Best Seattle, WA Criminal Defense Lawyers

When facing criminal charges in Seattle, having a skilled defense attorney can change your future. Our researched list showcases defense lawyers with proven results in Washington courts. Read about these legal advocates who handle everything from misdemeanors to serious felony cases.

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 husband-wife criminal defense and personal injury team. Court and Michelle Will bring over 35 years of combined legal experience to every case. Michelle worked as a former prosecutor, giving them unique insight into both sides of criminal cases. They handle DUI, domestic violence, and car accident cases. The firm keeps a manageable caseload to provide personal attention. Free initial consultations available for all potential clients.

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

DUI Heroes delivers aggressive DUI defense representation in Lynnwood, Washington, and surrounding Snohomish and King Counties. The firm maintains a 90% success rate for case dismissals and reductions with attorneys, including former prosecutors. They provide free consultations, expert witness support, and comprehensive legal strategies. Extensive courtroom experience and prosecutor insights give clients strong advocacy when facing DUI charges throughout the greater Seattle area.

more
Screenshot of the Newton & Hall Attorneys at Law PLLC Website

Newton & Hall provides aggressive criminal defense throughout Kent and Greater Seattle. Keith Hall earned recognition as a Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer in the United States. They handle DUI, domestic violence, sex crimes, and drug charges. The firm serves King, Pierce, Thurston, Kitsap, and Snohomish counties. Free consultations available. Their attorneys are respected by prosecutors and judges statewide.

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

Rhodes Legal Group handles Civil Protection Orders and Business Law throughout Seattle. Their attorneys bring over 75 years of combined experience. They serve clients in Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland. The firm specializes in Washington State Administrative Law matters. Known for their strategic, no-nonsense approach to complex legal issues.

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

Black & Askerov is a leading criminal defense law firm in Seattle with 30+ years of combined experience. They defend clients against federal crimes, drug offenses, and violent charges throughout Washington. The Seattle attorneys develop personalized legal strategies and offer free consultations. Their commitment to protecting rights and fighting for justice makes them a trusted choice for criminal defense.

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

Powers Law Group defends clients facing criminal charges in Mount Vernon, Washington. Attorney Jason Powers brings over 23 years of experience, including a former prosecutor background in Skagit County. The boutique firm accepts limited clients for personalized attention. Services include DUI defense, assault cases, domestic violence, and firearm rights restoration. The firm serves Skagit, Island, Whatcom, and Snohomish counties. Clients praise Jason's unique prosecutor perspective and aggressive defense strategies. Free consultations available.

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

Lewis & Laws is a Seattle criminal defense firm with over 45 years of courtroom experience. Their former prosecutors handle DUI, drug crimes, and domestic violence cases. Each client works with two dedicated attorneys who provide unique defense perspectives. The firm gives equal attention to every case regardless of its nature.

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

Beckwith Criminal Law is a Seattle criminal defense firm achieving 95% charge reduction or dismissal rates. Founded by former prosecutor Cristine Beckwith, the firm specializes in DUI, domestic violence, and juvenile cases. Rated 10/10 by Avvo with an A+ BBB rating. Available 7 days a week for free consultations across King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, and Kitsap counties. The firm serves multiple Washington counties with proven results.

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

Milios Defense handles DUI and criminal defense cases throughout Seattle and Washington state. Their attorneys bring 25+ years of experience successfully defending DUI charges. The firm provides 24/7 availability and free consultations. They offer complete legal support from arrest through potential record expungement. Milios is recognized for their DUI defense expertise in Washington.

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

Thorley Defense Law is a Seattle legal firm specializing in criminal defense, immigration, and personal injury cases. Rebecca Thorley brings unique US-UK legal system experience to each client. She handles serious crimes, provides immigration assistance, and delivers dedicated injury representation. The firm offers personalized attention and responsive service.

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

Stewart MacNichols Harmell Inc. P.S. delivers top-rated criminal defense in Kent, Washington. They maintain nearly 100 perfect 5-star reviews from clients. The firm handles misdemeanor and felony cases across Pierce and King Counties. Their experienced attorneys focus on case dismissals, charge reductions, and trial victories. Washington state licensed with proven defense strategies.

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

Glisson & Morris is a Port Orchard law firm focusing on criminal defense and personal injury cases. Their attorneys bring over 45 years of combined experience to DUI cases and accident claims. The firm serves Western Washington clients with free consultations and personalized representation to achieve favorable outcomes.

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

Skellenger Bender is a Seattle law firm providing comprehensive legal services since 1928. Their practice areas include adoption, assisted reproduction, and government investigations. The firm also handles arbitration, mediation, trusts, estates, and LGBTQ+ legal matters. Professional ethics and discipline cases round out their expertise. Best Lawyers® recognizes its attorneys for excellence. They donate hundreds of pro bono hours annually, supporting social justice initiatives.

