Paul Burkinshaw
Geraldton,WA
Summary
As an experienced Police Sergeant with a strong foundation in legal processes, advocacy, and the practical application of criminal law. Over several years in frontline policing, detective and prosecutorial roles, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of the justice system, including criminal procedure, evidence handling, and courtroom advocacy. I have managed complex investigations, supported vulnerable victims, and engaged with key stakeholders across the legal and community sectors. Having recently completed a Bachelor of Policing (Investigations), I am now focused on furthering my legal expertise through formal study, with the aim of transitioning into the legal profession and contributing meaningfully to justice and reform, particularly in areas involving Criminal law and vulnerable communities.
I am a law enforcement professional with a proven track record in legal proceedings and case management. Skilled in evidence evaluation, legal research, and courtroom presentation. Strong focus on team collaboration and adaptability to changing needs ensures reliability and goal achievement. Known for clear communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Police Prosecutor
Western Australia Police Force
01.2019 - Current
- Represent the WA Police Force in Magistrates and Children's Court proceedings, including bail applications, sentencing, and contested trial hearings.
- Review briefs of evidence for legal sufficiency, admissibility, and procedural fairness prior to prosecution.
- Provide legal advice to investigating officers regarding charges, statutory interpretation, and court procedures.
- Engage in case conferencing with defence counsel to negotiate outcomes in accordance with prosecutorial guidelines.
- Advocate in matters involving family violence, traffic offences, assaults, and other criminal charges.
- Maintain strict adherence to professional conduct obligations, upholding the principles of fairness, integrity, and justice.
- Utilise trauma-informed knowledge and victim-focused practices in court and police briefings, particularly in sensitive matters involving children and vulnerable witnesses.
- Collaborate with Magistrates, legal practitioners, and support services to ensure the proper administration of justice.
- Developed strong relationships with witnesses, gaining trust and obtaining vital testimonies during trials.
- Contributed to community safety by prosecuting criminal offenders diligently and effectively.
- Presented compelling arguments in court, resulting in favourable outcomes for the prosecution.
- Mentored junior prosecutors, sharing knowledge and expertise to improve their skill set.
- Negotiated plea agreements with defence, achieving timely resolutions while upholding justice standards.
Police Detective
Western Australia Police Force
01.2013 - 01.2019
- Engaged in community policing, crime prevention, and victim support.
- Investigated and responded to critical incidents, often involving trauma and conflict resolution.
- Preparation and submission of evidence briefs for prosecution, including witness statements, disclosures, and case summaries.
- Applied principles of criminal law, evidence gathering, and statutory interpretation to policing.
- Participating in or executing search warrants.
- Focusing on HP (High Priority) files for family violence offenders.
- Conducting extra training provided by WA Police Force
- Trauma-Informed Response Training (Face-to-Face)
- Family Violence Level 3 – First Responder (Online)
- Family Violence Level 5A – Advance Training (Online)
- Child Abuse – Trauma-Informed Practice (Online)
- National Domestic Violence Order Scheme (Online)
- Volume court sittings (Video-, Remand-, First Appearance-, Traffic Courts)
- Bail oppositions, Legal arguments, sentencing.
- Trial hearings, including preparation of briefs, evidence presentation and legal arguments.
- Brief reviews and brief allocations.
- Case law research.
- Solved complex criminal cases by conducting thorough investigations and utilizing critical thinking skills.
Police Officer
Western Austrailian Police Force
05.2007 - 01.2013
- Enhanced public safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
- Patrolled assigned areas to check homes, businesses, and public roads for signs of disturbance.
- Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence, and questioned witnesses.
- Handled domestic disputes tactfully, de-escalating tensions while providing appropriate support to affected individuals.
- Effectively diffused potentially dangerous situations through verbal negotiation techniques before escalating force was necessary.
- Reduced criminal activity in assigned areas through proactive policing and community engagement.
- Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses, and damage to property.
- Mentored junior officers on the importance of ethical behaviour, accountability, and professionalism in their role as public servants.
Police Officer
West Yorkshire Police Force
01.2002 - 04.2007
- Displayed sound judgment under pressure when making critical decisions that impact public safety during emergency situations.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices, maintaining a high level of expertise within the field of law enforcement.
- Utilised excellent communication skills when interacting with diverse populations, fostering trust between law enforcement and the community members they serve.
- Answered emergency calls for help from members of the public and business owners.
- Gave evidence in court, contributing to successful prosecutions of offenders.
- Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
- Enforced traffic laws diligently, promoting road safety and reducing accident rates.
- Maintained accurate case records and documentation, ensuring proper evidence handling and information sharing among relevant parties.
- Conducted preliminary investigations at scenes of major crimes.
- Managed crowd control during events, ensuring public safety while minimizing disruptions to attendees or surrounding communities.
- Apprehended offenders and conducted interviews.
Education
Bachelor of Policing (Investigations) - Criminal Justice
Charles Sturt University
Sydney, Australia09-2024
Police Prosecutors Course - Law
Western Australian Police Force
Perth 01-2019
Advanced Diploma Public Safety (Investigations) - Policing
Western Australia Police Force
Perth, WA01-2013
Skills
- Legal Reasoning and Procedural Knowledge
- Through my policing and prosecutorial roles, I have developed a practical understanding of legal frameworks, evidentiary requirements, and procedural fairness I regularly interpret and apply legislation in real-time, preparing briefs of evidence and engaging with court processes
- Advanced Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Years of frontline experience have refined my ability to communicate effectively with victims, offenders, legal professionals, and community stakeholders critical to advocacy, negotiation, and courtroom presentation
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving in Legal Contexts
- My work in policing and prosecution has required rapid assessment of complex legal situations, balancing public interest, legislative obligations, and procedural integrity
- Adaptability and Resilience Under Pressure
- Whether responding to high-risk incidents, managing court schedules, or handling complex family violence cases, I remain composed and effective in high-stress environments
- Teamwork and Cross-Agency Collaboration
- Experienced in working across departments and agencies, including CPFS, legal services, and victim support units, to ensure coordinated and lawful outcomes
- Attention to Detail and Investigative Accuracy
- Skilled in evidence gathering, report writing, and brief preparation with a high standard of accuracy – critical for ensuring procedural fairness and supporting prosecutorial decisions
- Ethical Practice and Integrity
- Committed to upholding justice and ethical standards, consistently demonstrating professionalism, impartiality, and respect for procedural law and human rights
- Patience and empathy
- Integrity and honesty
Timeline
Police Prosecutor
Western Australia Police Force
01.2019 - Current
Police Detective
Western Australia Police Force
01.2013 - 01.2019
Police Officer
Western Austrailian Police Force
05.2007 - 01.2013
Police Officer
West Yorkshire Police Force
01.2002 - 04.2007
Bachelor of Policing (Investigations) - Criminal Justice
Charles Sturt University
Police Prosecutors Course - Law
Western Australian Police Force
Advanced Diploma Public Safety (Investigations) - Policing
Western Australia Police Force
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