Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

Rowan Skinner & Associates are expert criminal lawyers in Melbourne CBD and Clifton Hill with a focus on Criminal Law and Litigation.

Trusted Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne

If you have been charged with a criminal offence in Melbourne, it is important to seek legal advice and representation from experienced Melbourne criminal lawyers who understand the Victorian criminal justice system. At Rowan Skinner and Associates Lawyers, we are a specialist criminal law firm that represents clients in a range of criminal matters, from drug offences and intervention orders to criminal cases in the Supreme Court.

Rowan Skinner is an experienced criminal defence lawyer with over 30 years’ experience across various legal roles and jurisdictions. Rowan has practised as a criminal law solicitor, who has lengthy experience as a Melbourne criminal barrister and as such provides expert legal advice and legal representation in the Victorian courts.

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Criminal Defence Lawyers

 

If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to seek the services of experienced Melbourne criminal defence lawyers who can represent you in court. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers have a proven track record of success in representing clients in criminal law cases.

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Expert Legal Representation

 

We are a specialist criminal law firm that has extensive experience in defending clients against criminal charges. We are committed to providing the best possible legal defence and expert legal assistance to help you understand your legal rights and options.

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Specialist Criminal Law Firm

 

As a specialist criminal law firm in Melbourne, we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of legal representation to our clients. We are one of the biggest criminal law firms in Victoria and have a team of expert criminal defence lawyers who are committed to defending your legal rights.

Give Rowan Skinner & Associates Lawyers a call to see how we can help you

Our Criminal Law Services

Indecent assault

Historical sexual offences

Rape charges

Possession

Cultivation

Trafficking

We regularly act on behalf of clients involved in intervention order proceedings.

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Bail Applications

Bail is an incredibly complicated area of law. Expert legal advice is essential.

Speeding

Culpable Driving

Drink or Drug Driving

Driving whilst suspended or disqualified

Breach of an intervention order

Breach of bail conditions or a bail undertaking

Commission of indictable offence while on bail

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Offences Against the Person

Assault

Causing Injury

False Imprisonment

Threats to kill

Manslaughter

Homicide

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Property Orders

Aggravated Burglary

Burglary

Home Invasion

Firearm Offences

Theft

Robbery

Attaining property by deception

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Commonwealth Criminal Offences

ASIC investigations

Commonwealth fraud

Drug Importations

Terrorism

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We Are Experienced and Trusted Criminal Lawyers

At Rowan Skinner and Associates Lawyers Melbourne, we understand that when a criminal offence is alleged against you, it can have serious consequences on your life, your family and friends, your reputation, and your employment. Our practise rigorously adheres to the principle of the presumption of innocence, we always have your best interests in mind and follow an approach of providing you the personalised attention and focus you need to get you the best outcome.

  1. Our criminal lawyers understanding the intricacies of the criminal law system and will conduct a thorough case evaluation by investigating and reviewing all the evidence, and seeking advice from expert professionals.
  2. We believe in clear and responsive communication is the best approach. We will keep you updated at each stage of your case and clearly and calmly answer any questions you may have, explain the legal process and guide you as to your potential outcomes.
  3. Rowan is a skilled criminal lawyer with decades worth of experience in the court room as a barrister at the Victorian Bar. Our courtroom advocacy is second-to-none; we will present a strong and robust defence that challenges the prosecution’s case.
  4. If relevant, we will advise you on entering a plea that gets you the best outcome. At times this involves strategic negotiations to achieve favourable plea agreements.

Give Rowan Skinner & Associates Lawyers a call to see how we can help you

Why Choose Rowan & Associates?

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Expert Guidance

Rowan is an LIV-accredited specialist that has 35-years’ experience as a barrister and solicitor in criminal law. Having handled countless cases over many years, we provide second-to-none legal counsel.

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Experienced In-Court and Out-Of-Court Representation

Rowan’s background in and out of court means he will fight hard for you in court and give you the best legal advice out of court.

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Client-focused

We prioritise your needs and always strive to get the best outcome that you deserve. Our approach is tailored to your individual circumstances by providing you the support you need every step of the way.

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Professionalism and Integrity

Our clients appreciate our responsiveness to their queries and questions. As expert lawyers, we remove the emotion from the situation and provide you honest and clear advice to give you a realistic outlook of your situation and the likely outcomes.

TESTIMONIALS

What Clients Say About Us

I regularly refer my clients to Rowan Skinner and Asc when they need representation. My clients have consistently had excellent advice and successful outcomes through Rowan’s representation at Court and when negotiating settlements. These proven results in combination with Rowan’s personal ability to engage with a diverse range of people, ensures that I will continue to refer my clients who need a family lawyer in Melbourne.

