Criminal Code
The criminal code is legislation in QLD that sets out the general principles of criminal responsibility. A criminal offence is a ‘legal wrong that can be followed by criminal proceedings and may result in punishment’ (Williams G, Textbook of Criminal Law (2nd ed, Stevens & Sons, 1983) p 27). The main difference between crimes and other legal wrongs is that crimes are punishable through criminal proceedings where sanctions can be imposed. The conduct is taken from the control of private individuals and regulated by the state. In QLD the Criminal Code is the main source of criminal law offences. The Criminal Code sets out all criminal offences in Queensland with a description of each and a maximum penalty.
