Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in the U.S.

Every state has great criminal defense attorneys. You may be able to find one by asking a friend for a referral, but not all of your friends will have significant experience with the criminal justice system. If you have used a divorce lawyer or a business attorney in the past, that person may also be able to give you a referral to a criminal defense lawyer.

Another way to research lawyers is to read consumer reviews at websites like Avvo.com. Many excellent attorneys have no reviews and it is always possible for a disgruntled client to leave an unfair review. On the whole, however, consumers who are searching for a criminal defense attorney are likely to gain insight by reading reviews on Avvo.com and similar websites.

The attorneys highlighted in this article have a “superb” rating on Avvo and excellent reviews. Nearly all of the lawyers devote their practices primarily or exclusively to criminal and/or DUI defense. One lawyer is featured from each state, with the exception of South Dakota and Vermont. Those states were omitted because no lawyer from either of those states has both client reviews and a “superb” rating.

Alabama

Devoting his practice exclusively to criminal defense, Richard Jensen handles trials, appeals, and post-conviction matters in state and federal courts throughout Alabama. His clients rave about his diligence, his instincts, his ability to strategize, and his commitment to justice. They consider him not just the best criminal and DUI defense lawyers in Alabama, but one of the best in the country.

Jensen received his law degree from the Birmingham School of Law in 1995. He is a past president of the Baldwin County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. Jensen has been recognized by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Advocates as a Top 10 Criminal Defense Lawyer and by the National Trial Lawyers as one of Alabama’s Top Trial Lawyers.

Jensen’s office is in Huntsville (855-769-6772). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Alaska

During eleven years of service as a public defender, Wally Tetlow represented thousands of clients in felony cases. Since entering private practice, his zealous representation of clients in criminal and DUI cases has earned the respect of judges and peers. His clients admire his professionalism, his prompt attention to their needs, and his compassion. His reviews also comment upon his commanding presence in the courtroom and his skillful cross-examination of witnesses.

Tetlow graduated from California Western School of Law in 1993. He is a board member and past president of the Alaska Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Best Lawyers in America named him a Best Lawyer in the criminal defense category.

Tetlow practices with Tetlow Christie, LLC in Anchorage (907-274-4621). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Arizona

With experience as an Air Force JAG officer and as a prosecutor, Janet L. Altschuler has seen criminal cases from a variety of perspectives. Her clients call her a fighter who gets the job done without beating around the bush. From domestic violence to drug cases, clients report their satisfaction with the dismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea agreements that Altschuler has obtained for them.

Altschuler was awarded a law degree by Tulane University Law School in 1992. She is a member of the Pima County Bar Association. Altschuler was recently named one of the Top Arizona Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Altschuler’s office is in Tucson (855-977-0892). Her Avvo rating is 9.8.

Arkansas

Debra J. Reece decided to practice criminal defense because she got tired of seeing police treat constitutional rights as if they were mere suggestions. Her Avvo reviews stress her open communication with clients. Reviewers say Reece is honest and respectful in her interaction with clients. They also laud her aggressive and passionate approach to achieving good results.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Bowen School of Law awarded Reece a law degree in 2003. She is an Adjunct Professor at Bowen School of Law. Reece serves on the Board of Directors of the Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Super Lawyers has repeatedly named her one of the Mid-South Rising Stars.

Reece’s office is in Russellville (479-316-0443). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Colorado

Jay Tiftickjian concentrates his practice on the defense of DUI charges. The Avvo reviews submitted by Tiftickjian’s clients commend his hard work, his attention to detail, and his thorough knowledge of the law. Many clients who benefitted from Not Guilty verdicts, dismissals, and favorable plea agreements cite his masterful advocacy on their behalf during trials, motion hearings, and negotiations.

Tiftickjian was granted a law degree by the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law in 2000. He chairs the Professional Development Committee of the Colorado Criminal Defense Institute and sits on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar Association. Tiftickjian has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, was named Best DUI Lawyer by Law Week Colorado, and was named a Top Colorado Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Tiftickjian’s office is in Denver (303-991-5896). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Connecticut

From violent crimes to DUI, from drug cases to juvenile offenses, John P. Thygerson helps individuals with a wide range of criminal charges. His clients are impressed by his ability to “level the playing field” when the government brings its immense resources to bear as it seeks criminal convictions. Thygerson’s Avvo reviews also comment upon his ability to size up the opposition and to develop courtroom strategies that prosecutors cannot overcome.

