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Protect Future: Experienced Criminal Defence Lawyers, Here to Fight for You
Have you been charged with a criminal offence? Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are here to help. We offer comprehensive legal guidance and support to ensure you understand your options and have a strong defence strategy to protect your rights and your future.
- 30 years of experience, you can rely on
- Clear, honest communication
- Clear fixed fees outline provided to you straight away. No surprises.
Accredited Specialist
Criminal Lawyers
of Defending People
Cases Defended
MC
Mel Carr
We had never dealt with Lawyers before, but can we say Josh H was the most incredible communicator and was so honest and thorough in our dealings in every way. He worked extremely hard for us. If we could rate him a million out of 10 we would. He was extremely professional, compassionate and always returned our calls and emails promptly, keeping us in the loop at every stage of our matter. We have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Josh H to anyone that requires a Lawyer, he is hands down the best in the business – he is an absolute credit to Doogue + George for sure. Thank you so much Josh for all you did for us.
VS
Vicki Stephenson
Having had no experience with lawyers in the past I found Maya George to be very approachable empathetic and encouraging. She lead me through the process every step of the way. I felt very comfortable that she was doing everything in her power to make the whole experience much less stressful and was in very capable hands.
JC
James Christopher Donovan
Working with Maya from Doogue + George Defense Lawyers put my mind at ease, being in Queensland and working with her from afar it was essential to find someone with a proven track record -having no contacts in Melbourne itself, and Doogue + George definitely live up to their reputation.
Maya took the time to understand all the finer details of my case, giving sound advice which ultimately lead to the absolute best possible outcome for my situation.
S
Sieni
I’m am writing this survey as an appreciation of Annamiek Van Loon. What can I say except amazing. Annamiek was professional in every sense of the word even down to the outcome of my case. Everything she said she could do, she accomplished. I strongly recommend Annamiek to anyone, as you will get nothing but the best result and an honest down to earth lawyer.
M
Mary
I cannot rate Kate Da Costa highly enough. She helped my elderly Father with a very serious matter, and achieved the best possible outcome for him. Kate is very professional, accomodating, interested, made sure we understood all situations, and led us through all stages while keeping costs down. Like most, we are not familiar with legal processes; we were very fortunate to have found Kate, I can’t imagine a better lawyer. Thank you so very much.
JG
Jarod Guest
I am a returning client of Doogue + George, however this was my first time being represented by Ella Trickey. The outcome Ella secured for me greatly exceeded my expectations to say the least. Ella is professional, patient, understanding and is clearly very passionate about securing the best possible outcome for her clients. I can confidently say without any doubt that I could not have possibly received better representation. I would very highly recommend Ella or anyone at Doogue + George, and should the need ever arise I won’t hesitate to reach out again.
Why Choose Us
Decades of Experience
With over 30 years of expertise in criminal defence, we have the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex cases. You can trust our seasoned team to navigate the legal system effectively on your behalf.
Clear, Transparent Communication
We understand the importance of keeping you informed every step of the way. Our commitment to clear and honest communication ensures that you always know where you stand and what to expect throughout the process.
Fixed Fees or Hourly rate
That’s why we give you a clear fee agreement straight away before you make your decision. No tricks, no hidden fees.
Your future is too important to leave to chance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward defending your rights and protecting your future.
There are
two sides to justice.
We’re on yours.
When your life's on the line,
we’ll come through for you.
When your life's on the line, we’ll come through for you.
Doogue + George criminal lawyers will fight tooth and nail to prevent charges from being filed against you and achieve the best outcome. Below are the criminal cases we specialise in.
Criminal Law
- All criminal matters heard in any Victorian courts.
Traffic Law
- From minor traffic and driving charges to more serious culpable driving charges.
Family Violence
- Get the right advice when applying for or responding to intervention orders or breaching charges.
Sex Offences
- Sex Offences are dealt with seriously by the courts. Get the right advice.
Drink Driving
- Get the best possible result, spend the minimum period of time off the road.
Corporate Crime
- Including ASIC offences, insider trading bribery and corruption charges.
Intervention Orders
- The best legal representation to achieve the best possible outcome for both applicants and respondents.
