The 5 best criminal defence lawyers in Manchester for minor to serious charges
No one in Manchester really thinks about getting a criminal defence lawyer. Until one of those days starts – there’s a call from the police or a letter through the door.
The next thing you know, you’re working out what your rights are and who you can actually trust.
We understand how difficult that situation can be. That’s why our team took a proper look at law firms with stellar experiences in criminal defence cases.
We reviewed key criteria, spoke to representatives, and got one-on-one with past clients. The data and insights we gathered helped us find Manchester’s most trustworthy criminal defence lawyers for moments when it really counts.
How much do criminal defence lawyers charge in Manchester?
The cost of criminal defence lawyer fees in Manchester ranges from £150 to £450 per hour. On average, private fees range from £1,000 to £3,000 for Magistrates’ Courts cases. Complex or contested cases can exceed £10,000.
1. Olliers Solicitors
Location: Fourth Floor, 44 Peter St, Manchester M2 5GP
Contact: +44 161 834 1515
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Olliers Solicitors provides specialist criminal defence services exclusively. They cover cases such as serious crime, sexual offences, fraud, and regulatory matters.
We liked that they have strong pre-charge expertise. They proactively engage with police and the CPS to prevent charges.
In fact, they have multiple documented cases concluding with no further action before reaching court.
Multiple clients also credit Olliers for acquittals, discontinued cases, and lifted restrictions.
Clients consistently reported outstanding attention to detail. According to the majority of the responses, solicitors meticulously analyse pieces of evidence like expert reports and forensic materials.
We also appreciate the transparent fee discussions upfront. Costs are agreed upon before proceeding. Plus, they give honest advice about prospects of success early on.
That said, we did hear a few complaints of poor and unprofessional staff behaviour. A few clients couldn’t get a callback prior to court dates; others had trouble setting an initial appointment.
Demonstrated expertise
“Sonia was amazing throughout the whole process and achieved what we set out to do. She was professional, super responsive and helpful. She kept me up to date with the process and demonstrated her expertise. After getting the result we wanted I had a follow up query 8 months later with which she demonstrated the same care and attention. I would highly recommend Olliers and Sonia. Keep up the great work!”
Mo | Google Review
Incredibly professional, clear, and supportive
“I had an outstanding experience with Connor Brylczak and the team at Olliers Solicitors. Connor was incredibly professional, clear, and supportive throughout what was a very stressful process. He guided me through every stage with calm assurance, was always quick to respond, and handled communication with the court and police firmly and effectively. I always felt I was in safe hands. I’m hugely grateful to Connor and the Olliers team — I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.”
Adam | Google Review
2. Burton Copeland Solicitors
Location: Unit A, Madison Place, Northampton Rd, Manchester M40 5AG
Contact: +44 161 827 9500
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Burton Copeland offers comprehensive criminal defence services. They cover police station representation, Magistrates’ Court cases, and pre-charge investigations.
Experience is also solid, with over 35 years of experience handling minor offences and complex cases.
What we liked most about their approach is their consistently high-quality case preparation. This includes meticulous handling of paperwork, detailed evidence review, and strategic legal submissions.
Clear and consistent communication also stood out. They guide clients at every stage during investigations and court proceedings.
Clients also say they’ve been walked through legal options properly, which helped reduce their stress and uncertainty.
We also liked their transparent discussions around costs. Multiple clients confirmed to us that they were kept informed of fees at every step. This allowed them to remain conscious of the costs all throughout.
We only have a few concerns, particularly with customer service. There were instances of poor staff attitude during phone inquiries and a lack of confirmation whether they’ll take cases in.
Great performance
“Gwyn really has your best interest when conducting his work. Everything was explained and he set out the different processes I could take. Such a great performance in-front of the magistrates. Much appreciated!”
Finn Waugh | Google Review
Excellent professional service and support
“Thank you to Burton Copeland Solicitors and to Gwyn Lewis in particular for the excellent professional service while representing me in a traffic matter. I am grateful for all the support I received. Gwyn took time to thoroughly prepare for the case and I’m extremely pleased for the favourable outcome. I would highly recommend Burton Copeland Solicitors to anyone requiring top-notch legal representation.”
Edwin M | Google Review
3. Ruane DUI & Criminal Defence Attorneys
Location: 419 Center St, Manchester, CT 06040
Contact: +1 860 378 8500
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Ruane handles a wide range of criminal defence cases. Some of these include misdemeanours like DUI, as well as serious felony charges like drug offences and violent crimes.