Thygerson was awarded his law degree from Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in 1995. He is a member of the National College of DUI Defense, the Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and several other professional organizations. He was named one of the Top Connecticut Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association and one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers by the American Society of Legal Advocates.

Thygerson’s office is in Norwalk (203-951-6471). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Delaware

In addition to handling criminal and DUI trials, Patrick J. Collins represents clients in appeals, pardon applications, and expungements. His clients appreciate his ability to explain the law in language they can understand. Reviewers commend his attention to detail and are pleased with the time he spends preparing them for court appearances.

The Widener University School of Law awarded Collins a law degree in 2005. He is chair of the criminal law section of the Delaware State Bar Association. Super Lawyers has repeatedly named him a Rising Star.

Collins practices with Collins & Roop in Wilmington (302-504-6746). His Avvo rating is 9.7.

Florida

Focusing almost exclusively on the defense of DUI charges, Antonio G. Jimenez prides himself on being available to his clients at all times. His Avvo reviews credit his diligent trial preparation for the excellent results he has achieved. Clients say he is a fighter who is assertive in the courtroom while maintaining a friendly and helpful attitude as he carefully explains strategies and possible outcomes.

Jimenez received a law degree by Stetson University College of Law in 2005. He received an advanced law degree from Temple University School of Law in 2015. Jimenez belongs to the National College of DUI Defense. The National Trial Lawyers placed Jimenez on its list of Top Florida Trial Lawyers.

Jimenez’ office is in Miami (786-629-5761). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Georgia

Keith B. Johnson represents clients on a wide spectrum of criminal charges in federal court and in the state courts of Georgia and South Carolina. Client who left reviews on Avvo credit him with saving their careers through skillful negotiation and careful trial preparation. Words that Avvo reviewers use to describe Johnson include compassionate, intelligent, trustworthy, articulate, and honorable.

Johnson earned his law degree from the Michigan State University College of Law in 2008. He serves on the Executive Board of the Augusta Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division. Johnson was named a Top 40 Under 40 by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Johnson works with Trotter Jones LLP in Augusta (706-737-3138). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Hawaii

A former member of the US Army JAG Corps, Timothy Bilecki is now a criminal defense lawyer who focuses his practice on the defense of military members stationed in the Pacific Rim. Bilecki’s clients attribute the successful outcomes he achieves to his attention to detail, thoroughness, and persistence. They also appreciate his skillful cross-examination of witnesses and his ability to paint vivid portraits of innocence in his arguments to juries.

Bilecki received his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law in 2002. He is also a graduate of the National Criminal Defense College. Bilecki is vice president of the National Association of Court Martial Lawyers. The National Trial Lawyers Association designated Bilecki as a Top 40 Under 40. Before entering private practice, Bilecki received the Meritorious Service Medal from the US Army Trial Defense Service.

Bilecki is the managing partner of Bilecki & Tipon, LLLC in Honolulu (808-518-3721). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Idaho

John E. Cutler defends criminal charges in state and federal court, with an emphasis on DUI prosecutions. Cutler’s client reviews emphasize his compassion and devotion to the interests of his clients. They call Cutler a great lawyer and an even better person.

Cutler received his law degree from the Brigham Young University J. Reuben Clark Law School. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. The National Trial Lawyers placed Cutler on its list of Top Idaho Trial Lawyers.

Cutler’s office is in Idaho Falls (208-932-4995). His Avvo rating is 9.6.

Illinois

As a former assistant professor, Vijay R. Sharma takes a scholarly approach to criminal and DUI defense. His clients attest that he “knows his stuff.” In addition to his knowledgeable representation, clients appreciate his willingness to fight and the emphasis he places on reducing the stress in their lives. Clients say that he treats them like neighbors and friends.

Sharma earned his law degree from John Marshall Law School in 2005. He belongs to the American Society of Legal Advocates and the National Lawyers Guild. The National Trial Lawyers placed Sharma on its list of Top 40 Under 40. He also received the Avvo Client’s Choice Award for criminal defense.

Sharma’s office is in Skokie (847-337-2716). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Indiana

After working as a deputy attorney general and deputy prosecutor, Zaki Ali entered private practice and devoted his talents to criminal defense. Clients say he is an honest and dependable lawyer who goes “above and beyond” to achieve the best result. Reviews mention his strength in the courtroom and his down-to-earth attitude when dealing with clients.

