Best Seattle, WA Criminal Defense Lawyers

Seattle criminal defense lawyers protect your rights when charges put your freedom and future on the line. Whether you're facing a DUI, assault, theft, or felony, the consequences are serious—jail time, fines, and a record that doesn't go away. Browse our reviewed attorneys to find experienced defense counsel in King County.

List of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Seattle, Washington

Screenshot of the Will & Will, PLLC Website
701 5th Ave #3510, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Will & Will is a Seattle criminal defense law firm run by husband-and-wife attorneys Court and Michelle Will. The team brings over 45 years of combined legal experience to serious felony cases, including domestic violence, sex crimes, and murder charges. They also handle civil protection orders for both petitioners and respondents.

Will & Will limits their caseload intentionally. This gives each client more personal attention and better case preparation. Their collaborative approach means two experienced attorneys review every case from multiple angles. The firm has earned positive reviews from clients who appreciate its responsive communication and courtroom success. They offer initial case evaluations at no charge.

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Screenshot of the DUI Heroes Website
3400 188th St SW #420, Lynnwood, WA 98037, USA

DUI Heroes is a Lynnwood DUI defense firm that handles drunk driving cases exclusively. The team includes two former prosecutors who bring insider knowledge of how the state builds its cases. Their focused approach has produced an average 95% rate of reductions or dismissals on first offenses.

Founding attorney Jonathan Dichter wrote a DUI survival guide and serves as faculty for the National College for DUI Defense. All attorneys at the firm have completed the NHTSA Field Sobriety Testing course. DUI Heroes represents clients in Snohomish and King Counties, handling everything from first-time arrests to felony DUI charges. Military personnel and first responders receive discounted services. Case evaluations are complimentary.

Screenshot of the Newton & Hall Attorneys at Law PLLC Website

Newton & Hall are criminal defense attorneys in Kent serving the greater Seattle-Tacoma area since 2013. Lead attorney Keith Hall holds Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer recognition from the American Society of Legal Advocates. The firm has received multiple Client Satisfaction awards from the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys.

Their team handles both misdemeanor and felony charges across King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties. Practice areas include sex crimes, DUI defense, domestic violence, and drug charges. The attorneys regularly appear in state and federal courts throughout Washington. Newton & Hall provides initial consultations without charge and maintains close communication throughout each case.

Screenshot of the Rhodes Legal Group, PLLC Website
918 S Horton St #901, Seattle, WA 98134, USA

Rhodes Legal Group is a Seattle law firm handling business law, civil protection orders, and criminal defense matters. The attorneys bring more than 75 years of combined experience to administrative and criminal investigations. They accept a limited number of clients to ensure thorough case preparation.

The firm represents people facing civil protection order hearings on either side. Their criminal defense practice covers Washington State administrative law matters and serious criminal charges. Rhodes Legal Group describes itself as having a direct, no-nonsense approach. They schedule paid consultations to discuss legal situations and potential strategies.

Screenshot of the Black & Askerov, PLLC Website
705 2nd Ave #1111, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Black & Askerov is a Seattle criminal defense firm that focuses exclusively on criminal cases. The attorneys have defended clients for over 20 years in state, federal, and appellate courts throughout Washington. Their practice covers federal crimes, white-collar defense, drug offenses, homicides, and sex crimes.

Partners Chris Black and Tim Askerov have built a reputation among prosecutors and judges for thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy. The firm handles pre-charge investigations, plea negotiations, and trial work. They represent clients across King County, Pierce County, Snohomish County, and Spokane County. Initial consultations are always provided at no cost.

Screenshot of the Powers Law Group PLLC Website
309 Pine St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, USA

Powers Law Group provides criminal defense in Skagit County and the surrounding areas. The firm handles DUI charges, domestic violence cases, assault allegations, and driving offenses. They accept a limited number of clients to maintain close contact and dedicate proper time to each case.

