Criminal Lawyers in Darwin

We assist with criminal law cases involving drug charges, breaking and entering and more.

Have you been charged with drug offences: possession, selling or supplying? Are you being wrongfully accused of assault and intend to fight the accusations in court? It can happen to almost anybody; one day you’re going about business as usual and then all of a sudden, you find yourself in an unexpected and unwanted situation. When you find yourself being charged with a criminal offence, what do you do? Where do you start? The answer is to consult a criminal lawyer before taking any action.

Whereas civil law involves disputes between individuals and businesses related to money, criminal law can be significantly more serious, often involving the potential for substantial fines and imprisonment. At Bradley Solicitors, our criminal lawyers represent clients in bail applications, pleas and sentencing, and throughout trial. We’ll take the time to carefully advise you on the court processes you’re likely to encounter, answer any questions or concerns you may have, deal with the police and courts on your behalf, and ultimately protect your rights and alleviate some of the pressure you’ll be facing.

For representation or advice in Darwin, Katherine or elsewhere throughout the Northern Territory and Australia, contact our team on (08) 8941 1677.

Drug Charges in Darwin

If you’ve been charged with drug possession or supply, getting legal advice early can make a real difference. At Bradley Solicitors, we can help you understand the charges you’re facing, your options and what to expect throughout the court process. Drug offences in the Northern Territory are dealt with under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1990 (NT). The penalties depend on factors such as the type and amount of drug involved, as well as whether you’re charged with possession, supply or another drug offence.

Drug possession can involve having drugs in your physical possession or having control over them. The seriousness of the charge can depend on the type and quantity of the drug.

Drug supply is treated more seriously than simple possession and can include selling, giving away or otherwise supplying drugs to another person. If you’re found with an amount above a certain threshold, the law may presume that you intended to supply the drug rather than possess it for personal use. This can result in significantly more serious penalties.

We represent clients facing drug possession and supply charges in the Darwin Local Court and the NT Supreme Court. We’ll carefully review the evidence and circumstances of your case, explain your options in plain language and look for any issues that may provide grounds for having charges reduced or withdrawn. If you’ve been charged with drug possession or supply, don’t try to navigate the process alone. We’re here to provide straightforward legal advice and help you understand what happens next.

Assault Lawyer in Darwin

An assault charge can have serious consequences, ranging from fines and community-based orders to imprisonment. Under the Criminal Code Act 1983 (NT), assault offences can range from a single push through to unlawfully causing serious harm, which carries a maximum penalty of up to 14 years imprisonment and is dealt with in the NT Supreme Court.

Aggravated assault, including assaults committed in company, against a public officer or involving a weapon, carries a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment and can result in a criminal conviction and time in prison.

Your individual circumstances and the evidence against you are important. Possible defences, including self-defence or accident, should be considered from your first court appearance.

At Bradley Solicitors, we represent clients in both the Darwin Local Court and NT Supreme Court across all types of assault charges. We’ll explain your options clearly and help you understand what happens next.

Domestic Violence Lawyers in Darwin

If you’re involved in a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) matter in Darwin, getting legal advice can help you understand your rights and options, whether you’re seeking protection or responding to an order.

A DVO is made under the Domestic and Family Violence Act 2007 (NT) and can set conditions around contact, where you can go and where you can live. An interim DVO can sometimes be made on the same day an application is filed, including an order requiring someone to leave their home before they have an opportunity to respond.

Breaching a DVO is a criminal offence and can carry a penalty of up to 2 years imprisonment, even if the protected person initiated contact.

At Bradley Solicitors, we assist with applying for or responding to DVOs and PVROs, DVO hearings, changing or challenging DVO conditions and allegations of DVO breaches. We can also assist with related criminal charges, including assault, threats and property damage. Whether you’re seeking protection or have been served with an order, we’ll explain the process clearly, advise you on your options and support you throughout your matter.

Bail Applications in Darwin

If you have been refused bail and remanded in custody in Darwin, specialist legal representation is needed urgently. The Bail Act 1982 (NT) creates presumptions against bail for serious offences and prior bail breaches, meaning release will not be granted without a well-prepared application that directly addresses the court's concerns. We make urgent bail applications in the Darwin Local Court and the NT Supreme Court, including outside business hours, and can apply to vary bail conditions that are unworkable after the fact.

• Urgent bail applications across all NT courts
• Applications where a presumption against bail applies
• Bail condition variation
• Bail breach and revocation hearings

Property Offences in Darwin

Property offences under the Criminal Code Act 1983 (NT) range from stealing, which carries up to 7 years imprisonment, through to aggravated burglary and armed robbery, both of which carry life imprisonment as a maximum. Even charges that appear minor can result in a criminal record that affects employment, professional licensing and international travel. We review the full prosecution evidence on every matter and advise on available defences including lack of intent and honest claim of right.

• Stealing and aggravated stealing
• Unlawful entry and burglary
• Robbery and armed robbery
• Receiving stolen property and fraud

Criminal law is used to regulate conduct in society and to sanction those who commit crimes. There are typically two parties involved in a criminal case: the Police and the defendant. Some examples may include:

• Illicit drug offences
  
• Public order offences
  
• Murder & manslaughter
  
• Assault & sexual offences
  
• Breaking & entering
  
• Domestic violence
  
• Theft
  
• Stalking, harassment & abduction
  
• Fraud or dishonesty
  
• Abduction

At Bradley Solicitors, we have experience in both the Local courts – where less serious matters are heard – and the Supreme Court, where the most serious cases are prosecuted such as major drug crimes, sexual assault and murder. When you find yourself having to defend a case, speak to our team about the options available to you. We stand by our clients' side, providing risk mitigation, advice and more.

Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, and it’s important to seek legal advice that is careful, accurate and focused on protecting your rights. Choosing criminal lawyers Darwin residents rely on means having access to informed guidance at every stage of the legal process, from initial advice through to court representation.

The right legal support can helps you understand your position, your options and the possible outcomes, without making unrealistic promises. Bradley Solicitors is chosen by clients because we aim to offer:

• Clear legal guidance – Advice is provided in plain language, helping clients understand the charges they face, the legal process involved and the options available to them.
• Experience with criminal law matters – Ongoing involvement in criminal law matters ensures familiarity with procedures, evidentiary requirements and court expectations.
• Local knowledge of Darwin courts – Understanding local court processes and practices helps support informed preparation and effective representation.
• Client-focused communication – Matters are handled with discretion, respect and sensitivity, recognising the personal and legal impact criminal proceedings can have.
• Ethical representation – All advice and advocacy are delivered in line with professional obligations, focusing on lawful, appropriate strategies rather than guaranteed outcomes.

Engaging dedicated criminal lawyers helps ensure your matter is approached carefully, responsibly and with your legal rights at the forefront of every decision.