Rated 4.6 Excellent on Google Reviews
Criminal Lawyers Melbourne
Calm, Clear Legal Defence When You Need It Most
Since 1966
our criminal lawyers have stood beside clients in Police interviews, Magistrates’ Court hearings, County Court appeals and more. Whether you’re facing a fine, a disqualification, or the possibility of imprisonment, we guide you with strength, strategy and support.
Criminal Law Services
Can involve Police interviews, bail applications, hearings, trials or guilty pleas.
Is the area of law dealing with offences against the law, including charges laid by Victoria Police or regulatory bodies.
Requires prompt legal advice to avoid self-incrimination or worsening outcomes.
Covers traffic, drug, theft, assault, domestic violence, and white-collar offences.
Outcomes range from diversion and fines to suspended sentences or prison terms.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defence Lawyers
We provide:
- Early advice before or after charges are laid
- Cost estimates and updates at every stage
- Strong negotiation for charge reduction or diversion
- SStrategic defence planning to minimise conviction or penalty
- Support with bail, sentencing, and appeals
We serve clients from East Brighton, Brighton, Cheltenham, Hampton, Oakleigh, Chadstone, Clayton, Carnegie, Bentleigh and beyond — with multilingual support in Greek, Croatian, Bosnian and Serbian.
Signs You Need a Criminal Lawyer
1. You’ve Been Contacted by Police
2. You’ve Been Charged or Summoned
3. You’re Due in the Magistrates’ or County Court
• Plea hearings
• Contested hearings
• Bail applications
• Intervention order matters
• Appeals
4. You Need to Minimise Penalties or Avoid Conviction
• Diversion programs (no conviction)
• Adjourned undertakings
• Good behaviour bonds
• Fines without conviction
• Section 10A dismissals
We focus on reducing charges, protecting your record, and minimising court outcomes.
5. You Want a Clean Record for Travel, Work or Immigration
• Job applications
• Visa approvals
• Working with children checks
• Rental and housing access
We work hard to avoid convictions and minimise the long-term consequences for your future.
Our Criminal Defence Process
Case Review
We review your charges, the evidence, and any prior history. We explain the penalties you face and outline your legal options.
Defence Planning
We build your defence strategy — whether to contest, negotiate or plead. We gather evidence, seek expert reports or character references, and prepare submissions.
Court Representation
We appear on your behalf in all hearings. You’re never alone in court. We explain what’s happening, speak for you, and advocate strongly.
Outcome Support
Why Kelly & Chapman for Dispute Resolution
With over 50 years’ experience, we’re known for:
Calm, clear-headed legal advice during a crisis
Prompt responses, no waiting, no judgment
Strong representation from first appearance to final outcome
Office in Bentleigh with free parking and local support
Culturally aware service in multiple languages
Criminal Law Services We Provide
- Police interview advice and attendance
- Bail applications
- Driving offences (drink driving, suspended licence, unlicensed)
- Theft, burglary and robbery
- Assault (including domestic violence charges)
- Drug possession and trafficking
- Fraud, deception and white-collar crime
- Intervention orders (IVO, FVIO, PSIO)
- Public order offences
- Firearms and weapon charges
- Sentencing submissions and mitigation
- Diversion applications
- Criminal appeals (Magistrates’ to County)
- Criminal record and disclosure advice
What Our Clients Say
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I feel so lucky to have found Susan! Her dedication and support throughout the process were unmatched, and she went above and beyond to ensure everything went smoothly. I couldn't have asked for better guidance.
Sai
September 17, 2024 -
Great notary service and friendly staff.
Daniel Pajic
April 27, 2026 -
After my grandmother passed away last year I needed a lawyer to help me with applying for probate and settling the small estate with family. I am currently living overseas so after googling and coming across Kelly and Chapman Lawyers, I spoke with Vicki. She is extremely knowledgeable, professional and really personable. I knew straight away she was who I wanted to work with. Vicki and her team were extremely helpful and answered every question I had. They were very accommodating regarding the distance. She was extremely patient and handled alot of the drama that popped up very professionally and tactfully. It took some time but we were finally able to get an amazing outcome. I was so happy to have Vicki on my team. I would highly recommend her to anyone. Thank you Vicki.
Isabella Sclippa
July 30, 2024 -
Outstanding experience dealing with professionals such as Misko and Susan. As a local real estate agent I am careful who I recommend to my clients but each time the team at Kelly & Chapman deliver excellent service. Keep up the great work!
Anthony Fordham
June 7, 2024 -
I would like to thank Misko Vujnovic for his assistance. I would definitely recommend him to anyone I know. Kind regards Catriona
Catriona Gray Bannerman
September 2, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges
What should I say to the police?
Can I avoid a conviction?
What’s the worst that could happen?
Will this affect my job or visa?
How much will it cost?
Ready to Talk?
It starts with a conversation. No pressure. Just a chance to meet, listen and plan the next step together.