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Browse trusted Criminal Lawyers near Melbourne VIC based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of Criminal Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.9
4.9 stars from 1854 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 1854 client reviews

Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

SLKQ Lawyers

SLKQ Lawyers

SLKQ Lawyers has 5 stars from 23 recommendations5
23 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140006..

SLKQ Lawyers, pronounced ‘Silk’, signifies our high level of operation in the legal field. With over 15 years of experience and Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law, we’re committed to assisting you. Transparency and mutual understanding are central to our culture. Our modern processes enable a flexible, remote work approach, ensuring our lawyers are accessible for discussions regarding your case. Trust and confidentiality are vital, and we encourage open communication to cover every aspect of your case. We handle all criminal law matters, from minor driving offences to serious charges like murder, always focusing on your unique needs. We aim for the best results while supporting you through this stressful process.

Our Team

Xander Krabappel from SLKQ LawyersAnn Jenkins from SLKQ LawyersDonna Flenderson from SLKQ Lawyers
Wiin Lawyers

Wiin Lawyers

Wiin Lawyers has 5 stars from 18 recommendations5
18 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140056..

Wiin Lawyers, established on 17 April 2020, provides expert legal services while prioritising happiness for both lawyers and clients. We aim to foster a supportive community, ensuring our team and clients feel respected. Our vision is to be Melbourne's premier boutique law firm known for excellent service, driven by happy, empathetic lawyers. Our core values focus on people, integrity, and excellence. We specialise in property, family law, litigation, criminal defence, and commercial law, including buying and selling businesses, lease agreements, and dispute resolution. Our motto: Happy Lawyers, Happy Customers.

Our Team

Pierce Rodriguez from Wiin Lawyers
PLS Lawyers

PLS Lawyers

PLS Lawyers has 4.4 stars from 22 recommendations4.4
22 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140085..

At PLS Lawyers, our experienced team fights for your rights and aims for the best outcomes. Our lawyers specialise in family law, business law, conveyancing, wills & probates, migration law, and administrative law, ensuring expert guidance in all areas. We’re committed to ongoing education to enhance our expertise. With a new branch in Moonee Ponds and our Melbourne CBD office, we effectively serve a diverse clientele. Our growth has strengthened client relationships, adding value and reputation to our firm. We pride ourselves on high professional standards, providing effective legal solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

Our Team

Stanley Zuckerkorn from PLS Lawyers
Privitelli Legal

Privitelli Legal

Privitelli Legal has 5 stars from 1 recommendations5
1 rating
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140042..

PRIVITELLI SOLICITORS, based in Melbourne's legal precinct near State and Federal Courts, offers expertise in various legal areas. In Business & Commercial Law, we handle transactions, leases, trusts, and company law. Our Conveyancing services cover real estate transactions and property development. In Will & Probate, we manage both simple and complex wills, probate applications, estate administration, and estate planning. Our Family Law services include property settlements and parenting cases. We also specialise in Criminal Law for all jurisdictions, including serious offences. Our practice collaborates with experienced Barristers and agency firms across Australia for specialised matters.

Our Team

Ralph Jordan from Privitelli Legal
Midson & Associates

Midson & Associates

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140042..

Midson and Associates is a Melbourne firm with offices in the CBD, Coburg, and Preston, offering legal expertise in various areas, including family law, property law, business law, criminal law, and wills. Our family law services cover divorce, children’s issues, and property settlements, while our criminal law team handles traffic offences and serious criminal charges. We also assist with property purchases, including contract negotiation and settlements. Additionally, we provide estate planning, Power of Attorney services, and probate support for Executors. If you’re considering buying or selling a business or need guidance on commercial leases, we’re here to help. Contact us for professional legal support.

Our Team

Xander Diaz from Midson & Associates
Bentleys Barristers & Solicitors

Bentleys Barristers & Solicitors

Bentleys Barristers & Solicitors has 4.6 stars from 45 recommendations4.6
45 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140043..

