2024
Last updated:
Our Recommended Top 19
We did the research for you!
Licensing- User Reviews
- Mystery Shopping Calls
Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored New Orleans Criminal Defense Attorneys on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.
243Reviewed
153Curated
19Top Picks
Learn about our selection process.
Providers
=
Featured Provider
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.6 (63)
- Yelp
- 4.0 (9)
(63)Why choose this provider?
Bloom Legal LLC is a law firm in New Orleans handling criminal defense needs. Its clients are highly diverse as it provides representation for a wide range of violent, sex-based, and drug-based crimes as well as property offenses and white-collar crime. The firm provides defense in court and negotiation assistance with prosecutors. It also offers consultation for the expungement process and can assist with traffic tickets of various types. Bloom Legal LLC handles personal injury litigation too.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Seth Bloom - Founder | Active | 21 yrs |
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.6 (7)
- Yelp
- 5.0 (2)
Why choose this provider?
Orleans Legal LLC is a New Orleans-based law firm offering criminal defense services to clients throughout the metro area. This practice handles charges related to violent crimes such as domestic violence or general assault and battery cases as well as offenses involving drugs or weapons. It defends clients both from abuse by the legal system and prosecution using available evidence to build a case against the charges. If the opportunity to build a strong defense is not there, it can help clients make plea deals.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Giacomo Castrogiovanni - Principal | Active | 10 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Mordock Legal is a law firm in New Orleans handling criminal cases by providing consultation and legal defense both in and outside of court. This firm's defense services are heavily focused on general sex crimes and rape accusations, but it also handles DWI and white-collar crime cases. It assists clients by protecting their rights during the trial process and attempting to defend their innocence using evidence or reaching agreements with prosecutors if the former is not possible.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Craig Mordock - Managing Attorney | Active | 24 yrs |
| Craig Mordock - Principal | Active | 24 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
DiGiulio Utley LLC is a law firm representing clients throughout the New Orleans metro area. Founded in 2008, it handles federal and state criminal defense cases involving drug and alcohol-related violations, violent offenses, property crime arrests, and white-collar crimes, including embezzlement, fraud, forgery, money laundering, public corruption, and bribery. The firm's attorneys provide an aggressive defense to ensure clients' rights are upheld. DiGiulio Utley LLC also takes personal injury claims, such as car, truck, and motorcycle collisions.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Dylan Utley - Partner | Active | 22 yrs |
| Ariel Digiulio - Partner | Active | 19 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
For over five years, Forrest, Cressy & James Attorneys at Law has been working with New Orleans clients. The firm deals with criminal law cases and defends individuals accused of crimes like DUI and DWI. It challenges a range of evidence, from witness testimonies to the law enforcement's search procedures, to prove the client's innocence. The firm also works on personal injury cases and advocates for auto accident victims. Byron Forrest, one of its founding partners, is the co-founder of the Veterans Advocacy Legal Society.
- Juvenile Crimes
- Drug Crimes
- DWI/DUI
Why choose this provider?
Gary Bizal, Attorney at Law, offers legal solutions to clients in New Orleans and its neighboring areas. Bizal has been practicing law for over 30 years. He works on cases that involve criminal, civil, and personal injury law. Bizal has experience in state and federal courts in Texas, California, Alabama, and Louisiana. He has also tried criminal jury and civil judge trials. His experience includes working as a public defender in a private law firm.
- DWI/DUI
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Crimes
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
The Law Office of Eugene P. Redmann caters to the legal needs of clients in and around New Orleans. Its lead counsel, Euegene P. Redmann, defends individuals who have been accused of theft, DUI/DWI, probation violation, attempted murder, and drug abuse. He reviews each case to provide clients with the best possible result, which can be a sentence reduction, a plea bargain, or an acquittal. Redmann has been in private practice for over 25 years.
- DWI/DUI
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Crimes
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 5.0 (1)
Why choose this provider?
