4.9
Over 190 Reviews
MELBOURNE’S BEST CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYERS.
Empower your defence with Melbourne’s leading specialist criminal defence lawyers,
court advocates and intervention order lawyers.
Your future deserves experienced advocacy.
At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, criminal defence isn’t just something we do. It’s who we are. It’s how we show up, in the courtroom, in strategy meetings, and in every late-night call from someone who never thought they’d need us.
We are a specialist criminal law firm based in Melbourne, trusted across Victoria (and nationally) for our sharp advocacy, relentless preparation, and deep care for the people we represent. From drink drives, to serious indictable charges to intervention order matters, we’re the team that other lawyers turn to when it’s not just any case, it’s your case.
Led by award-winning advocate and Accredited Criminal Law Specialist Emma Turnbull, our lawyers appear daily across Victoria’s courts. We know the system, we know the pressure, and we know how to fight when your reputation, career, or freedom is on the line. We don’t just explain your legal options, we give you a roadmap, a strategy, and a voice in a system that can make you feel powerless.
That’s why our commitment to you begins long before we step into a courtroom. From your very first contact with us, you’ll experience the care, clarity, and responsiveness that sets us apart as one of the best criminal law firms in Melbourne. Our team is here to guide you through what can be a stressful and confusing time, with compassion, discretion, and unshakeable advocacy.
From your first call to your final outcome, you’ll have a team behind you that’s united, focused, and fiercely in your corner. Our admin support team listen closely. Our Directors oversee case strategy. And the lawyer handling your case? They’ll keep you informed, prepared, and protected every step of the way.
What Sets Us Apart
Criminal Law, Full Stop. We practise exclusively in criminal defence and IVO matters.
That’s all we do — and we do it well.
In Court, Every Day. Our lawyers appear daily in Magistrates’, County, and Supreme Courts across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
No Fluff. Just Strategy. You’ll always get straight answers and a plan that fits your case, your risks, and your goals.
Boutique With Bite. We’re not a legal factory. We’re a high-performing team with the firepower to handle complex briefs and the heart to treat you like a human being.
Clients Say It Best. Our 5-star Google reviews reflect the results we deliver and the way we show up for our clients.
For Lawyers Who Need a Trusted Referral Partner. We regularly represent clients on behalf of family lawyers, estate firms, and commercial solicitors across Victoria. Whether you’re making a one-off referral or need regular agency support, you can rely on us for expert courtroom advocacy and absolute professionalism. We honour your relationship with the client, and we can appear under your banner or ours. Either way, your client will be in safe, experienced hands.
Don’t Take Chances. Get the Right Team Behind You. When the police are involved, when court is looming, when someone you care about is in trouble, this is not the time for guesswork.
- You need more than a generalist.
- You need a specialist.
- You need a fighter.
- You need Emma Turnbull Lawyers.
Call us or contact us today to speak with the team of criminal lawyers Melbourne turns to when the outcome matters most.
CLIP: Criminal Law Internship Program
At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, we’re not just leaders in the courtroom, we’re champions for the future of criminal law.
The Criminal Law Internship Program (CLIP) is our commitment to supporting, mentoring, and equipping the next generation of criminal defence lawyers. Designed for law students and early career graduates, CLIP offers a rare opportunity to experience the realities of life inside a specialist criminal law firm.
Participants in the program gain exposure to real cases, court work, client interaction, and the day-to-day demands of legal practice. We don’t believe in busywork, our interns are treated as future colleagues. They are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and build the confidence and skillset needed to thrive in the profession.
CLIP isn’t just a professional development program. It’s our way of investing in the legal system for years to come.
To read more about CLIP and for program dates refer to the CLIP website.
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Fantastic. Very empathetic and highly skilled. I can't recommend enough.
When things in life don’t go to plan, it can be difficult to navigate. You can search for answers but you don’t know who to trust.
Sometimes you just have to go with your gut instinct. I am so glad we put our trust in Emma and her team. They were so caring and empathetic and made us feel comfortable. The attention to detail and their skill and professionalism was impeccable and our result exceeded our expectations.
I could not recommend Emma and the team more highly.
