SA lawyers oppose minimum sentences LAWYERS have opposed moves to introduce mandatory minimum sentences for assaults and other attacks on police in South Australia. Family First MP Robert Brokenshire plans to introduce the legislation to parliament which calls for penalties ranging from six months in jail for recklessly causing serious harm to a police officer to at least four years for attempted murder. But the Law Society of South Australia says mandatory minimums take away judicial discretion and are completely unnecessary. "The independence of the courts is a vital component of a fair, reasoned, civilised society," law society president John White said. Mandatory sentencing compromises that independence and opens the door for unjust and discriminatory outcomes. Mr White says laws relating to the assault of police officers already exist and the penalties are higher. "Current laws already ensure those found guilty of assaulting police receive tough penalties to match the seriousness of their crime," he said. Mr Brokenshire says police remain concerned over the lack of respect for officers and a rise in serious assaults on police. He has urged the state government to either support the Family First bill or introduce its own.