The attorneys prepare every case as if it will go to trial. They also assist clients with post-conviction matters, including record expungement and firearm rights restoration. Powers Law Group represents people in Island, Snohomish, and Whatcom Counties. Their Mount Vernon office provides consultations to discuss case options and potential outcomes.

Screenshot of the Lewis & Laws, PLLC Website
1818 Westlake Ave N # 228, Seattle, WA 98109, USA

Lewis & Laws is a Seattle defense law firm with over 45 years of combined attorney experience. The team handles hundreds of criminal cases and DMV hearings each year. Their attorneys are available around the clock for urgent legal matters.

The firm treats every case with equal importance. They handle DUI charges, obstruction of justice, and other criminal allegations throughout Washington State courts. Lewis & Laws takes a collaborative approach, combining aggressive advocacy with thorough case preparation. Clients receive regular updates and honest assessments of their legal options.

Screenshot of the Beckwith Criminal Law Website
101 Yesler Wy #603, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Beckwith Criminal Law is a Seattle firm founded by former prosecutor Cristine Beckwith in 2007. She began her career as a Pierce County Deputy Prosecutor in 2004 before switching to defense work. The firm handles criminal defense, DUI, domestic violence, and juvenile cases throughout King, Pierce, Thurston, and Kitsap Counties.

Beckwith Law maintains offices in both Seattle and Tacoma. Case consultations are available seven days a week, including after hours. The firm uses flat-fee pricing for most cases.

Screenshot of the Milios Defense Website
1325 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Milios Defense is a Seattle DUI law firm led by Tim Milios, who has focused on drunk driving defense since 1996. A University of Arizona Law graduate, he started as a prosecutor before dedicating his practice to defending the accused. He is a member of the National College for DUI Defense.

The firm handles DUI and criminal traffic matters throughout Washington State. Milios Defense is available 24/7 and offers initial consultations without charge. The office represents clients in Seattle Municipal Court and other jurisdictions across the Puget Sound region.

Screenshot of the Thorley Defense Law Website
155 NE 100th St Ste. 210, Seattle, WA 98125, USA

Thorley Defense Law is a Seattle firm led by Rebecca Thorley, an attorney with training from a leading London criminal defense practice. The firm handles criminal defense, immigration matters, and personal injury cases. Rebecca represents clients from both Washington State and England/Wales.

As an immigrant herself, Rebecca brings personal insight to immigration law. Her criminal defense work includes serious allegations requiring private investigation. The firm provides affordable fees and will travel to meet client needs.

Screenshot of the Stewart MacNichols Harmell Inc PS Website
655 W Smith St, Suite 210, Kent, WA 98032, USA

Stewart MacNichols Harmell is a Kent criminal defense firm with nearly 100 five-star reviews across Google, Avvo, and other platforms. The attorneys represent clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges in Pierce and King County courts.

The firm handles DUI cases, domestic violence allegations, sex crimes, and drug charges. Their attorneys have secured numerous dismissals, reductions, and trial victories. Initial case evaluations are provided at no charge.

Screenshot of the Glisson & Morris Website
104 Tremont St Suite 240, Port Orchard, WA 98366, USA

Glisson Legal is a Kitsap County criminal defense firm in Port Orchard. Attorney Stan Glisson brings over 20 years of trial experience to DUI, drug crimes, and theft cases. The firm represents clients throughout Western Washington with affordable and transparent pricing.

Glisson Legal provides honest communication about case prospects. Their attorney knows local judges and opposing counsel, which helps in negotiations and trial preparation. Consultations are confidential and provided at no cost.

Screenshot of the Skellenger Bender, PS Website
520 Pike St Unit 1001, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Skellenger Bender is a Seattle law firm established in 1928. The firm provides services in family law, government investigations, criminal law, and estate planning. Ten attorneys have been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America.

Their criminal practice handles government investigations and related legal matters. The firm also offers mediation, adoption services, and LGBTQ+ legal assistance. Skellenger Bender serves individuals and families across the Seattle area.

