Best Criminal Defense in Tacoma, Washington

    Areas served: Tacoma, WA and surrounding Pierce County

    14 local businessesRanked by Lantern Score — a measure of reputation and business quality. We don't accept payment for placement.
    Updated April 16, 2026

    Tacoma's criminal defense landscape includes attorneys practicing across Pierce County Superior Court, Tacoma Municipal Court, and federal courts in the Western District of Washington. Local practitioners handle cases ranging from DUI and domestic violence charges to serious felonies, with many maintaining offices near the Pierce County Courthouse on Tacoma Avenue. This directory provides detailed comparisons of criminal defense attorneys serving Tacoma, evaluated on factors including trial experience, case specialization, fee structures, and track records in local courts.

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    86
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Washington State
    ★★★★★5.0(1662 Google reviews)

    Kertchen Law is Washington's premier firearms rights restoration firm, specializing in helping clients regain gun ownership rights after felony convictions, domestic violence convictions, and background check denials. Attorney Vitaliy Kertchen handles all legal paperwork and court proceedings, requiring no client court appearances, with a typical process taking a few months. The firm serves clients statewide seeking to restore concealed pistol licenses, pass background checks, and legally own firearms again.

    Best for: Felony Charges
    Ideal clients: Felons seeking firearm rights restoration, Domestic violence conviction holders, Background check denial applicants, Concealed carry permit seekers
    What sets them apart
    • Attorney Vitaliy Kertchen handles all paperwork and court proceedings on your behalf, allowing clients to avoid taking time off work.
    • Focused exclusively on Washington state gun rights restoration, serving clients with felony convictions, domestic violence convictions, and background check denials.
    • Clear, affordable flat fees for all services with payment plans and multiple payment options available (credit, debit, cash, money order).
    Gun RightsFirearms LawyerRights RestorationCriminal DefenseConcealed Carry
    Phone(253) 905-8415
    Kertchen Law
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    86
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, Pierce County, and surrounding areas including Gig Harbor, Kitsap County, King County, Puyallup, Lakewood, Fife, Port Orchard, Sumner, and University Place
    ★★★★★5.0(647 Google reviews)

    Scott Moriarity is a Tacoma-based criminal defense attorney specializing in traffic offenses, driving infractions, and DUI/DWI cases throughout Washington State. With deep expertise in traffic infraction law, Scott provides aggressive defense for clients facing tickets, arrests, and driving-related charges. He offers free consultations and prioritizes a client-focused approach, understanding the stress and consequences of traffic and criminal charges.

    Best for: DUI/DWI Cases
    Ideal clients: Drivers facing traffic tickets, DUI/DWI charges, and driving infractions in Washington State; Anyone arrested or charged with traffic-related offenses
    What sets them apart
    • Scott Moriarity specializes exclusively in traffic offenses and driving-related charges, not general practice. He emphasizes deep knowledge of Washington traffic infraction law specifically.
    • All clients receive a free initial consultation to discuss their case before committing to representation.
    • Scott recognizes the stress of facing charges and takes an aggressive, personalized defense strategy for each client.
    Traffic AttorneyCriminal DefenseDUI DefenseTacoma LawyerFree Consultation
    Phone(253) 830-5848
    Law Office of Scott Moriarity
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    85
    Lantern
    Score
    Kent, WA · 14 mi from Tacoma
    Serves Kent, WA and surrounding Pierce County communities
    ★★★★★5.0(317 Google reviews)

    Attorney Vinny Randhawa provides comprehensive criminal defense representation in Kent and the surrounding area, specializing in DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, felony and misdemeanor defense, and juvenile defense. With extensive courtroom experience and a focus on protecting clients' rights, Randhawa offers personalized legal strategies tailored to each case's unique circumstances. His practice is known for thorough case preparation and dedicated client advocacy.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesJuvenile CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, people charged with felonies or misdemeanors, parents seeking defense for juvenile offenders, those accused of drug-related crimes
    What sets them apart
    • Focuses heavily on DUI and DWI defense with deep knowledge of breath test procedures, field sobriety tests, and challenging prosecution evidence.
    • Provides dedicated representation for minors facing criminal charges, understanding the unique legal protections and rehabilitation-focused approaches available in juvenile court.
    • Handles drug-related charges from possession to distribution, with experience challenging search and seizure issues and negotiating favorable outcomes.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesFelony DefenseKent Attorney
    Phone(425) 228-2202
    Attorney At Law Vinny Randhawa
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, WA and Pierce County
    ★★★★★4.9(340 Google reviews)

    South Sound Law Group is a veteran-owned, family-run law firm in Tacoma with over 40 years of experience, founded by William A. White and now managed by his children. They specialize in criminal defense (including DUI, assault, domestic violence, and gun rights restoration), traffic tickets, personal injury cases (auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, pedestrian and bicycle accidents), and expungement services. The firm is known for taking a relationship-focused approach, offering flexible payment options, free consultations, and trial-ready attorneys who are deeply familiar with local Pierce County courts and procedures.

