What counts as assault under Queensland law? Assault charges under Queensland law can arise from conduct that is broader than most people assume. It can include applying force to another person, attempting to apply force, or threatening force in circumstances where the threat appears capable of being carried out. That last point surprises many people […]

How Stalking Charges Are Defined Under Queensland Law Stalking charges in Queensland are governed by section 359B of the Criminal Code 1899 (Qld), which targets conduct directed at another person that can occur on a single protracted occasion or over a series of separate occasions. The conduct must be intentional, must occur on more than […]

What a Queensland court is deciding at sentencing At sentencing, a Queensland court decides the lawful consequence for an offence after guilt has been accepted or proved. By this stage, the question of whether the person committed the offence has already been settled. What remains is a different question altogether: what penalty, order, or combination […]

Common Charges in Domestic Violence Cases in Queensland The most common charges in domestic violence matters in Queensland are assault, unlawful stalking, sexual offences, choking or strangulation, wilful damage to property, and breaching a domestic violence order. Each is prosecuted under the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld) or the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act […]

What Counts as Harassment and Threatening Behaviour in Queensland? Harassment charges in Queensland can arise from several different criminal offences depending on the conduct alleged. Queensland criminal law does not have a single offence simply called harassment, but harassment is expressly named in one of the key offences. Since 1 August 2023, the offence in […]

How Child Sexual Offences Are Investigated in Queensland Allegations involving child sexual offences are treated with significant seriousness within the Queensland criminal justice system and are commonly prioritised by investigating authorities. Investigations are often extensive in nature and may involve the taking of detailed complainant statements, the gathering and analysis of digital material, the execution […]

Facing bail conditions for weapons charges in Queensland can be a daunting experience, and one of the critical steps in the process is securing bail. At McConnell & Saldumbide Criminal Lawyers, we understand how vital it is for those accused to navigate the bail process smoothly and comply with any conditions imposed. Knowing your rights […]

Understanding domestic violence laws is crucial for anyone facing allegations in Queensland, as these offences carry serious legal consequences. At McConnell & Saldumbide Criminal Lawyers, we understand the importance of ensuring that our clients are fully informed of their rights and the legal framework they are facing. Whether you are a defendant, or someone involved […]

Weapons offenses in regional Queensland are a serious matter, with significant legal repercussions. The prevalence of such offenses varies across the region, reflecting diverse socio-economic and cultural contexts. Understanding your legal rights and the steps to take if you’re charged with a weapons offense in regional Queensland is crucial. Navigating the complexities of the legal […]

When facing the sentencing phase in a criminal or traffic matter in Queensland, the stakes are undeniably high. The outcome of this phase will not only determine your immediate future but also have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. This blog post aims to demystify the sentencing process, offering comprehensive insights and practical […]

Property crimes, encompassing a range of unlawful activities involving the destruction, theft, or misuse of someone’s property, present a significant challenge in Australia. These offences, varying from burglary (including unlawful entry) to arson, vandalism, and fraud, not only inflict substantial financial losses but also have a profound impact on the social fabric of communities. In […]

Navigating the criminal justice system can often seem like a daunting and complex journey. In Queensland, understanding the stages of criminal procedure is vital for defendants, their families, and anyone involved in the legal process. This journey begins the moment an individual is arrested and continues through various critical phases until the final resolution of […]