Best Criminal Lawyers Sydney

Expert Criminal Lawyers for Criminal and Traffic Matters

One of Australia’s Most Trusted Criminal Defence Law Firms

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YOUR PRIVACY IS IMPORTANT TO US

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Consistently recognised by Doyle's Guide

The lawyers leading our practice are consistently recognised by Doyle's Guide, featuring across both leading firm and recommended lawyer categories.

Doyle's Guide independently ranks Australia's top lawyers and law firms based on peer review and client feedback across all major practice areas.

Second Tier Leading Criminal Defence Firm

NSW

Leading Lawyer

NSW

Trudie Cameron

Andrew Tiedt

Angela Cooney

Leading Lawyer

Trudie Cameron

Leading Lawyer

NSW

Andrew Tiedt

Recommended Lawyer

NSW

Angela Cooney

Recommended Doyles Criminal Law 2025

Recommended Law Firm

NSW

Leading Lawyer

NSW

Trudie Cameron

Rising Star

NSW

Sophie Ogborne

Leading Lawyer

NSW

Trudie Cameron

Recommended Lawyer

NSW

Angela Cooney

OUR TEAM

Armstrong Legal has a dedicated and experienced team of criminal defence lawyers who practice exclusively in Criminal and Traffic Law. The primary focus of each of our lawyers is the service provided to their clients. We recognise that facing criminal or traffic charges can be confronting and stressful and has potentially serious consequences.

At Armstrong Legal, we understand that being charged with a Criminal or Traffic offence can be an incredibly stressful time and we pride ourselves on our ability to guide you through the process, every step of the way. Criminal and Traffic law can be incredibly complex. It is important to have expert advice in your corner, to help you defend your matter, or obtain a sentence that will not impact your life, family or employment negatively.

With three of our Criminal lawyers recognised by the Law Society of New South Wales as Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law, Armstrong Legal's criminal lawyers have the skill, experience and expertise to handle all aspects of criminal law.

WE HAVE THE EXPERIENCE YOU NEED

Our lawyers practise in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory. We appear in the Local, District, Magistrates and Children's Courts regularly as well as in the Court of Appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeal, and the High Court of Australia.

Criminal Defence Lawyers


Angela Cooney

Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law - National Practice Director – Sydney

Trudie Cameron

Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law - Principal Lawyer | Practice Leader – NSW & ACT

Craig Robinson

Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law - Special Counsel - Sydney

Andrew Tiedt

Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law – Chatswood

Sophie Ogborne

Criminal Law - Solicitor - Sydney

Kent Park

Criminal Law - Senior Associate - Sydney

Stephanie Beckedahl

Criminal Law - Senior Associate - Canberra

Emily Wood-Ward

Criminal Law - Solicitor - Sydney

Sheridan Gow

Solicitor - Criminal Law - Sydney

Ruby Hasler

Criminal Law - Solicitor - Chatswood

Shane McMaster

Trial Advocate - Darwin

Learn more about Best Criminal Lawyers Sydney

When criminal or traffic charges can affect your livelihood, reputation and family responsibilities, you deserve clear answers and steady support. We appreciate that the risk of penalties, such as fines, licence loss or imprisonment, can leave you feeling unsure. Legal matters often involve confusing terms and procedures, and contradictory online information can make it hard to know what advice is relevant to you. The uncertainty surrounding proper guidance can also make early decisions, such as speaking to the police, seem risky. That's where we come in at Armstrong Legal; for more than 30 years, our nationally recognised law firm has been offering practical, timely advice that explains what happens next in direct, plain language. When it comes to criminal defence lawyers, our team includes Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law who are recognised by the Law Society of New South Wales for their expertise and skill. Operating across different states and territories, our firm also continues to build on a reputation for professionalism and reliability through consistent acknowledgement in Doyle's Guide. So, whether you were looking up "best criminal lawyers Sydney" or "crime lawyer", know that we give you honest communication, as well as realistic expectations about outcomes and costs.

Every year, Armstrong Legal handles more than 1,000 criminal and traffic matters. You can get expert legal advice since each lawyer appears in court almost every day, and our regular presence gives us a grounded, current perspective on court procedures, judicial expectations and prosecution tactics. We represent clients facing a wide range of charges, such as assault occasioning grievous bodily harm, drug charges and fraud. However, remember that each case is unique, and the seriousness of the offence and the court in which it is heard may shape the legal defence strategy we recommend. When charged with criminal offences, you must make critical decisions, such as whether to plead guilty or not guilty, and our advice will help you determine the best option for you. If you make a not guilty plea, we can determine whether a legal or factual defence, including self-defence or mistaken identification, may apply to your circumstances. So, regardless of whether you're looking up "best criminal lawyers Sydney", "best criminal lawyer in Sydney" or "best lawyer for false accusations", you can trust that each matter is thoroughly analysed and prepared, with your case positioned for the best possible outcome.

