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Ernest Chan is a criminal defence lawyer and former senior police prosecutor with extensive experience in serious criminal matters, combining military discipline, prosecutorial insight, and defence expertise to achieve optimal outcomes for clients.
Special Counsel
Ernest Chan
Ernest Chan is a criminal defence lawyer with a unique skillset shaped by his military service as an Infantry Officer and over 10 years as a senior police prosecutor in the NSW Police Force. He has appeared in hundreds of cases, prosecuting serious drug offences and aggravated break and enter matters, and has extensive experience with high-profile, complex, and lengthy trials.
After leaving the NSW Police Force, Ernest was a Senior Associate at a top Sydney criminal law firm and later founded his own successful firm. He has served on the Legal Aid NSW Criminal Law Panel, Back Up Duty Scheme, Pro Bono Scheme, and the NSW Law Society Mentoring Program. Noted for his empathy, unique experience, and proven results, Ernest joined Brightstone Legal as Special Counsel to provide clients with tailored defence strategies and advocacy expertise.
His background in both prosecution and defence allows him to navigate police negotiations, identify weaknesses in the brief of evidence, and deliver the best possible outcomes for clients, including defended hearings, appeals, bail applications, sentencing, mental health applications, and annulment applications.
Professional Experience
- Infantry Officer in the Army
- Senior Police Prosecutor, NSW Police Force, specialising in serious drug and aggravated break and enter offences
- Member of the Senior Advocates Group, handling complex, high-profile criminal matters
- Senior Associate at a top Sydney criminal law firm
- Principal Lawyer at own Sydney criminal defence firm
- Special Counsel, Brightstone Legal
- Participation in Legal Aid NSW Criminal Law Panel, Back Up Duty Scheme, Pro Bono Scheme, and NSW Law Society Mentoring Program
Key Achievements
- Prosecuted hundreds of serious criminal matters as a senior police prosecutor, including high-profile cases
- Successfully managed complex criminal defence cases as Principal Lawyer, achieving favourable outcomes for clients
- Notable expertise in defended hearings, appeals, bail applications, sentencing, mental health applications, and annulment applications
Success Cases
Three serious drug charges resolved with $2,000 fine following strategic defence
Ernest Chan helped a client facing three serious drug-related charges in NSW, including drug supply, possession, and recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime, achieve a positive outcome. Through strategic submissions highlighting the client’s good character, remorse, and personal circumstances, the court imposed a $2,000 fine instead of a custodial sentence. The client’s passport was also released, allowing him to return overseas without delay.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGE REDUCED: INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ACHIEVES RARE NON-CONVICTION
Ernest Chan helped a client, an international student facing a serious domestic violence allegation of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, achieve an exceptional result by assisting in negotiations that reduced the charge to common assault and presenting strong submissions at sentencing, leading the court to grant a non-conviction bond and refuse a final ADVO, protecting the client’s criminal record and safeguarding his visa future.
common assault charge withdrawn: domestic violence case resolves without final advo
Ernest Chan helped a client facing a domestic violence common assault charge achieve an exceptional outcome. The criminal charge was withdrawn, avoiding a conviction, and a potential two-year Final ADVO was replaced with a short-term, three-month lapsing ADVO. This result highlights the value of early, strategic legal advice in complex domestic violence matters.
Education and Qualifications
- Bachelor of Media, Macquarie University
- Bachelor of Laws, Macquarie University
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, College of Law (Distinction in Criminal Practice)
- Admitted to practice, Supreme Court of New South Wales, 2007
- Completed Advanced Advocacy Course, Prosecutor Team Leader Course, and Specialist Domestic Violence Prosecutor Course
Awards
- J.H. Milne Trophy Prepared Speech Competition
- Trainee Prosecutors Award Police Bank Prize for Academic Achievement
- NSW Police Medal for 10 years of dilligent and ethical service
- Commissioner of Police Emergency Commendation
Our Team
Meet our lawyers
Alex Cao
Partner Lawyer
Sharon Yu
Associate
Alex Zhao
Associate
Cherry Au-Yeung
Solicitor
Victoria Tsopanidis
Paralegal
Testimonials
WORLD CLASS
REPRESENTATION
100+ 5 Star Reviews
Personalised legal strategies tailored to each case
Recognised leaders in criminal defence law
Free initial consultation and case evaluation
Proven success in high-stakes and complex cases
I send my deepest and most sincere gratitude to Ernest Chan of Brightstone Legal. To me, Mr Chan was not only an exceptionally professional and reliable lawyer, but truly MY LIFE SAVER. This was my first time appearing in court. The case arose from a police charge that was not factually sound and was accompanied by a highly restrictive order against me. At the time, the situation placed ...
