Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally

Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally is the leading criminal defence firm in Melbourne. We represent clients in complex, high-stakes matters.

Law Institute of Victoria Accredited Criminal Law Specialists. www.starylaw.com
Ph: (03) 8622 8200 * Available 24/7

Mobile phones, social media, encrypted messaging apps, and digital records now play a major role in criminal investigati...
04/06/2026

Mobile phones, social media, encrypted messaging apps, and digital records now play a major role in criminal investigations.

Police may seek access to:
📞 Phone data
💬 Text messages
📱 Social media accounts
📍 Location tracking
☁️ Cloud storage and digital communications
📧 Email accounts
🔍 Internet search histories

Allegations involving digital evidence can arise in matters involving drug offences, fraud, assault, cybercrime, and organised crime investigations.

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, our lawyers have extensive experience advising clients in complex criminal matters involving fore

📞 03 8622 8200

With youth crime laws continuing to evolve across Victoria, allegations involving young people can carry serious and lon...
02/06/2026

With youth crime laws continuing to evolve across Victoria, allegations involving young people can carry serious and long-lasting consequences for their future.

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, we understand the complexities of Children’s Court proceedings and the importance of early, strategic legal advice for both young people and their families.

Our team includes an Accredited Children’s Law Specialist with extensive experience representing children and young people facing criminal charges, including serious and high-profile matters.

We regularly advise and represent clients in matters involving:
🔹 Bail applications
🔹 Assault and violent offences
🔹 Aggravated burglary and theft offences
🔹 Intervention orders
🔹 Children’s Court proceedings

Strong representation at an early stage can make a significant difference to how a matter progresses through the court system.

As May comes to a close, we are reflecting on a month of growth, connection and meaningful engagement across the legal p...
29/05/2026

As May comes to a close, we are reflecting on a month of growth, connection and meaningful engagement across the legal profession and wider community at Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally.

🔹 CFLA Networking Night – Melbourne Law School
On Thursday 14 May, Partner Louise Conwell and Senior Associate Will Hart were pleased to attend the Criminal & Family Law Association (CFLA) Networking Night at Melbourne Law School.
The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with students and future practitioners interested in criminal law, discuss pathways into the profession, and share insights into advocacy and criminal defence practice. We are always proud to support initiatives that foster professional development and meaningful engagement within the legal community.

🔹 Launch of Our New Website
This month also marked the launch of our new website: www.starylaw.com
The launch represents more than a refreshed online presence – it reflects the continued evolution of our practice, our shared values, and our commitment to delivering clear, strategic and client-focused legal services.

🔹 National Reconciliation Week
Throughout National Reconciliation Week, we reflected on the importance of listening, learning and strengthening relationships with First Nations peoples and communities.
As a firm, we recognise the importance of meaningful reconciliation and the role the legal profession plays in promoting access, fairness and justice for all Australians.

🔹 Victorian Justice Leaders AI Forum
Partner Sam Norton was pleased to represent Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally at the Victorian Justice Leaders AI Forum, convened by the Law Institute of Victoria.
Bringing together leaders from government, the courts and the legal profession, the forum explored the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities surrounding the ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence in legal practice and the administration of justice.

As we move into a new month, we remain committed to contributing to important conversations, supporting the profession, and continuing to evolve as a firm.

The first 24 hours after being charged matter more than most people realise.This is where we see the biggest avoidable m...
28/05/2026

The first 24 hours after being charged matter more than most people realise.

This is where we see the biggest avoidable mistakes happen – often before someone has even spoken to a lawyer.

Here’s what you should do immediately ⬇️

👉 Know exactly what you’re facing
Charges, bail conditions, and court date – get clarity from the start.

👉 Get legal advice early
Not later. Early advice can change how your entire case is managed.

👉 Don’t contact anyone involved
Even “innocent” contact can breach bail or make your situation worse.

👉 Assume everything you say may be used later
Messages, posts, and conversations can all become evidence.

👉 Follow bail conditions strictly
Even minor breaches can escalate quickly and result in custody.

