When your freedom is on the line, experience isn’t a luxury.
It’s a necessity.
Very few other attorneys in Salt Lake City can point to decades of courtroom experience, a long record of published case results, and the resources necessary to challenge the government’s case at every stage.
At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, we prepare every case as though it may ultimately be decided by a jury. While many Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys resolve the vast majority of their cases through plea negotiations alone, our defense lawyers have extensive courtroom and trial experience defending clients against some of Utah’s most serious criminal charges. That experience changes how we evaluate evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare every defense strategy from day one.
Successful criminal defense also requires more than great attorneys.
It requires the right team.
Over the years, we’ve built a network of highly respected experts who can be called upon when a case demands specialized knowledge. Depending on the circumstances, that may include former prosecutors, forensic accountants, digital forensic specialists, accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, psychologists, private investigators, DNA experts, toxicologists, and other nationally recognized expert witnesses. When challenging the prosecution’s evidence could make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal, having access to the right experts can be invaluable.
Our attorneys have secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, favorable plea negotiations, and successful outcomes in a wide range of misdemeanor, felony, and federal criminal cases. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes, but they do demonstrate our commitment to thorough preparation, strategic advocacy, and relentless representation.
We invite you to review a selection of our published case results to see how we’ve helped clients facing complex and high-stakes criminal charges throughout Utah.
Results Matter Because Lives Depend on Them
Every criminal case has consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom.
A conviction can jeopardize your career, professional license, immigration status, reputation, finances, and personal relationships. In serious felony cases, it can also mean the loss of your freedom for years, or even decades.
That’s why our attorneys prepare every case as though it may ultimately be decided by a jury.
Our case results include numerous complete acquittals in serious felony prosecutions, not guilty verdicts in complex jury trials, dismissed charges before trial, and favorable resolutions in both state and federal courts. From allegations involving homicide, sexual offenses, domestic violence, fraud, and child abuse to high-stakes federal prosecutions, our attorneys have repeatedly secured outcomes that allow clients to move forward with their lives.
No ethical attorney can promise a particular outcome, and every case presents unique facts and legal issues. What we can promise is thorough preparation, honest advice, strategic advocacy, and a relentless commitment to protecting your rights at every stage of the criminal process.
Wasatch Defense Lawyers Client Reviews
Dave was the best lawyer I ever hired! He was able to get me the outcome I wanted, I would definitely recommend him for all your legal help. He really lifted a great weight off my shoulders, I appreciate everything he’s done for me. We worked together for a little over five months but it was all worth it in the end. Thank you Dave for all your hard work, I always want to make sure you get the recognition you deserve!
Thierat Volarat
19:14 10 Jul 26
This group was quick. Efficient and got things done. They got the case dismissed. State tried to pull some shady stuff. But Beau and his team kicked butt and got it all taken care of. Highly recommend!!!! Worth every cent.
Cindy Tyler
17:59 10 Jul 26
Lane was great. He answered all my questions and was able to point me in the right direction during a hard time for our family.
Dilia Arriaga
20:21 17 Jun 26
Having an attorney who is truly on your side and fights for you can completely change your entire experience. Lane and the team made me feel supported every step of the way. They gave me confidence that I had a strong advocate. I highly recommend them!
Chris Peterson
13:35 11 Jun 26
Absolutely amazing. I called in with a question and they got a lawyer on the phone and he explained to me what was going on in detail and made sure that I understood what was going on what to do just all around an amazing experience and reassuring for someone and I 100% recommend Calling if you have any questions
Chet Anderson
22:26 03 Jun 26
I was very satisfied with Cole and his genuine thoughtfulness for the clients problems. I would definitely recommend his services to those who need it. I was also thankful to Darrell for his initial work.
David Berger
15:36 03 Jun 26
Incredibly effective and pleasant to work with!
Alex Blane
23:04 20 May 26
If you ever find yourself needing legal help, you won’t find a better lawyer than Cole Strickland. The whole team at Wasatch went above and beyond. He was there throughout the entire process, explained everything clearly, gave me all of my options, and walked me through everything step by step. Communication was excellent, and I would highly recommend him to anyone needing legal representation. I’m very grateful for the great outcome.