    Best for: DUI/DWI Cases
    Ideal clients: Criminal defendants (DUI, assault, domestic violence), traffic ticket defense, personal injury victims, veterans seeking legal services, individuals seeking expungement
    What sets them apart
    • Founded by William A. White nearly 40 years ago, now run by his children as managing attorneys. The firm's literal family reputation drives their commitment to client outcomes and personalized service.
    • The firm emphasizes experienced trial lawyers who actually go to trial and are not afraid to fight for clients, rather than simply negotiating settlements.
    • Offers free initial consultations, flexible payment arrangements to fit client budgets, and extended availability including after-hours appointments to accommodate working clients.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefensePersonal InjuryFamily-OwnedTrial Lawyers
    Phone(253) 465-2722
    South Sound Law Group
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, WA and surrounding Pierce County areas
    ★★★★★4.9(309 Google reviews)

    Pacific Point Defense is a criminal defense law firm in Tacoma specializing in DUI, felony, misdemeanor, and drug charge defense. Led by experienced criminal defense attorneys, the firm provides aggressive representation for clients facing criminal charges in Washington State. They offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to help clients protect their rights.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, Drug charges, Felony charges, Misdemeanor charges
    What sets them apart
    • Available around the clock to handle arrests and urgent criminal matters.
    • Offer no-cost initial consultations to discuss your case and legal options.
    • Focus exclusively on criminal defense including DUI, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug Charges24/7 AvailableFree Consultation
    Phone(253) 620-0033
    Pacific Point Defense
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, WA and Pierce County
    ★★★★★4.9(86 Google reviews)

    The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart provides aggressive criminal defense representation in Tacoma and surrounding Pierce County communities. Michael Austin Stewart handles DUI/DWI cases, felony charges, misdemeanor offenses, and drug-related charges with a focus on protecting clients' rights and achieving the best possible outcomes. The firm offers free consultations and is committed to providing accessible, responsive legal defense for individuals facing criminal charges.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, those charged with felonies or misdemeanors, people accused of drug-related crimes, anyone needing aggressive criminal defense representation
    What sets them apart
    • Offers free initial consultations so potential clients can discuss their case before deciding to retain representation.
    • Concentrates exclusively on criminal defense matters including DUI, felonies, misdemeanors, and drug charges rather than general practice.
    • Based in Tacoma with deep knowledge of local courts, judges, and prosecutorial practices in Pierce County.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseFelony DefenseTacoma Attorney
    Phone(253) 655-4496
    The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Pierce County, Washington, centered in Tacoma
    ★★★★★5.0(31 Google reviews)

    Law Offices of Martin Duenhoelter is a criminal defense and traffic law firm based in downtown Tacoma, serving Pierce County for over 25 years. Martin Duenhoelter specializes in traffic infractions, speeding tickets, DUI defense, and criminal charges (misdemeanor and felony). The firm is known for personal, old-school client service with direct attorney communication and a track record of achieving dismissals and favorable plea bargains.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Drivers with speeding tickets or traffic infractions, individuals facing DUI charges, people accused of misdemeanor or felony charges in Pierce County
    What sets them apart
    • Martin Duenhoelter has practiced law from the same brick-and-mortar office for over 25 years, located directly across from the Tacoma courthouse, providing deep local knowledge and established relationships.
    • One of the original attorneys to specialize in traffic infraction defense, with 25 years of experience defending speeding tickets and traffic violations.
    • Old-school approach prioritizing direct phone contact and personal relationships with clients rather than impersonal digital-only communication to ensure clarity and client peace of mind.
    Criminal DefenseTraffic TicketsDUI DefenseSpeeding TicketsPierce County
    Phone(253) 593-0766
    Law Offices of Martin Duenhoelter
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    81
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, Pierce County, and greater Washington State including Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Olympia, and Port Orchard
    ★★★★★4.9(40 Google reviews)

    Washington State Attorneys, PLLC is a full-service law firm based in Tacoma with locations across Washington State, offering comprehensive legal representation in criminal defense, DUI, divorce, family law, bankruptcy, traffic tickets, home foreclosure, and personal injury cases. The firm, connected to The Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, specializes in helping clients navigate emotionally complex family law matters including divorce, child custody disputes, and spousal maintenance while also providing aggressive defense for criminal charges and DUI cases. They offer free 15-minute phone consultations and operate 24/7 to serve clients throughout Pierce County and the greater Puget Sound region.

