Nicholas Hertel is a dedicated criminal defence lawyer at CDLA who practises exclusively in criminal law across Sydney and New South Wales.

He represents clients at some of the most stressful and confronting moments of their lives — leading up to, during and after an arrest, when facing serious criminal charges, or when a family member urgently needs help with a bail application for their loved one.

Nicholas completed his Bachelor of Laws at Australian Catholic University, following the completion of a Bachelor of 3D Animation and Visual Effects at Torrens University Australia.

His diverse academic background reflects both analytical precision and creative problem-solving — qualities he now applies strategically in criminal defence.

Before entering legal practice, Nicholas volunteered at the Toongabbie Legal Centre, assisting in the delivery of pro bono legal services to disadvantaged members of the local community.

This early experience reinforced his commitment to access to justice and advocacy for vulnerable individuals navigating complex legal systems.

Nicholas also brings over seven years of managerial experience as a swim instructor, developing strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills that now translate into meticulous case preparation and client care.

He served as Treasurer of the Blacktown Law Society, demonstrating his active involvement and standing within the legal profession.

Exclusive Focus on Criminal Defence

Since completing his law degree, Nicholas has practised exclusively in criminal defence — a reflection of his genuine passion for protecting the rights of accused persons.

He understands the relentless pressure of the criminal justice process and works tirelessly to ensure his clients have :

• A strong and fearless voice in court
• Clear, practical advice at every stage
• Strategic direction tailored to their case
• The best possible prospects of success

Nicholas is friendly, approachable, and completely non-judgmental. He firmly upholds the fundamental principle that every person accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty.

Clients and their families can speak openly with confidence, knowing they will be treated with respect and discretion.

Strong, Strategic Court Advocacy

Nicholas is known for being smart, prepared, and fierce in court when it matters most. He appears in bail applications, defended hearings, sentence proceedings, and complex criminal matters across all levels of court.

Nicholas can assist in all areas of criminal law, including :

• Bail applications and urgent release from custody
• Domestic and family violence matters
• Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)
• Sexual assault and serious sexual offences
• Drug possession and supply charges
• Child sex allegations
• Weapons and firearms offences
• Assault police and hinder police charges
• Robbery, stealing, break and enter
• White collar and fraud offences
• Traffic matters, including drink driving, negligent and dangerous driving
• Serious strictly indictable matters including murder and manslaughter

Nicholas works with discipline and precision to place his clients in the strongest possible position. He leaves no stone unturned in preparing a case, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution evidence, and presenting compelling submissions to the court.

Giving You Peace of Mind

Nicholas has a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible result in every case. His clients gain peace of mind knowing their matter is being handled with urgency, skill, and determination — and that what needs to get done, gets done.

As an important and valued member of the CDLA team, Nicholas Hertel provides powerful advocacy combined with genuine care for the people he represents.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a criminal offence or needs urgent assistance with a bail application, contact our criminal defence team today for a free first confidential consultation for urgent legal advice on (02) 8606 2218.