Who to contact for Criminal Law matters in QLD?

A directory of the most important contacts for Criminal Law matters in Queensland, including Legal Aid and Queensland Courts.

Criminal Law Contacts & Resources QLD

Facing a police investigation or criminal charges can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Below is a directory of key bodies and contacts relevant to criminal law in Queensland.

1. Bell & Senior Lawyers

If you are asked to attend a police interview or are served with a Notice to Appear, you must get legal advice immediately.

Phone: (07) 5532 8777
What we do: Rigorous criminal defence representation in the Southport Magistrates Court and District Court. We advise on your right to silence, apply for bail, and strategically defend traffic, assault, drug, and white-collar charges.
Location: Gold Coast, Queensland

2. Legal Aid Queensland

If you cannot afford a private lawyer and your matter is serious enough that you could face jail time, you may be eligible for Legal Aid.

Phone: 1300 65 11 88
Website: legalaid.qld.gov.au
When to call: To apply for a grant of legal aid, access free duty lawyer services at the Magistrates court, or obtain initial legal advice over the phone.

3. Queensland Police Service (QPS)

If you need to report a crime or comply with bail reporting conditions.

Phone (Emergency): 000
Phone (Non-Emergency/PoliceLink): 131 444
Website: police.qld.gov.au
When to call: To report property damage, non-urgent theft, or to organise attendance at a station if you have been asked to drop in for an interview. (Never attend a police interview without speaking to a lawyer first).

4. Queensland Courts (Magistrates Court)

Virtually all criminal matters start in the Magistrates Court.

Website: courts.qld.gov.au/courts/magistrates-court
When to call: To confirm your court date, verify which courtroom your matter is listed in, or access forms to apply for a specialized work licence.

5. Department of Justice and Attorney-General (DJAG)

The department responsible for administering justice in Queensland, including the Victim Assist scheme.

Phone (Victim Assist): 1300 546 587
Website: qld.gov.au/law/crime-and-police/victims-and-witnesses-of-crime
When to call: If you are the victim of a violent crime and need to apply for financial assistance to cover medical, counselling, or security expenses.

Charged with an offence? Act quickly. Contact Bell & Senior Lawyers today for robust legal representation.