Jury Trials
- The very best defence in jury trials.
Hear it from our satisfied clients
Mel Carter
We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Doogue + George Defence Lawyers to anyone – Josh H was a dream… incredible..!!! Attention to detail, perfect in every way. We would personally like to thank Josh H for helping our case, he was always one step ahead, and his communication and manner in which he worked was impeccable. A huge credit to the company. We have no hesitation in recommending these amazing lawyers, especially the number 1 Josh H, to anybody – don’t waste your money on other firms – go straight to the best who know everything there is to know. Thank you, just an incredible team, in every way.
Lee Jay Lindsay
Annamiek Van Loon is a superstar! The level of professionalism, communication, and support demonstrated by Annamiek throughout the entire process was truly outstanding. From our initial interaction, I sensed that I was in the hands of someone exceptional. The advice and guidance received proved to be invaluable. I am incredibly grateful and will forever appreciate Annamiek Van Loon for representing me. Many Thanks, Annamiek!
Jatin Manan
My lawyer Ella Trickey’s vast knowledge and experience in her field has got me the result in the case which I have never imagined. All charges were withdrawn and matters finished. Thank you so much Doogue + George Lawyers. Special thanks to you Ella(My lawyer) and Jennifer(legal Assistant). I can’t thank you enough for all your efforts shown in this case. You guys are the best.
Louise Vladimirou
My experience with this firm was fantastic. Annamiek Van Loon was my lawyer, and not only did she achieve the best possible outcome for me, but throughout the experience kept me informed about what was happening with regular updates, I did not have to follow up she was always keeping me up to date, which I greatly appreciated and was one of my concerns when looking for a lawyer. If I ever needed legal representation again in the future I would not hesitate in going back to see Annamiek or this firm for representation.
Andry Refani
I am so grateful for my experience with Doogue + George defence lawyer and My lawyer, Andy Kuoch. This firm gave my case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. They were calming, sincere, and a confident presence during very difficult court proceedings. I never once was treated as anything other than a valuable client by Mr.Kuoch. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received. These people know their craft and walk the extra mile for you. I was handled with utmost care and professionalism. I also appreciated working with people that care for you on a personal level instead of just handling you as a “case”. I Highly recommend them
Ayhan Uguz
Thanks for looking out for me when I was processing a lot of mixed feelings. Best choice I made was electing this company to represent me. Best outcome possible was achieved, thank you for looking after me during this full of unthought of legal surprises. Professional and compassionate company, highly recommended, thanks Nikita.
Case Studies
How we prevented our client from going to prison after committing alcohol-fueled violence
The Charge
Our client was charged with Affray, Injury charges, Unlawful Assault, and Assault With a Weapon after drinking one night with his friends in the city and getting involved in a street fight with another group of young men.
Our client didn’t remember his role in the fight but CCTV footage captured it – he was throwing punches, kicking people on the ground, and even throwing a glass bottle. The client had never been in trouble with the police before and was worried about going to jail. Jail was a real possibility given the public’s views of alcohol-fueled violence.
The Strategy
Here’s what we did:
- We watched the footage with the client and explained the seriousness of the assault charges arising from alcohol-fueled violence.
- We explained how important it was to prepare properly for a plea.
- We organised for our client to do an anger management course and an alcohol and drug course to help him understand what led to the offending and gave him tools for handling conflict in a better way next time.
- Character references were also gathered for the client. We made sure that these people came to court on the day.
- We disagreed with the prosecution about which charges should proceed and so we adjourned the matter to a contest mention.
The Result
The magistrate was impressed at the steps our client had taken towards his rehabilitation. The client was offered an adjourned undertaking with a condition that he be of good behaviour for 4 months and that he donate to the court fund.
This was an incredible result for a case of assault charges arising from alcohol-fueled violence.
It is sometimes important not to plead guilty straight away. A good lawyer will know which charges you should plead guilty to and which ones you should fight and will give you sound advice about the best way forward.
Case Studies
How our client received just a Good Behaviour Bond even after being charged with Drug Driving
The Charge
Our client was a truck driver who had failed to properly complete his log book when he was pulled over by the highway patrol. The truck was searched and amphetamines were discovered in a false-bottomed bottle inside his fridge. He was subjected to a drug test and tested positive for amphetamine.
