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Criminal Defence.

Criminal Lawyers Canberra.


When you are fighting the fight of your life, rest assured.

We’ve got your back.

Let us fight fearlessly for you.

Recommended by Doyles

Recommended Criminal Defence Lawyers in Canberra

The Doyles Guide is a comprehensive and independent directory that showcases Australia's best firms and lawyers. We are proud to be recommended and identified as Leading Criminal Defence Lawyers in Canberra. To be featured in 2022 among the leading Canberra Criminal Defence Lawyers practising in criminal law matters we were identified by our fellow Canberra & ACT criminal defence lawyers and barristers for our expertise and abilities in the area.

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Riotact

Best Criminal Law Firms in Canberra

Conversations about life in Canberra and the surrounding region live on Riotact.  Riotact has a commitment to providing balanced, relevant local content, produced by professional journalists.  Andrew Byrnes Law Group is proud to have been featured amongst the best law firms in Canberra. 

Read the review here

Canberra Weekly Magazine

Canberra's Best Criminal Lawyers

Canberra Weekly Publication

Canberra Weekly is a community-focused and Canberra-centric magazine, online website and social profiles. Andrew Byrnes Law Group is proud to have been featured amongst the best criminal lawyers in Canberra in 2022.

Read the review here

Best in AU

5 Best Criminal Lawyers in Canberra

Best In Au Publication

Andrew Byrnes Law Group is proud to have been featured in an article recently on the best au website published by Jeffrey Ryan which featured us as one of the five best criminal defence lawyers in Canberra.

Read the review here

Andrew Byrnes Law Group is a criminal law firm that prides itself on fighting fearlessly and aggressively to ensure that you get the best possible outcome if you have been charged with a crime. We offer a free case assessment so that you can get an idea of what to expect and how we can be of assistance to you.

If you are facing criminal charges, you will want an experienced criminal lawyer on your side. Our team has fought in the most serious of criminal cases and in cases where there is less on the line. We recognise that each and every criminal charge is important and we take every criminal law matter as seriously as the next and don't roll over when the going gets tough. To put matters simply, our law firm is home to the best criminal lawyers Canberra has to offer.

heated argument

When the Police Charge you with a Criminal Offence – Contact Us First.


The job of the police and prosecutors is to try to prove the case against you. It’s not your job to prove your innocence. Our focus is on making the police and prosecutors’ job as difficult as possible and fighting fearlessly so that you get the best possible result in your case.


We will help you understand what your options are and what legal strategy or defence to adopt so that you can secure the best possible outcome. Defence of criminal law matters is an art – don’t hire a criminal lawyer who will just turn up on the day. Hire a criminal lawyer who truly has your best interests at heart.


Consistent with our mission statement and our deliberate difference from the rest, when we take on a case, we assess what needs to be done at the outset and offer fair, fixed fees for your case. It doesn’t matter if you plead guilty or not to the criminal offence – we offer fixed fees so you know how much each stage of the case will cost you. Nobody likes bill-shock.

Aggressive Representation from Skilled and Experienced Canberra Criminal Lawyers.


The experienced Canberra criminal lawyers at Andrew Byrnes Law Group provide competent, fearless and aggressive representation to clients charged with any criminal offence. Our familiarity with the ACT criminal courts means we can anticipate and counteract prosecution strategies effectively. If you are located in Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Wollongong, Yass, Cooma, Wagga Wagga, or the surrounding areas, working with an experienced criminal defence lawyer from one of Australia's most reputable criminal law firms can make a massive difference in your case.


Here are some of the criminal cases we take on:


Traffic & Driving Offences.


Have you been charged with a traffic-related offence? Traffic and driving offences in Australia are not taken lightly. While traffic and driving offences may seem minor, they are often a precursor to more serious traffic offences and can lead to a criminal record. Our Canberra criminal lawyers can defend you against any traffic and driving charges so that you can avoid harsh penalties and maintain a clean record.

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A person is holding the steering wheel of a car.

Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs).


Are you looking for a criminal lawyer who can assist you with AVO matters? Whether you are an applicant who wants to ensure your order is made or a respondent who is looking to have a vexatious order withdrawn or thrown out the court, our criminal lawyers Canberra are experts in AVO proceedings and can help you get the results you seek.