The Handy Law Firm, LLC, advocates for the accused in New Orleans. Lead attorney Matthew K. Handy understands that people make mistakes that can have serious consequences in their personal and professional lives if they are not properly defended. He represents clients who have been arrested for crimes such as DUI/DWI and assists those who have been convicted to move past their mistakes through expungement. He also deals with personal injury cases. Handy has been working to protect citizens' rights in Louisiana since 2015.
- DWI/DUI
Why choose this provider?
Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys is a law firm in Metairie serving the entire New Orleans metro area. The firm offers criminal defense representation to clients prosecuted for DWI offenses. When clients have been accused of driving while intoxicated and committing peripheral crimes such as manslaughter or property destruction, the firm protects their rights during the legal process and helps them to appeal for leniency or fight the charges if evidence suggesting their innocence is significant.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Cristin Jacobs - Associate | Active | 6 yrs |
| Michael Brandner - Principal | Active | 22 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Martzell, Bickford & Centola has been catering to clients in New Orleans for over five decades. It represents individuals charged with criminal offenses such as possession and distribution of drugs, assault, sex crimes, theft, murder, and DUI. Its lawyers provide personal attention to each case and strive to come up with practical solutions to their clients' legal problems. The firm also handles legal malpractice, property damage claims, and class action lawsuits. Principal Scott Bickford is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals.
- Federal Crime
Why choose this provider?
Located in New Orleans, the Law Office of Stephen J. Haedicke caters to clients across the local metro. It offers counsel to individuals charged with crimes like DWI, drug crimes, contractor fraud, money laundering, and homicide. The firm fights hard for its clients both at trial and at sentencing, if necessary, using the defendant's life story and medical records in the representation process to help avoid adverse outcomes. Founder Stephen Haedicke is the recipient of the Outstanding Leader Award in 2019 from the Federal Bar Association. He is also licensed to practice in Georgia.
- Drug Crimes
- DWI/DUI
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.7 (69)
- 5.0 (40)
- Yelp
- 5.0 (1)
Why choose this provider?
Stephen D. Hebert LLC is a New Orleans-based firm providing criminal defense services. It works for clients accused of drug offenses, theft, property crimes, and white-collar crimes. The firm also assists clients accused violent crimes and handles charges at both the misdemeanor and felony level. Its attorneys protect the rights of their clients from abuse within the legal system and work to have charges dropped or sentences diminished to help clients achieve the best possible outcome.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Stephen Hebert - Principal | Active | 22 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Palazzo Law Firm caters to clients in New Orleans and the surrounding communities. It provides legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges, such as DWI/DUI, assault, theft, homicide, rape, and traffic violation. Its team also represents clients in personal injury cases involving truck and motorcycle accidents, car wrecks, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. Founder Leo J. Palazzo is a native New Orleanian who has practiced law since 1993. He is a member of the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Leo Palazzo - Founder | Active | 31 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Mark A. Vicknair, Attorney at Law, serves clients in the New Orleans metro. He takes on criminal defense cases and provides legal representation for individuals who are facing drug possession and murder charges. He also handles personal injury cases and helps victims of negligence receive maximum compensation for the medical bills, lost wages, and injuries suffered. Vicknair has been in the legal field for two decades and is a member of the Louisiana Association for Justice.
- Drug Crimes
- DWI/DUI
Why choose this provider?
Crouch Law, LLC Attorneys at Law represents people charged with felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic-related offenses in New Orleans. The firm’s lawyer, Katherine Z. Crouch, handles post-conviction relief cases, including appeals, motions for new trials, and pardon and parole hearings. While in law school, she worked as a law clerk at the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office. She pursued a career in criminal defense after two of her family members were incarcerated. Crouch utilizes her personal experience to help accused clients receive fair treatment under the law.
- DWI/DUI
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Katherine Crouch - Founder | Active | 11 yrs |
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 5.0 (6)
Why choose this provider?
