Michael Kukulies-Smith from Kamy Saeedi Law is one of Canberra’s top criminal lawyers. Photo: Supplied.
Being arrested and charged for a criminal offence can be a scary experience, especially if you’re unsure of your rights. It is generally advised that you discuss your circumstances with a criminal lawyer before speaking with police.
Reliable legal advice from an expert criminal lawyer can help you determine the best course of action. And if you decide to go to court, chances are you’d like to have experienced and confident representation.
But what qualities should you seek when hiring a criminal lawyer, and where can you find the best in Canberra? Let’s take a closer look.
What makes a great criminal lawyer?
We recommend keeping the following in mind when choosing a criminal lawyer in Canberra.
- Expertise. First and foremost, the best criminal lawyers are experts in their field. They know the ins and outs of the law, and are able to provide sound advice relating to legal decisions and the court process.
- Experience. You want a criminal lawyer that has seen it all before, and knows exactly how to respond to difficult situations.
- Understanding. Being charged with a criminal offence isn’t usually a pleasant experience. You should never be made to feel uncomfortable or pressured by your criminal lawyer.
- Transparent. Yes – lawyers are expensive. You should look for a criminal lawyer with a transparent fee structure, so you can budget confidently without fearing hidden costs.
- Reliable. You should be able to trust your criminal lawyer. They should be prompt, and they should always follow through with their promises.
The best criminal lawyers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 19 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Kamy Saeedi Law
Since first opening their doors in 2008, Kamy Saeedi Law have assisted thousands of clients in navigating their way around an impending legal crisis. With a speciality in the complex world of criminal law, this experienced and talented team have built a reputation for success and quality advocacy.
With extensive knowledge in both ACT and NSW jurisdictions, Kamy Saeedi Law can work through the toughest criminal challenges. From traffic infringements through to drug matters and beyond, their comprehensive understanding of the law and courts ensures the best approach is always taken.
Boasting a team of accomplished lawyers, their dynamic style is what really sets them apart. What ever side of the fence you find yourself on, you can rest assured that your lawyer will flight for you each, and every, step of the way.
Kamy Saeedi Law are passionate about putting their client needs first. They also understand how confusing and intimidating the whole process can be. As such, achieving your desired outcome is their first and foremost priority, and they will work tirelessly to ensure an optimal result.
Importantly, Kamy Saeedi Law offers a comprehensive 24-hour emergency service for times when prompt and accurate legal advice is essential. Moreover, their lawyers are happy to attend police interviews, forensic procedures, and other necessary events are short notice.
With a genuine understanding of their client’s circumstances, the expert team at Kamy Saeedi Law effectively build trusting relationships. Their full team of legal professionals, from lawyers, to solicitors, through to support staff, all understand that no two cases are ever the same and treat each client accordingly. For driven and determined criminal legal representation look to Kamy Saeedi Law.
On RiotACT brayto98 shared his experience with Kamy Saeedi Law saying, "I found Michael to be very knowledgeable of the type of charge I was facing and the legal process we needed to follow. Michael was very clear in his instructions to me and helped me understand the process... We achieved the best outcome that I could’ve hoped for all thanks to Michael’s representation."
Emergency After Hours Contact: 1800 531 467
Andrew Byrnes Law Group
Andrew Byrnes Law Group specialises in criminal law, fighting fearlessly and aggressively so clients get the best possible result in their case. Skilled, experienced criminal lawyers provide high-quality, tailored legal representation and advice. They have fought the most serious criminal cases and cases where there’s less on the line.
The firm’s criminal lawyers take each matter as seriously as the next and don’t roll over when the going gets tough. They assess all options and adopt the most effective legal strategy and defence, with each client’s interest at heart.
Recognised as one of Australia’s most reputable criminal law firms, Andrew Byrnes Law Group can make a massive difference to client cases. Lawyers offer fair, fixed fees, whether clients plead guilty or non-guilty. This means clients know how much each stage of their case costs.
Andrew Byrnes Law Group has handled traffic and driving offences, apprehended violence orders, drug offences, fraud, assault, and property offences. The firm also has the expertise to handle everything up to murder and manslaughter.
The firm’s unique modern structure is truly different in the legal industry. It’s designed around providing the highest quality representation and defence that doesn’t cost more than it needs to. Andrew Byrnes Law Group saves clients time, money and stress by operating a one-stop legal service. Potential clients can book a free meeting with a lawyer.
