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Author: Adam Veneran

Potts Lawyers > Articles posted by Adam Veneran

“Post and Boast Laws” – Changes to Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle

“Post and Boast Laws” – Changes to the Charge of Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle The prevalence of offenders ‘boasting’ about their criminal behaviour on social media has long sparked societal debate. In response, the Queensland Government introduced legislative changes to address this behaviour and put offenders on notice. These changes specifically target offences involving the unauthorised use of motor vehicles. A person may record themselves driving dangerously and publish the footage on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook or Snapchat. Since changes to Queensland law commenced in 2024, publishing this content can result in further legal consequences. These...

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Using a Carriage Service to Menace, Harass or Cause Offence

Using a Carriage Service to Menace, Harass or Cause Offence The use of mobile phones, social media and online messaging has made communication easier than ever. However, communications made online can also result in criminal charges. Section 474.17 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) makes it an offence to use a carriage service in a way that reasonable people would regard, in all the circumstances, as menacing, harassing or offensive. The offence can apply to a wide range of communications, including text messages, emails, social media posts, private messages, photographs, videos and telephone calls. The maximum penalty for the offence is 5 years...

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Can I Change the Conditions of My Bail in Queensland?

If you are currently on bail for a criminal matter in Queensland and are considering a bail variation in Queensland, you will have signed a bail undertaking. This is a legal document that sets out the conditions you must follow while your case is before the court. Sometimes circumstances change, and it becomes difficult to comply with your bail conditions. You may have moved house, changed jobs, or developed new personal obligations that affect your ability to meet your current requirements. If this happens, you may be able to apply for a bail variation in Queensland. This article explains how bail variations work...

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Daniel’s Law in Queensland: What Reportable Offenders Need to Know

In August 2025, the Crisafulli Government introduced Daniel’s Law Queensland, creating the state’s first public child sex offender register and significantly changing how reportable offenders are monitored and disclosed. Named in memory of Daniel Morcombe, the legislation amends the Child Protection (Offender Reporting and Offender Prohibition Order) Act 2004 and introduces a new three-tier public disclosure system for reportable offenders. For anyone currently subject to reporting obligations, or who may become subject to them in the future, Daniel’s Law Queensland represents a major shift. It expands police powers, increases the circumstances in which personal information may be disclosed to the public,...

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Solicitor vs Barrister: Understanding Criminal Defence Roles in Queensland

If you have been charged with a criminal offence in Queensland, you may hear terms like solicitor, barrister, or counsel. It’s common to feel unsure about who does what. Both solicitors and barristers play essential roles in the Queensland criminal justice system, but their responsibilities differ significantly. Understanding these differences helps you know how your criminal defence team operates and when it may be necessary to engage both a solicitor and a barrister. This article explains: The difference between a criminal solicitor and a barrister in Queensland When you might need to brief a barrister Practical examples of how both roles work...

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