Sibley Lawyers
Sibley Lawyers is your trusted shield when facing criminal and traffic charges or false accusations. Are you facing criminal charges? Falsely accused? Don’t go into this complex legal issue alone. You deserve a team of specialist advocates who will fight for you. We ensure your future is not simply left to chance.
- Client-Centric Focus
- Relentless Advocacy
- Transparent Communication
- Specialised Expertise
What can we help you with?
Criminal Law
At Sibley Lawyers, our criminal lawyer team understands the anxiety and fear that comes with facing criminal charges. We are known for fighting for our clients and getting them the best outcomes
Traffic Law
When you're facing the complexities of traffic law, you need a dependable traffic lawyer in your corner, fighting to protect your rights and minimise the impact on your life.
Related Specialties
After many years of experience, we have come to learn that many of our criminal and traffic clients have related employment and family law matters requiring expert advice. To be able to provide bespoke solutions, we have arranged in-house specialists who can assist.
No matter the complexity of your case, Sibley Lawyers is equipped with the knowledge, experience, and dedication to fight for your rights and protect your future
Insider Knowledge, Your Advantage
Our experience within law enforcement gives us a unique edge. We understand the intricacies of investigations, the tactics used, and the potential pitfalls. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate the prosecution's moves and build a robust defence strategy tailored to your situation.
Compassionate Support, Fierce Defence
We understand that this is a stressful and emotional time. We offer not just legal expertise but also compassionate support throughout the process. You can rely on us to be your trusted advisors, guiding you through the complexities of the legal system with empathy and determination.
We Know What You're Going Through
Being investigated or charged with a crime is daunting. The uncertainty, the potential consequences… it can feel like your whole world is on the line.
False accusations can destroy your career and your reputation. You deserve a defence that understands the unique challenges you face.
At Sibley Lawyers, we understand. We’ve been there. Our team includes former police officers and barristers who know the system inside and out. We’ve seen the tactics used against you, and we know how to fight back.
But don't just take our word for it
Our Track Record Speaks for Itself
We don’t just promise results, we deliver them. We’ve secured acquittals, reduced charges, and protected the freedom and reputations of countless clients. But don’t just take our word for it. Read our client testimonials to see what our clients have to say about our dedication, expertise, and results.
FEATURED
Posted on Google Kieran Strongman Justin Sibley gave me my life back. In 2020, my Ex-wife began a 3 year assailment where she weaponised the domestic violence system for the purpose of controlling a property settlement. Had it not been for Justin and his team, she may have succeeded. Justin expertly dismantled the web of lies that she spun through countless court appearances at multiple locations- Domestic violence applications and applications to vary that went all the way to trial, as well as a criminal charge. Throughout these 3 years of hell, Justin was a godsend- He was calm, confident, and extremely knowledgeable. After being shellshocked, panicked, and devastated that this was happening to me, Justin got my head straight and educated me on the process and how we would deal with it. From the early days I felt confident that justice would prevail with Justin on my side. From Justins early communications with Police prosecutions, to his expert cross examination of the complainant and witnesses in Court, not once did I feel I would get anything other than a desirable outcome. One of the most memorable experiences in my life was watching and listening to Justins cross examinations- The way he would slowly and subtly lock someone into a version of events or a lie, then some time later, absolutely dismantle it in a way they just could not see coming- It was an absolute pleasure to watch. Justin did such an impeccable job in handling my matters, that not only did we beat the 'balance of probabilities'- but Justin destroyed it- All DV matters against me were found to be frivolous and vexatious, and the Magistrate was scathing of the Police and the 'aggrieved'/complainant. Jutin didnt just win, he didnt show the allegations 'probably didnt happen'- He proved that every single one of them did NOT happen. I can not see how any solicitor could have done a better job or got a better outcome than Justin did- It was a resounding win, to the point where Justin had costs above the scale awarded in my favour. This is exceptionally rare in DV/civil matters, and was an outstanding result for me- I got my life back without the financial devastation so many suffer having to finance their defence in these type of matters. Justins comprehensive and absolute win in these DV matters echoed through to my criminal charge which dragged on after the DV matters were dismissed- Justin was successful in obtaining a very rare 'permanent stay' of proceedings, based on his resounding win and total dismantling of the DV allegations. If you're up against it, talk to Justin. It's not just a job for him- I truly felt that Justin had my back, believed in me, and wanted to help me. Thank you Justin.Posted on Google Meah Davis I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional work Justin and the team did during an extremely difficult time. From the very beginning, they were not only professional and knowledgeable, but also incredibly compassionate and understanding. Their expertise and strategic thinking resulted in the best possible outcome for my case, something I didn't think was achievable. They were always available to answer my questions, explain the legal process in a way I could understand, and made me feel supported every step of the way. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a dedicated and skilled attorney.Posted on Google Timothy Wyer It's very rare, that you leave court with a smile on your face. Thank's to Justin and the team at Sibley Law. We got a win and some money back as well, I highly recommend them!Posted on Google Dallas Spillane Today I had Justin pull the best outcome one could imagine I'm at home tonight and at work tomorrow cause of his dedication to what he does and that got me the best outcome in court thank you JustinPosted on Google Kelly Jewell Highly recommend Sibley's Lawyers. Extremely professional. Their communication is excellent. Very thorough in their approach and attention to detail.Posted on Google Marama Montgomery Justin, Nick, and the entire team at Sibley Lawyers were absolutely phenomenal in handling my legal matter. Their expertise, dedication, and professionalism made a challenging situation much more manageable. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, they provided unwavering support, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way. Not only were they highly knowledgeable in their field, but they also demonstrated genuine care and concern for my well-being throughout the process. They took the time to listen to my concerns, explain complex legal concepts in a clear and understandable manner, and always kept me informed and updated on the progress of my case. Their attention to detail, strategic approach, and relentless pursuit of justice yielded a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. I am immensely grateful for their hard work, diligence, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible result for me. I cannot recommend Justin, Nick, and the team at Sibley Lawyers highly enough. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further—they are truly exceptional. Thank you, Sibley Lawyers, for your outstanding service and support during a challenging time.Posted on Google Mitch Hetherington Highly recommendedPosted on Google Caelon Woodward Good team, would recommend for stuff like speeding offences.Posted on Google Sara Christofis I highly recommend Justin and Nick and the team at Sibley Lawyers. From my initial consultation I felt comfortable. They were professional, approachable and were able to achieve a far better outcome at Court than I was expecting.Posted on Google Carson Harvey Sibley Lawyers represented me with my work cover claim. After a two year fight with work cover and my employer, Sibley Lawyers came through for me with a win. I can’t thank them enough!!!
Experience and Expertise That Makes a Difference
We’re not a generalist law firm. We are a specialist criminal defence firm.
Unmatched Advocacy
We've run complex trials and have argued cases at the highest levels. Your case won't be a learning experience for us – it will be a battle we're able and prepared to win.
Police Insight
Our former law enforcement and prosecutors understand the tactics and pressures used in investigations. We use that knowledge to build the strongest possible defence.
Barrister-Level Representation
Our team includes former barristers with a proven track record of success in court. You get the same standard of representation as the most elite legal professionals.
Our Specialist Services
Whether you’re facing accusations of a minor altercation or a more serious assault, we’ll work relentlessly to protect your rights and mitigate the potential consequences. We have experience handling cases involving both simple assault and aggravated offences, including those involving domestic violence or the use of weapons.
From possession to trafficking and manufacturing, drug charges can have severe repercussions. We understand the complexities of drug laws and will meticulously examine the evidence against you, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Allegations of sexual assault or misconduct are incredibly sensitive and require a compassionate yet firm approach. We’ll provide discreet and dedicated representation, ensuring your privacy is protected while we vigorously defend your rights.
In Queensland, Domestic Violence Orders are civil cases sought by police or individuals. Sibley Lawyers specializes in defending, negotiating, and representing clients, ensuring fair outcomes in cases of genuine claims or false allegations.
These offences, under sections 418 and 409 of the Criminal Code, include break and enter, deception-based entry, and robbery, which involves violence and carries a 14-year penalty, requiring District Court proceedings.
Property crimes like theft, fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft can lead to harsh penalties. We’ll investigate the circumstances surrounding the accusations, challenge the evidence, and work towards the most favourable outcome possible.
Commonwealth fraud offences are serious due to detection challenges. Examples include failing to update Centrelink on employment changes, leading to wrongful payments. As expert advocates, we’ve helped many clients avoid jail.
These matters, privately prosecuted by WorkCover or the Insurance Commission, involve serious fraud detection challenges. Examples include exaggerating injuries or work incapacity. Our expert representation ensures a fair outcome, whether defending or sentencing.
