Our services

Dispute resolution through the courts can be necessary when negotiation fails or when legal rights must be formally protected. At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, our focus is on litigation - resolving disputes through the court system with professional, experienced legal advocacy.

We assist clients with all stages of litigation, including:

• Legal strategy and case preparation
• Filing claims or defending proceedings
• Representing you in court hearings and trials
• Negotiating settlements during proceedings
• Enforcing court judgments

Our firm does not offer alternative dispute resolution services such as mediation or arbitration. Instead, we are committed to delivering strong courtroom representation to help our clients achieve fair and enforceable outcomes.

Contract breaches can arise from a range of scenarios, including:

• A supplier failing to deliver goods on time or in full
• A debtor not repaying a loan
• A contractor using poor-quality materials or doing substandard work
• A buyer refusing to pay after receiving goods or services
• A tenant failing to pay rent or meet lease terms

You may also find yourself accused of breaching a contract - perhaps due to circumstances beyond your control. In such cases, we’ll work with you to assess your exposure, mitigate risk, and explore the best legal strategy moving forward.

Our breach of contract lawyers can assist with:

• Legal advice on your rights and obligations
• Drafting and sending demand letters
• Engaging in strategic negotiation
• Filing and defending court proceedings
• Enforcing or defending judgment orders

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Family Violence Orders are protective court orders specifically designed to address violence, threats, or intimidating behaviour within family and domestic relationships. These orders play a crucial role in safeguarding family members from harm while establishing clear legal boundaries and expectations for behaviour.

FVO proceedings often involve sensitive family matters, including relationships between spouses, former partners, parents and children, and extended family members. The implications of these orders extend beyond immediate safety concerns, potentially affecting child custody arrangements, property settlements, living arrangements, and ongoing family relationships.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we approach FVO matters with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism, understanding that family violence situations require both legal expertise and emotional intelligence. Our team is committed to protecting the safety and rights of all parties while working toward outcomes that promote healing and stability for families wherever possible.

We provide comprehensive support throughout the FVO process, ensuring that complex family dynamics are properly understood and addressed, and that court proceedings are handled with appropriate discretion and care for all family members involved.

Workers, regardless of their position and nature of employment, are significant driving forces in a company. They are one of the greatest natural resources that a company has. As such, their preservation by maintaining a fair and harmonious workplace is crucial not only to boost productivity but also to contribute to the success of a business organisation. Australian employment laws are therefore crafted and implemented in order to balance the interests and protect the rights of both employers and workers. An in-depth understanding of these employment laws is a key tool in preventing workforce disputes, which an employment lawyer may be able to provide effectively.

Employment matters involve the rights of workers from hiring to firing (dismissal). Compliance of employers with industrial standards includes working conditions, working hours, wages, leave, occupational health and safety and other matters concerning workers’ rights such as discrimination, sexual harassment, workplace accidents, and superannuation.

We at Andrew Byrnes Law Group are lawyers for workplace fairness and we will see to it that your employment concerns are carefully handled at all times, whether you are an aggrieved worker or a distressed employer.

As an employee, independent contractor, or casual worker, we can help educate you with your rights under Australian employment law.

If you encounter issues such as under- or non-payment of wages, unfair dismissal, discrimination, sexual harassment, or you are exposed to an unsafe and unhealthy working environment, the skilled employment lawyers of Andrew Byrnes Law Group are here to provide you with relevant legal advice regarding your rights, and if needed, file your claims and represent you in your legal action.

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Being chased or chasing debts can be time-consuming and frustrating, but our expert debt recovery solicitors at Andrew Byrnes Law Group can take this burden off your hands, quickly and cost-effectively.

Disputing a Debt.

If you owe someone money and you don’t pay, you will likely be given a bad credit history, your property may be seized and you could be taken to court. If you believe that you have a reason why you should not have to pay a debt, you should seek legal advice immediately.

Andrew Byrnes Law Group’s service includes replying to all the correspondence you receive and representing you in court.

