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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 Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys have a proven track record.
MORE 5 STAR REVIEWS THAN ANY CRIMINAL DEFENSE FIRM IN UTAH
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.
Have you been arrested for a crime in Salt Lake City or any area in Utah?
Contact us for a FREE consultation to discover your best defense strategy. Call NOW! 801-980-9965
Legal Practice Areas
Client Testimonials
Our #1 goal is to provide you with successful results, period.
My experience with wasatch defense lawyers was unique. They were always very responsive and accommodating as far as scheduling appointments and answering questions. At one point Lane said I could come in every day if needed or call if I ever had questions. They were great about working with my crazy schedule, answering my questions and responding to my emails. These things I would expect of any good legal group. What truly set them apart for me was the care, compassion, and empathy that Craig and Lane showed throughout my time with them. Craig specifically towards the end of my time with there legal group was amazing. He was supportive, encouraging and billed more then fairly which on a human level spoke volumes to me. I deeply appreciate Craig and Lane for all these things and wish them all the best.
Kiran Farris
16:59 15 Apr 21
Lane has worked hard to give us the quality representation we were promised. We have been pleased with the representation we have received.
Victor Hugo
18:24 31 Mar 21
Working with the Wasatch Team this past year has far by exceeded my expectations. I had the pleasure to work with Layne, not only was he personable and understanding he went out of his way to make sure I received the best service possible.I highly recommend Wasatch Defense and especially Layne.Thank you so much for working with me and helping me get passed this last year.
larissa pearce
16:40 30 Mar 21
Highly recommend Lane and Marc they took such good care of our family, they took my calls late into the night when I was scared and confused as my family had never had the need for a criminal lawyer.They will have our business if we ever need this type of service in the future.All other lawyers were double the price.Thank you so much for everything, Mamma Bear will never forget your kindness and understanding.Sincerely,The Held & Coupe families.
Toni Held
15:28 20 Mar 21
Great team of lawyers. But if your superstitious be warned they are on the 13th floor.
Kris-Tina May
01:47 20 Mar 21
Mark and Lane assisted me amazingly through navigating this legal process. Very knowledgeable. Helped me keep my stress levels in line till sentencing. Now will wait the 12 months and go back to have the charge expunged. Awesome work gents. Highly recommend this firm amd the amazing team.
B K
19:57 17 Mar 21
So far I've been very impressed with Wasatch Defense Lawyers, Lane is very responsive, comunicates well and easy to talk to.I'm still fighting my case and feel like I've got great defense by my side.🤞 It turns out well!!Highly recommend these guys to anyone looking for affordable defense for your case.☺️
Nicole Simmons
18:25 24 Feb 21
I called many places felt like only interest was $$$$!!Then I spoke to Lane at Wasatch Defense Lawyers, instantly felt like someone has my back and genuinely wanting to defend my case.He is very responsive, super easy to talk to.I highly recommend choosing them to defend you.
willcole willcole
18:09 24 Feb 21
This place really takes care of their people. Layne is exceptional and responded to calls promptly and assures you that everything will be ok. If you are looking for lawyers that care and truly want to see you succeed contact this place. My outermost respect for all the people that work here specially Layne. He truly is the face of the company and has the most uplifting words not only as the paralegal but as a person. Very trustworthy, loyal, reputable people. They are worth every cent.
Stephanie Osorio
21:20 25 Jan 21
Lane and Paul at Wasatch Defense Lawyers were incredibly responsive whenever I had questions, and they took the time to walk me through everything to be sure I understood what was happening and what the next steps were. During a very stressful and confusing ordeal, their care and professionalism assured me that my family member was in good hands. Even though this is a very busy law firm, they went above and beyond my expectations. I highly recommend this firm.
Jennifer Swaner
16:21 23 Jan 21
The team at Wasatch Defense Lawyers is incredible. I was very impressed with their professionalism and dedication to my case. I could not have felt more supported. Their knowledge and guidance is unmatched. I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thank you for believing in me and working so hard to give me a fresh start!
Holly Roberts
05:49 18 Dec 20
Wasatch defense attorneys is the best team to work with! They are very helpful in all aspects of their field and are always there for you outside of it! Lane is AMAZING in and out of the office he walked me through everything and has the best interest in everyone! 10/10 would recommend to anyone!
