Bill Doogue

Accredited Criminal Law Specialist | Co-Founder of Doogue + George Defence Lawyers

Bill Doogue is a distinguished criminal defence lawyer based in Melbourne, Australia, with over 30 years of experience in the legal profession. Admitted to practice in 1989, he has been an Accredited Criminal Law Specialist since 1998 and was recognised as one of Australia's five 'pre-eminent criminal lawyers' by Doyle’s Guide in 2024 .​

As a co-founder of Doogue + George Defence Lawyers, Bill leads a firm renowned for its expertise in handling complex criminal and quasi-criminal matters. The firm has been involved in high-profile cases, including representing two individuals in the Securrency case, which involved the Reserve Bank and allegations of bribery of foreign officials.

Bill's extensive experience encompasses representing high-ranking church officials at Royal Commission hearings and advising both current and former politicians from Liberal and Labour parties at state and federal levels. He has also collaborated with King's Counsel and Chief Corporate Counsel for some of Australia's largest corporations, providing strategic advice on potential criminal and quasi-criminal issues.

In his early career, Bill served for 2.5 years as a criminal lawyer with the Aboriginal Legal Service in the Northern Territory, gaining invaluable experience in Indigenous legal matters. He has appeared in courts across New South Wales, Tasmania, and South Australia and has advised clients in other countries .​

Bill's firm is known for its practical approach to criminal defence, often intervening before charges are laid to prevent investigations from escalating. The firm regularly conducts jury trials in the County and Supreme Courts, providing a strong foundation for assessing cases effectively.​

Beyond his legal practice, Bill has demonstrated a commitment to community service. He served as the Chairperson of the committee of management for the Broadmeadows Community Legal Centre for over ten years, reflecting his dedication to public service and access to justice.​

Based in Melbourne, Bill Doogue continues to be a leading figure in Australian criminal law, combining extensive experience, strategic insight, and a commitment to justice in his practice.