Best Criminal Defense in Harrisonburg, Virginia

    Areas served: Harrisonburg, VA and surrounding Rockingham County

    19 local businessesRanked by Lantern Score — a measure of reputation and business quality. We don't accept payment for placement.
    Updated April 8, 2026

    Harrisonburg's criminal defense landscape includes attorneys practicing in Rockingham County Circuit Court and the local General District Court. The legal community here handles cases ranging from misdemeanor traffic violations to serious felonies, with several practitioners maintaining experience in both state and federal proceedings. Local defense attorneys regularly appear before judges in the 26th Judicial Circuit and work with the Commonwealth's Attorney's office on case resolutions.

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    92
    Lantern
    Score
    Charlottesville, VA · 35 mi from Harrisonburg · Est. 1979
    Serves Charlottesville, Virginia and Central Virginia
    ★★★★★4.8(192 Google reviews)

    The Goodman Law Firm is a criminal defense practice in Charlottesville with over 45 years of experience defending clients throughout Central Virginia. Founded by Scott Goodman, a former prosecutor with decades of trial experience, the firm now includes his son Alex Goodman, also a former prosecutor. They handle a comprehensive range of criminal matters including felonies, misdemeanors, DUI/traffic offenses, juvenile and domestic criminal cases, protective orders, gun rights restorations, appeals, expungements, probation violations, and animal seizure cases.

    Scott Goodman, Founding Attorney, 45+ years criminal law experience, former prosecutor, 200+ jury trials, taught criminal law at State Police Academy
    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesJuvenile CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing criminal charges in Virginia state and local courts, DUI defendants, those seeking record expungement, gun rights restoration seekers
    What sets them apart
    • Both Scott and Alex Goodman served as prosecutors before joining the defense practice, giving them unique insight into prosecution strategy and courtroom dynamics.
    • Scott Goodman has tried thousands of cases including nearly 200 jury trials over his 40+ year career in criminal law.
    • The firm handles criminal matters at every stage of the process—from initial charges through appeals, expungements, and specialized cases like gun rights restorations and animal seizure defense.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseFelony DefenseFormer ProsecutorsAppeals & Expungements

    Scott Goodman is an excellent attorney. She is very knowledgeable in criminal law. She looks after you and your best interest. I am very pleased with her. She delivered great results for me. I highly recommend her.

    Dylan Jude, Google Review · 4.8 ★ avg from 192 reviews
    Phone(434) 962-3000
    Hours
    MonOpen 24 hours
    TueOpen 24 hours
    WedOpen 24 hours
    ThuOpen 24 hours
    FriOpen 24 hours
    SatOpen 24 hours
    SunOpen 24 hours
    The Goodman Law Firm
    Updated 4/5/26Learn More →
    88
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    Charlottesville, VA · 35 mi from Harrisonburg
    Serves Charlottesville, VA and surrounding Greene, Louisa, and Fluvanna counties
    ★★★★★4.9(59 Google reviews)

    Bryan J. Jones, LLC is a criminal defense and post-conviction law firm in Charlottesville, VA, led by Attorney Bryan Jones. The firm specializes in DUI defense, drug crimes, sex offenses, protective order violations, and post-conviction relief including appeals and habeas corpus petitions. Known for collaborative case preparation, attention to detail, and fair fees, Attorney Jones serves clients throughout Charlottesville and surrounding Greene, Louisa, and Fluvanna counties with a singular focus on criminal defense.

    Bryan J. Jones, Attorney at Law
    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing criminal charges in Charlottesville and Central Virginia who need dedicated defense, clients seeking DUI charge dismissal or reduction, those accused of drug crimes or sex offenses requiring strategic advocacy, people who believe they received an unfair trial and need post-conviction relief, defendants who value transparent pricing and personalized attention from their attorney
    What sets them apart
    • Unlike general practice firms, Bryan J. Jones, LLC exclusively handles criminal defense and post-conviction matters, ensuring deep expertise in Virginia criminal law and courtroom strategy.
    • The firm's team of attorneys works together on each case, providing multiple perspectives and thorough review to ensure no detail is missed in building your defense.
    • Beyond trial defense, the firm handles appeals, habeas corpus petitions, and pardons for clients seeking to overturn unfair convictions — a specialized area many criminal defense attorneys don't pursue.
    • The firm is committed to reasonable rates and transparent pricing, ensuring that effective legal representation is accessible to clients facing criminal charges without breaking the bank.
    Criminal DefenseDUIPost-Conviction AppealsDrug Crimes
    Phone(434) 260-7899
    Bryan J. Jones, LLC
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    83
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    Charlottesville, VA · 35 mi from Harrisonburg
    Serves Charlottesville, VA and surrounding areas
    ★★★★★4.9(134 Google reviews)