The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox provides representation and advice to clients in New Orleans. It offers criminal defense services for individuals facing charges involving felonies and misdemeanors, such as public intoxication, drug possession, theft, assault, and DUI. The firm also takes on Families in Need of Services and Child in Need of Care cases. Ryan N. Cox, the principal attorney, is a Jefferson Parish Traffic Hearing Officer and a former prosecutor at the Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court. He has over 26 years of legal experience.
- DWI/DUI
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Crimes
Why choose this provider?
The Aubrey Harris Law Firm has been serving individuals in and around New Orleans since 2014. Aubrey Harris handles criminal cases involving murder, assault, drug possession, and DUI. She also protects the rights of juveniles accused of theft, shoplifting, and underage drinking. She draws from her experience as a former prosecutor in building a defense for criminal defendants. Harris, who has more than a decade of experience, holds an LLM in Public International Law with a focus on International Criminal Law.
- DWI/DUI
- Drug Crimes
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
Smith & Fawer LLC is a legal practice serving the residents of New Orleans and nearby areas. Its lawyers defend those indicted of white-collar or federal crimes. Among the clients they represent are public officials under investigation, businessmen facing charges, individuals and corporations charged with money laundering, and those accused of felonies. Michael S. Fawer, the firm's senior partner, has tried high-profile criminal suits and has argued over 25 cases at the appellate level. He belongs to the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
- DWI/DUI
- Arraignment
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
The Carbine Law Firm protects the rights of defendants in New Orleans and nearby metros. It handles different types of criminal cases and defends the rights of the accused. The legal practice takes on matters involving assault and battery, DUI or DWI, murder, domestic violence, and alcohol-related violations. It helps offenders collect evidence to reduce or drop mandatory penalties. Founder Chris H. Carbine is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the American Association for Justice.
- DWI/DUI
- Drug Crimes
Compare our Top Criminal Defense Attorneys
| Name | Expertise Rating | Address | Promotions | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloom Legal LLC | 825 Girod Street Suite A, New Orleans, LA70113 | View More | ||
| Orleans Legal LLC | 935 Gravier St Ste 840, New Orleans, LA70112 | View More | ||
| Mordock Legal | 5500 Prytania Street, Box 635, New Orleans, LA70115 | View More | ||
| DiGiulio Utley, LLC | K&B Plaza 1055 St. Charles Ave., Suite 208, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Forrest, Cressy & James Attorneys at Law | 1222 Annunciation Street, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Gary Bizal Attorney at Law | 4907 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA70115 | View More | ||
| Law Office of Eugene P Redmann | 2632 Athania Pkwy, Metairie, LA70002 | View More | ||
| The Handy Law Firm, LLC | 631 St. Charles Ave., Ste. 3-C, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys | 3621 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA70002 | View More | ||
| Martzell, Bickford & Centola | 338 Lafayette Street, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Law Office of Stephen J. Haedicke | 1040 Saint Ferdinand St, New Orleans, LA70117 | View More | ||
| Stephen D. Hébert, LLC | 700 Camp St # 216, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Palazzo Law Firm | 732 Behrman Hwy., Suite F, Gretna, LA70056 | View More | ||
| Mark A. Vicknair Attorney at Law | 700 Camp St, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Crouch Law, LLC Attorneys at Law | 2372 St. Claude Avenue, Suite 224, New Orleans, LA70117 | View More | ||
| The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox | 504 Huey P Long Ave, Gretna, LA70053 | View More | ||
| The Aubrey Harris Law Firm | 643 Magazine Street, Suite 200B, New Orleans, LA70130 | View More | ||
| Smith & Fawer LLC | 201 St. Charles Ave. #3702, New Orleans, LA70170 | View More | ||
| Carbine Law Firm | 711 2nd St, Gretna, LA70053 | View More |
FAQs
What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in New Orleans, Louisiana?
