Practice Areas

Client-Centered, Strategic Defense

We build customized defense strategies around your circumstances, evidence, and goals. That can include challenging traffic stops and field sobriety tests in DUI cases, attacking forensic or digital evidence in sex crimes and white collar matters, or presenting mitigation, treatment, or background information that can change how a prosecutor evaluates your case.

Our goal is always to improve your position. Sometimes that is a dismissal or not-guilty verdict. Other times it is a charge reduction, alternative sentencing, or an agreement that keeps you out of prison. Our record that fewer than 1% of our clients have been sent to prison reflects that focus, but it is not a guarantee of future results. Every case is different, and we will give you direct, realistic advice about your options.

Flexible Fee Structures & Military Discounts

We know cost is a major concern when you are facing criminal charges. We offer flat fees, hourly rates, and contingency arrangements, depending on the type of case, so you understand how your defense will be billed before you commit. Military discounts are available for qualifying clients as part of our commitment to those who have served.

You can start with a free, no-obligation, confidential case review, conducted virtually or in our office, so you can ask questions and decide whether we are the right fit without risk.

Criminal Charges We Defend Throughout Utah

We defend clients at every level of the Utah criminal justice system, from infractions to serious felony defense, in both state and federal courts. Whether you are at the investigation stage or already charged, we can step in quickly to protect your constitutional rights and manage contact with law enforcement and prosecutors.

Our practice includes representation in Veterans Court and Mental Health Court when those programs are appropriate. We have also represented out-of-state clients who face charges arising from incidents in Utah, helping them navigate cases from a distance whenever possible.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services

• DUI defense: Utah's 0.05% BAC threshold is the strictest in the country, which makes challenging stops, testing, and procedures especially important.
• Sex crimes defense: We defend against charges that may carry Utah sex offender registry requirements, which can range from 10 years to lifetime registration.
• Violent crimes: Assault, domestic violence, robbery, homicide-related charges, and other offenses that can expose you to lengthy prison terms.
• Drug crimes: Possession, distribution, manufacturing, and prescription-related offenses in both state and federal court.
• Theft and fraud defense: Shoplifting, embezzlement, credit card fraud, and other property or financial crimes.
• White collar crimes: Securities matters, wire fraud, mail fraud, and other complex financial investigations.
• Juvenile defense: Advocacy for minors facing allegations in juvenile court.
• Record expungement: Assistance pursuing record expungement when Utah law allows, so past charges do not continue to limit your future.
• Appeals: Appellate representation when you need to challenge a conviction or sentence.

Whatever the charge, we work to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, move to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and pursue plea bargaining, diversion, or trial representation as your situation requires.

What Clients Say About Working With Us

Client reviews consistently mention case dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, and significant charge reductions, reflecting the impact of a detailed, aggressive defense. Many clients note that our flat-fee pricing provided clarity during a financially stressful time, because they understood costs before making decisions.

Reviews describe our team as responsive, proactive, and prepared, often before we have even formally accepted a case. Clients appreciate that we communicate clearly, answer questions directly, and keep them informed about what is happening and why at each stage. That level of engagement is one reason we have more 5-star Google reviews than any criminal defense firm in Utah.

Utah Criminal Defense FAQ

What Does A Criminal Defense Lawyer Actually Do For Me?

Our role is to protect your rights and improve your outcome. We interview you, investigate the facts, review and challenge the prosecution's evidence, and identify legal issues that can lead to suppression or dismissal. We negotiate plea agreements when that is in your interest and provide full trial representation if your case proceeds to a jury or bench trial.

We also assist with jury selection, prepare you and your witnesses to testify when appropriate, and advise you on sentencing options, collateral consequences, and potential long-term impacts of any resolution.

Should I Hire A Lawyer If I Think I Might Be Guilty?

Yes. Even if you believe you may be guilty of some or all of the allegations, there is often a wide range of possible outcomes. A defense attorney can work to secure reduced charges, alternative sentencing, probation, treatment-based resolutions, or other results that are far better than the maximum penalties the law allows.

Your constitutional rights apply regardless of guilt or innocence. Our job is to enforce those rights and to push for the most favorable outcome the facts and law allow.

Do I Have To Talk To The Police?

No. You are not legally required to answer police questions. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Invoking those rights early and clearly is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself.

If officers want to question you, politely state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and that you want to speak with an attorney, then contact us immediately. We can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf and help you avoid statements that could harm your case.

How Long Can Prosecutors Wait To File Charges In Utah?

In Utah, the general statute of limitations for many felonies is three years, and for most misdemeanors it is one year. Some offenses, such as certain fraud and felony sex crimes, can carry longer limitation periods, and murder has no statute of limitations.

If you believe you are under investigation, you should not wait for charges to be filed before speaking with an attorney. Early intervention can shape how a case is charged or even whether it is filed at all.

How Much Will It Cost To Hire Wasatch Defense Lawyers?

The cost of your defense depends on the type of case, the stage of the proceedings, and the amount of work required. We offer flat fees, hourly rates, and contingency arrangements where permitted, and we will explain your options clearly before you sign anything. Military discounts are available.

We start with a free, no-obligation, confidential case review, which can be held virtually or in our office. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about potential strategies, and understand what working with us would look like.

Talk To Utah's Largest Criminal Defense Team Today

Criminal charges move quickly, and early decisions can affect everything from bail conditions to plea offers. When you contact Wasatch Defense Lawyers, you get direct access to a large, trial-tested defense team that knows how Utah prosecutors, judges, and courts operate.

Our combination of 100+ years of defense experience, 650+ trials, and a record in which fewer than 1% of our clients have been sent to prison is unique in Utah. Put that experience to work for you before you take another step in your case.

Call (801) 459-8909 now or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential case review with our criminal defense team.