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Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in the USA

A criminal arrest puts your future at risk. Convictions affect jobs, housing, and family life for years. The defense lawyers below include former prosecutors, board-certified specialists, and attorneys who have won thousands of cases. They handle DUI, drug charges, domestic violence, and serious felonies across the country.

Best Criminal Defense Law Firms Near Me - Browse By Major Top US Cities:

List of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in America

Screenshot of the Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC | Criminal Defense, Immigration, and Family Lawyers Website

Lai & Turner Law Firm is an Oklahoma City criminal defense practice handling felonies, misdemeanors, DUI/DWI, and drug charges. Founded by attorneys Jimmy Lai and Braden Turner, the firm has earned a 5-star rating from over 300 Google reviews.

The team also assists clients with immigration matters, including deportation defense, visa applications, and green card petitions. They offer 24/7 live call answering and initial case evaluations at no cost. The firm maintains offices on North Classen Boulevard and serves clients throughout Oklahoma County.

Screenshot of the Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers Website
355 S Grand Ave Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA 90071, USA

Perlman & Cohen are Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys with over 30 years of combined trial experience. Partners Daniel Perlman and Matthew Cohen handle DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, theft, and sex offense cases throughout Southern California.

The firm has earned recognition among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers. They challenge unlawful searches, flawed breathalyzer procedures, and unreliable witness testimony. Clients receive 24/7 availability and affordable payment plans. The team defends cases in Los Angeles County and surrounding jurisdictions, including Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties.

Screenshot of the Law Offices of Adrian H. Altshuler & Associates Website

Adrian H. Altshuler & Associates is a Franklin, Tennessee law firm practicing criminal defense and family law since 1991. Attorney Adrian Altshuler serves as a TN Supreme Court-approved Rule 31 Mediator with over 35 years of legal experience.

The firm handles DUI charges, drug crimes, theft, sex offenses, and juvenile matters across Williamson County. Their attorneys are available 24 hours a day through a dedicated support line. They maintain offices in Franklin, Columbia, and Brentwood to serve Middle Tennessee residents facing misdemeanor or felony charges.

Screenshot of the Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys Website
101 Dyer St suite 2d, Providence, RI 02903, USA

Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys is a leading Rhode Island law firm protecting clients' rights and freedoms. Our skilled Providence criminal defense attorneys specialize in criminal defense, appeals, domestic violence, and Title IX cases. We offer expert legal guidance, steadfast support, and personalized connections with each client, ensuring you're supported through every stage of the legal process. Schedule a free case strategy session today to secure the aggressive representation you need to safeguard your future.

Screenshot of the Zoukis Consulting Group Website
170 Meeting St #110, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. offers federal criminal defense and prison consulting services from Charleston, South Carolina. The firm combines legal representation with practical guidance for clients navigating the federal prison system.

Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA, leads the consulting practice as a published author on federal prison matters. Services include pre-sentencing preparation, compassionate release petitions, First Step Act time credits, and clemency applications. The team assists defendants, inmates, and their families across all federal districts nationwide.

Screenshot of the Fort Myers Criminal Defense Attorney Website

Hollander & Hanuka is a Fort Myers criminal defense firm led by attorney Dan Hanuka, a former Collier County public defender. He was twice named Attorney of the Year during his time as Misdemeanor and Juvenile Division Supervisor.

The firm defends clients charged with DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, probation violations, and theft throughout Lee and Collier counties. Hanuka has practiced criminal law in Southwest Florida since 1997. Initial consultations are complimentary, and the team serves Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Lehigh Acres.

Screenshot of the Law Office of David L. Faulkner Website

David L. Faulkner is a Bakersfield criminal defense attorney handling DUI, domestic violence, drug charges, and theft cases in Kern County. His practice focuses on protecting client rights through personalized legal strategies.

The firm defends felony and misdemeanor charges, including hit and run, assault, burglary, and white collar crimes. Faulkner also handles expungements to help clients clear eligible records. The Truxtun Avenue office offers complimentary initial consultations and has earned consistent 5-star reviews on Google.

Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Brian J. Cooke Website
1015 Locust St UNIT 1000, St. Louis, MO 63101, USA

Brian J. Cooke practices criminal defense exclusively in St. Louis, Missouri. His firm handles DWI, drug charges, assault, domestic violence, sex offenses, and weapons cases throughout the metro area.

Cooke provides each client with his personal cell phone number for direct access. Recent case results include felony fentanyl possession dismissals, DWI reductions to reckless driving, and acquittals on statutory sodomy charges. The firm uses flat-rate fees based on case complexity and offers payment plans. They also assist clients with drug and mental health treatment placement.

