Criminal Defence

A defendant who successfully defends charges in the Magistrates Court is not automatically entitled to costs but they can usually apply for the reimbursement of some of their legal costs. Two recent District Court appeal cases in Queensland have provided useful guidance on the recovery of costs in such matters.

As of 3 October 2023, persons accused of, and charged with sexual offences including rape, attempted rape, assault with intent to commit rape, and sexual assault, can have their identity published by the media.

On 1 August 2023, significant changes were made to domestic and family violence protection laws in Queensland in response to the Hear Her Voice recommendations. Amongst other changes, the amendments import “a pattern of behaviour” into the definition of domestic violence, to encompass behaviour that occurs over a period of time or via a series of acts.

A police interview is often the start of a criminal matter and can make or break a case. If you do participate in a police interview, regardless of whether it occurs in a formal or informal setting, it is important to know that it can later be used as evidence against you in Court.