If you are charged with an offence of wounding or causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent to cause GBH, it must be proven that you wounded the person or caused them GBH, and that you intended (meant) to cause them grievous bodily harm.
A wound means any cutting, tearing or breaking of the skin, deeper than a surface-level scratch. Examples of a wound include a gash on the arm or a stab wound where the skin is punctured.
Grievous bodily harm means really serious injury. GBH includes any permanent or serious physical disfigurement, serious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, broken bones, internal bleeding, organ damage and the death of a foetus. An injury can amount to GBH even if it is not long-lasting or life-threatening.
The maximum penalty for wounding or GBH with intent to cause GBH (the heaviest sentence that a person can receive if found guilty) is imprisonment for 25 years. This offence also has a standard non-parole period of seven years.
If you have been charged with wounding or grievous bodily harm with intent, you should seek legal advice immediately.
If you or someone you know wants more information or needs help or advice, please contact us on 02 9159 9024 or email [email protected].