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.
Incredible, professional, exceptional. It's like bringing a bazooka to a knife fight. And they're very generous.
Jeremiah Morgan
Jeremiah Morgan
22:37 25 Sep 23
Just spoke to Ashley and Lane on the phone for an initial conversation. Amazing knowledge if circumstances and processes. Absolutely grateful for the opportunity to work with them on my case.
Dan Hickman
Dan Hickman
00:50 19 Sep 23
I just wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the team who assisted me with my legal questions over the phone. Their prompt response and willingness to help me comprehend the legal complexities truly impressed me.Not only did they patiently explain the legal issues I was facing, but they also took the time to clarify why any misjudgment or misunderstanding on my part would not result in criminal charges. This reassurance alleviated a great deal of stress and anxiety that had been weighing on me.I have learned a valuable lesson through this experience - the importance of good intentions being misunderstood and the potential disastrous consequences that can arise. However, thanks to the guidance and support of this remarkable team, I now have a better understanding of how to navigate similar situations in the future without jeopardizing myself.I am incredibly grateful for their expertise and dedication to helping individuals like myself. The fact that they have agreed to meet with me next week, free of charge, to further educate me on how I can continue assisting others while safeguarding myself from potential jeopardy is truly remarkable.Once again, thank you to the entire team for their outstanding assistance, unwavering support, and for helping me find peace of mind in a challenging situation.
Doug Christensen
Doug Christensen
23:14 15 Sep 23
I am truly impressed by the exceptional service provided by Wasatch Defense. Their team's kindness and responsiveness to my questions made my experience incredibly positive. I wholeheartedly recommend Wasatch Defense to anyone in need of legal assistance
Miguel Rodriguez
Miguel Rodriguez
15:15 26 Aug 23
Wasatch defense Lawyers came though big time for me in a sticky situation. I'd highly recommend them!
Russ G
Russ G
18:16 18 Aug 23
I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers! From day one they have been super attentive to any questions or concerns we may have had. They are highly skilled & knowledgeable. Mark is my son’s attorney and we are extremely pleased with the outcome that Mark was able to get for our son! They go above & beyond what is expected!! Lane & Stacie were also a great help for my son’s case. I am completely impressed with the professionalism, quick responses & in the end the wonderful outcome for our son! They are TOP NOTCH!!!
Kathy Keltner
Kathy Keltner
01:43 10 Aug 23
Lane and his team were very good to talk to and professional.
Jamie Cozort
Jamie Cozort
16:40 08 Aug 23
Ashley Miller and Tyler Ayres were my legal team and I would hire them again In a second. I will also recommend them and Wasatch Defense Lawyers to anyone who needs defending. They are amazing with communication and have your absolute best interest in mind. If I could give more than 5 stars I would in a heartbeat. Thank you Ashley, Tyler and Wasatch for everything!
Vince Militello
Vince Militello
17:56 20 Jul 23
I've been working with Ashley at Wasatch Defense Lawyers and they are absolutely incredible. Ashley is very thorough, attentive, and prompt - she's been wonderful to work with, and my legal matters are on their way to being resolved. I was very confused with the court systems and their fees/requirements when I made the decision to hire a lawyer, and every penny has been money well spent. 10/10 would recommend Wasatch Defense!
Emily Beck
Emily Beck
23:34 17 Jul 23
Far and away the best legal team in the state. They are professional, understanding, knowledgeable and responsive. No matter what the need, they always come through with best resolution.
Just One More
Just One More
17:05 11 Jul 23
Have known people that have received amazing service from Wasatch Defense Lawyers and want to help spread the word. They handle a wide range of cases and can serve all your legal needs. They are professional, responsive and reasonable.
Home Wood
Home Wood
16:59 11 Jul 23
Wasatch Defense Lawyers are incredibly professional and knowledgeable. They were quick to respond to my needs. Lane, Craig and the rest of their staff guided me through some difficult processes and issues. They were able to obtain a very favorable result. Night or day they have been there for me and my family. We use their services for all our legal needs.
Caroline Larson
Caroline Larson
16:52 11 Jul 23
Kind people. They very clearly and articulately explained the legal implications of my actions and how to maneuver through them. I felt well ministered to and I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers.
Drew Zarbock
Drew Zarbock
18:36 14 Jun 23
We are pleased to give the highest recommendation to Wasatch Defense. Our experience with this firm has been nothing short of excellent.From the very first consultation, we were impressed by their professionalism, knowledge, and dedication to solving our legal issues. The attorneys and staff at Wasatch Defense were always available to answer our questions and concerns, providing us with clear and concise explanations of our options and the legal process.Their attention to detail and expertise allowed us to have confidence in their ability to handle our case, and we were not disappointed. They provided us with regular updates and were always transparent about the progress of our case.The team exceeded our expectations and we highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal services. Thank you for your exceptional service and knowledge.
Annmarie Cassano-Harshany
Annmarie Cassano-Harshany
15:22 14 Jun 23
The Wasatch Defense Lawyers are the best. Special shout outs to attorneys Scott and Paul, who were there for my son since the beginning of his nightmare and I also want to thank the lead paralegal, Lane who helped to ease my nerves as well as my families. We do not live in Utah, nor do we know anyone in that state, but it was a blessing that I found them for a very serious situation. For anyone that finds themselves in need of great legal representation in Utah, please contact this firm. They are upfront and will let you know the worst case scenario as well as best case scenarios when it comes to your legal needs. They are honest and will not lead you wrong. Again, I want to thank the entire defense team for having our backs.
LadyLotrice
LadyLotrice
05:04 13 Jun 23
WDL is amazing. Fast response when in need. Thorough. Attentive. Available. Well staffed. Team approach. They do the work and come prepared to win. Highly recommended without reservation.
Mark Harshany
Mark Harshany
03:11 13 Jun 23
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 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

Criminal Defense Attorney News

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Meet Our Salt Lake City, Utah Criminal Defense Lawyers

Language Translation Available

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