Accessory to murder offences that our assault & violence defence lawyers provide legal representation for
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Attempted murder
- Accessory to murder after the fact
- Grievous bodily harm (GBH)
- Acts intended to cause GBH
- Unlawful wounding
- Assault occasioning bodily harm (AOBH)
- Armed robbery
- Torture
- Unlawful striking causing death
- Serious assault
- Common assault
Accessory After the Fact to Murder
In Queensland, Accessory After the Fact to Murder is a serious offence under the Criminal Code. It applies when a person, knowing that someone has committed murder, deliberately helps them avoid being caught or punished.
The law defines it as intentionally assisting or receiving a person who has committed an offence, in this case murder, with the purpose of helping them escape. This assistance must happen after the murder has taken place and can take many different forms.
This offence can arise in situations where a person was not involved in the killing itself but took steps afterwards to shield the offender from the consequences. The assistance could be physical, such as hiding them or destroying evidence, or it could involve misleading police to delay or prevent an arrest.
Examples
Acts that may amount to accessory after the fact to murder include:
- Hiding the offender at your home so police cannot find them
- Driving the offender away from the crime scene knowing they committed the murder
- Disposing of the murder weapon
- Cleaning the crime scene to remove blood or other evidence
- Giving false information to police about the offender’s whereabouts
- Helping the offender leave Queensland to avoid arrest
What the prosecution must prove
To find someone guilty of this offence, the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that:
- A person unlawfully kills another (principal offender)
- The accused assisted or received that person after the murder (e.g. conceal the crime or hide the offender)
- The accused knew that the person had committed murder (must be actual knowledge, mere suspicion is not sufficient)
- The accused acted with the purpose of helping the offender conceal the crime, avoid arrest or provide misleading information
If you have been charged with accessory after the fact to murder, it is recommend to seek legal advice immediately. Contact us on 1300 11 22 12 for a free and confidential consultation.
Possible defence strategies for accessory to murder after the fact in QLD
- Knowledge: Accused has no real or actual knowledge that a murder was committed, wilful blindess may not be sufficient.
- No Assistance: Accused did not assist with the concealment of the crime
- Duress: The accused was threatened into assisting the principal offender
- Mistaken Identity: The accused was wrongly identified as the person who assisted the principal offender
What are the maximum penalties for accessory to murder after the fact in QLD?
The maximum penalty for accessory after the fact to murder in Queensland is life imprisonment. In practice, ‘life’ sentences typically requires the offender to serve a minimum of 15 years imprisonment before applying for parole.
Accessory after the fact to murder is a serious indictable offence that will be dealt with in the Supreme Court of Queensland.
Accessory after the fact to murder is a serious offence that requires immediate legal advice. Contact us on 1300 11 22 12 for a free and confidential consultation.
What factors impact the severity of accessory to murder charges in QLD?
- Assistance: Whether the offender’s assistance was immediate, or prolonged over a period of time
- Nature of actions: Whether the accused hid the offender, destroyed evidence, or misled police
- Prior criminal history: Prior criminal history can increase the penalty if it shows a pattern of similar offending
What other consequences could you face following accessory to murder charges in QLD?
- Travel limitations: The seriousness of this offence can result in visa refusals or entry bans in some countries.
- Deportation: If you’re not a permanent Australian citizen, you may be deported due to the severity of the offence.
- Employment: Certain industries like government, security, education or health care may become unavailable.
Why choose Donnelly Law Group to defend your accessory to murder charges in QLD?
Extensive experience defending accessory to murder charges across Brisbane, Gold Coast & Regional Queensland
Donnelly Law Group has provided expert criminal law representation since 1996. Our team of lawyers are committed to providing you with the best representation possible, ensuring you understand the charges against you and support throughout the entire matter.
Local expertise
Our lawyers appear daily before the courts across the state of Queensland. We understand the local court process, court staff and police.
Personalised approach for every accessory to murder charge to help achieve the best outcome for our clients
At Donnelly Law Group, we provide a personalised approach with every client. We have our own dedicated Client Delivery Team that oversees your case and is always available to answer your questions.
Book a free consultation with an experienced assault lawyer in Brisbane, Gold Coast & QLD.
Facing a charge of accessory after the fact to murder is serious and demands skilled legal representation. Our assault lawyers in Brisbane & The Gold Coast have the expertise to guide you through the process and work towards the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
Our legal strategy for accessory to murder offences across Brisbane & Gold Coast (QLD)
At Donnelly Law Group, we have a strong track record of defending clients facing all criminal charges including accessory to murder. Our collaborative law firm ensures the best lawyer is tasked with your matter, ensuring the best possible outcome is achieved.
Initial consultation
During the initial consultation, we want to hear your side of the story and discuss the next legal options available.
Case assessment
In the case assessment, a lawyer will review the alleged facts against you (QP9), explain your rights and provide you with clear legal advice.
Developing a defence strategy
Our lawyers will take your instructions and develop a defence strategy that aims to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in court.
Court representation
In court, our lawyers will present your case with skill, ensuring your position is clearly and persuasively put before the judge or magistrate.
Accessory to murder charge QLD FAQs
What does it mean to be an accessory to murder under Queensland law?
It means knowingly helping someone who has committed murder to avoid arrest, prosecution, or punishment.
Can I be charged as an accessory if I didn’t commit the murder?
Yes. You can be charged if you knowingly assisted the offender after the murder was committed.
What is the difference between being an accessory before and after the fact?
An accessory before the fact helps or encourages the offence beforehand, while an accessory after the fact assists the offender only after the crime has been committed.
What are the penalties for being an accessory to murder in QLD?
The penalty is imprisonment for life.
What should I do if I’m being investigated as an accessory to murder?
You should contact a lawyer immediatley. Any admissions or statements made to the police can be used against you in court.
For a free confidential consultation with our experienced criminal lawyers, call us on 1300 11 22 12
Do I need a lawyer for an accessory to murder charge?
Yes. Attempted murder is a serious indictable offence. You should seek legal representation immediately.
What are the possible defences to an accessory to murder charge?
- Accused has no real or actual knowledge
- Accused did not assist the principal offender
- Duress
- Mistaken Identity
What legislation covers accessory to murder offences in Queensland?
Section 307 of the Queensland Criminal Code.
Can an accessory to murder charge be dropped or downgraded?
Yes. Submissions can be made to have the charge downgraded or withdrawn, and if the matter goes to trial you may be acquitted if found not guilty.
Will I have to appear in court if I’m charged as an accessory to murder?
Yes. You will need to attend your first court appearance. After that, your appearance is usually excused if you have legal representation. However, you must attend in person for your trial or sentencing. If you are remanded in custody, you may appear via videolink.
Can Donnelly Law Group represent clients facing accessory to murder charges outside Brisbane and the Gold Coast?
Yes, we regularly appear for clients located regionally across the state of Queensland.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for accessory to murder charges?
At Donnelly Law Group we understand that legal fees can be a concern. That’s why we offer fixed fee arrangements instead of charging per hour. This ensures you know the exact upfront cost with no unexpected invoices. Additionally, we offer flexible payment plans, allowing you to make a small deposit and pay the remainder as your case progresses. This approach ensures that high quality legal representation is accessible to everyone in Queensland.