    Thomas M Wilson Attorney at Law is a criminal defense firm serving Charlottesville and surrounding areas with focused expertise in DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, and misdemeanor defense. Thomas M Wilson provides personalized legal representation for clients facing criminal charges, offering thorough case evaluation and strategic defense strategies. The firm emphasizes clear communication and aggressive advocacy to protect clients' rights throughout the criminal justice process.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug Charges
    Ideal clients: DUI defendants, individuals charged with drug offenses, first-time misdemeanor offenders, Charlottesville-area residents needing aggressive criminal defense
    What sets them apart
    • Specializes in DUI/DWI and drug charge defense with strategic case evaluation to identify the strongest possible defense for each client's unique situation.
    • Clients work directly with Thomas M Wilson rather than junior associates, ensuring experienced counsel from initial consultation through case resolution.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesMisdemeanor DefenseCharlottesville
    Phone(434) 979-0308
    Thomas M Wilson Attorney at Law
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
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    Charlottesville, VA · 35 mi from Harrisonburg
    Serves Charlottesville, Richmond, and throughout Virginia
    ★★★★★4.9(132 Google reviews)

    La Fratta Law is a criminal defense firm led by Michael La Fratta, a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over a decade of experience handling tough cases across Virginia. The firm specializes in DUI defense, expungements, traffic violations, protective orders, reckless driving, and other criminal charges. With offices in Charlottesville and Richmond, La Fratta takes a proactive courtroom approach and offers free confidential consultations to clients facing criminal charges.

    Best for: DUI/DWI Cases
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, traffic violations, or criminal charges in Virginia; people seeking expungements or record clearing
    What sets them apart
    • Over a decade of winning tough criminal cases with a proactive courtroom approach and willingness to take on challenging defenses.
    • Handles DUI defense, expungements, traffic violations, protective orders, reckless driving, and other criminal matters across Virginia counties.
    • Offers free initial consultations to discuss your case and explore defense options with no obligation.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseTraffic ViolationsExpungementsCentral Virginia
    Phone(434) 448-3149
    La Fratta Law
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    81
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    Score
    Charlottesville, VA · 34 mi from Harrisonburg
    Serves Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and Central Virginia including Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Nelson, Orange counties, and Waynesboro
    ★★★★★5.0(23 Google reviews)

    Edmund Michie is a solo criminal, traffic, DUI, workers' compensation, and personal injury attorney with 30+ years of experience serving Central Virginia. He handles everything from DUI/DWI cases and traffic violations to workers' compensation claims, auto accidents, and criminal defense—maintaining direct client contact throughout every case rather than delegating to staff. What sets Michie apart is his commitment to personal attention: he does all the legal work himself, meets clients at times and places convenient to them (often outside a traditional office), and charges reasonable fees with flexible payment arrangements.

    Ideal clients: Injured workers seeking workers' compensation claims, individuals facing DUI/DWI or traffic charges, people needing criminal defense, auto accident victims, those restoring driving privileges or expunging records
    What sets them apart
    • All case work is handled personally by Edmund Michie—a trial lawyer with 30+ years of experience. No paralegals or secretaries handle client files or communications, ensuring confidentiality and continuity.
    • Appointments are scheduled at times and places of the client's choosing, often outside a traditional office setting, reducing hassle and overhead costs passed to clients.
    • Workers' compensation and personal injury cases are typically handled on a contingent fee basis, and Michie works with clients on flexible payment arrangements for other legal matters.
    Criminal DefenseWorkers' CompensationPersonal InjuryDUI/DWITraffic Law
    Phone(434) 296-1198
    Ned Michie Law
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    78
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    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, VA and surrounding Rockingham County areas
    ★★★★★4.9(14 Google reviews)

    A. Gene Hart, Jr., P.C. is a family law firm in Harrisonburg, VA specializing in divorce, child custody, child support, and spousal support matters. Attorney Gene Hart brings personalized legal representation to clients navigating complex family law issues, with a focus on protecting clients' rights and interests during emotionally challenging situations.

