Find Trusted Criminal Lawyers
near Brisbane QLD

Average rating

4.9
4.92 starsStarStarStarStar
LawConnectYour legal assistant
Online
Responds instantly
Tell us what happened - we'll help you understand your options and find the right criminal lawyer in Brisbane.

Already know what you need?

Read thousands of verified recommendations from actual clients
Read thousands of verified recommendations from actual clients
See each lawyer's specialisation to find the right one for you
See each lawyer's specialisation to find the right one for you

How LawConnect works

1
LawConnect helps you create a brief for your legal needs
2
Shortlist suitable lawyers and read client reviews
3
Get a proposal from your lawyers of choice

Browse trusted Criminal Lawyers near Brisbane QLD based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of Criminal Lawyers near Brisbane QLD

4.9
4.92 stars from 1184 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 1184 client reviews

Criminal Lawyers in Brisbane QLD

Alex Mandry Legal Group

Alex Mandry Legal Group on the Sunshine Coast offers 70 years of combined legal experience. Specialising in Family Law, Wills & Estate Law, Business Law, Criminal Law, Mediation and Personal Injury Law, we provide reliable advice and practical solutions. Our initial consultation lets you discuss your matter, receive advice, and assess if we're the right fit, helping guide future costs. We value trust, integrity and commitment, serving clients from individuals to corporations. Family Law services include divorce, property settlement, children’s issues, child support, financial agreements and spousal maintenance. We also cover wills, estates, conveyancing and more.

Our Team

Pennisi Zia Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140085..

Pennisi Zia Lawyers brings over 50 years of experience, offering practical, commercially focused legal services tailored to your needs. We prioritise strong relationships by understanding the individuals behind each matter. Our clear, expert advice combines legal and industry knowledge, with many fixed fee options for transparency and cost-effectiveness. We provide reliable, personalised support in commercial law, family law, wills and estates, criminal law, conveyancing, and dispute resolution. Experience expert advice without large firm costs, saving you time and money.

Our Team

Kevin Fry from Pennisi Zia Lawyers
Houston Dearn O'Connor Solicitors

Houston Dearn O'Connor Solicitors has provided legal services since 1966, serving individuals, businesses, and Local Government. They specialise in Local Government and planning law, prosecutorial services for Local and State Government, criminal defence and AVO proceedings, commercial law, conveyancing and property law, wills and probate, and court advocacy. Their expertise covers private clients, business clients, and Local Government, offering comprehensive legal support across a variety of areas.

Our Team

Waylon Krabappel from Houston Dearn O'Connor SolicitorsOz Rosenberg from Houston Dearn O'Connor SolicitorsChandler Martin from Houston Dearn O'Connor SolicitorsDonna Ludgate from Houston Dearn O'Connor Solicitors
Cullen Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140047..

Cullen Lawyers specialise in criminal defence, family law, domestic violence, and traffic offences across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. They handle cases including bail applications, manslaughter, drug and weapons offences, armed robbery, divorce, property settlement, protection orders, and drink driving. The firm is committed to excellence, offering professional support, respect, and integrity. Director Corey Cullen emphasises clear, honest communication to empower clients throughout their legal journey. Recent updates include QLD drug possession laws and Victoria’s 2024 amendments targeting organised crime.

Our Team

Carl Wyndam-Pryce from Cullen Lawyers
Legal Crunch

At My Legal Crunch Lawyers, we go beyond legal expertise to understand your unique needs with compassion, transparency, and respect. We offer a full range of Australian legal services including family law, mediation, domestic violence, criminal law, employment law, and wills and probates. Our family law team assists with divorce, custody, and property settlements with sensitivity. Mediation promotes peaceful dispute resolution. We support clients facing domestic violence with protection orders and legal guidance. Our criminal and employment lawyers strive for fair outcomes. For estate matters, we ensure wishes are honoured. Trust us as your caring, expert legal partners.

Our Team

Willow Parcell from Legal Crunch Kenneth Perkins from Legal Crunch
Pascoe Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140036..

Pascoe Law, based in Brisbane and Cleveland, specialises in criminal, traffic, domestic violence, and child protection law. Established in 2016, the firm is known for honest, fast advice and thorough preparation. The team supports clients through court appearances and complex cases, offering clear guidance and fighting for the best outcomes. They provide duty lawyer services at Cleveland and Wynnum Magistrates Courts and represent both private clients and Legal Aid Queensland applicants. Pascoe Law’s local expertise across South East Queensland ensures confident, effective legal support. Call 07 3556 3995.

Our Team

Jason Funke from Pascoe LawChidi Carlson from Pascoe LawZoidberg Fry from Pascoe LawJack Pelton from Pascoe Law
Schoenmaker Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140010..

