By Ruth Parker, Principal Lawyer and Director
Experienced criminal defence lawyers representing clients in Melbourne and across Victoria since 1976.
Book a Free Tele-consult Request a Call BackGalbally Parker is a Melbourne-based criminal defence law firm that provides legal representation across criminal charges, investigations, court proceedings and appeals. Established in 1976, the firm is one of Melbourne's longest-standing criminal defence practices. Its lawyers represent clients at every stage — from initial police contact through to hearings and appeals in the Supreme Court of Victoria and beyond.
In addition to criminal law, the firm advises on family law matters connected with criminal proceedings and workplace safety prosecutions under WorkSafe Victoria. According to the Law Institute of Victoria, criminal defence refers to the legal representation of individuals or entities accused of criminal conduct, covering all stages from investigation through trial and appeal.
From initial police investigations through to court hearings and appeals, the firm combines extensive criminal law experience with a commitment to protecting clients' rights and helping them understand their legal options.
Galbally Parker is a client-focused criminal defence firm that builds strong relationships with clients and treats each person as an individual rather than a case number. This approach means understanding each client's unique situation and providing support during what is often a stressful and uncertain time.
Furthermore, the firm maintains an extensive network of expert witnesses and specialists across fields such as forensics, psychology and financial analysis. These partnerships strengthen legal strategies and ensure no detail is overlooked, even in the most complex matters. As a result, the firm is equipped to handle cases that involve disputed evidence, forensic investigations and multi-layered legal arguments.
Posted on Google — Matilda McDermott
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a very stressful case last year and hired Natasha Poppen as my lawyer. I had so much faith in her and that the outcome would be the best it could possibly be given the circumstances. She also had excellent choice in the barrister she took on for the case, knew how to argue the law very well and argue the best possible outcome. Most charges dropped and a diversion for one of them.
Posted on Google — Steve W
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I came in with one of the biggest honest stuff up I did. I was really scared of what I did. And I spoke to the lawyers. They were really honest and nice people and helped me out the best I could with my difficulties and help me out the best they could and we got there in the end. I am very grateful for all the work they did highly recommended.
Posted on Google — Ian Bouch
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Once again Ruth Parker and her team have got me my license back after losing it for 10 years, a miracle, it's the 2nd time I've used Galbally Parker and I've had 2 wins, if you're in trouble for the first time or someone who has worn green use Ruth or your wasting your money on anyone else. Also special thanks to Alex & Tom they were outstanding. Biggest thanks to Ruth, it's been amazing knowing that you're in my corner.
Posted on Google — Vicki Morfonios
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would like to say a massive thank you to Natasha Poppen and Thomas Bell. I have nothing but good words to say..the professionalism, the level of expertise and more importantly the level of care. Our case was extremely complicated with alot of uncertainty, but throughout the whole journey we felt well informed and supported. We had an absolutely amazing outcome which would not have been possible without Galbally-Parker. I would highly recommend Galbally-Parker to anyone that needs professional and trustworthy legal representation.
Posted on Google — Sam Orlando
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've recently been in court and I found Ruth's services excellent, she helped bring me justice with the judge dropping all 6 charges. I highly recommend Ruth to anyone who needs a lawyer. Thanks again for all your help. 👍😎
Posted on Google — Tommy
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Facing a highly challenging and uncertain legal situation, I sought advice from several legal practitioners but struggled to find clarity or reassurance. Everything changed when I engaged Ruth Parker at Galbally Parker Lawyers. From our very first meeting, Ruth showed exceptional decisiveness, deep legal expertise, and an ability to quickly identify the core issues. Her clear and honest assessments, combined with her calm and approachable manner, gave me immediate confidence and a genuine sense of safety at a time when I needed it most. Throughout the matter, Ruth's strategic judgment was precise, firm, and consistently effective. She anticipated developments with remarkable accuracy, ultimately steering the process toward an outstanding outcome. She managed every stage with professionalism, integrity, and composure. At every stage, I felt supported, protected, and truly understood. I cannot recommend Ruth Parker highly enough to anyone seeking legal representation that is professional, trustworthy, and exceptionally skilled. She is without question the advocate you can rely on.
Posted on Google — Geoff Fear
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am just a normal tradie, with no idea about law etc. I recently found myself on charges and facing court, not having a clue what to do. So I approached Galbally Parker for help. These guys are out of this world, they made the whole incident so easy to deal with. Not only did they get a better outcome, than I planned, and they did it for a very reasonable price. I honestly couldn't recommend them enough, great service with awesome results, and at a good price. Totally satisfied.
