Bill Doogue

Bill Doogue, a prominent figure in the field of criminal law, has been distinguished as one of Australia’s five foremost criminal lawyers by Doyle’s Guide. With a career spanning over 30 years, Bill has established himself as a formidable defence lawyer since being admitted to practice in 1989, and he has held the status of an Accredited Criminal Law Specialist since 1998. Bill has represented high-ranking church officials in several Royal Commission hearings and has counselled both past and present Liberal and Labour politicians from State and Federal parliaments on various allegations and criminal law matters. His collaboration with King's Counsel and Chief Corporate Counsel has been crucial in providing strategic advice to some of Australia’s largest corporations on potential criminal and quasi-criminal issues. Doogue + George, the firm Bill leads, is renowned for its involvement in sensitive internal investigations both domestically and internationally. One notable case included appearing for the accused in the first major allegations of bribery of foreign officials related to the Reserve Bank—known as the Securrency case. Bill is adept at representing individuals when their interests conflict with those of corporations, guiding them through intricate legal landscapes. The firm consistently handles jury trials in the County and Supreme Courts, bolstering its reputation for practical case assessments. Bill particularly excels in the strategic phase of cases, aiming to obstruct investigations before charges are formalised. Earlier in his career, Bill spent two and a half years as a criminal lawyer with the Aboriginal Legal Service in the Northern Territory, and he has also appeared in courts across NSW, Tasmania, and South Australia, as well as advising international clients. His dedication extended to his role as Chairperson of the Broadmeadows Community Legal Centre committee, where he volunteered for over a decade. Bill’s expertise has repeatedly earned him accolades as a leading criminal defence lawyer in both Victoria and Australia, as reflected in the Doyle’s Guide and The Best Lawyers in Australia. His Melbourne and Sydney-based practice continues to thrive on providing incisive and effective legal counsel. Clients and legal professionals alike value Bill’s practical and insightful advice, which has proven invaluable in navigating the complexities of the law.