- Position:
- Assistant Victorian Government Solicitor
- Qualification:
- LLB, BA
- Area of law:
- Policing and emergency management, Interpretation and development of legislation, Administrative decision making and review
Carol Orfanos is a senior legal leader with deep expertise in criminal law, governance, and public sector advisory. Since joining the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office (VGSO) in 2018, Carol has led the Police Advisory Branch—a specialist team of approximately 50 lawyers and support staff dedicated to providing strategic legal advice to Victoria Police on complex and high-profile matters. Her team’s work spans public interest immunity, administrative law, statutory interpretation, police powers, and criminal law and procedure.
Carol is widely regarded as a trusted adviser in sensitive, high-stakes litigation and regularly oversees representation in significant appellate proceedings involving complex criminal law issues.
Admitted to practice in 1994, Carol began her career at the Office of Public Prosecutions, managing serious criminal cases including homicides, sexual offences, and major drug prosecutions. She later broadened her expertise as a Partner in a boutique law firm, advising on criminal law, estates, family law, and commercial matters.
Before VGSO, Carol held senior roles within Victoria Police, including Deputy Director of the Legal Services Department, where she managed a team of 55 lawyers and led advice on complex criminal investigations involving fraud, perjury, and misconduct in public office. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Applied Management (Police and Emergency Services) from the Australian Institute of Police Management. Carol brings a proven track record of leadership, strategic insight, and deep expertise in criminal law and public sector governance.
Phone: 03 9063 7713
Mobile: 0400 369 238
Email: carol.orfanos@vgso.vic.gov.au
LinkedIn: Carol Orfanos
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