He was charged with:
- Drive While Impaired By Drugs
- Exceed PC Drugs – 49(1)(h)
- Fail to Record Time and Place of Rest/Rest Change
- Possess Drug of Dependence
The Strategy
We made submissions to the court detailing how our client had previously suffered an illness for a period of 6 months. The magistrate acknowledged that the use of drugs was for overcoming fatigue related to the illness, and not a sign of a persistent drug problem.
We also pointed out how a loss of licence could tremendously affect our client’s employment and his ability to support his family.
The Result
Our client received a Good Behaviour Bond and was required to make a donation to a charity selected by the Magistrate. No order against his licence was imposed.
Case Studies
How we made a successful appeal to put our client into community work instead of prison
The Charge
Our client had been charged with Burglary and Theft. He had a very limited criminal record and had also spent some time in custody.
In the Magistrates’ Court, he was sentenced to a term of imprisonment plus a Community Correction Order with unpaid community work hours.
The Strategy
The overall sentence did not reflect the offending or the offender’s personal circumstances and so we appealed to the Melbourne County Court.
We provided the prosecution and the court a brief chronology and outline of defence submissions prior to the sentence appeal. The offender’s personal circumstances were further ventilated, allowing the judge to gain a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding the offending.
The Result
In the County Court, the appeal against the sentence was granted and the young man was sentenced to a Community Correction Order only.
The result saw the young man avoid any further time in custody. The sentence more accurately reflected the offending itself. It also reflected that it often is in the community’s interest for young people to be rehabilitated in the community as opposed to being incarcerated.
Our Process
1
Book a free call
Book an initial consultation using our contact form. We’ll call you to discuss your matter and give you our expert, clear, and honest advice to help you decide moving forward. All for free.
2
Agreement
We send you an agreement that has a diagram that shows what we discussed and also a fees agreement clearly outlining the fee. What we quote is what we will charge you. No surprises
3
Strategy and execution
Together, we’ll devise a strategy and work relentlessly to make sure that you get the best possible outcome.
The Best Defence Lawyers
in Melbourne, here to help.
Bill Doogue
Director | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Andrew George
Director | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Kristina Kothrakis
Director | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Dee Giannopoulos
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Una Ebsworth
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Kate Da Costa
Partner
Sophie Parsons
Partner | In House Counsel | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Isabelle Skaburskis
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Amelia Ramsay
Partner
Avi Furstenberg
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Holly Boylan
Partner
Ophelia Hollway
Senior Associate | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Annamiek Van Loon
Senior Associate
Jon Ross
Senior Associate
Codey Larkin
Senior Associate
Josh Harris
Associate
Britt Llewellyn
Associate
Alex Shirrefs
Associate
Cassandra Knight- Grull
Lawyer
Maya George
Lawyer
Nikita Bailey
Lawyer
Ella Trickey
Lawyer
Jonathan Cooper
Lawyer
Edward Kline-Marantelli
Lawyer
Cosette Schilling
Lawyer
Lachie Davine
Lawyer
Rachelle Gorbachinska
Lawyer
Bill Doogue
Director | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Andrew George
Director | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Kristina Kothrakis
Director | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Dee Giannopoulos
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Una Ebsworth
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Kate Da Costa
Partner
Sophie Parsons
Partner | In House Counsel | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Isabelle Skaburskis
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Amelia Ramsay
Partner
Avi Furstenberg
Partner | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Holly Boylan
Partner
Ophelia Hollway
Senior Associate | Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
Annamiek Van Loon
Senior Associate
Jon Ross
Senior Associate
Codey Larkin
Senior Associate
Josh Harris
Associate
Britt Llewellyn
Associate
Alex Shirrefs
Associate
Cassandra Knight- Grull
Lawyer
Maya George
Lawyer
Nikita Bailey
Lawyer
Ella Trickey
Lawyer
Jonathan Cooper
Lawyer
Edward Kline-Marantelli
Lawyer
Cosette Schilling
Lawyer
Lachie Davine
Lawyer
Rachelle Gorbachinska
Lawyer