If you’ve ever heard the words, “you have a right to remain silent,” you already know how scary it can be to find yourself inside the criminal justice system. Whether you have been arrested for the first time and don’t know what happens next, or you have a prior criminal history that could lead to more severe consequences if you’re convicted this time, it’s not a position anyone likes to be in. But having a good criminal defense lawyer who is on your side can make all the difference.
If you’ve been charged with a crime – or may be facing charges after an investigation – it’s time to talk to a criminal defense attorney. Contact our firm today to find out what services we offer and how we can help you prepare a defense for your case.
What Kinds of Cases Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Work On?
Criminal defense attorneys work in the criminal court system and take on cases that involve individuals being charged with offenses under criminal law. A criminal defense attorney could take cases ranging from theft and fraud to murder or organized crime. Many criminal defense attorneys have specific areas of interest and experience, so it’s a good idea to talk to anyone you are considering about what kinds of cases they usually work on. Below are some common criminal charges:
- DUI
- Drug offenses
- Violent crimes, such as assault
- Property crimes, such as theft or trespassing
- Fraud
Can’t I Just Represent Myself?
Some people wonder if they can forgo having an attorney altogether and just represent themselves. This may be an enticing option if you are planning on pleading guilty or no contest or if you think the charges are relatively minor. However, this practice can carry a lot of risks, and it’s not a good idea to gamble with your future.
When you’re facing the criminal justice system and penalties that could range from jail time and fines to a permanent felony conviction on your record, it’s important to have knowledgeable representation. An attorney has the experience necessary to ensure that all of the procedures were followed in your case and that the charges and evidence are legitimate. If you try to represent yourself, you could end up missing key things that could have helped your case.
How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Me?
The criminal justice system can be a cruel conveyor belt, and once you’re on it, it can be difficult to get off. A criminal defense attorney ensures that there is someone who is focused solely on your interests and rights. It’s important to note that while the criminal courts are supposed to be fair and impartial, this doesn’t mean that everyone is on your side.
The prosecutors will try to use all of the tools and experience they have at their disposal to secure a conviction and the penalties that go with it. A criminal defense attorney helps even the playing field by ensuring someone is evaluating the case and the steps forward through the lens of what is in your best interests.
How Do I Find an Experienced Criminal Defense Firm?
While it’s possible to just look for a criminal defense firm online or in the yellow pages, there’s no way of knowing which firms are the most experienced or the right option for your particular case. Instead, it’s better to talk with friends or family members and ask for referrals. If you have a standing relationship with another type of attorney, such as a family lawyer, they may also be able to refer you to a colleague that practices criminal law.
When you’re meeting with potential defense attorneys, it’s important to ask questions about their education, experience, the types of cases they usually work on, and their conviction and acquittal rates. You may also want to ask how many of their cases go to trial versus how many are pled down.
Or you can call the Salt Lake City office of Benjamin Durham Law Firm at 385-342-4300 to set up a consultation with a member of our legal team. We can go over the details of your case and let you know how we can help. You don’t have to face the criminal justice system alone, and we are here to guide you through every step of the process.
Dedicated to Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Representation
Practice areas focuses on safeguarding individuals who suffer harm due to the actions or negligence of another party. These claims address injuries whether physical, mental, or occasionally involving property damage experienced by the affected individual.
Criminal Defense
Drug Crimes
Our experienced criminal defense team at Durham Law Firm defends individuals facing drug-related charges. We diligently analyze evidence, challenge procedures, and protect your rights to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
DUI
Our skilled team at Durham Law Firm provides aggressive DUI defense. We challenge breathalyzer results, question police procedures, and protect your rights, striving to minimize penalties and protect your driving privileges.
Record Sealing
Durham Law Firm assists clients in clearing their criminal records through record sealing. We guide you through the legal process, helping you move forward with a clean slate for a brighter future.
Domestic Violence
At Durham Law Firm, our committed attorneys offer support and legal representation to individuals facing domestic violence charges. We provide legal defense, ensure your rights are protected, and work diligently to secure a fair legal process on your behalf.
Assault
When facing assault charges, rely on Durham Law Firm’s experienced defense team. We meticulously examine evidence, challenge allegations, and protect your rights, working towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Theft
Durham Law Firm defends individuals facing theft charges. Our legal team examines the evidence, explores potential defenses, and works to minimize penalties or have charges dismissed, ensuring a fair legal process.
