Find the right defense attorney for free.

Using a Private Criminal Defense Attorney

If you've been charged with a crime, you'll probably need a lawyer. Defendants who do not qualify for the public defender or panel attorney will need to find and hire their own. Learn how to conduct a thoughtful search, and how private attorneys bill for their services.

To help choose the right lawyer for your criminal case, look for someone who knows the local players, has experience defending similar charges, and is a good fit for you.

One of the first questions you're likely to ask an attorney whom you're considering hiring is, "What will this cost?" Here's the low-down on how criminal defense attorneys charge for their services, which vary according to such factors as:

Defendants who hire a criminal defense attorney can fire that lawyer and hire a new one, as long as the substitution of counsel doesn't interfere with the fair, efficient, and orderly administration of justice.

Empower Yourself: DIY Products by Nolo

Sidestep the lawyers with do-it-yourself books, documents, and software.

The criminal justice system is complicated. Understand it and your rights.
Legal Research: Take the law into your own hands.

Nolo offers hundreds of consumer-friendly, do-it-yourself legal products for all types of legal situations. Browse our full product list.

More Legal Issues

Click below to view more legal issues. Our extensive collection of legal topics ranges across different areas of practice.

Learn About Our Team

Learn About Our Team

Our editors have over 100 years of combined experience practicing law. These professionals have worked in a wide range of legal areas, from estate planning to criminal law to business formation and beyond. They’re experts at explaining complicated legal issues in easy-to-understand terms.

Learn more about the team that manages Nolo’s articles, books, and DIY tools.

Need a Lawyer? We Can Help

Find an experienced, local attorney in three easy steps. Our process is designed for ease and simplicity.

01

Describe Your Case

Briefly tell us about your case, and provide your contact information.

02

Get Connected

We find and instantly list attorneys that can best handle your case.

03

Hire an Attorney

Choose the attorneys you would like to work with.

Integrity and Expertise You Can Rely On

DEFEND YOUR RIGHTS
Talk to a Defense attorney
We've helped 95 clients find attorneys today.

Do you have a pending charge?

How It Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you