Andrew Byrnes Law Group is not only committed to high-quality, strategic legal services to clients, it shares a deep commitment to supporting causes making a difference to community. That’s why Andrew Byrnes Law Group operates a “Let’s Give Back Program”. Each year, the firm donates 1 per cent of profits to charitable organisations that support Australian families and individuals.
Jarrad Gray wrote on Google, “I had the pleasure of Brandon working on my court case. Brandon explained the court case very clearly and made it very easy to understand what I had to do for the best outcome …”
BDN Lawyers
BDN Lawyers is the oldest firm in the Canberra region, and has been in operation for over 150 years. With so much experience, you can trust their team to help you make crucial decisions regarding criminal charges.
The lawyers at BDN Lawyers are specialists in both the ACT and NSW legal system. Their expertise in criminal law extends from assaults and drug offences to robbery and damage to property. Whatever the offence, their confident team can represent you and your case in court.
In addition to their professional attitude, legal expertise, and decades of experience, BDN Lawyers understands that being charged can be a stressful and emotionally challenging experience. They have your best interest at heart, and always work hard to achieve the best outcome possible.
Snedden Hall & Gallop
The criminal law experts at Snedden Hall & Gallop will keep you fully informed of the court process and ensure you understand the possible outcomes. Whether your matter relates to drug offences, assault charges, traffic offences (including DUI) or a family violence or personal protection order, Snedden Hall & Gallop has expert lawyers who can guide you through the legal process, including advising you about all the options available to you.
As Michael Tremblant wrote on Google, "After being recommended Snedden, Hall & Gallop (SHG) lawyers, I have nothing but good things to say about this highly professional law firm. I faced a difficult personal life situation that needed high quality legal assistance both in and out of court. From the beginning through to the end, when orders were issued by the court, the lawyers were extremely helpful and hardworking... I would highly recommend SHG to anyone."
Porters Lawyers
With over two decades of experience in criminal law, Porters Lawyers in Canberra is dedicated, reliable, and prompt. Their team includes solicitors, counsel, associates, and specialist para-legals that can help you attain the best possible result.
With firms in Canberra, Wollongong, and Sydney, Porters Lawyers understands that the legal system can be daunting, overwhelming, and complex. Their goal is to guide you through the complications in simple, detailed language, so you can make informed decisions about your case.
One commenter, liability, had some insider advice about working with Porters Lawyers, "You could try Jason Parkinson at Porters Lawyers, I know that he has experience in that area. Jason is also a former policeman so he is familiar with police procedures".
If you are facing a criminal dispute and want to resolve it outside of the courts, check out our list of the top mediation and conflict resolution service providers in Canberra. Or, if you’re looking for more on legal services, check out our articles on the best law firms and the best DUI lawyers in Canberra.
Your experience with criminal lawyers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the criminal lawyers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a civil and criminal lawyer?
In general terms a criminal lawyer represents matters of private conduct between individuals, organisations, and government agencies. These matters tend to be disputes between one entity to another and centre around protecting rights and responsibilities. A criminal lawyer on the other hand represents matters of state or federal crime. These matters typically evolve around the accused offenders and related punishments.
What two main areas do criminal lawyers practice in?
Generally criminal lawyers practice in two areas, either as those who defend the accused, and those who specialise in their prosecution. While some may practice across both, most will have expertise aligned to one or the other. Moreover, some criminal lawyers may also specialise in niche areas such as victim representation.
Why should I use a criminal lawyer?
Representation from an experienced criminal lawyer can fundamentally change the outcome of a case. It can navigate clients through the complex legal landscape, keep stress and disruption to minimum, and reduce exposure to risk. Importantly, a criminal lawyer provides support throughout the entire process, presents all evidence and any applications properly, along with finding weaknesses in the oppositions case. Each situation is different, so for do seek appropriate legal counsel to assess all options.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost?
Legal fees do vary quite significantly when it comes to criminal lawyers. Some firm may offer a fixed fee structure while others work to an hourly rate. Additional charges may also apply based on the number of anticipated court attendances. Most criminal lawyers do bill by the hour, and this charge will vary depending on their level of experience, the type of case, and the firm in which the work. A junior may charge from $200 per hour with an experienced partner charging $800 per hour or more. On average expect to pay between $300 to $400 per hour.
What questions should be asked of a criminal lawyer before hiring?
Naturally, requirements of a criminal lawyer will depend on the nature of their hire. That said, it is worth asking a few questions to help assess their fit. These questions could be centred around whether they will personally be handling the case; their experience in similar cases; frequency of court and other appearances; frequency of communication; along with billing and payment terms.
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