    Ideal clients: Divorce clients, parents seeking child custody arrangements, individuals needing spousal or child support assistance
    What sets them apart
    • Gene Hart focuses exclusively on family law matters in the Harrisonburg area, providing deep knowledge of local courts and judges.
    • Offers direct attorney consultation and representation tailored to each client's specific family law situation and goals.
    Family LawDivorce AttorneyChild CustodyHarrisonburg VA
    Phone(540) 252-0032
    A. Gene Hart, Jr., P.C.
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    78
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Virginia and Shenandoah Valley
    ★★★★★4.6(68 Google reviews)

    Cook Attorneys is a locally-based legal firm serving Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley since 2000, specializing in criminal defense, traffic law, and immigration matters. Led by experienced attorneys Aaron L. Cook, Scott T. Hansen, and R. Shannon Kite, the firm handles everything from speeding tickets and reckless driving charges to serious criminal charges and immigration status adjustments. Located directly adjacent to the Rockingham County courthouses, Cook Attorneys focuses on helping clients understand their options and achieve the best possible outcome with minimal life impact.

    Best for: Felony Charges
    Ideal clients: People facing criminal charges, drivers with traffic violations, immigrants seeking status adjustment or citizenship
    What sets them apart
    • Located at 71 Court Square directly next to Rockingham County courthouses and one block from U.S. District Court, providing convenient access and deep local court system knowledge.
    • Beyond criminal defense, Cook Attorneys handles traffic defense and immigration law, offering comprehensive legal representation for diverse client needs.
    • Operating since 2000, the firm has established relationships with the local legal community and courthouses, understanding regional criminal justice procedures.
    Criminal DefenseTraffic LawImmigration LawLocal Harrisonburg
    Phone(540) 564-9699
    Cook Attorneys
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    77
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Virginia and surrounding areas
    ★★★★★4.6(48 Google reviews)

    Aaron Graves Law is a criminal defense firm based in Harrisonburg, Virginia, providing legal representation for individuals facing criminal charges. Attorney Aaron Graves handles a range of criminal matters including DUI/DWI, felonies, misdemeanors, and drug-related offenses. The firm offers personalized defense strategies and is committed to protecting clients' rights throughout the legal process.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing criminal charges in Virginia, DUI/DWI defendants, drug charge defendants, first-time offenders
    What sets them apart
    • Based in Harrisonburg with deep knowledge of local courts, judges, and prosecution practices in the Shenandoah Valley area.
    • Handles DUI/DWI cases, felony charges, misdemeanor offenses, and drug-related charges with comprehensive legal strategies.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseFelony DefenseDrug ChargesMisdemeanor Defense
    Phone(540) 801-8855
    Aaron Graves Law
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    76
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley
    ★★★★★5.0(8 Google reviews)

    Andrew Graves is a family law attorney at Graves Whetzel Law serving Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley. He handles divorce, custody, child support, spousal support, property division, and adoption matters for families navigating major life transitions. With deep roots in the local community, Graves provides personalized legal representation focused on protecting his clients' rights and interests.

    Ideal clients: Families going through divorce, parents seeking custody arrangements, individuals pursuing adoption, families navigating child and spousal support matters
    What sets them apart
    • Specializes exclusively in family law matters with established relationships in the local court system.
    • Practices with Graves Whetzel Law, a multi-attorney firm providing comprehensive legal support.
    Family LawDivorceCustodyAdoption
    Phone(540) 208-0865
    Andrew Graves
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    74
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Virginia and surrounding areas
    ★★★★★5.0(6 Google reviews)

    Litten & Sipe, LLP is a full-service law firm based in Harrisonburg with over 140 years of experience serving Virginia clients. Beyond family law, the firm offers comprehensive legal services including personal injury and wrongful death claims, estate planning and administration, real estate transactions, corporate and business law, civil litigation, local government law, education law, and election law. Their seasoned team is committed to building strong personal relationships with clients while leveraging decades of combined expertise across multiple practice areas.

    Ideal clients: Business owners needing corporate counsel, families planning estates, individuals pursuing personal injury claims, local government entities, and real estate developers
    What sets them apart
    • Operating since 1877, Litten & Sipe brings deep institutional knowledge and a long track record of serving Virginia clients across multiple legal disciplines.
    • The firm handles personal injury cases with documented six and seven-figure recoveries, estate planning, real estate development, business formation, and local government representation — enabling clients to work with one trusted firm for diverse legal needs.
    • The firm employs seasoned litigators with combined expertise in civil litigation, employment law, and commercial disputes, backed by the resources of an established practice.
    Family LawEstate PlanningCivil LitigationBusiness LawReal Estate
    Phone(540) 434-5353
    Litten & Sipe LLP
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    73
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    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, VA and Shenandoah Valley region
    ★★★★★4.5(17 Google reviews)

    GravesWhetzel Law PLLC is a family law firm in Harrisonburg specializing in divorce, child custody, child support, and related domestic matters. The firm provides personalized legal representation to help clients navigate complex family law issues with attention to both legal strategy and client concerns. They serve the Shenandoah Valley region and surrounding areas.

