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What You Need to Know
Violent offences—including assault—are taken extremely seriously under Queensland law. Charges range in seriousness depending on the alleged conduct and any injuries caused. If you’ve been accused of such an offence, securing expert legal advice early can make all the difference.
Types of Assault and Violence Offences
There are various types of violent offences under Queensland law, including:
- Common assault
- Assault occasioning bodily harm (AOBH)
- Serious assault
- Unlawful wounding
- Grievous bodily harm (GBH)
Each offence has different legal elements and penalties. The seriousness of the charge often reflects the extent of harm allegedly caused.
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What You Can Expect
Penalties vary significantly depending on the specific offence:
- Common Assault carries a maximum penalty of 3 years’ imprisonment.
- Grievous Bodily Harm, considered one of the most serious assault charges, carries a maximum of 14 years’ imprisonment.
The court will consider factors such as the degree of injury, the circumstances of the offence, and the offender’s history.
Possible Defences
Depending on the facts of the case, several legal defences may be available, including:
- Self-defence – where force was used reasonably to protect oneself or another.
- Compulsion or duress – where the offence was committed under threat or coercion.
- Lack of intent or accident – in some cases, the conduct may not meet the required intent for the offence.
Each matter turns on its facts, so legal advice is essential to assess your options.
What the Courts Think
Queensland courts regard violent offences as serious and often impose custodial sentences, even for first-time offenders. This area of law is an exception to the general sentencing principle that imprisonment is a sentence of last resort.
However, with strong legal advocacy, it is possible to argue for alternatives to full-time imprisonment, especially where mitigating factors are present.
How We Can Help
At Jones + Associates, we understand the complexities of assault and violence offences. We will carefully review the facts of your case, advise you on available defences, and represent your best interests—whether that means fighting the charge or mitigating any penalty.
If you or someone you know is facing an investigation or has been charged with a violent offence, call our office today on (07) 3229 3166 for immediate assistance.
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