CRIMINAL COURTS, 2012–13 - TASMANIA
Total finalised defendants
In 2012–13, the number of finalised defendants in Tasmania was 14,907. (Table 37)
Between 2011–12 and 2012–13, the number of finalised defendants decreased by 16% (2,751 defendants):
- male defendants decreased by 15% (1,980 defendants); and
- female defendants decreased by 18% (766 defendants). (Table 38)
Principal offence
In 2012–13, the three most common principal offences were:
- traffic and vehicle regulatory offences (41% or 6,043 defendants);
- acts intended to cause injury (14% or 2,073 defendants); and
- offences against justice (8% or 1,238 defendants). (Table 37)
Method of finalisation
Of the 14,907 defendants finalised in 2012–13:
- 12,467 (84%) were proven guilty;
- 1,777 (12%) were acquitted; and
- 366 (3%) were transferred to other court levels. (Table 37)
Principal sentence
Of defendants found guilty in 2012–13, the median sentence length or fine amount (for the combined Magistrates' and Children's Courts) for those who received a principal sentence of:
- custody in a correctional institution was 3 months;
- a community service order was 57 hours; and
- a fine was $300. (Tables 53, 54 and 55)
Other key points
In 2012–13, Tasmania had:
- the largest proportional decrease in finalised defendants from 2011–12 (down 16% or 2,751 defendants);
- the highest proportion of defendants acquitted (12% or 1,777 defendants); and
- the highest proportion of custodial sentences given for less than 12 months (94% or 526 defendants).