The Best Criminal
The Fastest way to Find Wellington’s Best Criminal Lawyers.
We’ll help you:
- Identify the top Criminal lawyers who are ready to help you
- Shortlist the best of the best in your area
- Show you how to get in touch today
- Avoid wasting time searching and scrolling
The 10 Best Criminal
Lawyers In Wellington
We Have Listed The Top 10 Criminal Lawyer In Wellington To Help You Choose The Best Professional Criminal Lawyer For Your Needs.

Address:
4/310 Tinakori Road, Thorndon, Wellington 6011
Phone: 64 4 471 1000
Website: cameron-lawyers.co.nz
Cameron Lawyers
We provide professional advice to help people and businesses proactively manage their legal affairs and protect their futures.
Established in 1983, we’ve had the privilege of working with some of our longest standing clients since day one, and we’re ready to equip you with the legal advice to tackle life’s challenges. With a focus on our areas of expertise, we assist our clients with:
– General personal legal matters
– Commercial matters, including disputes and litigation
– Criminal law matters.
– Our style is simple. We work hard for our clients and deliver results.
You can expect us to be available to you, keep you well-informed, and deliver free, frank, and helpful advice when you need it.
We understand that finding the right lawyer is often about ‘fit’. We take the time to get to know you at the very start to ensure we understand your objectives, and tailor our advice accordingly.
We welcome new clients and offer a no-obligation initial consultation to see if we’re the right fit for you.
For certain matters, we also accept legal aid appointments.
Find out how we can support you.

Address:
Level 8 Legal House 101 Lambton Quay Wellington CBD Wellington 6011 New Zealand
Phone: 04 499 0155
Website: antunoviclaw.co.nz
Antunovic Law
We are Wellington’s leading criminal defence firm. We have been in practice for over three decades and appeared in over 500 cases. Over that time we have appeared in some of New Zealand’s highest profile cases, as well as hundreds of small matters. For us no case is too big or too small.
If you’re facing criminal charges, we can help. We’re experienced criminal law specialists. In fact, criminal law is the only area of law we practice. Few firms can say the same. Our dedicated focus to criminal law, ensures our clients get the right advice at the right time.
If you’re facing criminal charges we can help. No one knows Wellington’s Courts or the criminal law better than us. This means you’ll get the right options at the right time with as little disruption to your life as possible.
We’re completely independent. That means the advice you get is 100% independent from the Public Defence Service, the Police and other Government Departments.
Your first call is completely free. In most cases we’ll be able to give you an overview of your options, naturally you will be under no obligation whatsoever to continue to use our services. (04) 499 0155
We are Wellington’s leading criminal defence law firm. People who know the criminal legal system choose us, but don’t take our word for it research our firm on the internet for yourself.
The criminal law is complex. That’s why we believe that the best criminal defence lawyers practice criminal law exclusively, so that’s all we do. Not many others can say the same.
Access, confidentiality, and expert advice are guaranteed parts of our service, that’s why when you call you’ll talk to a lawyer: not administration staff.

Phil Mitchell Barrister & Solicitor
Since graduating in 1997, Phil has worked as a lawyer in Wellington, Nelson, and Europe.
Since establishing his own litigation practice in 2003, he has worked on personal grievance claims for employees, he has also acted for national charities and NGO small to medium-sized businesses, assisting with restructures, employment disputes and employment agreement revision and compliance.
He is also an experienced criminal lawyer, having acted in a range of cases from minor traffic prosecutions to major criminal jury trials, with impressive results.
Phil has acted for both employers (be they large corporations, national charities, or small businesses) and employees Phil understands how both sides think.
If you have lost your licence but need to drive in order to work or take care of your family, you may be entitled to a limited licence.
Phil has extensive criminal law experience dating back to 1986. He has appeared in all manner of criminal matters and has successfully represented clients