Screenshot of the Sheed Law Offices, PLLC Website
1833 N 105th St suite 101, Seattle, WA 98133, USA

Sheed Law Offices provides criminal defense representation in Seattle. Their attorneys include former public defenders with courtroom experience across Washington. The firm handles theft charges, traffic offenses, assault cases, and domestic violence allegations.

Sheed Law assists clients from investigation through trial. They examine evidence, assemble defenses, and advocate in court. Consultations help clients understand their options.

Screenshot of the The Marshall Defense Firm Website
1001 4th Ave #4400, Seattle, WA 98154, USA

Marshall & Saunders is a Seattle firm that focuses on sex crime defense, child abuse allegations, and domestic violence cases. The attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience and have conducted more than 250 criminal trials. They have successfully defended over 1,000 clients since 1997.

The firm handles cases from investigation through trial in state and federal courts. Their attorneys represent clients throughout King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Kitsap Counties. Marshall & Saunders provides consultations to discuss defense strategies.

Screenshot of the Burke Brown Attorneys PLLC Website
506 2nd Ave Suite 1400, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Burke Brown Attorneys represents clients facing criminal charges, protection orders, and CPS investigations in Seattle and the Eastside. The firm brings 40 years of combined experience to juvenile offenses, domestic violence cases, and education discipline matters.

Their attorneys help clients understand legal options and potential outcomes. Burke Brown handles cases from initial charges through resolution. Consultations help families navigate challenging situations.

Screenshot of the Law Offices of Geoffrey Burg, LLC Website
720 3rd Ave #2015A, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Geoffrey Burg has practiced criminal defense in Seattle since 1994. The firm handles DUI, domestic violence, assault, theft, and hit-and-run charges. Burg has been recognized repeatedly as a Super Lawyer and helped shape Washington DUI legislation.

Partner Jason Lantz brings additional trial experience to the firm. They offer initial consultations at no charge and are available around the clock for urgent matters. The attorneys represent clients in King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties.

Screenshot of the Stein, Lotzkar & Starr, P.S. Website
2840 Northup Way # 140, Bellevue, WA 98004, USA

Stein, Lotzkar & Starr is a Bellevue criminal defense firm serving clients since 2006. The team includes former prosecutors and members of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Their attorneys share over 100 years of combined experience.

The firm handles DUI, traffic violations, assault, domestic violence, and serious felonies. They represent clients at all court levels, including the Washington Supreme Court. Consultations are available at no cost.

Screenshot of the Law Firm of David N Jolly Website
218 W Champion St, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA

David N. Jolly's firm provides DUI defense in Northwest Washington from offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon. The attorneys have represented thousands of clients charged with drunk driving across Skagit, Snohomish, Island, and Whatcom Counties. They offer free DUI survival guides for each county.

The firm provides flexible payment plans and keeps fees reasonable. Complimentary consultations are available to discuss case options.

Screenshot of the Law office of Andrew Huff Website
1700 7th Ave #2100, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Andrew Huff is a Seattle traffic and criminal defense attorney. A former prosecutor and judge pro tem, he handles DUI, assault, drug charges, and traffic violations. His experience on both sides of criminal cases provides insight into prosecution strategies.

Huff returns calls and emails promptly while maintaining quality representation. He offers case evaluations to explain legal options.

Screenshot of the SQ Attorneys Website
10740 Meridian Ave N #107, Seattle, WA 98133, USA

SQ Attorneys is a Seattle criminal defense firm that has served over 5,000 clients since 2008. The partnership handles DUI, domestic violence, and personal injury cases throughout Western Washington. They limit their caseload to provide personal attention to each client.

The firm represents clients in Seattle and Redmond courts. Consultations help clients understand their legal options.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Jennifer Horwitz Website
2317 NW Market St, Suite A, Seattle, WA 98107, USA

Jennifer Horwitz is a Seattle criminal defense attorney with 25 years of experience. A Harvard Law graduate, she handles domestic violence, federal crimes, sex offenses, and juvenile matters. She has been recognized as a Super Lawyer and Forbes Best Lawyer.

