

Matthew Townsend, the Principal Solicitor at Townsend Lawyers, seamlessly blends his military background with his extensive courtroom experience to provide exceptional criminal defence services throughout Western Australia. A former member of the Australian Defence Force, Matthew applies military-grade discipline and a strategic mindset to his legal practice, focusing on areas such as bail applications, assault, drug offences, sexual offence defence, and trials in both the District and Magistrates Courts. As the owner of Townsend Lawyers, Matthew is dedicated to offering fearless, client-focused representation. He adeptly navigates the complexities of serious indictable offences, drug charges, assault, domestic violence, white-collar crime, and traffic offences, ensuring that each client receives thorough and tactical advocacy. Known for his integrity, discretion, and commitment to achieving results, Matthew passionately advocates for justice and fairness, whether defending complex legal matters or giving straightforward legal advice. Matthew's legal career began with roles that honed his skills in legal research and document management, preparing him for the rigorous demands of criminal defence work. His early experiences involved supporting both defence and prosecution in criminal trials, as well as providing comprehensive legal support in family law cases. Matthew's education at the Leo Cussen Centre for Law and Edith Cowan University equipped him with a solid foundation in law, which he continues to build upon with his commitment to justice and client service. Based in Perth, Matthew and his team at Townsend Lawyers serve clients across Western Australia, consistently committed to protecting rights, preserving freedoms, and delivering justice.

Principal
Townsend Lawyers Western Australia
May 2025 - Present • 1 year 5 months
Lawyer
Criminal Law WA
Oct 2024 - May 2025 • 7 months

Criminal Defence Lawyer
Oswald Legal Pty Ltd
Aug 2022 - Oct 2024 • 2 years 2 months

Senior Law Clerk
Beacon Family Law
Mar 2022 - Aug 2022 • 5 months
Law Clerk
Albert Wolff Chambers
Feb 2017 - Mar 2022 • 5 years 1 month
Scuba Diving Instructor
Perth Scuba
Feb 2015 - May 2017 • 2 years 3 months

Business Finance Manager
Automotive Holdings Group (AHG)
Nov 2011 - Jan 2015 • 3 years 2 months

Tank Commander
Australian Department of Defence
Oct 2004 - Oct 2011 • 7 years

PLT, Law
Leo Cussen Centre for Law
2022 - 2022
Diving Instructor, Diving
Padi
2017 - 2017

Bachelor of Laws - LLB, Law
Edith Cowan University
2017 - 2021

Gym Instructor and Sports Massage, Health and Physical Education/Fitness
Australian Institute of Fitness
2013
Last checked: 23 Apr 2026 • Checked with Victorian Legal Services Board