Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Attorneys: Protecting Your Rights

A criminal charge in Salt Lake City can derail your life in an instant. The moments after an arrest are filled with uncertainty, whether you are facing the flashing lights on I-15 or processing paperwork at the Salt Lake County Metro Jail. We are Wasatch Defense Lawyers, and our entire practice is built to shield Salt Lake City residents from the severe consequences of the Utah criminal justice system.

Navigating the Salt Lake City Legal Landscape

Criminal charges in Salt Lake City are prosecuted aggressively, from the Salt Lake City Justice Court for misdemeanors to the Matheson Courthouse for serious felonies. An arrest here puts you up against experienced prosecutors from the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s office who have significant resources at their disposal. You cannot afford to face them alone. Our firm’s foundation is built on 100+ years of combined experience specifically within this system, giving you an immediate advantage.

The stakes are uniquely high in the state’s capital. A conviction could impact your employment in the downtown business district, your standing at the University of Utah, or your reputation in neighborhoods from The Avenues to Sugar House. We provide aggressive legal representation designed to protect your future, your freedom, and everything you have built in Salt Lake City. Call now to understand your legal options with a free, confidential case review.

Criminal Charges We Defend in Salt Lake City

Your defense strategy must be tailored to the specific charge and the court where it will be heard. As Utah’s largest criminal defense team, we have dedicated expertise across a wide range of practice areas, ensuring your case is handled by an attorney with proven experience in that specific field. We dismantle the prosecution’s case piece by piece, from challenging traffic stops on State Street to scrutinizing evidence in complex felony investigations.

DUI and Traffic Offenses

Utah’s .05% BAC limit is the strictest in the nation, leading to aggressive DUI enforcement across Salt Lake City, especially along I-80 and downtown nightlife areas. A conviction carries mandatory license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. We scrutinize every aspect of your arrest, from the initial stop to the field sobriety tests and the implications of a breathalyzer refusal, to build a robust defense strategy.

Drug Crimes and Possession Laws

From simple possession charges near Pioneer Park to complex trafficking investigations, Salt Lake drug crimes carry severe penalties. We handle cases involving marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines, and prescription fraud. Our defense often involves challenging the legality of the search and seizure, questioning evidence chain of custody, and fighting to protect your constitutional rights.

Assault, Domestic Violence, and Violent Crimes

An accusation of assault or domestic violence can result in immediate arrest, protective orders, and the loss of your right to own a firearm, even before a conviction. We provide immediate, judgment-free legal guidance to protect your rights from the very beginning. Our attorneys have defended over 650 jury trials, including serious violent crime cases like murder and homicide, giving us the courtroom experience necessary to fight for the best possible outcome.

Theft, Burglary, and Property Crimes

Property crime allegations in Salt Lake City range from misdemeanor shoplifting at City Creek Center to felony burglary charges. With the rise of the Silicon Slopes, we’ve also seen an increase in white-collar and digital financial crimes. We have the specific expertise to defend complex cases, including those involving digital evidence and crypto fraud, protecting your assets and professional reputation. Schedule your free case review to discuss your specific property crime charge.

Defended by Utah’s Largest and Highest-Rated Team

When you choose Wasatch Defense Lawyers, you are not just hiring an attorney; you are retaining Utah’s largest criminal defense team. This scale gives us unmatched collective experience and resources to dedicate to your Salt Lake City case. Our firm holds more 5-star reviews than any other criminal defense firm in Utah, a direct reflection of our commitment to our clients.

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

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

From the very first consultation, Lane, Reed and their team made me feel supportive and calm during a very difficult time. My son was facing sexual assault charges and I didn’t know what to do. Lane and the team were always available to answer my questions and kept me updated every step of the way. Their expertise lead to a dismissal of my sons false accusations. My son got his life back and I am forever grateful. Best decision I’ve made hiring Wasatch Defense Lawyers. Professional, responsive, and tough in negotiations. Highly recommend!

Kim Luttrull

03:52 25 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.

Manuna Hafoka

03:33 30 Dec 25

Wasatch Defense Lawyers helped my family during a crisis when legal counsel was needed the most. They were always responsive and ready to address any questions, even if there were simple or redundant. Lane has been great and has always picked up the phone, ready to help out. Grateful for all of their support.

