Kristy Bell

Kristy Bell is a distinguished lawyer serving as the Director of Bell Criminal Lawyers in Brisbane. With a profound expertise in criminal law, she is one of the few Accredited Criminal Law Specialists in Queensland. Her dedication to advancing the legal field is evident through her active participation in the Queensland Law Society's Criminal Law Committee and her previous role on the Specialist Accreditation Committee. In 2025, Kristy's exceptional contributions were recognised when she was appointed Deputy Chair of the Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council. Her accolades include being named in Doyle's Guide as one of Queensland's preeminent criminal defence lawyers. Kristy adeptly handles a broad spectrum of criminal and quasi-criminal cases including investigative hearings, commissions of inquiry, coronial inquests, domestic and family violence, and criminal confiscations. She collaborates with practitioners in immigration, family, and commercial litigation, ensuring her clients receive comprehensive advice considering all aspects of their circumstances. Kristy's experience is enriched by her roles across different facets of the Criminal Justice System. She has previously served as a prosecutor, including prosecutions for the Royal Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and as a Judge’s Associate in the District Court of Queensland. This diverse background equips her with unique insights into the complexities of legal proceedings. Recognised for her discretion and empathetic approach, Kristy adeptly navigates the challenges her clients face when charged with offences, providing pragmatic advice while steadfastly advocating for their rights. Her areas of practice encompass criminal law, investigative hearings, proceeds of crime, parole matters, traffic offences, and coronial inquests. Kristy's academic credentials include a Bachelor of Laws (Honours), a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice, and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the College of Law Australia. Her commitment to excellence has been consistently acknowledged, with numerous accolades recognising her as a leading figure in criminal and traffic law in Queensland.