An Enduring Influence: Sir Samuel Griffith and His Contribution to Criminal Justice in Queensland

Abstract

Sir Samuel Griffith (1845-1920) has rightfully been accorded a pre-eminent place in the annals of Queensland law and politics, serving as Attorney-General and Premier of Queensland, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Queensland and the first Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia. This article examines his contribution to criminal justice in Queensland and argues that this is perhaps his greatest achievement, with the Criminal Code of 1899 and the Justices Act 1886 still in use today, largely in the same format. His contribution to criminal justice is examined in the context of his life and work, adding to the understanding of the origins of these important pieces of legislation.