Everyone loves an occasional selfie, especially when capturing a major event or doing something out of the ordinary. Going to court can be both, but packing that selfie stick in your bag could be a major mistake.

A Hong Kong lawyer recently attracted criticism when he posted a photo of himself outside a court room, apparently breaching the local law.

In NSW, taking a photo inside a court building is a criminal offence, carrying a maximum penalty of 12 months imprisonment. Section 9 Court Security Act 2001. This covers photos taken anywhere in “court premises” which includes a forecourt, courtyard, yard, parking area, toilet facility, hall, corridor or other area used in conjunction with the premises or place. The definition is incredibly broad.

So although tempting, that photograph taken outside the court room, or even in the court precinct and foyer, could see you unexpectedly end up back before the court.

Photo by Oleg Magni