There are some examples of (mostly sexual) offences that have 20 year and 25-year maximum penalties.
#The imposition of a life sentence is an example of code#
The Criminal Code (Qld) generally sets maximum penalties at 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 14 years’ imprisonment, and life imprisonment for the most serious offences. Examples of other Queensland Acts that contain specific offence types include the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld) (weapon offences) and the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld) (traffic offences). Drug offences are created by the Drugs Misuse Act 1986 (Qld). The Criminal Code (Qld) creates all of Queensland’s most serious offences, except for drug offences. For example, for cases sentenced in the Magistrates Courts, a 3-year limit generally applies. It can mean that the actual penalty available to a court is below the maximum penalty. There is also procedural legislation (discussed below).
There are different Acts of Parliament (written laws, also known as ‘legislation’) that create offences and set the maximum penalties that apply. They must comply with parole conditions for the rest of their life, and can be returned to prison at any time if parole is suspended or cancelled by the Parole Board Queensland.
The Board makes the decision.Ī prisoner serving a life sentence will remain on parole for the rest of his or her life. The prisoner applies for parole to the Parole Board Queensland. Being eligible does not mean release on parole is guaranteed. A judge can increase it, by setting a later parole eligibility date.Ī prisoner is not eligible to be released on parole until they have served the mandatory non-parole period or longer period set by the court.