Schoenmaker Legal, founded in 2016 by William Schoenmaker, is a family law practice in Springhill, Brisbane, with over 25 years of industry experience. We focus on out-of-court resolutions through negotiation, offering clients timely and cost-effective solutions. Understanding the challenges family law clients face, we prioritise compassion and support, guiding them towards positive outcomes. Our services include Family Law, Traffic Matters, Wills and Estates, and Criminal Law.

Our Team

Angel Rodriguez from Schoenmaker Legal
Bell Dore Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140032..

Bell Dore Lawyers is a boutique firm offering personalised legal services with over 20 years’ combined experience from directors Jarrod Bell and Adrian Dore. They provide cost-effective solutions across criminal, family, traffic law, wills and estates, and domestic violence matters. Their expertise includes defending your rights in criminal cases, securing favourable family law outcomes, assisting with traffic issues, estate planning and administration, and protection order challenges. Bell Dore Lawyers cater to both commercial and private clients seeking timely legal assistance.

Our Team

Homer Fry from Bell Dore Lawyers Wesley Van Houten from Bell Dore Lawyers Xander Fry from Bell Dore Lawyers
NR Barbi Solicitor
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140097..

NR Barbi Solicitor, established in 1970 by Noel Barbi, moved from Fortitude Valley to Merthyr Village, New Farm in the 1990s. Renowned for its advocacy and resolution-focused approach, NR Barbi offers expertise in dispute resolution, civil litigation, family law (including property and parenting), general commercial disputes, conveyancing, wills and estates, arts law, and criminal law. The firm caters to both individuals and corporate clients, providing services in divorce, child support, mediation, estate planning, litigation, and commercial law matters such as business restructuring and partnership agreements.

Our Team

Shirley Funke from NR Barbi Solicitor Jerry Farnsworth from NR Barbi Solicitor Jason Lehane from NR Barbi Solicitor
March On Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140015..

March On Legal, based in Queensland, offers a range of fixed-fee legal services for the community, including Defence Force members and veterans. With over a decade of experience, our solicitors excel in complex legal matters. We ensure transparent pricing, giving clients certainty around costs. Our expertise spans multiple areas of law, including family law (divorce, custody), domestic violence applications, traffic issues (DUI, disqualifications), and criminal law (from bail to serious charges). We provide thorough property conveyancing services and are dedicated to supporting military personnel with entitlement and service injury claims. Our commitment is to high-quality legal services with integrity and transparency.

Our Team

Buffy Tribbiani from March On LegalJohnny Diaz from March On Legal
Robert Bax and Associates

Our approach centres on your needs: practical, priority-focused, and no-nonsense. We avoid over-servicing and keep you in control, aiming to positively impact your situation with persistence. Fees are upfront—fixed or hourly—aligned to best value without surprises. Fixed fees suit matters like divorce, drink driving, work licences, and conveyancing. We provide clear cost disclosure and may offer deferred fees where appropriate. We do not accept Legal Aid. Proud sponsors of Norths Devils and Valleys Diehards, we specialise in family law, personal injury, wills & estates, conveyancing, commercial law, weapons licensing, rural law, and criminal law.

Our Team

Angela Knope from Robert Bax and AssociatesLisa Schrute from Robert Bax and AssociatesToby Harris from Robert Bax and Associates
Wheldon and Associates
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140097..

Wheldon & Associates offers Sunnybank and Browns Plains expert legal advice and representation across a wide range of services, including conveyancing, family law, criminal law, succession planning, deceased estate administration, business law, personal injury, and litigation. Our experienced team is committed to providing cost-effective, practical legal solutions, ensuring quality advice that won’t break the bank. Trust us to handle your legal needs with professionalism and care.

