Leonardo Premutico is a distinguished partner practising exclusively in criminal defence law. His journey in criminal law began during his time at the University of Sydney, where his passion for defence work was evident. As a proactive student, Leo sought practical experiences as a paralegal at a well-known criminal law firm, gaining profound insights under the mentorship of a seasoned lawyer with over 25 years of expertise. This early exposure to serious criminal matters enabled him to adeptly prepare cases, scrutinise evidence, and advocate effectively in court. Upon his admission as a solicitor to the Supreme Court of New South Wales, Leo joined one of Sydney's preeminent criminal law firms, where he honed his skills and achieved remarkable outcomes for his clients. His dedication to meticulous preparation and unwavering commitment quickly earned him a stellar reputation among peers and clients alike. With a wealth of experience under his belt, Leo co-founded Essere – The Defenders and continues to excel as a criminal defence lawyer. Leo's prowess sees him appear in courts throughout New South Wales daily, handling a spectrum of cases from drink driving penalties to complex assault charges and even murder. His track record in successfully defending clients in jury trials and defended hearings is exemplary, whether guiding those pleading guilty or asserting their innocence. His appointment to the Serious Criminal Law Panel at the Legal Aid Commission further underscores his expertise. Beyond his practice, Leo imparts his knowledge as a volunteer lecturer with the Traffic Offenders Intervention Program, and he has completed an intensive advocacy program at the Advocacy Institute of Australia, cementing his role as a formidable advocate in criminal defence.
Lawyer
Essere - The Defenders
Jul 2025 - Present • 1 year 4 months
Partner
Benjamin & Leonardo Criminal Defence Lawyers
Jan 2008 - Present • 18 years 10 months
Leading Criminal Defence Lawyer NSW
Recommended Criminal Defence Lawyer Australia
Recommended Criminal Defence Lawyer NSW
Last checked: 11 May 2026 • Checked with Law Society of NSW
