Criminal Lawyer Ballina
Every story has two sides. We defend yours.
Call now on (02) 9696 1361 or email us at [email protected] for a consultation with our Ballina criminal defence team.
Max was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly caring. He took the time to listen to my concerns and was always available whenever I needed him. Whether it was a quick phone call or an in-depth discussion about the details of my case, Max made sure I felt supported and informed every step of the way.
The dedication and expertise that Max and the HUGO Law Firm demonstrated have truly made a difference in my life. I highly recommend Max Hasler and the entire team at HUGO Law Firm to anyone in need of legal advice in the ACT. Their professionalism, compassion, and availability are second to none.
Thank you, Max and HUGO Law Firm, for your exceptional service!
The negative reviews appear to be fake and do not represent a true experience with McKenna Taylor.
The other reviews appear to be fake and from a competing law firm as all accounts only have one other review (being the other firm) and were made at the same time. Very damaging and should be legal.
If you have any doubt, just give the team a call and talk to them yourself!
Max took over one of the legal disagreement of mine. He was highly professional, understanding and compassionate. Max is highly educated, informed with current legislation and provides a welcoming environment. He is honest about recommendations.
Dealing with complex disabilities both staff member were accommodating to myself, my needs and my support animal.
Highly recommend Hugo Law group!
Communication was excellent throughout—he regularly updated me, clarified important points, and made sure my concerns were heard and addressed. His preparation was thorough, and he approached the case with seriousness and confidence, anticipating the challenges ahead.
Ultimately, the case concluded successfully with all charges dismissed by the prosecutor. The legal fees were reasonable, and the quality of service exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend this lawyer for anyone seeking knowledgeable and committed legal representation.
very well together and were very thorough and very experienced.Rebecca knows what she is talking about. All in all, I had a positive experience and I highly recommend Hugo law 10 stars 🌟 for me .
At the end of the day, Max achieved the best possible outcome for me.
Max was very professional in his dealings regarding my situation from beginning to end, everything was explained to me and Max followed through.
I would highly recommend Max to anyone & I would gladly use Max again if I needed him.
She achieved the result I hoped for
and I am so pleased that the Hugo Law Group was recommended to me. They really do adhere to their motto of there being two sides to every story.
With appreciation and gratitude
Sue Mitchell
From the initial request to the final result, the understanding and acceptance of my case was first rate.
Sarah was amazing throughout and made my situation manageable, her care and approach ensures all parties involved in my case were well informed.
The result was great but the support was better!
I was as stressed as stressed could be and after ringing around for a few lawyers I did not make another call after Adrian .
I was looking at serious charges and after Adrian sorted me out I got minimal sentencing , even from the moment I talked to him on the phone I felt comfortable , cannot Reccomend Adrian enough . Thanks mate
They took the time to meticulously review every detail of my case, leaving no stone unturned. Their thorough understanding of the law and attention to detail were instrumental in navigating the complexities of the situation. What truly sets them apart, however, was the compassion and empathy they showed me throughout the entire process.
In moments of uncertainty, they were pillars of strength and reassurance. They listened attentively to my concerns, provided clear and concise explanations of legal procedures, and always kept my best interests at heart. It was evident that they genuinely cared about my well-being and was dedicated to achieving a favourable outcome for me.
Thanks to their diligent efforts and unwavering support, my case concluded with a positive resolution. Their legal expertise, combined with their heartfelt compassion, made all the difference. I cannot thank them enough for their outstanding representation.
I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for their clients are truly unparalleled.
Highly recommend
The whole time I felt supported and well informed about what would happen and what our desired outcome was. Adrian was also very knowledgeable and was always on hand with good advice about anything I had questions about.
Overall, my experience was one of profound professionalism and excellent service.
Thank you Adrian and the team at Hugo Law.
– Luci
They are your Number 1 criminal lawyers to go to nothing is ever to complex for these guys they will always find a way to defend you and your situation.
This is my tribute to send 100% positive feedback for Adrian McKenna at McKenna Taylor, to give heartfelt thanks for helping get part of my life back when found not guilty by the ACT Magistrates Court.
I first started being represented by Adrian in late 2018 after having false criminal charges laid against me by my estranged wife. Adrian McKenna did not judge me, showed me respect whist my prior life was betrayed in front of him as me being violet man, one thing I have always prided myself on that I wasn’t. Adrian supported me completely in my decision to plead not guilty to all charges.