London Jackson
06:49 30 Apr 26
If you’re looking for a defense team that actually treats your case like it matters, Wasatch Defense Lawyers stand out in all the right ways. From the very first consultation, they were professional, direct, and clearly experienced. They didn’t just throw around legal jargon—they took the time to explain my situation, my options, and what to realistically expect every step of the way.What impressed me most was their responsiveness and attention to detail. Every question I had was answered quickly, and I never felt like just another case number. Their team was thorough in preparing my defense and clearly knew how to navigate the legal system effectively.Most importantly, they delivered results. You can tell they genuinely care about their clients and are willing to put in the work to get the best possible outcome. If you want a defense firm that is knowledgeable, reliable, and truly in your corner, I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers.
Kyce Mitchell
01:27 30 Apr 26
Scott Wilding was supportive, compassionate, and knowledgeable. I’m so grateful that I found him. Thank you for advocating for me. I would definitely recommend his services.
Lindsay Rasmussen
02:33 28 Apr 26
Lane Clark at Wasatch Defense Lawyers is a good man and a skilled and knowledgeable colleague who does good quality work, cares about his clients, and communicates well. Highly Recommend! Rock Star!
Will Andrews
22:26 20 Apr 26
My son was falsely accused of a crime that could have been potentially very damaging to his life. We reached out to Wasatch Defense Lawyers and was contacted back within the hour. They took information and listened to his side of the story. No charges were ever filed but Wasatch Defense Lawyers were quick to act on his behalf and supported him through the situation. I would highly recommend this firm.
Caryn Ryan
03:27 06 Apr 26
Wasatch helped my son who was falsely accused of a crime this law firm stepped in very quickly in his defense and with in days the charges were completely dropped wirh out questions. I highly recommend this firm
Kelly Ryan
03:17 06 Apr 26
I was falsely accused of a crime and was facing some potentially SERIOUS prison time. I filled out the online form for a consultation and was contacted within the hour, with a team of attorneys on the line. They got to work fast and efficiently. After the case was screened by the DA/Prosecutor, they immediately declined to file charges. We were able to avoid the filing of charges, potential arrest, and impending trial. I cannot thank Wasatch Defense Lawyers enough for their attention to me and my case. Their experience was something I trusted from the get go. To anyone who is ever experiencing situations like mine, I cannot recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers enough. I can move on with my life and not have to deal with this anymore!
Brayden Ryan
03:16 06 Apr 26
The attorneys are amazing!!!!
Dylan Mora
10:47 29 Mar 26
Emily is amazing and got my case dismissed. She is very helpful - she answered my questions everyday and I had a lot. She is very patient and helped me navigate the process. I recommend her to anyone who needs a good defense attorney.
Randee Chaney
20:33 25 Mar 26
The team of attorneys at Wasatch Defense is fantastic! They have helped through one of the toughest times in my life! I’m truly grateful to them!
Sid Smith
21:38 20 Mar 26
These guys really took good care of my friend who got sucked into a scam while in the USA on a student visa! Not only was he facing criminal charges but he was facing deportation. They helped him with both! Thank you Cole and Lane!
Mike Jorgensen
01:17 19 Mar 26
I called looking for an estimate for a friend of mine who is currently incarcerated and Lane gave me more than what I was expecting for information wise. He was able to provide me with information on their firm based off of their stats with charge reductions and even dismissals and was extremely helpful and very informative! Highly recommend giving them a call.
Michele Deal
20:38 17 Mar 26
Amazing straight to the point with the questions I have quick and easy at no cost.The true Lawyer's that work for the people's.
Chaisith Crook
18:10 16 Mar 26
Literally thee very best attorneys out there! Lane and Paul have never been anything short of amazing for my family and I!!! From legal to even helping me with family matters! Without them, there are several things in my life that just wouldn't have been possible!!!Whatever your reason for needing their help, reach out! They will make the impossible very possible!!! Thank you Paul and Lane! I appreciate you beyond words!
Alyxandra Grimsdell
15:39 16 Mar 26
The entire team at Wasatch are knowledgeable, fair and professional. They took the time to explain the process thoroughly and made recommendations along the way. They made the process easy and helped guide us through a very stressful situation. Highly recommend working with them.
