Top Criminal Defense Lawyer in Utah

Protecting Your Freedoms

Contact our strategic defense attorneys to help you understand your legal rights and options. From theft crimes and drug charges to DUI and sex crimes, our Award-Winning Criminal Defense Attorneys in Salt Lake City, have a proven track record. With over 650 trials to our credit, our defense team is prepared to go all the way.

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Track Record of Winning

We have a reputation for achieving excellent results. Fewer than 1% of our clients have ever been incarcerated.

Award Winning Utah Law Firm

We are proud recipients of the America Jurisprudence Award for Excellence Achievement in the Study of Advocacy”.

We Protect Your Rights

Your constitutional rights are inalienable and we pride ourselves in protecting and defending them every step of the way.

No-Obligation Case Review

Take advantage of consulting on your case with an experienced attorney who listens and reviews your situation for free. There’s nothing to lose, contact us now.

Military Discounts

We are proud to support our troops with an exclusive discount for veterans for all our professional legal services.

100+ Years of Experience

Criminal cases can be unfair and the consequences hefty. We have successfully represented thousands of clients in Utah.

Criminal Defense Attorney Salt Lake City Client Testimonials

Our #1 goal is to provide you with successful results, period.
Awesome team! Helped me through every step of my case. Would recommend!!!!!!!
Felipe Zamora (Tito)
Felipe Zamora (Tito)
17:36 10 May 23
Reed is amazing!
Michael Holbrook
Michael Holbrook
17:55 02 May 23
I don't think I have enough space here to fully detail how much I appreciate these guys! Here are a few highlights from my experience:Anytime I had a question and reached out to Lane, he responded immediately. I always knew what was happening throughout the process and I had the information I needed.The team provided very realistic expectations for the outcome of my case and I never felt like I was being under-represented. I believe they always had my best intentions in mind while working on my case and provided a sense of calm during a very stressful time which was a relief for me and my family.Their level of professionalism was very confidence inspiring and I am grateful that I choose them to represent me!
Cameron W
Cameron W
00:47 22 Mar 23
Wasatch defense lawyers were with me in every step of my DUI conviction and truly cared, helped, and offered support. Its very challenging to put into words everything that happened especially considering that I had to also make enormous life changes as well. Firstly, getting a DUI is a very challenging experience. Paul Johnson, the lawyer whom I worked with, set me up with so much success in the realm of emotional support that I cannot express enough of my heart-felt thanks. We had so much down to earth conversations in between our deliberations, and most importantly he was honest about how all this works. Essentially, getting a DUI is an incredibly idiotic thing to do, and you must reexamine your life and change who you are to get past it. Paul helped me so immensely in the early months of my sobriety and talking to him about it was so uplifting. During that last court date, where we got everything sorted out what he told me in person really hit home. He told me that he saw that I was a person willing to change and accept what I did. That alone has continued to drive me to sobriety to this day.Its odd to describe a service in such an emotional way, but honestly the entire process has a lot of emotion to it. Even the people working here that are not lawyers are equally valuable in all the support I needed. There are some hard truths to getting a DUI, and its not easy but I can say for certain that this would be the first organization that I would recommend to anyone in a situation like this.
Mason Phipps
Mason Phipps
17:12 10 Mar 23
Lane followed through with what he promised, we were pleased with the outcome and he definitely knew what he was doing and offered the best advice.
Mandi Fernlund
Mandi Fernlund
03:00 02 Mar 23
Wasatch defense team are best defense lawyers i have had The pleasure of doing business with. They are my one and only go to when I need help
Jake Vasquez
Jake Vasquez
19:52 16 Feb 23
Tyler handled my case quickly and efficiently. He was the second attorney I hired. The first attorney made me weary. As soon as I spoke with Tyler I felt better. Two weeks later all of my problems were gone and I can’t thank him enough. The weight lifted off my shoulders allowed a breath I hadn’t had in months. Thank you again Tyler, I really, really appreciate you.
