Criminal Defence Lawyers
Gold Coast & Brisbane (QLD)
50+ Years of Expertise in Criminal, Traffic and Domestic Violence Law
Who We Are.
Since 1996, more than 15,000 people in Queensland have trusted Donnelly Law Group to achieve the best possible outcome in their criminal law cases, traffic matters, domestic violence disputes, and bail applications. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having the professional and personal support of a specialist team of criminal lawyers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
We have built a proven track record by revolutionising how criminal lawyers defend and support clients. Our expert lawyers get to know you personally so that they can provide practical advice on the steps you can take for a winning chance in court. This relationship also gives us the insight we need to tailor your personalised defence strategy – one that takes full advantage of your case’s unique evidence and mitigating factors for the best possible outcome.
As a collaborative law firm, you benefit from having all of our criminal lawyers work together on your case, exploring every potential avenue of legal defence. We also invest heavily in cutting-edge legal software and communication so that your matter moves faster whilst you enjoy a more streamlined and stress-free experience.
We regularly appear before the Magistrates Court, District Court, and Supreme Court in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, and regional Queensland. Accordingly, our clients benefit from the respectful relationships we have built with magistrates, judges, the police, and other legal professionals.
Book your free consultation with Donnelly Law Group today and have one of the best criminal law firms in Queensland expertly prepare your defence case.
Who We Are.
Since 1996, more than 15,000 people in Queensland have trusted Donnelly Law Group to achieve the best possible outcome in their criminal cases, traffic matters, domestic violence disputes and bail applications. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having the professional and personal support of a specialist team of criminal lawyers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
We have built a proven track record by revolutionising the way in which criminal lawyers defend and support clients. Our expert lawyers get to know you personally so that they can provide practical advice on the steps you can take for a winning chance in court. This relationship also gives us the insight we need to tailor your personalised defence strategy – one that takes full advantage of your case’s unique evidence and mitigating factors for the best possible outcome.
As a collaborative law firm, you benefit from having all of our criminal lawyers work together on your case, exploring every potential avenue of legal defence. We also invest heavily in cutting-edge legal software and communication so that your matter moves faster whilst you enjoy a more streamlined and stress-free experience.
We regularly appear before the Magistrates Court, District Court and Supreme Court in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and regional Queensland. Accordingly, our clients benefit from the respectful relationships we have built with magistrates, judges, the police and other legal professionals.
Book your free consultation with Donnelly Law Group today and have one of the best criminal law firms in Queensland expertly prepare your defence case.
Our Story.
Since 1996, Donnelly Law Group has helped more than 15,000 people in Queensland to achieve the best possible outcome in their criminal, traffic, domestic violence and bail matters. In doing so, we have earned the respect of magistrates, judges, the police and other legal professionals all over the state. Today, we proudly offer our services state-wide from our Gold Coast and Brisbane offices.
At Donnelly Law Group, personal support and criminal defence go hand-in-hand. We get to know you through open conversation and provide practical advice on the steps you can take for a winning chance in court. This relationship gives us the insight we need to tailor your personalised defence strategy – one that leverages your case’s unique evidence and mitigating factors for the best possible outcome.
Although our practice is long-standing and reputable, we maintain our position at the forefront of the legal industry by continuing to adopt modern ideas. As a collaborative law firm, you benefit from having all of our criminal lawyers work together on your case, exploring every potential avenue of legal defence. We also invest heavily in cutting-edge legal software so that your matter moves faster whilst you enjoy a more streamlined and stress-free experience.
Contact Donnelly Law Group today and have one of the best criminal law firms in Queensland professionally prepare your defence case. Our trained support staff are ready to take your call 24/7 and one of our criminal lawyers will provide you with a free case assessment on the same day.
Our Process.
Meet Our Team.
CAL38
Gold Coast
The Geraghty Family
Paul Maka
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Do I Need to Answer Police Questions?
In Australia, you have the right to remain silent when questioned by the police. This means you are not obligated to answer any questions beyond providing your name, address, and date of birth if asked. However, there are some situations where you must answer specific questions, such as when driving a vehicle, where you must provide your driver’s licence and details about the vehicle. It’s important to exercise your right to remain silent to avoid inadvertently incriminating yourself. If you are unsure about your rights, it’s advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified criminal lawyer.
What Is the Difference Between Criminal and Civil Law?
Criminal Law: Deals with offences against the state. It involves government prosecution and can result in penalties like imprisonment or fines. Examples include theft and assault. The standard of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Civil Law: Concerns disputes between individuals or entities, such as contracts or personal injury cases. It typically results in compensation or enforcement of rights rather than punishment. The standard of proof is “the balance of probabilities.”
I Am Charged with a Serious Offence, Why Do I Have to Appear in the Magistrates Court?
If you are charged with a serious offence in Queensland, your case typically begins in the Magistrates Court. This court conducts the initial hearing to determine whether there is enough evidence for your case to proceed to a higher court, such as the District or Supreme Court, where serious offences are tried. The Magistrates Court also handles bail applications and may hear and decide on less serious aspects of the case. Appearing in the Magistrates Court is a crucial step in the legal process to ensure your case is appropriately managed and directed to the correct court for trial.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
While you have the right to represent yourself in court, having a lawyer is highly advisable, especially if you are facing criminal charges. A lawyer can provide expert advice, protect your rights, and navigate the complex legal system on your behalf. They can help you understand the charges, the possible consequences, and the best strategies for your defence. Legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case, potentially leading to reduced charges or penalties. If you are unable to afford a lawyer, you may be eligible for legal aid services.
How long does a criminal record last in Australia?
In Queensland, a criminal conviction can become “spent” under the Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986. A conviction is typically considered spent after 10 years for adults and 5 years for juveniles, provided no further offences are committed during this period. Once a conviction is spent, it does not need to be disclosed in most circumstances and is generally not included in most police checks. However, some serious offences, such as sexual offences, may never become spent. It’s important to understand the specific conditions and exceptions under Queensland law.