Jennifer personally handles every case without delegation. She also assists with protection orders and clemency petitions.

Screenshot of the The Meryhew Law Group, PLLC Website
200 Broadway #301, Seattle, WA 98122, USA

Brad Meryhew leads a Seattle sex crimes defense practice with over 18 years of experience. He has chaired the Washington Sex Offender Policy Board since 2020 and helped reform sex offender registration laws. The firm now focuses primarily on child pornography and online sting cases.

Meryhew has presented at over 80 legal education seminars on sex offense defense.

Screenshot of the Westlake Law PLLC Website
1836 Westlake Ave Suite 302, Seattle, WA 98109, USA

Westlake Law is a Seattle firm handling immigration, criminal defense, and personal injury matters. Attorney Octavian Jumanca immigrated to the US as a child and now helps clients navigate complex legal situations. The firm also assists small businesses with incorporation and contracts.

Criminal defense services include DUI and drug charges, which can affect immigration status.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Shira J. Stefanik Website
119 1st Ave S Ste 500, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Shira Stefanik is a Seattle criminal defense attorney who opened her practice in 2010. She handles DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, and asset forfeiture cases throughout King County. Previously recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star, she has secured numerous dismissals and reductions.

The firm offers case evaluations without charge to discuss defense options.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Steve Graham Website
1312 N Monroe St #140, Spokane, WA, USA

Steve Graham is a Spokane criminal defense attorney handling DUI, assault, and drug charges across Eastern Washington. A former prosecutor, he has tried over 200 cases. The firm provides initial consultations at no cost.

Screenshot of the Platt, Thompson and Buescher, Attorneys at Law Website

Platt, Thompson, and Buescher have handled criminal defense on Whidbey Island and in Seattle since 1990. The attorneys bring over 80 years of combined experience. Craig Platt has been called a "magician" for his courtroom success in serious felony cases.

Screenshot of the Blair & Kim, PLLC Website
215 NE 40th St #C-3, Seattle, WA 98105

Blair & Kim provide criminal defense and family law services in Seattle with 40 years of combined experience. Mark Blair handles criminal cases while Sara Kim focuses on divorce and custody matters. The firm also assists with protection orders.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Amy Muth, PLLC Website
1000 Second Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104

Muth Atwood is a Seattle firm that focuses on sex crime defense for adults and juveniles. Amy Muth is a past president of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and a featured speaker at national sex offense conferences. The firm also handles registration removal petitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

A criminal defense lawyer protects your rights and represents you against criminal charges filed by the government. They investigate the facts of your case, challenge the prosecution's evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present your defense at trial if necessary.

In Washington State, criminal charges range from misdemeanors heard in Seattle Municipal Court to felonies prosecuted in King County Superior Court. Your attorney handles everything from arraignment through sentencing, including filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and negotiating plea agreements when appropriate.

How much do criminal defense attorneys in Seattle charge?

Most criminal defense lawyers charge either a flat fee or an hourly rate, depending on the complexity of your case. Simple misdemeanors like DUI or theft may cost $2,500 to $7,500 as a flat fee. Felony cases typically range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more.

Hourly rates for experienced attorneys in the Seattle area generally run between $250 and $500 per hour. During your consultation, ask for a written fee agreement that explains exactly what services are included and what costs extra, such as expert witnesses or private investigators.

Should I talk to the police without a lawyer present?

No. Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Under the Fifth Amendment and Washington State law, you cannot be penalized for refusing to answer questions without legal counsel.

Anything you say to the police can be used against you in court, even statements you believe are harmless or explanatory. Politely but firmly state: "I am invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak with a lawyer." Then stop talking until your attorney arrives.

What's the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Washington?