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

Sheed Law Offices is a Seattle criminal defense firm specializing in DUI, traffic crimes, assault, and domestic violence cases. Their attorneys are former public defenders who deliver personalized defense strategies. The firm offers free consultations and maintains a strong track record of protecting client rights.

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

The Marshall Defense Firm specializes exclusively in defending sex crime allegations, child abuse, and domestic violence cases since 1997. No Northwest law firm matches their experience in these sensitive criminal matters. The firm handles criminal, civil, and CPS proceedings with deep expertise in psychology and medicine. They defend internet sting operations and Title IX cases across Washington state courts.

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

Burke Brown Attorneys PLLC provides specialized defense counsel in Seattle. With nearly 40 years of combined experience, they handle criminal defense, domestic violence, protection orders, and juvenile cases. Courts and prosecutors respect their high success rates. They offer tailored fee structures and selective case acceptance to protect clients' futures.

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

Burg Criminal Defense represents clients throughout Seattle and the Puget Sound region. With over 40 years of combined experience, they've resolved more than 1,000 cases and conducted over 100 jury trials. The firm handles DUI, domestic violence, and theft charges. Their attorneys earned Super Lawyers recognition and maintain a 10/10 AVVO rating. They provide experienced representation for a wide range of criminal offenses.

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

Stein, Lotzkar & Starr have provided Bellevue criminal defense services since 2006. The team includes former prosecutors and members of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. With over 100 years of combined experience, they've won cases at all court levels, including the Washington Supreme Court. They handle DUIs, traffic violations, and serious felonies throughout King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties. Free consultations help clients understand their options before making decisions.

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

The Law Firm of David N. Jolly specializes in DUI defense throughout Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, and Island Counties. With offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, they offer free consultations and complementary DUI books. David Jolly brings 3 decades of experience and has successfully handled thousands of cases. The firm also handles criminal defense and traffic infractions with flexible payment plans.

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

The Law Office of Andrew Charles Huff focuses on traffic, DUI, and criminal defense in Seattle. Andrew Huff brings unique insights as a former prosecutor and judge pro tem. He handles theft, drug offenses, and domestic violence cases throughout Washington. The Seattle office provides aggressive, experienced representation with 24/7 availability for free consultations.

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

SQ Attorneys serves clients from Seattle and Redmond offices across Washington state. Since 2008, they've represented over 5,000 clients with a combined 50+ years of practice experience. Attorneys Greg Schwesinger and Saad Qadri handle DUI, domestic violence, and personal injury cases. They provide personalized attention to each case and offer free consultations to discuss legal needs.

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

Jennifer Horwitz Law offers specialized criminal defense in Seattle with 25 years of experience. The Harvard Law graduate Jennifer handles domestic violence, protection orders, and federal crimes. She provides personal representation throughout every case stage. The practice includes juvenile matters and clemency petitions. Her work with the Seattle Clemency Project demonstrates her expertise.

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

Brad Meryhew defends people accused of sex crimes in Seattle and Tacoma. Since 2007, his firm has focused solely on these complex cases in state and federal courts. As chairman of the Washington Sex Offender Policy Board, he's helped change laws to protect juveniles. Meryhew has taught over 80 legal seminars and achieved numerous trial victories. Free consultations for those facing serious allegations.

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

Westlake Law PLLC serves downtown Seattle with personalized legal services. Attorney Octavian handles immigration, criminal defense, and personal injury cases with years of experience. The firm also assists small businesses with legal needs. Each client receives careful attention to their complex cases. Free consultations available.

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

Law Office of Shira J. Stefanik is a Seattle criminal defense practice located in The Maynard Building. Shira Stefanik defends clients facing DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, and serious felonies. She's known for aggressive trial tactics and fighting for client rights in Washington state courts. The practice offers free consultations to discuss criminal charges and potential defense strategies.

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

This Coupeville law firm delivers aggressive criminal defense, family law, and personal injury representation across Whidbey Island and Seattle. Craig Platt, known as a "magician" for improbable acquittals, leads the Super Lawyers-rated team alongside tenacious litigator Mimi Buescher and top post-conviction relief attorney Brent Thompson. Their 80+ years of combined experience gets referrals from other lawyers who recognize their courtroom success. They handle DUI, domestic violence, divorce, and accident cases on a contingency basis.

more
Screenshot of the Vindicate Criminal Law Group Website
1604 Hewitt Ave Suite 510, Everett, WA 98201, USA

Vindicate Criminal Law Group provides Washington criminal defense with over 50 years of combined experience. They handle serious charges, including sex offenses, domestic violence, and DUI cases. The firm has secured dismissals and reduced charges for clients. Offices in Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, and Everett. Free consultations available for criminal defense throughout Washington State.