At our Melbourne-based firm, Bentleys Barristers & Solicitors, we provide tailored legal solutions focused on collaboration, transparency, and advocacy. Our experienced solicitors navigate complex legal landscapes across various areas, including family, criminal, immigration, commercial, and property law. We offer strategic guidance, personalised representation, and notary services, ensuring authenticity in legal transactions. Our expertise extends to luxury assets, facilitating international deals in yachts and art. With decades of reliable service, we aim to deliver outcomes that exceed client expectations while safeguarding their interests across all legal needs. Contact us to learn more.

Our Team

Edna Kroker from Bentleys Barristers & SolicitorsJeff Bouvier from Bentleys Barristers & SolicitorsTom Peralta from Bentleys Barristers & Solicitors
RLG Legal & Associates

RLG Legal & Associates

RLG Legal & Associates has 5 stars from 2 recommendations5
2 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140095..

RLG Legal & Associates are experienced family law, domestic violence, and child protection lawyers with over 10 years in the industry. Our dedicated team provides compassionate guidance through legal matters, empowering families to make informed decisions. We assist with family law cases, ensuring your wishes are reflected in your Will and that your loved ones are looked after. Our probates service manages deceased estates professionally and sensitively. We also offer support to victims of violent crime in Victoria, helping them recover expenses through compensation. For reliable legal advice, trust RLG Legal & Associates to be by your side.

Our Team

Faith Szyslak from RLG Legal & Associates
Maan Law

Maan Law

Maan Law has 5 stars from 1 recommendations5
1 rating
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140023..

Maan Law is a Melbourne-based firm dedicated to delivering results through excellence and client-focused service. We understand the significant impact legal matters can have and aim to support clients during every stage of the process with empathy and strategic advice. Our diverse legal services cover criminal law, including traffic offences and serious charges, as well as extensive family law services like divorce and child custody. Additionally, we provide comprehensive property law expertise in buying, selling, and contract negotiations. As members of PEXA, we ensure efficient property transactions. Our goal is to offer legal solutions and reassuring guidance in navigating the legal landscape.

Our Team

Tracy Hudson from Maan Law
TLA Legal

TLA Legal

TLA Legal has 5 stars from 2 recommendations5
2 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140036..

TLA Legal is a boutique law firm in Melbourne, specialising in complex disputes, litigation, and multi-million-dollar property projects. We cater to individuals and businesses, from local cafés to international firms. Our experienced team is committed to advancing clients' interests, even against powerful entities like governments and banks. We focus on understanding clients' situations and providing practical, cost-effective solutions. Our services cover litigation, commercial law, property matters, wills and probate, and migration law. Whether you're dealing with business disputes or criminal charges, we're here to help. Contact us for a consultation.

Our Team

Amy Donaghy from TLA Legal
Bramham Lawyers

Bramham Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140073..

Bramham Lawyers is a vibrant Melbourne team specialising in Criminal Law, Family Law, Wills & Powers of Attorney, Estate Litigation, Conveyancing, and Victims of Crime Compensation. Each member focuses on specific areas, staying updated on laws and case precedents. We offer empathetic yet determined support, guiding clients through legal challenges to achieve the best outcomes. With a close-knit, experienced team, we craft tailored plans for success. Contact us for a free consultation—early action improves your chances of favourable results.

Our Team

Cordelia Wong from Bramham LawyersPhyllis Edison from Bramham Lawyers
Nanscawen Lawyers

Nanscawen Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC

Nanscawen Lawyers, established in 1954, is a respected Melbourne law firm with offices in Essendon, CBD and Laverton. We specialise in Property Law & Conveyancing, Commercial & Business Law, Wills & Estates, Family Law, Litigation, and Criminal Law. Offering premium legal services at cost-effective rates, our experienced team prides itself on excellence and personalised client care. We ensure thorough understanding of your legal matters and provide expert advice and representation.

Our Team

Jim Jordan from Nanscawen LawyersTara Brannigan from Nanscawen LawyersCharles Szyslak from Nanscawen Lawyers
Legal Crunch

Legal Crunch

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC

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
Canaan Lawyers

Canaan Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140053..