Misdemeanors carry maximum penalties of up to 364 days in jail and $5,000 in fines under RCW 9A.20.021. Common examples include simple assault, petty theft, and first-offense DUI.

Felonies are more serious crimes punishable by more than one year in state prison. Washington classifies felonies into three categories:

  • Class A felonies: Up to life in prison and $50,000 in fines (murder, rape)
  • Class B felonies: Up to 10 years and $20,000 in fines (assault with a deadly weapon, burglary)
  • Class C felonies: Up to 5 years and $10,000 in fines (theft over $5,000, drug possession with intent)

What happens after I'm arrested in Seattle?

After arrest, you'll be booked at the King County Jail, which includes fingerprinting and photographing. Within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays), you must appear before a judge for a preliminary hearing under Washington Criminal Rule 3.2.

At this hearing, the judge determines probable cause and sets bail. You'll receive formal notice of the charges and enter an initial plea. Having an attorney present at this stage helps ensure your bail is reasonable and that you understand your options moving forward.

Can a criminal defense lawyer get my charges dropped or reduced?

Yes, in many cases. Attorneys get charges dismissed by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case, such as unlawful searches, unreliable witnesses, or insufficient evidence. They may also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges to lesser offenses.

Common outcomes include reducing a felony to a misdemeanor, securing a deferred prosecution agreement, or getting charges dismissed entirely through pretrial motions. Your attorney's ability to achieve these results depends on the specific facts of your case and the strength of the evidence against you.

How do I compare criminal defense lawyers before hiring one?

Focus on three key factors: relevant experience, communication style, and track record with cases similar to yours.

Ask each attorney these questions during consultations:

  • How many cases like mine have you handled in King County courts?
  • What percentage of your practice is criminal defense?
  • Will you personally handle my case or assign it to an associate?
  • How quickly do you respond to client calls and emails?
  • What do you see as the strengths and weaknesses of my case?

Pay attention to how clearly they explain legal concepts and whether they give you realistic expectations rather than guaranteed outcomes.

What rights do I have if I'm under investigation but not yet charged?

You have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to refuse consent to searches. Police cannot search your home, car, or person without a warrant, your consent, or an exception like exigent circumstances.

If detectives contact you for questioning, you're not required to speak with them. Hiring a lawyer before charges are filed allows your attorney to communicate with investigators on your behalf, potentially preventing charges altogether or limiting their scope.

How long does a criminal case take to resolve?

Misdemeanor cases in Seattle Municipal Court typically resolve within 2 to 6 months. Felony cases in King County Superior Court often take 6 months to over a year, depending on complexity.

Under Washington's speedy trial rules (CrR 3.3), the state must bring you to trial within 60 days if you're in custody or 90 days if you're released. However, these deadlines can be extended for various reasons, including defense requests for more preparation time.

What's the difference between a public defender and a private attorney?

Public defenders are experienced attorneys provided free of charge if you can't afford private representation. They handle high caseloads, which limits the time they can spend on each case.

Private attorneys typically have more time to dedicate to investigation, client communication, and case preparation. They may also have more resources for expert witnesses and private investigators. The best choice depends on the complexity of your case and your financial situation.

Can I get my criminal record expunged in Washington?

Washington law allows certain convictions to be vacated under RCW 9.94A.640 (felonies) and RCW 9.96.060 (misdemeanors). Once vacated, you can legally state you were never convicted of that crime on most job applications.

Eligibility depends on the type of offense, time since completing your sentence, and your subsequent criminal history. Violent offenses, sex crimes, and DUIs generally cannot be vacated. An attorney can review your record and determine which convictions may qualify for expungement.

When should I hire a criminal defense lawyer?

Hire an attorney as soon as you learn you're under investigation or immediately after arrest. Early involvement gives your lawyer time to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and potentially influence charging decisions before formal charges are filed.

Waiting until your court date limits your attorney's options and preparation time. Many successful defenses depend on preserving evidence and witness testimony that can disappear or fade with time.