About

We are a leading Queensland criminal law and employment law firm.

Led by directors Glen Cranny, Craig Pratt, Callan Lloyd, Melanie Morris, and Patrick Quinn, Gilshenan & Luton is renowned as a law firm that delivers high-quality service and results to its clients.

Commencing in 1924 with the practice of John “Jack” Gilshenan, the firm has always been based in Brisbane whilst serving the needs of clients all over Queensland.

In 1958, Leo Luton joined Jack in partnership, and Gilshenan & Luton commenced practice by that name. In the decades thereafter, the firm built a strong reputation across many areas of law.

At the forefront of our practice, though, has always been criminal law and employment law. We have been continually involved in many of Queensland’s largest and most prominent criminal cases, inquests, and commissions of inquiry over many years.

In 2008 the firm decided to specialise solely in its two core areas of practice – criminal law and employment matters. Since that time the firm has only strengthened its reputation in these areas, solidifying its reputation as the best criminal and employment law firm in Queensland.   

We continue to win peer-judged awards and recommendations for the quality of our work and regularly receive referrals from Queensland’s leading commercial and litigation firms seeking assistance for clients with criminal law or employment issues.

Our work extends across many industries, including law enforcement, health, and the legal and financial professions. Our clients cover a wide range of corporate and individual interests, including business people, government entities and officials, and individuals looking for representation and service of the highest quality.

Latest Articles

Covertly recording conversations in the workplace

Covertly recording conversations in the workplace

In recent years, the issue of covertly recording conversations in the workplace has emerged as an important topic in employment law. Such secret recordings raise concerns about privacy, workplace rights and protections, and the issue of trust between employees and employers.
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The purpose and importance of particulars in disciplinary proceedings

The purpose and importance of particulars in disciplinary proceedings

The 2023 decision of Lavercombe v Legal Services Commission [2023] QCAT 356 is a reminder of the vital role (and the limits) of particulars in disciplinary proceedings. In this case review we consider the purpose and importance of particulars in disciplinary matters.
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Understanding spent convictions in Queensland

Understanding spent convictions in Queensland

A criminal conviction can have lasting impacts on your life, affecting employment, travel, and personal reputation. However, Queensland law recognises that people can rehabilitate and move on from past mistakes. The concept of a "spent conviction" allows certain convictions to be removed from your formal criminal record after a set period, providing a fresh start for eligible individuals.
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The criminal offence of leaving your child unattended

The criminal offence of leaving your child unattended

Parents and guardians often wonder at what age they can responsibly leave their children alone. While the criminal law in Queensland doesn’t assist with what might be regarded as responsible parenting, it does set some limits about when a child can be legally left alone.
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