Commonwealth Games: What You Should Know From A Criminal Law Perspective
Article written by Shelby Smith
The Gold Coast Commonwealth Games will run from the 4th of April 2018 to the 15th of April 2018.
If you are attending the Commonwealth Games, it will be important to take care and act appropriately. Gold Coast residents should also be aware of this information, as the Commonwealth Games will affect the entire Gold Coast community.
Increased Police Presence on the Gold Coast
Firstly, you should expect an increased police presence before, during and immediately after the Commonwealth Games.
This increased police presence may mean an increase in police charges. It is important to be aware of this and act accordingly. This is particularly relevant to those attending events during the Commonwealth Games. You should expect a large number of police and security personnel in and around the venues.
It is important to act appropriately so that you are not at risk of being charged with an offence.
The next thing you should be aware of is the fact that Police are likely to be monitoring bars, nightclubs and other licensed venues closely. This is in relation to drug related crimes / activity, violence and drunk and disorderly behaviour.
You should expect the Queensland Police Service to be vigilant in stopping these behaviours. As such, it is expected that the Police will charge a large number of people with these types of offences.
If you are charged with an offence
The next matter to consider is what to do if you have been charged with an offence. It is important that you seek legal advice immediately. If you contact a lawyer, they will provide advice as to what you should do next. Importantly, they will tell you what to do if the police approach you in relation to the charge and will explain the court process to you.
Potts Lawyers has no association with the Commonwealth Games or GOLDOC and this article is the provision of factual statements authored by Potts Lawyers.
Talk to Potts Lawyers
If you do require legal advice please call our office for a free 20 minute consultation or alternatively please seek competent legal advice.
Contact our experienced lawyers on (07) 3221 4999 in Brisbane or (07) 5532 3133 on the Gold Coast.
Please note: This advice is for general background information only and is not intended as legal advice. To obtain legal advice you can rely on, you must contact a lawyer who can advise you on the basis of your personal circumstances.