Ali’s law degree was awarded by the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University in 1998. He is on the faculty of the prestigious Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College. Ali has been recognized as an outstanding Avvo contributor.

Ali’s office is in Anderson (844-326-3709). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Iowa

Robert G. Rehkemper focuses his criminal practice on DUI defense. His client reviews express satisfaction with his hard work and dedication as well as his commitment to keeping clients fully informed about their cases. Clients are impressed that he leaves no stone unturned and does his homework when preparing a defense. They also comment upon his ability to prevail against nearly impossible odds.

Rehkemper’s law degree was awarded by Drake University Law School in 2002. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association and a criminal law core group member of the Iowa Association for Justice. Rehkemper has named a Great Plains Super Lawyer. He also received the Avvo Client Choice Award.

Rehkemper practices with Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm, PLC in West Des Moines (515-226-0500). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Kansas

Jacquelyn Rokusek worked as a federal prosecutor before she opened her own law office. She now represents clients charged with crimes in state and federal court. Clients are happy with her prompt responses to their concerns. Her Avvo reviews say that she is resourceful and knowledgeable. She is also described as a passionate advocate for her clients.

Rokusek graduated from Washburn Law School in 1994. She belongs to the Association of Women Lawyers and several other professional organizations. Rokusek was named a Super Lawyer by Kansas Super Lawyers and was listed as a Top Kansas Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Rokusek’s office is in Lenexa (913-225-7473). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Kentucky

Julie Kaelin began her career as a public defender, then transitioned into private practice. She has handled several murder trials but defends clients against a wide range of criminal accusations. Her clients refer their friends to Kaelin because she is reliable, trustworthy, and caring. Kaelin’s reviewers also call her a hard-working, tough-minded, “top notch” attorney.

Kaelin obtained her law degree from the Louis D. Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville in 2005. She serves on the board of directors of the Kentucky Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and is a former board member of the Women Lawyers Association of Louisville. Louisville Magazine named her a Top Lawyer in 2014.

Kaelin practices with Faulkner Kaelin in Louisville (502-584-0969). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Louisiana

Although he graduated from law school only four years ago, Jerome W. Matthews Jr. already has an impressive list of accomplishments. This former Marine handled significant cases for a corporate law firm before opening his own practice dedicated to criminal defense. Clients are pleased with his responsiveness to their texts and calls and with his attention to detail. Reviews also agree that Matthews is motivated by professionalism rather than greed.

Matthews earned his law degree from the University of California – Berkeley, Boalt Hall School of Law in 2011. He is a member of the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. The National Trial Lawyers placed Matthews on its list of Top Louisiana Trial Lawyers.

Matthews’ office is in New Orleans (504-247-6411). His Avvo rating is 9.7.

Maine

Having worked as a prosecutor early in his career, Edmund R. Folsom understands that the police are not on the side of anyone they suspect of criminal behavior. Folsom’s ability to put his clients at ease and to negotiate favorable outcomes is reflected in his Avvo reviews. Clients frequently commend his hard work and his efforts to keep them informed as their cases progress.

In 1984, Folsom graduated from the University of Maine School of Law, where he now serves as an Adjunct Professor. He formerly served on the board of directors of the Maine Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys. He earned a President’s Award from that organization and has also been named a Top Maine Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers.

Folsom’s office is in Biddeford (207-517-2892). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Maryland

Massachusetts

David Yannetti served as a prosecutor for ten years before founding his criminal defense firm. Clients say he is tireless and meticulous in his defense of their rights. Avvo reviewers call him a zealous advocate, a compassionate individual, and one of the best lawyers in Boston. They also call attention to the respect he has earned from judges, prosecutors, and other criminal defense lawyers.

Yannetti earned his law degree from Boston College Law School in 1989. He belongs to the Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. U.S. News & World Report named him one of the Best Lawyers in America. He was also named a Super Lawyer by Boston Magazine.

Yannetti’s office is in Boston (617-580-3922). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Michigan

Barton W. Morris Jr. limits his practice to criminal and DUI cases. He has completed training in field sobriety testing and in the scientific principles underlying breath and blood tests for alcohol. His clients say he reduces that scientific knowledge to simple English that helps juries understand the flaws in DUI and drug testing. In addition to praising his knowledge, expertise, and diligent preparation, his clients are impressed with his empathic understanding of the impact that criminal charges have on their lives.