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

Blair & Kim is a Seattle and Bellevue law firm specializing in criminal defense, family law, and personal injury. Their attorneys bring over 40 years of combined experience to cases ranging from DUI to divorce and child custody. They serve King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties with free consultations. The firm balances collaborative resolution approaches with strong courtroom advocacy when needed.

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

Muth Atwood is a Seattle criminal defense firm focusing on sex crimes, internet sting operations, and juvenile court matters. Attorneys Amy Muth and Jennifer Atwood lead a team with extensive experience in Washington sexual misconduct cases. They offer free consultations and have secured numerous charge reductions and dismissals.

more

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Arrested in Seattle?

Take these critical first steps to protect your rights:

  • Exercise your right to remain silent
  • Ask for a lawyer before any police questioning
  • Don't discuss your case with anyone but your attorney
  • Write down everything you remember about the arrest
  • Keep all paperwork related to your case

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Seattle?

Defense costs vary by case complexity:

Case TypeTypical Fee Range
Misdemeanors$2,500-$8,000
Non-violent Felonies$5,000-$15,000
Serious Felonies$15,000-$50,000+

What Makes Washington State Criminal Laws Different?

Key aspects of Washington's legal system:

  • Three-strikes law for serious offenses
  • Legal cannabis possession with restrictions
  • Strict DUI penalties and enforcement
  • Alternative sentencing programs available
  • Expungement options for certain crimes

How Do Seattle Courts Handle Different Criminal Charges?

Understanding case classification:

  • Simple misdemeanors: Municipal Court
  • Gross misdemeanors: District Court
  • Felonies: Superior Court
  • Federal crimes: U.S. District Court
  • Juvenile cases: Special youth division

What Defense Strategies Work Best in Washington Courts?

Common effective approaches include:

  • Constitutional rights violations challenges
  • Evidence suppression motions
  • Witness credibility examination
  • Scientific evidence analysis
  • Alternative sentencing negotiations

How Long Do Criminal Cases Take in Seattle?

Typical timelines by case type:

  • Misdemeanors: 3-6 months
  • DUI cases: 6-12 months
  • Felonies: 8-18 months
  • Complex cases: 12-24+ months

What Rights Do You Have When Questioned by Police?

Know these essential rights:

  • Right to remain silent
  • Right to an attorney
  • Right to stop questioning at any time
  • Right to refuse searches without warrant
  • Right to know why you're being detained

How Can a Criminal Record Impact Your Future in Washington?

A conviction may affect:

  • Job opportunities and licensing
  • Housing applications
  • Educational opportunities
  • Immigration status
  • Firearm ownership rights

What are Washington's Expungement Options?

Clearing your record depends on:

  • Type of offense committed
  • Time since conviction
  • Completion of all sentences
  • No new criminal charges
  • Payment of all fines and restitution

How Can You Support a Strong Defense Case?

Help your attorney by:

  • Gathering witness contact information
  • Preserving relevant evidence
  • Maintaining a detailed timeline
  • Following all court requirements
  • Staying off social media

How Does the Bail Process Work in Seattle Courts?

Understanding bail procedures:

  • Bail hearings within 24-48 hours of arrest
  • Judges consider flight risk and community safety
  • Multiple payment options available
  • Bail bondsmen charge 10-15% non-refundable fee
  • Electronic monitoring as potential alternative

What Happens During a Court Appearance?

Key stages of court proceedings:

StageWhat To Expect
ArraignmentCharges read, plea entered
Pre-trialEvidence review, motion hearings
TrialWitness testimony, evidence presentation

Should You Accept a Plea Bargain?

Consider these factors:

  • Strength of evidence against you
  • Potential sentence reduction
  • Impact on your criminal record
  • Collateral consequences
  • Time and stress of trial

What Makes a Strong Defense Team?

Key components include:

  • Private investigators gathering evidence
  • Expert witnesses for testimony
  • Forensic specialists analyzing evidence
  • Paralegals handling documentation
  • Mental health professionals for evaluations

How Do Drug Courts Work in King County?

Alternative program features:

  • Treatment instead of jail time
  • Regular court check-ins
  • Mandatory drug testing
  • Counseling requirements
  • Possible charge dismissal upon completion

What Should You Wear and Do in Court?

Courtroom success tips:

  • Conservative, professional attire
  • Arrive 30 minutes early
  • Address judge as "Your Honor"
  • Speak clearly and respectfully
  • Turn off all electronic devices


Note: This information serves educational purposes only. Criminal charges carry serious consequences. Always consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney about your specific situation.