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Facing a drug charge can be overwhelming and the legal landscape surrounding it is often difficult to navigate without proper guidance. Australian drug laws vary between jurisdictions and can include both state-based and federal charges, depending on the substance and circumstances. The stakes are high, with even minor offences potentially impacting employment, travel, and your future.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we understand what’s at risk. We offer clear and practical legal advice for individuals charged with offences related to the possession, use, cultivation, manufacture, or trafficking of illicit substances. We also assist clients in matters involving prescription drugs, party drugs, and controlled substances.

If you’ve been charged or are under investigation, it’s vital to seek legal assistance immediately. We will evaluate the details of your case, explore all possible defences, and advocate fiercely on your behalf. Our goal is to protect your rights while minimising legal repercussions wherever possible.

Murder and manslaughter charges are among the most serious offences under Australian law. The distinction between the two often hinges on the intent behind the act.

• Murder: Involves the intentional or reckless killing of another person. It carries severe penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment.
• Manslaughter: Refers to the unintentional killing of another person, often resulting from negligence or lack of intent. While still serious, it generally carries lesser penalties than murder.
  

Our legal team at Andrew Byrnes Law Group is adept at navigating the intricacies of these charges. We provide strategic defence tailored to the specifics of your case, ensuring that your side of the story is heard and considered.

Fraud charges can stem from many scenarios: false accounting, falsified documents, benefit fraud, or financial deception. These cases require a detailed understanding of financial and legal systems, as well as the ability to build a strong, evidence-based defence.

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At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we provide full legal support - from initial advice to representation in court. We ensure your rights are protected at every stage and your side of the story is heard. We proudly serve clients in Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Wollongong, Yass, Cooma, Wagga Wagga, and surrounding areas.

Assault-related offences in Australia fall under several categories and can involve physical force, verbal threats, or even actions that cause a person to reasonably fear for their safety. These charges may be laid under state or territory laws depending on where the incident occurred, and the penalties vary widely based on circumstances.

Common types of assault we handle include:

• Common assault (including verbal threats or physical gestures)
• Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
• Grievous bodily harm or wounding
• Serious or aggravated assault
• Sexual assault (including indecent assault)
• Assault against police or public officers

Each case is unique, and at Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we tailor our approach to suit the facts and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to contest the charge, negotiate a lesser penalty, or mitigate sentencing outcomes, our team is ready to step in and assist — professionally and without judgment.

Being accused of a property offence can feel overwhelming, especially when police are involved early or charges come unexpectedly. If you’ve been charged with stealing, burglary, or damaging property, don’t wait to get legal advice - even informal police interviews can impact your case.

Our services cover a range of property-related criminal matters, including:

• Theft or larceny (including employee theft or shoplifting)
• Burglary or unlawful entry
• Property damage or vandalism
• Receiving stolen goods
• Possession of stolen property
• Dishonest conduct or handling of funds

Each case requires a careful examination of evidence, intent, and potential defences. Our lawyers work with you to determine whether to challenge the allegations, negotiate reduced penalties, or pursue diversionary options (like good behaviour bonds or community service) if appropriate.

We serve clients across Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Cooma, Wagga Wagga, and nearby regions.

Domestic violence encompasses a wide range of behaviours - physical abuse, emotional manipulation, financial control, threats, and coercion. Charges can stem from family disputes, relationship breakdowns, or misunderstandings, but the legal consequences can be life-altering.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we provide complete legal support tailored to your needs:

• Defence against domestic violence allegations
• Assistance with Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) and Family Violence Orders (FVOs)
• Advice on related family law matters, including parenting and custody
• Support in understanding how charges may impact employment, visas, and travel

We serve clients across Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Wollongong, Yass, Cooma, Wagga Wagga, and surrounding areas.

Personal Protection Orders are court-issued protective measures specifically designed to prevent harassment, intimidation, property damage, or stalking behaviour in the Australian Capital Territory. These orders carry serious legal weight and can significantly impact both the protected person's safety and the respondent's daily activities, employment, and personal relationships.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we recognise that PPO situations often involve complex personal dynamics and emotional stress. Our legal team provides clear, practical advice while maintaining the highest standards of professional discretion and respect. We work diligently to understand the full context of your situation and develop legal strategies that address your specific needs and concerns.

