The Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Columbia, Missouri
Finding yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. Your freedom, livelihood, and reputation are on the line, so it’s crucial to find an attorney who will fight tirelessly on your behalf.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Columbia, Missouri, you’ll want to secure representation from one of the city’s top criminal defense firms. These attorneys have decades of combined experience defending clients against a wide range of criminal allegations – from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most capable and client-focused criminal defense attorneys in Columbia. We’ll provide an overview of each firm and attorney, highlight their areas of expertise, and give actionable advice to help you choose the right lawyer for your specific legal needs.
What Makes a Great Criminal Defense Attorney?
When researching criminal defense lawyers in Columbia, make sure to look for attorneys who exhibit the following qualities:
- Expertise in criminal law – They should have extensive knowledge of Missouri criminal statutes and procedure. Preferably, criminal law is their main practice area.
- Courtroom experience – Seasoned litigators who aren’t afraid to take cases to trial and argue before judges and juries.
- Negotiation skills – They should be able to negotiate firmly and effectively with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Client focus – They treat clients with respect and regularly communicate case developments.
- Resources – Well-resourced firms can hire private investigators, forensic experts, and legal researchers.
- Results – A track record of getting positive outcomes for clients facing criminal charges.
Below are some of the best criminal defense attorneys in Columbia exhibiting these attributes:
Faber Law Firm
For more than 20 years, Faber Law Firm has provided aggressive and personalized representation exclusively in criminal defense matters. Founding attorney Russell Faber is a former prosecutor who now zealously defends clients against DWI, drug possession, sex crimes, theft, and other felony and misdemeanor charges.
Mr. Faber is praised for his courtroom skills, ability to identify procedural and evidentiary issues, and success negotiating favorable plea bargains with prosecutors. He also handles record expungements and driver’s license reinstatements.
The Faber Law Firm team has experience guiding clients through all stages of a criminal case – from initial police encounters, to grand jury proceedings, through trial and sentencing. Their track record of positive case results provides clients the confidence to fight criminal allegations rather than accept a quick plea deal.
Susan Holder Law
Trial attorney Susan Holder founded her Columbia firm on the belief that everyone deserves tenacious legal advocacy regardless of their prior history or ability to pay legal fees.
For over 15 years, Ms. Holder has leveraged her experience as a former prosecutor to build an impressive track record defending clients against DWI, drug crimes, sex offenses, domestic violence, and other felony and misdemeanor charges.
Known for her relentless pursuit of the most favorable case outcomes, Susan Holder thoroughly investigates the circumstances of each case and identifies procedural problems with the prosecution’s approach. She also has earned a reputation for delivering compelling arguments before judges and juries.
Ms. Holder’s commitment to personalized service gives clients confidence their case is a top priority. She takes the time to explain the legal process and provides regular case updates.
Slusher Law Firm
The Slusher Law Firm provides skilled representation in all aspects of criminal defense, including DWI/DUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, weapons charges, and probation violations.
Founding attorney Matthew Slusher is a Columbia native who attended the University of Missouri School of Law. His experience includes over 10 years as a public defender where he handled a high volume of criminal cases.
Mr. Slusher is known for carefully listening to clients, investigating every angle of their case, identifying improper police conduct, and developing a comprehensive defense strategy. He prepares meticulously for court hearings and leaves no stone unturned fighting for the best possible outcome for his clients.
The Slusher Law Firm offers reasonable payment plans and works efficiently to resolve cases as quickly as circumstances permit. Clients appreciate Mr. Slusher’s honest case assessments and advice.
Riley & Stingley Law Firm
The criminal defense attorneys at Riley & Stingley handle a wide array of misdemeanor and felony charges including DUI, drug crimes, weapons offenses, sex crimes, domestic violence, and white collar crimes.
Founding partners John Riley and Bryant Stingley are both former prosecutors who apply their experience on both sides of criminal cases to effectively defend clients. Their combined 50+ years of criminal law experience includes hundreds of trials and successful appeals.
The Riley & Stingley team thoroughly investigates the facts of each case and identifies improper police conduct. They use their strong negotiation skills to obtain reduced charges and penalties in many cases. When necessary, they vigorously defend clients before juries.
Both former prosecutors, Mr. Riley and Mr. Stingley have insider knowledge of the local court system and relationships with current prosecutors that often benefits their clients. Clients appreciate the attorneys’ honest yet compassionate counsel when navigating difficult criminal matters.
Scott Hamblin Law Firm
Scott Hamblin is an experienced trial lawyer who represents individuals and businesses facing criminal charges. His clients include professionals, executives, and college students facing complex white collar criminal allegations.
Mr. Hamblin is a Columbia native who previously worked as a prosecutor and public defender. He leverages his extensive courtroom experience and in-depth knowledge of criminal law and procedure to achieve case dismissals and avoid convictions whenever possible.
The Scott Hamblin Law Firm thoroughly investigates the facts of each case and identifies improper police conduct that can result in evidence suppression. Mr. Hamblin prepares meticulously for hearings and trials. His ability to find reasonable doubt in the prosecution’s case has resulted in many not guilty verdicts over the years.
Mr. Hamblin is known for keeping clients fully informed throughout their case. He takes time to explain the legal process and provides his honest assessment of the case outcome. His personalized attention provides clients confidence during an extremely difficult time.
Choosing the Best Attorney for Your Situation
As you can see, Columbia has no shortage of experienced criminal defense lawyers ready to help clients navigate misdemeanor and felony criminal charges.
It’s important to choose an attorney who is the right fit for your specific legal situation. Factors to consider include the lawyer’s area of expertise, fee structure, client service style, and overall track record getting positive results for clients facing similar criminal allegations.
Don’t hesitate to ask prospective attorneys detailed questions during initial consultations. Compare their responses to make an informed hiring decision. The stakes are high, so it’s worth taking time to choose the right criminal defense lawyer.
With an experienced Columbia criminal defense attorney in your corner, you can feel confident your legal rights are protected. Let them handle the details of your case while you focus on moving forward with your life.