Your Criminal Defence Team

Carol is an Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law and founding partner of Hugo Law Group. She has been consistently recognised in the Doyles Guide as one of Australia’s preeminent criminal lawyers.

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.

Adrian has worked exclusively in private practice in criminal law through his legal career. With more than a decade of experience he is a renowned expert in the field. Clients have sought out Adrian’s experience and specialised skills for some of Canberra’s most high profile and complex murder, fraud and sexual assault matters. He is a founding partner of Hugo Law Group. 

Adrian was previously an Associate to a judge of the ACT Supreme Court and worked on the defence team of Radovan Karadzic, President of the Former Bosnian-Serb Republic, at the Yugoslavia International War Crimes Tribunal. 

Adrian has been recognised as a preeminent lawyer in the Doyle’s Guide for Canberra Criminal Defence Lawyers. He is an Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law, a member of the ACT Law Society’s Criminal Law Committee and a regular commentator on legal reform issues. He is entrusted with representing clients facing charges amongst the most serious in the criminal calendar.

Karen Espiner is a NSW Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law and founding partner at Hugo Law Group. She was named Criminal Law Partner of the Year in the 2020 Lawyers Weekly Awards.

Since 2016 she has been consistently recognised by other lawyers in the Doyle’s Guide as one of the best criminal lawyers in both Sydney and Australia. In 2023 she moved to WA to lead the opening of the Perth office.

Much of Karen’s practice is devoted to representing clients who have been charged with serious criminal offences including murder, sexual assault, drug supply/manufacture, serious assaults and money laundering. She appears in other jurisdictions including the WA Corruption and Crime Commission and State Administrative Tribunal for clients whose professional reputations are at risk. She also has a significant appellate practice, providing advice and representation to clients seeking to appeal their conviction and/or sentence to the Court of Appeal (WA) or Court of Criminal Appeal (NSW).

Recognising the value of professional collaboration and teamwork, she works closely with other lawyers in the firm to ensure her clients receive the highest level of service. Known for her meticulous preparation and persuasive advocacy, she is well respected by other lawyers, barristers and Judges.

Tom is widely regarded as one of the most talented and successful criminal defence lawyers in Canberra and the surrounding regions. He has earnt the respect of clients, lawyers and judges through years of dedicated practice to this niche area of the law. 

With years of experience in criminal defence firms in Sydney and country NSW and through his time in the Australian Army he knows the right time to bring an aggressive approach. He has a reputation for winning the unwinnable matters and is the unquestionable lawyer of choice for clients facing a serious matter.  

Tom has a unique talent in making real connections with his clients and earning their trust. He has an impressive combination of street smarts and a fighting spirit that makes him the perfect fit for hearings and trials.

Before joining the legal profession he worked in sports management and as a professional lifeguard in Australia and Japan. Tom has been repeatedly voted as a preeminent lawyer in the Doyle’s Guide for Canberra Criminal Defence Lawyers. In 2024 he was named Criminal Law Partner of the Year in the 2024 Lawyer’s Weekly Awards.

Helen is an experienced advocate who brings compassion, positivity and a sharp legal mind to every matter.

In 2024 Helen was recognised by members of the profession as a Recommended 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 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 2024, Damien was included in the Doyles Leading Criminal Lawyers list for Regional New South Wales.

Rachel started her career in criminal law as an Associate to Magistrate Louise Taylor (now Justice Taylor) prior to transitioning into practice exclusively in criminal defence law. She has appeared in many complex and high-profile matters.

She is an experienced solicitor with extensive work in charges of family violence, sexual assault, dishonesty offences and drug related matters. Rachel brings with her experience from the Aboriginal Legal Service, Attorney-General’s Department and as a Sessional Academic in Evidence Law with the University of Canberra.

In 2024, Rachel was recognised by members of the profession as a Criminal Law Rising Star in the 2024 Doyles Guide – ACT & NSW. She has built a reputation in Canberra as an exceptional advocate in court, and trusted lawyer for her many clients over the years.

Jordan has a successful history of defending clients charged with a wide range of serious criminal offences. He appears in all criminal jurisdictions in NSW.

Jordan believes that everyone deserves for their voice to be heard and is passionate about hearing his clients’ side of the story.

With Jordan, you can expect a lawyer who will prioritise your case, up to date with all current laws, be accommodating to your stresses, and be present with you every step of the way, from the initial charge phase to the resolution of your case. Jordan takes great pride in his role as a criminal defence lawyer, which is reflected in being awarded a Doyle’s Guide Rising Star in the legal profession

Lindsay understands how daunting it is to be charged with a criminal offence and takes pride in guiding her clients through the process using an empathetic and diligent approach. She provides clear and tailored advice to ensure her clients understand their options and achieve fair and just results.

Lindsay appears regularly in NSW Courts, advocating for her clients in a range of matters including release applications, sentences, defended hearings and applications for Apprehended Violence Orders. She is focused and attentive, working with her clients to ensure the Court understands their circumstances, and the unique aspects of their case. If your matter is complex, Lindsay will engage a leading criminal barrister to ensure you are properly defended.

In 2023 Lindsay’s success as a criminal defence lawyer was recognised with her nomination as a Finalist in the Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards in Criminal Law. In 2024 she was recognised as a rising star in the Doyles Guide rankings for criminal law in NSW.

Prior to joining Hugo Law Group, Lindsay completed an associateship in the District Court and worked in commercial litigation.

Elleni has a deep understanding of criminal law and procedure, advocacy and strategy through exposure to a wide range of criminal matters. She has practiced exclusively as a criminal defence lawyer in her legal career. She has worked in a number of high-profile and complex matters, including murder and sexual assault.

Elleni regularly appears in all jurisdictions across NSW in applications, hearings, sentences, trials and appeals. She also has interstate experience in Queensland.

Achieving the best outcome for our clients is Elleni’s paramount concern. As a passionate and persuasive advocate, scrutinising and challenging the merits of the prosecution’s brief of evidence is one of her favourite parts of the job. When required in complex matters, Elleni effectively works alongside barristers to achieve successful outcomes for our clients.

Elleni will navigate you through what can be a daunting legal process with expertise, empathy and an unwavering dedication to defending your rights.

Max’s legal career began as an advice worker in the community legal sector. It was in this role that he developed a passion for ensuring that the rights and interests of his clients were properly protected.

Before joining Hugo Law Group Max’s experience in criminal law began in his role as an Associate to a judge of the ACT Supreme Court. Working in that role for 18 months, he has a detailed insight into court process and advocacy. He holds a Juris Doctor at the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Health Science. This gives him the edge in complex criminal matters involving medical evidence.

Max has a keen eye for detail, meticulous research skills, and a paramount focus on achieving the best possible outcome in court. As an advocate he dedicates his practice to ensuring each of his matters is dealt with fairly and impartially.

Isha is a determined and strategic advocate who is committed to achieving the best outcome for her clients. She understands the importance of advancing your matter with tenacity, sensitivity and compassion. She is highly approachable and takes the time to explain the legal process clearly and comprehensively.

Isha has a wide range of experience in criminal law and has appeared in the NSW Local, District and Supreme Court in bail applications, sentences, appeals and defended hearings. She has also instructed counsel in high-profile and complex trials.

Prior to joining Hugo Law Group, Isha worked as a prosecutor at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and as a defence solicitor at Legal Aid. This places her in a unique position to critically analyse the strengths of a case from both perspectives.

Isha has also worked as a Judge’s Associate in the District Court and has completed a Master of Law (Criminal Practice) with Distinction from the University of Wollongong.

Joshua is an empathetic lawyer who is passionate about defending his clients’ interests. With his wealth of experience and diverse skills, Joshua helps his clients navigate the justice system and achieve the best possible outcome. He is a confident advocate and regularly appears in Local, District and Supreme Courts in a range of matters.

Joshua understands the stress of being charged with a criminal offence. He provides clear advice and ensures his clients understand their options. He brings integrity, compassion and legal acumen to his matters.

Before joining Hugo Law Group, Joshua was a Senior Federal Prosecutor at the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. In his time as a prosecutor, Joshua prosecuted complex multi-accused matters involving offences such as terrorism, large-scale drug importations and money laundering by international criminal syndicates. Prior to this, Joshua was a Senior Lawyer at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, where he investigated corporate misconduct and provided strategic legal advice. He also has experience in mental health and drug and alcohol policy, and worked as a case manager at the Department of Communities and Justice, where he participated in the inner workings of the NSW probation and parole system.

Mitchell’s journey began as a police officer, where he sharpened his investigative skills and built his experience in taking a meticulous approach to cases.

This foundation forms the bedrock of his legal career, allowing him a unique insight in understanding law enforcement and, in particular, where weaknesses or issues may arise in evidence.

Mitchell also has experience as a prosecutor, working in a number of high-profile and complex matters, and has an academic background that includes psychology. He is able to take an empathetic approach to his clients and understand their perspective.

No matter how serious or complex the matter, Mitchell rigorously advocates for his client’s rights and interests.

With a comprehensive knowledge of criminal law, Vanessa has represented clients in a variety of matters, including larceny, sexual offences, driving offences, and drug offences.

Before joining the Canberra office, Vanessa practiced extensively across New South Wales, appearing in hearings, sentences, trials, and appeals in the Local and District Court.

Vanessa is committed to ensuring her clients feel heard, informed, and confident about their cases. She takes pride in guiding them through their legal options with unwavering support and expert advice. A passionate and dedicated advocate, Vanessa thrives on scrutinising prosecution evidence and cross-examining witnesses, always striving to achieve the best outcomes for her clients. Vanessa looks forward to assisting clients in the Canberra region with her experienced, client-focused approach.

Callum’s enthusiasm for the law is fuelled by a desire to protect and defend the rights of each of his clients.

Before joining Hugo Law Group, Callum graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from Curtin University. He then worked as an Associate to a District Court Judge. In that role he developed a comprehensive understanding of a wide range of criminal matters and gained valuable insights into court processes and procedures. After finishing his tenure at the District Court, Callum worked as a Lawyer in one of Perth’s most well-regarded private criminal law firms, Seamus Rafferty + Associates. In that role Callum regularly appeared in the Magistrates Court and District Court, managing a busy workload, and further developing his advocacy skills.

As well as being an approachable and persuasive advocate, one of Callum’s main strengths lies in his ability to analyse complex problems and develop a clear and concise case strategy. Callum appears in a range of matters in the Magistrates Court and District Court including serious offences, sentencings, bail applications and traffic matters.

With studies in both criminology and criminal law Thomas has a deep understanding of what makes people tick in this industry. 

He has legal experience that covers a wide variety of criminal and protection matters and so he knows what is important when it comes to your case. He has many years’ management experience in the hospitality industry and his calming presence is a valuable asset to Hugo Law Group. Graduating with a Bachelor of Laws with Honours from the Australian National University and completing his Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice with the College of Law, Tom has the knowledge and drive necessary to get you the best result possible.

Jack joins Hugo after a near decade experience in the law enforcement sector. He has operated and led response teams in high risk and critical situations and is renowned and respected for his disciplined and calm approach. Most recently, Jack was employed at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (WA) where he supported prosecutors in serious and complex criminal matters, consolidating his knowledge and expertise in Criminal Procedure and Practice.

Experiencing first-hand the injustices people who have been charged with a criminal offence face, Jack’s approach as a criminal defence lawyer is compassionate, methodical and results driven. He understands how challenging and stressful it is to navigate the criminal justice system and uses his previous experiences to provide positive outcomes for his clients.

His strengths in leadership, analysis and his calmness under pressure makes him critical to your success. No matter the situation or trouble you are facing, you can feel confident that Jack will work tirelessly to defend your rights and get you the best possible result.

Angus brings a wealth of practical experience to Hugo Law Group, having worked as a senior law clerk where he advocated for clients in personal injury cases. His ability to navigate complex legal issues with empathy and precision equips him to effectively defend clients in criminal matters.

Known for his adaptability, attention to detail, and strategic thinking, Angus excels in high-pressure situations, working tirelessly to secure positive outcomes. His passion for criminal law drives his commitment to protecting the rights of individuals, and he consistently applies a meticulous and methodical approach to case preparation and courtroom advocacy.

Combined with his unwavering commitment to every case, Angus’ thorough approach to legal strategy, makes him a trusted advocate who always has his clients’ best interests at heart.

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.