Thomas Dewar Sziranyi Letts
The partners at TDSL have a wealth of experience in diverse areas of the law.
We collaborate as a team across the disciplines to give our clients the benefit of that wider expertise. Acting for people from all walks of life, our lawyers are highly skilled, caring and practical. We pride ourselves on giving outstanding legal service, access to justice and our contribution to the legal and wider community. A key focus for TDSL has always been the training and mentoring of new lawyers.
TDSL started life in 1995 as a specialist litigation and disputes resolution firm. Nearly 30 years later, we have grown to offer a range of legal services, so we can be with our clients on their whole life journey.
As a large litigation practice, our court lawyers have the skills and experience to represent our clients in any courtroom in the country.
Thomas Dewar Sziranyi Letts are widely recognised as leading practitioners in family law. We advise and represent clients on a wide variety of family matters, from simple, amicable separations or parenting disputes through to highly contentious cases involving complex family trusts and business interests. Our firm has extensive experience handling complicated family law disputes and regularly receives referrals from colleagues on matters requiring in depth family law knowledge and experience.
Family law disputes must be handled in a way which causes the least possible harm to important ongoing family relationships. We strongly encourage our clients to participate in alternative dispute resolution methods, such as private mediation, where appropriate.
We distinguish ourselves from other family law firms by being selective about when to advise litigation rather than defaulting to this option in every case. While our team is made up of excellent litigators, we pride ourselves on taking a more purposeful and goal-oriented approach to each case.
In the event that litigation becomes necessary, we will leverage our extensive experience as litigation lawyers to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients through the Court process.

Cathie Sheat Barrister and Solicitor
If you find yourself in trouble with the authorities or dealing with a Family Court problem call me, Cathie Sheat, for expert legal assistance.
Whatever the problem, whether you need a criminal defence lawyer, family court lawyer or expert traffic lawyer, I can stand by your side and act as committed and effective representation in Court. I will skillfully negotiate on your behalf and provide knowledgeable advice as someone who understands our legal system.
Criminal
Call me if you are facing criminal charges. Whether you’re pleading guilty, not guilty or simply don’t know what to do, you need advice from someone who will work to get the best possible outcome for you.
Traffic
I’m often called upon as a drink driving lawyer, and I can assist with a wide range of traffic offences. I can also advise whether you can apply for a limited licence (work licence). I have successfully argued for many of my clients to keep their driver licences.
Limited Licences
If you have been disqualified from driving or had your driver’s licence suspended, you may be able to get a Limited Licence (work licence). Call me to find out more.
Family
Your family and your home life are the cornerstone of your emotional wellbeing. Call me if you are facing family law issues, including Child-care arrangements, Separation or divorce, Domestic violence orders and Changing gender on a Birth Certificate
Mediation
As well as a criminal defence lawyer, family court lawyer and expert traffic lawyer, I am a LEADRS Accredited Mediator, and as such I can help you to resolve cases through alternatives such as dispute resolution and mediation, avoiding the stress of Court and enabling both parties to move forward with an amicable result.
For more information on my services browse the website now or visit the Contact page to get in touch.
Your first 20-minute phone call to me is free.

Address:
17 Braithwaite Street, Karori Wellington, 6012 New Zealand
Phone: 64 4 499 8357
Website: turkingtonlawyer.co.nz
Gary Turkington
Gary is a Barrister, Lawyer, and Criminal Law specialist based in Wellington with a vast array of experience spanning over 40 years in the legal profession. For more information on Gary’s areas of expertise and experience please take a look at the legal services discussed on the site. If you identify with any of the associated issues or experience discussed, please get in touch with Gary by phone, email or the form located on the contact information page here
Background and Qualifications
– LLB Victoria University Wellington NZ 1971
– Admitted to Bar 1972
– Barrister sole 1987
– President Wellington District Law Society 1995
– Vice President NZ Law Society 1996
– Member Crown Panel since 1992
– Member NZ Criminal Bar Association
– Editor Garrow and Turkington Criminal Law (Lexis publication)
Gary has a over 40 years of legal experience and specialises in many areas of the law.

Address:
Level 14, Midland Chambers, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington 6011,
Phone: 64 4 472 0929
Website: treadwells.co.nz
Treadwells Barrister & Solicitor
New Zealand’s longest serving legal practice. We have provided trusted legal advice to many generations of Wellingtonians and aspire to continue this service for generations to come.
We give practical and timely advice. We assist and support our clients to achieve the best legal outcomes in an efficient manner. We are future focused.
Treadwells brings together a highly talented team of legal practitioners who provide both expertise across many areas of legal practice and general legal services to people of all walks of life.
Our criminal and litigation lawyers have expertise in the full range of criminal matters.
We can provide expert assistance in establishing, maintaining and terminating employment relationships for both employers and employees, and provide timely advice on all aspects of employment law and health and safety.
The overlap between family law and other areas of law is increasing.
As a general practice firm we are well placed to advise and act for clients whose commercial, trust, or property activities have family law implications. We routinely advise on Property (Relationships) Act 1976 matters.
We act for and advise clients in respect of family, charitable, and private trusts. We regularly work with clients to create durable trust structures that protect personal assets from business and creditor risk and relationship property claims.
Treadwells has extensive experience in all areas of property law, from residential conveyancing, to commercial leasing and acquisitions, and property development.
We recognise that many New Zealanders are passionate about owning property but that purchasing is a significant event that often requires considerable commitment.
Treadwells has a strong commercial law practice and acts for a large number of companies, agencies, and small to medium sized business.
We provide pragmatic, and cost-effective legal and strategic advice focused on your best interests.
Litigation is not always the best means of resolving disputes and we can advise on a range of other options for dispute resolution, which can bring about a beneficial outcome without the expense and risk that accompanies litigation.

