Best Criminal Defense lawyers in Washington, DC

1,813 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Washington, DC

>1.8k

experienced lawyers

Jay P Mykytiuk

600 F Street NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Domestic Violence Federal Crime +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

22 Reviews

27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous

Attorney Mykytiuk did a fantastic job working my case! Jay helped me get through the entire process and got the CPO against me dropped. Nothing but good things to say about him and his work!

13 May, 2019 by Anonymous

Jay was very helpful and I would absolutely recommend him to anyone. If you ever need an attorney in DC he would be a great choice.

05 May, 2019 by Jina

1 word = INCREDIBLE! On the day of court, as I was dropped off at the front of the courthouse, with his magnificent, precise, and sheer confident work, Jay had my case dismissed before my family found parking. Jaw dropping, I know. Jay is 1 of the best attorneys I have ever met. Not only does he have an extensive knowledge in law, his passion for law brings him up to a level of vastness that is above and beyond many in his field. Education is what makes a competent lawyer. When you add cunning and savvy on top is when you get Jay Mykytiuk. It was MY pleasure to have him as counsel and should you be so lucky to have such a bulletproof defence. If you look up the word APPRECIATIVE in a thesaurus you will find all the synonyms that describe counselor Mykytiuk at all times. Such humbleness to match his fiery and exemplary way of winning. If you want a vanquished case, Jay is your man. It is imperative that you acquire him as council, if you want pure triumphant victory, because everything he does is a magnificent conquest. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this experience a memorable, in a good way, slam - dunk counselor.

Bernard F Crane

601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

Business Criminal Defense +2

+1 (202) 836-6894

5.0/5

5.0

22 Reviews

11 Sep, 2024 by Jeff

Mr. Crane is very professional. I am completely satisfied with his services in providing me with the best possible outcome.

16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

Mr. Crane helped me immensely. I would absolutely recommend him for anyone in need of legal assistance!

19 Mar, 2024 by Sheena

I am someone who is not well versed with the law, and I recommend Attorney Bernard Crane with the highest praise. He is incredibly helpful, knowledgeable and patient. I can confidently say he is experienced with the type of questions he asks and information he provides; you are lucky if you have him on your side.

A.J. Amissah

501 3rd St NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

+1 (703) 705-7389

5.0/5

5.0

21 Reviews

18 Jul, 2024 by Dr. kirsten lovelace

I am absolutely pleased with Mr. Amissah's representation. He was absolutely diligent, respectful, helpful, fair, and efficient in his efforts to help me settle my divorce in a way that honored me and my children’s best interest. I could not have finished this without his help, guidance and representation! Thank you! Please hire him, well worth the investment.

28 Jun, 2024 by Lynnie

Mr. Amissah was VERY professional; friendly; respectful and results driven! Highly recommended this Attorney.

01 Feb, 2024 by James

Mr. Amissah is very knowledgeable of the law and provides excellent customer service. He walked me through my case and provided great representation for my case. If you are in need of a great lawyer to help you with your case, I highly recommend Mr. Amissah. Thank you to you for all of the help!

S. Jamison Koehler

803 D Street, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Domestic Violence +2

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

04 May, 2021 by Karen

Mr. Koehler represented me as the petitioner in a DC CPO case, a horrific affair, 9 months of stalking, harassment, threats of violence and extortion. If I could give 10 stars I would. Mr. Koehler is that unique combination of highly knowledgeable and competent, while being incredibly personable. He handled the horrendous twists and turns of my case with such humanity, care and genuine concern for me (and the law), all the while navigating the DC legal system and the process for me with the utmost professionalism. After winning my case yesterday, I had the best night's sleep I've had in months. I slept so peacefully and soundly -- like I haven't in a very long time. And, I feel safe and secure, and intensely happy that I don't have to face the prospect of another day wondering what awful thing the stalker might do to attempt some form of contact/show his "affection"....It's been the most horrendous nightmare. My family, friends and loved ones -- and most importantly I can't thank Mr. Koehler enough for restoring to me a feeling of safety and freedom. I owe him an immense debt of gratitude. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, one Hoya to another.

