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Torture · Cairns & Far North QLD

Torture charge lawyer in Cairns

Torture is one of the most serious violence charges in Queensland, and it does not require a physical injury. Talk to Joseph Rahim about the charge before you speak to police.

Free, confidential first consultation. No obligation.

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The charge

What the prosecution must prove

Torture is an offence under section 320A of the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld).

The elements

The prosecution must prove that you intentionally inflicted severe pain or suffering on a person, by an act or a series of acts, on one occasion or more.

What pain or suffering means

It includes physical, mental, psychological or emotional pain or suffering, whether it lasted only a short time or is permanent.

The intent and the severity are usually the central questions. Conduct that does not meet the test may still be charged as a different offence, such as assault occasioning bodily harm or grievous bodily harm.

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Where are you at?

Pick the one closest to your situation and a chat opens with it already said. No forms, and you can call instead at any time.

The process

What usually happens after a criminal charge

Every matter is different, but most follow this order.

Police contact

You may be asked to take part in an interview. You have the right to remain silent, but you must give your name and address when asked. Get advice before you say anything else.

The charge and bail

You are charged and given a court date, sometimes on bail with conditions. Read the conditions carefully; breaching them is an offence.

First court date

Charges usually start in the Magistrates Court. For people charged in or around Cairns, that is usually the Cairns Magistrates Court on Sheridan Street.

Resolution

The matter is resolved by a plea of guilty, a hearing or trial, or the charge being withdrawn. More serious charges can be sent to a higher court.

Things to know

How these cases work

  • No physical injury is neededMental, psychological or emotional suffering can be enough if it is severe and intentionally inflicted.
  • A series of acts can countThe charge can be based on conduct over more than one occasion, considered together.
  • A higher courtTorture is a serious indictable offence, sent to a higher court for trial or sentence.
Things to avoid

Do not contact the complainant

Do not contact them directly, online or through someone else, as contact can breach bail and lead to arrest.

Do not explain it to police first

You must give your name and address when asked. Get advice before you say anything else.

How Joseph helps

One lawyer, from your first call to the end of your matter

Joseph Rahim, Principal. LLB (First Class Honours), Grad Dip LP. Member, Queensland Law Society. About Joseph

When you call Coral Coast Law, you speak with Joseph Rahim, and he handles your matter himself.

  • He goes through the police allegations with you and tells you exactly what you are charged with.
  • He advises you before you speak to police or make any statement.
  • He gets the evidence reviewed early, and looks at whether the charge fits what is alleged.
  • He represents you in court, including on bail if it is needed.
  • He tells you plainly what to expect, and puts your circumstances properly to the court.
Talk to Joseph
Joseph Rahim, Principal of Coral Coast Law
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Questions

Torture questions

Does there have to be an injury?

No. Severe mental, psychological or emotional pain or suffering can be enough.

Can it be one incident?

Yes. It can be one act, or a series of acts on more than one occasion.

Which court hears a torture charge?

It starts in the Magistrates Court and is sent to a higher court for trial or sentence.

Is the first consultation free?

Yes. It is free, confidential and comes with no obligation.

Didn’t see your question? Ask it in chat.

Talk to Joseph before your court date

The sooner you get advice, the more can be done. Tell Joseph what has happened and find out exactly where you stand, with no cost and no pressure.

0447 028 080

Free, confidential first consultation.

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This page is general information about Queensland law. It is not legal advice. Every matter turns on its own facts, so speak with us about yours.