Address:
Level 8, Legal House 101 Lambton Quay Wellington 6011
Phone: 027 703 8972
Website: kfpreston.com
Kevin Preston Barrister
Previously Wellington’s Public Defender, Kevin Preston is one of the Wellington area’s leading criminal, regulatory and disciplinary practitioners.
Kevin is dual-qualified; first as a solicitor advocate in England and Wales, then as a barrister in New Zealand. He specialises in representing both individuals and corporations facing prosecutions of serious crime, and professionals experiencing disciplinary investigations and proceedings by regulatory bodies.
He has built a reputation as a highly skilled and approachable advocate. Kevin is authorised by the Law Society to receive direct instructions and is approved at the highest level by Legal Aid Services. If you require representation, contact Kevin by email or phone.
Over 30 Years of Advocacy
Kevin has extensive experience defending serious crime, including allegations of supplying Class A drugs, murder, corporate manslaughter and serious fraud. He frequently appears in front of the Parole Board.
He has also protected the interests of professionals in medical, educational, legal and advisory fields experiencing disciplinary investigations and proceedings. He holds a Master’s degree in employment law.
Regularly appearing in the High Court and Court of Appeal, Kevin is a skilled appellate lawyer. In 2021, he successfully represented Daniel Fitzgerald in the Supreme Court. This case brought human rights to the forefront of contemporary New Zealand judicial reasoning.

Quay Legal
Lucie Scott is a barrister with over a 14 years of experience specialising solely in criminal defence work. She is a certified provider to the highest category of legal aid services and is on the Duty Solicitor roster and the PDLA scheme. Lucie has a high success rate conducting cases from minor disorderly and traffic offences through to serious sexual and violence offences.
Lucie has a passion for ensuring that every one of her clients, no matter their status or background, receives the highest standard of representation in the criminal justice system. She has a sound knowledge of the relevant legislation and maintains effective relationships with the major stakeholders to promote the best outcome for her clients.
Lucie facilitates the NZLS Duty Lawyer course in Wellington and is the convenor of the Wellington Criminal Law Committee.
Lucie is lecturing at the College of Law and is an executive member of the CbA.

Address:
Level 20 157 Lambton Quay Wellington 6011 New Zealand
Phone: 64 4 472 1050
Website: lcc.co.nz
Luke Cunningham Clere
As the office of the Wellington Crown Solicitor, we are leaders in all aspects of criminal law and enforcement. We are responsible for prosecuting all serious crime throughout the Wellington region, and have some of the leading litigators in the country. We provide a full range of criminal and regulatory enforcement services for public sector agencies throughout Aotearoa.
Based in Wellington, this role requires the conduct of jury trials and other litigation on behalf of the Crown and other public sector bodies.
While the prosecution of criminal jury trials is a key part of this role, our clients span the public-sector spectrum, including national and local government, Crown entities, professional regulators, district health boards and other statutory bodies. This ensures there will be a wide variety of interesting and challenging work.
We offer a variety of staff welfare and training initiatives including training and mentoring programmes, flexible working arrangements, and a structured time off in lieu policy.
We are looking for an intermediate + lawyer with a specialty in criminal litigation. Ideally, you will have been classified as an Intermediate Crown prosecutor by Crown Law, or PAL 2 (or above) by the Ministry of Justice.
Ideally, candidates will:
– Share our public service ethos
– Be a confident litigator.
– Be able to rigorously analyse complex legal issues combined with the ability to find practical solutions.
– Have strong people skills – the ability to engage with people, to listen, adopt a client service focus, and maintain collaboration.
– Demonstrate cultural competence including respect for Te Ao Māori, and familiarity with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application to the work of government agencies.
We are committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from everyone who has the skills and attributes we are looking for.
