Atty. Dwane Cates
Born and raised in Wyoming, Arizona criminal defense attorney Dwane Cates brings a cowboy’s independence, grit, and fearlessness to every case he accepts. Widely recognized as one of the country’s most respected defense lawyers, he remains grounded in the reality that life is complicated and a single unexpected event can change everything.
Profile Summary
About Dwane Cates at a glance
Dwane Cates is an Attorney based in Phoenix, Arizona, practicing at Cates Reed Pllc. They have 29+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 1997. Their practice focuses on dui/dwi and criminal defense. Admitted to practice in Arizona (1997) and United States District Court For the District of North Dakota (2015). Educated at Arizona State University (J.D., 1996) and Arizona State University (B.A., 1993). Recognitions include Peer Reviewed. Serves clients in Phoenix, AZ and the surrounding metropolitan area.
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About
- Born and raised in Wyoming, Arizona criminal defense attorney Dwane Cates brings a cowboy’s independence, grit, and fearlessness to every case he accepts
- Widely recognized as one of the country’s most respected defense lawyers, he remains grounded in the reality that life is complicated and a single unexpected event can change everything
- Dwane’s personal journey through alcoholism and long-term recovery has deepened his compassion and strengthened his ability to understand clients facing high-stakes problems, which is one reason he is so drawn to criminal defense
- A Board Certified, award-winning attorney, he is known for integrity and a direct, hands-on approach—working personally with clients and making himself accessible throughout the process
- Dedicated to protecting constitutional rights, Dwane relies on decades of experience and a proven record of success, tailoring strategy to the person and the facts rather than using a one-size-fits-all playbook
- When a case demands additional firepower, he leverages trusted relationships with top specialists, including forensic psychologists, investigators, and mitigation professionals, to prepare thoroughly for trial and pursue the best possible outcome
Practice Areas Explained
Dwane Cates's Areas of Practice
Each practice area below reflects the types of cases Dwane Cates handles, with a brief overview of what that area of law covers.
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Dwane Cates is one of 26,859 dui/dwi attorneys indexed nationally. Browse dui/dwi attorneys in Arizona →
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Dwane Cates is one of 190,900 criminal defense attorneys indexed nationally. Browse criminal defense attorneys in Arizona →
Jurisdictional Context
Why local counsel matters in Arizona
Practicing law in Arizona. Legal matters in Arizona are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Phoenix are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate Arizona state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in Arizona brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this venue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in Arizona courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.
Looking for additional Arizona attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Phoenix or all attorneys in Arizona.
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