Need advice, my friend has been accused of serious crime and facing heavy penalty.

There is no such thing as a great dishonest attorney. There just isnt. If.you cant trust them theh arent great. Also, how do you know.they are great. Did they tell you this?? The best option is a great attorney that you trust and has your best interests at heart.

A "dishonest lawyer" by definition is not a great lawyer.

A criminal lawyer, not a "criminal" lawyer

I have never heard of a "great dishonest attorney" and not sure how you could even determine that. Your friend or a member of his family needs to consult with a local criminal attorney for advice and to discuss his legal options.

Very amusing - whatever the public may think - I have benn doing this for too many years than I care to recall - and I will tell you this. You will look long and hard to find a dishonest criminal lawyer. Some are better, more dedicated than others - but dishonest, don't know a single one - and I know a lot of lawyers.

Fundamentally, you need a lawyer you feel comfortable with and whom you feel has your best interests are heart. The more skill and "battle tested" you lawyer, the better you'll often find your situation; i.e. either use that experience to negotiate the best possible resolution or he/she will be able to use those weapons in trial to defend you against the government. Meet with every lawyer you think might be the one for you; then ask who do I feel comfortable teaming up with to achieve my goals? THAT'S the lawyer you want.