Screenshot of the Lee & Charlotte County, FL Criminal Defense Lawyer Website

Drew Fritsch Law Firm defends clients in Charlotte and Lee counties from its Punta Gorda office. Fritsch is a former Charlotte and Lee County prosecutor who now represents defendants charged with DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, and sex offenses.

His prosecutorial background gives him insight into how the state builds cases. The firm handles charges ranging from traffic violations to serious felonies across Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, and surrounding Southwest Florida communities. Expungement services are available for eligible records.

Screenshot of the JacksonWhite Law Website
16165 N 83rd Ave, Suite 200, Peoria, AZ 85382, USA

JacksonWhite Law is an Arizona criminal defense firm serving Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, and the surrounding Valley. The team includes attorneys Jeremy Geigle, Travis Jenson, and Ashelee Weeks, who handle DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, and juvenile offenses.

The firm has helped thousands of clients achieve reduced charges, case dismissals, and alternative sentencing. They maintain offices in Mesa, Scottsdale, and Peoria for convenient access across Maricopa County. Recognition includes Super Lawyers selections and National Trial Lawyers membership.

Screenshot of the Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. Website
1501 Belle Isle Avenue suite 110, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. represents defendants in federal criminal cases and provides prison consulting from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Attorney Franklin-Best handles white collar crimes, drug offenses, and appeals in federal courts nationwide.

The firm assists clients with compassionate release motions, sentence reductions under the First Step Act, and clemency petitions. Their team has authored multiple books on federal prison life. Services include pre-sentencing preparation, in-prison advocacy, and reentry planning for inmates and their families.

Screenshot of the BHW Law Firm - Fort Worth DWI Attorneys Website

Howard Lotspeich Alexander & Williams PLLC, known as HLAW, defends DWI and criminal cases in Fort Worth and Tarrant County. Several attorneys are former prosecutors and police academy instructors who understand law enforcement tactics firsthand.

The firm challenges field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and traffic stop procedures. They handle first-time DWI through felony repeat offenses, plus drug crimes, theft, domestic violence, and federal charges. Attorneys Jason Howard and Luke Williams have been named Top Attorneys by Fort Worth Magazine multiple years running.

Screenshot of the Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Website

Alpert Schreyer is a Maryland criminal defense firm with over 125 years of combined experience. Founding partner Andrew Alpert holds the distinction of being the only board-certified DUI defense attorney in Maryland and is an ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist.

The team has secured charge dismissals, reduced sentences, and not guilty verdicts on DUI, assault, theft, and drug cases across Montgomery, Prince George's, Frederick, and Charles counties. They offer 24-hour consultations and maintain offices in Lanham, Rockville, Frederick, and Waldorf.

Screenshot of the Perlman & Cohen Website
355 S Grand Ave #2450, Los Angeles, CA 90071, USA

The Los Angeles firm specializes in criminal defense law. Founding attorneys Daniel Perlman and Matthew Cohen have decades of experience. They represent clients facing DUI, domestic abuse, assault, theft, sex crimes, and drug offenses. Perlman and Cohen tailor legal strategies to each client. Their personalized service helps achieve favorable outcomes. This has earned them an excellent reputation.

Screenshot of the Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys Website

Suhre & Associates defends OVI/DUI and criminal cases across Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Principal Joe Suhre leads a team that includes a former police officer and a former prosecutor, providing insight into how law enforcement builds cases.

The firm handles drug charges, assault, domestic violence, sex crimes, federal offenses, and Title IX matters. They maintain offices in Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Indianapolis, Lexington, and Louisville. With over 100 years of combined experience, the team offers payment plans and 24-hour availability.

Screenshot of the Robinson Law, PLLC Website
10486 Armstrong St, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA

Robinson Law represents clients facing criminal charges in Fairfax and throughout Northern Virginia. The firm handles DUI/DWI, drug offenses, sex crimes, domestic violence, and federal matters. Several team members previously served as prosecutors.

Attorney Michael Robinson leads a team that includes former government lawyers experienced in both state and federal courts. They defend white collar crimes, assault, theft, and juvenile offenses. The Fairfax office offers around-the-clock consultations and also handles personal injury claims.

Screenshot of the Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Website
1625 The Alameda suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126, USA

Ahmed & Sukaram are San Jose criminal defense attorneys who have won over 3,000 cases and tried more than 50 jury trials. Partners Nafiz Ahmed and Shari Sukaram bring 30 years of combined experience to cases in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

The firm defends DUI, domestic violence, drug charges, theft, sex crimes, and assault throughout Silicon Valley. Both attorneys hold board certifications as criminal law specialists. They maintain offices in San Jose and Redwood City with Super Lawyers recognition and Top 100 Trial Lawyers membership.

