Natalie Smith
Lawyer
Natalie joined Gilshenan & Luton in 2015 and has worked exclusively in the areas of criminal law and professional misconduct since that time.
She has a background in financial administration and brings a detail oriented approach to both her defence and prosecution work. Natalie enjoys untangling complex matters, conducting advanced legal research to assist clients and helping them through what is often a difficult time.
Natalie has represented clients in all courts in Queensland and has conducted QCAT hearings as a solicitor-advocate. She has particular experience in:
- Sexual offences;
- Domestic violence;
- Drug offences;
- Traffic offences; and
- Commissions of inquiry.
Natalie regularly volunteers for a community legal centre and devotes her spare time to skiing, aerial silks and baking.
Recent articles by Natalie
The offence of ‘public nuisance’ – just how much of a nuisance do you have to be?
The Summary Offences Act provides that a person commits the offence of ‘public nuisance’ if they behave in a disorderly, offensive, threatening or violent way and their behaviour interferes (or is likely to interfere), with the peaceful passage through, or enjoyment of, a public place.
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Getting a case dismissed due to mental health (in the Queensland Magistrates Court)
Managing mental health issues is a difficult and complex task. If you, or a loved one, has a mental illness and are charged with a criminal offence, it is important to obtain legal advice from an experienced criminal lawyer, as there are means of having charges dismissed under the Mental Health Act.
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Bail in Queensland – applications, granting and refusals
Bail is an undertaking to come to court when your criminal case is mentioned and sometimes, to comply with other conditions imposed by the court. In Queensland, a person charged with an offence may be released on bail under the provisions of the Bail Act. Learn more.
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COVID-19 and Home Confinement Direction Queensland
On 29 March 2020, the chief health officer issued the ‘home confinement direction’ – the most restrictive direction so far. So what does it involve?
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