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Murder Defence Lawyers Queensland
What is murder under Queensland law?
In Queensland, murder is defined under Section 302 of the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld) as the unlawful killing of another person, with the intent to kill, cause grievous bodily harm or in circumstances showing reckless disregard for human life.
In simple terms, a person can be charged with murder if:
- They deliberately caused death, or
- They intended to cause serious injury but the person died, or
- They acted with reckless indifference, knowing death was a likely result.
Actions such as stabbing, shooting or poisoning can all be murder. So can acting recklessly in a motor vehicle or in other dangerous situations. What matters is that the person was killed, not the method of their death.
Call us if you're facing a murder charge
At Osborne Butler Lawyers, we’re experienced in defending all types of murder charges across Queensland. We have offices in central locations in Cairns, Brisbane and Gold Coast and attend court locations across QLD.
We understand how these cases are prosecuted and know how to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors and build the best defence.
Use the form to ask us anything. We’ll respond in 24 hours.
What’s the difference between murder and manslaughter?
The key difference between murder and manslaughter comes down to intent.
What makes something murder in Queensland?
Murder involves:
- Intent to kill
- Intent to cause grievous bodily harm, or
- Reckless disregard for human life.
In other words, if a person meant to cause death (or knew death was likely), it may be treated as murder.
What is manslaughter under Qld law?
Manslaughter covers unlawful killings without intent, such as:
- Accidents
- Negligence
- Provocation (in rare cases)
Manslaughter is still a serious offence, but it reflects a lack of intent to kill.
Why the distinction between murder and manslaughter matters
Because murder involves intent, it carries harsher penalties. This includes mandatory life imprisonment.
Manslaughter penalties can vary more based on the situation.
Examples of conduct that may constitute murder
There are a variety of actions that can count as murder in Queensland. These include:
- Direct acts such as stabbing, shooting or poisoning the victim
- Acts intended to cause serious harm that result in death, such as attacking someone
- Acting in a reckless way that is indifferent to the victim’s life, such as driving a motor vehicle at extreme speeds in a crowded area, or using a dangerous item in a way that is deliberately inappropriate.
What matters is that the person was killed, not the method of their death.
What are the penalties for murder in Queensland?
Murder is one of the most serious offences under Queensland law. If you are convicted with murder the sentence is:
- Mandatory life imprisonment, and
- A minimum non-parole period of 20 years
This minimum non-parole period (i.e. the period during which you cannot be released) increases in cases involving:
- Multiple victims
- Child victims
- Police officers or emergency personnel, or
- Domestic violence-related murders.
Defending a murder charge
Defending a murder charge requires a strong, evidence-based strategy. Potential legal defences include:
- Self-defence: acting to protect yourself or another person
- Accident: where you did not intend to cause death and could not reasonably foresee it would result from your actions
- Provocation: this can be a partial defence in rare cases
- Mental health or impairment: where this affects your ability to form intent.
You’ll typically need to support any defence with:
- Expert evidence (forensic evidence and psychiatric reports)
- Witness statements, an
- An analysis of prosecution claims and procedural fairness
An experienced criminal defence lawyer will help organise the best defence in your circumstances, and may also:
- Challenge the evidence
- Seek to reduce or withdraw charges
- Negotiate with prosecutors to achieve an early resolution.
What should you do if you are accused or charged with murder?
If you’re under investigation or charged with murder, it is vital that you:
- Do not speak to police without a lawyer present
- Avoid posting online or messaging anyone about the matter
- Preserve any evidence you know of, such as CCTV, messages or documents
Early legal advice can dramatically influence the course of your case.
When should you contact a criminal defence lawyer?
Immediately.
You should contact a criminal defence lawyer as soon as:
- You’re contacted by police
- You’re accused of serious harm or involved in a fatal incident
- You believe charges may be laid.
This is not a time to take chances. Legal advice from the outset can change the entire trajectory of your case.
Call us if you're facing a murder charge
At Osborne Butler Lawyers, we understand how confronting a murder charge can be for both you and your loved ones. We have the experience, knowledge and judgement to guide you through this complex process with clarity and strength.
Whether you’ve been charged or are under investigation, we’re here to help.
Use the form below to get in touch. We’ll respond within 24 hours.
How We Can Help You
40+ Years Combined Experience
When you engage Osborne Butler, your matter will be handled by experienced lawyers who will be by side every step of the way.
Available 24/7
The earlier you have a lawyer on your side, the better chance you have of achieving a favourable outcome.
We Fight For Your Future
Our promise goes beyond words. We're in your corner, championing your rights and fighting fiercely for your future.
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Our Commitment To You
We treat our clients with empathy and respect. We’re dedicated to breaking down legal jargon and the complexities of the criminal justice process.
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You can be assured of our strict confidentiality and sensitivity policy no matter how big or small the charge.
If you or someone you care about is facing a murder charge in Queensland, contact Osborne Butler Lawyers immediately for expert legal advice and defence.
Need a Criminal Defence Lawyer? Contact Osborne Butler
If you have a question or require legal advice or representation, please complete this form and we’ll respond within 24 hours. For urgent matters, please call us:
Cairns: 07 4041 3301
Brisbane: 07 3521 5588
Gold Coast: 07 5532 0066