Javi Santa Cruz

23:41 03 Dec 25

The team at Wasatch Defense are great. I recommend them. After being falsely accused, they took my case very seriously and facilitated the right people to help me with every step. Paying a flat fee for the entire case helped me manage the financial burden with complete clarity. We ended up with a not guilty verdict.

Andrew Verge

20:01 13 Nov 25

I can only give my highest praise and recommendations for Wasatch Defense Attorneys and their team. A special thanks to Lane Paralegal for all his help

Julie Rasmussen

01:58 11 Nov 25

My attorney was Scot wilding probably the best attorney I’ve had. Had trouble with this from before until I got assigned Scot really good guy and wants to help. Helped me a lot! Appreciate you Scot

Mote Tau

18:31 03 Nov 25

We were facing a family crisis when I contacted Wasatch Defense Attorneys. Lane responded immediately and guided us through an incredibly challenging situation. He and the entire team gave us peace of mind, assuring us that we were protected and that they would do everything possible to help. Thankfully, the case was resolved quickly, and I’m deeply grateful for the firm’s support and professionalism.

Jenn Wright

15:37 23 Oct 25

They go above and beyond. And always communicate with you.Well Done.Thank you.Mr. LITI

Orian belt We are committed to earth

18:02 17 Oct 25

Reed was a clear communicator, helpful, and when a mistake was made fixed the error. He understood the situation immediately and knew how to help. It was great working with him. Highly recommend.

Big Bad

00:33 03 Oct 25

Our lawyer, Reed, was amazing. He communicated well and helped us along this journey. Highly recommend.

Liz Nix

00:30 03 Oct 25

These guys are awesome they helped me fast with my situation these guys are the best

Mal Jones

23:41 29 Sep 25

Very good at what they do and most importantly knowledgeable at every single thing that comes up. Very thankful and glad we were able to find them. Lane is very attentive and there to help answer all questions. More than please with their service. Would recommend to anyone.

Patricia Gomez

18:55 24 Sep 25

Amazing experience. Extremely helpful.

Evan Robinson

16:41 23 Sep 25

I appreciate all the support we had working with Layne. He is a very kind man. That helped us in our time of need. I would recommend them to family and friends. The team is very knowledgeable. With a wide umbrella of care and compassion.Thank you for everything.

Shelly Myrick

15:02 18 Sep 25

The Wasatch Defense Lawyers team has been amazing, especially Lane, paralegal; he has kept us in the loop on everything happening with the charges and the court. Anytime I text or call, he responds quickly and professionally. Wasatch Defense Lawyers are keeping our son—who was in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people—out of prison, and setting him up so he can move forward in life and put this chapter behind him. 🙏🏼

Kim Hartman

14:24 18 Sep 25

I was impressed with the fact that they started on the case before we even hired them. Scott was very informative and gave us his cellphone number so we could call him anytime we needed and he always answered the phone.I was impressed in his compassion considering the situation. He was always very kind and nonjudgmental.He always had compliments about how he was doing. He worked hard for results.

Natalie Najera

17:09 17 Sep 25

Wasatch Defense Attorneys have been great. They have been helping my son with his case and are very professional and kind attorneys. Lane has been quite awesome and helpful. I recommend this firm to anyone and everyone.

April Stagg

14:33 16 Sep 25

Had some amazing help from these guys.

Douglas Gillespie

14:14 16 Sep 25

At the very beginning, I had no hope or nowhere to go, or any idea what to do with the situation I got in but I got in touch with Wasatch Defense. They connected me with Beau and Jenny and thanks to them I get to live my life after going through 4 years of hardship and uncertainty lane and Beau and Jenny fought tooth and nail for me and gave me another chance at life. For that, I am forever grateful to them and would recommend them a million times over.

Isaiah Smith

00:21 11 Sep 25

These guys have been such a help throughout this long and scary process. The entire team has been super informative and supportive throughout this case my family has been dealing with. Lane especially has been nothing but reassuring and quick to answer any questions or concerns I have. I am beyond relieved that we went with Wasatch Defense!

