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5 Law Firms for the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Phoenix

8 Law Firms for the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Phoenix

How We Picked the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Phoenix

Accessibility

When you have a criminal case against you, it’s important that you can contact your lawyer at any time as the case progresses. This is why we looked into their responsiveness and operating hours. 

Expertise

It’s a given that we looked into their track record, level of experience, awards, and other certifications that show how excellent they are at what they do. We also look into their eloquence and how communicative they are. 

Professionalism

Aside from expertise, it’s also important to have a lawyer who’s highly professional and would treat you with respect. Having a case against you is difficult and it’s crucial to have legal help that will make you feel reassured and at ease. 

Client Satisfaction

Lastly, we also consider the consistency of their services through their previous clients’ feedback. 

1. Long & Simmons Law

long and simmons law homepage

Practice Areas: DUI & Vehicular Crimes, Sex Crimes, Assault & Violent Crimes, Homicide, Prefile Investigations, Theft & Property Crimes, Drug Crimes, Crimes Involving Children & Juvenile Cases, Misdemeanors & Major Felonies.

Website: https://longandsimmonslaw.com/

Address: 2999 N 44th St Suite 516, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

Contact Details: +1 602-795-8808; [email protected]

Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (8AM-5PM)

Google reviews score4.9/5
Facebook reviews score5/5
Yelp reviews score4.8/5
Total reviews4.9/5
Score consistency4.9/5
Client Satisfaction5/5
Accessibility5/5
⮕Operating Hours5/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise5/5
⮕Years of Experience5/5
⮕Distinctions5/5
⮕Eloquence5/5
Professionalism5/5

Pros

  • Personalized attention with manageable client lists
  • Experienced attorneys across multiple criminal law areas
  • Clear communication and guidance
  • Free initial consultations
  • Highly rated and reputable firm

Cons

  • Online booking system could be improved

Long & Simmons Law is a highly regarded criminal defense firm based in Phoenix, specializing in a wide array of criminal cases. They are known for their detailed, strategic approach to defending clients in complex legal matters.

The firm emphasizes personalized attention, keeping caseloads manageable to focus fully on each client. Their team of attorneys brings decades of experience across multiple areas of criminal law, ensuring expertise in all aspects of defense.

Clients appreciate that the lawyers explain every step of the legal process clearly, making complex legal matters easier to understand. They also provide guidance on potential outcomes and strategic options, keeping the client informed and involved.

Their services include defense for DUI/DWI, drug-related offenses, domestic violence, theft, assault, and white-collar crimes. They also handle juvenile cases and probation violations, ensuring comprehensive coverage for clients with varied legal needs.

Communication is a strong point for the firm, with timely updates and availability for questions or concerns. They also offer free initial consultations, making it easier for potential clients to evaluate their services without commitment.

One standout feature is their peer recognition and professional ratings, including excellent reviews on Google, Yelp, and AVVO. This speaks to their credibility and proven track record in obtaining favorable outcomes for clients.

The only downside we noticed is that their online booking system could be improved, as most clients end up scheduling via phone for quicker responses.

2. Discovery Detective Group

discovery detective group homepage

Practice Areas: Investigations, process serving, mitigation, training, education, and consulting.

Website: https://discoverydetectivegroup.com/

Address: Discovery Detective Group, 6501 E Greenway Pkwy, 103-500 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254, United States

Contact Details: (480) 946-7173

Operating Hours: 

  • Sunday: By appointment
  • Monday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
  • Tuesday & Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Thursday & Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Google reviews score5/5
Yelp reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews scoreN/A
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency4/5
Client Satisfaction4.5/5
Accessibility4/5
⮕Operating Hours3/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise4.6/5
⮕Years of Experience4/5
⮕Distinctions5/5
⮕Eloquence4/5
Professionalism4/5

Pros

  • Over 30 years of experience
  • Multiple awards and certifications
  • Free 15-minute phone consultations
  • Effective and professional private investigators

Cons

  • Can take time to contact outside business hours

Discovery Detective Group is one of the United States’ top investigation companies with over 30 years.

Through the years, it has earned awards and recognition from government agencies, Fortune 500 corporation clients, industry ratings, and publications. 

While it is not a law firm, it provides investigations, process serving, mitigation, training, education, and consulting.

We learned that it stands apart from other agencies with its team approach. Instead of deploying a single investigator, it assigns a case director heading other investigators. 