From the very beginning, as I was escorted to interview, Adrian was on point only wanting the facts, he was easy to understand and stuck by me through everything and never once made me feel unsupported. He worked closely with my family in getting prepared and assisted in finding me a Family Lawyer to help me navigate and understand the complexity of the charges laid against me and the impact it would have on me and my 5 children.
My hearing took 4 days and Adrian was nothing short of brilliant, myself and family were taken back by his knowledge and preparation into my case that was masterful and clever to keep it simple that the evidence does not lie.
Adrian McKenna is just put simply an amazing Criminal Lawyer that communicates with conviction and passion in the court room. His intellect and ability to show empathy and then uplift the situation with positivity was noted by my family and appreciated so much throughout the hearing.
Throughout the whole ordeal, Adrian reassured me with honesty, very directly kept me on point that Criminal cases are based on evidence and at no point does Family Court have any place in a Criminal matter. Words that were hard to hear, but now I understand.
I also worked with other members of McKenna Taylor and all within the firm were professional and respectful. I strongly recommend Adrian McKenna and McKenna Taylor for your criminal matter. You will be doing yourself a disservice from the beginning if you don’t.
Adrian was so professional with his explanations of what to expect. He was also compassionate and listened to me. I asked so many questions. He looked at me and said “let us do our job”, and “follow his directions”.
The Barrister he engaged to my case was excellent. Over weeks and months, with hearings in between, waiting for the court date and the final hearings I was so nervous and asked too many questions again. Again, “let us do our job”. A confidence boost again from Adrian.
The Barrister asked all the right questions which I wanted him to ask. He and Adrian provided all the facts and statements that were vital to the Magistrates decisions.
We got the best outcome, no convictions.
I thank Adrian and his team for their patience, guidance, advice, and compassion through my heartbreaking ordeal. His advice “let us do our job” was the best advice leading to the best result.
I would highly recommend Adrian at HugoLaw. He gets the job done!
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Carol Younes
Partner — Sydney
ACCREDITED SPECIALIST (Criminal Law)
Carol is an Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law and founding partner of Hugo Law Group. She has been recognised in the Doyles Guide as Market Leader in the Sydney criminal lawyers listing.
Carol appears in the superior and appellate courts in some of the most notorious criminal cases. She works tirelessly on matters representing clients charged with murder, serious sex offences, complex frauds, tax evasions, drug manufacture, supply and importation, and terrorism offences. She also appears in complex hearings, sentence proceedings and bail applications.
She was nominated for Criminal Law Partner of the Year in the 2022 Lawyers Weekly Awards.
Carol recognises the need to always think two steps ahead and to ensure her clients are making the right decisions early on. She is best known for her persuasive advocacy, strategic thinking and determination to win every case. She understands the need to help her clients navigate their way through what is often one of the most challenging times in their life. Her clients feel supported and confident having her on their team.
Helen Christinson
Partner — Sydney
Helen is an experienced advocate who brings compassion, positivity and a sharp legal mind to every matter.
In 2025 Helen was recognised by members of the profession as a Leading Lawyer in the Doyle’s Guide Leading Lawyers Listings for Criminal Lawyers in Sydney. She was also nominated as a New Partner of the Year in the 2024 Lawyer’s Weekly Awards.
Whether appearing in Coronial inquests, bail applications, sentence matters, defended hearings or other applications in the Children’s Court or Local Court, conviction and severity appeals in the District Court, or high-profile trial and sentence matters for State and Commonwealth offences, Helen is a detail-focused, empathetic, energised and tenacious advocate.
Helen ensures her clients understand the nature of their charges, providing them with clear information to help them make informed choices about how to progress their matter. She is known for her succinct and effective advocacy, common-sense approach to analysing evidence and thorough preparation in support of each and every case.
Damien Mahon
Senior Associate — Northern NSW
Damien Mahon
Senior Associate — Northern NSW
Northern NSW
t. (07) 5552 1902
m. 0410 883 533
e. [email protected]
Damien provides representation and advice in all areas of State and Commonwealth criminal law. As a confident and proficient advocate, Damien has demonstrated success acting in a diverse range of matters including murder and offences of violence, terrorism offences, sexual assault, drug offences, fraud and white-collar crime.