Morris’ law degree was awarded in 1998 by Michigan State University College of Law. He has since graduated from the National Criminal Defense College and the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College. Morris sits on the board of directors of the Michigan Association of OWI Attorneys. He has repeatedly been designated as one of the Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit by DBusiness Magazine. He has also been named a Super Lawyer.

Morris’ law firm is in Royal Oak (248-850-2308). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Minnesota

Lauren Campoli identifies her strength as identifying which cases should be resolved through negotiation and which should be taken to trial. Her clients are impressed with her courtroom demeanor, her command of the facts and law, and her ability to persuade. Her Avvo reviews also say that she is a passionate advocate who “fights tooth and nail” and is willing to get “down and dirty” despite her impeccable manners.

Campoli received her law degree from State University of New York at Buffalo in 2006. She serves on a committee of the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. The American Society of Legal Advocates and the National Trial Lawyers both named her a Top 40 Under 40 while the American Institute of DUI Attorneys named her one of the 10 Best Minnesota DUI Lawyers as measured by client satisfaction.

Campoli’s office is in Minneapolis (612-223-6578). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Mississippi

Lance O. Mixon handles criminal and DUI trials and appeals across the State of Mississippi. One of his clients posted an Avvo review that compares Mixon’s representation to having a “guardian angel” in the courtroom. Mixon’s reviews emphasize his attention to detail, his thorough preparation for court hearings, and his careful explanations of the choices clients must make.

Mixon obtained his law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law in 2006. He belongs to several professional associations, including the National College for DUI Defense. Super Lawyers named Mixon a Rising Star in Criminal Defense and the National Trial Lawyers named him one of the Top Mississippi Trial Lawyers.

Mixon practices with Carmody, Stewart & Mixon in Flowood (601-948-4444). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Missouri

Jennifer Bukowsky obtained the first acquittal in a Boone County murder case in 47 years. Her Avvo reviews credit her ability to win cases that other lawyers regard as hopeless. Clients say she keeps fighting until she wins, amassing favorable evidence and making persuasive arguments that lead to dismissals and acquittals. A common theme in Bukowski’s reviews is how much she cares about her clients.

Bukowsky graduated from the University of Missouri School of Law in 2006. She serves on the State Legislative Affairs Committee of the Missouri State Bar. The Columbia Business Times named her one of Columbia’s “20 Under 40.

Bukowsky’s office is in Columbia (573-443-2288). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Montana

Martin W. Judnich has a varied litigation practice that emphasizes DUI defense. He has the highest Avvo rating of all criminal defense lawyers in Montana. His clients are pleased that he returns phone calls and keeps them informed about the status of their cases. Reviewers say Judnich is “a vibrant, intelligent and dedicated attorney.”

Judnich received his law degree from the University of Montana School of Law in 2002. He is a member of the National College of DUI Defense. He has been chosen as Best Lawyer by readers of The Missoulian and of the Missoula Independent.

Judnich practices in Missoula (406-721-3354). His Avvo rating is 9.2.

Nebraska

The only criminal defense lawyer in Nebraska with a “Superb” rating and reviews on Avvo is Bell Island. His reviews and peer endorsements emphasize his successful results defending DUI prosecutions. He is recommended as an effective and skilled litigator with state-of-the-art knowledge of DUI defense techniques. His peers consider him a leader in the field of DUI defense.

Island’s law degree as awarded by the University of Nebraska College of Law in 1994. He is a sustaining member of the National College of DUI Defense.

Island’s office is in Gering (308-635-4900). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Nevada

While criminal defense is the bulk of Mary D. Brown’s practice, she also defends individuals in civil proceedings who are accused of child abuse or domestic violence. Her clients express gratitude for helping them resume normal lives after being accused of misconduct. Clients also comment upon her friendly attitude and her devotion to achieving the best outcome.

Brown graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1996. She belongs to the Nevada Attorneys for Criminal Justice and several other professional organizations. Desert Companion Magazine named Brown a Top Lawyer in criminal defense and the American Society of Legal Advocates placed her on its list of Top 100 Legal Advocates.

