Criminal defence, across every court.

Vulcan Chambers practises criminal law and criminal law only. The members of chambers appear in every court of New Zealand, up to and including the Supreme Court.

Where the chambers act.

The members take on a full range of criminal work, from first summary appearances to serious jury trials and appeals. Common areas include the following.

01

Serious and violent crime

Charges under the Crimes Act, including assault, aggravated offending, and matters carrying the risk of imprisonment.

02

Drug offences

Prosecutions under the Misuse of Drugs Act, from possession through to supply and manufacture charges.

03

Fraud and financial

Dishonesty and financial offending, including cases turning on documents, disclosure, and expert evidence.

04

Traffic and driving

Land Transport Act charges, including excess breath and blood alcohol, dangerous driving, and licence matters.

05

Family violence

Defending family violence charges and related protection order and bail conditions.

06

Jury trials and appeals

Defended hearings, jury trials, and appeals against conviction and sentence in the higher courts.

07

Parole Board

Appearances before the New Zealand Parole Board, including recall proceedings and applications for release.

08

Proceeds of crime

Defending restraint and forfeiture applications brought under the proceeds of crime regime, including asset and profit orders.

From first appearance to final appeal.

Members of chambers have appeared successfully in courts and tribunals throughout New Zealand, up to and including the Supreme Court.

01

Tribunals and District Court

First appearances, bail, summary hearings, and defended matters.

02

High Court

Serious charges, jury trials, and sentencing on indictment.

03

Court of Appeal

Appeals against conviction and sentence.

04

Supreme Court of New Zealand

The final appellate court, for questions of general or public importance.

How a case is run.

Step onE

Advice, early

You are told where the case stands and what the realistic options are before decisions are made.

Step two

Prepared for trial

Every case is worked up as if it will be fought, so nothing is left to the morning of the hearing.

Step three

Argued in court

The barrister you instructed is the barrister who appears and argues the defence.

Speak to a barrister who argues criminal cases every week.

Contact a member of chambers directly, or send an enquiry for the appropriate barrister to respond.