The decisions made in this window often shape everything that follows.

If you need legal advice, get in contact with us as soon as possible. For 24/7 advice call (03) 8622 8200.

It’s Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June), and this year’s theme, “All In,” is a reminder that reconciliation requires ...
27/05/2026

It’s Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June), and this year’s theme, “All In,” is a reminder that reconciliation requires action from everyone — not just recognition, but commitment in practice.

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, that responsibility is reflected in the work we do every day in the criminal justice system.

We act for clients facing serious allegations and complex proceedings, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who too often experience disproportionate impacts within the legal system.

Being “All In” means focusing on what happens in practice — ensuring every client receives proper advice, strong representation, and a fair opportunity to be heard.

Reconciliation is not separate from the law. It is reflected in how the law is applied, and whether it delivers fairness in reality.

That is where our focus remains.

Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally was pleased to attend the Victorian Justice Leaders AI Forum today, with Partner Sam Nor...
26/05/2026

Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally was pleased to attend the Victorian Justice Leaders AI Forum today, with Partner Sam Norton representing the firm in an important discussion on the future of artificial intelligence in the legal profession and justice system.

Convened by the Law Institute of Victoria and bringing together leaders from across government, the courts and the legal sector, the forum explored the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities surrounding the ethical and effective use of AI in legal practice and the administration of justice.

As the legal profession continues to evolve, these conversations are critical to ensuring innovation strengthens access to justice, legal service delivery and outcomes for the Victorian community.

Thank you to the Law Institute of Victoria for bringing together such an important and forward-thinking discussion.

We’re pleased to announce the launch of our new website, now live at https://www.starylaw.com/The launch of our new webs...
25/05/2026

We’re pleased to announce the launch of our new website, now live at https://www.starylaw.com/

The launch of our new website represents more than just a refreshed online presence – it reflects the continued evolution of our practice, our shared values, and our commitment to delivering clear, strategic, and client-focused legal services.

The new website has been designed to make it easier for clients and the community to understand who we are, what we do, and how we can assist.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved in bringing this project to life.

We’re excited about what lies ahead as we continue to grow and evolve under our new identity.

Visit the new site and explore what’s next: https://www.starylaw.com/

"I highly recommend Sam Norton and, of course, Lauren, the amazing support behind the man. They were professional, strat...
21/05/2026

"I highly recommend Sam Norton and, of course, Lauren, the amazing support behind the man. They were professional, strategic and extremely thorough from start to finish. They explained everything clearly, prepared meticulously and handled the case with confidence and skill in court. Most importantly, they achieved a fantastic outcome, and I am extremely grateful for their expertise and support during a stressful time."

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, we’re all about guiding you through your legal journey with care and expertise. If you need support, we’re here to help! 🙌✨

🚨 Intervention orders can have significant implications, even if no criminal charges are filed. It’s essential to unders...
19/05/2026

🚨 Intervention orders can have significant implications, even if no criminal charges are filed. It’s essential to understand what these orders mean and your rights regarding them.

✨ Here’s a breakdown of what intervention orders entail, and what actions you can and cannot take ⬇️

https://www.starylaw.com/services/intervention-orders

🔍 If you find yourself facing an intervention order or need legal advice, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Our team at Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally is here to provide the guidance you need.

Yesterday, Partner Louise Conwell and Senior Associate Will Hart from Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally were pleased to at...
15/05/2026

Yesterday, Partner Louise Conwell and Senior Associate Will Hart from Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally were pleased to attend the Criminal & Family Law Association (CFLA) Networking Night at Melbourne Law School.

The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with students and future practitioners interested in criminal law, discuss pathways into the profession, and share insights into advocacy and criminal defence practice.

We are proud to support initiatives that foster professional development and meaningful engagement within the legal community, and we thank the CFLA for hosting such a successful and engaging evening.

It is always rewarding to meet aspiring lawyers who are passionate about criminal law and the future of the profession.

Address

Level 12, 460 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne, VIC
3000

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9am - 5:30pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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