18 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous

As many people often do, I realized (too late) that I may have made a mistake in handling a situation and could have potentially opened myself up to liability. I called Jamison to get a quick take on my situation. To my surprise, he picked up the phone immediately and made time to discuss. He had immediate and detailed knowledge of the ins-and-outs of my situation. He asked pointed questions and gave me some quick, understandable feedback (off the top of his head). This really put my frantic mind at ease for the moment.

04 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous

What else can I say that hasn't been said already? He is a kind, sensitive, intelligent lawyer that genuinely cared about my unfortunate situation. He was very patient and answered all my numerous and excessive questions. He even promptly replied to my email at 4 AM! Who does that? And of course, he got me the very desirable Deferred Prosecution Agreement. There are many lawyers in DC, and one may not know how/whom to choose. Well, I can tell you that within first minute of talking to him, I knew that I made the right choice. Most highly recommended!

Gregory W Copeland

601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense +1

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

19 Dec, 2023 by Brian

Mr. Copeland took the time to listen and was very attentive. He was able to work with the Commonwealth attorney to give us a very satisfactory outcome to our case. I would recommend him to anyone.

27 Aug, 2023 by Barbara

Incredibly knowledgeable and thorough. Excellent communication, and was always available when we had questions.

22 Aug, 2023 by Andre

Hired Mr. Copeland for my 22 year old son , case was sensitive and not easy . It was a complex case . Rather not go into specifics about the case but , Mr Copeland defended my sons position brilliantly and most important was very relatable and was able to create great chemistry with my son .

Jon W Norris

503 D Street, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense +1

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

06 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous

I recently had one of the worst things imaginable happen to me. I had a shady person from my past file a protection order against me, for the simple reason of hurting my career. They knew that this would have a drastic and negative impact on my career so I decided to fight it. There are lawyers in DC who have mastered the Google algorithm so they kept coming up over and over and over again with every search for a DC criminal attorney and when I called to talk to them, I was referred to a different lower level attorney at their firm. I found Jon from his reviews after interviewing 3 other attorneys. His fees weren't the lowest or the highest but in the middle and he was flexible with a payment strategy. He spent time with me to understand the case and understood the outcome I was seeking. These charges were pure fiction and to this day am still in shock at how our legal system caters first to scammers, and only modestly to actual scam victims. Anyway, long story short, less than a week after meeting him we had our court date and he facilitated exactly what he said. If you've been fraudulently accused of something criminal, you need an attorney that will get in and fight for you. They shouldn't stress you out in order to prepare you for rate hikes or fees outside of what was originally agreed on. Jon gave me a flat fee solution and he did everything he said he would. If I ever had a close friend or family member that needed an attorney, I'd immediately refer them to Jon Norris without hesitation.

04 Nov, 2019 by Courtney

I first came to Jon a year ago with my very first legal issue. I was honestly floored by how unpretentious, and non-judgmental he was and immediately wanted to hire him. He made me feel at ease, and didn't make empty promises, yet he delivered everything he said and then some. This was a very emotional experience for me, and my future was uncertain in the beginning. At sentencing, Jon fought for me and made me feel much better about my future. Now 3 days later, I feel lighter, happier and free. I highly recommend Jon for his easy-going nature, and ability to make you feel at home. He's trustworthy and always delivers on anything that he says. He and his associates communicated well with me given the distance, and always kept me up to date with any changes. Overall, this was the best (albeit only) experience with a criminal defense attorney, and he was amazing!

16 Oct, 2019 by R.

I hired Jon to represent me in a misdemeanor sex abuse case related to an incident at a bar. I was initially represented by a public defender that told me the DA would not move off of the charge or offer any sort of diversion. The victim was so upset that she had requested jail time. I hired Jon, who after many court appearances and negotiation with the prosecutor's office got the case dismissed! No diversion, no plea deal - dismissal. It is my understanding that by using a more technical legal approach pertaining to the charges, as well as obtaining some evidence from the bar that worked in my favor, Jon was able to poke enough holes in the DA's case to convince them to drop it. In addition, Jon is responsive to client needs and questions throughout the process. He has a very professional demeanor in court and had a great rapport with the judge in my case. I would absolutely recommend Jon Norris. I would be sitting here with an ugly charge on my record if I had stayed with the public defender assigned to my case.