Canaan Lawyers, based in Melbourne, specialises in legal services for the Chinese community. Our multilingual team offers cost-effective, high-quality legal advice tailored to Chinese clients, staying updated with legislative changes. We focus on practical solutions providing clients a commercial edge, with expertise in employment, commercial, criminal, family law, wills, and probate. Offering access to Asia-Pacific business networks, we help clients expand beyond Australia. Choose Canaan for personalised, professional legal support dedicated to achieving your goals.

Our Team

Angela Flanders from Canaan LawyersPhoebe Pelton from Canaan LawyersRupert Flenderson from Canaan Lawyers
Kabo Lawyers

Kabo Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140064..

Kabo Lawyers is a Melbourne boutique law firm offering fully integrated legal services to individuals and businesses from local and emerging Asian markets. With over a decade of experience, we specialise in migration, commercial and corporate law, legal disputes, contracts, powers of attorney, planning and environment, property, criminal, family, wills and probate, employment law, and public notary services. Our multicultural team combines expertise in Australian law with cultural sensitivity to provide personalised, tailored advice and build long-term trusted relationships, delivering optimal service for every client.

Our Team

Milhouse Schrute from Kabo LawyersJake Summers from Kabo LawyersTerry Holt from Kabo Lawyers
VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants

VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140031..

Vstar Lawyers and Consultants offer quality, efficient, and cost-effective legal services across multiple disciplines. Since 2006, they’ve helped over 25,000 clients with matters including conveyancing, migration, commercial law, criminal law, and family law. Their fixed-rate conveyancing packages start from $1,100. Services also include notarial acts, document legalisation, and NAATI-certified translation. Vstar prides itself on commitment, expertise, integrity, compassion, and transparency, providing personalised, confidential advice tailored to client needs.

