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Why Choose Emma Turnbull Lawyers?

When everything is on the line, choose the firm that knows how to fight and how to win.

At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, we don’t do a little bit of everything. We do one thing and we do it exceptionally well. We are Melbourne’s specialist criminal defence law firm, with a fierce reputation for results, discretion, and compassionate advocacy.

Whether you’re facing police charges, a court date, or an intervention order, you deserve a lawyer who understands how high the stakes are and who will do everything to protect your future.

We appear daily in courts across Victoria, defending individuals and companies against criminal charges of all types, from serious indictable offences to complex intervention order proceedings. No matter how complex the case, we bring the skill, urgency, and strategic thinking that high-stakes matters demand.

We Are Experts in Intervention Orders (IVOs)

Intervention Orders, whether Family Violence IVOs or Personal Safety IVOs, carry serious consequences. They can impact your job, your family, and even your freedom.

At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, we are specialists in defending and contesting IVOs.

Whether you’re responding to an application or seeking to vary or revoke an existing order, we bring sharp strategy, experience, and empathy to your case.

We act fast in urgent matters, including interim orders.
We represent clients in contested hearings and appeals.
We handle IVOs that overlap with criminal charges, including assault and stalking.

We appear daily in the Magistrates’ Court, where most IVO matters are heard.

With us, you’re not walking in cold — you’re walking in with a team that knows exactly what to do.

What Makes Us Melbourne’s Leading Criminal Lawyers?

100% Criminal Law Specialists

We don’t dabble. Our team of criminal defence lawyers practise exclusively in criminal law and intervention orders, nothing else. That focus gives us unmatched depth of experience, insight, and courtroom agility.

Strategic, Streetwise, and Courtroom-Ready

We appear every day in the Magistrates’, County, and Supreme Courts of Victoria. We know the judges. We know the prosecutors. We know how the system works and how to make it work in your favour.

Your Privacy Comes First

We fight hard, but we fight quietly. We never seek media attention and strongly advise against it. Many of our clients wish to keep their legal matters private, even from family and friends, and we go to great lengths to protect that privacy.

We Are More Than Lawyers

Being charged with an offence can feel overwhelming. We don’t just give legal advice. We offer clarity, support, and strategic guidance and referrals through one of the most stressful experiences of your life.

Results Without the Runaround

At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, you won’t get lost in the shuffle or handed to a junior without experience. We’re structured to give you access to high-level expertise, quick turnaround, and hands-on care, no matter the size of your matter.

Based Where It Counts

Our firm is located in the heart of the Melbourne CBD Court Precinct, giving us immediate access to all major courts and ensuring we’re exactly where you need us, when you need us.

The Results Speak for Themselves

Every year, we represent thousands of clients across Victoria, from individuals facing serious criminal charges to businesses caught in regulatory disputes. Our proven track record, combined with our specialist expertise, is what makes us one of the best criminal law firms in Melbourne.

Accredited Criminal Law Specialists

We don’t just claim to be specialists, we’re formally recognised as such.

Emma Turnbull – Director, Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Adrian Lewin – Director, Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Manny Brennan – Partner, Accredited Criminal Law Specialist

This accreditation by the Law Institute of Victoria confirms our expertise and
leadership in the field.

Recognised for Excellence

Our work has earned us nominations and wins across Australia’s most prestigious legal awards. From criminal advocacy to innovation, mentorship, and lawyer wellbeing, our team is recognised not only for legal skill, but for leadership in the profession.

Need a Criminal Lawyer in Melbourne? Start Here.

Your legal issue isn’t just paperwork, it’s your future. And you need someone in your corner who won’t back down.