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James Dowsley & Associates (JDA) is a leading criminal defense law firm in Victoria, Australia, with offices in Melbourne, Frankston, and Dandenong. They specialize in representing clients across all...
James Dowsley & Associates Criminal Law - Melbourne is a specialized criminal law partnership founded in 2007 with over 30 staff members including 13 solicitors. The firm exclusively focuses on criminal law matters and operates from four strategic locations across Melbourne, with their primary office situated in Melbourne's CBD legal precinct. Led by Principal James Dowsley with over 30 years of experience, the firm has established itself as a Third Tier Leading Criminal Defence Law Firm in Victoria according to Doyle's Guide 2024, with multiple partners holding Accredited Specialist certifications in Criminal Law from the Law Institute of Victoria.
James Dowsley & Associates distinguishes itself through exclusive specialization in criminal law, ensuring unparalleled expertise and focused attention on every case. The firm maintains a client-centric approach that combines professional representation with compassionate support during stressful legal proceedings. With multiple Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law and consistent recognition in Doyle's Guide as Leading Criminal Defence Lawyers, the firm demonstrates proven expertise across all criminal law areas. Their commitment to justice includes 24/7 phone support, transparent communication, and a trauma-aware approach that prioritizes client wellbeing and rehabilitation. The firm's involvement in high-profile terrorism, homicide, and federal drug cases showcases their capability to handle complex matters while maintaining their belief that everyone deserves fair and unbiased legal representation.
The firm is led by James Dowsley, Principal and Founder with over 30 years of criminal law experience. Domenic Care and Brett Barratt serve as Partners, both holding Accredited Specialist certifications in Criminal Law and recognized in Doyle's Guide 2024 for Leading Criminal Defence and Traffic Lawyers. Courtney Robertson, a recently admitted solicitor, brings a trauma-aware approach specializing in family violence, sexual offences, and drug matters. Amy Hale serves as Criminal Defence Lawyer while Bridie O'Malley holds the Senior Associate position. The team includes 13 solicitors total, with several lawyers possessing over 10 years of experience and three additional lawyers holding Accredited Specialist certifications beyond the named partners.
James Dowsley & Associates offers flexible payment arrangements including Legal Aid representation for eligible clients. The firm provides selective pro bono services for matters of legal significance or cases important to civil liberties of accused persons. Specific fee structures and payment terms are available upon consultation, with the firm maintaining transparent communication about costs throughout the legal process.
James Dowsley & Associates operates from four strategic locations across Melbourne. The primary office is located at Level 7, 533 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 (Phone: +61 3 8602 1400), positioned in the legal precinct moments from Melbourne Magistrates' Court. Additional offices serve the broader Melbourne area: Frankston at Level 1 Suite 4, 405-409 Nepean Highway, Frankston, Victoria 3199; Dandenong at Shop 8, 147-151 Foster Street, Dandenong, Victoria 3176; and Highett at 507a Highett Rd, Highett Victoria 3190 (Phone: +61 3 9555 4442). The main contact number is +61 3 9781 4900, with offices operating Monday to Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
James Dowsley & Associates Criminal Law - Melbourne
Level 7/533 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Melbourne VIC
Phone
+61386021400
Website
Office Hours
Mon-Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm
By appointment available
Languages
English
Payment Methods
Cash, Card, EFTPOS
Payment plans available
Contact James Dowsley & Associates Criminal Law - Melbourne for expert legal advice and representation.