Brown’s office is in Las Vegas (702-793-2197). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

New Hampshire

Nicholas Howie focuses his practice on the defense of DUI cases in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Clients call Howie “a man of his word” who doesn’t make promises he can’t keep. They attribute his Not Guilty verdicts and success in defending against the loss of driver’s licenses to his “brilliant strategies” and extensive knowledge of the law. Clients also appreciate his confidence and his nonjudgmental attitude.

Howie earned his law degree from the Massachusetts School of Law in 2008. He is secretary/treasurer of the Greater Salem Bar Association. Howie has been named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers and was honored as one of the 10 Best DUI Lawyers in Massachusetts by the American Institute of DUI Attorneys Massachusetts. He has also been designated as one of the Top 40 Under 40 by both the American Society of Legal Advocates and the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Howie’s office is in Salem, NH (603-505-8455). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

New Jersey

Alissa D. Hascup represents clients charged with violent crimes, domestic offenses, drug crimes, and all other species of criminal charges. Her Avvo reviews describe her as friendly, knowledgeable, responsive, effective, and talented. Clients say she has a fine legal mind and provides a high level of service. They refer friends because they feel confident that Hascup will take care of their problems.

Hascup earned her law degree from Hofstra University School of Law in 2004. She is the immediate past chair of the New Jersey State Bar Association, Criminal Law Section. The American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys named her one of the 10 Best in New Jersey. She also received the Avvo Client’s Choice Award.

Hascup’s office is in Paterson (201-465-4489). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

New Mexico

Like many criminal defense lawyers, Stephen D. Aarons decided to make a career of defending the accused after reading Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. Aarons’ clients cite his 35 years of experience for conveying the feeling that they have been “taken under the wing of a seasoned professional.” Reviewers praise his careful investigation and preparation. Immigrants are particularly thankful for his ability to resolve criminal charges in a way that protects their immigration status, while members of the military credit his JAG background for the able assistance he gives them in military courts.

Aarons received his law degree from Saint Louis University School of Law in 1979. He belongs to the New Mexico Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. Aarons was designated a Super Lawyer by Southwest Super Lawyers, was named one of the Top Attorneys in Arizona by AZ Magazine, and was listed as one of Arizona’s Top Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers.

Aarons’ office is in Santa Fe (505-984-1100). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

New York

Michael Spano is Board Certified in criminal defense by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Spano defends clients in federal and state prosecutions. His client reviews repeatedly refer to him as “the best” criminal defense lawyer in Syracuse. Clients say he is professional, courteous, responsive, and has mastered the legal system. They also commend his honest, straightforward analysis of their criminal justice problems.

Spano graduated from Syracuse University College of Law in 1992. He is a member of the American College of Board Certified Attorneys. Spano has repeatedly been recognized as a New York Super Lawyer.

Spano’s office is in Syracuse (877-228-5048). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

North Carolina

A former prosecutor, Patrick Roberts now defends individuals in federal and state court accused of white collar crimes, sex offenses, drug crimes, and a variety of other criminal offenses. Clients praise the high caliber representation they receive and the successful outcomes Roberts achieves. Avvo reviewers say that Roberts is firm, direct, and unafraid to take a case to trial if that is the client’s’ best option.

Roberts earned his law degree from the Duke University School of Law in 2000. He served on the Public Affairs Committee for the American Association for Justice. Super Lawyers designated Roberts as a Rising Star while the National Trial Lawyers placed him on its lists of Top 40 Under 40 and Top Trial Lawyers in North Carolina.

Roberts’ firm is in Raleigh (877-317-2110). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

North Dakota

Nick Thornton gained trial experience as a public defender before moving to private practice. According to his Avvo reviews, Thornton knows the law, explains the law to clients in clear terms, and works well with prosecutors (although he also enjoys “sticking it to them”). One of his clients states that Thornton restored his faith in attorneys.

Thornton graduated from the University of North Dakota School of Law in 2006. He is a past president of the North Dakota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Super Lawyers named him a Rising Star in North Dakota.

Thornton practices with the Fremstad Law Firm in Fargo (701-478-7620). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Ohio

Jessica Fallon handles criminal and traffic cases with an emphasis on DUI charges. Clients appreciate her helpful and friendly attitude. They are also impressed with her ability to navigate tricky legal terrain by using her in-depth knowledge of the law after making a careful investigation of the facts. Avvo reviews credit her relentless cross-examination of police officers and lab technicians for the good results she achieves.

