Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Australia

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Doogue + George
Sunshine, Australia

Founded in 1996
50 people in their team
English
OverviewDoogue + George are Australia's largest firm of specialist defence lawyers. Our firm defends people and corporations accused of wrongdoing. By choosing Doogue + George as your lawyers you will: โ€ข Have confidence that you will get the best result when accused of wrongdoing โ€ข Protect your...
Nigams Legal
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2011
3 people in their team
English
Nigams Legal are dedicated to obtaining the best results for youNigams Legal is comprised of a team of professional lawyers who provide a range of expert legal services to clients through Western Australia. With more than 55 years of combined experience in the profession, we have built up a...
Bold Lawyers
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 2004
10 people in their team
English
About usBold Lawyers know that experience and great results are important. Just as important is the amount of money charged by your lawyer to achieve the result you want. Your legal fees can and should be reasonable no matter how big or small your case is.Depending on the agreement that you sign...

Founded in 2010
5 people in their team
English
Paxman & Paxman Barristers & Solicitors is a criminal law firm located in Perth, Western Australia.  Paxman & Paxman specialises in criminal law and traffic law. We are also experienced in representation in relation to restraining orders.We deal with all areas of criminal law...
ROBINSON GILL LAWYERS
Box Hill, Australia

Founded in 1979
50 people in their team
English
Chinese
There's no firm quite like us.Weโ€™ve set out to build a law firm that can help people with the issues that matter to them - whether that be in their personal lives or business lives.As a multidisciplinary practice, one of our key advantages is that we can see and advise you beyond a traditional...
Havilah Legal
Maylands, Australia

Founded in 1998
10 people in their team
English
About Havilah LegalFamily, Succession, Business & Litigation LawyersOur lawyers operate across a range of areas. These include Family Law and Deceased Estates and Inheritance, and Business Succession Planning, Litigation and Disputes. Our focus is on providing you, with reliable and strategic...
Catron Simmons Lawyers
Bella Vista, Australia

English
Catron Simmons Lawyers is a boutique law firm based in the Hills District, Bella Vista, New South Wales, offering experience across criminal law, family law, conveyancing and wills and estates. The firm draws on more than 40 years of combined experience to deliver clear, practical and reliable...
Jasper Fogerty Lawyers
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 2017
9 people in their team
English
Jasper Fogerty Lawyers are driven by a strong commitment to doing right by our clients.  We are leading Queensland criminal defence lawyers with an outstanding track record, a thorough and strategic approach to exploring our cases, and an impressive resume of experience in and outside the...
Tindall Gask Bentley, Adelaide
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1970
English
Established in 1970, Tindall Gask Bentley (TGB) has grown to become one of South Australia's largest plaintiff law firms, offering a comprehensive range of legal services. The firm's areas of expertise include personal injury claims, family and divorce law, wills and estates, criminal law,...
James & Jaramillo Lawyers
Sydney, Australia

English
James & Jaramillo Lawyers is a prominent Australian law firm recognized for its dedication to criminal justice, divorce, family law, and trial representation. The team brings together a wealth of legal expertise, with experienced attorneys who have consistently achieved positive outcomes across a...
AS SEEN ON

About Criminal Defense Law in Australia

Criminal defense law in Australia governs how individuals charged with crimes are prosecuted and defended in court. This field of law is designed to ensure that every accused person has the right to a fair trial and that their legal rights are protected throughout the legal process. Defense lawyers play a crucial role in advocating for the accused, challenging evidence, and negotiating with prosecutors. The legal system in Australia is based on common law traditions, influenced by British legal history, and includes both state-specific laws and federal legislation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where someone might require legal assistance in the field of criminal defense. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, regardless of its seriousness, legal representation is crucial to understand the charges and potentially mitigate legal consequences. Common situations include:

  • Arrest for suspected criminal behavior
  • Receiving a court summons for a criminal offense
  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges
  • Accusations of domestic violence
  • Being suspected or investigated for white-collar crimes
  • Juvenile offenses
  • Facing penalties such as fines or imprisonment

In these scenarios, a lawyer can provide valuable guidance, represent you in court, and work toward the best possible outcome for your situation.

Local Laws Overview

Criminal defense in Australia is shaped by both Commonwealth laws and state and territory-specific legislation. Key legal aspects include:

  • Presumption of Innocence: This is a fundamental principle where individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty.
  • The Right to Silence: Accused persons have the right not to incriminate themselves.
  • Legal Representation: Everyone has the right to legal representation and to a fair trial.
  • Types of Offenses: Criminal offenses are categorized into summary offenses (less serious) and indictable offenses (serious crimes).
  • Sentencing Laws: Sentencing is guided by legislation and case law to ensure consistency and fairness.
  • Bail and Remand: Specific regulations determine whether an accused will be held in custody or released on bail before trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a criminal defense lawyer?

