The 12 Best Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne (2025)

Finding the right criminal lawyer in Melbourne can be a daunting task. Facing legal challenges demands not only expertise but also a compassionate understanding of your situation. This list compiles some of the city's most respected legal professionals, assessing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision and to guide you through this difficult time.

1. Mk Law criminal lawyers

Mk Law criminal lawyers consistently ranks as one of the top choices for criminal defense in Melbourne. Their reputation is built on a foundation of experienced lawyers, a strong defense track record, and a client-focused approach. The firm handles a wide array of criminal cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies. With a deep understanding of Victorian and Australian law, Mk Law employs a team-based approach, ensuring that every case receives the attention of multiple legal professionals. Their commitment extends beyond courtroom representation, offering guidance and support throughout the entire legal process. You can find more information about their services at https://www.mklawfirm.com.au/.

• Description: A leading criminal defense firm known for its experienced team, strong track record, and client-focused approach. They handle various criminal cases with a dedicated team of lawyers.
• Pros:
  • Extensive experience across a wide range of criminal offenses.
  • Proven track record of successful outcomes.
  • Client-focused approach, with clear communication and support.
  • Team-based approach ensures thorough case preparation.
  • Experienced in both State and Federal criminal law.
• Cons:
  • May be more expensive than some smaller firms.
  • High demand can potentially limit immediate availability.
• Who it's best for: Individuals facing serious criminal charges and looking for a reputable and experienced legal team. Those who value comprehensive support and a proven track record.

2. Galbally & O’Bryan

Galbally & O’Bryan is a well-established firm with a strong presence in Melbourne's legal landscape. They have a long history and a reputation for providing high-quality legal services. The firm is known for its experienced lawyers who handle a variety of criminal law matters.

• Description: A long-standing law firm in Melbourne with a strong reputation.
• Pros:
  • Extensive knowledge and experience in criminal law.
  • A reputable firm.
  • Well-established within the Melbourne legal community.
• Cons:
  • Can be very busy.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking an established firm with a solid reputation.

3. Dribbin & Brown Criminal Lawyers

Dribbin & Brown is a specifically dedicated criminal law firm, focusing solely on criminal defence work. They are known for providing robust defense strategies and are experienced in handling complex cases. They offer 24/7 availability.

• Description: A criminal defense firm offering 24/7 availability and known for its robust defense strategies.
• Pros:
  • 24/7 availability.
  • Focus on criminal defense work.
  • Experienced with complex cases.
• Cons:
  • May not offer services outside the scope of criminal defense.
• Who it's best for: Individuals who require immediate legal assistance and need a strong defense strategy.

4. Stary Norton Halphen

Stary Norton Halphen is a well-regarded firm that is known for its wide range of legal services, including criminal law. They are known to be particularly active in white-collar crime defense. Their team is experienced in both State and Federal matters.

• Description: A reputable law firm with a wide range of legal services, including criminal law, known for white-collar crime defense.
• Pros:
  • Strong history within the Australian legal system.
  • Large firm.
• Cons:
  • Can be difficult to make contact.
• Who it's best for: Those facing white collar criminal charges.

5. Armstrong Legal

Armstrong Legal has a national presence, with a strong Melbourne office. They offer a diverse range of legal services, with a dedicated criminal law team. They are known to be a generalist law firm providing criminal defense.

• Description: A national law firm with a strong presence in Melbourne, offering a range of legal services, including criminal law.
• Pros:
  • National presence, with local expertise.
  • Wide range of legal services.
• Cons:
  • Generalist nature might mean less specialist focus on criminal defence.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking a firm that can handle a variety of legal issues.

6. Foley & Foley Lawyers

Foley & Foley specializes in criminal defence work, providing legal representation on various criminal matters. They are based in Melbourne and have built a respected reputation within the local legal community.

• Description: Melbourne-based firm specializing in criminal defense, known for their specific focus on criminal law.
• Pros:
  • Specialized focus on criminal law.
  • Reputable firm with extensive experience.
• Cons:
  • Smaller firm.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking a dedicated criminal defence lawyer.

7. Robert Stary

Robert Stary is a well-known criminal defence lawyer in Melbourne. He has a wealth of experience in the field, having handled a number of high-profile cases. He is considered one of Melbourne's best.

• Description: Renowned criminal defence lawyer with extensive experience.
• Pros:
  • Significant experience in criminal law.
  • Well-known and respected.
• Cons:
  • Can be selective about cases he takes.
  • High demand
• Who it's best for: Individuals seeking a highly experienced and well-respected criminal defence lawyer.

8. Michael North

Michael North is a respected criminal defense lawyer with a reputation for meticulous work and strategic thinking. He is is known for his commitment to his clients and their cases.

