Official Corruption charges in Qld
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Being investigated or charged with official corruption is extremely serious. These matters often involve allegations of abuse of public office, improper benefit, or misconduct connected with official duties, and are commonly investigated by specialist units or integrity bodies.
Charges of official corruption can carry severe penalties, long-term reputational damage, and career-ending consequences.
If you are charged, seeking early advice from an experienced criminal defence lawyer will make a difference to the outcome. Call us, or fill in our Quick Enquiry form to receive a link to our free guide, 16 Things You Need to Do Now if Charged with a Criminal Offence.
What is official corruption under Qld law?
Official corruption is an offence under section 87 of the Criminal Code 1899 (Qld).
In broad terms, the offence applies where a public officer or person acting in an official capacity corruptly:
asks for, receives, or agrees to receive a benefit, or
confers, offers, or agrees to confer a benefit on another person,
in connection with the performance (or non-performance) of their official functions.
The offence is directed at misuse of public office or official power for improper purposes.
Who can be charged with official corruption?
The offence can apply to a wide range of people, including:
police officers
public servants
local government officers
statutory office holders
persons performing public or official functions
It can also apply to third parties who offer or provide benefits to influence an official.
What does ‘corruptly’ mean?
Whether conduct is ‘corrupt’ is often the central issue in these cases.
The prosecution must prove more than poor judgment or administrative error. Allegations often focus on whether the conduct involved:
dishonesty
improper purpose
abuse of position
departure from lawful or proper processes
These issues are highly fact-specific and frequently contested.
What is the penalty for official corruption in Qld?
Official corruption is a serious indictable offence.
Maximum penalty: 7 years imprisonment
In addition to any sentence imposed by the court, a conviction may result in:
loss of employment or office
prohibition from holding public positions
damage to professional reputation
disciplinary or regulatory proceedings
Common situations leading to official corruption charges
Charges may arise from allegations such as:
accepting money or gifts in exchange for favourable treatment
misuse of confidential information
interfering with investigations or decision-making
improper exercise of discretion
assisting others to obtain unlawful advantages
Investigations are often lengthy and complex and may involve covert operations, financial analysis, or recorded communications.
If you are charged or being investigated by police, seeking early advice will make a difference to the outcome.
Call us, or fill in our Quick Enquiry form to receive a link to our free guide, 16 Things You Need to Do Now if Charged with a Criminal Offence.
FAQ - Official Corruption in Qld
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Official corruption involves abusing a public position or official role to gain an improper benefit or advantage for yourself or someone else.
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Not always. While the offence commonly applies to public officers, others may be charged if they are involved in offering or providing corrupt benefits.
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No. Misconduct or disciplinary breaches may be dealt with internally, whereas official corruption is a criminal offence requiring proof beyond reasonable doubt.
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Yes.
Defences often focus on intent, whether the conduct was truly corrupt, whether any benefit was improper, and whether the prosecution can prove the required elements.
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A criminal defence lawyer can:
advise during investigations or compulsory interviews
assess exposure before charges are laid
challenge the legal characterisation of the conduct
negotiate with prosecutors or integrity bodies
prepare a defence for trial or submissions on penalty
These matters require strategic handling from the outset.
Charged with official corruption in Qld?
If you are under investigation or have been charged with official corruption, do not delay in seeking legal advice. These cases are complex and often involve significant personal and professional risk.
Call our corruption lawyers in Brisbane on (07) 3012 6531 or fill in our Quick Enquiry form for a confidential discussion today.