Ernest Chan

Special Counsel

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.

“ Our team of experienced defence lawyers is committed to providing honest, fair, and professional legal services, protecting your rights, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. ”

Ernest’s 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

Member of the Senior Advocates Group, handling complex, high-profile criminal matters

Senior Police Prosecutor, NSW Police Force, specialising in serious drug and aggravated break and enter offences

Participation in Legal Aid NSW Criminal Law Panel, Back Up Duty Scheme, Pro Bono Scheme, and NSW Law Society Mentoring Program

Admissions

Supreme Court of New South Wales

Education

Bachelor of Media, Macquarie University
Bachelor of Laws, Macquarie University

Completed Advanced Advocacy Course, Prosecutor Team Leader Course, and Specialist Domestic Violence Prosecutor Course