Our contact details:
Suite 102, Level 1, 250 Queen Street,
Melbourne VIC 3000
Email: lawyers@galballyparker.com.au
Telephone: 03 9670 8771
Fax: 03 9670 1594
Galbally Parker's three key practice areas are criminal law, family law connected to criminal proceedings, and workplace safety (WorkSafe) prosecutions. Each area is led by lawyers with specific experience in the relevant jurisdiction and legislation.
| Practice Area | Scope | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Law | Criminal charges, investigations, court proceedings, appeals | Murder, drug offences, fraud, assault, sexual offences |
| Family Law | Family law matters connected with criminal proceedings | Family violence intervention orders, related court matters |
| WorkSafe | Workplace safety investigations and prosecutions | Occupational health and safety offences, fatal workplace incidents |
Galbally Parker offers over 50 years of criminal defence experience, accessible communication throughout your case, and clear legal advice from the first consultation. Choosing a criminal defence lawyer is an important decision, and clients rely on the firm for practical guidance and a commitment to protecting their rights.
Criminal defence has been at the centre of Galbally Parker's practice since 1976 — a span of over 50 years. During that time, the firm's lawyers have represented clients in matters including:
The firm's experience includes significant criminal trials and appeals involving forensic investigations and complex legal arguments. According to the Courts Victoria website, criminal appeals in Victoria are heard by the Court of Appeal, which is the highest appellate court in the state for criminal matters.
Galbally Parker's lawyers keep clients informed at every stage, which is especially important when facing uncertainty about criminal charges or court proceedings. The team takes time to explain the legal process, discuss available options and provide advice as matters progress. In addition, the lawyers work closely with clients to ensure they understand each decision and what it may mean for the outcome of their case.
The firm provides clear, honest legal advice from the initial consultation onward. During a first meeting, clients can discuss their circumstances, understand the charges or legal issues involved and receive preliminary advice about their options. The lawyers explain likely next steps, discuss the fee structure and outline how a matter may progress. This approach includes an honest assessment of challenges and risks so clients can make informed decisions.
Ruth Parker is the Principal Lawyer and Director of Galbally Parker. She has extensive experience representing clients in serious and complex criminal proceedings across Victoria and New South Wales. Ruth has worked with the firm since 2007.
Her notable cases include representing Faruk Orman, whose murder conviction was overturned by the Victorian Court of Appeal in 2019. That case followed revelations about Victoria Police's use of barrister Nicola Gobbo as a secret human source — a matter that led to the Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants (2018–2020).
"From our very first meeting, Ruth showed exceptional decisiveness, deep legal expertise, and an ability to quickly identify the core issues. Her clear and honest assessments, combined with her calm and approachable manner, gave me immediate confidence."
Ruth leads the Galbally Parker team with a focus on thorough preparation, strategic criminal defence and protecting the rights of those facing criminal proceedings.
Learn More About RuthGalbally Parker has represented clients in landmark criminal cases, including successful appeals that overturned murder convictions and bail applications in serious drug trafficking matters. The following case studies illustrate the firm's experience:
Galbally Parker's lawyers represent clients across a wide range of criminal offences, investigations and legal proceedings in Victoria. The firm's practice areas include:
Each of these areas involves specific provisions under Victorian legislation, including the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic) and the Criminal Procedure Act 2009 (Vic). The firm tailors its approach to the facts and legal issues in each individual case.
Galbally Parker publishes regular articles on criminal defence topics relevant to clients and the broader community. Recent insights cover topics from secret commission offences to committal reforms in Victoria:
Yes. Galbally Parker offers a free initial telephone consultation (tele-consult) that can be booked online through Calendly. During this call, clients can discuss their circumstances, the charges or allegations they face, and receive preliminary advice about their legal options and likely next steps.
Galbally Parker represents clients across Victoria and has also handled matters in New South Wales. For example, the firm represented Moustapha Dib in a successful criminal appeal in the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal in 2016. The firm's office is at 250 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, but it regularly appears in courts throughout Victoria.
A criminal defence lawyer (or solicitor) manages a client's case from start to finish — gathering evidence, advising on strategy, and handling court paperwork. A barrister is a specialist advocate who is briefed by the solicitor to argue the case in court. Galbally Parker's solicitors work with experienced barristers when a matter goes to trial, as noted in client reviews describing the firm's choice of barristers.
Galbally Parker defends clients charged with drug possession, drug trafficking (including commercial quantity trafficking), drug manufacturing and related offences under Victorian law. The firm has successfully represented clients in cases where the prosecution withdrew all charges following evidence review and bail applications.
Ruth Parker has been with Galbally Parker since 2007, giving her nearly two decades of criminal defence experience. She has acted in significant criminal trials and appeals across Victoria and New South Wales, including the Faruk Orman case in 2019 and matters involving organised crime and alleged miscarriages of justice.