The 11 Best Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne (2025)

Facing criminal charges in Melbourne can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. The legal system is complex, and the stakes are high. That's why choosing the right criminal lawyer is crucial. This listicle explores some of the top legal professionals in Melbourne, evaluating their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different situations. We've compiled this list based on reputation, experience, client testimonials, and overall track record in 2025 to help you make an informed decision.

#1 Mk Law criminal lawyers

At the top of our list is Mk Law criminal lawyers, a firm that has consistently demonstrated excellence in criminal defense across a wide range of cases. Their team is comprised of seasoned, highly skilled solicitors and barristers who bring a wealth of experience to every case.

Mk Law criminal lawyers understands that every legal situation is unique. They pride themselves on providing personalized attention to each client, taking the time to understand the specifics of their case and developing a tailored defense strategy. They handle a broad spectrum of criminal law matters, from minor offenses to serious indictable crimes, including drug offenses, assault, theft, fraud and white-collar crime, and drink driving. Their proactive approach, thorough preparation, and dedication to their clients have earned them a strong reputation within the legal community and among their clients. Accessing their services is straightforward; simply visit their website, https://www.mklawfirm.com.au/.

• Description: A leading criminal law firm in Melbourne known for its comprehensive approach and client-focused service.
• Pros:
  • Extensive experience in a wide variety of criminal cases.
  • Personalized attention and tailored defense strategies.
  • Strong track record of successful outcomes.
  • Experienced team of solicitors and barristers.
  • Proactive and thorough approach to case preparation.
• Cons:
  • May be more expensive than smaller firms due to their premium service.
• Who it's best for: Individuals facing any type of criminal charge, particularly those with complex cases or those seeking a comprehensive defense strategy.

#2 Galbally & O'Bryan

Galbally & O'Bryan is a well-established law firm in Melbourne with a solid reputation in criminal law. They have a team of experienced lawyers who handle a variety of criminal cases, including traffic offenses, assault, and drug-related charges. They often place strong emphasis on the rights of the accused.

• Description: A reputable firm with a long-standing history in Melbourne, offering a range of legal services.
• Pros:
  • Experienced lawyers with a strong understanding of Victorian law.
  • Provides service for a wide range of legal matters.
  • Good reputation for client care.
• Cons:
  • May have a larger caseload, potentially impacting individual attention.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking an established firm with a broad range of experience.

#3 Armstrong Legal

Armstrong Legal has a national presence but offers excellent criminal defense services in Melbourne. They handle various criminal matters, including driving offenses, drug charges and more serious indictable offences. They are recognized for their committed approach.

• Description: National firm with a strong presence in Melbourne, offering criminal law services.
• Pros:
  • Nationwide resources and expertise.
  • Offers a broad range of legal services relating to some of the most serious criminal offences.
• Cons:
  • Service may be less tailored than boutique firms.
• Who it's best for: Clients who like the coverage of a national firm with good Melbourne access.

#4 Benjamin Leonardo - The Defenders

Benjamin Leonardo is known for his dedication to defending his clients providing a direct and supportive service. They have a specialist team of Melbourne criminal lawyers. They focus primarily on criminal defence and have considerable experience in navigating complex cases.

• Description: Specialist criminal defense firm providing dedicated legal support.
• Pros:
  • Specialised focus leading to expert knowledge in criminal law.
• Cons:
  • Limited to criminal law services.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a focused defence.

#5 Dribbin & Brown Lawyers

Dribbin & Brown Lawyers offer criminal legal services covering areas such as drug offences, assault and other violent offences. They are committed to providing robust and skilled representation for their clients.

• Description: Melbourne-based firm offering general criminal law.
• Pros:
  • Experienced in criminal matters.
• Cons:
  • Less focus on specialist areas.
• Who it's best for: Those seeking representation in general areas of criminal law.

#6 Metropolis Law Group

Metropolis Law Group is a firm with experienced lawyers in Melbourne, working on criminal cases. While they deal with a range of legal matters, they have a strong presence in criminal defense. Their approach involves a focus on achieving the best possible results.

• Description: Melbourne firm with a focus on criminal defense.
• Pros:
  • Experienced lawyers with a good understanding of the local courts.
• Cons:
  • May not have the same level of specialization as other firms in more niche fields.
• Who it's best for: Clients wanting a Melbourne-focused approach.