    Ideal clients: Individuals going through divorce or custody disputes, people facing criminal charges or DUI accusations, those dealing with bankruptcy or home foreclosure, traffic ticket defendants
    What sets them apart
    • Available 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your legal situation and understand your rights without initial cost.
    • Handles diverse practice areas from family law and divorce to criminal defense, DUI, bankruptcy, and personal injury in one firm.
    • Deep expertise in Washington State-specific laws including community property rules, no-fault divorce statutes, and child support calculations.
    Divorce AttorneyFamily LawCriminal DefenseDUI DefenseBankruptcy
    Washington State Attorneys, PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma and surrounding Pierce, King, Snohomish, Kitsap, and Thurston counties in Washington
    ★★★★★4.7(77 Google reviews)

    Beckwith Law is a criminal defense firm in Tacoma founded by attorney Cristine Beckwith, who has been practicing criminal law since 2004. The firm specializes exclusively in criminal defense, DUI, domestic violence, and juvenile law cases across Pierce, King, Snohomish, Kitsap, and Thurston counties. Cristine brings unique perspective as a former Deputy Prosecutor for Pierce County, allowing her to understand the legal system from both sides and develop defense strategies others may overlook. The firm offers free consultations, maintains excellent client communication throughout the legal process, and accepts reasonable flat fees with payment plans.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsJuvenile CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, domestic violence accusations, assault charges, juvenile defendants, and anyone arrested in Pierce County or surrounding areas needing aggressive criminal defense representation
    What sets them apart
    • Attorney Cristine Beckwith served as a Deputy Prosecutor for Pierce County before switching to criminal defense, giving her insider knowledge of prosecution strategies and court dynamics that informs her defense approach.
    • The firm works exclusively with criminal defense, DUI, domestic violence, and juvenile cases—no other practice areas—allowing deep expertise and strong relationships with judges and prosecutors across five counties.
    • Beckwith Law offers free consultations every day of the week including after-hours, and accepts reasonable flat fees with payment plans to make representation accessible.
    Criminal DefenseDUI AttorneyDomestic ViolenceJuvenile DefenseTacoma
    Phone(253) 238-8273
    Beckwith Law
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, Washington and Pierce County, including surrounding areas in King and Thurston counties
    ★★★★★5.0(15 Google reviews)

    Sebastian Miller is a criminal defense and traffic attorney in Tacoma with over 500 cases handled and a proven trial record including several jury acquittals. A former public defender who worked on both sides of the criminal justice system, he specializes in DUI defense, traffic tickets, speeding violations, reckless driving, and other traffic infractions across Pierce, King, and Thurston counties. Miller offers flat-fee pricing for most matters, free consultations for DUI cases, and handles the entire process online with no office visit required—most clients complete intake in under three minutes.

    Best for: DUI/DWI Cases
    Ideal clients: DUI defendants, traffic ticket recipients, reckless driving charges, speeding violations, people facing criminal charges in Pierce County
    What sets them apart
    • Sebastian Miller worked as both a public defender and for the State of Washington, giving him insider knowledge of how prosecutors think. He has multiple jury acquittals on his trial record and is not afraid to take cases to trial.
    • Most traffic matters are $149–$249 with transparent, upfront pricing. No hourly billing, no surprise invoices, and free consultations available for DUI charges.
    • Upload your ticket or citation in under three minutes—no office visit required. Miller handles court appearances and all paperwork on behalf of clients, with limited caseload ensuring personal attention.
    DUI DefenseTraffic TicketsCriminal DefenseTrial AttorneyFlat Fee Pricing
    Phone(253) 317-2295
    Defense Attorney Sebastian Miller
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    78
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, Washington and Pierce County
    ★★★★★4.8(23 Google reviews)

    The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten is a criminal defense firm located in Tacoma specializing in DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, and other criminal matters. Attorney Chris Van Vechten provides personalized legal representation for clients facing serious criminal charges, with a focus on protecting rights and achieving the best possible outcomes. The firm offers free consultations to discuss your case and legal options.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, drug-related criminal charges, misdemeanor or felony accusations
    What sets them apart
    • Focused expertise in driving under the influence cases with strategies tailored to Washington state law and local court procedures.
    • Offers no-cost case review to evaluate your situation and explain your legal options before making any commitment.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWI AttorneyDrug ChargesTacoma Lawyer
    Phone(253) 666-8987
    Law Office of Chris Van Vechten
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    76
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, Pierce County, and surrounding Washington communities
    ★★★★★4.7(18 Google reviews)