Valerie Koonce
16:33 14 Mar 26
I interviewed Wasatch Defense just a day before Christmas eve. They were able to get me in super last minute, gave me a great quote and I signed with them instantly. I was working along with Dave Clark. I had a great outcome in court and left pleased with how everything went.
Jamie VanCleave
03:22 10 Mar 26
These guys are absolutely great, especially Lane Clark! Thank you for always being honest, prompt and caring.
Kelli Keyes
02:25 28 Feb 26
Professional, insightful, and working behind the scenes for my benefit.
Bryan Denker
23:11 25 Feb 26
After speaking with three different law firms about my situation, Wasatch Defense Lawyers truly stood out. From the very first conversation, Lane and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly reassuring. I never felt rushed or like “just another case” — they made me feel genuinely welcomed and supported.What impressed me most was how immediately they took initiative. I didn’t have to ask them to make calls or guide them on what needed to happen next — they were already on top of everything. Before I had even left the building, they were actively contacting the appropriate people and moving things forward. That level of preparedness, confidence, and urgency gave me tremendous peace of mind during a very stressful time.They clearly explained my options, outlined strategic next steps, and made sure I understood the process. Their experience showed in the way they handled everything with professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine care.If you’re looking for attorneys who are proactive, strategic, compassionate, and truly committed to protecting their clients, I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers. I left feeling confident that I had the right team on my side.
jen parkin
03:07 21 Feb 26
Wasatch Defense Lawyers are amazing! If you want the best representation in Utah then call them! My experience has been straight forward since the first time I met with them. I called and received a consultation with them the next day. During our meeting I had the opportunity to meet one of the best lawyers, the most wonderful paralegal Lane and another amazing member of the firm. They are all very honest and kind, and explained to me what they could and would to help me. This firm has totally exceeded my expectations!! They are going to continue to represent me and I am so thankful for choosing Wasatch Defense Lawyers! Dedicated. Honest. I would highly recommend them!!!
JoNell Ish-Taylor
06:55 03 Feb 26
Lane, Darrell, Ashley, Victoria and Emily were very friendly and helpful. Would absolutely recommend!
Chase Ashworth
23:41 29 Jan 26
Really grateful we found a team that knew what they were doing and didn’t shy away from taking on a case. They were easy to talk to and made me feel heard while standing up for me.Tanner and Craig have been great! So thankful! Craig is super responsive, always willing to answer questions. You can tell he cares and wants to help. They have both been working hard to help.
Damian Dezell-Decker
23:20 28 Jan 26
Zachary Holbrook was absolutely amazing to work with. From the very beginning, he was knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cared about my case. He explained everything clearly, kept me informed every step of the way, and made a stressful situation feel manageable. I felt confident knowing I had someone competent and dedicated on my side. I’m extremely grateful for his help and would highly recommend him to anyone needing a DUI attorney.
Samantha Willems
20:08 28 Jan 26
Craig has been great! He’s super responsive, always happy to answer questions, and clearly cares about his clients.So grateful we found a team that actually knows what they’re doing and was willing to take on the case. Everyone was knowledgeable, patient, and made us feel heard. Highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers!
Alexander Decker
19:06 28 Jan 26
So thankful we found a team of competent professionals who were ready to take on a case. They were knowledgeable, patient, listened, and stood ready to defend!Craig has been extremely responsive and gone out of his way to answer questions. He’s been generous with his time and willing to help guide. It’s clear he genuinely cares!I’d absolutely recommend hiring Wasatch Defense Lawyers.
Rae Dezell
18:55 28 Jan 26
My Attorney Dave Clack from Wasach Defense really took care of my case and gave me confidence and ease of mind. I got no jail time, my fines were greatly reduced and my charges expunged when I complete my probation. I really appreciate the dedicated work and the good humanity given to me.Thank you very much.
Ted Junior Michael
19:27 27 Jan 26
Dave and Lane we're great to work with. Answered every question that I had in a very professional And Timely manner.
Judd Garcia
18:55 27 Jan 26
I had a great experience with Wasatch Defense Lawyers. They was very helpful, professional, and respectful throughout the entire process. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood my options. I truly felt supported and would highly recommend them to anyone needing a reliable defense attorney.
