A Tough Defense for the Toughest Offenses®

 

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.
Lane and Scott are amazing. I couldn't imagine how we would've gotten through the most stressful time in our lives without this firm. Lane is an amazing human and he truly does want to educate others and guide them, while always remaining very upfront. Always willing to talk, just listen, provide advice and a laugh when you really need it. I would never ever want to sit on the other side across from these gentlemen. Thank you again.
Mrs. C
Mrs. C
23:29 16 Mar 24
Scott, Ashley, and Lane were a tremendous help in a very stressful situation. I highly recommend the Wasatch Defence team.
Empire Holdings
Empire Holdings
02:11 14 Mar 24
Hi I just want to say how wonderful Scott and Lane are.Not just Lawyers but they care not only for their clients but they are very concerned and caring about their clients families!!! Looking for a Lawyer They are the ones Could ask for a better team Thank you so very much. 🥰🥰
Cheryl Ingles
Cheryl Ingles
02:41 06 Mar 24
Darrell is amazing. As was the whole team from day 1. Extremely professional and incredible work ethic. I felt as ease the entire process. Highly recommend.
Amy
Amy
17:43 20 Feb 24
The Wasatch Defense Lawyers are the best team out there and I recommend them 100% to anyone!! They helped me through a very stressful situation and were able to get my case completely dismissed and my record cleared! I’m sure that if I had not gone to them, things would have resulted very differently. They are worth every penny! The moment I signed with them, a weight lifted off my shoulders because I knew I was in good hands and that they would take care of everything, and they did! I felt that they truly cared about me as an individual. Lane was awesome and kept me informed every step of the way. He always answered my messages promptly and reassured me that everything was going to be ok. Scott was also great and fought for me until the very end. Victoria was great too and was always able to quickly get me an appointment when needed. There were others whose names I don’t remember who also helped. The entire team was amazing!! Thank you so much!! I will forever be grateful!! I’m so glad that I found them through these reviews and want to pay it forward to others looking for an attorney. These guys truly are the best! Go with them. You won’t regret it!
Dora Munguia
Dora Munguia
18:17 18 Feb 24
Very professional group. Extremely helpful.
Tony Ortiz
Tony Ortiz
18:48 14 Feb 24
Wasatch Defense is amazing! They work quickly, took my calls/ texts at all different hours, helped me understand everything, I wouldnt go to anyone else.
Marshay Blair
Marshay Blair
15:01 08 Feb 24
Lane, Darrell and their team were incredible to work with. Everyone is so professional. I was very impressed with the work ethic and knowledge they had. They have been working hard for my husband’s case thus far and it makes me feel confident along with heard and supported especially from Darrell and Lane. I appreciate their whole team. I would definitely recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers to anyone needing counsel!
Diana Sanaphanh
Diana Sanaphanh
01:27 06 Feb 24
Very impressed with the service they provided, prompt response to questions, issues resolved in a timely manner.
Squatch
Squatch
17:29 05 Feb 24
Scott did a great job with my case I couldn’t have expected a better outcome would definitely recommend
Inkedbyerik Tattoos
Inkedbyerik Tattoos
17:55 23 Jan 24
Best of the best, Lant Clark gets it done quick and clean.
Aizdan
Aizdan
19:04 18 Jan 24
Wasatch Defense Lawyers was honest with us. We came to him with a case of a relative that was a very heavy case.He was upfront and honest advice if they and how they can defend the case.I have huge respect to him because he empathized with us and our situation.I highly recommend them for any legal help in the state of Utah!!
Justine Faith Baity
Justine Faith Baity
23:24 17 Jan 24
Scott Wilding, Lane Clark and Victoria were absolutely amazing to work with. They answered my questions and I had plenty of them. I learned so much more about the law system and grateful for the knowledge that I learned.
Jen Webb
Jen Webb
00:13 09 Jan 24
What a great team at Wasatch Defense. I have been pleased with their experience and knowledge. Just look at the cases they have won. Their team's responsiveness to my questions and made the process incredibly smooth. I recommend Wasatch Defense to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thanks!
S L
S L
20:47 03 Jan 24
So I want to say that this defense office is outstanding at what they do!! Scott Wilding is the best attorney I have ever encountered!! He has so much passion and drive, as well as strong leadership qualities. He has treated me with the upmost respect. Like I was his family and friend. He invested his heart and intelligence to get me the best deal possible. And let me tell you when all the bases were loaded and it was the bottom of the last inning. He stepped up to the plate and grand slammed it, the ball landed in the stadium parking lot. For reals he did the impossible. Thank you Scott and everyone else that got me through this case!! Just amazing all around. Definitely #1 hands down!!Angel Archuleta
Angel Archuleta
Angel Archuleta
00:15 21 Dec 23
Wasatch Defense Lawyers provided a successful defense in a case filed against me. I cannot say enough good things about their legal team. With certainty, compassion, and confidence Scott, Reed, & Lane guided me through one of the most stressful periods of my life. They were diligent in following up on all aspects of my case and showed good judgment & assistance in providing a prompt & agreeable resolution. Thankful I went with Wasatch Defense Lawyers & would recommend anyone with a legal issue to procure their services without hesitation.