Larz

22:36 10 Sep 25

Great defense lawyer. Reed was very professional and helped my family through a difficult time. I highly recommend him.

Nabila Shafi

21:40 10 Sep 25

If you’re looking for lawyers who don’t just show up but show out, this is the team. They’ve had my back every step of the way sharp, relentless, and seriously kick ass at what they do.Special shoutout to Lane: absolute rockstar. Lane goes above and beyond, explains things in a way that actually makes sense, and fights like hell for the best outcome. You can tell they truly care, not just about the case but about you as a person.Professional, powerful, and downright awesome these are the lawyers you want in your corner.

Shannon Rakes

23:45 09 Sep 25

Did a great job handling the case. Got great relief for our family. Was fantastic at explaining everything in detail. definitely recommend.

Erica Taylor

00:25 08 Sep 25

I was charged on a Sunday and called Wastatch defense on Monday at lunch. They were able to get me a consultation right away. I felt so relieved after talking with them. They knew what to do and took care of everything from the moment I signed. Call with confidence that you will be well taken care of through the whole process.

douglas larsen

00:12 08 Sep 25

Franklin Katschke is an incredible attorney. I know he works very hard and does an amazing job for his clients. He's sharp and gets the job done. You cannot go wrong with Franklin as your attorney.

Clay Randle

16:50 05 Sep 25

Great service we are super happy with them they’ve help me and my family a lot we definitely recommend their services.

Gerram5.7 R

16:02 04 Sep 25

My son was falsely accused by a student at school and the issue was reported to DCFS. My defense attorney team and attorney Paul Johnson did a wonderful job and got everything dismissed quickly.

Tiffany

18:45 01 Sep 25

It is early in the case with a long road ahead, but up to this point we have been treated with understanding, kindness and compassion. Reed and Lane have been immediately responsive when contacted. I believe their team is competent and motivated to advocate through a difficult situation, and are highly invested in reaching the best possible outcomes. Thank you!

Ginger

18:05 30 Aug 25

This success is built on a foundation of over 100 years of combined legal experience focused squarely on Utah criminal law. We understand the tendencies of local judges and prosecutors, and we leverage this deep institutional knowledge to build strategic, powerful defense campaigns for our clients. We are available 24/7 because we know that legal emergencies don’t wait for business hours.

Your Defense Process and Investment

The first step after an arrest is to invoke your right to remain silent and state you want a lawyer. Our defense process begins with a free case review where we listen to your side of the story and provide an honest assessment of your legal options. From there, we immediately begin our own investigation, demanding evidence from the prosecution and identifying weaknesses in their case to protect your constitutional rights.

The cost of a robust criminal defense in Salt Lake City depends on the complexity of the charge, the court it is in, and whether it proceeds to trial. A misdemeanor DUI will have a different fee structure than a multi-day felony jury trial at the Matheson Courthouse. We provide transparent fee agreements and offer military discounts to active service members and veterans. Your investment secures a dedicated legal support team committed to safeguarding your future.

We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation. Request your free, no-obligation case review to understand the path forward.

Serving All of Salt Lake City and Surrounding Areas

Our office is strategically located to serve clients throughout Salt Lake County, but our primary focus is on defending those accused within Salt Lake City itself. We have extensive experience representing clients who live and work in every corner of the city. Our 24/7 availability ensures we can provide rapid response when you need it most.

• Downtown Salt Lake City

• The Avenues

• Sugar House

• Rose Park & Glendale

• Capitol Hill

• Federal Heights

• 9th and 9th

• Liberty Wells

• All surrounding communities including Millcreek, Murray, and South Salt Lake

Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Salt Lake City

Contact a Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Attorney Today

An arrest is not a conviction. You have rights, and our mission is to protect them with aggressive, experienced, and strategic legal representation. As Utah’s largest and highest-rated criminal defense team, we have a proven track record of securing the best possible outcome for you in Salt Lake City courts. Your future is too important to leave to chance.

Don’t wait for the prosecution to build its case against you. Call Wasatch Defense Lawyers now at (801) 980-9965 or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential case review and begin safeguarding your rights immediately.