Mark E Schamel

1200 19th Street, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Government +2

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

31 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous

I am one of the lucky people who has called Mark my friend since 2001. He and I lost touch for a number of years, but I always felt like if I ever got in personal legal trouble, Mark would be the first person I would call. And, he was. Last year Mark swiftly stepped in to defend me against a TRO filed by my (now former) upstairs neighbor to gain advantage against my husband in a longstanding condo dispute. It was a dark period in my life, but Mark was able to resolve the TRO matter and the longstanding condo dispute. Any client that Mark takes on is a lucky client indeed. I also echo many of the clients reviews about Mark being smart, commanding, and overall excellent attorney and strategist.

20 Sep, 2019 by Howard

I have had the privilege of representing two mutual clients with Mark and, in one of those cases, serving as co-counsel. Mark is take charge lawyer in the courtroom who strikes the right balance of advocating as zealously as I have ever seen for a client, while maintaining the proper decorum and respect toward the bench. From a pre-trial perspective, Mark is a creative thinker who develops a strategy and solution that is likely not apparent to most who would assess the situation. I continue to highly recommend Mark to clients who are in need of services in his area.

18 Sep, 2019 by Sreekrishna

I met Mark over July 4th weekend in 2017. It's a remarkable journey since. He is a rare combination of intellect, knowledge, quick thinking, energy, passion, and compassion to his clients. He is a REAL trial lawyer. He discussed or emailed his plans along the way. He encouraged my involvement in the filings. As the defendant, one MUST involve in his/her case seriously, and I did. He was aggressive, but he knew when to be humble. This was particularly important in my case, as it took many unique turns. He executed well with an excellent outcome; a dismissal of multiple criminal charges in a federal court. We didn't always agree, but he respected my disagreement(s). I recommend him strongly in all criminal matters.

Shawn S Sukumar

407 7th St NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Sex Crime +2

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

10 Jul, 2023 by Roberto

So I was facing Charges for driving while drunk in DC and they found my concealed carry (pistol) under my seat and my Virginia License to conceal carry wasn’t recognized by the District of Columbia. But Thankfully Mr. Shawn Sukumar’s amazing Knowledge and experience in his field was able to get the gun charges dropped and I was able to avoid any jail time (aside from the initial arrest) and in the end had 6 months unsupervised Probation with 90 hours of community service, 12 hours of an alcohol class, online driving safety course, Online MADD course and a 100 fee I believe was it. And after all that the judge signed a Youth act order meaning my conviction was removed from my record. All in all I was very satisfied with the end result of my case. Highly recommend this gentleman, he is very professional and makes sure his clients understand everything and is very good about staying in contact with his clients and keeping them updated. You would Definitely want him representing you if you needed an attorney.

19 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous

Sukumar is the best lawyer! I hired him for my criminal case that he fought so hard for me for in my defense that the case was dismissed. I don't have enough words to describe how amazing the experience with him and the firm was. He works very hard to make sure you have winning results. He communicates with you by phone or email. He follow ups with you about your cases. I could not have asked for a better lawyer. He was awsome! From the moment I first hired him to represent me until my case was over, I was at ease and comfortable with him handling my case. If you need a criminal defense lawyer, I highly recommend Shawn Sukumar! Thank you Shawn!

31 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous

Shawn was honest, fair , smart and reliable. I referred him for a friend and he put them at ease with the situation. Great job Shawn ! Thank you

Joseph Anthony Scrofano

600 F St NW, Washington, DC

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Domestic Violence +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

09 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous

Joe was excellent in getting a diversion on one charge and the rest dismissed. I am now eligible for record expungement. Thanks Jo!

26 Feb, 2018 by Marcus

Attorney Scrofano got my case dismissed! At the end of the day that's exactly what you want to be able to say as well and the only logical suggestion I could offer is that you hire him if you seek the same outcome. He's a really cool dude and a consummate professional. Speaking from experience he gets the job done no matter how difficult it may seem as I can attest personally. A1 Super Trial Lawyer for sure!!