Sometimes you just have to go with your gut instinct. I am so glad we put our trust in Emma and her team. They were so caring and empathetic and made us feel comfortable. The attention to detail and their skill and professionalism was impeccable and our result exceeded our expectations.
I could not recommend Emma and the team more highly.
Himangi was absolutely fantastic to deal with. She was very supportive and I am extremely grateful for the outcome she was able to achieve. Would highly recommend!
Roisin Pryor, from Emma Turnbull Lawyers is a highly respected and educated professional lawyer whom will fight for your right and freedom she is worth every cent. Thanks Roisin
Joseph Adamo was great got a good result would recommend him to anybody needing legal representation
Emma and her team are amazing !!! Highly recommend them I'm this field of work !
Emma Turnbull, is a phenomenal lawyer, her skill and professionalism are incomparable. We could not highly enough recommend Emma and her team.
Excellent great results couldn't have asked for any better
Great service and great outcome highly recommend, great communication keep you up to date throw the whole process
If anyone needs a lawyer with an amazing outcome, no matter how minor or major your case is, then you're at the right place. Joseph Adamo, you're amazing cant thankyou enough
What a team, a no B.S attitude and they tell you how it is, having both Adrian and Emma representing me at times I was never left not knowing what was happening, great communication through every step
Jervis has been absolutely wonderful in helping me resolve my legal matter. He is astute, articulate and reassuring when providing his advice and recommendations. Would definitely recommend!
We, Sheikh Family appreciate Nikhil Sood for the work he has done for my brother Mohamud for successfully defending him and getting him released from Custody. i would definitely recommend Emma Turnbull Lawyers especially Mr Sood. Nikhil was very understanding and worked hard for the outcome we achieved today. great work and thank you.
Jervis was awesome to deal with! He was very organised, helpful and professional.
The result l got in court could not have been any better. Should l need help again I will definitely be going back to Jervis.
The result l got in court could not have been any better. Should l need help again I will definitely be going back to Jervis.
Joseph represented me throughout a case which had very little chance for a good outcome, I'm a free man due to his thorough preparation and his belief in me.
Big thank you to Joseph and everyone at the office couldn't of went any better.god bless
Emma Turnbull lawyers,( Georgia and Jervis) wonderful people. Very well organised, professional and mostly they do care about their clients. I thank them for all the help they have given.🙏🙏
Emma Turnbull lawyers are the best lawyers I have ever used and won't change them for the world I used Georgia Hoggs she has never let me down got me out of prison many times with good outcomes she has got my charges thrown out and got me equitted she always kept in contact all my other lawyers from other firms where always letting me down since I used Georgia Hoggs from Emma Turnbull lawyers she has always made me proud I am always happy with the work she done for me thank you Georgia hoggs you are amazing 💯🙏 💖👍
ALWAYS A AMAZING OUTCOME I AM VERY HAPPY THANK YOU GUYS SO MUCH FOR THE HARD AND AMAZING WORK YOU GUYS DO YOU PUT IN A EFFORT APPRICIATE IT SO MUCH 💯%💖
ALWAYS A AMAZING OUTCOME I AM VERY HAPPY THANK YOU GUYS SO MUCH FOR THE HARD AND AMAZING WORK YOU GUYS DO YOU PUT IN A EFFORT APPRICIATE IT SO MUCH 💯%💖
What a brand what a great 2 whrs at simple instructions P.....
Intelligent criminals. People's beware of Emma and Turnbull lawyers. They are treating everyone with contemporary J runawk Dogma. Regards
William Traychevski per Lauren Elizabeth Thorpe (make-up hero or human ecosystem) lawyer under oayh, losing money and criminalised under duress)
Toorak Fine Watches has been a Toorak Institution for over 6yr. We have had our our store, CFO (Lauren. E. Thorpe) uncombujctuously remanded in custordy to the wireless network of corruption and incontemt. We/ I pray for small family based business and start-ups of today that can't get through new couples-dom without an internet trail. God bless
Intelligent criminals. People's beware of Emma and Turnbull lawyers. They are treating everyone with contemporary J runawk Dogma. Regards
William Traychevski per Lauren Elizabeth Thorpe (make-up hero or human ecosystem) lawyer under oayh, losing money and criminalised under duress)
Toorak Fine Watches has been a Toorak Institution for over 6yr. We have had our our store, CFO (Lauren. E. Thorpe) uncombujctuously remanded in custordy to the wireless network of corruption and incontemt. We/ I pray for small family based business and start-ups of today that can't get through new couples-dom without an internet trail. God bless
Disorganised, evasive Ambulance chasers that can't administer a simple release for religious freedom.