After you contact Armstrong Legal by phone or online enquiry, a lawyer will get in touch with you directly to assess your matter promptly and clearly. That first discussion will review your charge, court notice and all key facts to identify immediate priorities and map out what follows. We support you through every step, starting with the early choice to plead guilty, contest the charge or seek bail. Beyond this structured explanation, our team provides you with clear direction through the court system. This may involve the Local, District, Magistrates, County or Children's Courts and, in some cases, even extend to the Court of Appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeal or the High Court of Australia. Whether you were searching for help with "first offence drug driving QLD", "traffic law" or something related, you can trust that we prioritise clear and steady communication. Throughout the process, you'll receive updates on your next court date, how the case is progressing and what lies ahead. A large selection of practical resources from criminal lawyers is also available on our website to help you make informed decisions and access up-to-date information. If you've been looking up "property recovery order NSW" or "best criminal defence lawyers Sydney", contact us today and take the first step towards understanding your legal position.

Recommended by Criminal law clients

I highly recommend Angela Cooney. She’s been professional, supportive, and extremely knowledgeable throughout my case. Angela took the time to explain every step of the process, kept me informed, and genuinely cared about achieving the best outcome. Her attention to detail and calm, confident approach made a stressful situation much easier to handle. I’m very grateful for everything she’s done.

We are here to help you

Our team are experienced in every aspect of Criminal and Traffic law – no matter what the charge, or what location in VIC you are in.

  • Competitive rates

    Our lawyers will be able to provide you with a cost estimate in your initial conference.

  • Clear communication

    We pride ourselves on our ability to provide you with clear legal advice in a way that you can understand.

  • Industry experts

    In our national team, we have Three accredited Criminal Law Specialists, and two of our lawyers and our firm has been recognised by the Doyles guide as industry leaders for many years running.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Criminal Lawyers Sydney

How can I compare the best criminal lawyers Sydney has available?

When deciding whether to engage a criminal defence lawyer for Court representation in Sydney, it is important to consider both their experience and professional recognition. 

Criminal charges can affect employment, professional licences, family relationships and future opportunities, so many people value legal representation for criminal charges from someone with substantial experience in this area of law. 

As such, a lawyer’s or legal defence team’s experience in various criminal matters may indicate that they have developed the skills and preparation necessary to manage complex cases.

Experience and Court exposure often influence perceptions of the best criminal lawyers in Sydney. Armstrong Legal has received acknowledgement in Doyle’s Guide for Criminal Law over several years, including being listed as Defence Law Firm of the Year – 3rd Tier in 2021 and as a Recommended Criminal Defence Law Firm from 2022 to 2025.

In addition, a number of staff at Armstrong Legal have been recognised personally on the Doyles Guide as being amongst the best Criminal and Traffic lawyers in Sydney. 

Apart from peer recognition like the Doyles Guide, a number of solicitors in the Sydney Criminal Law teams are Accredited Criminal Law Specialists. Specialist Accreditation is a structured peer assessment program that enables practitioners to gain recognition as an expert in their chosen area of practice. 

Solicitors who fulfil the requirements of the Program are entitled to use, after their name, the words “Accredited Specialist” in the nominated area of practice.

Specialist Accreditation helps the general public and profession identify solicitors who have demonstrated expertise in a particular area of law.

It is incredibly important for the public to recognise that there is a big difference between criminal defence lawyers who might be advertised as “specialists” or “experts” and those who have actually received that qualification and recognition from the Law Society of NSW. 

These achievements reflect our professional standing within the legal community, but they are not all we have to offer. We greatly value clear communication with our clients, offering legal defence services in Sydney and beyond, tailored to the case’s particular circumstances. 

Every criminal case is unique in terms of its facts, risks and objectives. For this reason, people are often looking for criminal solicitors who can serve as a courtroom advocate and provide practical advice, are responsive and take the time to understand their situation before developing a legal strategy. You’ll find these qualities at Armstrong Legal.

Can I get a lawyer who practises exclusively in Criminal and Traffic Law?

Yes, a person can choose a criminal justice lawyer who focuses exclusively on Criminal and Traffic Law. All of our solicitors in the Armstrong Legal Criminal Law team practice exclusively in these areas. 

Receiving legal advice from a lawyer who practices exclusively in the areas of criminal and traffic law is important. Criminal and traffic matters follow specific rules and often carry serious consequences, including effects on employment, licences, travel and family responsibilities. This is not something where you want to engage a solicitor with little experience in these areas. 

Familiarity with such matters remains an important consideration when comparing the best criminal lawyers Sydney-wide. With that in mind, a trial lawyer who is familiar with and works in these legal areas every day can give focused advice based on the charge, the evidence and the likely path of the case. 

Armstrong Legal has a team dedicated to Criminal and Traffic Law and manages more than a thousand of these matters each year. 

