OUR LEGAL SERVICES

CRIMINAL LAW.

Facing criminal charges can put your freedom, career, and reputation at risk. Pawson Law provides strategic, expert defence and clear guidance at every stage – helping you navigate the system with confidence and achieve the best possible outcome.

If you are under investigation or have been charged by Police, it is critical to obtain legal advice before speaking to authorities. Early advice can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

At Pawson Law, we support clients facing all types of criminal charges, from less serious matters through to the most complex cases. This includes PAL 4 and life imprisonment matters, whether through Legal Aid or private instruction.

Defending Charges & Court Representation

We provide strong advocacy at every stage of the criminal process, including:

  • Bail applications
  • Judge-alone trials and jury trials
  • Sentencing advocacy
  • Appeals

If you wish to defend allegations, we have extensive trial experience and will guide you through the process with clear, practical advice.

Avoiding Conviction

Where appropriate, we work to avoid convictions and minimise long-term consequences, including:

  • Police Diversion
  • Discharge without conviction applications
Senior, Experienced Representation

Pawson Law is led by highly experienced criminal lawyers:

  • David Pawson is a senior lawyer with experience as both a Senior Prosecutor and defence counsel. He holds Provider Approval Level 4 (PAL 4), the highest Legal Aid designation.
  • Eleanor Dyche, Director, is a highly experienced trial lawyer and holds Provider Approval Level 3 (PAL 3).

You may be eligible to select David or Eleanor as your preferred counsel for serious matters.

Our experience on both sides of the criminal justice system, combined with strong professional relationships with enforcement agencies, allows us to take a strategic and effective approach to every case.

Where We Work

We are experienced criminal lawyers based in Tauranga, providing specialist services across the Bay of Plenty, Waikato, and the wider central and upper North Island.

We regularly appear in the District Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, Court Martial, and Court Martial Appeal Court.

Our Approach & Fees

We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality legal representation with a personalised approach. We do not operate a high-volume practice—our focus is on achieving the best possible outcomes for each client.

We offer competitive and transparent pricing, including fixed fees for most matters. Where a fixed fee is agreed, we do not charge for routine communication such as phone calls, emails, or correspondence.

Legal Aid is available for eligible clients, and we also accept credit card payments for those who require urgent assistance.

Why Choose Pawson Law
  • Senior, highly experienced criminal defence lawyers
  • Expertise in serious and complex cases
  • Proven trial and appellate experience
  • Strategic, practical advice from the outset
  • Transparent, fixed-fee options

GET IN TOUCH

CONTACT
PAWSON LAW

LOCATION

20 Park Street, Tauranga 3110
New Zealand