You have the right to remain silent. You DO have to provide the police with your name, date of birth and contact details. You should NOT answer any questions, make any statement or participate in any interview with the police. You should be polite to the officer but insist that you want to talk to your lawyer. You have the right to telephone a friend, relative or assault lawyer.

In Queensland, the duration of an assault charge largely hinges on the severity of the offence. Minor offences generally have a statute of limitations of one year from the date of the offence. However, for more serious charges, there’s no time limit for when the charge can be brought forward. Once charges are filed, the resolution can take months to years, depending on various factors. A conviction for an assault charge typically remains on a person’s criminal record indefinitely, though it can be spent (removed) after a generally 10-year period without re-offending. Always consult with a lawyer for advice tailored to specific circumstances.

In Australia, if a person is charged with assault, the charge and subsequent court proceedings become part of the public record. This means that certain information, such as the nature of the charge, court dates, and the outcome of the case, may be accessible to the public. However, detailed information contained within court files may be restricted, especially to protect the identities of certain parties involved, such as victims or minors. While these records are public, there are rules and regulations regarding their accessibility and use to protect individuals’ privacy. Always consult with a lawyer for guidance based on specific circumstances.