Mckenzy Young
18:09 09 Dec 20
I would recommend everybody my family my friends to the Wasatch defense lawyer‘s they are honest they fight for the truth when you feel like the end has come they make you feel like you’re part of their familyWhen I first called them I feel like the whole entire world was going to end by the time we were finished in court it was one happy day the weight of the world lifted Even with all the COVID-19 stuff going on they were still there to help and fight for my rights I would definitely return for their services I would definitely return for their hospitality overall if I could leave them 100 stars I wouldPS. Awesome job and thank you so much me and my family are very grateful you guys are amazingSincerely Jason Martinez
Claudia Martinez
00:16 02 Dec 20
These guys took the time to answer my questions in detail, did not cost me a cent. Its more about helping people for them, not money. Thanks Lane!
Justin Cross
18:47 02 Nov 20
I would highly recommend Wasatch defense lawyers to anyone! The were so easy to work with and made my experience amazing. The staff was friendly, helpful and replied super fast!
Kylie Williams
17:23 02 Nov 20
I would recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers to anyone! They’re super professional and easy to work with. Great response time too!
Kylie Boska
02:36 22 Oct 20
Very professional, they helped me out a lot. I recommend them to anyone in trouble.
Justin Clark
23:51 17 Oct 20
Wasatch Defense Lawyers have helped me immeasurably. My life would be much different in this moment, if it weren’t for their talented and caring team members. I hit a rough patch in my life, I made some mistakes, and I found myself at the receiving end of some very serious charges. WDL were there for me, 100%. They never judged me, and they listened to my story with compassion and knowledge. I owe so much to the good people at WDL, who were able to step up and help me in areas where I was unable to help myself. I have to express extra appreciation for Lane, and Mark Brian, who not only helped me through a rough time, but also listened to my story and considered who I was as a person. They did so much more than go through the motions. For their help and support I will always be grateful. With people like this working the uphill side of our law system, I know I always have a number to call, if I ever, or anyone I know, needs help when they’ve fallen on hard times. Thank you, Wasatch Defense Lawyers. You gave me my life back.Very Sincerely,David Black
David Black
02:13 10 Oct 20
Very caring about ones’ case, great attorneys friendly knowledgeable and professional!
Hugo and Jordan Díaz-Halliday
17:15 09 Oct 20
Hands down the BEST attorneys out there!! You want some serious, no bs law firm at your back, Wasatch Defense Lawyers (Lane handled my case) is seriously the ONLY firm I would honestly recommend. They are amazing, they care, and when I got in touch with them, scared out of my mind, Lane was seriously the only one who didn't make me feel worse about my situation by treating me like some common criminal. Lane handled my case seriously and faster than I ever imagined. I could go on for days about how happy I am with this firm. With all sincerity, thank you for everything.
Kimberly N
16:09 01 Oct 20
When working on my husband's case I couldn't have asked for a better team. They were always communicating the next steps and in the end handled business as needed. They were kind, professional and hard working.
Alexandra Compton
23:39 29 Sep 20
WOW, what can I say! Thanks again toCraig and Lane, they are Fantastic.I was not sure what to do with my situationSo I Gave Them a Call. They scheduleAn appointment with me later that day.Before I left their Offices, they had alreadyStarted moving forward with mySituation. By the next day we wereFinishing up with the Details andMoving forward. Hopefully a very fastRESOLUTION To the Issue.Thanks again, Tod S.
ubbertracker elkness
16:42 27 Sep 20
Hands down the best law firm out there. I Highly recommend anyone to Wasatch Defense Lawyers. They worked tirelessly to make sure that the truth was told. They went above and beyond and did everything they could to ensure a great outcome. Lane always has a calm and confident presence. Lane was always there to answer questions and reassure that things will be fine. They relived so much stress and anxiety. Thank you again Craig and Lane for absolutely everything!
R B
06:07 24 Sep 20
This team helped me out a difficult situation with compassion and professionalism. My problems were addressed quickly and in a way that I always understood the legal ramifications. I feel they guided me along the wisest path I could have taken, given some very tricky circumstances.
Ken Guappone
18:30 16 Sep 20
if you want someone that is going to take their time with your case, you need to call Wasatch Defense! Every step of the way they always had a plan and never made any mistakes. I'm very happy with the outcome of my case.
• Carouseh •
19:35 14 Sep 20
Super helpful team! During one of the most stressful times in my life everyone here went above and beyond to make me feel at ease. Their professionalism and caring attitudes really made me feel like more that just another case number.
Alex Jackson
02:01 11 Sep 20
I was lucky enough to work with these guys and they were everything I wanted and needed! Friendly, professional, and very attentive. I was very satisfied with their work.