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A person is signing a restraining order with a pen.

Drug Offences.


If you find yourself facing drug charges, you need a criminal defence lawyer on your side who you can trust to serve your best interests. Our experienced criminal lawyers Canberra can provide clear advice about charges against drug offences and provide top-notch legal representation to clients when needed.

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a person putting illegal substance in their pocket

Murder and Manslaughter.


Have you been charged with murder? Murder and manslaughter are both extremely serious criminal charges that involve the death of another person. If you've been charged with any of these two grave criminal offences, our Canberra criminal lawyers will formulate a strong defence strategy for you.

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A forensic scientist is working at a crime scene behind a crime scene do not cross tape.

Fraud.


Wondering whether you need the expertise of a criminal lawyer for your fraud charge? Fraud offences carry heavy penalties that can have devastating impacts on your future if convicted. If you are being investigated for fraud or have been charged with fraud, we highly advise that you seek legal representation from our criminal lawyers Canberra immediately to give yourself a better chance of securing the best outcome possible in your case.

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two professionals doing financial analysis

Assault.


Are you facing an assault charge? If you have been charged with assault, it is important to seek legal advice from our experienced criminal lawyers Canberra as soon as possible. The consequences of an assault conviction can be quite harsh, with penalties ranging from fines to actual imprisonment. So you need to act fast.

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a stressed out woman

Property Offences.


Do you need expert legal advice for a property-related offence? Property charges are considered to be less serious than violent crimes or public order offences, but they can still carry substantial penalties if found guilty. This means it is important to contact a criminal lawyer if you or someone you care about has been accused or charged with a property-related crime.

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thief breaking into car

Domestic Violence Charges.


Facing domestic violence charges? Domestic violence is a very serious matter that can lead to substantial consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, restraining orders, and a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. For these reasons, it’s important to contact a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defence lawyer as soon as possible.

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an example of domestic violence

Our Canberra criminal lawyers also take on other criminal matters, including:

  • Sexual offences.
  • Theft and robbery.
  • Domestic violence offences.
  • Breaches of protection orders.
  • Drug and drink driving offences.
  • Bail applications.

Contact the Experienced Canberra Criminal Lawyers at Andrew Byrnes Law Group.


If you are facing the possibility of prison time, a criminal indictment, have been arrested, or want to avoid a criminal conviction, contact the experienced criminal defence lawyers at Andrew Byrnes Law Group today. Our expertise in all criminal matters ensures that we can help lead you through the Australian criminal justice system.


So, what else are you waiting for? If you want to work with a criminal lawyer who will fight tooth and nail to secure the best possible outcome for your case, give us a call today on 02 6210 1075 or book a free meeting with one of our experienced criminal defence lawyers.


You deserve competent, fearless and aggressive criminal defence representation and top-notch legal advice from the best criminal lawyers Canberra.

criminal defence lawyers having a meeting

Criminal Defence Lawyer FAQs.


  • What should I do if I’m charged with a criminal offence?

    When the police charge you with a criminal offence – contact the best criminal lawyers Canberra as soon as possible.


    The job of the police and prosecutors is to try to prove the case against you. It’s not your job to prove your innocence. At our criminal law firm, our focus is on making the police and prosecutors’ job as difficult as possible and fighting fearlessly so that you get the best possible result in your case.


    We will help you understand what your options are and what legal strategy or defence to adopt so that you can secure the best possible outcome. Defence of criminal law matters is an art – don’t hire a lawyer who will just turn up on the day. Hire a criminal lawyer who truly has your best interests at heart.


    Consistent with our mission statement and our deliberate difference from the rest, when we take on a case, we assess what needs to be done at the outset and offer fair fees for your case.

  • What are the consequences of a criminal record?

    Having a criminal record in Australia can have significant detrimental effects on an individual's life. It signifies a past conviction for wrongdoing, whether minor or major, with some convictions becoming spent after a certain period of time, except for serious offences like murder.


    A criminal record tarnishes credibility, consequently limiting your future opportunities. Here are a few examples:


    • Employers routinely do background checks, and a criminal record often leads to job denials.
    • Landlords may reject rental applications based on criminal records.
    • Travelling can also be complicated, impacting visa applications and passport acquisition, especially for international trips.