Screenshot of the Hirsh Law Group Website
128 N Scott St, Joliet, IL 60432, USA

Hirsch Law Group is an Illinois criminal defense firm staffed by former prosecutors. Managing attorney Gordon H. Hirsch, a former Will County prosecutor, holds a 10.0 AVVO rating and has litigated hundreds of criminal cases over 25 years.

The team defends DUI, drug charges, domestic violence, theft, and sex offenses across 20 Illinois counties, including Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, and Kane. They have been ranked among the 40 best law offices in Illinois. The Joliet office provides initial consultations at no charge.

Screenshot of the Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers Website

Suhre & Associates Indianapolis handles criminal defense and DUI cases across Central Indiana. The firm defends drug charges, theft, assault, domestic violence, and sex offenses in Marion County and surrounding jurisdictions.

Their Indianapolis team works alongside offices in Ohio and Kentucky, drawing on over 100 years of combined firm experience. Attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the state builds cases. The West Ohio Street office offers 24-hour consultations and flexible payment plans.

Screenshot of the Koenig & Owen, LLC Website

Koenig & Owen is a Columbus criminal defense firm with a track record of successful case outcomes. The attorneys handle felony and misdemeanor charges, including DUI/OVI, drug crimes, theft, assault, and domestic violence across Franklin County.

The firm challenges evidence, negotiates with prosecutors, and takes cases to trial when necessary. Their North High Street office serves clients throughout Central Ohio facing state or federal charges. Initial consultations help defendants understand their options.

Screenshot of the David C. Hardaway - San Marcos Criminal Defense Lawyer Website

David C. Hardaway is a San Marcos criminal defense attorney recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer. He handles DWI, drug crimes, assault, and theft cases in Hays, Comal, and Guadalupe counties.

Hardaway brings trial experience to every case, whether negotiating plea agreements or defending charges before a jury. His East San Antonio Street office serves clients throughout the Texas Hill Country. The firm defends misdemeanors and felonies for residents of San Marcos, New Braunfels, Kyle, and surrounding communities.

Screenshot of the Select Law Partners PLLC-Fairfax Criminal Defense Lawyer Website

Select Law Partners defends criminal cases in Fairfax and Northern Virginia. The firm handles misdemeanors through serious felonies, including DUI, drug charges, assault, theft, and domestic violence throughout the Commonwealth.

Their Chain Bridge Road office serves Fairfax County, Arlington, Loudoun, and Prince William County residents. The team analyzes evidence, challenges procedural errors, and works toward reduced charges or case dismissals. Complimentary consultations are available for potential clients.

Screenshot of the The Bloomston Firm Website
1914 4th Avenue North suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35203, USA

The Bloomston Firm handles criminal defense, family law, and civil litigation from Birmingham, Alabama. Their attorneys defend felony and misdemeanor charges, including DUI, drug offenses, theft, assault, and white collar crimes in Jefferson County.

The 4th Avenue North office provides representation in state and federal courts across Central Alabama. The firm builds defense strategies through careful case investigation and evidence review. They also assist clients with expungements when eligible under Alabama law.

Screenshot of the Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys Website
177 N Church Ave #900, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

Katsarelis Law is a Tucson criminal defense firm with 45 years of combined experience. The attorneys handle DUI, drug charges, domestic violence, theft, assault, and sex offenses throughout Pima County.

Their North Church Avenue office provides consultations to help defendants understand Arizona criminal law and potential defense strategies. The team represents clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges in Tucson courts. They focus on protecting rights while working toward favorable case outcomes.

Screenshot of the John Reed, Attorney at Law Website
1500 Marina Bay Dr bldg 133, League City, TX, USA

John Reed is a League City criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience serving the Galveston Bay area. He handles DWI, drug charges, assault, theft, and domestic violence cases in Galveston and Harris counties.

Reed's Marina Bay Drive office provides representation for misdemeanor and felony charges throughout the Clear Lake region. His three decades of courtroom experience help clients navigate Texas criminal courts. The firm offers consultations to evaluate cases and explain legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

A criminal defense lawyer protects your constitutional rights and fights charges brought against you by the government. They investigate your case, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you at trial if needed.

Your attorney handles critical tasks, including:

  • Reviewing police reports and arrest procedures for legal violations
  • Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
  • Negotiating plea agreements for reduced charges or sentencing
  • Presenting your defense before a judge or jury
  • Advising you on potential outcomes and legal strategy

Under the Sixth Amendment, you have the right to effective legal counsel in criminal proceedings. A skilled defense attorney ensures prosecutors meet their burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

When should I hire a criminal defense attorney?

