This news article identifies the issues that may arise in the upcoming trial of Aboriginal man, Jack Congo Murrell, for the murder of another Aboriginal person.

'The Black Native Jack Congo Murrell', The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (5 May 1836) 2

Following the arrival of the British in 1788, English criminal law was imposed across the colony, although it was initially unclear whether it applied to Aboriginal people. Over time, Aboriginal people were subject to English law overriding and not recognising long-standing Aboriginal legal systems.

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'The Black Native Jack Congo Murrell', The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (5 May 1836) 2

Application of criminal law to Aboriginal people