There is continuing criticism from the legal profession over the Queensland Government’s new anti-bikie laws.

The Queensland Law and Justice Institute (QLJI) says the State Government should be defending judges and magistrates instead of attacking them.

The State Government is in conflict with the legal fraternity over its new anti-bikie and sex offender laws.

Yesterday, Premier Campbell Newman accused the judiciary of living in “ivory towers”, and urged them to enforce the new legislation.

‘Judiciary being attacked’

QLJI president Peter Callaghan SC says Mr Newman has also accused them of being unaccountable.

“The whole concept of Westminster democracy as I say depends upon an independent judiciary and here is our judiciary being attacked by the Government,” Mr Callaghan said.

“Because they stand apart above the fray, judges can’t defend themselves from attack.

“It’s traditionally the job of the Attorney-General.”

‘Extraordinary’ Labor was quick to back laws

Mr Callaghan says he is particularly concerned the legislation was rushed through in a day.

He says it is also extraordinary that Labor was so quick to support it.

“Couldn’t really have understood it,” Mr Callaghan said.

“It took me a few days going through this legislation to really understand its effects and to see how it could play out.

“How a responsible debate on this legislation could occur in the time allowed by this Government is utterly beyond me.”