    The Law Office of Mark S. Treyz is a criminal defense firm in Tacoma specializing in DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, and other criminal matters. Mark Treyz provides aggressive defense representation for individuals facing serious criminal charges, with a focus on protecting clients' rights and achieving the best possible outcomes. The firm offers personalized legal strategy and is available to discuss your case.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI/DWI charges, People charged with drug offenses, Those needing aggressive criminal defense representation
    What sets them apart
    • Focused expertise in driving under the influence cases, a complex area of criminal law requiring specialized knowledge.
    • Represents clients facing drug-related charges with strategies designed to protect their rights and minimize consequences.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesTacoma Lawyer
    Phone(253) 272-8666
    Law Office of Mark S. Treyz
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    76
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, WA and surrounding Pierce County communities
    ★★★★★4.5(53 Google reviews)

    Law Office of Bryan G. Hershman, Esq. is a criminal defense firm in Tacoma specializing in DUI, felony, and misdemeanor cases. Bryan Hershman provides aggressive legal representation for clients facing criminal charges, offering free consultations and accessible legal guidance to help navigate the criminal justice system.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: People facing DUI charges, individuals charged with felonies or misdemeanors, those needing aggressive criminal defense representation
    What sets them apart
    • Offers free initial consultations to evaluate your case and explain your legal options without financial commitment.
    • Focuses specifically on DUI, felony, and misdemeanor defense with deep experience in criminal court proceedings.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseFelony DefenseTacoma Lawyer
    Phone(253) 405-4360
    Law Office Of Bryan G. Hershman, Esq
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    72
    Lantern
    Score
    Tacoma, WA
    Serves Tacoma, WA and Pierce County
    ★★★★★4.5(13 Google reviews)

    Blanford Law is a Tacoma-based legal practice offering criminal defense, family law, and personal injury representation. The firm serves clients throughout the Pierce County area with experienced counsel on serious criminal charges, divorce and custody matters, and injury claims. They provide personalized legal strategies tailored to each client's specific circumstances.

    Ideal clients: Criminal defendants, individuals going through divorce or custody disputes, personal injury claimants
    What sets them apart
    • Handles criminal defense, family law, and personal injury cases, providing comprehensive legal solutions across multiple practice areas.
    • Based in downtown Tacoma with direct knowledge of local courts, judges, and legal procedures in Pierce County.
    Criminal DefenseFamily LawPersonal InjuryTacoma Attorney
    Phone(253) 720-9304
    Blanford Law
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is the top-ranked criminal defense attorney in Tacoma?

    Kertchen Law is the top-ranked criminal defense firm in Tacoma with a Lantern Score of 85.82/100 and a 5★ rating from 1,662 reviews. They specialize in firearms rights restoration, helping clients regain gun ownership rights after felony convictions, domestic violence convictions, and background check denials.

    Which Tacoma criminal defense attorney specializes in DUI cases?

    Law Office of Scott Moriarity (Lantern Score: 85.70/100) is a top choice for DUI/DWI defense in Tacoma, with a 5★ rating from 647 reviews. Attorney Scott Moriarity specializes exclusively in traffic offenses, driving infractions, and DUI/DWI cases throughout Washington State.

    What options exist for drug charge defense in Tacoma?

    Multiple highly-ranked firms handle drug charges in Tacoma, including Attorney At Law Vinny Randhawa (Lantern Score: 85.49/100, 5★), Pacific Point Defense (Lantern Score: 83.76/100, 4.9★), and Law Office of Chris Van Vechten (Lantern Score: 78.34/100, 4.8★). All three offer specialized defense representation for drug-related criminal accusations.

    Who is best for felony and misdemeanor defense in Tacoma?

    Attorney At Law Vinny Randhawa (Lantern Score: 85.49/100, 5★ with 317 reviews) provides comprehensive criminal defense for felony and misdemeanor charges throughout Kent and surrounding areas. South Sound Law Group (Lantern Score: 83.79/100, 4.9★) is another excellent option with over 40 years of experience defending felony and misdemeanor cases.

    Are there criminal defense attorneys in Tacoma who handle juvenile cases?

    Yes, Attorney At Law Vinny Randhawa (Lantern Score: 85.49/100, 5★ with 317 reviews) specializes in juvenile defense representation. Beckwith Law (Lantern Score: 79.37/100, 4.7★) also lists juvenile defendants as a key practice area, with aggressive criminal defense representation since 2004.

    Which Tacoma criminal defense firm has experience with expungement?

    South Sound Law Group (Lantern Score: 83.79/100, 4.9★ with 340 reviews) specifically offers expungement services and is a veteran-owned, family-run firm with over 40 years of experience in criminal defense throughout Tacoma and Pierce County.

    This directory of criminal defense local businesses serving Tacoma, WA is maintained by Lantern. Rankings are determined by the Lantern Score — not advertising or payment for placement. Learn how it works. Last updated April 16, 2026. To claim or update a listing, contact us.