Coercive Control

Have you been charged and need strategic advice from a criminal defence lawyer in Qld?

If you have been charged with coercive control, obtaining advice early on from experienced criminal lawyers is critical.

What is Coercive Control?

coercive control under Chapter 29A of the Criminal Code (Qld) is a serious criminal offence in Queensland. As of 26 May 2025, it is now a standalone offence that can result in up to 14 years’ imprisonment.

This offence recognises the long-term harm caused by patterns of abuse and control in intimate or family relationships.

Our experienced Brisbane Criminal Lawyers have a proven track record defending domestic violence-related charges. We understand the complexity and emotional intensity of these matters and have formed strategies over the years of our experience for the best prospects of successfully defending this type of charge.

Under section 334C of the Criminal Code, a person commits coercive control if they:

  • Are an adult;

  • Are or were in a domestic relationship with the other person;

  • Engaged in domestic violence on more than one occasion;

  • Intended to coerce or control the other person; and

  • The behaviour was reasonably likely to cause harm, even if no harm actually occurred

The behaviour must be viewed in the context of the entire relationship, not as isolated incidents.

What Behaviours Can Amount to Coercive Control?

The law defines domestic violence broadly. It includes acts that are:

  • Emotionally or psychologically abusive

  • Economically abusive

  • Threatening, intimidating, or controlling

  • Physically or sexually abusive

  • Designed to isolate or dominate

Examples include:

  • Tracking someone's location or online activity

  • Restricting access to money or employment

  • Preventing contact with family and friends

  • Verbal threats, intimidation, or humiliation

  • Monitoring phone calls or texts

  • Repeated stalking or harassment.

What is the penalty?

If convicted, the maximum penalty for coercive control is 14 years’ imprisonment. Courts take this charge seriously given its focus on long-term patterns of abuse.

Sentencing may consider:

  • The length and severity of the behaviour

  • Psychological harm caused to the complainant

  • Any prior history of domestic violence or breaches

What are defence strategies for a coercive control charge?

At Ashworth Lawyers we consider all options for the best outcome. Strategies or arguments may include:

  • Arguing the behaviour was not abusive or controlling when viewed in context.

  • The prosecution must prove you intended to coerce or control. Intention is a complex mental element, and may be contested if the behaviour had legitimate reasons (e.g. care arrangements, legal disputes, safety concerns)

  • The law allows a defence where the course of conduct was reasonable in the circumstances of the relationship

Contact us to discuss the facts of your case with our our criminal defence lawyers Brisbane.