Lester Cordwell

Criminal defence lawyer

Lester is a specialist criminal defence lawyer who focuses on serious jury trials and appeals. He is a formidable and skilful court advocate, tactically astute and is known for his passionate pursuit of justice in the most difficult and weighty of cases.

With 30 years of criminal experience, Lester has a reputation as an outstanding trial lawyer who has represented defendants in hundreds of jury trials and serious appeals throughout New Zealand. Lester is well-known for his thorough preparation and good judgement. He is considered a tenacious and dedicated defence lawyer who is known for his skilful cross examination and powerful closing addresses.

He is dedicated to helping alleviate the stress associated with negotiating the criminal justice system. That means he always provides clients with clear, sound and timely advice.

Lester has been lead counsel and has had enormous success in a wide spectrum of trials involving allegations of murder, manslaughter, serious sexual offences, violence, fraud and major drug offending.

Lester has a strong appellate practice arguing serious miscarriages of justice in the Court of Appeal. He is frequently contacted by those convicted of serious crimes (or their family/whanau) and instructed to review their case to determine if grounds exist for an appeal. He has had many convictions overturned after arguing successful appeals.