Hire a criminal defense attorney immediately after an arrest or when you learn you're under investigation. Early intervention gives your lawyer time to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and potentially prevent formal charges.

Critical moments requiring legal representation include:

  • Police questioning or interrogation requests
  • Arrest for any misdemeanor or felony offense
  • Receipt of a target letter indicating a federal investigation
  • Violation of probation or parole hearings

Speaking to police without an attorney present can seriously damage your case. Invoke your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and request counsel before answering questions.

How do I compare criminal defense lawyers before hiring one?

Evaluate attorneys based on experience with your specific charge type, trial record, and communication style. A lawyer who primarily handles DUI cases may not be ideal for a white-collar fraud defense.

Key comparison factors:

FactorWhat to Look For
ExperienceYears practicing criminal law; cases similar to yours
Track RecordDismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea outcomes
ResourcesAccess to investigators, expert witnesses, forensic analysts
AvailabilityWho handles your case daily—the attorney or junior staff?
CommunicationResponse time, clarity of explanations, accessibility

Request a consultation with at least three attorneys. Ask about their approach to cases like yours and request references from former clients when possible.

What questions should I ask during a consultation?

Ask specific questions that reveal the attorney's experience, strategy, and how they'll handle your case. Vague or evasive answers should raise concerns.

Essential questions include:

  • How many cases similar to mine have you handled?
  • What percentage of your cases go to trial versus plea agreements?
  • Will you personally handle my case or delegate it to associates?
  • What's your assessment of the prosecution's evidence?
  • What defense strategies might apply to my situation?
  • How do you communicate case updates?

Also, ask about their familiarity with local prosecutors and judges. Attorneys who regularly practice in specific courts often understand how particular judges rule on motions and sentencing.

How much do criminal defense lawyers cost?

Criminal defense attorneys typically charge either flat fees or hourly rates, depending on case complexity. Misdemeanor cases often range from $1,500 to $5,000 as flat fees, while felonies can cost $5,000 to $25,000 or more.

Common fee structures:

  • Flat fee: One price covers the entire case through resolution. Common for straightforward charges, such as first-offense DUI.
  • Hourly rate: You pay for actual time spent, typically $150 to $500+ per hour depending on experience and location.
  • Retainer: Upfront deposit that the attorney bills against hourly.

Serious felonies requiring extensive investigation, expert witnesses, or trial preparation cost significantly more. Federal cases generally command higher fees due to complexity and the stakes involved.

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

Public defenders are government-employed attorneys assigned to defendants who cannot afford private counsel. Private attorneys are hired directly and typically handle fewer cases at a time.

Public defenders are often skilled litigators with extensive courtroom experience. However, heavy caseloads may limit the time they can dedicate to each client. A 2023 report found many public defenders carry caseloads exceeding national guidelines.

Private attorneys generally offer:

  • More time for case investigation and preparation
  • Greater availability for client communication
  • Resources for private investigators and expert witnesses
  • Flexibility in defense strategy

If you qualify financially, a public defender provides constitutionally guaranteed representation at no cost. For those with resources, private counsel may offer more personalized attention.

What types of cases do criminal defense lawyers handle?

Criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing charges ranging from minor infractions to serious felonies. Many lawyers specialize in specific offense categories.

Common practice areas include:

  • DUI/DWI: Drunk or impaired driving charges
  • Drug offenses: Possession, distribution, trafficking, manufacturing
  • Violent crimes: Assault, robbery, domestic violence, homicide
  • White-collar crimes: Fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, money laundering
  • Sex crimes: Sexual assault, possession of illegal materials
  • Theft crimes: Burglary, larceny, shoplifting, auto theft
  • Federal offenses: Crimes prosecuted in U.S. District Court

Federal charges require attorneys experienced with federal sentencing guidelines and procedures, which differ substantially from state courts.

What factors affect the outcome of a criminal case?

Case outcomes depend on evidence strength, legal procedures followed during investigation, and the skill of your defense attorney. Constitutional violations during an arrest or search can result in the suppression of evidence.

Key factors include:

  • Evidence quality: Physical evidence, witness credibility, documentation
  • Procedural compliance: Whether police followed Fourth Amendment search requirements
  • Prior criminal history: First-time offenders often receive more lenient treatment
  • Charge severity: Misdemeanors versus felonies carry different consequences
  • Jurisdiction: Prosecutors and judges in different counties vary in approach
  • Victim cooperation: Some cases weaken if victims become uncooperative

Your attorney's ability to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and present compelling alternatives significantly impacts results.