Fallon earned her law degree from the Ohio State University Law School in 2005. She serves on the DUI Committee of the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Super Lawyers has recognized Fallon as a Rising Star.

Fallon practices in the Columbus office of Saia & Piatt, Inc. (614-444-3036). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Oklahoma

Rob Henson tries to limit his criminal defense practice to just a few clients at any one time so that he can give each client his undivided attention. Clients who were once represented by other lawyers say they are happy with their decision to hire Henson. Client reviews emphasize his kind, compassionate nature, his trustworthiness, and his dedication to fighting for his clients.

The University of Tulsa College of Law awarded Henson a law degree in 2008. He sits on the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He has been named one of the Top Trial Lawyers in Oklahoma by the National Trial Lawyers Association and is a repeat winner of Avvo’s Client’s Choice Award.

Henson’s office is in Tulsa (918-948-9971). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Oregon

Laura Fine Moro devotes her practice exclusively to criminal defense. One of her clients says she is “an active and sympathetic listener, highly professional and a go-getter.” Other reviewers comment that she “goes the extra mile” for them. They also express gratitude that she provides an aggressive defense for a reasonable fee.

Fine Moro graduated from the University of Kansas School of Law in 1988. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Lane County Law & Advocacy Center. Fine Moro received a Client Satisfaction Award from the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys. She was also named one of the Top Trial Lawyers in Oregon by the National Trial Lawyers.

Fine Moro’s office is in Eugene (541-341-4542). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Pennsylvania

Licensed in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Michelle A. Fioravanti is a criminal defense lawyer whose practice emphasizes DUI defense. Client reviews mention that she gives real assurance without raising false hopes. They also praise her ability to “move mountains” in order to obtain good results. One of her reviewers would vote for her if she decides to run for president.

Fioravanti earned her law degree from Villanova University School of Law in 1989. She belongs to the Chester County Bar Association. Main Line Today Magazine rated her as a Top Lawyer in Criminal Defense while Suburban Life Magazine named her an Awesome Attorney in both Criminal Defense and DUI.

Fioravanti’s office is in Exton (484-772-2240). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Rhode Island

While Matthew T. Marin has been recognized for the excellent results he achieves in DUI cases, his clients also appreciate the quality representation he provides in domestic violence and drug cases. Reviewers like the way he walks them through the process, explaining each step and making sure they are able to make intelligent decisions about their options. Clients also commend his intelligence, responsiveness, and hard work.

Marin graduated from the Roger Williams University School of Law in 2008. He is a member of the National College of DUI Defense. The American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys named him one of the 10 Best DUI attorneys in Rhode Island. He has also been recognized as a Super Lawyer and earned an Avvo Client’s Choice award.

Marin’s office is in Providence (401-753-6146). His Avvo rating is 9.6.

South Carolina

As a former FBI agent, Timothy Clay Kulp knows how important it is for individuals accused of crime to have a good lawyer. Kulp’s Avvo reviews describe him as diligent, responsive, knowledgeable, and cost effective. He takes time to understand his clients’ lives, not just the facts of the case. Clients are pleased with his persistent efforts to obtain satisfying results.

Kulp’s law degree was awarded by the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1978. He belongs to the American College of Board Certified Attorneys. He has been named a Super Lawyer in both criminal defense and in DUI defense. He is also listed as one of South Carolina’s Top Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers.

Kulp’s office is in Charleston (843-314-5379). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Tennessee

Traffic cases, including DUI and alcohol-related driving offenses, are at the core of Sara Compher-Rice’s criminal defense practice. Several Avvo reviewers hired Compher-Rice after deciding that the other attorneys they interviewed were less attentive and confident. They are impressed by her willingness to “fight like a Marine” to obtain the best outcome. They are also pleased that she responds promptly to calls and emails and keeps them informed as their cases move forward.

Compher-Rice received her law degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law in 2002. She is vice-chair of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, DUI Committee. Compher-Rice has been named a Rising Star by Mid-South Super Lawyers and was named a Best DUI Lawyer by The Best Lawyers in America.

Compher-Rice practices with Oberman & Rice in Knoxville (865-249-7200). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Texas

Although his Avvo reviewers express gratitude for his defense of a variety of criminal charges, Robert Hernandez Jr. focuses his practice on DUI defense. Clients say that watching this knowledgeable and aggressive lawyer in court “is nothing short of amazing.” Reviewers note that Hernandez has a knack for selecting favorable juries and that he “tears up the police on cross-examination.”