11 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous

I was falsely accused of a felony sexual assault and struck with absolute horror at what that would mean for me and my family. While I knew I was innocent I worried what a charge would do to my future even if it was beaten. I was unable to sleep, disoriented and anxiety-ridden. If you are finding yourself in that state I can assure you that you are putting yourself in good hands by reaching out to Joe Scrofano. I was given confident, competent advice at every step along the way. He managed to guide me through a well thought out plan and keep me informed throughout its execution. I was made aware of every possible outcome when faced with choices even when those possibilities were difficult to hear. Communication of these touchy subjects was always handled with the utmost professionalism and compassion. I am extremely thankful to report that after following the advice of Mr. Scrofano and having him work on my behalf no charges were brought against me. I cannot stress enough how trustworthy he is. My life was quite literally in his hands and I am forever grateful to have found him.

Claudine Eleanor Harrison

601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, South Bldg., Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Immigration +2

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

16 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous

public defender's can be very hit or miss. But Ms Harrison is an excellent lawyer who cares about getting your situation resolved. She keeps you informed and doesn't work against you. 5 stars.

11 Mar, 2022 by Jahi

I really appreciate you for putting my case on your number one priority and getting the job done for me

01 Feb, 2022 by Sheril

I had a wonderful experience with Ms. Harrison, she was very professional and went out of her way to facilitate my needs. She is very responsive and easy to talk to, she is very patient and outlines all necessary tasks in details. Working with her was a great decision.

Marc Thomas Napolitana

2001 L Street NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Government +2

5.0/5

5.0

17 Reviews

13 Jul, 2022 by Jose v.

First of all, I want to thank Mr. Napolitana for restoring faith in my belief in the legal system. I spent the past 35 yrs dealing with the adverse and traumatic effects of having an Other than Honorable Discharge for an unfortunate decision I made when I was 22 yrs old. I knew that there was something special about Mr. Napolitana from the moment we spoke. His empathy and compassion towards my living with a “bad paper” discharge gave me the hope that empowered me to work with him in seeking out an upgrade of my discharge and a correction of what we both perceived to be an injustice. Although COVID 19 slowed down the legal process, Mr. Napolitana and his team forged ahead in keeping me informed as to the continuing preparation of my case that would be presented to the military board. Mr. Napolitana was never detected not discouraged regarding my previous two submissions for upgrades by other firms and assured me that they would do everything they could to be able to give me the best opportunity to have my discharge upgraded, if not to Honorable then General under Honorable Conditions. After 2 and half years of working with me in helping me navigate putting together all the necessary documents historical and current (character letters, work history, educational accomplishments, community and faith based), I was excited and overwhelmed to find out just days ago thet my discharge was administratively upgraded to General under Honorable Conditions. The emotions that I experienced and the tears that flow were a culmination of 35 yrs of being defined by a discharge that could have otherwise been resolved amicably upon my original dos barge 35 yrs ago. I am so grateful to Mr. Napolitana for all the hard and exhausting hours that he and his team spent on my case and my family and I will forever be grateful to him for giving me an opportunity to have my military discharge match the person of character and achievements that I have attained in the past 35 yrs. Two other times my upgrade request were denied by submissions by others…. Mr. Napolitana was able to get done what I thought to be the impossible. Thank you sir for your service in and outside of the military. You have changed my life!!!

06 May, 2022 by Anonymous

Marc represented me during the 2+ year appeal process fighting to have the denial of my security clearance application overturned. Although this process is known to be inherently long, stressful and difficult to navigate, Marc’s representation and guidance throughout it all made it less daunting. There was not one instance where my emails and phone calls were left unanswered, or concerns not addressed. Marc is without a doubt the reason I was ultimately successful. His expertise was apparent from the start and without his guidance I would not currently hold a security clearance.

05 May, 2022 by Anonymous

Marc was truly excellent. He helped me work through a complicated SF-86 and eased my concerns about the security clearance process along the way. Highly recommend.