Traffic Law
Navigating traffic violations can be complex. Our attorneys at Durham Law Firm provide guidance, helping you with traffic tickets, license issues, and other traffic-related legal matters.
Felony
In felony cases, Durham Law Firm’s experienced defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights. We craft robust defense strategies, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.
Misdemeanor
Durham Law Firm defends clients facing misdemeanor charges. Our legal team offers quality guidance, thorough case analysis, and advocacy to minimize the impact of charges on your record and life.
Personal Injury
Car Accidents
After a car accident, trust Durham Law Firm to fight for your rights. We seek compensation for injuries, property damage, and other losses by providing dedicated legal representation.
Truck Accidents
Durham Law Firm’s experienced attorneys handle complex truck accident cases. We investigate thoroughly, negotiate with insurers, and litigate, if necessary, to secure just compensation for victims of truck accidents.
Motorcycle Accidents
Durham Law Firm advocates for motorcycle accident victims. Our skilled attorneys pursue compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and other losses, providing comprehensive legal support for riders.
Pedestrian Accidents
Durham Law Firm is here for pedestrian accident victims. We’re dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve for injuries, medical bills, and hardships stemming from your accident.
Bicycle Accidents
At Durham Law Firm, we’re committed to protecting the rights of bicyclists involved in accidents. We fight for compensation to cover medical costs, property damage, and the impact on your life.
Bus Accidents
Injured in a bus accident? Durham Law Firm fights to ensure bus accident victims receive fair compensation for their losses and to hold the at-fault party accountable.
Head-On Collision
In head-on collision cases, Durham Law Firm provides experienced legal representation. We investigate, negotiate, and litigate to secure compensation for your injuries and damages.
Hit & Run
When you’re a victim of a hit-and-run, Durham Law Firm is on your side. We pursue justice and compensation, working tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Rear End Collision
Durham Law Firm also handles rear-end collision cases. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, ensuring you receive rightful compensation for injuries and damages caused by negligent drivers.
Distracted Driving Accidents
If you’ve suffered due to distracted driving, Durham Law Firm is your advocate. We’re dedicated to pursuing compensation for injuries and losses resulting from distracted driver negligence.
Testimonials
What our clients Say
Client satisfaction fuels our passion and purpose. We are dedicated to exceeding expectations, ensuring that each person who entrusts us with their legal matters walks away in a better state than before.
Highly recommend this office. They took care of my case from start to finish and I couldn’t be any more grateful having their service. Awesome customer service and professionalism. The whole team is amazing and i would like a shoutout especially to Raquel and Daniel who helped me with my case every step of the way. I wasn’t only treated a very special client but also like a family— protected, safe and secured. Wouldn’t go anywhere else for legal services. This is the place!!! Thank you Atty Durham and to your top notch team! My family and I are clients for life! God bless!
Danielle Petkovich is my first choice for a criminal defense attorney. She is smart, extremely capable, and friendly. She is great at keeping you informed on your case, the process, and what to expect. She makes you feel at ease, and you know you’re in good hands!! The other attorneys in the office have similar qualities and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with any one of them in Danielle’s absence.
Highly recommend Ben! He helped me to get my felonies dropped down to misdemeanors and was very easy to communicate with. Most attorneys are in it for the money and don’t make you feel like they care but that was the opposite with Ben. He is very thoughtful and even checked up on me after I had my baby. He doesn’t judge you no matter how bad things may appear to be. He is very understanding and a man of his word. Made it so simple and easy all I had to do was show up to court and the rest was handled!
Danielle Petkovich is my first choice for a criminal defense attorney. She is smart, extremely capable, and friendly. She is great at keeping you informed on your case, the process, and what to expect. She makes you feel at ease and you know you’re in good hands!! The other attorneys in the office have similar qualities and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with any one of them in Danielle’s absence.
Get to Know Our
Client-Focused Legal Team
Meet the backbone of Benjamin Durham Law Firm. Committed to providing the highest level of service, our team combines a wealth of knowledge, skill, and dedication to ensure that our clients receive the best possible legal representation.
Benjamin Durham
Ben Bateman
Easton Durham
Marilu Martinez
Kesia Haag
Experience Matters
An experienced lawyer with a strong track record of success may actually be your most affordable option. With over 20 years of practicing law, we understand every detail of this complex system.