St. Mary’s University Law School awarded Hernandez a law degree in 2000. Hernandez belongs to the National College of DUI Defense. He was named one of the 10 Best by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys and one of the Top Trial Lawyers in Texas by the National Trial Lawyers Association. He also received an Avvo Client’s Choice Award.

Hernandez practices with Hernandez & Baggett, PLLC in Dallas (214-714-2444). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Utah

A board certified DUI defense lawyer and a graduate of the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College, Glen W. Neeley concentrates his practice on the defense of DUI and drug charges. Clients regard Neeley as the lawyer to hire when other lawyers regard a case as hopeless. Avvo reviewers call Neeley an “amazing” trial lawyer who “just kills it” in court. They credit his work ethic and dedication for the exemplary results he achieves.

Neeley received his law degree from the Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1997. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Utah Business Magazine has repeatedly placed Neeley on its annual list of Utah’s Legal Elite.

Neeley’s office is in Ogden (801-895-4477). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Virginia

Buta Biberaj represents individuals accused of crimes and juvenile offenses as well as individuals who are subject to civil proceedings for domestic abuse. Her tenacious representation and her compassion for her clients are recurring themes in her Avvo reviews. Clients commend her dedication to the pursuit of justice. They say she is “small in stature but a giant in the courtroom.”

Biberaj earned her law degree from George Mason University School of Law in 1993. She is a founding member of the Loudoun chapter of the Virginia Women Attorneys Association. Biberaj was named one of the Top Criminal Defense Lawyer in Virginia by the American Society of Legal Advocates, one of the Top DUI Attorney in Virginia by The National Advocacy For DUI Defense, and one of the Top Trial Lawyers in Virginia by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

Biberaj practices with Biberaj, Snow & Sinclair, P.C. in Leesburg (703-779-2000). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Washington

Andrea “Andy” Robertson defends clients accused of felonies, misdemeanors, and alcohol-related driving charges. Her Avvo reviews consistently mention that clients never receive unhappy surprises because Robertson always tells them what to expect at every stage of the case. Clients also agree that Robertson is empathic, understanding, and a true advocate for their best interests.

The University of Washington School of Law awarded Robertson a law degree in 1998. Among other organizations, Robertson belongs to the Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice and the Washington Defender Association. She has been recognized by Super Lawyers and has been named a Rising Star by Washington Law & Politics Magazine.

Robertson’s office is in Seattle (206-395-5257). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

West Virginia

Jason Glass is a DUI defense attorney. Clients attribute his successful outcomes to his vast knowledge of DUI laws. His ability to find procedural errors benefits his clients by saving their driving privileges and avoiding other serious consequences of a DUI charge.

Glass received his law degree from the West Virginia University College of Law in 2005. He is secretary of the West Virginia DUI Defense Lawyers Association and a state delegate to the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Glass has been designated a Rising Star by Super Lawyers.

Glass’ office is in Clarksburg (304-551-0762). His Avvo rating is 10.0.

Wisconsin

Syovata Edari concentrates her practice on the defense of federal criminal charges and on appeals of federal and state convictions. Clients praise her professionalism while appreciating that she treats them like friends. Her reviewers say she works hard to defend their reputations as well as their innocence. One client said Edari will “fight until she is blue in the face.

Edari earned her law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 2001. She belongs to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws and the Fine Chocolate Industry Association, along with more traditional professional memberships. Edari was named one of the Top Trial Lawyers in Wisconsin by the National Trial Lawyers and was recognized as a Legal Innovator by the State Bar of Wisconsin.

Edari’s office is in Madison (608-234-4818). Her Avvo rating is 10.0.

Wyoming

Born and raised in Caspar, J.D. Whitaker has practiced law for almost 65 years. In addition to being experienced, he is described as compassionate and knowledgeable. A peer endorsement calls Whitaker as “a superb litigator.”

Whitaker received his law degree from the University of Wyoming College of Law in 1986. U.S. News & World Report placed him on its list of Best Lawyers in America. He was also named one of the Top Trial Lawyers in Wyoming by the National Trial Lawyers.

Whitaker’s office is in Caspar (855-336-0510). His Avvo rating is 9.3.