Randall Olson
16:11 07 Sep 20
I have personally worked alongside one of their team members and was able to see the professionalism of this firm and their team firsthand. I would recommend this firm to anyone needing professional help/guidance as well as a successful case.
Joel Stanford
01:21 06 Sep 20
Everyone at the firm was attentive to my needs and extremely knowledgeable. And even more important, they were able to swiftly alleviate a situation that I thought would ruin my life. They absolutely saved the day--- Thank You!!!
Doug Brunt
22:11 05 Sep 20
We were visiting Utah and had a legal situation arise. It was a complete mess. We are grateful we found Wasatch Defense. Craig is an excellent attorney. Lane was extremely patient and communicated throughout the stress of this situation. Thank you guys! I recommend this law firm to anyone.
Susan Wyatt
23:26 04 Sep 20
Responsive and professional to say the least! Wasatch Defense Lawyers were more than helpful! They were there for me when I needed them most. This team will have your back!
Dave Wright
16:37 29 Aug 20
These guys are great! Super fast response time, and very helpful and friendly. Thanks so much Lane!
Ashley Collins
16:03 26 Aug 20
I have to give a big kudos to Lane. He has been the most helpful knowledgeable individual. It doesn’t matter when or what time of day. He has devoted a lot of attention to detail to every case and gone above and beyond.
Debbie Martens
22:47 03 Aug 20
I would definitely recommend this firm to anyone in need of a criminal defense.
badass 3rd gen
16:10 24 Jun 20
Layne & Paul have been absolutely amazing helping me with my case!!!! Paul fought hard for me and came out with a great deal still! It was my first criminal charge ever so I am so grateful I found them they show they truly care about their clients! Will always recommend!
Wendy Alanis
03:20 16 Jun 20
This team knows exactly what their clients need and does a great job of navigating through treacherous waters! You will have 110% peace of mind that any case involving you is being managed with the utmost integrity, resilience, persistence and with timely resolution. In the event that circumstances lead you to believe you may need an aggressive and experienced legal team, don't second guess it and engage Wasatch Defense Lawyers and you will not be sorry. Jjh
James Hamel
00:49 27 May 20
My son was facing Life in prison . From the initial consultation Craig, Jeannie, Lane was honest and was always available with questions and concerns. They would always keep us informed throughout the whole process. There Investigation team always kept us informed as well. During the trial Jeannie and Rudy would brief us before and at the conclusion of the day. They were very organized. The jury’s verdict was not guilty of all charges except for obstruction of justice which they said there representing my son until the end. We’re very grateful for all there efforts. It’s rare to have a team that genuinely cares for there clients.Thank You Wasatch Team.
Elbert Paule
20:39 14 Apr 20
I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers. They helped us resolve our case quickly. They were always available to talk about our concerns and helped ease the stress we we're going through. The most honest law firm in Utah!
debra wade
18:26 01 Apr 20
Wasatch Defense Lawyers are the most stand up group of professionals you can work with in Salt Lake! I was in a bind and talked to several attorneys in the valley and by far they are the best. I felt that they truly cared about my circumstance and can honestly say they went above and beyond to help me and my family in a time of need. Our calls were always answered and they were very accommodating on appointments.
Travis Wade
22:17 26 Mar 20
Amazing lawfirm, I highly recommend them.
Jack Wade
22:07 26 Mar 20
Brittany is hands down the BEST paralegal in the state that I've had the pleasure of knowing. Keep up the fantastic work!
Isaiah Davis
22:29 04 Mar 20
Incredible group. Highly professional. They took the time to listen to me, and my case then got the job done in a manner that I could not even imagine. I talked with a number of lawyers in the past, but these guys really listen and help out.
Thomas
23:37 27 Feb 20
Recent News
Meet Our Utah Criminal Defense Attorneys
Craig R. Chlarson, Esq.
Criminal Defense, Family & Bankruptcy LawCraig R. Chlarson is known as one of the most aggressive and highly skilled criminal defense attorneys in Utah. Meet with him today … prepare an aggressive defense … and fight back!
Read Profile
Jeanne T. Campbell, Attorney at Law
Criminal Defense, Family & Bankruptcy LawJeanne T. Campbell, Attorney at Law has a mission to provide affordable, qualified legal representation and protect the integrity of the criminal justice system. Meet with her today!
Read Profile
Language Translation Available
Wasatch Defense Lawyers is happy to make an interpreter available. We also have fluent German and Spanish speaking attorneys.
Utah’s Wasatch Defense Attorneys aggressively defend your rights and your quality of life.
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 Defense 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 Defense Lawyer 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.
How Can a 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.