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Doogue + George Defence Lawyers

Doogue + George Defence Lawyers

4.8(219 reviews)See reviews ↓·Melbourne

About the company

Doogue + George Defence Lawyers is a criminal law firm founded by Bill Doogue in 1995. Its first office was established in Broadmeadows in 1995. The firm merged with Andrew George Solicitors in February 2013, with Lethbridges Barristers and Solicitors in 2021, and with Furstenberg Law in 2024. It has over 47,000 prosecutions defended, 20 criminal lawyers, 7 accredited criminal law specialists, and 5 directors. The firm operates 5 offices in Melbourne and has handled 430 jury trials. It was a founding member of the Australian Defence Lawyers Alliance (ADLA).

It is listed as a First Tier Criminal Law Defence Firm in the Doyle's Guide 2026 and has two of Victoria's five Preeminent Criminal Defence Lawyers as ranked by the Doyle's Guide 2026. It represented Abdul Nacer Benbrika in the first major terrorism trial in Australia, has acted for Federal and State politicians, and has represented the former Governor General of Australia. It runs the three largest white collar cases in Australia by size and quantum alleged.

It represents clients at all Victorian courts and interstate courts. Practice areas include murder, sexual offences, intervention orders, family violence applications, drug charges, white collar crimes, drink driving, other traffic matters, assault and violence, and bribery and corruption. The firm was previously awarded the C.C.H. Legal Technology award for a legal database called Crimebase, designed and programmed by Bill Doogue. It runs an annual conference in a different State each year, attended by criminal lawyers from all States and Territories.

What customers say

Based on genuine customer reviews

Criminal charges, intervention order matters and court appearances dominate the casework that clients describe in feedback about Doogue + George Defence Lawyers, with the firm's Melbourne practice drawing consistent praise for representation that is calm, strategic and clearly explained. Several reviewers name Jon Ross, crediting his attention to detail and the confidence he instilled as an FVIO matter moved towards a fair resolution. Shaneeta Muker is repeatedly singled out for legal expertise and courtroom work, including a matter in which serious charges were resolved in the client's favour.

Zoe earns thanks for prompt responses, communication with police after an assault and patient, genuine care shown to a distressed person. A recurring theme is how thoroughly clients were kept informed: Kristina, Sophie and Sharni are described as knowledgeable and understanding, taking time to explain each stage. Chris Draffen is credited with resolving two cases quickly, while Lauchie Davnie is remembered for measured guidance that carried a client from uncertainty to a strong outcome. Feedback also touches on family-centred proceedings and assault-related matters, with preparation and focus identified as what set the representation apart.

Criminal justice attorneySolicitorLegal servicesTax attorneyTrial attorney

Reviews

Reviews are taken from publicly available sources.

SS
Stefan Stoyanov9 July 2026

I would like to express my sincere gratitude and highest recommendation for Zoe. She was professional, clear, and genuinely supportive throughout the whole process. She gave me very good advice, had a strong strategy, and took the time to understand my needs and situation properly. Compared to a previous lawyer I had used, the difference was very clear - she far more prepared, responsive, and focused on achieving the best possible outcome. I was very happy with the result and truly appreciate her hard work and dedication. Highly recommended.

RH
Rit H4 July 2026

Chris Draffen is excellent at his work & very knowledgeable. He helped me resolve 2 cases quickly without wasting more time. Resulted in a good outcome for 2 cases. I was with EAS Legal + Dribbin & Brown before this (just wanted me to make a deposit, that's all & wasn't being clear), and they couldn't help resolve everything quickly, so I'm glad I swapped.

ND
Natcha Datp.26 June 2026

I am very grateful for the assistance I received from Doogue + George. Edward was professional, clear, patient, and effective in representing me. He negotiated strongly on my behalf and achieved an excellent result. As I was overseas, not confident with English, and unfamiliar with the legal process, the situation was very stressful for me. Edward remained calm, explained things clearly, and answered my questions with patience. He also listened carefully to my instructions and consistently focused on my position and objectives throughout the matter. I truly appreciate the support I received and would recommend Doogue + George to others.

MY
Marty Yilmaz17 June 2026

I reached out to Doogue + George Defence Lawyers and got in contact with Shaneeta Muker. I came to her facing an incredibly stressful situation involving criminal charges and an IVO matter. From our very first consultation, she demonstrated exceptional legal expertise, strategic thinking, and a reassuring level of professionalism. Thanks to her hard work, dedication, and brilliant representation, all of my criminal charges were completely removed, and the IVO matter was successfully resolved. She navigated the complexities of my case with absolute precision and kept me informed every step of the way. If you need a lawyer who is sharp, compassionate, and gets results, look no further than Shaneeta, She truly saved my future. Thank you once again and wishing you all the best.

MP
Maria Pamintuan2 June 2026

I would like to express my sincere gratitude and highest recommendation for Doogue + George, especially Zoe, Mica, and their outstanding team. Very happy with the outcome. From the start, they were the very first to return my call, which gave me confidence and peace of mind in their capability in handling a range of legal matters. What impressed me even more was Zoe's commitment beyond her responsibilities. She generously stayed behind to assist with another matter outside her scope. Her willingness to go the extra mile demonstrated genuine care and dedication to her clients.

SS
Safe Secure Loved29 May 2026

Every time I think of the situation I was in, I get triggered. I actually would rather not type at this minute thinking of what I was dragged into by force, but posting about Doogue +George's support helps me heal. Before engaging this firm, I prayed for all involved in my family-centered case -- lawyers, barristers, clerks, support staff, the other party -- for God to impart them with insight, clarity and to take best steps forward for a just outcome for me. Shaneeka and Zoe have held to the tenets of the law, given me commendable results. For this, I am immensely grateful. Thank you for your expertise. Will get in touch again to pursue the matter shall Order changes be required.

EC
Eleanor CT14 May 2026

We are incredibly grateful for Una’s support during a very stressful and overwhelming situation. She took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of our questions with patience, and helped us feel much more informed and reassured. Her calm, professional, and compassionate approach made a huge difference during a difficult time. We truly appreciated how approachable and knowledgeable she was. We would highly recommend Una to anyone needing trustworthy and supportive legal guidance.

Criminal lawyers in Melbourne compared

Ordered by rating, weighted by the number of reviews — businesses with only a handful of reviews do not jump to the top automatically. 10 businesses in this category in Melbourne are compared.

RankProviderRatingReviewsOpen Sat.
1Josh Smith Legal★ 5,0248Yes
2Hofman Carroll Criminal Law★ 5,0207No
3Elizabeth McKinnon, Criminal Barrister | Criminal Lawyer★ 5,0111Yes
4Seda Kilic Criminal Lawyers - Criminal Defence Lawyers Melbourne & Geelong★ 5,070Yes
5DSA Crime - Criminal Lawyers Melbourne★ 5,023Yes
10Doogue + George Defence Lawyers (this page)★ 4,8219Yes
Contact
Working hours
Monday00:00–24:00
Tuesday00:00–24:00
Wednesday00:00–24:00
Thursday00:00–24:00
Friday00:00–24:00
Saturday00:00–24:00
Sunday00:00–24:00