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Criminal Defense Attorneys
214,270 verified criminal defense attorneys across the United States. A criminal defense attorney protects your rights from arrest through trial. Find experienced lawyers handling DUI, drug, federal, theft, and violent-crime charges.
A criminal charge — even a misdemeanor — can cost you your job, your housing, your immigration status, and your freedom. Prosecutors have the resources of the state. A criminal defense attorney is the counterweight that protects your constitutional rights, examines the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses, and negotiates or litigates for the best possible outcome under the facts of your case.
What a criminal defense attorney does
Appears at arraignment and bond hearings to argue for release on your own recognizance
Reviews the police report, body-camera footage, and forensic evidence for procedural violations
Files motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches or interrogations
Negotiates with the prosecutor for charge reduction, dismissal, or diversion
Prepares and presents your defense at trial before a judge or jury
Pursues appeals or post-conviction relief if the trial result was unjust
Types of cases handled
Criminal defense covers everything from minor misdemeanors to capital felonies, including:
DUI / DWI and related impaired-driving charges
Drug possession, distribution, and trafficking
Theft, burglary, robbery, and other property crimes
Violent crimes including assault, battery, and homicide
Federal charges including conspiracy, RICO, and federal drug trafficking
Juvenile delinquency matters
Why hiring early matters
The most effective criminal defense often happens before charges are filed. If you are under investigation, a criminal defense attorney can intervene with prosecutors, prevent self-incriminating statements, and sometimes resolve the matter without formal charges. Once charges are filed, every passing day is a chance for evidence to be lost or for the prosecution’s case to harden.
Public defenders are constitutionally-required, often excellent lawyers, but they are dramatically overworked — typical caseloads of 100+ active cases mean less time on yours. If you can afford private counsel, you get more attorney attention; if you cannot, a public defender is far better than going unrepresented.
Should I talk to the police if they want to question me?
No — not without a lawyer present. You have an absolute right to remain silent and to have counsel during questioning. Police are trained to elicit incriminating statements, and even truthful statements can be used against you in unexpected ways. Politely decline and ask for a lawyer.
How much does a private criminal defense lawyer cost?
Misdemeanor representation typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000. Felony cases range from $5,000 to $25,000+. Serious federal cases or jury trials can cost much more. Many attorneys offer payment plans, and the cost is almost always less than the long-term cost of conviction.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses punishable by up to a year in county jail. Felonies are serious offenses punishable by more than a year in state or federal prison and often carry collateral consequences such as loss of voting rights, gun ownership rights, and certain employment licenses.
Can I have a criminal record expunged?
Sometimes. Most states allow expungement or sealing of certain misdemeanors and lower-level felonies after a waiting period of clean conduct. Some serious offenses (sex crimes, violent felonies, federal convictions) cannot be expunged. An attorney can review your record and tell you what is available.
What happens at an arraignment?
At arraignment the court formally reads the charges, takes your plea (usually “not guilty” at this stage), and sets bond conditions. Your attorney will argue for release on personal recognizance or for the lowest possible bond. Arraignment is also the moment to invoke your right to a speedy trial.
