Criminal law protects the rights of individuals and organisations accused of offences. Whether you’re facing police investigation, court proceedings or regulatory action, the right defence lawyer safeguards your liberty, reputation and future.
Fantastic Lawyers™ connects people and businesses worldwide with trusted criminal defence and white collar crime specialists. We highlight firms known for strategic case management, courtroom advocacy and discreet handling of high-stakes matters.
What Criminal Defence Lawyers Do
- Police Station & Early Advice – interviews under caution, voluntary attendance, arrests and warrants
- Bail, Remand & Pre-Charge Strategy – representations on bail, charging decisions and case theory
- Magistrates’/Lower Court Defence – summary offences, first appearances and case management
- Crown/Indictable Defence – trials for serious offences, expert evidence and jury advocacy
- Appeals & Post-Conviction – appeals against conviction/sentence and confiscation challenges
- White Collar & Economic Crime – fraud, bribery/corruption, money laundering, sanctions and market abuse
- Regulatory & Investigations – corporate internal investigations, dawn raids, interviews and self-reports
- Road Traffic & Driving Offences – drink/drug driving, speeding, disqualification avoidance
- Orders & Asset Recovery – restraint, confiscation, POCA/forfeiture and proceeds-of-crime litigation
- Reputation & Crisis Response – media strategy, stakeholder communications and privacy management
Why Choose a Recommended Defence Lawyer?
Top defence lawyers combine meticulous case preparation with decisive advocacy and negotiation. Fantastic Lawyers™ highlights firms recognised for outcomes, discretion and 24/7 responsiveness in urgent situations.
Browse by Location
We’re building detailed city and country guides so you can quickly compare defence teams by case type, court experience and availability. In the meantime, tell us about your situation and we’ll point you to suitable options.
Criminal Defence FAQs
Answers to common questions about arrests, interviews, funding, pleas and sentencing.
What should I do if I’m arrested or invited to a police interview?
Ask for legal representation immediately and do not answer substantive questions until advised by a lawyer. Provide only basic identification details as required by law and follow your lawyer’s guidance during the interview.
Can I get bail?
Bail depends on risk factors such as absconding, interference with witnesses and re-offending. Your lawyer can propose conditions (e.g. curfew, surety, passport surrender) to address risks and improve your chances.
Should I plead guilty or not guilty?
This decision should follow legal advice after disclosure review. Consider evidence strength, available defences, sentencing guidelines and the impact of early-plea credit in your jurisdiction.
How are legal fees handled in criminal cases?
Funding options vary by jurisdiction and case. Some matters qualify for legal aid subject to means and merits; private cases are typically hourly, fixed-fee or brief fees for counsel. Obtain a written costs agreement at the outset.
What happens at trial?
Your lawyer will challenge prosecution evidence, cross-examine witnesses and present your case using legal and factual defences. Expert evidence may be used. A judge (and sometimes a jury) will determine guilt and, if convicted, sentence according to guidelines.
What is white collar crime?
Non-violent economic crimes such as fraud, bribery, insider dealing, market manipulation, sanctions breaches and money laundering. Cases often involve parallel regulatory inquiries and complex digital evidence.
Can I travel while under investigation or on bail?
Travel may be restricted by bail conditions or court orders. Discuss any travel plans with your lawyer well in advance; applications to vary conditions are sometimes possible with proper justification.
Will a conviction show on my record?
Yes. The impact on your criminal record, background checks and future travel depends on local law and the offence. In some jurisdictions, records can be sealed or expunged after a period; seek jurisdiction-specific advice.
⚖️ If you’re facing urgent action (arrest, interview or dawn raid), contact a defence lawyer immediately. Acting early can shape charging decisions and case strategy.