Our Team

Oscar Wyndam-Pryce from VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants Maggie Al-Jamil from VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants Dawn Barnes from VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a criminal defence lawyer cost in Melbourne?
Criminal defence lawyers in Melbourne typically charge between $300 and $800 per hour depending on their experience level. For specific matters, you can expect to pay around $2,200 for a guilty plea in the Local Court, $5,000 to $15,000 for a defended hearing, and $20,000 to $100,000 or more for serious trials in higher courts. The final cost depends on the charge type, court level, evidence complexity, and your lawyer's seniority. LawConnect has 30 criminal defence firms listed in Melbourne, with 17 offering free initial consultations and 9 providing fixed-fee arrangements. If cost is a concern, Victoria Legal Aid Melbourne is located 0.6 km away, and the Federation of Community Legal Centres is just 0.3 km from the CBD.
Do I need a lawyer for a criminal charge?
Whether you need a criminal lawyer depends on the seriousness of your charge and your circumstances. For minor matters, you may manage without representation, but for most criminal charges—particularly those in higher courts or involving jail time—legal representation is strongly advisable. The criminal justice system is complex and adversarial, and what you say to police or in court can significantly impact your outcome. Early legal intervention often makes the difference between quick resolution and costly litigation. If cost is a concern, you have options. Victoria Legal Aid Melbourne is located just 0.6 km away and may provide free or subsidised representation depending on your eligibility. The Federation of Community Legal Centres, located 0.3 km away, also offers free legal advice. LawConnect has 69 criminal lawyers listed in your area, with 17 offering free initial consultations and 9 offering fixed fees, which can help you understand costs upfront before committing to representation.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Melbourne?
Drug possession penalties in Victoria depend on the type and quantity of the drug, your prior criminal history, and the circumstances of the offence. For first-time offenders with small quantities, you may face a fine, a community-based order, or a short custodial sentence. More serious cases involving larger quantities or repeat offences can result in significant imprisonment terms. Possession of large commercial quantities is treated much more severely than personal use amounts. The specific penalty applied will vary considerably depending on individual circumstances. If you're facing drug possession charges in Melbourne, it's important to get legal advice tailored to your situation. There are 69 criminal lawyers listed on LawConnect in Melbourne who can review the details of your case and advise you on potential outcomes and your defence options.
What is common assault in Melbourne?
Common assault in Melbourne is an offence under Victorian law that involves applying force to another person without their consent, or threatening to apply force in a way that causes the person to apprehend immediate harmful or offensive contact. It can also include spitting on someone. Common assault is generally considered a less serious form of assault compared to aggravated assault, though it still carries criminal penalties. The specific circumstances of each case, including the nature of the force used, the relationship between the parties, and whether weapons were involved, will affect how the matter is treated by the courts. If you are facing common assault charges in Melbourne or need advice about such a matter, speaking with a criminal lawyer in the area can help you understand your options and the potential outcomes.
What is a spent conviction in Melbourne?
A spent conviction in Victoria is a criminal conviction that can be treated as if it never occurred after a certain period of time has passed without further offences. Once a conviction becomes spent, you generally do not need to disclose it when applying for employment, housing, insurance, or other purposes, with some exceptions for sensitive roles involving children, vulnerable people, or certain professional positions. The time it takes for a conviction to become spent depends on the type and seriousness of the offence, as well as whether you receive any additional convictions during the waiting period. Victorian law sets out specific timeframes for different offences. If you have a criminal record and want to understand whether your conviction may be spent, or if you need advice about your specific situation, speaking with a criminal lawyer in Melbourne can help clarify your rights and obligations. There are 69 criminal law firms listed on LawConnect that service the Melbourne area and can provide tailored guidance.
What are the sentencing options in Melbourne?
In Victoria, sentencing options depend on the nature and severity of the offence. Courts may impose custodial sentences (imprisonment), non-custodial orders such as community correction orders or suspended sentences, fines, or a combination of these. For less serious matters, courts can also order recognisance or discharge without conviction. The specific sentencing options available vary according to the offence type and the maximum penalty prescribed in the relevant legislation. Factors like the offender's circumstances, the victim's impact, and aggravating or mitigating factors influence the sentence imposed. If you're facing criminal charges in Melbourne, speaking with a criminal lawyer can help you understand the sentencing options that may apply to your particular situation. LawConnect has 69 criminal law firms listed in Victoria who can provide guidance on sentencing matters.
What should a character reference letter for court include?
A character reference letter for court should be typed on letterhead, signed and dated, and addressed to the presiding judge or magistrate. It should be written specifically for the court appearance and focus on quality over quantity, with three references generally suitable for less serious offences. The letter should come from someone who knows the accused well, such as family, employers, friends, community members, or professionals like doctors or counsellors. It should highlight the person's positive attributes, law-abiding history, community contributions, and how the charge relates to their overall character. The reference should explain who the writer is, how long they have known the accused, specific examples of their good character, and potentially how sentencing might affect their employment, family or community involvement. Avoid generic letters addressed to whom it may concern, as these carry little weight with the court.
What counts as fraud in Melbourne?
In Victoria, fraud is a criminal offence involving dishonest conduct where you use deception to acquire property belonging to someone else, obtain a financial advantage, or cause financial disadvantage to another person. The key elements are deception and dishonesty. Deception means deliberately and intentionally misleading someone through what you say or do, such as misrepresenting your intentions or gaining unauthorised access to someone's computer or accounts. Dishonesty is assessed by the standard of an ordinary person—would a reasonable person consider your conduct dishonest? You can be charged with fraud even if money was exchanged, provided the prosecution proves you acted deceptively or dishonestly. If you're facing fraud charges in Melbourne, criminal lawyers can assist with your defence and help protect your rights.
What are the grounds for bail in Melbourne?
In Victoria, bail is granted or refused based on specific legal tests that a decision-maker must apply. For many offences, the primary test is whether the person poses an unacceptable risk. A decision-maker must consider whether the accused is likely to fail to attend court, commit a serious offence while on bail, interfere with witnesses or evidence, or risk the safety or welfare of others. If the risk is too high and cannot be reduced through bail conditions, bail will be refused. For more serious offences, an additional compelling reasons test applies, making bail harder to obtain. Bail can be decided by police, a bail justice, or a court, depending on the offence. If police refuse bail, the matter goes to a bail hearing before a bail justice or court. Common conditions may include reporting to police, living at a specific address, curfews, or providing a bail guarantee. If you are facing a bail application in Melbourne, criminal lawyers are available through LawConnect to assist you, with 69 firms listed in the area and several offering emergency or after-hours services.

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