If you are facing criminal charges, you need a lawyer who is dedicated, strategic, and committed to protecting your rights at every stage of the legal process. Our James McQueen brings exactly that approach to every case.

As a criminal defence lawyer with Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia (CDLA) in our Sydney office, James McQueen represents clients across a broad range of criminal matters in the Local, District, Children’s, and Supreme Courts of New South Wales. Known for his thorough preparation, practical advice, and confident courtroom advocacy, he works tirelessly to secure the best possible outcomes for his clients.

James McQueen can manage complex criminal matters from start to finish, handling everything from initial consultations and case preparation through to negotiations, hearings, sentencing proceedings, bail applications, appeals and defended hearings. He understands that being charged with a criminal offence can be one of the most stressful experiences in a person’s life and is committed to providing clear guidance, strong representation, and unwavering support throughout the process.

His criminal law experience spans a wide range of offences, including serious indictable matters, sexual and general assault offences, domestic violence allegations, fraud and dishonesty offences, traffic matters, children’s criminal proceedings, and complex cases involving vulnerable clients. He also has experience in serious matters including murder proceedings and Supreme Court bail applications.

Before joining private practice, James McQueen gained valuable experience with the Aboriginal Legal Service, where he worked alongside solicitors representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients facing criminal charges and significant social disadvantage. This experience provided him with a deep appreciation of the challenges many individuals face within the criminal justice system and reinforced his commitment to ensuring every client receives fair and effective representation.

His dual background in law and accounting enables him to bring a commercially minded and analytical approach to legal problem-solving, particularly in matters involving financial allegations involving complex white collar and money laundering cases or complex evidence.

James McQueen holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Sydney, a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) from the University of Sydney Business School, and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the College of Law. During his studies, he was awarded the Daylell Scholarship and participated in advocacy and mooting programs that further developed his courtroom and litigation skills.

Clients value James McQueen for his attention to detail, calm and approachable manner, and determination to achieve the best possible outcome in every matter. Whether negotiating with prosecutors, preparing detailed legal submissions, or advocating in court, he is committed to protecting his clients’ interests and ensuring their voices are heard.

Outside of legal practice, James McQueen has a strong interest in competitive strategy and problem-solving. He has been involved in both chess instruction and competitive wrestling and grappling, experiences that have helped develop the discipline, focus, and resilience he brings to his clients cases.

James McQueen exclusively practises criminal law and regularly advises clients in matters including:

• Bail applications (Local Court and Supreme Court)
• Assault offences, including common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and grievous bodily harm
• Domestic violence and ADVO matters
• Sexual offence allegations
• Fraud and dishonesty offences of money laundering and white collar crime
• Drug possession and supply offences
• Traffic offences, including drink driving and dangerous driving
• Children’s criminal matters
• Sentencing and severity appeals
• Defended hearings
• Serious indictable offences involving District Court jury trials
• Mental health and diversion applications under section 14

If you have been charged with a criminal or traffic offence, obtaining experienced legal advice early can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.

Contact our office today on (02) 8606 2218 to arrange a free confidential consultation with James McQueen to discuss your matter, protect your rights and achieve the best possible result.