Damien has successfully defended a large volume of contested matters. He has a strong understanding of the rules of evidence and subjects all material relied upon by the prosecution to a high level of scrutiny.
In sentence matters, Damien has an aptitude for identifying mitigating factors and extenuating circumstances which are favourable to his clients and promote the need for leniency and rehabilitation in place of punishment.
Damien has a genuine passion for criminal defence law. He provides timely, clear and considered advice and works tenaciously to obtain positive results for his clients.
In 2025, Damien was recognised as a Leading Lawyer in the Doyles Leading Criminal Lawyers list for Regional New South Wales.
Nick Morrow
Lawyer – Northern NSW
Nick Morrow
Lawyer – Northern NSW
Northern NSW
t. (07) 5552 1902
m. 0497 742 128
e. [email protected]
Nick graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Arts at Monash University. He later completed his Practical Legal Training with the College of Law.
Prior to joining Hugo Law Group, Nick gained valuable experience in criminal law with a prominent Victorian Criminal Defence firm. He contributed to matters across a range of proceedings in the Magistrates, Children’s, and County Courts, gaining insights into bail applications, pleas, and contested hearings.
Nick brings to the firm a strong sense of fairness and passion for social justice. He approaches each matter with empathy, and an understanding that criminal proceedings can be a very difficult time for clients and their families. Nick works hard to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients.
Criminal Law Services in Ballina
Hugo Law Group proudly supports the Ballina community with expert criminal defence representation. Our experienced lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and providing personalised, effective defence in all criminal matters.
Criminal law covers a broad range of offences, each requiring a unique approach. Our Ballina criminal lawyers understand the local legal system and are dedicated to building a defence strategy that considers your individual circumstances.
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. At Hugo Law Group Ballina, we are here to support you throughout the entire legal process, from initial charges through court appearances and beyond.
Specialist Criminal Lawyers in Ballina
We recognise that criminal charges carry serious consequences, both immediately and in the long term. From fines and community service orders to imprisonment and a criminal record, the impact can be profound.
Our team provides strategic advice and robust defence for a wide variety of offences including
- Assault
- Dishonesty offences
- Drug offences
- Firearm offences
- Robbery
- Murder and manslaughter
- Perjury
- Property damage offences
- Sexual offences
We are committed to thorough preparation and strong representation to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Our Expertise
What Sets Hugo Law Group Apart in Ballina
Our Ballina criminal lawyers combine local insight with extensive criminal law experience to deliver personalised and effective representation. We prioritise understanding your unique circumstances and developing a defence strategy that suits you.
We maintain clear communication and provide support throughout your case to ensure you are informed and confident in every step.
Choosing Hugo Law Group means partnering with a team dedicated to protecting your rights and your future.
Our legal team can represent anyone from the following and their surrounding suburbs:
- Alstonville
- Bangalow
- Bogangar
- Brunswick Heads
- Byron Bay
- Casino
- Drake
- Evans Head
- Grafton
- Iluka
- Kingscliff
- Kyogle
- Lennox Head
- Lismore
- Maclean
- Mullumbimby
- Murwillumbah
- New Brighton
- Nimbin
- Nymboida
- Ocean Shores
- Pottsville
- Suffolk Park
- Whiporie
- Wollongbar
- Yamba
- Tweed Heads
Criminal Law FAQs
Criminal law is the only area of law where, if the charges are proven, courts can impose imprisonment and other severe penalties that restrict an individual’s freedom.
Criminal law differs from civil law, where breaches generally result in fines or other penalties that do not involve loss of liberty.
Criminal cases are usually initiated by the state—through the police or the Director of Public Prosecutions—against an individual or company. In contrast, civil law typically involves disputes between private parties, which can include individuals, businesses, organisations, or even government entities.
Penalties for drug use and possession vary depending on the specifics of each case. Factors such as the amount of drugs involved, the circumstances of the offence, an individual’s role within a potential drug trafficking hierarchy, and the applicable maximum penalties for offences like trafficking or cultivation all influence the sanctions imposed.
In some cases involving small quantities, individuals may be issued a police caution or warning. However, even possession of small amounts can lead to fines and, in rare situations, imprisonment.