Charged with Grievous Bodily Harm?

Grievous bodily harm is a charge which must be determined in the District Court. It is a serious criminal offence and often involves terms of imprisonment.

Grievous bodily harm is an offence under the Criminal Code 1899 (Qld), and means:

a.     the loss of a distinct part or an organ of the body; or

b.     serious disfigurement; or

c.      any bodily injury of such a nature that, if left untreated, would endanger or be likely to endanger life, or cause or be likely to cause permanent injury to health; whether or not treatment is or could have been available.

Example of injuries could include:

1.     Broken bones

2.     Severe lacerations or burns

3.     Internal injuries or organ damage

4.     Loss of limbs or permanent impairment of a limb or bodily function

5.     Facial injuries resulting in permanent disfigurement

6.     Brain damage or serious head injuries

7.     Spinal injuries resulting in paralysis or other serious impairments

A medical report from a doctor will need to be supplied in the evidence to prove grievous bodily harm.

Depending on the facts and the medical evidence, charge negotiations may be appropriate in your case to downgrade the charge to another offence such as assault occasioning bodily harm.

Our criminal lawyers are very experienced in these types of negotiations and are available to discuss whether it is suitable in your case.

All articles on our website are of a general nature and should not be relied upon as legal advice. The information contained within, is accurate at the time of publication. If you require further information, advice or assistance for your specific circumstances, please contact us.