Ryan
Ryan
03:04 04 Dec 23
The lawyer my husband worked with told us what he could do and what he could not do for our case.
M Mickunas
M Mickunas
05:20 30 Nov 23
Lane helped my father, & he was very honest & upfront about how he could help. Would give him 10 stars if I could.
Daniel Mickunas
Daniel Mickunas
20:50 28 Nov 23
I've been working with Lane for almost three years to help my son who is in prison. It's easy to be forgotten when so much time passes, but Lane kept us in mind and did as much as he could to help.
Timothy Mickunas
Timothy Mickunas
19:53 28 Nov 23
Very professional upstanding lawyers with amazing advice!
Carter Cook
Carter Cook
05:24 28 Nov 23
Knowledgeable, professional, great to work with.
Jenny Cook
Jenny Cook
05:23 28 Nov 23
Very professional staff and gave us great advice.
Christopher Cook
Christopher Cook
05:21 28 Nov 23
Best lawyer in Utah! Highly recommend! Very helpful and kind.Also his staff is wonderful! Great communication!
Peggy A Campbell
Peggy A Campbell
21:42 18 Nov 23
They stood with me through the whole process and even got me bail when everyone said I never would. They also did such an amazing job that in the end the case was dropped. If you need someone to have your back come to them.
Michael Garcia
Michael Garcia
16:41 17 Nov 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!Edit: even months after my case Ashley has been incredibly helpful!
Cameron W
Cameron W
18:25 11 Nov 23
When the state asked for no bail and life in prison for a crime he didn't commit Wasatch got my step dad home in 4 weeks. Thank you guys!
Tirzah Nysse
Tirzah Nysse
19:19 29 Oct 23
I want to give a praise report for Wasatch Defense Lawyers. We hired them to defend our son but it turned out that it was a short term experience. We had put up a large sum of money and so my wife and I decided to askfor a Partial refund. They granted that to us. To me this shows good business principles and integrity. Thank you Wasatch defense lawyers.
Thomas Galvas
Thomas Galvas
03:04 23 Oct 23
It was a relief to find this team of creative problem solvers. I wish that we had found them sooner. They were fearless about addressing our legal situation.
R Galvas
R Galvas
23:38 21 Oct 23
Helped a friend in a bind and did well.
Fizmire
Fizmire
03:04 14 Oct 23
The team was great to work with. Very honest and keept my best insterests as their priority. Thanks!
Helen Muntz
Helen Muntz
19:44 11 Oct 23
I really appreciate them helping out a friend of mine.
Jessica Morgan
Jessica Morgan
19:23 11 Oct 23
Honest and transparent. When all was said and done my attorney and also the staff at Wasatch Defense Lawyers proved to be hardworking and transparent when communicating information to me. That’s all you can ask for in any company- especially a law office that you expect to have your best interests at heart. Don’t hesitate to call Wasatch Defense if you’re in a jam.
Val
Val
20:19 09 Oct 23
I've never felt compelled to write a google review before, but since the reviews on here are the reason I chose to go with this firm I wanted to add one to help anyone in a similar position as myself. Obviously anyone in need of these kinds of services is going through a terrible time in their life and the last thing you need is to go with a firm that will only increase your stress. From the time I walked through the doors for my consultation I knew this was the best place to be. I was immediately treated with the respect and dignity I had felt was lost to me, but to them I was a human like anyone else that was just in need of help and support, and they didn't hesitate to offer that to me. Through the entire process I always felt heard and understood and I knew that I had an entire team at my back helping me through the hardest time in my life. I wouldn't hesitate to go with them at any point in the future or to recommend them to any family or friend in need of their help. Do yourself the biggest favor you possibly could and get this team on your side.
Spencer
Spencer
17:07 07 Oct 23
Navigating the intricacies of legal situations can be a daunting task, especially when compounded by challenging circumstances. In such times, it's a blessing to encounter a professional like Lane. From our very first meeting, it was evident that Lane is not just knowledgeable but deeply empathetic and understanding.Lane took the time to truly grasp the complexities of my situation, lending not just his expertise but also an attentive ear and a reassuring presence. It's rare to come across someone who can seamlessly blend professionalism with genuine compassion, but Lane does exactly that. He ensured I received the representation I deserved and diligently worked to get my situation resolved.To anyone in need of paralegal services, I wholeheartedly recommend Lane. His dedication, warmth, and expertise are unparalleled. Thank you, Lane, for turning what could have been an overwhelming experience into a manageable and even reassuring one. Your dedication and support have made all the difference.
Rachel Burgess
Rachel Burgess
16:30 04 Oct 23
VERY PROFESSIONAL, TALENTED, AND GOT ME OFF! LOLZ NO NOT LIKE THAT YOU DIRTY SCOUNDREL. KEEP IT IN YOUR PANTS AND THE GUILT IN YOUR CHURCH. #CHURCH
totality events
totality events
07:34 03 Oct 23
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

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