4 of the best criminal defence lawyers in Manchester

Facing criminal investigations or court proceedings in Greater Manchester requires formidable, specialised representation. The calibre of legal defence directly affects the outcome of interviews under caution, bail hearings, and trials. To identify the city's leading criminal defence solicitors, practices have been evaluated based on pre-charge advocacy success, trial experience across all court levels, client support standards, and fee transparency.

Here are four of the best criminal defence lawyers in Manchester, selected for their rigorous advocacy and commitment to protecting their clients' rights.

How much do criminal defence lawyers charge in Manchester?

The cost of criminal defence lawyer fees in Manchester typically ranges from £150 to £450 per hour. On average, private fees range from £1,000 to £3,000 for Magistrates’ Courts cases, while 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

Website

Olliers Solicitors is a premier specialist criminal defence practice, focusing exclusively on general crime, sexual offences, fraud, and regulatory prosecutions. The firm is highly acclaimed for pre-charge expertise, proactively liaising with the police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to secure 'no further action' decisions before cases ever reach court. Clients commend the team's meticulous analysis of evidence, direct partner involvement, and upfront fee transparency.

Client Reviews

“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

“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

Website

Burton Copeland has over 35 years of experience delivering robust criminal defence representation, spanning police station advice, Magistrates' Court hearings, and complex Crown Court trials. The firm is noted for thorough case preparation and strategic legal submissions. Solicitors are highly regarded for providing clear, calm guidance that reduces client stress during challenging investigations.

Client Reviews

“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

“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. Mary Monson Solicitors

Location: Suite 318, 125 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2LH

Contact: +44 161 394 0402

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, Friday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Website

Mary Monson Solicitors provides high-calibre defence representation for serious criminal offences, complex fraud, and sexual allegations. Known for a proactive approach, the firm conducts thorough independent investigations to challenge prosecution evidence. Room advocacy is highly praised, particularly in cases involving youths and vulnerable individuals, and structured fixed-fee pricing is offered to help clients manage costs.

Client Reviews

“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

“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

4. Platts Solicitors

Location: 149-151 Dickenson Rd, Rusholme, Manchester M14 5HZ

Contact: +44 161 224 2555

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Website

Platts Solicitors is an outcome-driven practice delivering comprehensive criminal defence services. The firm possesses exceptional frontline police-station expertise, providing clients with clear, strategic advice from the moment of arrest. There is a strong record of securing acquittals and discontinued trials, and the team is highly regarded for patient, supportive advocacy when representing vulnerable clients or individuals with learning difficulties.

Client Reviews

“Hi all, I have worked with Naila on a few serious cases in which she has worked and helped me through. She is an 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 for always helping me through in difficult and stressful times.”

• Henna Ahmed, Google Review

“I know that Naila will do everything in her power to help you and your loved ones. We have known her for a good eight years and she has 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

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