White Collar Crime Lawyers Melbourne

Most white collar crime offences in Australia are prosecuted under Commonwealth legislation – primarily the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) and the Corporations Act 2001. Investigations are typically conducted by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), or the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), and prosecutions are run by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP).

The range of conduct captured under this category is broad. Offences include corporate fraud, false accounting, embezzlement by company officers, money laundering, insider trading, bribery and corruption, tax evasion, and obtaining financial advantage by deception. Depending on the nature of the alleged conduct, matters may be heard in the Magistrates’ Court, the County Court, or federal jurisdictions.

Understanding the precise legislative framework from the outset – and how each agency approaches its investigation – is essential. An experienced criminal defence lawyer will help you navigate this landscape from the moment contact is made.

Slades & Parsons acts for clients accused of white collar crime from the earliest stages of investigation through to the conclusion of any court proceedings. Our approach is strategic and outcome-focused from the first point of contact with authorities.

Our lawyers provide: 

• Expert advice on commercial and financial criminal law 
• Skilled representation during AFP, ASIC, and ATO interviews and investigations 
• Strong courtroom advocacy in both state and federal jurisdictions 
• Expert preparation of briefs, defences, and sentencing submissions 
• Negotiation with prosecutors, where appropriate 
• A discreet, practical, and confidential service throughout

Whether the matter calls for challenging the charges, negotiating a resolution, or preparing for trial, we act in your best interests at every stage. Our aim is to resolve your matter as efficiently and effectively as possible, while minimising the legal, financial, and reputational risks you face.

Slades & Parsons is one of Melbourne’s most experienced criminal defence firms, with over 35 years representing clients in white collar crime and commercial fraud matters. We have acted across a wide range of cases in Victoria – from early-stage ATO audits and regulatory inquiries through to complex Commonwealth prosecutions.

Our lawyers are recognised by the Law Institute of Victoria as specialist criminal lawyers, and our reputation is built on thorough preparation and exceptional advocacy. We draw on decades of experience to ensure every aspect of a client’s defence is carefully prepared and forcefully presented.

We act for individuals, company officers, and business entities. We understand that the consequences of a white collar conviction extend well beyond the courtroom – the reputational and professional damage can be severe and lasting – and we approach every matter with that reality in mind.

If you have been contacted by the AFP, ASIC, or the ATO – or if you suspect you are the subject of an investigation – seek legal advice before you respond to anything. Many clients engage with investigators before consulting a lawyer. In complex financial crime matters, that decision alone can limit your options and significantly compromise your position.

Early intervention is decisive. From the moment you engage Slades & Parsons, we will advise you on your rights, help you respond appropriately to any contact from authorities, and begin building a defence strategy tailored to the facts of your matter.

If you have received a search warrant, been asked to attend an interview, had documents or devices seized, or been formally charged, call us immediately. The resources that agencies like the CDPP devote to these prosecutions are substantial – the strength of your legal representation from day one will matter.