Speaker Bio:

Emma Turnbull is the Director and founding partner of Emma Turnbull Lawyers Pty Ltd, a leading criminal law firm in Victoria established in 2011.

With extensive experience gained from working at Melbourne’s specialist criminal law firms, Emma has built one of the largest practices focused on indictable crime and jury trials in the state.

Emma holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Master of Laws (LLM) from Monash University and became an Accredited Criminal Law Specialist with the Law Institute of Victoria in 2014. She is a fearless advocate, regularly appearing across all courts in the Victorian criminal justice system. Emma’s leadership model is to lead by example, and she balances her role as firm Director with continued hands-on work managing a full file load of firm clients.

Her firm, the largest female-led criminal law practice in Victoria, has consistently been recognized in Doyle’s Annual Guide as a leader in the field of criminal defence.

An industry leader and advocate for change, Emma has received numerous accolades, including:

• 2024 Lawyers Weekly Wellness Advocate of the Year Award
• Finalist in the Lawyers Weekly Partner of the Year Awards (2021–2024)
• Finalist in the Australian Law Awards (2021–2024)

Emma is an active voice on LinkedIn, sharing insights on criminal law, justice, and policy. As a dedicated mentor, she champions the development of professional standards within the legal industry.

Emma continues to refine her skills as an advocate and firm director through ongoing professional development. With a loyal client base and a network of highly regarded barristers and forensic professionals, she remains committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for her clients.