Business Details
Emergency
services
Trusted Criminal Defence Lawyers in Melbourne
Tony Hargreaves & Partners Lawyers is one of Melbourne's leading criminal defence law firms, representing clients in matters ranging from traffic offences to major criminal trials and appeals. With over 35 years of experience, our senior lawyers are recognised as industry leaders, maintaining close relationships with Melbourne's top barristers. We specialise in complex cases involving white-collar crime, fraud, drug trafficking, and violence-related offences, while also handling professional misconduct reviews and civil litigation.Our practice is built on referrals from the Victorian Bar and law firms seeking external expertise, ensuring clients receive direct access to practitioners responsible for their cases. Recognised as a first-tier firm in Doyles Guide, we prioritise expertise, sound advice, and clear communication to deliver personalised legal solutions.
Services
Criminal Law
Litigation
Professional Misconduct
Bail Applications
Drug Offences
Sex Offences
Murder & Homicide
Asset Confiscation
Criminal Appeals
Traffic Offences
Highlights and features
- Over 35 years of experience in criminal defence law
- Recognised as a first-tier firm in Doyles Guide
- Direct access to practitioners managing your case
- Specialise in complex trials, appeals, and regulatory reviews
- Maintain partnerships with Melbourne's leading barristers
Services
Criminal Law
Our criminal law practice handles offences ranging from traffic violations to serious crimes like murder and drug trafficking. We represent clients in trials, appeals, and bail applications, focusing on protecting rights and achieving optimal outcomes. With expertise in white-collar crime and fraud cases, our team provides strategic defence solutions tailored to each client's needs.
Professional Misconduct
We assist clients challenging decisions by regulatory bodies through VCAT reviews. Our services cover licensing disputes, healthcare practitioner matters, and legal profession misconduct cases. By re-evaluating decisions from bodies like AHPRA and the Business Licensing Authority, we advocate for fair outcomes in disciplinary and accreditation proceedings.
Litigation
Our litigation team handles commercial disputes, personal injury claims, and administrative law matters. We represent clients in contractual conflicts, defamation cases, and enforcement of judgments across state and federal courts. Specialising in alternative dispute resolution, we aim to resolve conflicts efficiently while preparing for trial when necessary.
Bail Applications
We provide urgent bail assistance, preparing applications to secure release from custody. Our approach addresses bail conditions, risk assessments, and court presentations. With 24/7 availability, we guide clients through police station bail processes and court applications for serious charges requiring magistrate review.
Drug Offences
Specialising in drug trafficking and possession charges, we defend clients facing severe penalties. Our strategies address evidence challenges, sentencing mitigation, and asset confiscation issues. With experience in complex drug operations, we combine courtroom advocacy with negotiation to reduce charges or secure alternative resolutions.
People
Tony Hargreaves
Director
With over 35 years in criminal defence, Tony leads the firm's criminal law practice. Recognised in Doyles Guide, he handles complex trials and appeals, maintaining strong barrister relationships to strengthen client representation.
Peter Brown
Director
Peter specialises in serious criminal matters and after-hours legal emergencies. His expertise includes bail applications and police interview strategies, ensuring clients receive immediate support during critical stages of legal proceedings.
Fiona Jenkins
Partner
Fiona focuses on professional misconduct cases and regulatory reviews. She represents clients before VCAT and disciplinary bodies, addressing licensing disputes and healthcare practitioner matters with a strategic approach to challenging decisions.
Caroline Salter
Lawyer
Caroline handles criminal litigation and appellate work, with experience in sex offences and fraud cases. She provides detailed case analysis and courtroom advocacy, ensuring thorough preparation for trial or appeal.
Beth Marsh
Lawyer
Beth specialises in traffic offences and lower court matters, offering practical solutions for clients facing driving-related charges. Her approach balances negotiation with robust defence strategies to achieve favourable outcomes.
Questions
What should I do if arrested by police?
Provide your name and address, stay calm, and immediately request to contact Tony Hargreaves & Partners. Avoid making statements or signing documents until speaking with a lawyer.
What happens during a police interview?
You have the right to silence. Police must allow contact with a lawyer. Refusing to answer questions cannot be used against you, and admissions may strengthen the prosecution's case.
How do I handle a court summons?
Provide the summons to a lawyer immediately. Failing to attend court without legal arrangements may result in an arrest warrant being issued.
What if police refuse bail?
Apply for bail before a court or bail justice. Prepare a strong application addressing risks like flight or public safety. Serious charges may face a presumption against bail.
What rights exist during a property search?
Police need a warrant unless exceptions apply. You're not required to assist in locating items. Retain a list of seized items and avoid making statements during the search.
Videos