    Seeking legal representation from the best Canberra criminal lawyers is a must if your goal is to mitigate the potential long-term consequences of a criminal record, whether through conviction avoidance or sentence reduction.

  • How can a criminal lawyer assist in my defence?

    A criminal defence lawyer can provide invaluable assistance by analysing your case, identifying potential defences, and advocating for your rights throughout the legal process. The criminal lawyers Canberra at Andrew Byrnes Law Group are well-versed in the complexities of criminal law and possess the necessary skills and experience to challenge the prosecution's evidence, negotiate plea deals, and present your case effectively in criminal courts.

  • What are the available defences for common criminal charges?

    The defences available depend on the specific charges against you. Some common defences include lack of intent, alibi, insanity, self-defence, and duress. It's essential to consult with an experienced criminal defence lawyer who can analyse the specifics of your case and advise on the most appropriate defence strategy.

  • What are my rights when interacting with law enforcement?

    In any encounter with law enforcement, you have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to refuse a search unless the police have a warrant, as well as the right to legal representation. If arrested, you are entitled to know the charges against you and have access to a solicitor. Get in touch with the best criminal lawyers in Canberra if you ever find yourself in this situation.

  • Can I appeal a criminal conviction?

    Yes, you can appeal a criminal conviction. The process generally involves filing a notice of appeal, after which a higher court will review the case. The grounds for appeal can include errors of law, fact, or both.

  • Why would someone hire a criminal lawyer?

    Someone might hire a criminal lawyer to defend against criminal charges, no matter how severe.


    Criminal law is a very complex area of practice, and only criminal law specialists like Andrew Byrnes Law Group have the expertise and experience to deliver results that can mean the difference between jail time or walking free.


    Our criminal lawyers can provide critical legal advice, construct a strong defence strategy, and represent clients in court to help them secure the best possible outcome.


    Without expert representation, individuals risk facing harsher penalties and potentially long-term consequences.

  • What is the difference between a summary offence and an indictable offence?

    The key distinction between these two criminal offences lies in the seriousness and complexity of the offence. A summary offence is a less severe offence and is typically heard and decided by a magistrate in a local court without a jury. On the other hand, an indictable offence is more serious and complex, necessitating a trial in a higher court with a judge and potentially a jury, allowing for a more detailed legal process. Indictable offences carry potentially heavier penalties and generally require legal representation.

  • How can I avoid receiving a criminal record for minor offences?

    It may be possible to avoid a criminal record for minor criminal offences through diversion programs or by receiving a non-conviction order. Legal representation can greatly enhance your chances of achieving such outcomes, so reach out to the best criminal lawyers in Canberra right away.

  • What factors can influence the severity of sentencing for a criminal charge?

    Several factors can influence the severity of sentencing, including the nature and gravity of the offence, the offender's criminal history, the harm caused to the victim, and the offender's remorse or lack thereof.

  • How long do criminal convictions stay on my record?

    In Australia, the duration for which criminal convictions stay on your record varies based on the severity of the offence and the jurisdiction in which you were convicted. Generally, criminal convictions remain on your record indefinitely unless they become spent under the Spent Conviction Scheme.

  • What should I look for when hiring a criminal lawyer for my case?

    When hiring a criminal lawyer, one of the most important things to consider is experience. Look for a criminal lawyer with extensive knowledge of criminal defence and who is familiar with the court system in your area. These types of criminal lawyers are more likely to be able to help you achieve a favourable outcome, especially in complex criminal cases where the evidence against you is substantial.


    You should also look for a criminal lawyer who has a proven track record of success and can provide references from previous clients.


    Finally, make sure to seek a criminal lawyer who you trust and feel comfortable with, as they will be representing your interests in a highly personal and potentially life-changing matter.


    If you are facing serious charges, you need quality legal services from the best criminal lawyers Canberra.

What Our Valued Clients Say

About the Canberra Criminal Lawyers at Andrew Byrnes Law Group.


Andrew Byrnes - one of the best Canberra solicitors

Accused of a Crime or Arrested and Charged With One?

Speak to a criminal defence lawyer at our Canberra law firm and get the legal advice and representation you deserve.

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