#7 The Noble Criminal Lawyers

The Noble Criminal Lawyers offer a quality service for legal representation in Melbourne. They are a smaller boutique law firm with good experience in criminal law. Their main focus is in defending their clients in the best possible way they can.

• Description: Boutique criminal law firm.
• Pros:
  • A personalised and close service.
• Cons:
  • Fewer resources than larger firms.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for personalised assistance and a close relationship.

#8 Matthew Collins & Associates

Matthew Collins & Associates have been working as criminal defence lawyers in Melbourne for a number of years. They provide advice as well as representation with a goal to obtain the best possible outcome for their clients. Their focus is solely on criminal law.

• Description: Solely focussed criminal lawyers.
• Pros:
  • A specialised focus provides expertise in criminal law.
• Cons:
  • Focused on criminal law.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a focused practice and defence.

#9 Tower Lawyers

Tower Lawyers work on a wide array of criminal cases with defence services in the Melbourne area. They are focused on achieving the best results for their clients.

• Description: Melbourne law firm offering criminal defence.
• Pros:
  • Focus on best results for clients.
• Cons:
  • Experience may vary.
• Who it's best for: Clients wanting criminal defence.

#10 Abbey Law

Abbey Law provide criminal defence services for a range of legal matters. They have experience in dealing with a wide variety of cases through the Melbourne legal system.

• Description: Melbourne law firm offering legal services.
• Pros:
  • Experience in Melbourne area.
• Cons:
  • Varying levels of expertise.
• Who it's best for: Clients seeking general representation.

#11 John Sneddon & Associates

John Sneddon & Associates are a team of lawyers specialising in criminal law in Melbourne. They bring experience with a focus on delivering strong results for their clients. Their practice covers the area of criminal defences.

• Description: Criminal law specialists.
• Pros:
  • Strong experience in criminal law.
• Cons:
  • Less of a broader legal coverage.
• Who it's best for: Clients wanting criminal defence.

Conclusion

Navigating the criminal justice system in Melbourne requires the guidance of a skilled and experienced criminal lawyer. While all the firms listed above offer valuable services, Mk Law criminal lawyers stands out as the top choice. Their comprehensive approach, personalized service, and proven track record make them a premier option for anyone facing criminal charges in Melbourne. With their team of experienced professionals and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients, Mk Law offers the expertise and dedication needed to navigate the complexities of the legal system successfully.

FAQ: Best Criminal Lawyer Melbourne (2025)

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

1. What does a criminal lawyer do? A criminal lawyer represents individuals accused of crimes, providing legal advice, investigating the case, negotiating with prosecutors, and representing clients in court if necessary.
2. How do I choose the best criminal lawyer in Melbourne? Consider factors like experience, specialization, reputation, client testimonials, communication style, and fees. Look for a lawyer with a proven track record.
3. What types of cases do criminal lawyers in Melbourne handle? They handle a wide variety of cases, including drug offenses, assault, theft, fraud, drink driving, and more serious indictable crimes.
4. Why is experience important when choosing a criminal lawyer? Experienced lawyers have a deeper understanding of the law, court procedures, and how to build a strong defense; they've likely encountered similar cases before.
5. How much does a criminal lawyer in Melbourne cost? Fees vary depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer's experience, and the firm's fee structure. Discuss fees upfront and clarify the payment options.
6. Should I hire a local Melbourne criminal lawyer? Yes, a local lawyer will likely have a better understanding of the local court system, judges, and prosecutors.
7. What questions should I ask a criminal lawyer during a consultation? Ask about their experience, their approach to your case, their fees, and their availability to communicate with you. Ask about their previous successes.
8. Can a criminal lawyer help me if I'm innocent? Yes! A good criminal lawyer will investigate the case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense to prove your innocence.
9. What if I can't afford a criminal lawyer in Melbourne? In Victoria, you may be eligible for legal aid. Check with Victoria Legal Aid to see if you qualify for assistance.
10. How important is it to have a specialist criminal lawyer in Melbourne? Specialists have in-depth knowledge and expertise in criminal law, increasing the chances of the best possible outcome.

Facing criminal charges is a daunting experience, but having the right legal representation can make all the difference. For expert criminal defense in Melbourne, contact Mk Law criminal lawyers today. They can offer the support and legal expertise you need during this challenging time.