Alexander Ellis
20:55 19 Jan 26
Lane, Victoria, and the entire team at WDL was knowledgeable and patient during a consultation with my juvenile's case. I am so appreciative of the efforts they took to explain each piece of the legal process and what to expect. A++ experience .
Luke Barritt
17:03 10 Jan 26
Reed, Lane and the team at Wasatch were up front and honest, they were extremely supportive and helpful during a difficult time. They fulfilled their commitments to make sure justice was served.Absolutely speak with Lane before you hire anyone else.
Jason Allen
20:59 09 Jan 26
Was respectful, extremely helpful explaining my rights with an issue over false gun purchase records, and with my local police department. Thank you for all the help. If I need an attorney of your nature down the road will definitely come to you.
Jaimee Tolich
04:58 09 Jan 26
I got some great legal advice from Lane! Thank you so much!
Miranda Woodward
17:17 08 Jan 26
Best place to get all your questions answered and getting a peace of mind. Darrell York! didn’t hesitate to let me know they are available if I had questions or concerns regarding the case thank you.
Recognized as the 2026 Best Criminal Defense Law Firm in Salt Lake City
Anyone can call themselves “the best.”
Earning that recognition from the community is something entirely different.
In 2026, Wasatch Defense Lawyers was voted the Best of SLC Criminal Defense Firm through the Best of SLC Awards. This recognition wasn’t determined by a marketing campaign or purchased through sponsorship. Best of SLC winners are selected through a combination of public voting, verified customer feedback, and online reputation, including Google reviews, recognizing businesses that have earned the trust and confidence of the communities they serve.
Even more meaningful, this wasn’t the first time our firm has been recognized. Since 2020, Wasatch Defense Lawyers has been honored by Best of SLC multiple times, including multiple Best Criminal Defense Law Firm awards and Top 3 finishes. Consistent recognition over several years reflects something far more valuable than a single successful year—it reflects a sustained commitment to exceptional legal representation and client service.
To us, these awards represent far more than another badge on our website.
They represent clients whose charges were dismissed.
They represent not guilty verdicts after trial.
They represent lives, careers, reputations, and futures that were protected through careful preparation and relentless advocacy.
Awards alone don’t make a great criminal defense law firm.
Experience does.
Preparation does.
Results do.
But when years of successful courtroom advocacy are reinforced by outstanding client reviews and repeated community recognition, they provide independent validation of what our clients have known for years: Wasatch Defense Lawyers has earned its reputation as one of the premier criminal defense law firms in Salt Lake City.
Wasatch Defense Lawyers Consistently Recognized Among the Best Criminal Defense Law Firms in Salt Lake City
Since 2020, Wasatch Defense Lawyers has been recognized by the Best of SLC as the Best Criminal Defense Law Firm in Salt Lake City. These awards reflect years of trusted legal representation, exceptional client service, and proven courtroom results.
Anyone can have a great year.
Consistently earning recognition over multiple years is much harder.
Criminal defense isn’t an area where you want an attorney who happened to have one successful marketing campaign or one exceptional year.
You want a law firm with a proven history of serving clients, defending complex cases, winning cases, and earning the trust of the community year after year.
The Best of SLC Awards recognize that consistency, and we’re honored to have been recognized multiple times since 2020.
Our History of Recognition as a Top Criminal Defense Law Firm in Salt Lake City
Awards are an honor, but they’re not the reason clients hire us. Every criminal case is unique, and every client deserves experienced legal representation, honest communication, and a defense strategy tailored to their circumstances. While we’re proud to have been recognized multiple times by Best of SLC, our greatest achievement is helping clients protect their futures when everything is on the line.
2026: Best of SLC Silver Winner for Criminal Defense
Wasatch Defense Lawyers earned the 2026 Best of SLC Silver Winner recognition for Criminal Defense, marking the firm’s fifth Best of SLC recognition since 2020. Consistent recognition over multiple years reflects a long-standing commitment to exceptional legal representation, client advocacy, and courtroom excellence. While awards don’t win cases, they demonstrate the trust our clients and community continue to place in our attorneys.
2025: Best Criminal Defense Law Firm in Salt Lake City
In 2025, Wasatch Defense Lawyers was recognized as the Best Criminal Defense Law Firm in Salt Lake City by Best of SLC. This award reflected years of dedicated client advocacy, strategic criminal defense, and a reputation built through courtroom preparation, not marketing promises. Our attorneys continue to represent individuals facing misdemeanor, felony, and federal criminal charges throughout Utah.