With us, you can connect with a criminal lawyer in various states and territories, including New South Wales. We have a team in Sydney that regularly appears in New South Wales Courts, giving them practical knowledge of how matters progress from first mention through to more complex hearings or trials.

Can a criminal lawyer help me understand the likely timeframes?

Yes, they can explain the timeframes involved in a case. But it’s important to note that even the best criminal lawyers in Sydney can only provide estimates because the exact duration will depend on several factors.

A criminal solicitor can outline what stages may arise and provide a realistic picture of the likely timeframes involved, depending on your own matter.

Generally, the type of charge, the plea entered and the Court’s schedule can all influence how quickly a matter progresses. Some cases move through the system relatively quickly, particularly when a person pleads guilty, and both parties agree on the facts. 

For example, a drink driving lawyer may advise a client to plead guilty, in consideration of the evidence presented and the client’s instructions. In such a situation, the focus often shifts to preparing materials for sentencing and addressing possible outcomes. 

Do I need a criminal lawyer even if I’m not guilty?

Legal advice from an assault lawyer remains important, no matter the plea entered. Preparing for and appearing at a defended hearing or trial is one of the most complicated and legally complex kinds of court proceedings, and it is critical that you have advice to assist you. 

Self-representation can also create serious challenges because Court procedures, evidence rules, deadlines and legal elements can be difficult to manage without experience. 

Not meeting a requirement or missing an important step may affect the progress or outcome of the matter. And while it is a person’s right to enter a “not guilty” plea, the Court actually still needs to determine the matter based on all the evidence available and admissible. 

For instance, legal guidance from sexual assault lawyers can explain to you the options available in your case. By receiving legal advice from a lawyer for assault allegations, a person can approach the Court process with more clarity, stronger preparation and a more realistic perception of what may happen next.

You don’t need to search elsewhere for some of the best criminal lawyers in Sydney. Contact Armstrong Legal about your legal matter today.

About Armstrong Legal

When criminal or traffic charges can affect your livelihood, reputation and family responsibilities, you deserve clear answers and steady support. We appreciate that the risk of penalties, such as fines, licence loss or imprisonment, can leave you feeling unsure. Legal matters often involve confusing terms and procedures, and contradictory online information can make it hard to know what advice is relevant to you. The uncertainty surrounding proper guidance can also make early decisions, such as speaking to the police, seem risky. That's where we come in at Armstrong Legal; for more than 30 years, our nationally recognised law firm has been offering practical, timely advice that explains what happens next in direct, plain language. When it comes to criminal defence lawyers, our team includes Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law who are recognised by the Law Society of New South Wales for their expertise and skill. Operating across different states and territories, our firm also continues to build on a reputation for professionalism and reliability through consistent acknowledgement in Doyle's Guide. So, whether you were looking up "best criminal lawyers Sydney" or "crime lawyer", know that we give you honest communication, as well as realistic expectations about outcomes and costs.

Every year, Armstrong Legal handles more than 1,000 criminal and traffic matters. You can get expert legal advice since each lawyer appears in court almost every day, and our regular presence gives us a grounded, current perspective on court procedures, judicial expectations and prosecution tactics. We represent clients facing a wide range of charges, such as assault occasioning grievous bodily harm, drug charges and fraud. However, remember that each case is unique, and the seriousness of the offence and the court in which it is heard may shape the legal defence strategy we recommend. When charged with criminal offences, you must make critical decisions, such as whether to plead guilty or not guilty, and our advice will help you determine the best option for you. If you make a not guilty plea, we can determine whether a legal or factual defence, including self-defence or mistaken identification, may apply to your circumstances. So, regardless of whether you're looking up "best criminal lawyers Sydney", "best criminal lawyer in Sydney" or "best lawyer for false accusations", you can trust that each matter is thoroughly analysed and prepared, with your case positioned for the best possible outcome.

After you contact Armstrong Legal by phone or online enquiry, a lawyer will get in touch with you directly to assess your matter promptly and clearly. That first discussion will review your charge, court notice and all key facts to identify immediate priorities and map out what follows. We support you through every step, starting with the early choice to plead guilty, contest the charge or seek bail. Beyond this structured explanation, our team provides you with clear direction through the court system. This may involve the Local, District, Magistrates, County or Children's Courts and, in some cases, even extend to the Court of Appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeal or the High Court of Australia. Whether you were searching for help with "first offence drug driving QLD", "traffic law" or something related, you can trust that we prioritise clear and steady communication. Throughout the process, you'll receive updates on your next court date, how the case is progressing and what lies ahead. A large selection of practical resources from criminal lawyers is also available on our website to help you make informed decisions and access up-to-date information. If you've been looking up "property recovery order NSW" or "best criminal defence lawyers Sydney", contact us today and take the first step towards understanding your legal position.

Call 1300 038 223 Lawyers available 24/7 for criminal matters