The real deal Adrian Lewin Emma Turnbull criminal law, firm
It has been an absolute pleasure working alongside Theo at Emma Turnbull Lawyers. I cannot express my deepest gratitude I have towards Theo, in what was the most difficult time in our lives. Became a stress free and amazing experience. The knowledge and determination Theo and Nikihil both have, we knew we were in safe hands.
Theo came in and made sure my family member got the best outcome possible which he did, and won the appeal. Throughout the whole process Theo was always in contact with myself and took the time to explain everything. We are very blessed for having Theo and Nikihil stand with us, in this difficult time.
I cannot express my heartfelt appreciation to Theo and Nikihil, we wish you both the best in your work endeavours. As you both deserve the world for all the hard work you put in with your clients. All your efforts will not go unnoticed. Thank you.
Theo came in and made sure my family member got the best outcome possible which he did, and won the appeal. Throughout the whole process Theo was always in contact with myself and took the time to explain everything. We are very blessed for having Theo and Nikihil stand with us, in this difficult time.
I cannot express my heartfelt appreciation to Theo and Nikihil, we wish you both the best in your work endeavours. As you both deserve the world for all the hard work you put in with your clients. All your efforts will not go unnoticed. Thank you.
Emma Turnbull lawyers has represented me for many yrs where now we are almost like a family. Had a very good experience with Emma turnbull and Highly Recommended Emma, she always got me very good outcomes. I cannot express my gratitude enough for the exceptional legal support I received from Adrian Lewin and Emma turnbull and all there associates in the firm.
Really appreciated and thank you so much Emma Turnbull for all you have been done for me. You are absolute blessing to me 🙏
Really appreciated and thank you so much Emma Turnbull for all you have been done for me. You are absolute blessing to me 🙏
Nikhill has represented me quite a few times over a span of 3 years and I have always been impressed with what he has done for me.
He gets great outcomes!
He gets great outcomes!
I cannot express my gratitude enough for the exceptional legal support I received from Joseph Adamo at Emma Turnbull Lawyers. Joseph guided me through a difficult and emotionally charged situation involving a family violence intervention order, and his expertise and compassion truly made a world of difference.
Joseph took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly explained the legal process, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable every step of the way. His dedication to my case was unwavering, and I always felt like a priority.
Joseph's knowledge of the IVO process and his ability to strategize and advocate on my behalf were outstanding. He provided clear, honest advice and worked diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for my situation. His attention to detail and commitment to protecting my rights were truly impressive.
Beyond his legal expertise, Joseph showed genuine empathy and support during an emotionally challenging time. He was a source of strength and reassurance, and I felt like I had a true ally by my side. His professionalism and compassion were a perfect balance, and I can't thank him enough for making me feel heard and valued.
I highly recommend Joseph Adamo for anyone seeking legal assistance, especially in matters involving family violence intervention orders. Joseph's dedication, expertise, and compassion are truly unmatched, and I am forever grateful for the positive outcome he helped me achieve.
Thank you, Joseph, for your outstanding service and unwavering support. You've made a significant difference in my life, and I can't recommend you and the firm enough.
Joseph took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly explained the legal process, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable every step of the way. His dedication to my case was unwavering, and I always felt like a priority.
Joseph's knowledge of the IVO process and his ability to strategize and advocate on my behalf were outstanding. He provided clear, honest advice and worked diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for my situation. His attention to detail and commitment to protecting my rights were truly impressive.
Beyond his legal expertise, Joseph showed genuine empathy and support during an emotionally challenging time. He was a source of strength and reassurance, and I felt like I had a true ally by my side. His professionalism and compassion were a perfect balance, and I can't thank him enough for making me feel heard and valued.
