Louise Conwell is a Partner at Stary Norton Halphen and an experienced criminal defence lawyer known for her strategic advocacy, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to her clients. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy), a Juris Doctor from the University of Melbourne, and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.
A Law Institute of Victoria Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law, Louise has built a reputation for expertly handling complex and serious criminal matters — with particular expertise in homicide cases involving the intersection of mental health and criminal law. She also acts in a wide range of serious matters, including sexual offences, violent crime, and drug-related charges. Louise appears regularly in the Magistrates’, County and Supreme Courts of Victoria, representing clients at every stage of proceedings, including bail applications, committals, pleas and contested hearings. She also has significant experience in family violence matters and intervention orders.
Louise’s career has been shaped by a passion for justice and a strong belief in the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial. Her background includes working as an associate to a Judge of the County Court of Victoria and volunteering at various community legal centres. Her practice seamlessly integrates both solicitor work and contested advocacy, reflecting her ability to manage high-stakes cases with skill and composure.
Louise is also a regular speaker at legal conferences and professional development events, and is especially recognised for her expertise in defending children and young people charged with serious offences. Respected for her intellect, diligence and empathy, Louise is a fierce advocate for her clients and a dedicated contributor to the ongoing development of the criminal law profession.
To make an appointment with Louise, call our Melbourne office on 8622 8200
Recommended Criminal Defence Lawyer
We are pleased to announce that Louise Conwell, an Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law, has been recommended by Doyle’s Guide in 2025 for her outstanding work in criminal defence. Known for her meticulous preparation, persuasive advocacy, and client-focused approach, Louise is widely respected in the legal community. Her dedication to justice and her exceptional skill in handling serious criminal matters make this recognition well deserved.
Cannot recommend Louise and the team at Stary Norton Halphen highly enough.After one 30 minute meeting with Louise I walked away with a feeling that I had nothing to worry about, and that she would be able to take care of everything.That is indeed what happened, and we are now in a position to resume our lives with no trace of this issue linked to us.Louise made us feel supported and comfortable, and no query was too much for her. Thank you so much Louise.
I just wanted to say thank you to Louise for the time and effort you put into my case, words can't express how truly gratefully I am. I feel like I've been given a new start and nothing can't stop me now from continuing to heal and bettering my life. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart
Louise Conwell's expertise, attention to detail, well considered approach to all aspects was exceptional, as was her ability to provide compassionate and professional guidance. I highly recommend Louise.
Advice from a competent and experienced criminal lawyer before you are interviewed can and often does have a meaningful impact on the outcome of your case and in some instances, is the difference between whether your matter proceeds to court or not.
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