Yang S
I am thankful for the criminal law team at Brightstone Legal for helping me with my matter, which has lasted almost one year. From the outset, Alex Cao had a plan and was instrumental in how the case should be run. Cherry, Alex Zhao, Sharon and Victoria also assisted in my case to a high degree and Ernest appeared in court and was able to argue my case and get it dismissed. It was an amazing ...
Kevin W
Navigating a legal case is a daunting challenge, especially for immigrants in Australia. Choosing the right legal team is a decision that can truly change the trajectory of your life. Brightstone Legal demonstrates exceptional professionalism, rooted in their profound expertise in criminal law. Their approach is comprehensive—from crafting overarching legal strategies to refining every ...
G Lee
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Brightstone Legal, especially to Mr. Alex Cao, for their exceptional support throughout my case. From the very beginning, I had no familiar lawyers to turn to and felt completely helpless. I searched online for a consultation, and from the first appointment, Alex Cao provided not only clear and professional legal guidance, but also genuine care ...
EEEDDD
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Ernest Chan for everything he has done for me. He is not just a lawyer — he was the person who truly stood by me and fought for me during the most frightening and helpless period of my life.
My case was extremely serious at the beginning. The police charge caused enormous pressure and fear every single day. I was worried about my future, my studies ...
Peter R
Thank you to all the lawyers. Both Alexes are extremely professional and responsible. They provided professional judgments and sorted things out patiently. Many thanks to them! I recommend them!
Elton C
Ernest Chan has been my lawyer for the last two years, and has been incredible from start to finish. He’s knowledgeable, professional, and always took the time to explain things clearly. He genuinely cares, not just about the case, but about his clients. He’s a great lawyer and a great person. I’m so grateful for everything he’s done!
M Chalupka
I’m very grateful to Brightstone Legal for their professional and dedicated service. My lawyer, Ernest Chan, was extremely responsible and considerate. He took my future work requirements into account and successfully helped me achieve an outcome with no conviction, no final AVO, and no more bail. I highly recommend Brightstone to anyone seeking reliable and professional legal representation.
Rock L
I’m incredibly grateful to the team at Brightstone for their solid support during a recent criminal charge I faced. The outcome has exceeded my expectations. Brightstone Legal team guided me through every step of the process and underpinned my confidence that I needed. A special thank you to Mr. Alex Cao, Mr. Alex Zhao, and their dedicated team for their exceptional service.
Roy L
Alex and Sharon are highly professional, detail-oriented, and truly takes the time to understand the client’s perspective. He provides clear, practical, and well-considered legal advice based on deep expertise and experience. I genuinely felt supported and confident throughout the process. If you’re looking for a trustworthy and capable legal team, this firm is definitely a top choice.
Shaok L
Being involved in a legal case is not merely a challenging experience — it can be life-changing. Choosing the right legal team is not solely a matter of cost; it is, in many ways, a decision that can shape your future. Mr. Alex Cao and his team have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, drawing upon their extensive experience and expertise in criminal law.
Keyy
Excellent service from start to finish. Professional, responsive, and genuinely caring. Brightstone Legal made a stressful situation manageable. Highly recommend them for anyone needing reliable and knowledgeable legal support.
Liang F
I had an excellent experience with Brightstone Legal. From start to finish, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to helping me. They communicated clearly, provided sound legal advice, and always made me feel supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Brightstone Legal to anyone in need of reliable and trustworthy legal representation.
Jeffrey Q
This law firm was a lifesaver during an incredibly stressful time as I’m facing serious charges. Alex and his team help me and provide thoughtful recommendations for my legal matter. The whole process was easy throughout and professional. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of trustworthy legal help.
Fengrui T
When you encounter any problems in life and need help, just look for these two lawyers. They will definitely do their best to help us, especially with criminal issues. Alex Cao, Alex Zhao, and Cherry (I've faced serious charges in the past.）If you have any legal problems, just contact them, they are the best choice! PERFECT!
David
Thankfully, with the patient support and detailed investigation by Lawyer Cao and his team, the case finally concluded with me being acquitted and released without charges. This case dragged on for two years—it was mentally and emotionally draining. But thanks to Lawyer Cao and his team, who didn’t give up even after losing the first trial, I was eventually found not guilty at the final ...
Lyt
Brightstone Legal. Mr Alex Cao of Brightstone Legal and his team guided me through every steps of my case, they are experienced, effective and efficient. Delivered results beyond and above everyone’s expectations. I am really grateful to have the chance to hire him and received help from his team. I recommend this already highly reputable law firm to everyone!