Can a criminal defense lawyer get my charges dropped?

Yes, attorneys can sometimes get charges dropped or dismissed before trial. This typically happens when evidence is insufficient, procedures were violated, or mitigating circumstances exist.

Common paths to dismissal include:

  • Motion to suppress: Evidence obtained through an illegal search becomes inadmissible
  • Lack of probable cause: Arrest lacked legal justification
  • Witness problems: Key witnesses recant or become unavailable
  • Diversion programs: First-time offenders complete requirements in exchange for dismissal
  • Prosecutorial discretion: Prosecutor decides case isn't worth pursuing

Even when dismissal isn't possible, skilled negotiation often results in reduced charges. A felony might be reduced to a misdemeanor, or charges may be amended to avoid mandatory minimum sentences.

How long does a criminal case take to resolve?

Criminal cases typically take three months to over a year, depending on complexity and whether the case goes to trial. Simple misdemeanors resolve faster than serious felonies.

General timeline:

StageTypical Duration
ArraignmentWithin 48-72 hours of arrest
Preliminary hearing2-4 weeks after arraignment
Pretrial motions1-3 months
Plea negotiationsOngoing throughout process
Trial6-12+ months from arrest

Defendants have the Sixth Amendment right to a speedy trial. However, defense attorneys often waive this right when additional time benefits case preparation. Complex cases involving extensive evidence or multiple defendants take longer.

What should I look for in a criminal defense lawyer's track record?

Look for documented success with charges similar to yours, including dismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea agreements. Raw numbers matter less than outcomes in comparable cases.

Evaluate these metrics:

  • Percentage of cases resulting in dismissal or acquittal
  • Experience taking cases to trial versus only negotiating pleas
  • Results in the specific court where your case is filed
  • Client testimonials and peer reviews
  • Disciplinary history with the state bar association

Ask attorneys to describe recent cases similar to yours without revealing confidential details. Their ability to discuss strategy and outcomes demonstrates relevant experience.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?

Yes, even misdemeanor convictions create permanent criminal records affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing. The consequences extend far beyond potential jail time.

Misdemeanor penalties may include:

  • Up to one year in county jail
  • Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars
  • Probation with restrictive conditions
  • Loss of driving privileges
  • Mandatory counseling or community service

Certain misdemeanors involving domestic violence, theft, or dishonesty can disqualify you from specific careers. An attorney may negotiate alternatives that avoid conviction entirely, such as deferred adjudication or pretrial diversion programs.

What's the difference between state and federal criminal charges?

State charges involve violations of state law prosecuted in state courts, while federal charges involve federal statutes prosecuted in U.S. District Court. Federal cases typically carry harsher sentences.

Key differences:

AspectState CourtFederal Court
Prosecuting agencyDistrict/State AttorneyU.S. Attorney's Office
Investigating agenciesLocal/state policeFBI, DEA, ATF, IRS
SentencingState guidelines varyFederal Sentencing Guidelines
Conviction ratesApproximately 70-75%Approximately 90%+

Federal prosecutors generally pursue cases only when evidence is strong, resulting in higher conviction rates. If you're facing federal charges, hire an attorney with experience in federal court.

How do criminal defense attorneys challenge evidence?

Defense attorneys challenge evidence through pretrial motions, arguing constitutional violations, procedural errors, or reliability problems. Successful challenges can exclude key evidence from the trial.

Common evidence challenges:

  • Fourth Amendment violations: Evidence from warrantless or improper searches
  • Fifth Amendment violations: Statements obtained without Miranda warnings
  • Chain of custody issues: Evidence handling gaps creating doubt about integrity
  • Unreliable identification: Suggestive lineups or witness memory problems
  • Expert testimony flaws: Challenging scientific methods or analyst qualifications

Your attorney reviews discovery materials to identify every potential weakness. Even partial success—excluding some evidence—can strengthen your negotiating position or trial defense.

What happens if I'm found guilty?

If convicted, you'll face a sentencing hearing where the judge determines penalties within statutory guidelines. Your attorney advocates for the most lenient sentence possible.

Sentencing factors include:

  • Offense severity and statutory ranges
  • Criminal history and prior convictions
  • Victim impact statements
  • Mitigating circumstances presented by the defense
  • Sentencing guidelines applicable in your jurisdiction

Many states and the federal system use structured sentencing guidelines. Your attorney can present mitigating evidence, including employment history, family responsibilities, rehabilitation efforts, and character witnesses, to argue for reduced sentences or alternatives to incarceration.