Magistrates Court of Queensland complaints policy
This complaints policy and procedure offers a process by which complaints about judicial conduct can be brought to the attention of the Chief Magistrate and, if appropriate, the magistrate or judicial registrar concerned.
There are two types of conduct that can be complained of about magistrates (including acting magistrates) and judicial registrars.
- Judicial conduct
- Delay in delivery of reserved judgments
This complaints policy and procedure does not provide a mechanism for dealing with complaints about the result of a case or about a decision of a magistrate or judicial registrar that could be dealt with on appeal.
Please note: Before making a complaint about a magistrate or judicial registrar you should take the time to read the full policy document . It contains important information which will assist you in deciding if you have a complaint, about who and your rights.
How can I make a complaint?
You can make a complaint by:
- Emailing to cmoffice@justice.qld.gov.au
- Writing to the Chief Magistrate at the address shown below.
The Chief Magistrate
GPO Box 1649
BRISBANE QLD 4001
You will need to include the following information with your complaint:
- Your full name
- Postal address
- Contact telephone number
- Case name and file number (if applicable)
- Details of the relevant events
- Any evidence you have that supports your complaint
- Whether you have reported your complaint to anyone else
- What action you would like to see as a result of your complaint.
Acknowledgment of your complaint
The Court will generally acknowledge receipt of your complaint within 7 working days. The Chief Magistrate will provide a considered response within 20 working days of receipt of your complaint. If it is not possible to respond within that time you will receive a letter outlining the reason for the delay.