2023: Recognized Salt Lake City’s Top 3 Criminal Defense Law Firms
Best of SLC recognized Wasatch Defense Lawyers as one of the Top 3 Criminal Defense Law Firms in Salt Lake City in 2023. This recognition highlighted the firm’s continued reputation for experienced trial advocacy, personalized legal representation, and successful outcomes in complex criminal cases.
2021: Best of SLC Winner for Criminal Defense
Receiving Best of SLC recognition for a second consecutive time reinforced what our clients already knew—Wasatch Defense Lawyers consistently delivers experienced criminal defense representation built on preparation, integrity, and relentless advocacy. The firm continued earning the trust of clients facing some of Utah’s most serious criminal charges.
2020: Best of SLC Winner for Criminal Defense
Wasatch Defense Lawyers first earned recognition as the Best Criminal Defense Law Firm through the Best of SLC Awards in 2020. That award marked the beginning of a tradition of excellence that continues today. Since then, our attorneys have continued defending clients throughout Utah while building one of the state’s most respected criminal defense practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose Wasatch Defense Lawyers for criminal defense?
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney can have a lasting impact on your future. Wasatch Defense Lawyers combines decades of courtroom experience, published case results, trial-ready preparation, and a collaborative team approach to defend clients facing misdemeanor, felony, and federal criminal charges throughout Utah. Our attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the strongest possible outcome in every case.
What does the Best of SLC award represent?
Best of SLC recognizes businesses that have earned the trust of their communities through a combination of public voting, customer feedback, and online reputation, including Google reviews. Wasatch Defense Lawyers has been recognized multiple times since 2020, reflecting years of trusted criminal defense representation throughout Salt Lake City and Utah.
What makes Wasatch Defense Lawyers one of the best criminal defense law firms in Salt Lake City?
Our reputation has been built through years of successful courtroom advocacy, exceptional client service, and consistent recognition from the community. Since 2020, Wasatch Defense Lawyers has been recognized by Best of SLC multiple times, while earning the trust of clients through dismissals, not guilty verdicts, favorable case resolutions, and experienced legal representation.
Does your firm take criminal cases to trial?
Yes. While many criminal cases resolve through negotiation (which is great because there is no stress of a trial), our attorneys prepare every case as though it may ultimately be decided by a jury. Trial experience influences every stage of the defense process, from challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors to presenting a compelling case in court when necessary. We have significant trial experience defending Salt Lake City residents.
Can criminal charges be dismissed?
Every case is different, and no attorney can ethically guarantee a particular outcome. However, our attorneys have secured numerous dismissed charges, not guilty verdicts, and favorable resolutions through strategic preparation, effective negotiations, and aggressive courtroom advocacy. The facts, evidence, and legal issues involved will determine the best course of action for your case.
Why is trial experience important when hiring a criminal defense attorney?
Trial experience changes how an attorney evaluates evidence, prepares a defense, and negotiates with prosecutors. Prosecutors know which attorneys are willing and prepared to take a case before a jury. That preparation often creates stronger opportunities for favorable resolutions, even when a case ultimately settles before trial.
Proudly Defending Clients Across Utah
Our office is centrally located in downtown Salt Lake City, serving clients in:
Salt Lake County
Utah County
Weber County
Davis County
If you have been accused of sexual battery anywhere in Utah, you can rely on
Wasatch Defense Lawyers for rapid response and experienced representation.
Ready to Put an Award-Winning Criminal Defense Team on Your Side?
If you’re facing criminal charges, don’t leave your future to chance. Whether you’ve been arrested, charged, or believe you’re under investigation, Wasatch Defense Lawyers is prepared to protect your rights and fight for the strongest possible outcome.
With decades of courtroom experience, published case results, and five Best of SLC recognitions since 2020, our attorneys have earned a reputation as one of Salt Lake City’s most trusted criminal defense teams.
Schedule your free consultation today and discover why so many clients throughout Utah have trusted Wasatch Defense Lawyers when everything was on the line.
Anyone can call themselves “the best.”
