Unfair murder trial? The case of Maree Crabtree
19 May 2026
Maree Crabtree was formally acquitted in the Brisbane Supreme Court last Monday.
This high profile case is a stark, sobering reminder of why the presumption of innocence must remain the absolute bedrock of our justice system.
Originally taken into custody in January 2018, Ms Crabtree spent just over 6 years on remand before being granted bail following a mistrial in February 2024.
Despite significant evidential issues and judicial comment on the reliability of the prosecution’s “mentally compromised” key witness who had a motive to lie, the Crown pushed on.
After more than 8 years under the shadow of these allegations, a jury of her peers returned a verdict of not guilty on all counts.
6 years on remand for an innocent person is not a sign of a smoothly running system. Justice delayed to this extent is a profound burden.
But this result is an extraordinary testament to the resilience of the client, the vital role of the jury, and the unwavering dedication of her legal team.
Clutch Legal has a broad range of experience in criminal charges, including serious and minor charges.