The leader directs the investigation, assigns and manages the team of investigators, and may even work on parts of the task.

Discovery Detective Group works 24/7, but it usually answers calls during regular business hours. Hence, it’s best to contact them as soon as possible.

3. Kolsrud Law Offices

Practice areas: Extreme DUI, Super Extreme DUI, Aggravated DUI, Suspended-License DUI, Boating Under the Influence (BUI), Drug-Related DUI, DUI with Injury, Second or Third Offense DUI, Underage DUI, Vehicular Manslaughter

Website: https://kolsrudlawoffices.com/

Address: 1650 N 1st Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

Contact Details: +1 602-560-4907

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours

Google reviews score4.9/5
Yelp reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews score5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency5/5

4. VS Criminal Defense Attorneys

VS Criminal Defense Attorneys

Practice Areas: Felony Sex Crime Defense, Sexual Assault Defense, Sexual Abuse Defense, Child Molestation Defense, Child Exploitation Defense, Rape Defense, Statutory Rape Defense, Sex Sting Defense, Sex Trafficking Defense, Solicitation of a Minor Defense, Dangerous Crimes Against Children Defense, Pre-Charge Legal Representation, Pre-Trial Defense Strategy, Plea Bargain Negotiation, Immediate Post-Arrest Defense, Strategy Sessions, Confidential Case Evaluation

Website: https://www.vsattorney.com/  

Address: 1845 S Dobson Rd, Suite 202, Mesa, AZ 85202

Contact Details: 480-923-9001

Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 24 Hours

Google reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews score5/5
Yelp reviews score4.5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency5/5
Client Satisfaction5/5
Accessibility5/5
⮕Operating Hours5/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise5/5
⮕Years of Experience5/5
⮕Distinctions5/5
⮕Eloquence5/5
Professionalism5/5

Pros

  • Highly experienced in sex crime defense
  • Recognized by multiple legal awards and organizations
  • Offers confidential consultations and strategy sessions
  • Skilled in plea bargains and trial representation

Cons

  • High-profile expertise may come with higher legal fees

VS Criminal Defense Attorneys has earned a reputation as one of Arizona’s most focused criminal defense firms, specializing exclusively in defending individuals accused of felony sex crimes. This singular concentration sets the firm apart from general practice law offices, allowing the team to develop deep strategic insight and courtroom experience in one of the most complex areas of criminal law.

The firm is led by Michelle Skura, Esq., who has spent more than a decade representing clients facing some of the most serious allegations a person can encounter. Her leadership emphasizes aggressive, constitutionally grounded advocacy, ensuring that each client’s rights are protected while building a strong, carefully structured defense.

That dedicated focus on felony sex crime defense is a defining strength of the practice. By concentrating their entire caseload on this area, the attorneys are able to navigate sensitive legal issues such as sexual assault, exploitation, and related charges with a high level of precision and preparedness.

The firm’s reputation is reinforced by national recognition, including Michelle Skura’s distinction as a Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorney by the National Trial Lawyers. Such recognition reflects both legal skill and a sustained commitment to protecting individual rights in high-stakes criminal cases.

Clients benefit from confidential consultations and personalized defense strategies designed to address the unique circumstances of each case. The team provides guidance through every stage of the legal process, from early investigations to trial preparation, helping clients stay informed and supported during a highly stressful time.

With a flagship office in Mesa and an additional presence serving the central Phoenix area, VS Criminal Defense Attorneys is well positioned to assist clients across the Valley. Their focused expertise, strong reputation, and client-centered approach make them a trusted option for individuals seeking dedicated representation in felony sex crime defense.

5. DM Cantor

DM Cantor Homepage

Practice Areas: DUI & Vehicular Crimes, Assault/Violent Crimes, Precharge “Investigation Stage”, Probation/Sentence Termination, Sex Crimes, Drug Crimes, Post Conviction Issues/ Appeals, Forfeiture Cases, Fraud/Theft Crimes, Crimes Against Property, Expunge/Restore Rights, Release Hearings & Extradition, White Collar Crimes, Miscellaneous Crimes, Probation Violations, Juvenile Cases 

Website: https://dmcantor.com/

Address: 40 N Central Ave Suite 2300, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Contact Details: +1 602-307-0808

