If you’ve been charged in Queensland, your case will usually start in the Magistrates Court. The first date you attend is called the first mention. It’s vital not to miss this date – if you fail to appear, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest. The first mention is simply your first day […]

Queensland police officers have defined powers when arresting and investigating a suspected offence. Generally, an officer must reasonably suspect you have committed a serious offence (indictable offence or a breach of bail) to arrest you without a warrant. If you are arrested, police must immediately tell you you’re under arrest and the reason (and caution […]

In a recent Southport District Court matter (24 January 2025), a Gold Coast man pleaded guilty to online child exploitation offences. The court sentenced him to two years’ imprisonment but immediately released him on a recognisance order. This means he will serve his sentence in the community under strict conditions (good behaviour) for three years, […]

When a defendant is convicted in Queensland, the court (usually a Magistrate or Judge) must impose a sentence. The Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld) tells courts what factors to consider: the need to punish, rehabilitate, deter, protect the community, and denounce the crime. The court also looks at the nature of the offence, harm […]

If you’ve been arrested in Queensland, understanding bail is vital. Bail is a written promise (bail undertaking) to return to court to face charges. In Queensland, police can grant “watch-house bail” after an arrest. If they don’t, they must take you to court as soon as possible so you can apply for bail. At court […]

In response to the rising number of domestic and family violence (DFV) incidents, the Queensland Government has introduced significant reforms aimed at improving victim protection and streamlining police and court processes. While these reforms are designed to provide faster responses and better safeguards for victims, they also carry important implications for the accused and defendants […]