As a highly experienced criminal defence lawyer in Auckland, Daniel Schellenberg provides clear advice, strong advocacy, and dedicated representation for clients locally and throughout New Zealand.

Expert Criminal Defence Lawyer in Auckland

AREAS OF PRACTICE

Strategic Representation by an Auckland Criminal Defence Lawyer

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Violence & Drug Offences

Experienced defence for allegations involving violence or controlled substances, with careful case analysis and strategic planning.

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Serious Criminal Charges

Representation in serious and complex criminal matters requiring strategic preparation and strong courtroom advocacy.

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Fraud & Regulatory Offences

Defence representation in financial, commercial, and regulatory matters requiring evidence review and legal strategy.

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Appeals & Bail Applications

Strategic advice and advocacy for appeals, bail applications, and sentencing matters across all court levels nationwide.

About Daniel Schellenberg

15+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Daniel Schellenberg is a specialist criminal defence barrister with extensive courtroom experience across a wide range of criminal matters.


He is committed to providing clear, practical advice and robust representation at every stage of the criminal justice process — from police investigation through to trial and sentencing.


Daniel appears regularly in the District Court and High Court, representing clients facing serious and complex charges. He approaches every case with preparation, discretion, and strategic focus.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Useful Tips & Advice

  • What does it mean to be "charged" with an offence?

    If you are charged with an offence it means you are facing an allegation that your actions or omissions constitute a breach of the criminal law.

  • Can I represent myself on court?

    Yes but this is not advisable. It is wise to instruct a competent lawyer who can represent you in Court. A lawyer will help you navigate through the legal process and make sure your rights and interests are protected.

  • When should I find myself a criminal defence lawyer?

    As soon as the police or other government agency want to speak to you or you have been charged with an offence. The sooner you receive legal advice the better. It is important to exercise your right to remain silent and to speak to a lawyer when being confronted by the police.

  • Do criminal records last forever?

    Yes, which is why instructing the right lawyer is critical. In New Zealand the Criminal Records (Clean Slate) Act 2004 will conceal certain criminal convictions if you meet the eligibility criteria. This does not apply when you are in a foreign country.

  • Do I need a criminal defence lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?

    Yes. Before you consider pleading guilty it is in your interest to instruct a lawyer. After receiving legal advice if you do decide to plead guilty, having the right lawyer by your side can make a huge difference when it comes to sentencing.

  • What should I do if I am arrested in Auckland?

    Exercise your right to silence and ask to speak to a lawyer immediately. Do not make a statement to the police until you have received legal advice.

  • Can you represent me in any court in New Zealand?

    Yes, while based in Auckland, Daniel represents clients in District and High Courts nationwide for serious criminal matters.

  • Do I really need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?

    Yes. An experienced lawyer can review the evidence to ensure the charge is correct and advocate for the lightest possible sentence or a discharge without conviction.

Highly Recommended

I can’t thank you enough Daniel for working with me throughout my case. Throughout the lengthy process you were extremely helpful, supportive and motivated. The situation put me under immense stress though you made me feel at ease throughout the trial process. I am so thankful I had you as my lawyer and got the outcome I wanted. Thank you once again.

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Clear Advice From an Auckland Criminal Lawyer

Facing a criminal charge can affect your freedom, reputation, work and family. Daniel Schellenberg Barrister provides clear advice and focused representation for people who need a criminal defence lawyer in Auckland. You will understand the allegations, the court process and the practical steps required to protect your position from the outset.



As an experienced criminal lawyer based in Auckland, Daniel assists with serious violence, murder and manslaughter, drug offences, sexual allegations, fraud, family violence, firearms charges, drink driving and traffic matters. Our work also covers urgent Police interviews, bail, sentencing, discharges without conviction, appeals and parole. If you are looking for the best criminal defense lawyer, you will receive advice grounded in New Zealand law and tailored to the facts of your case.



Support Through Every Stage of a Criminal Case

Why Choose Daniel Schellenberg Barrister?


Proper advice can change how a criminal matter is managed. Daniel Schellenberg Barrister can assist before a Police interview, after an arrest, during a search or when bail is needed. As a criminal defence lawyer for Auckland clients, Daniel reviews how evidence was obtained, identifies weaknesses in the prosecution case and advises you before any statement, plea or court decision is made.



Representation continues through case review, pre-trial applications, judge-alone hearings, jury trials and sentencing. The practice also assists with discharge without conviction applications, limited licences, conviction and sentence appeals, parole hearings and recall matters. People looking for criminal defence lawyers across Auckland and throughout New Zealand can contact the team for serious or lower-level charges. Contact Daniel Schellenberg Barrister to arrange a confidential consultation and discuss the next step in your case.


Exclusive criminal defence experience

Daniel has practised criminal law since 2010, giving Auckland clients guidance shaped by extensive trial, sentencing and appeal work.

Private and Legal Aid representation

 Eligible clients can access approved Legal Aid services, while private clients receive clear information about the work their case requires.

Clear, direct advice

Your criminal defence lawyer will explain the evidence, available options, likely process and immediate priorities without legal jargon or vague promises.

Demonstrated case experience

People comparing options for the best criminal lawyer in Auckland can review published cases involving acquittals, dismissals, reduced charges and sentencing outcomes.

Preparation for serious cases

Daniel handles complex jury trials, serious criminal charges and higher-court appeals, supported by a team of Auckland criminal lawyers.

Respectful client care

 Daniel Schellenberg Barrister works without judgement and keeps communication practical during a stressful time.