5 Best Criminal Lawyers in Adelaide
Updated 22 September 2026 · How we rank law firms
Compare the 5 highest-rated criminal lawyers in Adelaide, ranked by Google rating across 929 client reviews (average 4.9 stars). Criminal charges in Adelaide are first listed at the Adelaide Magistrates Court, ground floor, 260-280 Victoria Square. A lawyer can appear at the first hearing, apply for bail and seek disclosure of the prosecution case.
Best criminal lawyers in Adelaide
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1
Hugo Law Group Editor's pick
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2
Doogue + George Editor's pick
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3
Angus Cameron Partners Editor's pick
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4
WOODS & CO LAWYERS PTY LTD
4.91score -
5
Williams Barristers and Solicitors
4.84score -
6
ASA Lawyers
4.79score -
7
Swan Family Lawyers
4.78score -
8
DBH Lawyers
4.76score
Editor's picks are chosen by our editors and labelled; the firms below them are ordered by score. Source: Google Maps business listings for “criminal lawyer adelaide”, checked 22 September 2026. Ordered by a review-weighted rating. How we rank law firms
Standouts among criminal lawyers in Adelaide
Highest weighted score
WOODS & CO LAWYERS PTY LTD: 5.0 stars from 169 reviews.
Most reviewed
DBH Lawyers: 301 Google reviews, rated 4.8.
Highest rated with 100+ reviews
WOODS & CO LAWYERS PTY LTD: 5.0 stars from 169 reviews.
Where are criminal matters heard in Adelaide?
The Adelaide Magistrates Court hears summary offences and minor indictable offences, and deals with the first stages of major indictable matters. Major indictable offences are committed to the District Court in the Sir Samuel Way Building, 241-259 Victoria Square, and the most serious are tried in the Supreme Court of South Australia.
What South Australian rules apply?
South Australia's main criminal offences are in the Criminal Law Consolidation Act 1935 (SA), with lesser offences in the Summary Offences Act 1953 (SA). Bail is decided under the Bail Act 1985 (SA). Under section 52 of the Criminal Procedure Act 1921 (SA), a summary offence prosecution generally must start within 2 years, or within 6 months after an expiation period where an expiation notice was given.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Adelaide?
Fees for criminal lawyers in Adelaide depend on the matter, the lawyer's seniority and the fee model (hourly, fixed fee or conditional). Before any work starts, a law firm must disclose its costs in writing when they are likely to exceed the disclosure threshold. See How Much Does a Lawyer Cost in Australia? for typical ranges and fee models.
Free and low-cost legal help in Adelaide
The Legal Services Commission of South Australia gives free criminal law advice and duty solicitor help in Adelaide. See Free Legal Advice in Australia for more options.
Adelaide criminal lawyer FAQs
Where are the criminal courts in Adelaide?
The Adelaide Magistrates Court is at 260-280 Victoria Square. The District Court is in the Sir Samuel Way Building at 241-259 Victoria Square.
How long do police have to charge a summary offence in SA?
Generally 2 years from the alleged offence under section 52 of the Criminal Procedure Act 1921 (SA), with a shorter period where an expiation notice was issued.
Is legal aid available in Adelaide?
Yes. The Legal Services Commission of South Australia provides duty solicitors and grants aid for criminal matters that meet its means and merit tests.
