The best criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix in 2025 pair trial-tested results with deep knowledge of Arizona law and Maricopa County courts. This guide highlights top Phoenix criminal defense attorneys for felonies, DUI, domestic violence, and federal charges based on courtroom experience, case outcomes, peer recognition, and verified client feedback.
Finding the best criminal defense lawyer in Phoenix can shape your case—and your future. Arizona criminal law and Maricopa County procedures move quickly, so the attorneys featured here are selected for proven trial experience, meaningful case results, strong peer recognition, and consistent client reviews across DUI, assault, drug crime, domestic violence and other criminal matters.
Use this 2025 list to compare strengths (former prosecutor experience, board certifications, complex motion practice, 24/7 availability, bilingual service) and choose a Phoenix criminal defense attorney whose strategy, responsiveness, and fees fit your situation.
Below is a list of the best criminal defense attorneys in Phoenix that I recommend:
Best Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorneys
- Omer Gurion – Gurion Legal
- Stewart Salwin – Salwin Law
- Michael Alarid III – Law Offices of Michael Alarid III
- Daniel Hutto – Law Offices of Daniel Hutto
- Josephine Hallam – Hallam Law Group
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My name is Omer Gurion, and I am the founding attorney of Gurion Legal. I am a board-certified criminal law specialist and have handled over 150 trials, including 40 felony trials. With my years of experience, I’ve seen how a skilled criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case. Below, I will share the top five criminal defense attorneys in Phoenix that I trust and recommend.
While I represent clients facing criminal charges, I believe in providing you with all your options. The following are attorneys that I’ve worked with or know personally. They are dedicated, experienced, and provide excellent representation to their clients.
Why would I recommend my competitors? I want you to have the best possible defense for your case. The stakes are high, and having a top criminal defense law firm in your corner can make all the difference.
Criminal charges in Arizona carry heavy penalties, including jail time, fines, and the lasting impact of a criminal record.
What Makes Me Qualified to Recommend Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorneys?
- Online directories are a pay-to-play form of advertisement. Unlike directories like Avvo, Justia, or Yelp, I am an experienced attorney who has fought for clients in Arizona’s criminal justice system for years. This gives me the expertise to recommend top-tier attorneys.
- As a board-certified criminal law specialist, I have extensive trial experience and have worked on numerous felony cases. My experience ensures that my recommendations are based on firsthand knowledge of what makes an excellent criminal defense lawyer.
- I have handled over 150 trials, including 40 felony trials.
While I encourage you to contact me first, I also believe in giving you a list of other highly-qualified attorneys to consider.
With that context, here are the top Phoenix criminal defense attorneys I would point a family member to first. Each is included for specific, verifiable credentials and trial experience—no ads, no pay-to-play.
1. Omer Gurion – Gurion Legal
Attorney Omer Gurion is a board-certified criminal law specialist with over 150 trials under his belt, including 40 felony trials. He has been named a Southwest Super Lawyer Top 40 Under 40 and has received numerous accolades from Ranking Arizona and National Trial Lawyers.
Omer’s extensive experience in criminal defense and his dedication to his clients make him one of the top choices for anyone facing criminal charges in Phoenix. Whether you need help with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, Omer Gurion is well-prepared to fight for your rights.
If you need a strong advocate, don’t hesitate to reach out to Gurion Legal.
2. Stewart Salwin — Salwin Law Group
Attorney Stewart Salwin is a Harvard Law School graduate and former Maricopa County prosecutor. He has practiced law in Arizona since 2009, has handled thousands of DUI and criminal cases, and has conducted more than 70 trials.
His background includes prosecuting felony and misdemeanor matters at the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and defending DUI and criminal cases throughout the Phoenix area. Additional details are available on the firm’s DUI practice page.
3. Michael Alarid III — Law Office of Michael Alarid III
Attorney Michael Alarid III is an Arizona Board‑Certified Specialist in Criminal Law and is board‑certified in DUI Defense by the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD).
According to his firm, he is one of only five attorneys in Arizona with NCDD board certification and one of only two in Arizona holding both certifications. His published case results include dismissals and charge reductions in DUI and felony matters, and he has been selected to Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2022).
4. Daniel Hutto — Law Office of Daniel Hutto
Attorney Daniel Hutto is a former Maricopa County Attorney’s Office prosecutor who advanced to the Vehicular Crimes Division, where he prosecuted DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and other major offenses.
Before founding his firm, he worked at a large Arizona criminal defense practice handling complex felony cases, including homicide, sex crimes, domestic violence, DUI, and vehicular offenses. His firm bio outlines this progression and practice focus.
5. Josephine Hallam — Hallam Law Group
Attorney Josephine Hallam is a former Maricopa County Public Defender Trial Group Supervisor who managed a felony trial team and taught CLE at the Arizona Public Defender Association conference (2013–2017).
Her experience includes handling more than a thousand cases and first‑ or second‑chairing felony trials ranging from drug sales to murder, as detailed in her firm biography.
Phoenix Criminal Defense FAQs
When should you hire a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer?
You should hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after being arrested. The sooner you have an experienced attorney representing you, the better your chances are of building a strong defense.
Do you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer “near me”?
No, but it’s important to hire a lawyer familiar with the local court system. Local attorneys understand the nuances of Arizona’s laws and courts, which can significantly benefit your defense.
What is the average cost for a criminal defense lawyer in Phoenix?
The cost varies widely, typically ranging from $1,500 to $10,000 or more depending on the case. Be sure to discuss fees with any potential lawyer to understand their payment structure.
Can criminal charges be dismissed in Arizona?
Yes, charges can be dismissed, but it depends on the specifics of your case. Factors like a lack of probable cause or constitutional violations can lead to dismissals, which an experienced attorney will know how to identify.
What percentage of criminal cases are dismissed in Arizona?
The percentage of criminal cases dismissed can vary widely. In Arizona, a study found that about 28% of criminal cases were dismissed in some jurisdictions. This rate fluctuates based on the specific details of each case.
What is the best defense in a criminal case?
The best defense in a criminal case depends on the facts, but common strong defenses include proving mistaken identity, lack of evidence, self-defense, violation of your constitutional rights, or showing that the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof.
How to find the best criminal defense lawyer?
When seeking the best criminal defense attorney for your case, consider asking trusted friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive legal representation in the specific area of defense you require. Another option is to look online or reach out to the local bar association and ask for referrals.
Once you have a list of potential criminal defense lawyers, research each attorney online, paying close attention to reviews and peer reputation. Evaluate their trial experience and success rates, as a strong courtroom presence can be crucial for your defense. Book a consultation with each attorney to assess their communication style and suitability for your case.
We’re Proud to Serve the Phoenix Area
Whether you’re in Downtown Phoenix or out in Surprise, our criminal defense team is ready 24/7 to protect your rights. We represent clients across the Phoenix metro, including:
- Downtown Phoenix
- Encanto
- Roosevelt Row
- Midtown
- Arcadia
- Biltmore
- Camelback East
- Sunnyslope
- Desert Ridge
- Maryvale
- Deer Valley
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
- Mesa
- Chandler
- Gilbert
- Glendale
- Peoria
- Surprise
- Avondale
- Goodyear
Contact a Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, don’t wait. Contact the Phoenix criminal defense lawyers at Gurion Legal today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your rights and your future.
You can either call us today at (480) 800-0020 or fill out a short contact form on our website for a free consultation to discuss your case and how we can help.
