Townsville Lawyers providing trusted legal advice
across North Queensland for over 130 years.
Compensation Law
Compensation Law
Includes personal compensation claims, superannuation claims and professional negligence claims.
Explore
Family Law
Family Law
Includes separation, divorce, property settlements, children and domestic violence.
Explore
Wills & Estates
Wills & Estates
Includes Estate Administration, Estate Litigation and Estate Planning.
Explore
Property, Development & Leasing Law
Property, Development & Leasing Law
Includes property, body corporate, land subdivisions, unit developments, mortgages, securities, rural and town planning matters.
Explore
Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Our criminal lawyers will assist with traffic offences, domestic violence and white-collar crimes.
Explore
Conveyancing
Conveyancing
Includes residential sales and purchases
Explore
Business Services & Employment Law
Business Services & Employment Law
Business and commercial law including business sales and acquisitions, leasing, employment and industrial relations law, maritime law, PPSA matters, company incorporations and trust establishments.
Explore
Commercial Litigation
Commercial Litigation
Includes debt recovery, business disputes, building and construction, insolvency, environmental offences and town planning appeals.
Explore
Leading Lawyers Townsville
Sometimes, all you need is a fresh perspective. Connolly Suthers are North Queensland’s most experienced and qualified law firm. Established in 1895 with a foundation of leading Townsville lawyers, Connolly Suthers has since become one of North Queensland’s largest, most diverse, and dynamic firms.
Employing a range of expert Queensland lawyers who offer specialist legal advice, Connolly Suthers comprises a team of individual talents working under collective energy. Originating from Townsville Connolly Suthers deliver Queensland’s highest standards of legal help, advice, and services.
We work under the belief that strong reputations don't go unnoticed, and this is why our firm has continued to successfully service the legal needs of North Queenslanders for over 130 years. Work with a law firm that understands you and prioritises your needs – work with Connolly Suthers.
Read MoreWhat Our Clients Are Saying
Read AllOur Legal Blogs
Read All
Understanding Jack’s Law in Queensland
Queensland has now permanently expanded police powers to conduct searches using metal detectors – commonly known as Jack’s Law. These laws significantly broaden the circumstances in which police officers may, without a warrant, stop, detain and require a person to submit to the use of a hand held scanner. It is important to understand what these powers mean, how they developed, and the possible consequences that might follow from a “wanding”. What is Jack’s Law and why was it introduced? Jack’s Law gives police officers the power to require a person to stop and submit to the use of a hand held scanner without a warrant. The legislation is named in honour of 17-year-old, Jack Beasley, who was tragically killed by a knife attack in December 2019 during a night out with friends in Surfers Paradise. His death sparked community concern about knife-related violence, particularly in safe night precincts and youth environments. In response, the Queensland Government introduced a trial of hand held scanners within the Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach Safe Night Precincts between May 2021 and April 2023. How did the law develop? Due to the trial’s reported success, in April 2023 the Queensland Government increased the areas where hand held scanners may be used to include all 15 Safe Night Precincts in Queensland, public transport stations and public transport vehicles. In August 2024, the Queensland Government again expanded the areas to be considered as relevant places under Jack’s Law to include public places such as shopping centres, retail premises, sporting and entertainment venues, licensed venues and rail lines, and extended the expiry of these provisions to 30 October 2026. Although the trial was set to end on 30 October 2026, the Queensland Government passed amendments in June 2025 making Jack’s Law permanent, expanding police powers even further, and removing previous safeguards regarding hand held scanners. What does the law currently say? Jack’s Law powers are set out in Part 3A of the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (Qld) (‘the Act’). The purpose of the legislation is to detect or deter the commission of an offence involving the possession or use of a knife or other weapon.[1] Section 39BA(1) of the Act provides that a police officer may, without a warrant, require a person to stop and submit to the use of a hand held scanner in a public place at, in or on any of the following places (each a relevant place): Licensed premises; A public transport station; A public transport vehicle; Retail premises; A safe night precinct; A shopping centre; and A sporting or entertainment venue. This does not require a warrant, reasonable suspicion, or prior approval from a senior police officer. If a police officer starts to exercise a power in relation to a person while at, in or on a relevant place, the police officer may continue to exercise the power even if the person leaves the relevant place.