Queensland and Commonwealth laws target proceeds of crime, often leading to asset seizures in serious cases like trafficking. If asset risk or confiscation proceedings arise, consult us early for favorable resolutions.
Queensland and Commonwealth laws criminalize money laundering, involving either direct intent or reckless involvement due to partial knowledge or suspicion. Sibley Lawyers, experienced in these prosecutions, works to keep you out of jail.
Individuals and businesses accused of financial crimes like fraud, embezzlement, or tax evasion need expert legal counsel. We specialize in complex financial regulations and will create a tailored defense for your case.
The Commonwealth Crimes Act 1914 and Criminal Code 1995 add complexity for Queensland clients facing offences on Commonwealth land or under the Criminal Code. Sibley Lawyers has extensive experience defending such charges, both standalone and alongside Queensland offences.
Facing professional discipline can jeopardise your career and reputation. Sibley Lawyers specialises in defending professionals across various fields, offering expert legal representation to safeguard your livelihood and secure the best outcome.
In Queensland, weapons licensing issues can affect employment or sports. Domestic Violence orders or certain offences may lead to licence suspension or revocation, with some offences carrying mandatory jail sentences.
If you believe a legal error or unjust decision occurred, we can guide you through the appeals process. Our team will review the trial record, identify appeal grounds, and present compelling arguments to overturn the ruling.
Sibley Lawyers specializes in defending professionals in fields like healthcare, law, and policing. We handle disciplinary proceedings, professional misconduct trials, and issues with Blue Cards and security licences.
Expert legal defence for individuals and businesses facing environmental protection charges, ensuring compliance with laws and minimising penalties. Protect your reputation and environmental standing with skilled legal guidance.
Legal representation for individuals accused of trespassing, defending your rights and helping resolve disputes, whether involving private property or restricted areas. Get expert advice to protect your future.
Defending clients facing charges of perjury or contempt of court, protecting your rights and working toward the best possible legal outcome. We handle serious allegations of dishonesty or court misconduct.
Skilled defence against computer hacking charges, navigating complex laws surrounding cybercrime. We provide robust legal representation, working toward clearing your name and securing a favourable outcome.
Expert legal defence for individuals accused of involvement in prostitution, sex slavery, or human trafficking. Understand your rights and work toward a fair resolution of serious charges.
Legal support for businesses and individuals facing breaches of the Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S) Act, addressing violations and mitigating potential consequences. Protect your workplace and ensure compliance with safety laws.
A drunk or drugged driving charge can result in serious consequences, including licence disqualification, fines, and potential jail time. We will carefully examine the evidence against you, scrutinise police procedures, and fight for the most favourable outcome, whether that’s reduced charges, minimised penalties, or acquittal.
Accusations of reckless driving can result from a variety of behaviours, such as excessive speeding, aggressive manoeuvres, or ignoring traffic signals. We’ll investigate the circumstances surrounding your case, challenge witness testimony, and present a strong defence to protect your driving record and your freedom.
Losing your licence can have a major impact. We’ll guide you through reinstatement and hearings, aiming for a fair outcome, especially in repeat disqualified driving offences, to avoid imprisonment.
A work licence allows individuals to drive for work purposes despite a licence disqualification. Sibley Lawyers provides expert legal representation to help secure your driving privileges and protect your livelihood.
If accusations threaten your reputation or livelihood, or you are unfairly suspended or terminated as a result, we will fight to protect your interests. We understand the devastating impact losing your employment can have at such a precarious time, and we will fight tirelessly to assist. This includes:
Family LAW
Whether your separation is amicable or contentious, we’ll provide clear legal guidance and representation. We’ll help you navigate property division, spousal support, and child custody arrangements, ensuring your rights and interests are protected.
We understand the importance of protecting your relationship with your children. We’ll advocate for your parental rights, helping you establish fair and reasonable custody and support arrangements that prioritise the best interests of your children.
If you’re a domestic violence victim, we’ll help secure restraining orders and ensure your safety. If facing false allegations affecting child access, we’ll fight to protect your rights.
Protecting your assets and financial future is crucial. We’ll help you draft and negotiate Binding Financial Agreements that clearly define property rights and financial obligations in the event of a separation or divorce.
Resisting applications by the Department to unfairly drive a wedge between you and your children is a specialist area requiring steadfast support.
