The 11 Best Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne (2025)

Facing a criminal charge can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. The legal system is complex, and navigating it without expert guidance can be a daunting prospect. Choosing the right criminal lawyer is paramount to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome. This listicle provides a comprehensive overview of some of the leading criminal lawyers in Melbourne, helping you make an informed decision when you need it most.

1. Mk Law criminal lawyers

Mk Law criminal lawyers are a well-regarded firm in Melbourne, known for their dedication to defending clients across a wide range of criminal matters. They possess a strong reputation for their client-focused approach and for achieving favorable results in complex cases. The team consistently demonstrates expertise in areas such as drug offenses, assault, theft, traffic violations, and white-collar crime. Their commitment lies in understanding each client's unique circumstances and developing a robust defense strategy.

• Description: Mk Law criminal lawyers focus on providing comprehensive legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges. They prioritize understanding the client's story and building a strong defense tailored to their needs. Their team comprises seasoned solicitors and barristers who work collaboratively to achieve the best possible outcomes. They are known for providing clear and concise advice, ensuring clients are fully informed throughout the legal process. They emphasize a pragmatic approach to each case, aiming for the most favorable result, whether that be through negotiation, trial, or appeal. They handle cases in all Melbourne courts. They also actively keep up to date with new legislation. Their office is located in the Melbourne CBD.
• Pros:
  • Extensive experience in a wide range of criminal law matters.
  • Client-focused approach, prioritizing communication and support.
  • Strong history of successful outcomes.
  • Experienced team of solicitors and barristers.
  • Transparent communication and clear legal advice.
  • Located in the Melbourne CBD, providing easy access.
• Cons:
  • As with all top-tier firms, their services may come with a higher price point than some smaller firms or sole practitioners, but this reflects their expertise and experience.
• Who it's best for: Individuals facing any type of criminal charge who require expert legal representation and a dedicated team committed to achieving the best possible outcome. This includes those facing serious charges or those seeking clear and transparent legal guidance. If you would like to know more about the firm, visit the website at https://www.mklawfirm.com.au/.

2. Galbally & O'Bryan

Galbally & O'Bryan is a well-established law firm with a strong criminal law division in Melbourne. They offer broad expertise across various criminal matters, from drug offenses to assault and more. Their approach focuses on a detailed understanding of the specifics of each case, and they are committed to providing robust representation, and defending their client's rights. Their team includes experienced lawyers dedicated to delivering comprehensive legal solutions.

• Description: Galbally & O'Bryan provides a comprehensive array of legal services. Specializing in criminal law, the firm focuses on delivering tailored services. Their lawyers, known for their skill in court, diligently prepare each case to provide the best defense. They represent clients at all stages of the legal process.
• Pros:
  • Experienced criminal defence lawyers.
  • Well-established firm with a strong reputation.
  • Representation across a wide range of criminal charges.
• Cons:
  • Size of the firm may mean you work more with junior lawyers.
• Who it's best for: Individuals looking for a long-established firm with broad experience to handle their case.

3. Dribbin & Brown Criminal Lawyers

Dribbin & Brown Criminal Lawyers are focused on criminal defence. Known for their dedication and commitment to their clients, they strive to mount a robust defence. They offer representation in all types of criminal law matters, including complex cases. The team's approach centers on thoroughly investigating each case and fighting relentlessly for their clients' rights.

• Description: Dribbin & Brown Criminal Lawyers is a Melbourne-based firm solely dedicated to criminal defense. They handle a variety of cases, from minor offenses to serious indictable crimes. They aim to provide tailored legal strategies, giving careful consideration when providing advice. Known for their courtroom prowess, they work tirelessly to defend their clients.
• Pros:
  • Focused expertise in criminal law.
  • Experienced trial lawyers.
  • Strong client advocacy.
• Cons:
  • May be a smaller firm, which can, at times, limit resources for more complex cases.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking aggressive representation and an experienced trial lawyer.

4. Jarryd Bartle Criminal Defence Lawyers

Jarryd Bartle Criminal Defence Lawyers are known for their hands-on approach and personal commitment to each case. They are focused on giving their clients the best possible defence. They are renowned for their personalized service and attention to case strategy, especially for clients that need clear advice.

• Description: Jarryd Bartle Criminal Defence Lawyers are committed to providing dedicated and personalized criminal defence. Every client receives individual attention. They offer strong support and clear advice. The firm handles all aspects of criminal law.
• Pros:
  • Personalized attention and support.
  • Strong case preparation.
  • Clear Communication.
• Cons:
  • May have a smaller team which could influence the complexity of cases they will accept.
• Who it's best for: Clients valuing direct communication and personalized attention.