I highly recommend Joseph Adamo for anyone seeking legal assistance, especially in matters involving family violence intervention orders. Joseph's dedication, expertise, and compassion are truly unmatched, and I am forever grateful for the positive outcome he helped me achieve.
Thank you, Joseph, for your outstanding service and unwavering support. You've made a significant difference in my life, and I can't recommend you and the firm enough.
Thank you for representing me in court you guys done a fantastic job in beating all the charges that i had against me keep up the good work A++
Thank you for representing me in court you guys done a fantastic job in beating all the charges that i had against me keep up the good work A++
I can’t thank Theo Chrisant enough for his amazing efforts not only in the courtroom but out of the court room where he had patience with a very kind & caring nature his best value would have to be his passion towards getting the results we aim for . You’ll never understand Theo how much you have helped me 👍 thanks Nicole . Kennedy
Had a very good experience with Emma Turnbull Lawyers, Highly recommend James, he got me a very good outcome.
Had a very good experience with Emma Turnbull Lawyers, Highly recommended James, he got me a very good outcome.
Emma turnbull lawyers has represented me for many years now to the point where we are almost like family .
They are very professional at all times and always make me feel confident and safe when they have my back.
Emma turnbull lawyers has some of the most skilled and dedicated people on there team and no matter who you get they will undoubtedly give you there all.
Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me
They are very professional at all times and always make me feel confident and safe when they have my back.
Emma turnbull lawyers has some of the most skilled and dedicated people on there team and no matter who you get they will undoubtedly give you there all.
Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me
Manny is a great man to hire, he's punctual, he's convincing, he's friendly and understanding, he's co-operative, wouldn't hesitate to hire again!
Mark was also a great man, he's just the same as many aswell in those aspects and he really nails the important stuff on the head!
Mark was also a great man, he's just the same as many aswell in those aspects and he really nails the important stuff on the head!
I'm very happy with everything
Manny was very professional, he explained the whole process and fought hard for my rights
Highly recommended 👌
I'm very grateful
Manny was very professional, he explained the whole process and fought hard for my rights
Highly recommended 👌
I'm very grateful
Absolutely class! Nikhil saw me sitting in the court lobby alone and offered to help me for free. Nikhil is a legend and I wish him the best for the future. Would recommend.
Wonderful firm, very professional and compassionate. I was appointed Nikhil as my lawyer. Nikhil, being the highly experienced and dedicated lawyer he is, was able to have my case withdrawn by prosecution. My case was very personal and Nikhil was able to empathise with my situation and helped me to rationalise and focus on what was nessecary. Thanks Nikhil, you are a genuine hero.
Mario from Emma Turnbull lawyers represented my son in court yesterday and with his expertise got my son out of a 2 year prison term and 5000 fine. Mario was amazing and my son only ended up with a small fine. Couldn't ask for a better outcome. Thank you so much Mario.
Great law firm that work with you and get the best results. I would highly recommend this law firm for all your legal matters.
They went above & beyond with everything. Great communication would highly recommend thank you for your hard work & excellent outcome
Very good service , brenda help me with my case and truly happy with the result .
We would just like to thank Manny Brennan for his support and representation. I just wish we had found you earlier. Thank you for your dedication and helping us through a difficult time, I really appreciate your support and guidance and understanding and keeping our family together. I will be forever grateful.
Thank you Brenda and Theo for the outstanding work you guys have done in court not only today on every appearance there has been you guys have gone above and beyond to get the best possible outcome thank you again highly recommend you guys and the team at Emma Turnbull lawyers
I can't thank you enough Nikhil. On such short notice Nikhil came through with an outstanding appearance on my behalf. I know where to send all my criminal mates now. Thank you
Nikhil has been Absolutely amazing in Getting to the bottom of My brothers cases he went over and Beyond to make sure that he got to the end and achieved a good result!! My family and myself really Appreciate your hard work. !! You're a star .
Above and beyond seems standard for Emma Turnbull and her associates! A fantastic experience and an even better result! Many thanks Emma!