504-821-2222 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in New Orleans.
Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in New Orleans, Louisiana?
Through the public records request portal, you have the option to request a police report or any other public record documents. This allows you to directly communicate with your city government and request any necessary public documents.
Public records request portal: https://nola.nextrequest.com/
What are your rights if you are arrested in New Orleans?
If you are arrested in New Orleans, you have the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination. You must also be informed that any statements you make may be used against you in court. It is critical to request an attorney and refrain from speaking with police until they arrive.
Why do you require the services of a criminal defense attorney in New Orleans?
A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and protect your rights. Criminal defense attorneys have expert knowledge of the criminal laws and procedures of the jurisdictions in which they practice, they are skilled negotiators, they frequently have good working relationships with prosecutors and court personnel, they have easier access to resources that are often out of reach for the average person, and they speak and act on your behalf, preventing you from making mistakes that could harm your case.
Is it simple to file for expungement on your own in New Orleans?
No. In spite of the fact that lawmakers intended to make the process simpler, the forms that must be submitted in order to apply for an expungement are lengthy and can be confusing for first-time applicants. In order to successfully apply for expungement in New Orleans, it is highly recommended to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Can law enforcement officials use force during an arrest in New Orleans?
In New Orleans, police officers are permitted to use force when making an arrest, but the force must be reasonable and lawful. Handcuffing a suspect after arrest is one example. However, if an officer uses excessive force that is not required for the arrest, he or she may be held liable for any injuries or harm caused to the suspect.
Will you remain in custody while the criminal defense case in New Orleans is pending?
Yes. Unless a bond is posted or the individual is released due to jail overcrowding, he or she may have to remain in New Orleans custody. In cases where an arrest has been made or charges have been filed, it is crucial to attempt to secure the release of detained individuals. Being charged with a crime can be difficult enough without also being incarcerated. The remainder of the case may proceed more smoothly if the defendant is no longer in custody.
What does a criminal defense lawyer do?
Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circ*mstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.
How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?
Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:
Misdemeanors
- Petty theft
- Public intoxication
- Simple assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Vandalism
- Reckless driving
Felonies
- Murder
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated assault
- Specific types of fraud
- Possession of certain types of drugs
What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?
The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circ*mstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.
What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?
All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.
Why hire a criminal defense attorney?
Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circ*mstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.
Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?
Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circ*mstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.
Related Articles
Featured
What Happens When Evidence Is Obtained Illegally?
This article explains illegally obtained evidence, its impact on trials, and what criminal defense attorneys can do to defend...
You might also like...
The Four Major Criminal Defenses
Steps in the Criminal Trial Process
What is the Romeo and Juliet Law? [2024]
What’s the Difference Between a Civil Trial and a Criminal Trial?
Crimes Against Animals
Crimes Against Property
What to Expect at Arraignment
What Your Lawyer Wants You to Know About Plea Bargains
Crimes Against People
Your Rights When Interacting With Law Enforcement
Can I Represent Myself in a Criminal Trial?
What Happens if Police Violate Miranda Rights?
Can I Get My Criminal Records Expunged?
Criminal Trial Timelines and Outcomes: What to Expect [2024]
What Is the Standard of Proof in Criminal Cases?
Bail 101: Getting Out of Law Enforcement Custody
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost? [2024]
Crimes Involving Substances
What Happens at Pre-Trial Hearings?
Search and Seizure Law: Everything Your Lawyer Wants You To Know
Search Warrants: Everything Your Lawyer Wants You To Know
Find top Criminal Defense Attorneys nearby
- Metairie, LA
- Kenner, LA
- Gulfport, MS
- Baton Rouge, LA
Other top picks in your area
- Family Lawyer in New Orleans, LA
- Slip And Fall Lawyer in New Orleans, LA
- Disability Attorney in New Orleans, LA
- Personal Injury Attorneys in New Orleans, LA