Lucy

Rowan represented me in the Magistrates Court and the County Court in relation to very serious charges. Rowan was thorough, professional and diligent in his preparation and responded appropriately to my needs. I was acquitted of all charges.

Jo

I run a commercial law practice and frequently refer clients to Rowan for assistance and advice with family law. Rowan is a family law specialist: this means he is independently verified as having required skills and clients can have confidence in his ability and ethical standards.

John Whelan

I have a Mortgage Broking business with a large number of clients who having varying needs. I have referred many clients who want an excellent Family Law Specialist to look after them during what are difficult times. I have even referred family members to Rowan as I know he will look after them compassionately and professionally. I have no hesitation in recommending him and his services.

Andrew Kostanksi

I am happy to recommend Rowan and his team to anyone needing help with property settlement after divorce. I was worried about the costs that would be involved but everything worked out as quoted. I am happy with the outcome of settlement and grateful for the professional and kind service I received during a stressful time.

Leela Peart

Rowan Skinner was extremely helpful in my hour of need, he provided honest, clear cut advice and direction in a very difficult situation. He works hard for his client . I thoroughly appreciate his help and would strongly recommend him to others who are in need of a good lawyer.

Duncan Syme

I highly recommend Rowan and his team if you are dealing with a high-conflict ex-partner. I worked with Rowan pre-separation because I knew that I was in for an ugly and combative response by my ex-partner. Things unfolded as expected and he applied to the Federal Circuit Court within 3 weeks post-separation.

Rowan saw through the games and motivations of this high-conflict individual from the get-go and guided me every step of the way to a quick settlement of the case. Settlements are always compromises but mine is workable thanks to Rowan’s expert and pragmatic advice. I always felt he had my back and my best interests at heart. Rowan also has a wry sense of humor which often saved the day during the worst of this process.

Rowan was recommended to me by a friend and I have no hesitations to recommend him to you.

Nadine Zacharias

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Contact Us Now – Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

If you have been accused of a criminal offence, our team of Melbourne criminal defence lawyers can provide the expert legal advice and representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

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FAQ

Criminal Law FAQS

What should I do if I’ve been charged with a criminal offence in Victoria?
If you’ve been charged, it’s important to seek legal advice immediately. A criminal defence lawyer can review the evidence, explain your options, and represent you in court to achieve the best possible outcome.
Do I have to go to court for a criminal charge?
Usually you will have to go to Court if you are on bail. Most criminal charges require at least one court appearance. However, your lawyer can sometimes appear on your behalf, depending on the nature of the offence and whether it’s heard in the Magistrates’, County, or Supreme Court. This is something that needs to be discussed with your lawyer on a case by case basis.
What are my rights when dealing with police?
You have the right to remain silent, the right to communicate with a lawyer, and the right to know what you’re being charged with. You generally don’t need to answer police questions (except for name and address), but it’s crucial to get legal advice before doing so.
What is the difference between a summary and indictable offence?
Summary offences are less serious and usually heard in the Magistrates’ Court (e.g. traffic offences, minor assaults). Indictable offences are more serious (e.g. armed robbery, drug trafficking) and usually will be heard in higher courts, depending on the level of seriousness.
Can I get a criminal record removed in Victoria?
Some offences may become “spent” after a certain period, meaning they won’t appear on a police check. This depends on the type of offence and your criminal history. A lawyer can advise if this applies to your case.
Will a criminal conviction affect my job or travel plans?
Yes, a criminal record can impact employment, overseas travel, and visa applications. Your lawyer can work to have charges downgraded, dismissed, or result in a non-conviction outcome where appropriate.
Can I avoid a criminal conviction if I plead guilty?
In some cases, you may receive a non-conviction sentencing outcome, such as an adjourned undertaking(good behaviour bond) or admission to the diversion program. This depends on the nature of the offence, your criminal history, and other factors.
What is a Diversion Program in Victoria?
A Diversion Program allows eligible first-time offenders to avoid a criminal record. It involves accepting responsibility and completing conditions like counselling or community service. A lawyer can help determine if you’re eligible.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Melbourne?
Costs vary depending on the seriousness of the charges, court appearances required, and the complexity of your matter. We offer fixed-fee quotes for many cases and always discuss fees upfront.
Why choose a criminal defence lawyer near me?
A local criminal lawyer understands the procedures of nearby courts and may have working relationships with local prosecutors and magistrates, which can be advantageous in your case.