Operating Hours: 24/7

Google reviews score4.5/5
Yelp reviews score3.5/5
Facebook reviews scoreN/A
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency3/5
Client Satisfaction3.75/5
Accessibility5/5
⮕Operating Hours5/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise4.3/5
⮕Years of Experience4/5
⮕Distinctions4/5
⮕Eloquence5/5
Professionalism4/5

Pros

  • Over 5000 case victories 
  • Worked high profile cases 
  • Multi-awarded 
  • Available 24/7

Cons

  • Expensive 
  • Not a lot of information on website 

With over 5000 case victories, DM Cantor has made its name as a criminal defense law firm in Phoenix. Their solid track record, helpfulness, and accessibility are some of the reasons a lot of people recommend them as a firm. 

We were personally impressed by the fact that they have three Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists per the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization in their team. They also have a history handling a lot of high profile cases featured by the media. 

They have a wide range of attorneys and staff who can help you with your case. All of them have their own specializations, making it much easier to find someone who can best help you. 

It’s also important to note that Atty. David Cantor, the founder of the firm, has been given numerous awards like Best Criminal Defense Attorney and Best DUI Attorney. So if you’re faced with a DUI case, they’re a great option to consider. 

As a firm, they are AV® rated by Martindale Hubbell, which is the highest known rating. They’re also listed in the Criminal Law Section of the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers. 

As for their approach, they’re very aggressive. As they said on their website, “If there is any defense to a criminal allegation (either factual or technical), the David Michael Cantor Criminal Defense Team will find it and utilize it to your benefit”. 

Their assurance and proven track record can really help a client feel at ease, based on our experience. They also give free initial consultations. 

We did notice ,however, that the price for their services can get really expensive. So that’s something to consider with this law firm. 

6. Jason D. Lamm Attorney at Law

Jason D. Lamm Attorney at Law Homepage

Practice Areas: Aggravated Assault, Arson, Asset Forfeitures, Domestic Violence, Defending Professionals, Drug Trafficking, Expungements, Federal Crimes, Fraud, High Profile Cases, Indecent Exposure, Murder & Homicide, Sex Crimes, Vehicular Crimes, White Collar Crimes

Website: https://www.thephoenixcriminalattorney.com/

Address: 2501 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States

Contact Details: +1 602-663-9100

Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (8:30 AM-5PM); Saturday- Sunday -CLOSED

Google reviews score5/5
Yelp reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews scoreN/A
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency4/5
Client Satisfaction4.5/5
Accessibility4/5
⮕Operating Hours3/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise4.6/5
⮕Years of Experience4/5
⮕Distinctions5/5
⮕Eloquence4/5
Professionalism4/5

Pros

  • Over 25 years of criminal defense experience 
  • Former major felony prosecutor 
  • Makes an effort to have a close attorney-client relationship
  • Flexible fee arrangement options 

Cons

  • Closed on weekends 
  • Exclusively handles criminal defense cases 

With over 25 years of experience, Jason D. Lamm Attorney at Law is a boutique criminal defense firm that’s known for their excellent track record and extensive experience. 

With their perfect Google Reviews score, we got curious to see why many say they’re some of the best in the business. 

What we love about this firm is how personal they are with their clients. They’re professional but still really make an effort to form a close attorney-client relationship. 

Attorney Jason D. Lamm, who leads the firm, is actually a former major felony prosecutor. He is known for his detailed and relentless investigation skills and aggressive approach to cases. 

We felt at ease because we know this experience allows him to anticipate what the prosecution will say and fight it strategically. 

Jason D. Lamm Attorney at Law is composed of a small team since they’re a boutique firm. From our experience, one of the advantages of this is you really get focused attention and get exactly what you paid for. 

However, their firm exclusively handles criminal defense cases. So if your case is complex and would need experience in other practice areas, it might be best to check out the other firms on this list. 

As for their fee arrangements, you can either pay them a flat fee or an hourly fee depending on which will benefit you the most. If it’s a case that will continue for a significant period of time, you can opt to pay them a flat fee as this is more economical. 