[2] This means that if a police officer approaches you at a licensed premises and requires you to submit to a scan, you cannot avoid the requirement simply by leaving. The officer may still require you to submit to a scan outside the premises. A senior police officer (being an officer of at least the rank of inspector or senior sergeant) may also authorise the use of a hand held scanner in a public place other than a relevant place (that is, places not listed above).[3] Similarly, if a police officer begins exercising a power in a public place, they may continue to exercise that power even if the person leaves the area.[4] Safeguards for exercise of powers When exercising Jack’s Law powers, police must do so in the least invasive way practicable. They may also detain a person only for as long as is reasonably necessary to exercise the power. If requested, an officer must inform the person of their name, rank, and station, and produce their identity card for inspection (unless the officer is in uniform). The officer must also inform the person that they are required to allow the use of a hand held scanner, and that failure to comply may result in the person being searched without a warrant.[5] What happens if the hand held scanner detects metal? If a hand held scanner indicates that metal is, or is likely to be, present, a police officer may require the person to produce the item causing the detection, submit to a further scan, and comply with the confiscation of any knife or other weapon.[6] If a scan detects metal and the person fails to produce the relevant item when required, this may give rise to a reasonable suspicion that the person possesses a knife or other weapon. That suspicion then enlivens broader search powers under the Act, allowing police to detain and search the person, and anything in their possession, without a warrant. What happens if the search finds something unlawful? A wand scan itself is not an offence. However, if metal is detected and an unlawful item is identified, whether produced by you or discovered during a subsequent search, you may be charged with a criminal offence. This may include offences such as possessing a knife in a public place or unlawful possession of weapons under the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld). A wand scan may also lead to the detection of other offences, such as possession of dangerous drugs under the Drugs Misuse Act 1986 (Qld) or other offences under the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld). Key Takeaways Police may detain and scan you with a hand held metal detector at a relevant place or at a public place (with authority of a senior police officer) without a warrant; If you refuse to comply with a police officer’s requirement to submit to a scan, police may detain you and conduct a search of you and your possessions without a warrant; If metal is detected, police may require you to produce the item causing the detection, submit to a further scan, and surrender the item if it is unlawful; If metal is detected and you refuse to produce the relevant item, this may give police reasonable suspicion that you possess a knife or other weapon, allowing them to detain you and search you and your possessions without a warrant; and If an unlawful item is located, you may be charged with a criminal offence. [1] Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (Qld) s 39AA.[2] Ibid s 39BA(2). [3] Ibid s 39C. [4] Ibid s 39E. [5] Ibid s 39H. [6] Ibid s 39G. Get help from a criminal lawyer If you have been charged with a criminal offence following a wand scan, or if you believe your rights were breached during a search, it is important to obtain legal advice. At Connolly Suthers Lawyers, our experienced Criminal Law team provide clear and reliable advice, along with effective representation. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us on (07) 4771 5664. This article is of a general nature and should not be relied upon as legal advice. If you require further information, advice or assistance for your specific circumstances, please contact Connolly Suthers Criminal Lawyers.
How to Contest a Domestic Violence Order in QLD
This guide provides a framework for understanding DVOs in Queensland and the process for contesting one. If you are served with an Application for Domestic Violence Order, or a Police Protection Notice (PPN) it is very important that you do the following: Firstly, you are being served by the Queensland Police. The Police must independently serve you with the documents because they are directed to do so by the Court. The Police must personally serve these documents to you to ensure compliance with the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act. It is important that you exercise caution when speaking to police as anything you say or do can be used by the Police against you. You need to exercise your right to silence and ensure you obtain legal advice before speaking to police. You do not need to do this if you simply wish to be served with the material. Secondly, you should obtain independent legal advice as soon as possible. In some cases, Police or Applicant Aggrieved’s can ask the Court to make a temporary protection order without the Respondent being present in Court. In these circumstances, the Court is considering to make a TPO in emergency circumstances. It is important you speak to a lawyer experienced in Domestic Violence Law so that you can get advice