XNN
I’m extremely grateful to Lawyer Cherry for helping my boyfriend achieve a very favorable outcome. Cherry and Alex Zhao were both very attentive, taking the time to clearly explain the process and provide us with detailed and professional legal advice. Their dedication made us feel confident that we had chosen the right lawyers and placed our trust in the right people. Thank you!
Venus C
I considered myself is very lucky to have Alex Cao as my lawyer and work with his team over the past several months. Alex Cao is excellent lawyer who is highly competent legal practitioner. He and his team showed great dedication, professionalism and compassion throughout my case. Huge appreciation to Alex Cao who spent a lot of time on my matter and successfully got the best possible outcome ...
Xuefeng L
I am truly very thankful to Brightstone’s Lawyer Alex Cao. Mr Cao and his team were extremely professional, not only in their legal knowledge but also in patiently answering all of our questions. They demonstrated great patience, approachability, and empathy throughout the process, and paid close attention to every detail. Finally we achieved the best possible outcome for our case.
Hannah H
First of all, I would like to thank Alex Cao from Brightstone Legal. My case isn’t an easy one, I was set up by my ex partner, it was stressful and heart broken. The amazing lawyer, Alex Cao went above and beyond to assist with the matter. He was professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer any questions I had. He took lot of efforts and finally managed to achieve best outcome!
Rachel Y
Extremely professional legal services — thank you Lawyer Alex Cao and his team. I was very fortunate to have found Alex Cao right at the moment I encountered difficulties. With his help, I was able to avoid many complicated problems and resolve a major crisis. Over the course, Lawyer Cao not only provided me with legal assistance, but also offered emotional support that helped me pull through.
Jason G
When I was facing difficulties and feeling overwhelmed, the team at Brightstone Legal provided me with immediate and professional assistance. From the receptionist to Criminal Lawyer Alex Cao patiently organising the key points of my case and providing precise legal analysis. They not only fought for my best interests but also helped me save 70% of my legal fees. I’m truly grateful ...
Elizabeth W
Sharon Yu was efficient, organised and kept it simple. She adapted quickly to an unfamiliar situation and she ensured, given unfamiliarity, to be well-prepared. She helped me get through a legal matter, cared and did a thorough job. Her assistants also. I recommend Sharon Yu and Brightsone Legal to any person needing legal assistance and advice.
Caitlin G
Alex Cao has demonstrated excellent professionalism and competence, second to none. Through his intelligence, dedication, skills, and in collaboration with Angela Cook, they've restored my life back in order.
Jason C
Compared several legal institutes, I am very glad I finally made this right choice. Thanks very much for Alex Cao's excellent service as my solicitor. He is so professional, nice and patient with a silver tongue and a very quick thinking under different situations. Highly recommend!
Alan
A huge thanks to Alex, He made such a thorough effort for my case giving me a great result at the end of my trial, Alex is very nice, patient and has a great attention to detail, I highly recommend anyone to seek legal advice with brightstone!!!
Tobias S
To Alex Zhao and Alex Cao, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your outstanding legal expertise and dedication. Your relentless efforts, attention to detail, and unwavering support have been instrumental in resolving my case successfully. Your professionalism and genuine concern for my well-being have left a lasting impact. Thank you for being exemplary legal advocates.
J
I was facing a legal situation that was causing me a lot of stress and uncertainty, and I am so grateful to have found Alex Cao. His team was professional, attentive, and genuinely caring about my situation. I wholeheartedly recommend Alex Cao to anyone in need of top-notch legal assistance. Their professionalism, knowledge, communication, and genuine care for their clients set them apart.
LIANG W
Brightstone legal team provides excellent and professional service for us and help us to achieve the best outcome. We really appreciate the help from Brightstone legal team especially Alex Cao. We will highly recommend to anyone if they need any legal help.
Iris K
Alex zhao and Alex cao are very professional and responsible, excellent analysis and handling of the case, and got the best result! The best lawyer I've ever seen in Sydney!
Tony
I am deeply grateful to Attorney Cao (Alex) and his team for their professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable representation. They helped me obtain a favorable court result and I am confident that justice has been served. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs legal assistance.
Jimmy L
I'm really appreciate Alex as well as Sharon who took over my case from a year ago. Not only have they developed effective strategies coping my court case, but they also helped me achieved unexpected result, which won't affect my visa and potential permanent residency, and I'm grateful to what they have put a lot effort into in the last year.
Humphrey B
It's an incredibly professional and efficient team that saved me from the very beginning. A big thank you to Alex Zhao and the entire team for their hard work and dedication.
Milos P
I am truly honored to have received help from Alex and his team. With their support, I was able to achieve the best possible outcome in the shortest time and lowest cost. Throughout the entire process, the team maintained highly efficient communication, patently and thoroughly explaining and analyzing every detail ...
Lei Z
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