Tyler Mandgie
Tyler Mandgie
18:49 16 Feb 23
I contacted Wasatch Defense Lawyers for some legal advice. They had me come into their office to meet their team. Lane sat me down with a few of their most experienced attorneys. I can't remember the exact number, but these guys have decades of experience collaboratively. This law firm is the real deal and they know what they're talking about. I definitely feel a lot safer having them in my corner. Thank you Wasatch Defense team.
Tyler Gressmen
Tyler Gressmen
21:56 30 Jan 23
I needed the help of Wasatch Defense Lawyers as of late and I am beyond impressed. They are an amazing team of lawyers who are understanding, kind, caring, and compassionate. They were always available to answer my questions and provide me with the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers to anyone in need of legal assistance. They are a great team of professionals who truly care about their clients and I am so glad I chose to work with them.
B G
B G
19:33 11 Jan 23
I cant recommend enough Wasatch defense lawyers. My dad was falsely accused with some serious charges, but thankfully the amazing team of Wasatch defense had everything under control. They collected so much evidence and did an incredible job proving my Dad's innocence in court. Pick Wasatch Defense for your loved ones, their very freedom may depend on it.My family and I are forever grateful for the impeccable job that our main attorney Bryan Sidwell did.
Karla Guevara
Karla Guevara
05:55 11 Jan 23
Wow - I was in a tight spot on a Friday night feeling very anxious about a very legitimate sounding scam, one in which would caused great harm to me and my family and I was visibly shaken. Lane, quickly calmed me down and assured me I was going to be ok. Thanks much
Kevin Rawson
Kevin Rawson
23:26 16 Dec 22
Wasatch Defense Lawyers gets amazing results! They took a bad situation and got my son through it okay. We don't know what we would have done without them.
Greg Stewart
Greg Stewart
04:40 09 Dec 22
Brian Sidwell is absolutely amazing in the courtroom! He saved my son’s life and our family will always appreciate everything Wasatch Defense Lawyers has done for us.
Charlotte Stewart
Charlotte Stewart
04:28 09 Dec 22
If you're looking for the best defense attorneys, you've found it! Wasatch Defense is professional, responsive and amazing! I got a better outcome than I could have ever hoped for. Scott is incredible and I wouldn't go anywhere else
Naomi Owen
Naomi Owen
18:27 11 Nov 22
Wasatch Defense Lawyers, best Law Firm in Utah! You get a full team on your side.
Bobbie Herrera
Bobbie Herrera
00:52 30 Sep 22
Wasatch Defense is Highly Recommended! They are very professional, helpful & knowledgeable in so many areas. Lane has been a delight to work with. He is “on it” every time we have a question or concern. Mark Brian is very attentive to his clients & their concerns & Mark is an excellent attorney! All phone calls or texts are ALWAYS answered in a very timely manner. If you need help with Criminal Defense in or around Salt Lake City, I would absolutely recommend this law firm!
Kathy Keltner
Kathy Keltner
09:26 29 Sep 22
Go to these people if you need help. They will do everything and more to make sure you are taken care of. Thank you Wasatch Defense Lawyers and attorney Mark Brian!
JD Probst
JD Probst
18:54 27 Sep 22
Great results from Wasatch Defense Lawyers! Scott ;Wilding was responsive to my needs, and exceptionally skilled in court. I couldn't recommend WDL more!
Elle Probst
Elle Probst
18:52 27 Sep 22
Wasatch Defense Lawyers are the best of the best. During a time when everything felt hopeless, they made me feel calm and reassured me that I was in good hands. 10/10. Would highly recommend.
Patrick B
Patrick B
19:59 23 Sep 22
I just can't say enough great things about this firm. We were completely lost not knowing where to start and then we called Wasatch Defense Lawyers. From the very first phone call they have helped us and continue to help us get through a very difficult situation. Thank you Lane!
S B
S B
16:51 21 Sep 22
This was our family’s first experience with having to hire a legal defense team and we could not have picked a better firm to represent us. Everyone is a true professional, very compassionate, and understands that you are going through a very emotional and stressful event. The Wasatch Defense Lawyers team was by our side throughout the entire process and “had our backs” when we needed them the most to get the best possible outcome. They will fight for you as if you were their own family. Thank you Lane, Craig, and the entire team! If you want the best legal help then these are the people to call.
