Criminal Defense costs, by state and province

Typical costs for criminal defense per case. Complexity and severity of charges drive cost. Open a market below for a local estimate.

Criminal defense lawyer fees vary by charge severity, attorney experience, and location. Misdemeanor defense typically costs $1,500 to $5,000 flat fee, while felony representation ranges from $5,000 to $20,000 or more. Public defenders are free but limited to those who qualify financially.

Fee Structures: Flat Fee vs Hourly

Many criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee for standard cases—$2,000 to $4,000 for a DUI or simple assault. Hourly rates range from $150 to $500, with more experienced lawyers at the higher end. Flat fees often include all court appearances, but additional motions may cost extra.

Factors That Influence Attorney Costs

Case complexity, such as multiple charges or federal involvement, can double or triple fees. An attorney's track record and reputation also affect price. For a first-time misdemeanor, expect $2,000 to $3,500, while a serious felony might exceed $15,000.

Public Defender vs Private Attorney

Public defenders are free for defendants who meet low-income guidelines, but caseloads can limit one-on-one attention. Private attorneys typically cost $2,000 to $10,000 for misdemeanors and $10,000 to $50,000 for serious felonies, giving you more control over the defense strategy.

Typical Criminal Defense prices
ItemTypical range
Misdemeanor Defense (Flat Fee)$1,500 - $5,000
Felony Defense (Flat Fee)$5,000 - $20,000
Hourly Rate (Private Attorney)$150 - $500
Public Defender (Qualified)$0

Every market for criminal defense costs

383 markets have a page, each with a typical range where we have one and plain guidance on what moves the price.

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