5. Stary Norton Halphen

Stary Norton Halphen is a Melbourne-based firm providing services across criminal law. They provide a range of legal services, and their team contains a selection of lawyers with specialization in criminal law. This firm's approach is dedicated to providing high-quality legal advice across different fields of criminal law.

• Description: Stary Norton Halphen offers a complete legal service. The firm's criminal law group provides extensive knowledge across a wide range of case issues. They deliver tailored legal solutions. They aim to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
• Pros:
  • Established firm with extensive legal experience.
  • Experienced lawyers.
  • Provide a range of legal services for all clientele.
• Cons:
  • May take on a large volume of cases, which could affect time and availability.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a well-rounded legal experience with extensive professional reach.

6. Robert Stary

Robert Stary is a well-known criminal defence lawyer in Melbourne. His focus lies in representing clients in criminal matters, with extensive experience in defending his clients. His practice centers on providing vigorous advocacy. Robert Stary offers services across a selection of criminal cases.

• Description: Robert Stary concentrates on criminal law, offering expert legal assistance. He is dedicated to building robust defence strategies. His background in criminal defence has earned him a solid reputation.
• Pros:
  • Highly experienced in criminal defence.
  • Known for his courtroom skills.
  • Strong advocacy for his clients.
• Cons:
  • Requires careful consideration of workload and availability.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a lawyer specializing in complex cases.

7. Weir Legal

Weir Legal in Melbourne provides several legal services, with a strong focus on criminal defence. The team, known for its client-focused approach, is dedicated to protecting the rights of those facing accusations. Weir Legal is committed to offering a selection of legal strategies.

• Description: Weir Legal offers services in criminal law. The team has experience in defending serious cases. Weir Legal delivers comprehensive help to clients. The firm is dedicated to providing support throughout the legal process.
• Pros:
  • Experienced criminal defence lawyers.
  • Known for personalized guidance.
  • Client support.
• Cons:
  • Experience, and knowledge may not suit all case complexities.
• Who it's best for: Clients in need of dedicated legal counsel.

8. P&B Law

P&B Law offers criminal defence services in Melbourne. They bring broad experience to defending clients accused of crimes. They focus on delivering a thorough legal approach. P&B Law works hard to offer legal guidance and support.

• Description: P&B Law specializes in criminal defence. The team handles a diversity of charges. Their commitment is to vigorously defend client rights, and offers comprehensive legal solutions. They are dedicated to delivering strong legal counsel and support.
• Pros:
  • Experienced in various areas of criminal defence.
  • Provides direct support.
  • Delivers clear communication.
• Cons:
  • May have a smaller, more intimate practice approach.
• Who it's best for: Individuals who benefit from clear, and direct communications, and support.

9. Victoria Criminal Defence Lawyers

Victoria Criminal Defence Lawyers is dedicated to criminal defence work. The firm offers expert advice and legal representation to clients. They place a high value on client understanding and dedicated service. They strive to provide each client with the best outcome.

• Description: Victoria Criminal Defence Lawyers have experience in all tiers of the court system. Their experienced lawyers work closely with clients to understand their situation. They are committed to providing the best legal solutions.
• Pros:
  • Specific area of focus: criminal law.
  • Client-centered approach.
  • Expertise across various charges.
• Cons:
  • Resources may be limited compared to larger firms.
• Who it's best for: People seeking a firm experienced in criminal law.

10. Abbey Legal

Abbey Legal provides legal services in Melbourne with a specific focus on criminal law. Their lawyers provide advice and defend in all areas of criminal law. They are known for providing personalized legal service and strive to ensure all clients' needs are met.

• Description: Abbey Legal offers guidance on a variety of cases. The team handles cases related to violence, drug offenses, and traffic violations. Their experience allows them to craft legal strategies. They focus on providing a strong defence at all stages.
• Pros:
  • Experienced lawyers specializing in criminal matters.
  • Personalized care.
  • Strong defence strategies.
• Cons:
  • Smaller firm size.
• Who it's best for: People looking for personalized attention.

11. Gordon Legal

Gordon Legal offers services in Melbourne. They have a team of criminal law experts delivering legal advice. Their goal is to provide a complete understanding of the law and legal representation. The firm aims at supporting its clients through the legal process.

• Description: Gordon Legal is based in Melbourne and provides services across a range of legal issues. They have a dedicated team for criminal law matters. Their legal team is focused on helping clients through various cases.
• Pros:
  • Experienced and reputable.
  • Offers legal solutions and advice.
  • Understands their client's needs.
• Cons:
  • Their workload might affect how quickly they can service new clients.
• Who it's best for: Seeking a strong team that understands the local law.