6 Tips for Choosing a Criminal Defence Lawyer in NSW

Facing criminal charges can be one of the most daunting and uncertain periods of your life. The last thing you need is to feel overwhelmed by the process of finding the right lawyer for you.  At Morrisons we have over 77 years of combined experience. We have been consistently recognised and awarded as leading criminal lawyers throughout Regional NSW. Our team of experienced lawyers handle a wide spectrum of cases – including homicide and related offences, sexual offences, drug offences, assaults and domestic violence offences, thefts and driving offences. We’re committed to providing you with expert, clear and compassionate legal representation tailored to your individual circumstances.

What Makes a Good Defence Lawyer?

Choosing the right criminal lawyer is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome. A good defence lawyer doesn’t just have expertise; they take a client-focused approach, combining knowledge with strategy and empathy. At Morrisons, we stand out in the following ways:

• Specialised Expertise: Our partners, Graeme Morrison and Matthew Ward, are both accredited specialists in criminal law, a rare distinction awarded by the NSW Law Society.
• Client-Centered Approach: We listen to your concerns and communicate in clear, accessible terms to ensure you’re never in the dark about your case.
• Proven Track Record: With decades of success in similar cases, we bring an invaluable depth of experience to the table.

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in Australia?

It’s important to set realistic expectations about legal fees upfront. The cost of a criminal defence lawyer can vary based on the complexity of your case and the experience of the lawyer.

• For simpler matters like guilty pleas in the Local Court, you can expect fees starting around $2,200.
• If your case involves a not-guilty plea and requires a defence in the Local Court, fees start at $5,000.
• More serious charges, including those heard in higher courts, will typically incur higher costs, ranging from $300 to $500 per hour depending on the lawyer’s experience.

While these fees may seem daunting, it’s important to remember that quality legal representation can significantly affect the outcome of your case.

What charges can a defence lawyer help you with?

A criminal defence lawyer can assist you with any criminal charge you may face. From minor drug possession to murder you can be represented for:

• Traffic offences (e.g speeding, driving while suspended, driving without a licence)
• Drink and drug driving.
• Domestic violence
• Personal violence offences (e.g. common assault, assault causing bodily harm, affray and wounding).
• Drug offences (e.g possession, supply small quantities, supply commercial quantities, cultivation and manufacture).
• Theft
• Manslaughter
• Sexual assault

At Morrisons, we’ve successfully represented clients facing these and many other serious charges, providing strong, strategic defence at every stage of the process.

1. Look for a firm with Accredited Specialists

When you’re looking for top-tier representation, consider engaging an Accredited Specialist in criminal law. An Accredited Specialist is a solicitor who has demonstrated specialised experience and expertise in the area of criminal law. They have passed a number of assessments, which have a very low success rate, to be identified as an expert in their field by the NSW Law Society.

Both Morrisons partners, Graeme Morrison and Matthew Ward have been identified by the NSW Law Society as accredited specialists in criminal law.

Graeme was identified as an accredited specialist in criminal law in 1994 and has maintained his status as an accredited specialist for over 25 years.

Matthew was identified as an accredited specialist in criminal law in 2017. Since then, he has been appointed to the Criminal Law Specialist Accreditation Advisory Committee. This committee is responsible for setting and marking assessments for Solicitors applying to be accredited specialists. In 2024 Matthew was awarded the Regional Lawyer of the Year in the Australian Law Awards.

2. Experience and expertise

There is no substitute for experience. Every criminal case is unique, just as every person is unique. The more experienced your lawyer is, the better they’ll be at tailoring their advice and representation to you. They are able to draw on experience to achieve the best possible outcome and guide you through the process.

3. Look for clear communication and personal compatibility

Your lawyer should be someone you feel comfortable with – someone who listens to your concerns and communicates clearly. The criminal justice system can be confusing, but a good lawyer will take the time to explain the process and legal concepts in a way you understand. Clear, transparent communication is essential as it helps build trust and confidence in your legal representation which can make all the difference when you’re going through a stressful time.

4. Read reviews from previous clients

Always check other people’s experiences and outcomes with the lawyer or law firm. Online reviews can help you find the right criminal defence lawyer for you. They provide a glimpse into how previous clients felt about their experience. Positive feedback can indicate a lawyer who is committed, experienced and successful in their practice. Personal recommendations can also direct you to a reputable lawyer. If you have another lawyer for a different legal issue (like your will or family law) ask them for recommendations for criminal defence lawyers. A referral from a lawyer you already know and trust can be invaluable.

5. Transparency and fees

A good criminal lawyer will be upfront and transparent about their fees. Many will provide a fixed fee for some services, while for certain cases it may difficult to provide an exact figure at the beginning of your case. They should clearly explain their fee structure and provide a written agreement that outlines their fees and any potential additional expenses. Knowing the financial side of your representation from the start can help alleviate some of the stress of having a criminal charge.

6. Local knowledge

Look for a criminal defence lawyer based in the local area. Local criminal lawyers bring valuable knowledge of the specific courts and legal systems where your case will be heard. Their familiarity with Magistrates and Judges can provide a strategic advantage, helping them tailor your defence to the specific dynamics of the Court.

Morrisons Partner, Graeme Morrison has been practising in the Illawarra for over 40 decades. His name is synonymous with criminal defence work throughout the region.   

What can go wrong with poor legal representation?

Unfortunately, your case can result in negative outcomes if you receive poor legal representation.

Imagine yourself, for the first time being charged and having to go to court. You google lawyers in your local area and obtain one who seems quite reputable. You book an initial consultation and the lawyer doesn’t take the time to explain the ins and outs of your case or what to expect at court. The lawyer’s responses to your question are vague and you leave feeling unsettled about your case.

The lawyer does not explain your options and when it comes to making important decisions about your case you don’t completely understand the implications of your choices. You end up with an outcome far worse than you hoped for. You are then blindsided by your final bill. It is filled with charges you didn’t expect.

It’s a frustrating reminder to look for the above green flags when seeking out legal representation.  Your lawyer should communicate clearly, manage your expectations and keep you in the loop every step of the way.

Choosing the right defence lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With Morrisons, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a commitment to clear communication, and a client-centred approach. Whether you’re facing a minor charge or something more serious, we’re here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.

If you’re looking for expert, transparent, and strategic legal representation, Morrisons is here to help.