Attorney General for Western Australia v Lashansky

The case of Attorney General for Western Australia versus Lashansky was heard in the Supreme Court of Western Australia. The primary dispute centred on the issue of service of legal documents, specifically the Attorney General's application for substituted service due to the difficulties in personally serving Lashansky. The Attorney General argued that personal service was impracticable and sought the court's permission to serve the documents via alternative means.

The legal issues before the court revolved around whether it was indeed impracticable to effect personal service on Lashansky and, if so, which method of substituted service would be appropriate. The court had to consider the relevant statutory provisions and common law principles that govern service of legal documents, particularly when personal service cannot be achieved.

In delivering the judgment, the court found that the Attorney General had demonstrated that personal service was impracticable. The court considered the evidence presented regarding the extensive efforts made to locate Lashansky, including inquiries with known associates and checking public records. Based on this evidence, the court concluded that alternative means of service were necessary. The court then authorised the service of documents via publication in a newspaper, which was deemed the most appropriate method given the circumstances. The orders for substituted service were subsequently made in favour of the Attorney General.