Frank B
Frank B
18:04 20 Sep 22
GREAT FAST EFFICIENT RESULTS ! I WOULD RECOMMEND THEM TO ANYBODY THATS READY TO BEAT THIER CASE!!
summer Mila
summer Mila
06:28 20 Sep 22
This team did a great job for our family. Would definitely recommend.
JoDee Crowl
JoDee Crowl
15:14 12 Sep 22
Wasatch defense helped a loved one of mine. They really went out of their way to make sure he beat the charges against him. Thank you all so much. I will definitely recommend you guys to everyone I know that’s in trouble.
Morgan Mondragon
Morgan Mondragon
21:42 09 Sep 22
I am so lucky I found Wasatch Defense! They really know what they’re talking about. Scott was three steps ahead the whole time. Thank you all so much!
Devin Davies
Devin Davies
01:21 02 Sep 22
Wow! What a great team! Paul was very professional, and helpful throughout the whole process. I couldn’t have asked for better results! Thank you all so much!
Tyler Hopper
Tyler Hopper
19:26 31 Aug 22
I’ve never had to deal with anything like this before so I had no idea what I was doing. Mark was great. He was very patient with all my questions and concerns. He fought really hard to get the results we wanted. Going to Wasatch defense paid off.
Avery Mondragon
Avery Mondragon
18:22 26 Aug 22
Scott helped me out a ton! He fought hard for a better result and got more than I could have imagined. I would recommend working with him, and the Wasatch defense team, to anyone.
Jacquie Joseph (Jacjac)
Jacquie Joseph (Jacjac)
19:57 25 Aug 22
I would highly recommend Wasatch to anyone that wants a lawyer that truly cares for their clients and will fight for them. They fought to get my brothers daughter back very methodically, carefully, and aggressively. They are top notch! You won't regret choosing them to represent you and your family.
Chris Anderson
Chris Anderson
01:41 24 Aug 22
Everyone I’ve dealt with here at Wasatch Defense has been great to work with. Anytime I call with questions they’re quick to answer and as helpful as they can be.
Kylie C
Kylie C
22:11 23 Aug 22
I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers. They went above and beyond to help us get my granddaughter back!!!! We were truly blessed to have found them. I can't say enough about how professional and kind they were to us and how hard they worked day and night. They always answered our calls and guided us through the worst time in our lives and most importantly they won our case.
Jodie Fresh
Jodie Fresh
23:00 22 Aug 22
Wasatch defense is great! Everyone there is very nice and professional. They respond quickly and answered all the questions I had!
Kacie Calderon
Kacie Calderon
17:15 22 Aug 22
I went through most of my life fortunate to have never needed an attorney but found myself in a situation where there could've been a lot at stake. So glad to have found Lane, Scott, and the rest of the team at Wasatch Defense! While these guys certainly don't 'sugarcoat' things (which is a good quality, in my opinion), they do exactly what they say they're going to do. They're responsive, accessible, and take care of you. I will go through the rest of my life with their phone number in my contacts, that's for sure! If you're in the process of looking for an attorney, do yourself a favor and give them a call.
Lee L.
Lee L.
16:34 22 Aug 22
I was experiencing some serious charges, my LDA wasn't really helping my case. I reached out at about 4:30 on a Sunday they got back to me within the hour. Lane told me how long the court process would take and always helped keep me calm when my mind would race. He told me the results Mark would get me and Mark did exactly that. If I ever have any legal problems they will definitely be the first ones I call. Id recommend them if you want a lawyer who’s worth the money and service!
Isaiah Garay
Isaiah Garay
04:35 20 Aug 22
I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers, the team that works with them are truly top notch!
Jeff O'Laughlin
Jeff O'Laughlin
15:41 19 Aug 22
I couldn’t recommend this company more. Truly thankful for the commitment provided to me. If you are looking for a defense lawyer, this is your first stop to securing a hard-working, honest team that truly places you first.Thank you!
Tony Davis
Tony Davis
19:26 18 Aug 22
Outstanding Law firm, they went beyond for my case and won my case, highly recommend!!
Chach
Chach
19:14 18 Aug 22
My family will only use this firm. We have been so impressed with everyone we've met here. These lawyers are knowledgeable and aggressive and it's always paid off.
Kassy Berensen
Kassy Berensen
23:23 28 Jul 22