Best and professional service from Nikhil Sood, 10/10 a big and greatful thank you for your assistance with my case, would not recommend any eles, most appreciated.
Branda represented my Brother case in court, she been absolutely amazing from beginning to the final of case she’s the best lawyer ever , without her we wasn’t know what we will do with all those matters . Thank you so so much Branda ❤️
Hi, I spoke to Emma and the team. They provided great service. Professional advice. And helped saved me . No body wants to chat to a lawyer but they did make it simple friendly and as stress free as possible. Would recommend.
I can’t thank Theo Chrisant enough for his amazing efforts not only in the courtroom but out of the court room where he had patience with a very kind & caring nature his best value would have to be his passion towards getting the results we aim for . You’ll never understand Theo how much you have helped me 👍 thanks Nicole . Kennedy
I highly recommend Emma Turnbull Lawyers. Joseph Adamo represented my son in court and was fantastic. Matters were explained clearly. He kept in contact through the process. Joseph was very professional. Thank you for a successful outcome.
Emma Turnbull Lawyers took me on as a client at a very late stage in my case and within minutes I had my mind put at ease and was reassured I was going to be in good hands when I entered their office in Melbourne CBD. My lawyer Nikhil Sood stood up in court for me just one time and had come out with the best possible outcome for me that I did not believe myself was going to happen. Highly recommended firm and lawyer. Thanks to all the team.
I had Emma Turnbull’s firm represent me on Tuesday in court and they got the job done straight away and I was very happy with the best result,
I had been twice with a different firm and was getting nowhere just going around in circles wasting time and money.
Emma sent Matt Mc Lellan along to assist me he was great from the second we got to court he did not stop, from talking to prosecutors and magistrate just working his magic,
could not recommend these guys any higher. Emma was awesome to deal with had lots of great ideas which the other firm never thought of which made all of the difference.
Very happy with the result. Just wish I had have found these guys earlier
I had been twice with a different firm and was getting nowhere just going around in circles wasting time and money.
Emma sent Matt Mc Lellan along to assist me he was great from the second we got to court he did not stop, from talking to prosecutors and magistrate just working his magic,
could not recommend these guys any higher. Emma was awesome to deal with had lots of great ideas which the other firm never thought of which made all of the difference.
Very happy with the result. Just wish I had have found these guys earlier
The legal representation and service I received from Theo Chrisant at Emma Turnbull Lawyers has been an absolute blessing. Not only exceeding all expectations in achieving the best result possible with a great outcome, but all-round professionalism in every aspect making what is usually is a stressful and unpleasant experience a relaxing walk through the park. Having suffer from severe anxiety especially in a high pressure and tense situation, Theo really made the effort to understand and connect with me personally making me relaxed and comfortable knowing that I could trust that I was in good hands. I would definitely highly recommend anyone who is in need of legal assistance to go through him, as I am so very fortunate and greatful for everything he has done for me and honestly wouldn't rather have had anyone else by my side on the day.
Emma’s firm represented me today in court, they’ve been absolutely amazing from the initial meet to the final outcome result. We won the case with flying colours, Emma performed exceptionally well, words can not describe the absolute transparency, integrity and honesty they’ve shown along the way. I recommend this firm highly, I am pleased to say firms like this exist today and individuals like Emma. My absolute satisfaction with your services.
Why Choose Us?
With over 100 years of collective experience, we are Melbourne’s leading criminal lawyers specialists. Our firm practice areas cover a wide range of criminal and quasi-criminal matters, from minor traffic offences in the Magistrates’ Court to complex trials in the County and Supreme Courts. We also specialise in appellate law, handling cases in the Court of Appeal and High Court.
Our team includes Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law with the Law Institute of Victoria. Directors Emma Turnbull, Adrian Lewin, Partner Manny Brennan and in house advocate Matt McLellan bring extensive legal knowledge and a track record of success to every case.
Testimonials & Awards
Emma Turnbull Lawyers boasts LIV Accredited Criminal Law Specialists including Directors Emma Turnbull and Adrian Lewin as well as Partner Manny Brennan. You can read more about the rigorous assessment process and why you should choose a specialist criminal lawyer here.