• Description: Reputable criminal defense lawyer known for meticulous work and strategic thinking.
• Pros:
  • Known for his attention to detail.
  • Commitment to clients.
• Cons:
  • Limited information online.
• Who it's best for: Clients seeking a lawyer known for his thoroughness.

9. Jeremy King

Jeremy King is a criminal lawyer with a focus on delivering robust legal defence. He is known for strong courtroom advocacy and a dedicated approach. He has a lot of experience and focuses on criminal law specifically.

• Description: Criminal lawyer with a focus on strong courtroom advocacy and a dedicated approach.
• Pros:
  • Experienced lawyer.
  • Courtroom advocacy experience.
• Cons:
  • Limited Online presence.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking strong courtroom representation.

10. Michael Bach Criminal Defence Lawyers

Michael Bach Criminal Defence Lawyers provides comprehensive legal services for those facing criminal charges. They offer a client-centric approach and ensure all clients feel supported during the legal process. They are a dedicated criminal law firm.

• Description: A dedicated firm for criminal law clients.
• Pros:
  • Good criminal law experience.
• Cons:
  • Reviews are limited.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking a lawyer or firm specifically for criminal charges.

11. Michael Counsel

Michael Counsel practice specifically in the area of criminal defence. They offer a wide range of services and are known as a good option in Melbourne.

• Description: Practitioners in the area of criminal law.
• Pros:
  • Good experience.
  • Local focus.
• Cons:
  • Limited information online.
• Who it's best for: Those in the local area seeking representation.

12. Michael Howard Lawyers

Michael Howard Lawyers is a well-known law office in the Melbourne legal circuit. They offer a wide range of services. The firm is known to offer criminal defense services with a wide array of experience.

• Description: A firm known for its broad range of legal services, including criminal defence.
• Pros:
  • Broad legal experience.
• Cons:
  • May focus on less specialized knowledge.
• Who it's best for: People seeking a generalist legal professional.

Conclusion

When legal troubles arise, the choice of a criminal lawyer is pivotal. While many excellent options exist in Melbourne, Mk Law criminal lawyers stands out as a top choice. Their combination of experience, client-focused approach, and successful track record makes them a strong contender for anyone seeking exceptional criminal defense representation. Their comprehensive approach to criminal cases, combined with a team of seasoned professionals, ensures that clients receive the best possible legal support. Consider the specific needs of your case and weigh the pros and cons of each firm. However, for those seeking the best, Mk Law criminal lawyers clearly sets a high bar.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about finding a criminal lawyer in Melbourne:

What does a criminal lawyer do?

A criminal lawyer, or criminal defence lawyer, represents individuals accused of crimes. They provide legal advice, investigate cases, negotiate with the prosecution, and represent clients in court.

How do I choose the right criminal lawyer in Melbourne?

Consider their experience, specialisation, client reviews, fees, and communication style. Make sure they handle the type of charges against you.

What qualifications should a criminal lawyer have?

A criminal lawyer should hold a Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, be admitted to practice law in Victoria, have experience in criminal law, and ideally, have a strong understanding of relevant court processes.

How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Melbourne in 2025?

Fees vary widely depending on the lawyer's experience, the complexity of the case, and the firm's pricing structure. Costs can range from hourly rates to fixed fees for specific services. It is best to arrange a consultation to confirm an exact cost.

Can a criminal lawyer help with bail applications?

Yes, criminal lawyers can assist with bail applications by preparing the necessary documentation, representing the client in court, and arguing for their release.

What should I bring to my first consultation with a criminal lawyer?

Bring any documents related to your case, a summary of the situation, and any questions you have. Be prepared to discuss the charges, the events leading up to them, and any potential defenses.

What types of cases do criminal lawyers handle?

Criminal lawyers handle a wide range of cases, including theft, assault, drug offences, drink driving, fraud, and more serious crimes like murder.

What is the difference between a solicitor and a barrister in criminal law?

A solicitor prepares the case and briefs a barrister, who represents the client in court. Some specialist criminal lawyers may act as both.

How can I find reviews for a criminal lawyer in Melbourne?

Check online platforms such as Google, legal directories, and social media to find reviews and testimonials from other clients.

What are the benefits of hiring a local criminal lawyer in Melbourne?

A local lawyer will have local knowledge of the courts, judges, and prosecutors. This can be beneficial in navigating the legal system and understanding local court processes.

For expert legal representation and dedicated support, contact Mk Law criminal lawyers today. They can provide the experienced legal guidance you need.

Reach out to Mk Law criminal lawyers to discuss your case and find out how they can help.