Criminal Defense Attorney News

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Meet Our Salt Lake City, Utah Criminal Defense Lawyers

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Wasatch Defense Lawyers is happy to make an interpreter available. We also have fluent German and Spanish speaking attorneys.

Criminal defense attorney awards graphic - Wasatch Defense Lawyers in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City’s Wasatch Defense Lawyers will Aggressively Defend Your Rights and Quality of Life in Utah.

Contact an Award-Winning Criminal Defense Attorney in Salt lake City

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I Hire a Defense Lawyer if I am Guilty?

Yes. A defense lawyer may be able to lower your charges or get them dropped, even if you are guilty. We may even be able to arrange more favorable outcomes such as community service, driving re-education classes, or other measures instead of jail time.

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost?

The exact cost will depend on the particulars of your case. If the case goes to trial, that will add expenses. At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, we offer a range of different rates, structures, and payment plans. Which one you will fall under will depends on the individual details of your case. We offer flat fees, hourly rates, military discounts, and even work on contingencies.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

A criminal defense lawyer’s job is to get you the best possible outcome for your case. We’ll look for mistakes in paperwork or gaps in the prosecutor’s argument. Finally, we can explain your options and repercussions at every step of the process to you. Mistakes you make in paperwork or missed deadlines and court appearances could cost you. Criminal defense lawyers may be able to get your sentence reduced or dropped.

Should I Hire a Criminal Attorney for a DUI Case?

Yes. The State of Utah has just lowered the BAC limit for drivers to .05 percent. This is a sharp reduction from the nationwide average of .08 percent, which makes the state the strictest in the country. A defense lawyer can work to reduce charges, get a reduced sentence, or help with DUI charges to get them totally dropped.

What Is the Most Serious Kind of Crime?

The most serious level of crime is a felony. Misdemeanors are less serious, and infractions are the least serious crimes. Felony crimes are usually classified by first, second, and third degrees of seriousness. The first degree represents the most serious level of offense. The levels of seriousness of crimes determine the corresponding degrees of severity of penalties imposed on people convicted of the offenses.

To clarify, misdemeanors include offenses such as petty theft, vandalism, trespassing, etc. Conviction of a crime at this level does not carry prison time and is limited instead to small fines and other relatively light consequences. By contrast, examples of felony crimes include murder. aggravated assault, kidnapping, arson, etc. Convictions for the most extreme of these crimes can carry long prison sentences or even the death penalty.

What Are the Classifications of Types of Crimes?

Crimes are usually classified as felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. The basic difference between felonies and misdemeanors, in terms of the law, is in the severity of the potential penalties the law requires. Pleading guilty or being found guilty of a more serious crime can be expected to come with a more extreme penalty than a conviction for a lesser offense.