They consistently deliver solid outcomes. Many clients reported dismissed charges, reduced penalties, and avoided court appearances.
There were multiple instances of successful pardons too, which clients often say is life-changing.
Courtroom readiness is one of their greatest strengths. Their lawyers have a solid strategy when it comes to police procedures, filing motions, and negotiating plea deals.
Beyond the strategy, we also praise the emotional reassurance they provide to clients. Most of the stories we heard involved clients who felt calm and less anxious about the proceedings.
We also appreciate the generally reasonable fee structures. Multiple clients noted fair rates, one-time fees without surprise charges, and flexibility during the retainer process.
There were just a few complaints from clients who felt that they were charged more than expected. It’s important to note, however, that rates would vary per lawyer. The level of representation involved would also affect the fees.
Extremely courteous and intelligent
“Amazing organization! Everyone I worked with was extremely courteous, supportive, intelligent and super professional. Their Attorneys are top notch, as are their extended staff. Attorney Tarasidis is awesome! Absolutely recommend.”
Elio Parente | Google Review
Responsive and polite
“I was represented by Attorney Tarasidis and would recommend him if asked. Ruane Attorneys at Law, LLC supported Attorney Tarasidis with responsive & polite administrative and paralegal professionals.”
Nicholas Saucier | Google Review
4. Mary Monson Solicitors
Location: Suite 318, 125 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2LH
Contact: +44 161 394 0402
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Mary Monson delivers specialist criminal defence representation. They cover serious criminal offences, sexual allegations, and financial crime.
Their history shows extensive experience in handling high-stakes cases. They’ve handled cases of murder, terrorism-related matters, and organised crime over the years.
Despite the complexity of cases, the quality of their legal work remains outstanding.
They proactively investigate cases, identifying weaknesses in police evidence to avoid custodial sentences. The team adopts a strong pre-charge and early-intervention approach, saving their clients from life-altering charges.
Their communication standards also met our expectations. Emails are answered promptly, with updates consistently provided throughout investigations.
Clients also highlighted their strong courtroom advocacy, especially with cases involving children.
We also appreciate their structured pricing. The firm offers fixed-fee arrangements and instalment plans, so clients can ease the financial burden as the proceedings move forward.
As with most firms, not every case can be won – maintaining realistic expectations is advised. Availability for senior solicitors may also be limited.
Great listener and felt very safe
“We had to instruct a solicitor to help my child who had been maliciously implicated in an alleged offence. I spoke to Zahra and she has been absolutely fantastic from day 1. She listened to me and made me feel as though we were in very safe hands. No email was left unanswered and I cannot recommend Mary Monson or Zahra enough.”
Charity Sherratt | Google Review
Direct and assertive help
“Great service from start to finish. Met with Kelley who was direct and assertive helping from minute one and worked with Matthew Walsh on my case who was a great help throughout and very reassuring. Thoroughly recommended.”
Jordan Oldfield | Google Review
5. Platts Solicitors
Location: 149-151 Dickenson Rd, Rusholme, Manchester M14 5HZ
Contact: +44 161 224 2555
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Platts Solicitors offers comprehensive criminal defence representation. The firm has strong frontline police-station expertise, with solicitors being praised for clear legal strategy within minutes of first contact.
We can describe their legal work as precise, forceful, and outcome-driven. They have a solid record of acquittals, dismissed prosecutions, and reduced sentences.
Communication is solid. There are always updates at every stage, complete with detailed explanations of potential outcomes.
We also appreciate how patient they are with vulnerable clients. They, in fact, accommodate representation for individuals with learning difficulties or dyslexia.
Their availability also makes them an accessible choice. They’re available for late-night responses, bank-holiday court appearances, and even free second opinions wherever possible.
As for fees, we find them reasonable as they are within the city’s average. Just take note that certain cases may entail additional or higher costs.
There were just a few hiccups for us. We heard complaints about staff not answering phone calls from clients. These are rare cases, though we understand how they can be frustrating.
Intelligent and dedicated
“Hi all, I have worked with Naila on a few serious cases in which she has worked and helped me through. She is a intelligent and dedicated individual that works on your case with complete efforts. I would highly recommend this firm for your case, for complete success. Thank you Naila to always helping me through in difficult and stressful times.”
Henna Ahmed | Google Review
Professional and highly capable
“that Naila will do every in power to help you and your loved ones. We known her for good eight years she’s never let us down. Professional highly capable and intelligent. Can’t recommend anyone else . You’ll not be disappointed as they deliver every time.”
Shydaah R | Google Review