A charge of Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) is serious, must be dealt with in the District Court, and can ordinarily result in imprisonment, along with a criminal record that can impact your employment, travel opportunities and reputation.
This page will help you understand how this offence is defined in Western Australia, the penalties it can carry, and how Chambers Legal can assist you in navigating the charge.
It is an offence to cause grievous bodily harm to another.
Grievous bodily harm means any bodily injury of such a nature as to endanger, or be likely to endanger life, or to cause, or be likely to cause, permanent injury to health.
These injuries often require surgical intervention.
What is the Penalty for GBH in Western Australia?
Grievous bodily harm can carry a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.
If it is committed in circumstances of aggravation, this penalty increases to 14 years imprisonment.
Mandatory minimum penalties apply if grievous bodily harm is committed during an aggravated home burglary.
Can I Defend a GBH Charge?
The most common defences against a grievous bodily harm charge is self-defence. It is important to note that provocation is not an available defence to grievous bodily harm.
Our experienced team of grievous bodily harm lawyers can assess your case to determine the most appropriate defence strategy.