5 Best Criminal Lawyers in Canberra
Updated 22 September 2026 · How we rank law firms
Compare the 5 highest-rated criminal lawyers in Canberra, ranked by Google rating across 688 client reviews (average 5.0 stars). Criminal charges in Canberra are first heard at the ACT Magistrates Court, 4 Knowles Place, Canberra City. A lawyer can appear at the first mention, apply for bail and seek the brief of evidence.
Best criminal lawyers in Canberra
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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
NBC LAW PTY LTD
4.91score -
5
CODA Criminal Law
4.85score -
6
Andrew Byrnes Law Group
4.83score -
7
BDN Lawyers
4.83score -
8
Harrington Hall Lawyers
4.79score
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 canberra”, checked 22 September 2026. Ordered by a review-weighted rating. How we rank law firms
Standouts among criminal lawyers in Canberra
Highest weighted score
NBC LAW PTY LTD: 5.0 stars from 172 reviews.
Most reviewed
Andrew Byrnes Law Group: 190 Google reviews, rated 4.9.
Highest rated with 100+ reviews
NBC LAW PTY LTD: 5.0 stars from 172 reviews.
Where are criminal matters heard in Canberra?
The ACT Magistrates Court hears summary offences, which are ACT offences with a maximum penalty of 2 years' imprisonment or less, and many indictable offences that can be dealt with summarily. The ACT has no District Court, so serious indictable matters are committed to the Supreme Court of the ACT.
What ACT rules apply?
ACT offences are found mainly in the Crimes Act 1900 (ACT) and the Criminal Code 2002 (ACT). Bail is decided under the Bail Act 1992 (ACT), which sets stricter tests for some serious offences. Commonwealth offences prosecuted in Canberra are also dealt with in the ACT courts.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Canberra?
Fees for criminal lawyers in Canberra 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 Canberra
Legal Aid ACT gives free criminal law advice and runs a duty lawyer service at the ACT Magistrates Court. See Free Legal Advice in Australia for more options.
Canberra criminal lawyer FAQs
Is there a District Court in Canberra?
No. The ACT has no District Court. Indictable matters that are not finalised in the Magistrates Court go to the Supreme Court of the ACT.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Canberra?
Fees in Canberra vary by charge and plea. A Magistrates Court plea is often quoted as a fixed fee, while Supreme Court trials cost considerably more. Most lawyers will give a costs estimate in writing on request.
Is legal aid available in Canberra?
Yes. Legal Aid ACT provides duty lawyers at the ACT Magistrates Court and grants aid for criminal matters that meet its tests.
