5 Best Criminal Lawyers in Brisbane
Updated 22 September 2026 · How we rank law firms
Compare the 5 highest-rated criminal lawyers in Brisbane, ranked by Google rating across 972 client reviews (average 5.0 stars). Criminal charges from Brisbane are first heard at the Brisbane Magistrates Court, 363 George Street, Brisbane. A lawyer can appear at the first mention, apply for bail and request the police brief of evidence.
Best criminal lawyers in Brisbane
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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
Robinson Law
4.93score -
5
Watling Roche Lawyers
4.90score -
6
Sibley Lawyers
4.87score -
7
Beavon Lawyers
4.85score -
8
TWC Lawyers
4.84score
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 brisbane”, checked 22 September 2026. Ordered by a review-weighted rating. How we rank law firms
Standouts among criminal lawyers in Brisbane
Highest weighted score
Robinson Law: 5.0 stars from 235 reviews.
Most reviewed
Beavon Lawyers: 258 Google reviews, rated 4.9.
Highest rated with 100+ reviews
Robinson Law: 5.0 stars from 235 reviews.
Where are criminal matters heard in Brisbane?
The Brisbane Magistrates Court deals with simple offences and indictable offences that can be heard summarily, and holds committal proceedings. Indictable offences committed for trial or sentence go to the District Court in the QEII Courts of Law, 415 George Street, and the most serious charges go to the Supreme Court of Queensland in the same complex.
What Queensland rules apply?
Queensland's main criminal offences are in the Criminal Code, which is Schedule 1 to the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld), and many minor offences are in the Summary Offences Act 2005 (Qld). Bail is governed by the Bail Act 1980 (Qld), under which some accused people must show cause why their detention is not justified. Under section 52 of the Justices Act 1886 (Qld), a complaint for a simple offence generally must be made within 1 year.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Brisbane?
Fees for criminal lawyers in Brisbane 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 Brisbane
Legal Aid Queensland provides duty lawyers at the Brisbane Magistrates Court and free advice through its Brisbane office. See Free Legal Advice in Australia for more options.
Brisbane criminal lawyer FAQs
Where are the Brisbane criminal courts?
The Brisbane Magistrates Court is at 363 George Street. The District and Supreme Courts sit in the QEII Courts of Law at 415 George Street.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Brisbane?
Criminal lawyer fees in Brisbane vary with the charge and plea. A Magistrates Court plea is often a fixed fee, while District Court trials cost considerably more. Ask for a written costs disclosure.
Is legal aid available for criminal charges in Brisbane?
Yes. Legal Aid Queensland provides duty lawyers at the Brisbane Magistrates Court and grants aid for criminal matters that meet its means and merit tests.