    Ideal clients: Harrisonburg-area residents seeking divorce representation, parents navigating custody disputes, individuals requiring child support guidance
    What sets them apart
    • Based in Harrisonburg with established presence serving the local community and understanding regional court systems.
    • Handles divorce, custody arrangements, support matters, and other domestic law issues under one firm.
    Family LawDivorce AttorneyChild CustodyHarrisonburg
    Phone(540) 432-3030
    GravesWhetzel Law PLLC
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    71
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, VA and Shenandoah Valley
    ★★★★☆4.4(13 Google reviews)

    Miller, Earle & Shanks, PLLC is a family law firm serving Harrisonburg and the surrounding Shenandoah Valley region. The firm handles divorce, custody, support matters, property division, and other family law issues with a focus on practical solutions and client advocacy. Their experienced attorneys work to protect clients' interests while navigating complex family transitions.

    Ideal clients: Divorcing couples, parents addressing custody and support issues, individuals navigating family transitions in the Shenandoah Valley
    What sets them apart
    • Dedicated family law practice with deep roots in the Harrisonburg community and familiarity with local courts and judges.
    • Handles all major family law matters including divorce, custody, child support, spousal support, and property division in one firm.
    Family LawDivorceCustodyHarrisonburg
    Phone(540) 564-1555
    Miller, Earle & Shanks, PLLC
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    71
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Virginia and Rockingham County
    ★★★★☆4.2(63 Google reviews)

    Evans Oliver, PLC is a Harrisonburg-based law firm led by attorneys Tracy J. Evans II and H. Eugene Oliver, III, specializing in criminal defense, family law, civil litigation, and personal injury matters. In family law specifically, they represent clients through the full spectrum of matters including divorce, child custody, child support, and adoption in Rockingham County. The firm is known for developing customized legal strategies focused on efficient, results-driven representation.

    Ideal clients: Families navigating divorce or custody disputes, parents seeking child support representation, couples pursuing adoption, JMU students facing legal matters
    What sets them apart
    • Beyond family law, Evans Oliver handles criminal defense, civil litigation, personal injury, and adult guardianship, allowing for comprehensive legal support across multiple practice areas.
    • The firm specifically serves James Madison University students, offering accessible legal representation for criminal defense and personal injury claims affecting the college community.
    • Eugene Oliver serves as President of the Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, demonstrating recognized expertise and standing in Virginia's legal profession.
    Family LawDivorce AttorneyChild CustodyAdoptionHarrisonburg
    Phone(540) 437-1966
    Evans Oliver PLC
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    70
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Richmond, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, and Short Pump, Virginia
    ★★★★☆4.1(99 Google reviews)

    Cravens & Noll PC is a full-service law firm with over 40 years of experience serving Harrisonburg and Richmond, Virginia. Beyond family law, they offer personal injury representation, bankruptcy, estate planning, and criminal defense. Their family law practice handles divorce, separation, custody disputes, and related matters, with attorneys including specialists like Lauren Tyler Cravens and Bethany Rishell focused on helping clients navigate difficult transitions. The firm is known for accessibility, offering evening and Saturday consultations and providing straightforward legal guidance without taking advantage of vulnerable clients.

    Ideal clients: Divorcing couples seeking affordable representation, custody dispute litigants, individuals needing multiple legal services, families planning estates
    What sets them apart
    • Over 30,000 Virginians have trusted Cravens & Noll across four decades, with voted recognition as one of The Best Law Firms and Best Attorneys in Richmond by Richmond Times-Dispatch.
    • Beyond family law, the firm handles personal injury, bankruptcy, estate planning, and criminal defense, making them a one-stop resource for multiple legal needs.
    • Evening and Saturday consultations available, with responsive service—clients report same-day contact and meetings scheduled within days of initial inquiry.
    Family LawDivorce AttorneysCustody DisputesMulti-Service Firm
    Phone(540) 246-0684
    Cravens & Noll PC
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    58
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    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    Serves Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, Staunton, and central Virginia
    ★★★☆☆3.4(13 Google reviews)

    Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver is a full-service law firm with roots dating back to 1845, serving the Shenandoah Valley and central Virginia from offices in Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, and Staunton. In family law, they handle divorce, child custody, adoption, collaborative divorce, mediation, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, protective orders, and support matters. Beyond family law, the firm offers comprehensive legal services including criminal defense, estate planning, business law, civil litigation, personal injury, employment law, and appellate practice.

