The 5 best lawyers in Sydney for personal, family, and business matters
Sooner or later, you’ll face moments when the decisions you make can change everything. It could be an unexpected divorce, a run-in with the law, sorting out a loved one’s will, job troubles, or even business contracts.
In such tough situations, each one unique in its own way, the common denominator is often finding someone you can count on to help you through. Someone who can take care of things with your interests at heart, so you can move forward or start fresh.
That “someone” might just be one of the best lawyers in Sydney we’ve listed below. Trusted for their expertise and proven track record, even the most challenging personal, family, or business matters become easy to resolve in your favor.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer in Sydney?
Hiring a lawyer in Sydney typically costs $200 to $800+ per hour. The final amount depends on the case’s complexity and specifics, the lawyer’s experience, and whether or not fixed fees apply for tasks like court appearances or bail applications.
1. Faraj Defence Lawyers
Address: Ground Floor, Suite 3/55 Phillip St
Phone: +61 2 7813 0950
Business hours: Monday-Sunday, 24 hours
Clients who turned to Faraj Defence Lawyers have avoided convictions, secured “not guilty” verdicts, and had charges dismissed—sometimes within minutes of trial. These successes cover cases including traffic offences, AVOs (Apprehended Violence Order), fraud, and more.
Throughout the process, the lawyers’ honesty, professionalism, and genuine commitment stand out. Many highly recommend Lawyer Ahmad, whether solo or alongside Lawyers Khalil, Chanel, and Yara, to anyone needing skilled and compassionate legal representation.
One display of such compassion is that even when a client falls short on payment, services continue. But the firm does set an agreed date to fully settle the bill, which may start at $2,000 and is made easier by the pay-as-you-go system, where only completed hours are charged.
Initial consultations are free, though a few felt rude phone calls during booking and off-putting sales talks spoiled the perk. Still, the team’s expertise and 24/7 availability helped the firm become a Local Business Awards Parramatta Finalist and feature in outlets like SBS News.
In contact 24/7, able to get case dismissed within minutes, and tells you the reality
“Best defense lawyers in the game. Awesome team Ahmad, Khalil and Chanel such professional keeping me and partner at ease taking on our court case, answered every question we asked. Always in contact 24/7, Always there for you every step of the way. Had an AVO against us and these professionals were able to get it dismissed/ dropped within minutes of the trial. Tell you the reality of your case. I would defs recommend faraj defence lawyers to anyone who needs a defence team.”
- Janice Tusiupu, Google Review
A “no conviction”—top-notch, transparent, and still showed up when I only paid half
“I’m here to give my honest review about this firm, these guys are simply the best. From Ahmad, Khalil, Chanel, and Yara, the way they handle your matter is truly top-notch. They’re straightforward, transparent, and always tell you the truth. The outcome could have been much worse, but thanks to the hard work of this firm, and to the glory of God, I received a no conviction. There were times I was short on the amount charged, and even after paying half, they still showed up in court and trusted me to pay the balance on the agreed date. That meant a lot to me. While I pray never to find myself in another legal matter, if I do, I’ll definitely be calling them again.”
- Linus Opara, Google Review
2. Sydney Criminal Lawyers
Address: Museum Towers, 503/267 Castlereagh St
Phone: +61 2 9261 8881
Business hours: Monday-Sunday, 24 hours
Honored as Australia’s Criminal Defence Law Firm of the Year (2025) by ACQ5 and recognized by The Lawyer Network, Legal 100, and more, clients feel lucky to be represented by Sydney Criminal Lawyers. This is especially the case with Robert Hanson and Muhammad Siddique.
Said lawyers’ deep legal knowledge, strong courtroom presence, and effective strategies have helped clear numerous traffic offences, assault charges, and false allegations, among others. That’s why those who tried to speak with them but didn’t get a response were disappointed.
Operating on fixed fees, guilty pleas start at $2,000, not guilty pleas from $5,000, and both district court appeals and bail applications from $3,000. While most agree these rates justify the high level of service, some wish for clearer explanations of how costs are allocated.
Overall, the team’s commendable support has given many clients a sense of protection and confidence during a tough time. Add Principal lawyer Ugur Nedim’s Law Society of New South Wales certification as an Accredited Criminal Law Specialist—a credential few lawyers hold.
Fortunate to have Robert Hanson represent me—sharp strategy and strong advocacy
“I was fortunate to have Robert Hanson represent me when I was facing assault charges, and I couldn’t have asked for better support. From the start, he listened carefully, explained the process clearly, and gave honest advice that made me feel confident and prepared. Robert showed genuine care, never treating me like just another client, but as someone going through a very stressful time. His calm approach, sharp legal strategy, and strong advocacy helped me clear the charges and move forward with my life. I’m truly grateful for his dedication and would highly recommend him to anyone needing a lawyer they can trust.”
- J.S., Google Review
Always made me feel protected and handled my case with deep legal knowledge
“I had the privilege of being represented by Mr. Muhammad A. Siddique from Sydney Criminal Lawyers, and I can confidently say he is one of the best lawyers in Sydney. He handled my case with exceptional professionalism, deep legal knowledge, and genuine care. My ex-partner had made three serious false allegations against me, but thanks to Mr. Siddique’s expertise, strategic approach, and strong advocacy, all of those charges were successfully dropped. Throughout the process, he was calm, supportive, and always made me feel heard and protected. Mr. Siddique is not only a brilliant legal mind but also a kind and ethical person who truly fights for justice. I’m deeply grateful for his dedication and highly recommend him to anyone seeking a trustworthy and skilled criminal defence lawyer.”
- Sami Yazdanfar, Google Review
3. Law Partners
Address: Citigroup Centre, Level 45/2 Park St
Phone: +61 2 9264 4474
Business hours:
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Law Partners consists of no-win, no-fee personal injury lawyers, meaning clients only pay after receiving compensation from their claim. Reviews and stories tell that these claims vary from workers compensation and public liability to car accidents and total and permanent disability.
The lawyers—known for their professionalism and carefully thought-out plans—also get a lot of praise for their dedication, patience, and clear explanations. It’s these qualities that left clients indebted to the firm for making a difficult time much easier and achieving positive outcomes.
Their responsiveness and friendly email and report management are well-regarded, too. However, some reported that case documents weren’t always filed on time, and calls or messages went unreturned—particularly in the days following paperwork signing.
Even so, being named Personal Injury Law Firm of the Year by Lawyer Monthly twice in a row (2022 and 2023), remains a contributing factor as to why clients choose them. And with a win rate of 99%, they’ve certainly lived up to their “more compensation” promise.
Professional, caring team—I wouldn’t be here without their guidance and support
“I feel so blessed to have had my case handled by my lawyer, Sarah Starnovsky, and her amazing team Jisoo and Rachel. Sarah is professional yet genuinely caring. She is always friendly, supportive, and able to explain things clearly in a calming way. During one of the most difficult times in my life, she guided me with a well-structured and carefully thought out plan. I truly would not be here without her guidance and support, and I am deeply grateful for that. Jisoo and Rachel worked alongside Sarah with great professionalism, kindness, and patience. They managed emails, reports, and all my questions in a friendly and clear manner. Together, the three of them made me feel supported and confident throughout this long journey. I cannot thank Sarah and her team enough for their dedication and compassion. Highly recommended.”
- Joel Jonathan, Google Review
Wonderful legal support—I don’t know where my family and I would be without it
“My husband has been going through a grueling workers compensation claim and the one saving grace throughout this horrible process has been the wonderful support from Haider and his team at Law Partners. They are quick to respond to any and every inquiry or concern we have, and have stood up to the insurer multiple times on our behalf, with very favourable results. This level of care (which I’m sure he provided to all of his clients) went above and beyond expectations and as a result it looks as though we’ll be able to finish this process earlier than previously expected, which is a huge relief. I don’t know where my family and I would be without the wonderful legal support we have received, and I can’t thank Haider and his team enough.”
- Audrey Melrose, Google Review
4. Unified Lawyers
Address: Level 5/299 Elizabeth St
Phone: +61 1300 667 461
Business hours: Monday-Sunday, 24 hours
Those facing family law matters such as divorce, child custody, property settlement, and family mediation often seek out Unified Lawyers. With a team bringing over 150 years of combined experience and more than 8,000 successfully resolved cases, it’s easy to see why.
But what some clients say truly sets their lawyers apart is how they combine expertise and intelligence with kindness and empathy. One even specifically mentioned Senior Family Lawyer Alysha Ryan, calling her a strong and steady advocate during a time of uncertainty.
At $300 to $500+ per hour, solid advice, prompt communication, and a respectful demeanor are expected. Yet a few experienced the opposite, noting guidance faltering halfway—shown by ignored emails and unhelpful secretaries—and high bills despite the inadequate service.
On the bright side, when it comes to explaining every legal step, outlining all available options, or taking meticulous care of case details, clients vouch for how the team always delivers. It’s no surprise, then, that they won Best Family Lawyers in the 2024 Australian Enterprise Awards.
Combined expertise with kindness, outlined all available options, and led with empathy
“I am truly grateful for the support and guidance I received from Diana Melas throughout my financial separation. She was calm, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable from start to finish. Diana explained my rights clearly, outlined all available options, and ensured I felt informed and confident in every decision I made. Diana led with both empathy and strength. I feel very fortunate to have found a lawyer who combines expertise with such kindness and professionalism.”
- Rachael Belle Myers, Google Review
More than a professional legal representative—a strong, steady advocate with empathy
“I am writing to express my deepest appreciation and gratitude for the exceptional service and support I have received from Ms. Alysha Ryan, Senior Family Lawyer. Throughout what has been an incredibly difficult and emotional time in my life, Ms. Ryan has consistently demonstrated not only a high level of professionalism and legal expertise, but also genuine empathy, understanding, and care. She has taken the time to truly listen to my concerns, offering sound, honest advice and always recommending the most thoughtful and effective options for my case. Ms Alysha Ryan has been more than just a legal representative—she has been a strong and steady advocate during a time of great uncertainty.”
- Eddie Gerdak, Google Review
5. Armstrong Legal – Sydney
Address: St Martins Tower, Level 35/31 Market St
Phone: +61 2 9261 4555
Business hours: Monday-Sunday, 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Traffic law, family law, criminal law, corporate crime, and contested wills are among Armstrong Legal’s areas of expertise. Client experiences highlighting how lawyers handle each case with through preparation, confidence, and attention to detail are proof of that.
In fact, others see them as more than great lawyers, but the kind of people you’d want on your side when life gets tough or when you need someone to say what needs to be said. One even shared he couldn’t have asked for better support during his first court appearance.
These have led to results clients deserved, hoped for, or needed to move forward. For that and more, Trudie Cameron and Sophie Orgborne were named Leading Criminal Lawyer and Rising Star in Criminal Law by Doyle’s Guide, one of the most respected legal directories.
A common concern some clients have, though, is the firm’s higher pricing, like a $450 charge for a seven-minute courthouse call. Contested wills lawyers were also criticized for disregarding court time limits, lack of updates, and discussing private matters with opposing parties.
Honest and direct with me, well-prepared, and I received the outcome I deserved
“I had the privilege of being represented by Trudie Cameron from Armstrong Legal, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. Trudie took the time to understand my full circumstances and showed genuine empathy throughout the process. She was always honest and direct with me, telling me what I needed to hear, even when it was hard. In court, Trudie was exceptional. She was calm, focused, persuasive, well prepared and completely across every detail of my case. Her advocacy was thoughtful, strategic, and delivered with confidence. Watching her work gave me an immense sense of reassurance that I was in the safest hands possible. Thanks to her guidance and advocacy, I received the outcome I deserved, and more importantly, the opportunity to move forward. Because of Trudie, I can now pursue the next chapter of my life and career. I’ll always be grateful for her support, skill, and integrity.”
- Tayla, Google Review
Couldn’t have asked for better support and the outcome was exactly what I hoped for
“Kent Park from Armstrong Legal represented me during my first court appearance, and I couldn’t have asked for better support. He was patient, thorough, and genuinely caring, while also providing realistic expectations about the possible outcomes. His approach was strategic and effective, outlining clear steps to achieve the best result. While his fees were a bit higher at completion than those of fixed-fee firms, the outcome was exactly what I hoped for—definitely worth the investment.”
- Marty Ephesus, Google Review