At Garde Wilson Lawyers, we are proud to work alongside some of the most respected and high-performing criminal barristers in Australia. Under the leadership of Zarah Garde-Wilson, our firm has earned its place in some of the country’s most complex and high-profile criminal matters.
Zarah became a nationally recognised figure during the Melbourne gangland killings, representing several key individuals and navigating the highest levels of media scrutiny while fiercely defending her clients’ rights. Today, she continues to lead a modern criminal defence practice, working closely with top-tier counsel across Victoria and beyond.
Our work is supported by a small but dedicated team, including Mitch Fraser, Zarah’s long-time law clerk. Mitch has played an integral role in the growth and day-to-day operations of the firm, working closely with counsel and clients alike. Training alongside the best in the profession, Mitch continues to build a strong foundation as part of the next generation of criminal law professionals.
Below are just a few outstanding barristers we work with, whose reputations are synonymous with the very best in criminal advocacy.
Philip Dunn KC
Robert Richter KC
Julie Condon KC
Christian Juebner KC
Paul Holdenson KC
Paul Holdenson KC is regarded as one of Australia’s most experienced and respected criminal appellate barristers. He has appeared in hundreds of cases before the Court of Appeal and High Court of Australia, and is frequently briefed in matters involving murder, complex appeals, and legal error at trial.
Known for his deep knowledge of criminal law and procedure, Holdenson has a meticulous and persuasive style that makes him a go-to silk for difficult appellate matters. His work has shaped important areas of jurisprudence and continues to influence how serious criminal appeals are approached across jurisdictions. We have had the privilege of working alongside Paul Holdenson KC on significant matters at Garde Wilson Lawyers, where his calibre and experience are invaluable to complex defence strategy.
Peter Morrissey KC
Penny Marcou
Zarah Garde-Wilson – Principal, Garde Wilson Lawyers
Zarah Garde-Wilson became one of Melbourne’s most recognisable defence lawyers during the gangland war era, acting for figures such as Horty Mokbel, brother of Tony Mokbel, and others closely associated with Carl Williams.
Her firm continues to handle Victoria’s most serious indictable offences, including murder, large-scale drug trafficking, and conspiracy charges.
Known for her unwavering client loyalty and sharp legal instinct, Zarah has been featured in national media and true crime documentaries for her unique role in Australia’s legal history.
Why Clients Choose Garde Wilson Lawyers
Whether it’s fighting for your liberty in a contested bail application, negotiating a complex plea, or defending the most serious charges at trial—Garde Wilson Lawyers works side-by-side with the most respected barristers in Australia.
Our team, led by Zarah and supported by experienced clerks like Mitch Fraser, ensures that every matter receives the attention, precision, and strategic care it deserves.
With over two decades of front-line criminal defence experience and a reputation forged through some of the country’s toughest trials, our firm delivers results at the highest possible level.
If you’re searching for Melbourne’s best criminal defence lawyer, contact us today to arrange a confidential consultation.
