Senior Criminal Lawyer & Accredited Specialist.
Ben is an LIV Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law whose work is centred on helping people navigate some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
His practice spans the full spectrum of criminal defence and quasi-criminal law, from assaults, fraud, sex offences, drug offences and driving matters through to serious indictable matters in the County and Supreme Courts. He also acts in Intervention Order proceedings, and in regulatory and disciplinary matters involving agencies such as WorkSafe, AHPRA and Medical Boards.
Ben appears regularly across Victoria’s courts and tribunals, with a practice built primarily in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and regular appearances at Ringwood, Dandenong, Frankston and Heidelberg Magistrates’ Courts. His experience ranges from regular court appearances to complex appellate matters and high-profile proceedings. Whatever the forum, his approach remains the same: considered, strategic, and focused on practical solutions.
Beyond his practice, Ben serves as an Executive Committee Member of the Law Institute of Victoria’s Criminal Law Section and contributes to reform work through the LIV Diversion Working Group and Homelessness Working Group. He founded the Criminal Defence Lawyers Network Victoria in order to bring defence lawyers together from all over Victoria to share knowledge.
His interest in the law has taken him abroad as well, including study in Buenos Aires, Argentina, exploring international human rights law.
At the end of the day, Ben’s role is simple: to stand beside clients when the stakes are high, steady the ship, and work tirelessly towards the best possible outcome.
Outside of work, Ben enjoys spending time with his family, trying out new restaurants, and watching the F1 and the Carlton Football Club.
Questions About Criminal Defence Law. We Have Answers.
Our lawyers have experience appearing in all jurisdictions throughout Victoria and in some cases, other Australian states.
What are my rights if I’m arrested by the police?
When you’re arrested by the police in Victoria, you have several rights protected by law. These include the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, the right to be informed of the reason for your arrest, and the right to be treated with dignity and respect. You also have the right to know the identity of the arresting officer and to ask them for their badge number or identification. It’s important to cooperate with the police to a reasonable extent but also to assert your rights firmly and respectfully.
Will my case be kept confidential?
Discussions with your lawyer are confidential, protected by legal professional privilege. Your lawyer is obligated to keep information you share with them confidential, with few exceptions (such as if they believe you’re planning to commit a future crime). However, information related to your criminal case is not kept entirely confidential. Court proceedings are typically public, meaning members of the public and the media may have access to information about your case. Additionally, certain sensitive information, such as your personal details, may be protected under privacy laws.
How can I best prepare for court appearances or hearings?
To prepare for court appearances or hearings, it’s essential to work closely with your lawyer. They will advise you on what to expect, help you understand the legal process, and prepare your defence strategy. It’s important to provide your lawyer with all relevant information and documents related to your case. Dressing appropriately and behaving respectfully in court is also crucial. Your lawyer will guide you on how to present yourself in court and how to respond to questions from the judge or prosecutor. Additionally, practising your testimony with your lawyer can help you feel more confident and prepared on the day of the appearance or hearing.
How can I protect my rights during police searches or interrogations?
To protect your rights during police searches or interrogations, it’s crucial to understand and assert your rights. If the police want to search you or your property, you have the right to ask for a search warrant unless they have a valid reason to conduct a warrantless search (such as reasonable suspicion of a crime). During interrogations, you have the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. It’s often advisable to exercise these rights and refrain from answering questions until you’ve spoken with your lawyer.