When the stakes are high and your freedom is on the line, trust Andrew Byrnes Law Group to be your steadfast legal ally. We're committed to your rights and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.



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Charged with a criminal or traffic offence? Need legal advice on a protection order?
Have you been charged with a criminal offence, traffic offence (such as drink driving, drug driving, or licence-related offences), or need legal representation in a Family Violence Order (FVO), Personal Protection Order (PPO), or Domestic Violence Order (DVO) matter?
At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we offer a free initial face-to-face consultation with one of our experienced criminal defence lawyers.
During this session, we’ll guide you on your legal rights, what steps to take next, and the best legal strategy for your case. Whether you’re facing charges or dealing with a court matter, we are here to help you understand your options and protect your future.
Our firm is known for providing exceptionally high-quality, personalised legal advice. Many of our clients return to us—and refer others—because they trust us to handle their legal issues with care, skill, and professionalism.
The best part? Your initial consultation won’t cost you a cent.
Please note: Your meeting is not confirmed until you receive an official confirmation from our team.
Ready to get started?
Don’t delay - book your free consultation today.


Office

Address
Level 3, 1 Farrell Place,
Canberra City,
ACT 2601
Business Hours
Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM - 5 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Experienced professionals
Our team comprises seasoned solicitors & lawyers with extensive legal expertise and knowledge.
Client focused
We prioritize our clients' needs, providing personalized and effective legal solutions.
Proven success
Our firm has a track record of achieving favorable outcomes in diverse legal cases.
Comprehensive services
We offer a wide range of legal services to meet all your legal requirements.
Questions
What should I look for when hiring a criminal lawyer for my case?
When hiring a criminal lawyer, one of the most important things to consider is experience. Look for a criminal lawyer with extensive knowledge of criminal defence and who is familiar with the court system in your area. These types of criminal lawyers are more likely to be able to help you achieve a favourable outcome, especially in complex criminal cases where the evidence against you is substantial.
You should also look for a criminal lawyer who has a proven track record of success and can provide references from previous clients.
Finally, make sure to seek a criminal lawyer who you trust and feel comfortable with, as they will be representing your interests in a highly personal and potentially life-changing matter.
If you are facing serious charges, you need quality legal services from the best criminal lawyers Canberra.
How long do criminal convictions stay on my record?
In Australia, the duration for which criminal convictions stay on your record varies based on the severity of the offence and the jurisdiction in which you were convicted. Generally, criminal convictions remain on your record indefinitely unless they become spent under the Spent Conviction Scheme.
What factors can influence the severity of sentencing for a criminal charge?
Several factors can influence the severity of sentencing, including the nature and gravity of the offence, the offender's criminal history, the harm caused to the victim, and the offender's remorse or lack thereof.
How can I avoid receiving a criminal record for minor offences?
It may be possible to avoid a criminal record for minor criminal offences through diversion programs or by receiving a non-conviction order. Legal representation can greatly enhance your chances of achieving such outcomes, so reach out to the best criminal lawyers in Canberra right away.
What is the difference between a summary offence and an indictable offence?
The key distinction between these two criminal offences lies in the seriousness and complexity of the offence. A summary offence is a less severe offence and is typically heard and decided by a magistrate in a local court without a jury. On the other hand, an indictable offence is more serious and complex, necessitating a trial in a higher court with a judge and potentially a jury, allowing for a more detailed legal process. Indictable offences carry potentially heavier penalties and generally require legal representation.
Why would someone hire a criminal lawyer?
Someone might hire a criminal lawyer to defend against criminal charges, no matter how severe.
Criminal law is a very complex area of practice, and only criminal law specialists like Andrew Byrnes Law Group have the expertise and experience to deliver results that can mean the difference between jail time or walking free.
Our criminal lawyers can provide critical legal advice, construct a strong defence strategy, and represent clients in court to help them secure the best possible outcome.
Without expert representation, individuals risk facing harsher penalties and potentially long-term consequences.
Can I appeal a criminal conviction?
Yes, you can appeal a criminal conviction. The process generally involves filing a notice of appeal, after which a higher court will review the case. The grounds for appeal can include errors of law, fact, or both.
What are my rights when interacting with law enforcement?
In any encounter with law enforcement, you have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to refuse a search unless the police have a warrant, as well as the right to legal representation. If arrested, you are entitled to know the charges against you and have access to a solicitor. Get in touch with the best criminal lawyers in Canberra if you ever find yourself in this situation.
What are the consequences of a criminal record?
Having a criminal record in Australia can have significant detrimental effects on an individual's life. It signifies a past conviction for wrongdoing, whether minor or major, with some convictions becoming spent after a certain period of time, except for serious offences like murder.
A criminal record tarnishes credibility, consequently limiting your future opportunities. Here are a few examples:
- Employers routinely do background checks, and a criminal record often leads to job denials.
- Landlords may reject rental applications based on criminal records.
- Travelling can also be complicated, impacting visa applications and passport acquisition, especially for international trips.
Seeking legal representation from the best Canberra criminal lawyers is a must if your goal is to mitigate the potential long-term consequences of a criminal record, whether through conviction avoidance or sentence reduction.
What should I do if I’m charged with a criminal offence?
When the police charge you with a criminal offence – contact the best criminal lawyers Canberra as soon as possible.
The job of the police and prosecutors is to try to prove the case against you. It’s not your job to prove your innocence. At our criminal law firm, our focus is on making the police and prosecutors’ job as difficult as possible and fighting fearlessly so that you get the best possible result in your case.
We will help you understand what your options are and what legal strategy or defence to adopt so that you can secure the best possible outcome. Defence of criminal law matters is an art – don’t hire a lawyer who will just turn up on the day. Hire a criminal lawyer who truly has your best interests at heart.
Consistent with our mission statement and our deliberate difference from the rest, when we take on a case, we assess what needs to be done at the outset and offer fair fees for your case.
How can a criminal lawyer assist in my defence?
A criminal defence lawyer can provide invaluable assistance by analysing your case, identifying potential defences, and advocating for your rights throughout the legal process. The criminal lawyers Canberra at Andrew Byrnes Law Group are well-versed in the complexities of criminal law and possess the necessary skills and experience to challenge the prosecution's evidence, negotiate plea deals, and present your case effectively in criminal courts.
What are the available defences for common criminal charges?
The defences available depend on the specific charges against you. Some common defences include lack of intent, alibi, insanity, self-defence, and duress. It's essential to consult with an experienced criminal defence lawyer who can analyse the specifics of your case and advise on the most appropriate defence strategy.