A parenting plan is a crucial step for parents navigating separation or divorce, ensuring stability and well-being for children. Sibley Lawyers offers expert guidance in drafting, modifying, and enforcing parental agreements that prioritise the children’s future.
Sibley Lawyers provides expert legal support for consent orders, guiding separating couples through property settlements, child custody, spousal maintenance, and more. Ensure clear, fair, and lasting agreements for your future.
Expert legal support for court hearings, offering tailored strategies for family, criminal, and employment law cases. Gain confidence through clear communication, unwavering advocacy, and personalised, strategic legal guidance.
Resolve family disputes through mediation, focusing on collaboration and preserving relationships. Our experienced team guides you to fair solutions, prioritising your family’s well-being and ensuring a smooth resolution process.
Arbitration offers a private, efficient way to resolve family disputes with greater control, privacy, and faster results than traditional court proceedings. At Sibley Lawyers, we guide you through the arbitration process, ensuring you receive tailored legal support every step of the way.
If you’re in custody, we’ll work tirelessly to secure your bail and get you home. With many charges now reversing the presumption of bail, we ensure a strong application with supporting material.
While a trial can be powerful, strategic negotiation often leads to better outcomes. Our experienced negotiators excel in plea bargaining, aiming to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or avoid a conviction.
If you plead guilty or are found guilty, we’ll advocate for a fair sentence, presenting mitigating factors and highlighting your positive contributions. We believe in second chances and will fight for your future.
Your Case, Your Future. Our Priority.
You’re not just another case file to us. You’re a person with a life, and a future. We invest time in understanding your individual situation and crafting a personalised strategy to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
You’ll have direct access to your lawyer. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way, answer your questions honestly, and fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.

Director

General Counsel

Senior Associate (Employment)
Frequently Asked Questions
These FAQs are designed to help you understand your legal rights and options across our core practice areas — criminal law, traffic law, employment law, and our dedicated Essential Services Team. If your question isn’t answered here, contact us directly for a free consultation.
About Sibley Lawyers
What makes Sibley Lawyers Different?
Sibley Lawyers is led by Justin Sibley, a former Police Officer working in investigative areas including sexual offences involving adults and children, and major and organised crime. He studied law before becoming a Police Officer and was admitted as a Barrister in 2001. He is a trained and practiced specialist advocate, and has built the firm to ensure clients receive a level of specialised advocacy that they can expect from a Barrister. The firm employs talented and experienced advocates to ensure our clients get the best possible representation.
What areas of law does Sibley Lawyers practise in?
Sibley Lawyers is a Queensland law firm specialised in and practising in criminal law, traffic law, and employment law. As part of the employment and criminal defence practice, we provide a dedicated Essential Services Team providing specialist legal support to Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers, Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics, corrective services officers, and other public sector front line workers.
Where is Sibley Lawyers located, and which courts do you appear in?
Sibley Lawyers is based in Brisbane, Ipswich, Caboolture, Cleveland and Southport and appears in courts and tribunals across Queensland, including the Magistrates Court, District Court, and Supreme Court of Queensland, as well as the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission and Fair Work Commission. We act for clients from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, Beenleigh, Caboolture, and further afield being regularly in Townsville, Gladstone, Cairns and the like.
Why should I choose Sibley Lawyers over another firm?
Sibley Lawyers combines genuine expertise in Queensland criminal, traffic, and employment law with a personal, client-focused approach. Unlike other firms, you have ready access to the Director, and we pride ourselves on being available and responding to our clients. We speak plainly — you won’t be left confused about what is happening in your matter. We understand the specific pressures facing essential services workers, public sector employees, and individuals facing criminal charges, and we bring that understanding to every matter we take on.
We offer a free initial consultation so you can get clear advice before committing. Our team has appeared in courts across South East Queensland and has a track record of strong outcomes for clients across our practice areas.
Free consultation: Contact us at sibleylawyers.com.au or call (07) 3180 0120 to discuss your matter at no cost.
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
Yes. Sibley Lawyers offers a free initial consultation for all new enquiries. This gives you the opportunity to explain your situation, understand your legal options, and decide whether to engage us — without any obligation or cost.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
We understand that legal matters are often urgent. We aim to offer initial consultations as quickly as possible, including urgent appointments where circumstances require it. Contact us by phone or through our website and our team will respond promptly.