Being convicted of a felony carries penalties ranging from large fines to prison time up to life sentences, even the death penalty. By contrast, a misdemeanor sentence often includes a moderate fine, possibly community service hours, perhaps mandatory counseling, and/or other reformative requirements.
There are many types of crimes. Some basic categories of crimes criminologists recognize include:

  • Violent crimes: such as murder, kidnapping, rape, assault
  • Organized crime: such as racketeering, gambling, trafficking
  • Property crimes: like vandalism, arson, burglary, theft
  • White-collar crimes: like fraud, embezzlement, securities crimes
  • Tech crimes: hacking, spreading viruses.
  • Victimless crimes: such as consensual but illegal adult sexual activity

How Can a Person Avoid Jail Time for a Felony?

The most critical action you will need to take in an effort to avoid prison time for a felony is to contact an experienced Salt Lake City, UT, criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Further, you should diligently do the following while you are facing criminal charges:

  • Exercise your right to remain silent.
  • Stay calm and fully cooperate physically.
  • Call an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you.
  • Clearly understand the charges against you.
  • Tell your lawyer the complete truth. Don’t lie to your lawyer.
  • Do not talk to your friends or family about your case.
  • Do not discuss your case on social media.
  • Do not try to investigate or question witnesses yourself.

How Long Can a Criminal Case Be Left Open Without Any Charges?

Generally, the statute of limitations for bringing a felony charge is three years. However, in some types of cases, the time frame may be longer, such as in fraud, felony sex crimes cases, and possibly others. There is no statute of limitations for bringing a murder charge. Typically, the statute of limitations for bringing a misdemeanor charge is one year.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help in a Personal Injury Case?

A large factor in a personal injury case is proving who is at fault. A defense attorney can negotiating with insurance companies and communicating with other involved parties on your behalf. A defense lawyer can also help you put an accurate monetary value on your injury so you can pursue a settlement.

Why Have a Defense Lawyer for Child Support or Custody Case?

Family law can be a complicated legal tangle. A defense lawyer can help you understand the process, your rights, and your responsibilities. Your lawyer can also help you strengthen your case for a fair custody division, and enforcement of such orders.

What is the Difference Between a Defense Attorney and a Prosecutor?

A defense attorney represents the person who has been accused of a crime. Their objective, if the case goes to trial, is to argue against the validity against the prosecutor’s case. Meanwhile, a prosecutor represents the city, county, or state in criminal cases. They are typically a representative of the District Attorney. They will gather evidence, determine which evidence has merit, and try to persuade the court of the accused’s guilt. The burden of proof is on the prosecutor.

What is a Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Duties and Responsibilities?

A criminal defense lawyer has a variety of duties and responsibilities. These include interviewing their client, investigating the case for grounds for acquittal, assisting with jury selection if a trial occurs, arguing against the prosecutor’s case, and helping with plea bargains and sentencing. Above all, they are expected to understand the law and explain your rights and legal options to you.

Do I Have to Answer Questions From the Police When I’m Accused of a Crime?

You are not legally required to provide any information to a police officer. Do not give any statement to a police officer before you contact a criminal defense lawyer and obtain guidance. If you are concerned that the police are investigating you, an experienced criminal defense attorney will ensure that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.

Why Do People Commit Crimes?

In some cases, alcohol or drug effects can cause a loss of inhibitions and self-control and negative psychological and physiological changes that impact decision-making. The altered mental state can influence behavior and lend to criminal actions. But, in many other cases, substance abuse is not necessarily involved in criminal activity. Naturally, the root causes of crime are too complex to explain fully here.

Most generally speaking, theories of criminal behavior focus on several categories of behavioral factors, including social, psychological, and even biological. Each of the behavioral factors below and others fall into one of those categories of potential contributors to criminal behavior:

  • Poverty
  • Parental neglect
  • Drug addiction
  • Family conditions
  • Societal conditions
  • Peer pressure
  • Unemployment
  • Underemployment
  • Racism
  • Poor health care
  • Bad housing
  • Weak schools
  • Mental illness
  • Low self-esteem
  • Alcoholism
  • Single-parent families
  • Drug addiction
  • Teenage pregnancy
  • Politics
  • Religion