as to whether you need to prepare and file a cross-application, or whether you have to draft any material for Court. Finally, you must attend Court on the date specified in the notice of adjournment. Under the DVFPA if you do not appear in Court on the date specified in the notice, the Court is able to hear and determine the application in your absence. This means that if you do not attend Court, a final order can be made against you. This also applies if you are the applicant in a private application, if you do not appear in Court on the date specified, the Court can dismiss your application. If you intend to contest an application it is important that you obtain legal advice. Domestic Violence Proceedings are not like Criminal Proceedings, and the Court has a wide discretion on the evidence to make an order. What Should You Do When Faced With a Protection Order? If you have been served with an Application for a DVO, or you are subject to a Temporary Protection Order; it is important that you comply with the conditions of the order. The making of an order is not a criminal offence, however when the Court imposes conditions in a TPO or final DVO you must strictly adhere to them as breaching the order creates a criminal offence. Some of the conditions which can be included on a DVO will largely depend on the nature of the application and the circumstances raised by the Aggrieved. Typically, some of the conditions can include: - No contact conditions – preventing you as the Respondent from contacting or having any direct or indirect communication with the Aggrieved; No approach condition – a condition preventing your from approaching an aggrieved whether in public or any place for any reason; Distance condition – not be within a specified range of the Aggrieved. For example – a condition imposed stating you cannot be within 100m of the Aggrieved; Ouster condition – a condition where you must immediately or within a specified time, leave your residential premises and be unable to return. This can include the family home. These conditions all can have relevant exceptions imposed to assist you, however it is imperative you obtain legal advice because the effect of these conditions can have on hindering your individual liberty is significant. What happens in Court on the first occasion? One of the first things the Court must consider when going to Court is whether to impose a Temporary Protection Order (TPO). When an application is adjourned, the Court must consider making a TPO, in deciding whether to impose an order the Court must be satisfied that there is a relevant relationship and an act of domestic violence can occur. The bar is extremely low for the Court to consider making an order, and the Court must consider any submission and application in the context of the Aggrieved. This is why it is extremely important to speak to and engage a lawyer to represent you for these proceedings to get the best result possible. Options available to resolve DV Hearings Not every DV Application must be contested, and each response will be relevant to the individual requirements and circumstances of each case. In some cases, a party who does not agree with the application and supporting facts can still agree to an order to reduce legal costs and finalise the application in a timely manner. This process is where you consent to the making of an order, but you are not making admissions to the application. This is a process available to you, it is important that you carefully consider the effect that the making of an order will have. By agreeing to the DVO, you consent to the court’s decision to make the Protection Order permanent. You can agree to the DVO without admission to the domestic violence allegations - this is a way to avoid the time, cost, and stress of a contested hearing while ensuring no formal finding of domestic violence is made against you. A final Protection Order typically lasts for five years. Contest the order If you disagree with the conditions of a DVO, you can choose to contest it. This will initiate a hearing process where you can present evidence or bring witnesses to support the removal or amendment of the order. The court will then evaluate the case and make a final decision on the order. Ask for an adjournment You can also ask the court to postpone the hearing to a later date in order to seek legal advice for a proper response. If the adjournment is granted, a Temporary Protection Order will be made to ensure the safety of the aggrieved, which lasts till the next court date. Queensland Courts recommends DVO respondents get legal advice before deciding whether to agree or disagree with the application. Consulting a family lawyer will not only help you fully understand the consequences of the Protection Order, but also deliver a strategy to mitigate the impact of the order. In many cases, gathering and presenting evidence can still be useful in negotiating the conditions of a Protection Order - even if you plan on consenting to the order. Contact our Criminal Law team today via (07) 4771 5664 or submit a Criminal Law Enquiry via the form at the end of this page. The team at Connolly Suthers has extensive experience in Domestic and Family Violence matters and regularly appears in the Domestic Violence Specialist Court to assist clients navigating these complex issues.
Is It Legal to Record a Conversation in QLD?