Can Sibley Lawyers help me if I live outside Brisbane?
Yes. Whilst our offices are in Brisbane, Caboolture, Ipswich, Cleveland and Southport, we act for clients across Queensland and regularly appear in courts throughout the region, including Beenleigh, Caboolture, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Townsville, Gladstone Whitsundays, Beaudesert and surrounding Magistrates Courts. Contact us to discuss your matter regardless of your location.
Criminal Law
I have been charged with a criminal offence. What should I do first?
The most important thing you can do immediately after being charged is to contact a criminal defence lawyer before your first court appearance. Do not discuss the details of your matter with police without legal advice, and do not assume that being cooperative will improve your outcome — it may not.
A criminal lawyer can review the police brief of evidence, advise you on your options (including whether to plead guilty or not guilty), represent you in court, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your specific circumstances.
What to say to police: You are not required to answer police questions beyond providing your name and address. Exercise your right to silence and contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Do I have to answer police questions?
In Queensland, you have the right to silence. You are not required to answer police questions beyond providing your name and address when lawfully required to do so. Exercising your right to silence cannot be used as evidence of guilt. The safest approach is to clearly state: ‘I wish to exercise my right to silence’ and then contact a lawyer before participating in any interview.
What types of criminal charges does Sibley Lawyers handle?
Sibley Lawyers handles a wide range of criminal matters in Queensland, including:
- Assault (common assault, grievous bodily harm, serious assault)
- Domestic violence and protection order matters
- Drug offences (possession, supply, trafficking)
- Sexual assault and sexual offences
- Weapons licensing and weapons offences
- Fraud, including Centrelink fraud and insurance fraud
- Money laundering and proceeds of crime
- Commonwealth offences
- Professional discipline and conduct matters
- Social security offences
What is the difference between a plea of guilty and a plea of not guilty?
A plea of guilty means you accept that you committed the offence as charged. A plea of not guilty means the prosecution must prove the charge beyond reasonable doubt at a contested hearing or trial. The right plea for your situation depends on the evidence, the strength of any defences available, and your personal circumstances. This is one of the most important decisions in any criminal matter and should only be made after receiving proper legal advice.
Can I get a criminal matter dealt with without a conviction being recorded?
In some circumstances, yes. Under section 19 of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld), a court may discharge a person without recording a conviction even after a finding of guilt. This is more likely for first-time offenders, where the offence is at the lower end of the range, and where strong mitigating circumstances exist. Whether this outcome is achievable in your matter depends on the specific facts and must be assessed by a lawyer. The Court has a discretion not to record a conviction, provided it does not impose a sentence of imprisonment.
What happens at my first court appearance (mention)?
At a first mention, the court formally notes the charge, and sets a future date for the matter to proceed. In most cases, you will not be required to enter a plea on the first or even subsequent occasions. Having a lawyer represent you at mention is important — it allows the matter to be properly managed from the outset, including obtaining the police brief of evidence and negotiating with the prosecution if appropriate.
I have been charged with assaulting or obstructing a police officer. What are my options?
Charges involving police officers range from obstruct police under the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (Qld) through to serious assault under section 340 of the Criminal Code. These are serious matters. The prosecution must prove that the officer was acting lawfully at the time — if the officer’s conduct was outside their authority, this may provide a complete or partial defence. Contact Sibley Lawyers for specific advice on your situation.
Traffic Law
I have been charged with drink driving. What happens next?
Drink driving charges in Queensland are serious and carry mandatory disqualification periods. The consequences depend on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), whether it is a first or repeat offence, and whether any aggravating circumstances apply. You will be required to appear in the Magistrates Court. Having a lawyer represent you can make a significant difference to the period of disqualification imposed and whether any fine or imprisonment applies.
Important: If you are a QPS officer, QAS paramedic, or hold a security clearance, a drink driving conviction can have serious consequences for your employment beyond the court-imposed penalty. Seek legal advice before your first court date.
Will I lose my licence if charged with drink driving?
In most cases, yes — drink driving convictions in Queensland carry mandatory licence disqualification. The length of disqualification depends on your BAC reading and prior history. However, in certain circumstances you may be eligible to apply for a Work Licence or a Special Hardship Order, which can allow you to continue driving for work or essential purposes during the disqualification period.
What is a Work Licence and am I eligible?