Christopher J Mutimer

600 F Street, NW, Washington, DC

Car Accident Criminal Defense Domestic Violence +3

5.0/5

5.0

15 Reviews

30 Apr, 2021 by Shahz

Mr. Mutimer assisted me in a rather "messy" matter which resulted in a favorable outcome. Throughout litigation I was presented different options/routes to take to which Mr. Mutimer always took the time out to explain the effects these options could/would have on my future. I never once felt the pressure that he wanted to "just get this case over and settle for less." His attention to detail made a huge difference and the results show. Mr. Mutimer restlessly fought-litigated from the beginning of my case to the very end as if it was a personal matter of his own. The quality of legal representation has exceeded beyond my expectations. As a Client I'm excited to see where his skillset takes him in the years to come. Lastly, don't waste your time comparing prices/reviews with other Law Firms. This is the one. Not to mention they're (Scrofano Law PC) located a convenient 1500 feet away from the DC Superior Court - That says something.

23 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous

Chris was a great help in a very stressful moment. He had a very strategic approach and the outcomes of my case were positive. I would highly recommend him.

13 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous

Last year we had the unpleasant experience of having to get professional help to clear our record after an unjustified arrest. Working with Chris is the only blessing through this difficult time. His positive attitude and enthusiasm about the case is very comforting for us. He is fantastic at drawing up simple yet very effective game plan and communicated with us every step of the way. We couldn't have asked for a better outcome working with anybody else. We would definitely recommend him to anybody who is in similar situation.

Benjamin J Vernia

1455 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC

Business Criminal Defense Federal Crime +3

5.0/5

5.0

11 Reviews

11 Sep, 2022 by Maros

Mr. Vernia represented me in three cases against two billion dollar companies, single-handedly winning all three of them, securing a substantial monetary compensation. In the first case Mr. Vernia filed a successful qui tam (whistleblower) suit against a major aerospace company which was overcharging government clients. The DoJ thanked us for our efforts and rewarded us with a substantial relator share compensation, together with attorney fees. In the second, retaliation case, Mr. Vernia obtained a substantial monetary settlement from the company. In the third case, Mr. Vernia tirelessly defended me, my family, and my small business against a large company who filed a meritless strike suit in their attempt to take my business down as its only competitor. Mr. Vernia filed dozens of motions and fought to the end against the company and its 21-person team consisting of fourteen lawyers. As a result of Mr. Vernia’s effort and his knowledge of the Defense Trade Secret Act, we won the entire case on summary judgment, while exposing the company’s lies and fabrications.

29 May, 2022 by Shan

Ben Vernia’s is an absolute gem of a lawyer. His calm personality made me feel safe when everything was falling apart. He took care of me like no other attorney has ever done. He got me the outcome I wanted and I highly recommend his law firm.

22 Nov, 2021 by Laurie

He literally saved the case. I found myself in a bind: headed to a notorious Circuit Court and the senior attorney I had hired had pawned my case off to a junior associate who had botched it all. In fact, we were weeks from submitting the brief and they were totally unprepared. I was given the name of Ben Vernia from successful attorneys in that circuit and called. Most folks aren’t interested in federal whistleblowers who did the right thing but aren’t likely to yield lots and lots of cash, but Mr. Vernia cared more about saving my dignity and preserving my case. Mr. Vernia got right to work on my case and impressed me in several important ways. He was transparent about his fees. He estimated hours in advance so I could plan approximate costs. This kept my anxiety and budget within control. Mr. Vernia was calm and compassionate. He listened to me. He was respectful. He helped me understand the process we would be engaging in so I could know what to expect. Mr. Vernia was skilled. He developed careful arguments and delivered them expertly. I was so impressed. I would happily employ him as an attorney in the future. He is a wonderful person and professional.

Kanita Crystal Williams

601 Pennsylvania Ave NW Ste 900, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Government +2

5.0/5

5.0

10 Reviews

02 Feb, 2017 by Ricardo

Well I live in Atlanta and Kanita found the way for me not to spend a lot on plane tickets by having me complete what I had to do in Georgia.

19 Dec, 2016 by Raul

Excellent attorney. Helped me to resolve my DUI case. Above all what makes her great is her personality. Very easy going and very kind. I would highly recommend Kanita. She will not let you down.

