High-Profile Murder Trials in NSW: New South Wales (NSW) has witnessed some of the nation’s most high-profile and complex murder trials, captivating Sydney’s public and shaping criminal law for decades. These cases have not only tested the skills of the state’s best criminal defence lawyers but have also left a lasting impact on society and legal precedent. For those seeking seasoned representation in such matters, Sydney’s leading criminal defence firms bring vast expertise and numerous successful outcomes to the courtroom.
Read one of our recent murder case studies.
High-Profile Murder Trials in NSW
NSW has been at the centre of some of Australia’s most shocking murder cases, which have defined the work of Sydney murder lawyers for generations.
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The North Shore Granny Murders: From 1989 to 1990, John Wayne Glover terrorised Sydney’s elderly women, resulting in six deaths and a lengthy hunt, ending with Glover’s conviction and life imprisonment.
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Janine Balding Case: In 1988, the abduction and murder of Janine Balding by five homeless youths generated widespread horror. Convictions and life sentences followed, with no parole, an outcome that underscored the gravity of violent crime in Sydney’s west.
Jamieson, identified as the ringleader, received a life sentence. Over the years, Jamieson has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting that he was not present during the crime. His claims have gained renewed attention due to the emergence of new forensic evidence. A black bandana used to gag Janine was retested, revealing five unidentified male DNA profiles. Notably, none of these profiles matched Jamieson’s DNA.

Read about Peter O’Brien’s appearance discussing the case on 60 Minutes Australia.
Peter O’Brien, our Principal Solicitor, has represented Jamieson pro bono for nine years. Peter has expressed serious concerns about the investigative and judicial processes that led to Jamieson’s conviction. He calls for a thorough re-examination of the evidence and procedures involved. There are issues such as the conditions under which Jamieson’s confession was obtained. This suggests that he was in no state to be interviewed by police, and the failure to test the newly discovered DNA against other potential suspects.
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The Backpacker Murders (Ivan Milat): Between 1989 and 1992, Ivan Milat murdered seven backpackers. His 1996 conviction for multiple murders in NSW remains one of the state’s most infamous cases and is frequently cited in both legal and criminology debates.
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The Staircase Trial: Notably, the 2012 retrial of Leung became the first NSW homicide case to be tried three times due to complex legal appeals and evidence challenges.
These cases highlight why expertise, experience, and a forensic approach matter for anyone facing such charges or seeking justice.
Read more high-profile murder cases in our article.
High-Profile Murder Trials in NSW: The Sydney Murder Lawyer’s Role
Criminal defence lawyers in Sydney face enormous challenges in high-profile murder trials, often requiring not only deep knowledge of the law but also a sophisticated understanding of forensic evidence, media influence, and jury psychology. Sydney murder lawyers work to ensure a robust defence, challenge prosecution claims, and uphold fair trial standards.
At O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors, we have built a reputation for rigorous defence in complex murder trials. The firm provides a personalised approach while handling some of NSW’s toughest cases, offering clients the best chance to protect their rights under intense scrutiny.
Why Experience and Strategy Matter in High-Profile Murder Trials in NSW
Sydney murder trials are rarely simple: they may involve forensic science, media attention, appeals process, and intricate factual disputes. We stand out for its sophisticated strategy and compassionate client support, with over 25 years of experience led by Principal Solicitor Peter O’Brien. Our firm has a proven track record in criminal defence and also civil actions, including compensation for victims of police misconduct and nervous shock claims arising from tragic deaths such as in the Bradley Balzan case.
For those facing murder charges in NSW engaging an accomplished Sydney murder lawyer can be critical for both legal success and peace of mind.
Facing Serious Charges? We Can Help with Your Murder case in NSW
If you or a loved one is facing serious criminal charges, early and effective legal representation is critical. O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors have a proven track record in successfully defending clients in high-stakes matters.
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*We always change details in our case studies to protect client confidentiality.

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