Whether you're an applicant requiring urgent protection or a respondent seeking to defend your reputation and rights, we provide expert legal representation that ensures fair treatment under the law. Our goal is to achieve resolutions that prioritise safety while minimising unnecessary disruption to all parties involved.

Apprehended Violence Orders are serious legal instruments designed to protect individuals from harassment, intimidation, stalking, or threats of violence. Whether you're seeking protection or responding to an AVO application, these orders can have significant implications for your personal freedom, family relationships, employment prospects, and reputation.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we understand that AVO matters often arise during highly stressful and emotional circumstances. Our approach combines strategic legal expertise with compassionate support, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the entire process. We represent both applicants seeking protection and respondents defending against allegations, providing tailored legal strategies for each unique situation.

Our experienced team will help you understand the specific requirements and implications of AVOs, guide you through the application or response process, and provide strong advocacy in court proceedings to achieve the best possible outcome for your circumstances.

Drink driving offences in the ACT are treated seriously by the courts and can result in heavy fines, licence disqualification, and even imprisonment. Whether you're facing your first DUI offence or are dealing with a repeat PCA charge, strong legal representation is essential.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we provide personalised defence strategies based on the specific circumstances of your case. We represent clients in relation to:

• Low, mid, and high-range PCA offences
• DUI involving alcohol or drugs
• Refusal to provide breath or blood samples
• Novice and learner driver alcohol offences
• Immediate licence suspensions and appeals

We understand the personal and professional impact that a drink driving charge can have. That’s why our Canberra-based legal team works closely with you to challenge police procedures, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for the best possible result in court.

Our goal is to help you protect your record, retain your licence where possible, and move forward with confidence. Whether it's seeking a reduced penalty, a non-conviction order, or appealing a suspension, we’re committed to strong legal advocacy backed by years of experience.

Drug driving laws in the ACT apply to both illicit substances and certain prescription medications that can impair a person’s ability to drive safely. Police routinely conduct roadside saliva testing for common illicit drugs including cannabis, methamphetamines, and MDMA.

A positive drug test regardless of whether impairment is observed can lead to immediate licence suspension and court proceedings.

We assist clients with charges such as:

• Driving with a prescribed drug present in oral fluid, blood, or urine
• Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs
• Combined drug and alcohol offences
• Refusing to provide a sample for drug testing
• Driving while impaired by prescription medication

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we take the time to understand your unique situation, including medical or personal factors that may have influenced the charge. Our focus is on presenting your case clearly and persuasively in court to seek the most favourable outcome—whether that’s a reduced penalty, avoiding a conviction, or minimising licence suspension.

Driving while suspended or disqualified is a serious offence under ACT law. Penalties can escalate quickly - especially for repeat offences and may affect your job, personal life, and ability to drive legally in the future.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we provide strong and considered legal representation to help you deal with these charges effectively. Our team carefully assesses your case, identifies procedural errors or grounds for defence, and provides expert advocacy in court.

We represent clients in situations involving:

• Licence suspensions due to unpaid fines
• Demerit point suspensions
• Court-imposed disqualifications
• Driving while awaiting licence reinstatement
• Repeat driving offence charges

We understand that sometimes people drive out of necessity, such as for work, family, or medical emergencies. We present your circumstances to the court in the most effective light, aiming to reduce penalties or help you avoid a conviction when possible.

In the ACT, offences such as excessive speeding, running a red light, or using a mobile phone while driving can be considered dangerous or reckless depending on the circumstances. These offences carry heavy penalties, especially where the safety of others is deemed to be at risk.

At Andrew Byrnes Law Group, we represent clients charged with:

• Dangerous driving (e.g. high-speed offences, aggressive or erratic driving)
• Reckless driving likely to endanger others
• Speeding above prescribed limits, including in school zones or during double demerit periods
• Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs
• Using a mobile phone while driving (texting, calling, or handling the phone while not in a cradle)
• Hoon behaviour or street racing

We understand that some offences occur due to momentary lapses in judgement, and our legal team works to ensure your side of the story is heard. Whether you're a first-time offender or facing a repeat charge, we tailor our legal strategy to reduce the legal, personal, and professional impacts of your case.