A criminal defense lawyer represents and advises individuals charged with criminal offenses, ensuring their rights are protected and advocating for the best legal outcome in court.

Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?

Yes, even if you plan to plead guilty, a lawyer can help negotiate plea deals, potentially reduce charges, and ensure the sentence is fair and just.

What happens if I cannot afford a lawyer?

In Australia, individuals who cannot afford legal representation may be eligible for assistance through legal aid services provided by the government.

How are juvenile crimes treated differently?

Youths are typically dealt with in the juvenile justice system, which focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment compared to the adult system.

Can police question me without a lawyer present?

In most situations, you have the right to remain silent or request legal representation before and during police questioning.

What should I do if I am arrested?

Itโ€™s crucial to remain calm, ask for legal representation, and exercise your right to remain silent until you have spoken to a lawyer.

How long can I be held in custody?

The maximum time police can hold you for questioning varies, but generally, you must either be charged or released within a reasonable timeframe.

What are summary and indictable offenses?

Summary offenses are minor crimes dealt with in lower courts, while indictable offenses are serious crimes that may be tried in higher courts.

Can I appeal a conviction or sentence?

Yes, if you believe a legal error influenced your trial or sentencing, you may have grounds to appeal to a higher court.

What is a plea bargain?

A plea bargain involves the defendant agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence or other benefits.

Additional Resources

For more information and assistance, consider contacting the following resources:

  • Legal Aid Commissions in each state and territory
  • Local Bar Associations for referrals to criminal defense lawyers
  • Community Legal Centers for free or low-cost advice
  • Australian Human Rights Commission for information on rights

Next Steps

If you seek legal assistance in criminal defense:

  1. Contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer to discuss your case and options.
  2. Consider reaching out to a legal aid service if you require financial assistance.
  3. Gather all relevant information and documentation related to your case for your lawyer.
  4. Ensure you understand your rights and any legal timelines or requirements.
  5. Follow your lawyer's advice and prepare adequately for court appearances or legal proceedings.

Remember, seeking prompt legal advice can greatly affect the outcome of your situation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Criminal Defense, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Australia โ€” quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

Browse criminal defense law firms by service in Australia

Australia Attorneys in related practice areas.

Browse criminal defense law firms by city in Australia

Refine your search by selecting a city.

Criminal Defense Lawyers in Adelaide Criminal Defense Lawyers in Albany Criminal Defense Lawyers in Ashfield Criminal Defense Lawyers in Auburn Criminal Defense Lawyers in Bankstown Criminal Defense Lawyers in Baulkham Hills Criminal Defense Lawyers in Beenleigh Criminal Defense Lawyers in Bella Vista Criminal Defense Lawyers in Blacktown Criminal Defense Lawyers in Box Hill Criminal Defense Lawyers in Brisbane Criminal Defense Lawyers in Broadmeadows Criminal Defense Lawyers in Brunswick Criminal Defense Lawyers in Bunbury Criminal Defense Lawyers in Burwood Criminal Defense Lawyers in Clare Criminal Defense Lawyers in Dandenong Criminal Defense Lawyers in Devonport Criminal Defense Lawyers in Edwardstown Criminal Defense Lawyers in Epping Criminal Defense Lawyers in Erina Criminal Defense Lawyers in Forster Criminal Defense Lawyers in Frankston Criminal Defense Lawyers in Fremantle Criminal Defense Lawyers in Geelong Criminal Defense Lawyers in Glenroy Criminal Defense Lawyers in Gordon Criminal Defense Lawyers in Heidelberg Criminal Defense Lawyers in Hobart Criminal Defense Lawyers in Hornsby Criminal Defense Lawyers in Hurstville Criminal Defense Lawyers in Joondalup Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kangaroo Point Criminal Defense Lawyers in Launceston Criminal Defense Lawyers in Lilydale Criminal Defense Lawyers in Liverpool Criminal Defense Lawyers in Mackay Criminal Defense Lawyers in Mandurah Criminal Defense Lawyers in Maylands Criminal Defense Lawyers in Melbourne Criminal Defense Lawyers in Merrylands Criminal Defense Lawyers in Moorabbin Criminal Defense Lawyers in Morphett Vale Criminal Defense Lawyers in Narellan Criminal Defense Lawyers in Pakenham Upper Criminal Defense Lawyers in Parramatta Criminal Defense Lawyers in Penrith Criminal Defense Lawyers in Perth Criminal Defense Lawyers in Rockingham Criminal Defense Lawyers in Salisbury Criminal Defense Lawyers in Southport Criminal Defense Lawyers in Subiaco Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sunshine Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sydney Criminal Defense Lawyers in Thebarton Criminal Defense Lawyers in Williamstown