Qld lawyer faces multiple child abuse and rape charges

Aditum Lawyers principal solicitor and founder Carlyon James Ward is set to face court on multiple charges relating to alleged child abuse offences, as reported by the Gold Coast Bulletin.

The charges he faces are alleged to relate to incidents dating back more than a decade.

On his firm’s website, Ward is described as a “highly experienced commercial lawyer and strategic advisor,” with more than 10 years of experience advising on commercial matters.

The national firm owner and principal solicitor has been charged with a total of 10 counts.

These include four counts of indecent treatment of a child under 16, two counts of indecent treatment of a child under 16 (expose), one count of common assault, and three counts of rape.

The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 2010 and 2011, although specific dates have not been identified.

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The publication reported that the criminal proceedings against Ward are progressing slowly through the courts, “with a number of people and institutions proposed to provide material to the court”.

This matter most recently came before the Southport District Court on 3 March, for a pre-trial hearing focused on evidentiary issues, including the proposed use of subpoenas.

During the hearing, the court heard 11 draft subpoenas, with counsel objecting to only some of the proposed requests.

The court ultimately adjourned the matter to a second-stage hearing, scheduled for 19 May, where these issues are expected to be further examined.

Ward has not entered a plea, and a trial date has yet to be set.

This is not the first time the commercial firm has found itself in hot water this month, having already faced the Fair Work Commission after backtracking on the dismissal of a senior associate following a dispute over commission payments.

The termination was later overturned, with Ward reportedly messaging the employee that “the alpha has to withstand challenges from the pack”.

For support, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028, Lifeline 13 11 14, and Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.