E-Petition

That an accused’s right for silence which is commonly invoked in
Queensland courts of law, diminishes the decision-making process for both
judge and jury when deciding upon suitable convictions and sentences.

Currently in Queensland criminal courts of law, it is the right of the
accused to not testify, whereas the witnesses (who are often also
victims) involved in the crime do not have this right. Whereas it is
unrealistic to grant other witnesses the right to silence, it is not
unrealistic to eradicate the accused’s right to silence.

We believe that those accused of a crime should be encouraged to
disclose, and be cross-examined on, all relevant information pertaining
to the motive, nature and circumstances of the crime.

This is backed by the United Nations Declaration of Basic Principles of
Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power, being, “to establish and
strengthen the means of detecting, prosecuting and sentencing those
guilty of crime”.

Your petitioner’s therefore request the House to remove the right for
silence in Queensland Criminal Court cases.