6 Sep
Topics covered in this blog: What is Fingerprint Evidence?...Read More
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 Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Attorneys have a proven track record.
MORE 5 STAR REVIEWS THAN ANY CRIMINAL DEFENSE FIRM IN UTAH
Contact Us for a FREE Case Review
Call: 801-980-9965 or Complete and Submit:
Call: 801-980-9965 or Complete and Submit:
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?
Schedule a FREE Consultation to Discuss the Best Defense Strategy for Your Case. Call NOW! 801-980-9965
Legal Practice Areas
Client Testimonials
Our #1 goal is to provide you with successful results, period.
Lane and paul were great to work with my boyfriend was facing a felony and the team was great to work with fast responsive and kept us in the loop... I would highly recommend the lawyer to anyone I know anyone I know
Brandi Perry
23:27 09 Sep 21
My experience with Paul And Lane were fantastic they were on top of it I was facing a felony and it was dropped to an infraction I was very pleased with there services... Thanks to them and there amazing team I would highly recommend you
chaise barlow
23:16 09 Sep 21
Working with Lane and the team at Wasatch Defense Lawyers brought so much relief and peace to us during a very stressful and emotional time. Lane is always quick to respond and great at keeping us in the loop. I felt like we were able to work with them to find the solutions and outcomes that we needed and Lane was able to deliver. They have a genuine concern for their clients and want the best results. I would definitely recommend them.
McKenna Malamala
22:49 31 Aug 21
Definitely the people you want to call if you're in need of a defense attorney. Lane was extremely helpful in getting me through a very stressful situation & put my mind at ease from the first time speaking with him all the way through till the end. I'm from out of state so was very concerned about having to deal with a court system I'm unfamiliar with but Lane took care of everything! If you need legal assistance these are the people you need to talk to.
Nik Effgen
21:59 20 Aug 21
Lane was great! Very responsive and was a great fit for the needs that we had. Couldn't say better things about Lane. Thank You.
Andrew & Matthew Wood
19:39 23 Jul 21
Lane was amazing. I loved the great experience that I had with him. He was fast in responding, and helped out tremendously in our situation. He was very empathetic and was all around a great service.
Matthew Cave
19:36 23 Jul 21
Lane was amazing! He listen to us and was there for us every step of the way. He was able to help us in our situation in our time of need and was prompt on getting us a solution!
Cydney Belden
17:33 23 Jul 21
Helped me with multiple cases and have always been there for me
Kristopher Thomas
16:57 21 Jul 21
Mark brain is a great attorney he really cares about his clients . I would definitely recommend to my friends and family
kanesha cotton
16:07 20 Jul 21
Very professional, informative, and helpful!
Frank Claverie
16:37 14 Jul 21
I want to thank the team for all the time and effort that was put into my case. I was falsely accused of a crime and I had never been in trouble with the law in my life. this accusation turned my life upside down and put me out of work instantly. I brought my case to the team and they looked at me with confidence after interviewing me and stated this is false and we will get your life back to normal. My case seemed to drag on forever and we were to the point of trial in just a few days. I want to report that today 6/14/2021 my case was dismissed by the state, after Ms.Campbell and the rest of her team provided the evidence that the Private investigator found to the state. I Highly recommend this firm. Thank you again for giving me my life back
Brandon T WiseFamily
19:47 14 Jun 21
Helped me get through my problems that were happening and I appreciate them for helping me. They got on my case really fast and got the job done.
MightyMouseIV
03:24 12 Jun 21
My family and I are beyond impressed by the service that the Wasatch team offered. They are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and very responsive.We were faced with some legal issues that left our minds spinning with questions and fear. Lane stepped right up to the plate by offering his full support both professionally and personally. There was not a single phone call to Lane that didn’t leave me feeling more tranquil and confident about our case. He was always there to reassure me that we were on track and treated me like a friend and not just a client.After the initial intake, Jeanne was assigned to our case and she boldly navigated us through the justice system with ease. Her educational background and prior law experience exceeded my expectations by far. She fought for the best outcome for my son and kept us informed with the decisions along the way.I waited for our case to be over to post this review so I could offer the full picture. The Wasatch Team is absolutely incredible and I would never trust another firm. My son has a second chance at life because of this firm and for that, I will be forever grateful.If you are looking for an experienced, knowledgeable, confident team, choose Wasatch. From the first call to the end hearing, they will fight for your rights and undeniably get you results!
carrie hernandez
20:44 04 Jun 21
Highly recommend Lane and Jeanne they took my calls any minute of the day and always got back quick. First time I needed a lawyer, and I wouldn’t look anywhere else. They will have our business if we need any services they offer in the future.
Christopher Hernandez
20:01 04 Jun 21
Walking into Wasatch was the most calming and customer oriented experience ever. Their knowledgeable team and expertise gives you the kind of tranquility that no other person can offer. Within minutes you can tell that these men are GODS in their fields and can absolutely dominate any case given to them. Their ability to speak in Lamens terms to help you understand the entirety of the situation is the only confidence that will carry you through the storm - best lawyers ever!!
Evan Kwan
23:51 09 May 21
The wasatch team are ABSOLUTE A-Listers. They delivered the most elite customer experience and have set the bar SO high for any other lawyer I might have to work with. Laine and Craig’s team work in upmost unity and understand the best ways to maneuver any situation. Their diverse portfolio and strong education and background gave me the most confidence in them as my representation- would NEVER go with anyone else.
Evan Kwan
23:48 09 May 21
I loved working with Laine and Craig!! Extremely professional, budget friendly and the most KICKASS lawyers and paralegals that you’ll ever meet. They have such high levels of professionalism and are the most transparent and right to the point lawyers EVER. They have a sincere care for their clients and you wouldn’t EVER want to go with anyone else - they’re the definition of number one.
Kwan Corporate
23:45 09 May 21
Excellent Law Firm, Lane and Paul we're very attentive and answered all my questions. Impressive work, my case was dismissed thanks to Wasatch Law Firm, their attorneys are an impressive team, highly recommended.
Brenda bunnyboo
20:22 28 Apr 21
My experience with Wasatch Defense was incredible. Craig is an amazing layer followed by Lane his amazing paralegal, they have been following up with my case till the end. I Highly recommended this place!
Max Perez Resendiz
14:19 21 Apr 21
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
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.