20 Nov, 2016 by Luke

Very Attentive, Professional, and Prepared!! Made this situation stress free and uncomplicated. Her communication was regular and appreciated. I would absolutely go to her if I have any future need of legal representation.

Brandi J Harden

400 7th St NW Ste 604, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense +1

5.0/5

5.0

8 Reviews

31 Jan, 2016 by Jdm

I could not have asked for better representation in my case. Once retained, she worked diligently to ensure a positive outcome in my matter. I appreciated the aggressive work ethic exhibited as she handled my case. She truly cared about the outcome and the detrimental future I could possibly face if we lost. Seemingly immature, I did not think the case was serious until Brandi sat me down and explained the life long consequences that would affect me if I did not take the matter serious. It wasn't all about the money for her. She had my best interest in mind. She kept me abreast of every thing she was doing and explained why. Thankfully, the outcome was positive for us. Her hard work paid off! I highly recommend Brandi Harden. She is amazing!

02 Jan, 2016 by Tom

Brandi harden is by far the best lawyer in the DC area. She really cares for her clients and fights hard for them. She was integral in getting my case resolved and I highly recommend her. She helped me save my medical license. You want Brandi on your side!

31 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous

Ms. Harden is an outstanding attorney. She answered every question abut my case, and was the most thorough lawyer I have ever worked with. If you want your case handled with impeccable skill you should hire her. Best legal experience I've ever had. THANK YOU MS. HARDEN! You literally saved my life!

Lisa Manning

575 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Litigation +2

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

01 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous

For any ordinary person like me, being caught by law for something is not easy to digest. I came to know Lisa through a friend and once I met her I knew my case was in safe hands. All I want to say is "Thank You" for everything that you did for me and my family!

13 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous

Personable, attentive, and thorough. Got the job done and kept me posted along the way. Affordable and reasonable billing.

09 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous

Ms. Manning really impressed me with her thoroughness to my record. While the state search didn't turn anything up, she pressed on and checked databases that I didn't even realize existed and made sure that nothing from a silly mistake when I was 18 would pop up during my job search. In this job market, firms are looking for any way to reduce the size of the pool of qualified candidates. I've got peace of mind knowing that something on my record from 10+ years ago won't get in the way.

Dennis Michael Hart

300 New Jersey Ave NW Ste 900, Washington, DC

Appeals Criminal Defense +2

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

03 Sep, 2024 by Olayinka ogbola

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your invaluable assistance in securing the return of the earnest money deposit. Your dedication, expertise, and commitment to my case were evident throughout the entire process, and I truly appreciate your efforts in achieving this positive outcome. Your guidance made a significant difference, and I am grateful for the time and effort you put into resolving this matter. I couldn't have done this without your support, and I feel fortunate to have had you representing me. Thank you once again for your outstanding service. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you again in the future, should the need arise.

01 Jul, 2024 by Lion8584

My family and I were frantically looking for a lawyer to handle our case, to which we looked at our insurance policy and called the referenced list; of three lawyers, Inna was the only one who answered. Inna was very friendly from the moment she said "hello" and knowledgeable in the particular matter we had discussed. Inna provided suggestions, that were extremely helpful, and followed up promptly while working with our insurance company. During the few conversations held, Inna was attentively and patiently listening to the details of the situation. And, yes, I know she's 'paid' to do that, but you can tell a genuine person from one who cares about business and money first, rather than people first, like Inna. While we had to ultimately part ways, from our limited experience with Inna, and not haven't spoken with a lawyer previously (on any occasion), I would heavily suggest reaching out to Inna. Inna was gracious and wished us well for our future. It was wholesome.

28 Jun, 2023 by Gabrielle best husband

I first met Attorney Brady as a volunteer for Christian Legal Aid of DC. Attorney Brady was committed, dedicated, and passionate. Attorney Brady later worked closely with me on a case and her client-centric approach to law was inspiring. Attorney Brady is detailed, thorough, and passionate about supporting her clients on their legal journeys. A zealous advocate, Attorney Brady maintains her integrity and always takes the time to listen to her clients, and to explain each step of the legal process. If you are looking for an attorney who is committed, passionate, and listens - Attorney Brady is an excellent choice.