7. Orent Law Offices, PLC

Orent Law Offices, PLC Homepage

Practice Areas: Violent Crimes, Domestic Violence, Drug Crimes, Sex Crimes, DUI Crimes, Juvenile Crimes, Theft Crimes, White Collar Crimes, Weapons Charges, among others

Website: https://www.orentcriminallaw.com/

Address: 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028, United States

Contact Details: +1 480-656-7301

Operating Hours: 24/7

Google reviews score5/5
Yelp reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews scoreN/A
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Client Satisfaction4.8/5
Accessibility5/5
⮕Operating Hours5/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise4.3/5
⮕Years of Experience4/5
⮕Distinctions4/5
⮕Eloquence5/5
Professionalism4/5

Pros

  • Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the State Bar of Arizona
  • 33 years of experience 
  • Free initial consultation
  • Open 24/7

Cons

  • No reliable online booking system 
  • Not a lot of information on website 
  • Only specializes in Arizona criminal law 

Garnering a perfect score on Google Reviews and significantly positive feedback, we went to check out the services of Orent Law Offices, PLC to see what they had to offer. We were thoroughly impressed by what we experienced. 

Although they’re a small firm, we can really see how dedicated and how thorough they are with the cases they take on. Their attorney and founder, Craig Orent, has over 33 years of experience and it really shows in his performance. 

We found him very aggressive, straightforward, and passionate in what he does. He’s also a Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the State Bar of Arizona so he has extensive experience and expertise in handling criminal defense cases in the area. 

In his own words, he guarantees that he will personally represent all of his clients and defend and advocate for their best interests and constitutional rights. This guarantee really helps clients like us feel reassured. 

We also like that they’re highly accessible, being available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They also offer free initial consultations so your case can be assessed thoroughly. 

We do wish they had more information on their website because it made it inconvenient to look through their services. They also don’t have a reliable online booking process, but they respond fast through phone calls and email. 

Do know that they only specialize and focus on Arizona criminal law, so if your case is complex and needs expertise on other practice areas, it might be best to check out the other firms on our list. 

8. Law Offices of David A. Black

Law Offices of David A. Black Homepage

Practice Areas: Assault, Appeals, Burglary, Campus Crimes, Counterfeiting, Domestic Violence, DUIs, Drug Crimes, Harassment, Federal Crimes, Homicide, Identity Theft, Internet Crimes, Juvenile Crimes, Probation, Stalking, Theft, Warrant Lawyer, Weapons Crimes, White Collar

Website: https://www.dbphoenixcriminallawyer.com/

Address: 40 N Central Ave #1850, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Contact Details: +1 480-280-8028

Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (7AM-5PM); Saturday- Sunday (8AM-5 PM) 

Google reviews score4.9/5
Yelp reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews score4.7/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency4/5
Client Satisfaction4.5/5
Accessibility4.5/5
⮕Operating Hours4/5
⮕Responsiveness5/5
Expertise4.6/5
⮕Years of Experience4/5
⮕Distinctions5/5
⮕Eloquence5/5
Professionalism4/5

Pros

  • Limited client list so they can focus on each case 
  • Reasonable fees
  • Very communicative 
  • Good peer reviews
  • Free phone consultation

Cons

  • Small team of lawyers 
  • No solid online booking system 

With their perfect score on AVVO (an attorney rating site), one of the highest possible peer ratings on Martindale-Hubbell, and A+ grade on Better Business Bureau, we were curious to look into the services of the  Law Offices of David A. Black. We weren’t disappointed. 

Practicing as a law firm since 2008, we were impressed by their rich experience in handling criminal defense cases and breadth of knowledge of the Phoenix legal environment.  

All of the lawyers in their firm had a proven track record and different specializations and experiences, making it easy to find one who can effectively help you with your case. 

Although they’re a small team, they’ve proven time and time again that they’re effective. Aside from their consistent level of expertise, they’re all very professional.

They communicate well and are easily accessible, which are both very important traits to look out for. We like that they’re open all days of the week. 

They make sure to walk you through every step of the way with your best interest in mind. From the moment you inquire, everything is handled meticulously and thoroughly, based on our experience. 

We also like that they’re reasonably priced compared to other law firms and even offer initial phone consultations free of charge. There are no hidden charges, they’re very upfront with their services. 

They also limit the size of their client list so you’re sure that you’re getting personalized and focused attention. We saw that through their thorough consultations and prompt replies to inquiries. 

Consulting with them made us feel reassured because of how well they communicate and how they attack your case from every possible angle. 

We do wish they have a better online booking system. We personally found it better to just reach them through the phone. 

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