Criminal Lawyers NSW - Strong Defence, Proven Results
Being charged with a criminal offence is often overwhelming and life-changing. At Crawford & Duncan Lawyers, we provide clear advice, strong representation, and compassionate support from the very first moment police contact you, whether you are being investigated, interviewed, charged, or preparing for court.
With decades of combined experience in Local, District, and Supreme Courts, our team is led by Les Crawford and Michelle Duncan, giving us a unique advantage when analysing evidence, challenging police procedure, and preparing a strategic defence.
Our priority is simple: protect your record, protect your rights, and secure the best outcome available under NSW law.
Comprehensive Criminal Defence - Start to Finish
We represent clients at every stage of the criminal process:
- Before charges are laid
- Police interviews
- Bail applications & show cause matters
- Plea negotiations
- Sentence hearing
- Appeals in higher courts
Early advice is critical. The sooner we’re involved, the stronger your position becomes.
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Assault & Violence Charges
NSW courts treat assault and violence-related offences with seriousness, often imposing penalties that affect employment, travel, and personal reputation. Our team defends matters including:
- Common assault
- Domestic violence (AVO/ADVO)
- Reckless wounding or grievous bodily harm (GBH)
- Affray and violent disorder
We carefully assess the evidence, including self-defence, provocation, witness reliability, and possible factual disputes. Where appropriate, we negotiate reduced charges or seek non-conviction outcomes.
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Drug Offences - Possession, Supply & Trafficking
Drug offences range from minor possession to complex supply and commercial quantity matters. Penalties vary widely, making expert representation essential. We defend clients facing:
- Possession of prohibited drugs
- Possession of implements
- Supply (including deemed supply)
- Cultivation, manufacture, or importation
We examine legality of searches, police procedure, admissibility of evidence, and opportunities for diversion programs or lesser charges.
Fraud, Theft & Dishonesty Offences
Dishonesty offences can severely impact your career, professional reputation, and future opportunities. We have deep experience defending charges including:
- Centrelink/social security fraud
- Credit card fraud & identity offences
- Larceny and shoplifting
- Break & enter
- Forgery and use of false documents
Our lawyers analyse financial evidence, digital material, and witness statements to construct a strong, targeted defence strategy.
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Sexual Offence Allegations
Accusations of sexual offences can have devastating personal and professional consequences. We provide confidential, respectful representation in matters such as:
- Sexual assault and indecent assault
- Child exploitation material offences
- Grooming and related allegations
We ensure your rights are protected, challenge unreliable or prejudicial evidence, and engage necessary experts where required.
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Youth & Juvenile Crime
The Children’s Court focuses on rehabilitation and future protection. We support families through matters involving:
- Police cautions
- Diversion programs
- Youth charges for assault, theft, drugs, or serious offences
Our approach prioritises the young person’s long-term wellbeing and legal protection.
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Serious & Indictable Offences
For the most serious matters, you need an experienced team capable of managing complex evidence and multi-day hearings. We represent clients charged with:
- Murder or manslaughter
- Serious drug
- supply/trafficking
- Armed robbery
- Major fraud
- Conspiracy and organised crime
We work with expert witnesses, forensic specialists, and investigators when required to build a comprehensive defence.
Bail Applications & Show Cause Hearings
Following an arrest, police make a determination in respect to your bail. It is crucial that contact is made with a solicitor who understands who to contact at the police station and what to do. Police will make a determination after charging regarding the issue of bail. It can range between being released without any conditions, to being released with conditions - to being refused bail. An understanding of your rights and the bail laws is essential. Crawford & Duncan Lawyers know your rights and how to ensure they are protected.
Being refused bail means that you are not free to leave custody. It also means that you will be taken before a Magistrate either on the same day or the following day for a bail hearing. At this point in time you will need to get advice from a lawyer who understands the current bail laws. Who can give advice on what application to make and how to prepare the application.
A lack of knowledge can result in you not only being bail refused but can also result in an inability to make a further bail application in the local court, unless certain circumstances exist. This can result in you being kept in custody and held in goal for prolonged periods of time. Crawford & Duncan Lawyers will give you the advice needed, speak to police on your behalf and if bail refused prepare bail applications and appear in court on your behalf.
Why Choose Crawford & Duncan Lawyers?
Why Choose Crawford & Duncan Lawyers?
We are dedicated to protecting your rights, and ensuring you have the best defence. Get the best possible outcome with our lawyers. Read more about our lawyers here. How do we achieve this for our clients? See below:
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Decades of experience in NSW Criminal Law -
Appearing daily in Local, District & Supreme Courts
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Compassionate support during the most difficult time of your life
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A trusted reputation built on results
Request a Confidential Consultation
If you’ve been contacted by police, charged with an offence, or believe you may be under investigation, don’t delay. Early legal advice significantly improves your chances of a favourable outcome.
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