If you're under 18 and charged with an offence, you’ll usually be treated as a child under the law. However, if you’re 18 or older, you may still be dealt with as a child if the offence happened before your 18th birthday.
The Youth Justice Act 1992 protects the identity of children involved in legal matters. This means you can’t publish identifying information about a child unless the court allows it. If you’re unsure, get legal advice before sharing any information.
Children can access legal and support services, including interpreters and advocacy services.
Parents involved in child protection cases can get help from duty lawyers at court or seek advice from Legal Aid Queensland, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service, or private solicitors.
If a child is taken into custody, police decide whether to release them or keep them in custody. Police may release the child without bail or grant bail. If the child is kept in custody, they must be brought to the Childrens Court quickly.
The following Queensland government websites provide helpful tips:
