The 6 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Dublin Who Will Advocate for Your Rights!
There’s nothing more terrifying than getting taken to Garda Station, where you’ll be questioned by the Gardaí. When your heart’s in your mouth, you might accidentally say the wrong things, especially if you’re out of your wits, after, let’s say, a driving offence.
And that could worsen your situation, especially when you’re the accused. That’s why you’ll hear lawyers recommend asking for a solicitor, which is within your right, in any case.
Regardless of the offence, it’s any person’s fundamental right to ask for a solicitor. So, here are the best criminal defence lawyers in Dublin, who will defend your rights from the get-go!
How We Chose the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Dublin
1. Danny Nolan Solicitors
Address: 6-9 Trinity St, Dublin, D02 EY47, Ireland
Contact:
- Telephone: 01 617 7924
- Mobile: 087 2531096
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Danny Nolan Solicitors is a trusted sole practitioner firm where you deal directly with Danny Nolan himself, ensuring a personal and straightforward approach from the first call.
With over 20 years experience in the criminal justice system, Danny is known for being approachable, clear in his advice, and highly experienced in handling complex cases. He specialises in serious criminal matters, including murder, sexual offences, rape, and fraud, while also representing clients in more common cases such as drug and road traffic offences.
Danny is specifically trained in Garda station interviews and is available to attend at any time. He strongly advises that you should never attend a Garda station alone, having a solicitor present is your right and can be crucial.
He represents both private clients and those eligible for free legal aid, making quality legal support accessible to all.
Very professional & did not miss a detail
“Absolutely fantastic service from Danny, very professional & did not miss a detail, was always just a phone call away for any questions & very friendly & helpful. I would highly recommend Danny!!”
– Adam Fynes, Google Review
Always available on the phone top class service
“Absolute life saver quite literally done me the world of good great representation always available on the phone top class service thank you Danny and Team😎❤️ …”
– Alex Bridgemab, Google Review
2. Phelim O’Neill – Harringtons LLP
Address: 17-22 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter
Contact: 086 838 6296, +353 (0) 15394747
Hours: 24/7
A highly experienced criminal defence lawyer is essential in serious cases, which is why Phelim O’Neill is on our list. His experience and track record are brilliant, which is what you want on your side.
His expertise lies in heavy crimes, and he has represented clients in Dublin accused of fraud, murder, and sexual offences. In addition, he has a track record of securing favourable outcomes for clients wrongly accused of serious acts.
O’Neill is exactly the kind of lawyer you want on your team, as his experience is extensive. He’s represented clients in all Courts of the Criminal Courts of Justice and crimes worthy of the front page, and that includes private citizens and companies.
Part of his experience includes advising Garda Station interviews, and it’s handy that he’s available in the middle of the night because he’s reachable 24/7. However, you might need an appointment to visit his office, but he does offer phone consultations.
As for the fees, he’s solid if you’re hard up. His office offers fixed rates, as well as free legal aid for Garda Station interviews and criminal defence cases.
Has a deep understanding of all aspects of the law
“Phelim is an absolute gentleman with a deep understanding of all aspects the law. He did rapid and in depth research to the specifics of my case. Getting back to me always within an hour of a text or call at anytime of day or night. Highly recommended for any legal matters.”
-Luke Healy, Google Review
Consistently performed his duties in a professional manner
“I will always be grateful for the work of Phelim and his team. From the outset, he has consistently performed his duties in a professional, honest, sincere, and attentive manner. He promptly addresses any questions and consistently demonstrates a strategic approach to the case that instills great confidence in his work. I highly recommend his services without hesitation.”
-Marcelo Hermann, Google Review
3. Matthew Kenny – O’Sullivan Kenny LLP
Address: Suite 203, The Capel Building, Mary’s Abbey
Contact: +353 (1) 4444 813, [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5 pm
Matthew Kenny is a criminal defence lawyer in Dublin who is a partner and founder of O’Sullivan Kenny LLP. He was previously president of the Dublin Solicitors Bar Association and received a gold medal from the Public Interest Law Association.
To explain him in two words: highly established. He impressed us in many ways, particularly his work at Free Legal Advice Centres in Dublin, which helps a lot of defendants who are strapped for cash.
Most of all, his professionalism is exceptional. It’s one of his best qualities, apart from his solid record of successfully representing clients accused of various crimes, such as public order, theft, and road traffic offences.
For instance, he’s been applauded for his communication skills, as he listens attentively without judgment and advises clients in a calm and effective manner during Garda Station interviews.
It’s just that his office charges a €123 online fee for the initial consult. They’re also closed on weekends, but we’re not irked about it too much because he and his staff are easy to reach.
The best solicitor I have ever met
“Matthew is the best solicitor I have ever meet .From our first meeting, he explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings. If anyone is looking for a good solicitor at a great price, then go to Matthew.”
-Elena Melenciuc, Google Review
A happy outcome thanks to their articulate and most professional approach
“I can say with no doubt that both partners are excellent. On separate occasions they went though my case in a clear professional manner. They went through my options and I followed their advice to the letter. A happy outcome thanks to their articulate and most professional approach. I could not recommend them highly enough. Guys a sincere thank you,”
-Ken Mcconkey, Google Review
4. Roy O’Neill – Fahy Bambury LLP
Address: 153 King St N, Smithfield
Contact: +353 (1) 8745 800, 0876599342
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5:30 pm
It’s safe to say that Roy O’Neill, a partner at Fahy Bambury LLP, is a highly accomplished criminal defence lawyer in Dublin. He focuses on criminal defence, which is exactly what you need if you’re accused of a crime.
He specialises in a wide range of criminal cases, from minor to indictable offences, such as assault, theft, money laundering, and murder. In addition, he’s got loads of experience handling high-profile cases in Ireland.
His firm is closed on weekends, though, which is a bummer for non-emergency cases. But it’s not a massive issue since they have a 24/7 hotline, should you need an emergency solicitor in Dublin.
Plus, his law office goes the extra mile by offering a free 30-minute phone consultation, which isn’t something you normally see in Dublin. Let’s not forget that this option is available six times a week.
As for O’Neill’s approach, we saw no issues. He and his team have been brilliant throughout—professional, honest, and defended his clients all the way.
Handled everything in a good way
“I received a summons 3 months ago.I was extremely tensed and didn’t know what to do.I asked many people about this issue, but no one could give me a clear answer. I went to court to enquire about this issue and met Mr roy, he checked and confirmed that my insurance and license were actually valid.He helped me to sort out this issue in a gentle way.He is such a nice gentleman ,handled everything in a good way and I can definitely recommend to whoever needing help”
-Ligin Joy, Google Review
Highest level of professionalism and care
“Roy treated my case with the highest level of professionalism and care, he went above and beyond to make sure I had a good understanding of the process and was so supportive throughout. He was easily contactable and responsive, I couldn’t have asked him to do anymore and I would recommend Roy to anyone looking for legal representation.”
-Catriona Ryan, Google Review
5. John O’Doherty – KOD Lyons LLP
Address: 31-33, Usher’s Quay
Contact: +353 (1) 679 0780, +35386 085 9800
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5:30 pm
There’s no doubt that John O’Doherty is an experienced Dublin solicitor, given that he became one almost three decades ago. He has a deep understanding of criminal law, to such an extent that he was appointed the head of the firm’s Business Crime Practice.
Furthermore, he specialises in summary and indictable crimes, such as driving offences, assault, and prison law. He’s represented clients in high-profile cases, including individuals and companies.
To top it off, he’s able to represent clients in all criminal courts, as well as advise defendants in Garda Station interviews. O’Doherty is available 24/7 for criminal defence, so we’re not too gutted that his office is closed on weekends for minor appointments.
But since he’s an experienced criminal defence solicitor in Dublin, expect the initial fee to be a wee bit steeper than you’d expect. The quality of service and defence we’ve seen is worth every cent, because his dedication to every case, big or small, is top-notch.
Demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise
“I was referred to Mr. John O’Doherty by a friend who had a similar drink driving case. From the outset, Mr. O’Doherty demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise in handling my case. His reassuring demeanor and extensive knowledge in this legal area greatly alleviated my anxiety. Thanks to his diligent efforts and skillful representation, I was ultimately cleared of all charges. I am convinced that without his expertise, the outcome could have been significantly different. I express my sincere gratitude to Mr. O’Doherty and his entire firm for their invaluable assistance throughout the legal process.”
-vincent kavanagh, Google Review
Always responded promptly and kept me updated at every stage
“had a very positive experience with KOD Solicitors. From the first consultation, they demonstrated professionalism and a strong understanding of the legal issues involved. Communication was excellent—they always responded promptly and kept me updated at every stage. They took the time to explain complex matters in simple terms, which gave me confidence and peace of mind. I’m grateful for their hard work and would gladly use their services again in the future.”
-Donna Marie Maughan, Google Review
6. Brian Keenan – Keenan & Co. Solicitors
Address: 8 St Agnes Rd, Crumlin
Contact: +353 (1) 563 4676, [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5:30 pm
Should we ever require assistance from an experienced criminal defence solicitor in Dublin, you’d find Brian Keenan on our list. He focuses on criminal defence and personal injury litigation at Keenan & Co. Solicitors, where he’s a managing partner.
You’ll see him at court, basically every day, representing clients accused of an array of crimes, such as theft, public order, and assault. In addition, he and his team are open to assistance during Garda Station interviews.
Most importantly—and what truly caught our attention—Keenan has plenty of knowledge and expertise in children’s court. Juvenile justice is one of his main interests, and he’s frequently available for Garda Station assistance for minors.
Impressively, his firm has completed the Garda Station Solicitor Training, giving him (and his team) a deep understanding of procedures. His clients even noted his ability to navigate the complexities of the Irish legal system.
The only hiccup is that his firm is closed on weekends. But clients noted his quick responses, anyhow, so this isn’t a massive disadvantage.
Professional, reassuring, and incredibly thorough
“I had a recent legal matter and was dealing with Brian and Mary. I couldn’t have asked for better support. They were professional, reassuring, and incredibly thorough throughout the entire process. I was kept informed at every stage and made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. Thanks to their hard work and expertise, my case worked out in my favour. I’m truly grateful for everything. Highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for dedicated and knowledgeable solicitors!”
-Kevin Oyewole, Google Review
I couldn’t be more pleased with the service
“I had a court case today and was represented by Keenan & Company Solicitors LLP — I couldn’t be more pleased with the service I received. Brian, in particular, was incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the entire process. He was professional, thorough, and really fought my case with determination and skill. Thanks to his efforts, I felt confident and well-represented in court. I highly recommend Keenan & Company to anyone looking for strong legal representation and genuine care from their solicitor. Thank you again, Brian and the team!”
-Calvin Watson, Google Review