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

Proposed amendments to penalties under the Work Health Safety Act in Queensland

Proposed amendments to penalties under the Work Health Safety Act in Queensland

Under the Work Health and Safety Act in Queensland, penalties for offences relating to breaches of health and safety duties have not increased since the WHS regime was introduced in 2012. For several years there has been ongoing debate regarding two key considerations with respect to the sentencing process for breaches of duties owed under the WHS Act.
Read more
High Court finds employer not vicariously liable for employee’s negligent urination

High Court finds employer not vicariously liable for employee’s negligent urination

In the August 2023, the High Court unanimously overturned the earlier decision of the Queensland Court of Appeal that had originally found an employer was vicariously liable for the wrongful act of an intoxicated employee who had urinated on a colleague sleeping in staff accommodation.
Read more
Diversionary options for young offenders in Queensland

Diversionary options for young offenders in Queensland

When it is appropriate to do so, a child who has criminally offended should be diverted away from the criminal justice system, unless the nature of the offence and the child’s criminal history indicate that a proceeding for the offence should be started.
Read more
Applying for a work licence in Queensland

Applying for a work licence in Queensland

In Queensland, if you are facing court ordered disqualification from driving, you may be eligible to apply for a work licence to allow you to continue to drive in the course of your employment.
Read more