Finding the Best Criminal Defense Attorney in Memphis, Tennessee

Getting arrested for a crime in Memphis can be a scary and overwhelming experience. The consequences of a criminal conviction can haunt you for the rest of your life. Having the right criminal defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference in getting your charges reduced or dismissed. But with so many options to choose from, how do you find the best criminal lawyer in Memphis to handle your case?

I did some research on the top-rated criminal defense attorneys in the Memphis area and here’s what I learned. Hopefully this info helps you make an informed decision if you ever need to hire a criminal lawyer in Memphis, TN.

Factors to Consider When Hiring a Memphis Criminal Attorney

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when evaluating criminal defense lawyers in Memphis:

• Experience handling your specific type of criminal charges – You’ll want to find someone who regularly deals with cases similar to yours, whether it’s drug crimes, theft, domestic violence, etc. Look for plenty of relevant experience.
• Courtroom track record – Find out about their success rate in getting charges dismissed, reduced, or reaching favorable plea bargains. A proven courtroom track record is important.
• Reputation with prosecutors and judges – The best lawyers develop relationships with court staff and have a reputation for being skilled negotiators and advocates. Those connections can really help.
• Credentials – Make sure they have the proper licenses, education, and certifications to practice criminal defense law in Memphis and the state of Tennessee.
• Personality fit – You’ll be working closely together, so find someone you feel comfortable with and who is responsive to your needs as a client.
• Affordability – Their fees should be reasonable compared to other Memphis criminal defense attorneys. Ask about payment plans if needed.

Top Memphis Criminal Defense Law Firms

Here are some of the top-rated and most respected criminal defense law practices in the Memphis area (in no particular order):

The Law Office of J. Jeffrey Lee

Located in downtown Memphis, The Law Office of J. Jeffrey Lee has an excellent reputation and primarily represents clients facing serious felony charges including sex crimes, domestic violence, and drug offenses. Founding attorney Jeff Lee is a former prosecutor who now puts his courtroom experience to work defending clients in Memphis, TN and the surrounding areas.

Mitch Stegall Law

Mitch Stegall is a Memphis criminal defense attorney who handles state and federal charges ranging from DUI to sex crimes and murder. He is known for his aggressive courtroom style and thorough case preparation. Stegall Law has extensive experience defending clients in Shelby County and Memphis courts.

The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm

Claiborne Ferguson is a former Shelby County prosecutor who opened his own criminal defense practice in Memphis in 2012. He handles a wide range of misdemeanor and felony criminal charges. Ferguson is praised for his communication skills and for keeping clients fully informed at every stage of their case. The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm has an excellent track record in Memphis courts.

The Weinhaus Law Firm

Led by attorney Lee Gerald, The Weinhaus Law Firm provides aggressive criminal defense in Memphis and surrounding areas of Tennessee. They handle serious felony charges including murder, rape, robbery, drug trafficking, and white collar crimes. Gerald is known for his meticulous trial preparation and tenacious courtroom advocacy.

The Law Office of John P. Colton Jr.

John Colton is an experienced Memphis criminal defense lawyer who represents clients in Shelby County and federal courts. He handles a wide array of misdemeanor and felony charges including DUI, theft, domestic assault, drug crimes, sex offenses, and juvenile cases. Colton is praised for his communication skills and compassion for clients. The Law Office of John P. Colton Jr. is known for achieving favorable outcomes in tough cases.

How to Choose the Right Memphis Criminal Lawyer for Your Case

Here are some tips on choosing the best criminal defense attorney for your specific needs in Memphis:

• Narrow down your options – Focus on lawyers with plenty of experience handling cases like yours. Look for proven results and a good reputation.
• Schedule consultations – Many offer free case evaluations. This is your chance to meet and get a feel for potential attorneys.
• Ask questions – Inquire about their track record with cases similar to yours, legal fees, communication style, resources they use, etc.
• Go with your gut – Pay attention to how comfortable you feel talking to them. A good lawyer-client relationship is important.
• Compare costs – Get fee quotes from your top choices. Look for affordable payment plans if needed.
• Check reviews – Look online for client reviews and testimonials to get feedback on lawyers you’re considering.
• Make a decision – Choose the Memphis criminal defense attorney that you feel most confident in based on their credentials, experience, and rapport with you.

What to Expect When Working with a Memphis Criminal Lawyer

Here’s an overview of what typically happens when you hire a criminal defense attorney in Memphis:

• Initial consultation – This first meeting allows you to explain your legal situation. The lawyer will advise you on your options and rights.
• Case review and investigation – Your attorney will gather information about your arrest, research the applicable laws, analyze evidence, etc.
• Case strategy – They’ll determine the best legal strategies and defenses to fight the charges against you.
• Motions and hearings – Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or negotiate a plea bargain.
• Trial preparation – If your case goes to trial, your attorney will handle tasks like interviewing witnesses, submitting evidence, preparing arguments, etc.
• Court appearances – Your lawyer will represent you at arraignments, hearings, plea bargains, trial, and sentencing if needed.
• Post-trial options – If you’re convicted, they can advise you on appeals, sentence reductions, and other post-trial motions.

A skilled criminal defense lawyer can make the legal process much less intimidating. Be sure to choose someone you trust to protect your rights and guide you through each stage of your case.

Finding the Right Fit

Getting charged with a crime in Memphis can be overwhelming. But finding the right criminal defense lawyer can give you invaluable peace of mind and greatly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Take the time to research and compare your attorney options in the Memphis area. Schedule consultations and find someone with the right mix of experience, reputation, resources, and rapport. With an experienced criminal lawyer on your side, you can face the legal process with confidence.