In Queensland, the legality of a recorded conversation depends on whether the parties have provided consent, how it was recorded, and who recorded it. Whether you are considering recording a conversation for legal protection or as a future reference to quote verbatim, it’s important to understand how the law applies to the recording. In cases where the involved parties have given consent, recording a conversation is legal. This applies across all states and territories in Australia. However, each state treats secret recordings of conversations (without consent) differently. Is It Legal to Record a Conversation Secretly in QLD? In Queensland, you can record a conversation without the other party knowing as long as you are a participant in the conversation. The Invasion of Privacy Act 1971 (QLD) infers that you can record a conversation, as long as you are part of the conversation This law does not allow you to record conversations between other people. Doing so is illegal, even if the conversation contains matters you are concerned with. While it may be legal to record a conversation secretly in Queensland (as long as you are a participant), state law will restrict how the recording can be used or distributed. Recordings of any conversation, made with or without the consent of other parties, cannot be published or shared with a third party without the consent of all participants. The only legal exceptions to this rule are when the recordings are shared in a legal proceeding or are necessary to protect one’s lawful interests. The court will determine whether it is reasonable to share a recorded conversation with third parties. Can You Record Telephone Conversations in QLD? Yes - technically you can record telephone conversations, if you are participating in the conversation. The state law on recording conversations applies to telephone calls between parties in Queensland. However, the laws on recording interstate call conversations are not as clear due to how other states treat personal privacy. For example, in New South Wales, it is illegal to record a conversation without the consent of all parties, even if you are an active participant. It may not be legal to record a telephone conversation between someone in Queensland and New South Wales, depending on which state laws apply. Legal experts advise erring on the side of caution by seeking consent before recording. Certain phone applications allow calls to be recorded; Queensland law also applies to such recordings, including those made via device speakerphone. Can You Record a Workplace Conversation? It may be legal to record a private conversation in Queensland when you are a participant; however, recording in a workplace setting may result in breaches of trust and confidentiality. Workplaces are bound by additional codes of conduct and internal policies that often prohibit the recording of private conversations without consent. Employees who breach these policies can face dismissal. This outcome is also supported by the Fair Work Commission (FWC), which rules that secretly recording conversations erodes the relationship between employees and employers. One of the most common reasons for recording workplace conversations is to obtain evidence of bullying, discrimination, or unfair dismissal. However, the FWC has historically placed little value on such recordings due to their secretive nature - secret recordings are considered unfair to other participants who "have no opportunity to choose their words carefully". Instead, the FWC encourages employees to seek other ways of keeping records to support a claim, such as taking notes or bringing in a third party as a witness. If you are planning to record a conversation in Queensland or have a recorded conversation that can support a legal claim, we encourage you to seek legal advice from our lawyers in Townsville and Ayr before taking any action. It is a criminal offence to share recordings of a private conversation without the consent of others, and you may face fines of over $6,000 along with a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment. Contact our Criminal Law team today via (07) 4771 5664 or submit a Criminal Law Enquiry via the form at the end of this page. If your matter relates to workplace issues such as unfair dismissal or bullying, our experienced team of business lawyers can assist you.
The Connolly Suthers Difference
At Connolly Suthers, we feel privileged to be entrusted with our client's legal affairs, helping them navigate what is often some of the most challenging times of their lives. Our diverse, talented team has considerable expertise in multiple aspects of law and channel this experience to make a substantial, positive difference in the lives of locals.
We believe that your lawyer should have a significant understanding of how Townsville operates and its underlying cultural systems to provide the most genuine, useful legal advice possible. That’s why we frequently employ experienced legal professionals locally from within North Queensland, possessing a proud history of employing law graduates from James Cook University. Not only does this allow us to give back to the local community, but it only boosts our ability to deliver the most relevant and beneficial legal advice possible.
Our genuine care for the wellbeing of our clients and attention to detail in every case is what sets us apart from other law firms in Queensland. From criminal law to personal injury law, family disputes, property settlements, child custody, and traffic offences, we'll be in your corner, every step of the legal process. If you’re looking for legal support in Townsville, we’re here to make a positive difference in as many lives as possible. Call Connolly Suthers on 07 4771 5664 to get help today.
Read More
If you have an ongoing case with another firm and you are unhappy with how things are progressing, you might want to consider switching to the local lawyers at Connolly Suthers.
Find out what Connolly Suthers can do for you
Schedule A ConsultationNo Win
No Fee
You can have the best legal representation you deserve without the worry of paying legal costs in the event you lose your case*
Providing a stress-free, 'to-your-door' conveyancing service any day, any time that suits you
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
What legal services do Connolly Suthers offer?
We operate across a range of legal matters including compensation, family, wills & estates, property, conveyancing, business, dispute resolution and criminal law; helping a variety of clients across Queensland to navigate the legal system.
It’s highly likely that you’ll need the services of a lawyer at least once in your lifetime. When you turn to Connolly Suthers for legal assistance, you can be confident that you’ll receive quality legal advice with a personal touch, regardless of which service you require. Our criminal lawyers, family lawyers, and compensation solicitors are here to help with the most common types of legal problems faced in these areas of concern.