Recognising our industry expertise as a leading criminal law firm, Emma Turnbull Lawyers continues to be listed in Doyles Guide annually. Emma has been a finalist in various industry awards, including Partner and Managing Partner of the Year and in 2024 won the prestigious Wellness Advocate of the Year award. You can read more here.
Follow Our Team
Well-resourced team of specialist defence advocates
Who we are: Learn more about the best criminal lawyers in Melbourne
We have a diverse team of criminal solicitors in Melbourne. Our lawyers have a range of different backgrounds, experience levels and specialties; this means we are able to personally tailor our services to ensure that we are able to meet each of our client’s individual needs, preferences and expectations. All of our criminal lawyers are Melbourne based, giving clients access to a rich hub of legal expertise.
We take a collaborative approach in all of our cases. On top of having a wealth of expertise, we believe that each of the criminal lawyers in our Melbourne team can offer a fresh, unique perspective, enabling us to remain up-to-date with the changing dynamics of the Victorian legal system and remain in front of the rest.
Our Melbourne based criminal lawyers are here to protect, defend and support you. From bail applications to trials to royal commissions, we are well equipped to represent you.
Strong reputation for excellence.
Our dedication to delivering results and maintaining the highest standards has been recognised by our peers and clients alike. We have been included in the Doyle’s Guide list of Leading Criminal Law Firms every year since the firm’s initial inclusion in 2016. This is important as those awards are voted by industry peers. Our team has received many awards for their individual work in the field.
How our Melbourne based criminal lawyers can help you
How our Melbourne based criminal lawyers can help you?
Our in-depth industry experience across a broad range of offences means that no matter your circumstances, you’ll always have the best criminal lawyers in Melbourne defending you every step of the way.
Our team are industry leaders, with a multitude of awards under their belt for client service and industry expertise. We are also an accepted member of Victoria Legal Aid’s exclusive criminal law indictment panel.
Explore our complete range of specialities below:
- Assault
- Bail offences
- Breach offences
- Offences Against Children
- Driving offences
- Drug offences
- Fraud and deception
- Pervert course of justice
- Property offences
- Robbery offences
- Sexual offences
To understand more about what the next steps are and to find the best of Melbourne’s top criminal defence lawyers, contact us today.
Victoria Legal Aid Indictable and Summary Crime Panel
Provided you meet Victoria Legal Aid’s financial means and case merit tests, you may be eligible for legal aid funding. Our partnership with Victoria Legal Aid enables our team to assist you in your legal proceedings with government funding.
Intervention Order Proceedings
Please note we only provide this representation on a privately funded basis. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and the impact they can have on individuals and families. You can rely on our compassionate approach to guide you through the process while safeguarding your rights and interests.
Client Reviews and Testimonies
This includes those facing criminal charges and also intervention order proceedings. Building trust and maintaining strong relationships with our clients are core values at Emma Turnbull Lawyers, and their feedback showcases our dedication and professionalism.
If you are seeking reliable and experienced lawyers in Melbourne or anywhere else in Victoria, Emma Turnbull Lawyers is here to help. We are more than just mouth pieces and will work with you to ensure that your best defence is put forward to protect your rights and interests in court. Our lawyers are career defence advocates and our team is resourced to ensure no stone is left unturned.
Contact our team of criminal defence lawyers today to begin working on the best possible outcome for your case.
Level 9, 552 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000
Contact us today on 03 9077 4834
VICTORIA LEGAL AID ENQUIRIES WELCOME
Emma Turnbull Lawyers are specialist criminal lawyers who represent clients privately and in some circumstances with Legal Aid Funding.
Our expertise has seen us accepted as a member of Victoria Legal Aid’s exclusive criminal law indictable crime panel. This means that if you meet their financial tests and your criminal charges meet their merit test, we can assist you via state funding in your case.
Summary Crime
Youth Crime
Indictable Crime
Get in touch with the top criminal lawyers Melbourne wide
The key to receiving quality legal assistance is engaging the best criminal lawyers in Melbourne. Don’t delay the preparation of your defence.
Reach us over the phone or by filling out an online contact form. A member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