A Work Licence is a special licence available to eligible drink driving offenders in Queensland that allows them to drive for work purposes during a period of disqualification. To be eligible, you must need to drive for work (not just to get to work), earn income from driving, not have a prior drink driving history within 5 years, and your BAC must be below 0.15. Eligibility is assessed against specific criteria in the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld). You must apply for a Work Licence before your court date — you cannot apply after conviction. Sibley Lawyers handles Work Licence applications across South East Queensland.
What is a Special Hardship Order?
A Special Hardship Order (SHO) is available to eligible drivers who have had their licence suspended (not disqualified) due to demerit points or a high-speed offence. It allows continued driving under strict conditions — typically work, medical, and essential family travel. SHOs are assessed by the court and require evidence of genuine hardship. Sibley Lawyers can advise on your eligibility and prepare a strong application.
I was caught driving unlicensed. What are the penalties?
Driving unlicensed in Queensland carries mandatory minimum disqualification periods and can result in fines or imprisonment depending on whether the offence is a first or repeat matter. If your licence was already disqualified at the time, the penalties are more severe. Legal representation at your court date can make a significant difference to the outcome, particularly in reducing the disqualification periods where possible, and avoiding jail in some cases.
Can I have a long-term disqualification removed?
Yes, in some circumstances. Under section 131 of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld), a person who has been disqualified for 2 or more years may be able to apply to the court for removal of the disqualification after serving a minimum period. This is not automatic — you must make a formal application and demonstrate that removal is appropriate having regard to all relevant factors. Sibley Lawyers can advise whether you are eligible and assist with the application.
Employment Law
I have been dismissed from my job. Do I have legal options?
If you have been dismissed from employment, you may have several legal options depending on the circumstances. These include an unfair dismissal claim, a general protections claim (if your dismissal involved the exercise of a workplace right or was for a prohibited reason), or other claims under state or federal legislation. Time limits apply — for unfair dismissal and general protections claims in the Fair Work jurisdiction, you generally have 21 days from the date of dismissal to lodge a claim. Contact Sibley Lawyers promptly to avoid missing your deadline.
What is the difference between unfair dismissal and general protections?
Unfair dismissal is where a person is dismissed in a manner that was harsh, unjust, or unreasonable. General protections applies where a dismissal — or any adverse action — was taken because the person exercised a workplace right (such as raising a complaint, taking sick leave, or participating in union activity). General protections can apply even where no dismissal has occurred — for example, a demotion, pay reduction, or change to duties. The two regimes have different eligibility requirements, time limits, and remedies. Sibley Lawyers can advise which applies to your situation.
What counts as 'adverse action' in a general protections claim?
Adverse action includes dismissal, injury to employment, alteration of an employee’s position to their detriment, discrimination, and refusal to employ. Where an employer takes adverse action because an employee exercised a workplace right (such as making a complaint, taking leave, or engaging in union activity), this may give rise to a general protections claim under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth).
I am being investigated for misconduct at work. What should I do?
Do not participate in a disciplinary interview or respond to allegations without first obtaining legal advice. You are entitled to a support person at any interview. What you say — and how you say it — in a misconduct investigation can significantly affect the outcome. Sibley Lawyers acts for employees facing misconduct investigations across the public and private sectors, including essential services workers subject to internal investigations running parallel to criminal proceedings.
My employer has not paid me correctly. Can I make a claim?
Yes. Underpayment of wages, allowances, penalty rates, or entitlements is a breach of your employment contract or the applicable award or enterprise agreement. Claims can be made through the Fair Work Commission, the Fair Work Ombudsman, or through the courts. Sibley Lawyers can advise on the appropriate avenue for your claim and assist in recovering what you are owed.
I have been bullied or harassed at work. What are my options?
Workplace bullying and harassment can give rise to a number of legal remedies, including an anti-bullying application to the Fair Work Commission (where the bullying is ongoing), a workers compensation claim, or action under discrimination legislation. Where the conduct amounts to sexual harassment, additional protections apply under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) and the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld). Sibley Lawyers can help you understand your options and the most appropriate course of action.
What is a restraint of trade clause and is it enforceable?
A restraint of trade clause is a contractual provision that restricts what you can do after leaving an employer — for example, preventing you from working for a competitor or approaching former clients. In Queensland, these clauses are only enforceable if they are reasonable in terms of geographic scope, duration, and the activity restricted. Sibley Lawyers can review your employment contract and advise whether a restraint applies to you and whether it is likely to be enforceable.
