charges

For many individuals, receiving an infringement notice or being charged with a traffic-related offense can be overwhelming and stressful. It’s common for people to feel uncertain about how to proceed, whether to challenge the fine, or how to handle a more serious charge. With his extensive experience, Michael offers critical guidance that helps individuals understand their rights and navigate the options available to them.

Understanding the Legal Process

One of the key benefits of having Michael’s expertise at Legal Insight Australia is his ability to demystify the legal process for those facing traffic offenses. Michael helps clients understand the nature of their charges and what consequences they might face if the matter proceeds to court. This can involve explaining:

The types of traffic offenses

Michael can break down the specifics of the charge, whether it’s speeding, running a red light, driving under the influence (DUI), or another offense.

  • The legal framework: He explains the potential penalties and how they might vary depending on the severity of the offense, whether it’s a fine, points on a license, or a court appearance.
  • The implications for their driving record: Michael also helps clients understand how certain convictions or infringements can affect their driver’s license status, including whether they could face suspension or cancellation.
 

Offering Strategic Options

Michael’s deep understanding of traffic offences and enforcement allows him to offer practical, personalised advice on how to approach a traffic infringement or charge. There are several routes a person can take when faced with an infringement notice or charge, and Michael’s experience can help clients make informed decisions about how to proceed.

  • Challenge the Infringement: He helps clients understand when it may be worth contesting a fine or charge.
  • Also providing insight into whether there are valid grounds for appealing the infringement, such as issues with the evidence or procedural errors made by authorities.
  • Negotiating Outcomes in cases where challenging the charge may not be the best option, he can help negotiate alternative outcomes. This may involve applying for a reduction in penalties, negotiating to avoid demerit points, or seeking a more lenient penalty in exchange for demonstrating remorse or completing driver safety courses.
  • Traffic Offense Mitigation with advice can help clients reduce the impact of a charge. Whether it’s through requesting a “section 10” dismissal (a special provision in NSW law where an offense can be dismissed without a conviction) or helping a client understand the possibility of a good behaviour bond, his guidance ensures that every option is explored to protect the individual’s driving record and future.
  • Guiding through Court Appearances for those who must appear in court, Michael provides invaluable assistance by preparing clients for what to expect. He can guide them through the legal process, advise them on the best approach to take in court, and even help them find legal representation if necessary.

Traffic Knowledge with a Personal Touch

What sets Michael apart is not just his experience but his genuine desire to help individuals make the best decisions when facing traffic-related legal challenges. Having worked in the field, he knows how overwhelming it can be for someone unfamiliar with traffic laws and legal procedures. His ability to break down complex legal language into clear, understandable terms ensures that his clients are well-informed and empowered to make decisions that align with their best interests.

At Legal Insight Australia, Michael’s role isn’t just about offering guidance, it’s about helping people regain control over a situation that could otherwise feel like a daunting uphill battle. He draws from his years of experience in highway patrol to provide a balanced perspective, ensuring clients fully understand their rights, responsibilities, and the best course of action to take.

A Trusted Resource for Traffic Infringement Support

Through his work at Legal Insight Australia, Michael continues to make a significant impact, offering invaluable support to individuals who have received traffic infringement notices or been charged with offenses. His firsthand knowledge of traffic laws and enforcement, coupled with his understanding of the legal system, positions him as a trusted resource for anyone needing guidance on their next steps.