    Ideal clients: Divorcing couples seeking mediation or collaborative solutions, parents navigating custody matters, families planning estates, individuals needing protective orders
    What sets them apart
    • Operating continuously since 1845, the firm brings deep legal experience and community roots to every case.
    • Handles the full spectrum of family law matters including divorce, custody, adoption, mediation, and protective orders with attorneys experienced in both litigation and collaborative approaches.
    • Three regional offices in Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, and Staunton provide convenient access for clients across the Shenandoah Valley.
    Family LawDivorceChild CustodyMediationEstate Planning
    Phone(540) 434-0316
    Websitewawlaw.com
    Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver, PLC
    Updated 4/6/26Learn More →
    57
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    Harrisonburg, VA
    ★★★★★5.0(3 Google reviews)
    Phone(540) 432-3030
    Derrick W. Whetzel
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    55
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    Harrisonburg, VA
    ★★★★★5.0(2 Google reviews)
    Phone(540) 534-0643
    Graves Law Offices
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    53
    Lantern
    Score
    Harrisonburg, VA
    ★★★★☆4.0(8 Google reviews)
    Phone(540) 858-5464
    Ryan King Legal
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →
    31
    Lantern
    Score
    Ashburn, VA · 86 mi from Harrisonburg
    ★☆☆☆☆1.0(3 Google reviews)
    Phone(703) 726-9500
    Ceresa Law Firm
    Updated 4/8/26Learn More →

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is the top-ranked criminal defense attorney in Harrisonburg, VA?

    The Goodman Law Firm is the top-ranked criminal defense provider in the area with a Lantern Score of 92.32/100 and a 4.8★ rating from 192 reviews. While based in Charlottesville, they defend clients throughout Central Virginia and specialize in DUI cases, record expungement, and gun rights restoration.

    Which criminal defense attorneys in Harrisonburg are open on weekends?

    The Goodman Law Firm is available on weekends, with hours from 12:00 AM–11:59 PM on both Saturday and Sunday. They are the only provider among the 19 listed criminal defense attorneys in the Harrisonburg area with documented weekend availability.

    Who should I contact for DUI defense in Harrisonburg?

    Cook Attorneys (Lantern Score 77.58/100, 4.6★) and Aaron Graves Law (Lantern Score 77.08/100, 4.6★) both specialize in DUI/DWI defense locally in Harrisonburg. For a broader geographic option, Bryan J. Jones, LLC (Lantern Score 87.64/100, 4.9★) in Charlottesville specializes specifically in DUI charge dismissal and reduction.

    Which criminal defense attorneys handle drug charges in the Harrisonburg area?

    Aaron Graves Law (Lantern Score 77.08/100, 4.6★) and Cook Attorneys (Lantern Score 77.58/100, 4.6★) both serve Harrisonburg and handle drug charge defendants. Bryan J. Jones, LLC (Lantern Score 87.64/100, 4.9★) in Charlottesville also specializes in drug crime defense across Central Virginia.

    Who is best for first-time criminal offenders in Harrisonburg?

    Aaron Graves Law (Lantern Score 77.08/100, 4.6★) specifically serves first-time offenders facing criminal charges in Virginia. Thomas M Wilson Attorney at Law (Lantern Score 83.27/100, 4.9★) also specializes in first-time misdemeanor offenders in the Charlottesville area.

    Are there local criminal defense attorneys in Harrisonburg, or do I need to go to Charlottesville?

    Several criminal defense attorneys are based directly in Harrisonburg, including Cook Attorneys (Lantern Score 77.58/100), Aaron Graves Law (Lantern Score 77.08/100), and Evans Oliver PLC (Lantern Score 71.00/100). However, top-ranked options like The Goodman Law Firm (Lantern Score 92.32/100) in Charlottesville also serve the broader Central Virginia region including Harrisonburg.

    This directory of criminal defense local businesses serving Harrisonburg, VA is maintained by Lantern. Rankings are determined by the Lantern Score — not advertising or payment for placement. Learn how it works. Last updated April 8, 2026. To claim or update a listing, contact us.