Whether you're facing criminal offences, are dealing with a family law matter, looking to file compensation claims, have traffic offences, a domestic violence order, class actions, or just require an experienced team to assure a successful legal outcome, we can provide specialised advice for a wide range of concerns and legal issues.
Whatever type of legal assistance you need, we’re sure to be able to help. At Connolly Suthers, we have considerable experience and knowledge in all aspects of compensation law, family law, wills and estates, property law, criminal law, conveyancing, business services and dispute resolution.
We have Queensland Law Society Accredited Specialists in Property Law, Succession Law, Family law and Personal Injuries Litigation. Combining extensively trained and experienced legal practitioners with state-of-the-art communications and technology, Connolly Suthers delivers an unrivalled level of legal service in the Northern Queensland region. Get in touch with our team today - we're here to provide legal advice for a wide range of legal matters.
Do you offer No-Win, No-Fee?
Yes we offer no-win, no-fee services because we believe that nobody should be denied justice as a result of limited finances. We offer no-win, no-fee services in a range of matters including:
- Traffic accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Public liability accidents
- Medical negligence claims
- Life insurance claims
- Superannuation claims
- Certain commercial disputes
With Connolly Suthers Townsville Lawyers, you get the legal representation that you deserve without the worry of paying legal costs in the event that you lose your case. Our compassionate, friendly team understand the value of excellent service when facing a legal problem and a difficult time. Work with the solicitors that understand you and prioritise your needs – work with Connolly Suthers.
How much does representation with Connolly Suthers cost?
All Connolly Suthers clients receive the absolute highest level of quality legal representation and advice available in the region. Generally the cost of our legal services will vary based on the time required for our legal team to work on your case and the extent of the case as a whole, unless it is one of our fixed-fee services.
Regardless, we believe that nobody should be denied justice as a result of limited finances and that’s why we offer no-win, no-fee services in a range of matters including:
- Traffic accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Public liability accidents
- Medical negligence claims
- Life insurance claims
- Superannuation claims
- Certain commercial disputes
With Connolly Suthers Townsville Lawyers, you get the legal representation that you deserve without the worry of paying legal costs in the event that you lose your case. Work with the lawyers that understand you and prioritise your needs – Connolly Suthers.
How do you charge? Will I need to pay upfront? What are your prices like?
Most legal services are charged in accordance with a costs agreement which is provided to you at the commencement of the matter. Usually this must be signed and returned before any work is completed. This includes work done in most areas such as family law, personal injury, large commercial and leasing work, criminal law and estate administration. From your first phone call, your family lawyer, criminal lawyer, personal injury or estate solicitors can walk you through these fees work.
There are fixed price services available for basic conveyancing, wills and enduring powers of attorney. No nasty surprises - just a team who are committed to the best outcome. Please contact our office for more information about these services.
Do you offer payment plans?
Generally, no. However, you should feel free to discuss your financial situation with the solicitor involved with your case, at your initial appointment at Connolly Suthers. We understand that moving through the legal system can get expensive - from your first phone call, our compassionate team will openly discuss fees and work in your best interests, in a timely manner, to achieve a positive outcome.
Do you certify documents? Do you have JPs available?
We usually only certify documents for clients of Connolly Suthers or in the course of matters in which we are involved. If you are looking to find a JP you can search for one here.
Do you hold relatives' documents in safe custody? What can you hold in safe custody?
For client's of Connolly Suthers we offer the service of storing in our safe custody original Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Certificates of Title, etc.
How are you involved with the Townsville Community?
The partners and staff of Connolly Suthers have long-standing ties throughout the local community. Over a large number of years we have supported various clubs and sporting teams in Townsville and in the Burdekin. We are regular supporters of Ronald McDonald House and the Vinnies foundation.
Find out more about our contributions to the local community here.
How do I contact Connolly Suthers?
You can call our Townsville QLD office on 07 4771 5664 during business hours.
Alternatively, submit an email enquiry to law@cosu.com.au and the Connolly Suthers team will endeavour to respond to your enquiry within one business day.
Where are your other offices located?
Our offices are located at 416 Flinders Street, Townsville and 180 Queen Street, Ayr.
We visit Cairns, Brisbane and Mount Isa as well as other regions throughout North Queensland by appointment.