Essential Services — QPS, QAS & Public Sector
What is the Sibley Lawyers Essential Services Team?
The Essential Services Team is a dedicated unit within Sibley Lawyers that provides specialist legal support to Queensland Police Service officers, Queensland Ambulance Service officers and paramedics, corrective services officers, firefighters, health workers, teachers, and other public sector employees. We understand the unique pressures facing essential services workers — including the intersection of criminal proceedings and internal disciplinary processes — and we provide advice tailored to that context.
I am a QPS or QCS officer and have been charged with a criminal offence. What should I do?
As a QPS or QCS officer, a criminal charge triggers both criminal proceedings and internal disciplinary processes. These are separate processes but the outcome of one can affect the other. It is critical that you obtain legal advice before participating in any interview — whether with police or through the misconduct process — and before making any statement. Sibley Lawyers acts for QPS officers in exactly this situation and understands the specific risks and obligations involved.
Important for QPS officers: In a criminal interview, you have the same right to silence as any other person. Obtain legal advice before any interview.
I am a QPS or QCS officer and I have been accused of assault by a member of the public. What happens?
Complaints against police officers involving alleged assault are taken seriously and are typically investigated by the Queensland Police Service’s Ethical Standards Command (ESC) or the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) or the Ethical Standards Group for Corrections. Depending on the severity of the allegation, criminal charges may also be laid. Sibley Lawyers has experience advising QPS and QCS officers in this situation and can represent you in both the criminal proceedings and any internal disciplinary process.
My employer (a government agency) is seeking to recover an overpayment from my salary. Can they do this?
Government employers in Queensland have the ability to recover salary overpayments, but this is subject to legal limits on the amount that can be deducted from any single pay period and the process that must be followed. You are entitled to be notified and to respond before deductions are made. In some circumstances, particularly where the overpayment was caused by an error on the employer’s part and you changed your position in reliance on the payments, recovery may not be appropriate. Sibley Lawyers can advise on your rights and whether the recovery is being conducted lawfully.
I work in health or education and am facing a professional conduct investigation. Can Sibley Lawyers help?
Yes. Sibley Lawyers acts for professionals across the public sector — including health workers, teachers, and corrective services officers — who are facing professional conduct or disciplinary investigations. We have also acted for a number of nurses and other professionals facing criminal charges related to their employment, including dealing with regulatory proceedings in the QCAT and QIRC. These processes often run alongside criminal or employment proceedings and require careful management. We can advise on your obligations, assist in preparing your response, and represent you at any hearing.
I have been served with a Police Protection Notice or Domestic Violence Protection Order. What does this mean?
A Police Protection Notice (PPN) is an immediate short-term order issued by police at the scene of a domestic violence incident. It can impose conditions including exclusion from the family home, no contact with the aggrieved, and weapons restrictions. A Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) is a court-issued order that can have similar and longer-term conditions. Both can have serious consequences — including for employment, weapons licensing, and living arrangements. Sibley Lawyers can advise on your options, including whether to contest the order or seek an amendment to its conditions.
Working With Sibley Lawyers
How much does it cost to use Sibley Lawyers?
Legal costs depend on the complexity and nature of your matter. Sibley Lawyers provides a clear fee estimate at the outset so you understand the likely costs before committing. We offer a free initial consultation to all new clients, which means you can get legal advice and a fee estimate before you decide to proceed.
What should I bring to my first consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation, bring any documents you have received — court notices, police documentation, employment correspondence, or termination letters. If you have been charged, bring any charge sheets or court date documents. The more information you can provide, the better placed we are to advise you accurately from the outset.
Can Sibley Lawyers represent me in the District Court or Supreme Court?
Yes. While many matters are dealt with in the Magistrates Court, Sibley Lawyers appears in the District Court and Supreme Court of Queensland on a daily basis. For jury trials and more complex matters, our Director can run these trials, and we also work closely with experienced barristers to ensure the strongest possible representation at every level.
How do I contact Sibley Lawyers?
You can contact Sibley Lawyers by phone, email, or through our website. We aim to respond to all enquiries promptly, and urgent matters are prioritised.
- Phone: (07) 3180 0120
- Website: www.sibleylawyers.com.au
- Email: [email protected]
Free consultation: Call or contact us online to book your free initial consultation. There is no obligation and no cost.
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