This practical handbook navigates the legal complexities in representing people suffering from a mental illness, intellectual disability or acquired brain injury who have been charged with a criminal offence in Queensland. Drawing on Dan Toombs' experience, including through establishment of Australia's first criminal law service for disabled people, it provides both analysis and practical guidance in a critical area of legal practice. Disability and the Queensland Criminal Justice System addresses the fundamental rights of those with disability engaging with Queensland criminal law. Addressing the intersection of criminal law and mental disability is important because the consequences for individuals can be severe even where offences are minor. Significantly, being categorised as having a relevant disability leads to offenders being dealt with by a court with substantial powers. Lawyers who come into contact with affected individuals in this context will be better equipped to understand, promote, defend and protect those rights through their advice and advocacy.
Case workers, medical practitioners and those supporting disabled people facing the criminal justice system will gain insight into rights and obligations under the Mental Health Act 2000 (Qld). The powerful combination of the author's experience and support from The Advocacy and Support Centre Inc (TASC) results in a handbook that can help change people's lives.