Leonard C. Pederson

5039 Connecticut Ave NW Ste 3, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense Litigation Personal Injury +3

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

16 Oct, 2023 by Ben nyato

Best and very knowledgeable

10 Apr, 2022 by Emma gerondidakis

06 Oct, 2017 by Kenton schulze

Helpful and experienced attorneys

Jacqueline R Williams

601 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense +1

5.0/5

5.0

7 Reviews

22 May, 2018 by Anonymous

Jacqueline communicated effectively and was very knowledgeable. She got me through the proceess with the result I wanted.

26 Feb, 2018 by Nadine

Ms. Williams represented me in a civil case. She was very professional and knowledgeable. She spent a fair amount of time explaining the pros and cons of my case to me. Ms. Williams won my case. As stressful as it was she supported me thru it and for that I'm so grateful.

04 Nov, 2015 by Chris

This is a wonderful attorney whom I am honored to have met and have represent my case. She knows the law and what adds to her valued expertise is that she knows the courthouse

Eugene Victor Gorokhov

1424 K St NW Ste 500, Washington, DC

Appeals Criminal Defense +2

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

10 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous

Mr. Gorokhov was always patient and detailed. He took time to explain all aspects of the case and the trial process. I felt comfortable in discussions regarding my decisions. I am extremely pleased I was able to work with him and with the outcome of my case.

23 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous

Zealous advocate of my case and prudent of financials. He was Eugene was pivotal in coming to agreement with opposing counsel which led to as favorable an outcome as I could have hoped for.

13 Jan, 2022 by Warren

Every avenue he could, every issue he could target, and Every angle he could attack he thoroughly did it. If you are facing time and definitely if your freedom is on the line...I'd strongly advise Mr. Gorokhov is who you want to hire and have on your side...10 out of 10 times. " A Very Grateful Client" Mr. Warren Hill

Misty Carin Thomas

Aba Ste 400 1050 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC

Civil Rights Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +3

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

19 Apr, 2024 by Grace finn

Excellent medical malpractice firm - they do great work for their clients. Professional, supportive and caring attorneys. Would highly recommend.

19 Apr, 2024 by Dan baskind

29 Aug, 2023 by A.t. kangas

I can not express enough my appreciation to James "Jim" Cardea, P.A. Jim handled a very emotional case for us and was extremely professional, honest, knowledgeable, responsive, effective and efficient. I was deeply grateful for his advocacy and experience.

Patrice Amandla Sulton

601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

Criminal Defense +1

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

07 May, 2017 by Abdulaleem bilal

Patrice is Very responsive she makes sure she stays on task and she nakes sure you know all the details for your case to solve

29 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous

Patrice was an excellent lawyer that did not back down from a high profile case that other lawyers were scared to take. She was relentless in dealing with every detail of the case and was victorious in the end. I highly recommend her as a lawyer and would use her again if need be.

30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous

Did not hire but the consultation was great

Andrew Edward Goldsmith

1615 M St NW Ste 400, Washington, DC

Appeals Criminal Defense Litigation +3

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

04 Sep, 2024 by Elan mayes

29 Mar, 2024 by Brad warren

1800 M Street, NW, Washington, DC

Business Criminal Defense Litigation +3

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

24 Feb, 2023 by Kenny

Professional, Confidence And Best Representation. Attention To Details And Deliverd Outstanding Results.

20 May, 2022 by Joey

Chris did a great job helping me navigate a partner buyout. He took the time to learn about my company and the products we sell so that he could offer the best advice possible, set my expectations at every step of the process, made sure I understood all of the intricacies of our strategy, provided reassurance when needed, and most importantly, delivered a fantastic outcome. He's a strong negotiator and I was lucky to have him working with me. He was also quick to respond to emails and was easy to get on the phone. And he was understanding of my budget and worked to keep hours as low as possible. I would highly recommend Chris to others, and I'll be using him for future legal work!

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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

Best Criminal Defense lawyers in Washington, DC

1,813 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Washington, DC

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?