Our Team

Lenny Jordan from Wheldon and AssociatesEdna Turanga from Wheldon and Associates

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a criminal defence lawyer cost in Brisbane?
Criminal defence lawyers in Brisbane typically charge between $300 and $800 per hour depending on their experience level. For specific matters, a simple guilty plea in the Magistrates Court generally costs around $2,200, while a contested District Court trial can exceed $50,000 once barrister fees and disbursements are included. Costs vary significantly based on the complexity of your charge, which court handles it, the volume of evidence, and the number of court appearances required. More experienced lawyers charge higher rates, though their expertise may resolve matters more efficiently. If cost is a concern, you can explore legal aid options or community legal centres in Brisbane, or contact one of the 27 criminal defence firms available through LawConnect, with 10 offering free initial consultations and 9 providing fixed-fee arrangements.
Do I need a lawyer for a criminal charge?
Whether you need a lawyer for a criminal charge depends on the seriousness of the matter and your circumstances. For minor offences, you may represent yourself, but this is generally not recommended. Criminal proceedings are complex and adversarial, and what you say to police or in court can significantly impact your case. Early legal intervention often makes the difference between quick resolution and costly litigation. If you cannot afford private representation, free options are available in Brisbane. Legal Aid Queensland is located just 0.5 km away, and Caxton Community Legal Centre is only 0.1 km from your area and can provide free legal advice. LawConnect has 27 criminal lawyers listed in Brisbane and nearby areas, with 10 offering free initial consultations. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your situation with a qualified lawyer at no cost before deciding how to proceed.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Brisbane?
In Queensland, penalties for drug possession depend on the type and quantity of the drug involved. Simple possession of small amounts may result in a fine or a good behaviour bond, while possession of larger quantities can lead to imprisonment. The maximum penalties vary significantly based on whether the drug is classified as a dangerous drug or another controlled substance, and courts consider factors such as whether you have prior convictions and your personal circumstances when determining sentences. If you're facing drug possession charges in Brisbane, it's important to seek legal advice promptly. LawConnect has 27 criminal lawyers listed in Brisbane who can help you understand your specific situation, including 2 firms that offer legal aid services.
What is common assault in Brisbane?
Common assault in Brisbane is an offence under Queensland law that generally involves applying force to another person without their consent, or threatening to apply force in a way that causes the person to believe force will be applied. It can include punching, pushing, hitting, or even spitting on someone. The offence also covers situations where you threaten immediate unlawful violence in a manner that makes the other person fear you will carry out that threat. Common assault is typically less serious than aggravated assault, which involves additional circumstances such as weapons or causing actual bodily harm. Penalties vary depending on the specific circumstances of the incident. If you are facing common assault charges in Brisbane, speaking with a criminal lawyer can help you understand your options and the potential consequences.
What is a spent conviction in Brisbane?
A spent conviction in Queensland is a criminal conviction that, after a certain period has passed without further offences, becomes "spent" and no longer needs to be disclosed in most circumstances. Once a conviction is spent, you generally don't have to mention it when applying for jobs, housing, insurance or other purposes, though some exceptions apply for sensitive roles and certain organisations. The time required for a conviction to become spent depends on the sentence imposed. Generally, shorter sentences become spent more quickly than longer ones. Queensland has its own spent conviction scheme that sets out the specific waiting periods and conditions. If you need advice about whether a particular conviction may be spent or how to apply for a spent conviction order in Brisbane, you can contact one of the 27 criminal law firms listed on LawConnect, including 2 that offer legal aid services.
What are the sentencing options in Brisbane?
In Queensland, sentencing options available to courts depend on the nature and seriousness of the offence. Courts may impose custodial sentences (imprisonment), suspended sentences, fines, community-based orders, probation, or a combination of these penalties. For less serious matters, courts can also impose conditional release orders or other non-custodial alternatives. The specific sentencing options available and the range of penalties applicable vary significantly depending on whether the offence is summary or indictable, and the particular legislation governing that offence. If you're facing criminal charges in Brisbane and need legal advice tailored to your situation, LawConnect has 27 criminal law firms listed in the Brisbane area, including 2 that offer legal aid services.
What should a character reference letter for court include?
A character reference letter for court should be typed on letterhead and addressed to the Presiding Officer or Judge. It must be signed and dated. The letter should speak to the accused's positive character traits, their contributions to family and community, their work history, and their law-abiding nature. It works best when written by people who know the accused well, such as employers, family members, friends, colleagues, or members of community organisations. The reference should be specific to the court case rather than generic, and should avoid generic phrases like "to whom it may concern". Quality matters more than quantity, so aim for a few strong references rather than many weak ones. The letter may also address how a sentence could affect the accused's employment, family or other circumstances. For personalised advice on preparing character references for your specific case, consider speaking with a criminal lawyer in Brisbane who can guide you through the process.
What counts as fraud in Brisbane?
In Queensland, fraud is a criminal offence involving dishonest conduct where you use deception to acquire someone else's property, obtain a financial advantage, or cause financial disadvantage to another person. Deception means deliberately and intentionally misleading someone through what you say or do. The courts assess whether conduct is dishonest by applying the standard of an ordinary person—would a reasonable person consider the behaviour dishonest? You can be charged with fraud even if money was exchanged, provided the prosecution can prove you acted deceptively or dishonestly. The deception must be either intentional or reckless, meaning you were aware your conduct might be deceptive but proceeded regardless. If you're facing fraud charges in Brisbane, seeking advice from a criminal lawyer experienced in dishonesty offences is essential, as the consequences can be serious.
What are the grounds for bail in Brisbane?
In Queensland, bail may be granted when a person charged with an offence can satisfy the court that they will attend court, not commit further offences, not interfere with witnesses or evidence, and not risk the safety or welfare of others. The decision-maker will assess whether the risks are acceptable and can be managed through conditions such as reporting to police, residing at a specific address, curfews, or staying away from certain people or places. For serious offences, the test may be stricter. If you are facing a bail application in Brisbane, you should seek legal advice promptly. There are 27 criminal law firms listed on LawConnect in Brisbane, including 3 offering emergency services and 2 with legal aid availability. The Brisbane Magistrates Court, located at 363 George Street, is 0.3 km away, and Caxton Community Legal Centre is 0.1 km away if you need further assistance.

Find trusted lawyers