The best criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix in 2026 include James E. Novak, who says he handles only criminal and DUI defense, Mark Weingart, a former Tempe judge and board-certified specialist, Belen Law Firm for Spanish-speaking clients, Gordon Thompson for flat-fee cases, and Maria Jones Law Firm for non-citizens.
| Firm | Office | Focus | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. The Law Office of James E. Novak | Tempe | Criminal and DUI defense only | Clients in the East Valley |
| 2. The Weingart Firm | Tempe | Criminal defense and DUI | Clients wanting a certified specialist |
| 3. Belen Law Firm | Downtown Phoenix | Misdemeanors and felonies | Spanish-speaking clients downtown |
| 4. Gordon Thompson, Attorney at Law | Central Corridor | Flat-fee DUI and criminal | People wanting predictable costs |
| 5. Maria Jones Law Firm | Central Corridor | Criminal defense for non-citizens | Non-citizens facing charges |
| 6. My AZ Lawyers | Downtown Phoenix | Criminal defense | Clients who need payment plans |
Felony cases are heard in Maricopa County Superior Court, and misdemeanors in the city courts and justice courts, so it helps to know the court in question. The State Bar of Arizona certifies criminal law specialists, and some lawyers here say they hold that certification. If you aren't a US citizen, ask about immigration consequences before you plead to anything.
Says he handles only criminal and DUI defense.
James E. Novak says he practices exclusively in criminal and DUI defense in Maricopa County and that he's a former prosecutor. The site breaks out drug, assault, weapons, theft and sex charges.
Good to know: He offers a free consultation at 480-413-1499.
4500 S Lakeshore Dr, Suite 352, Tempe, AZ 85282
A former Tempe judge, per the firm.
Mark Weingart says he's a board-certified criminal law specialist and former Tempe judge. The firm has offices in Tempe and Phoenix.
Good to know: Check certification with the State Bar of Arizona.
4500 S Lakeshore Dr, Suite 550, Tempe, AZ 85282
English and Spanish service.
Belen Law Firm defends misdemeanors and felonies, from arson to aggravated assault, on North 1st Street, and offers 24-hour availability and service in English and Spanish.
Good to know: Ask who will appear for you in court.
1 N 1st St, Suite 713, Phoenix, AZ 85004
All-inclusive flat fees, per the firm.
Gordon Thompson cites 47 years of experience and advertises an all-inclusive flat fee with payment plans. His practice is DUI and criminal defense.
Good to know: Confirm that the flat fee covers a trial.
21 W Pasadena Ave, Suite 4, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Criminal defense with immigration under one roof.
Maria Jones Law Firm handles DUI, domestic violence, assault and burglary as well as immigration, which is valuable for anyone whose status might be at risk.
Good to know: Don't plead until you've had immigration advice.
202 E Earll Dr, Suite 370, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Criminal defense with payment plans.
My AZ Lawyers handles criminal defense and DUI, advertises payment plans, and has several Valley offices.
Good to know: Ask which lawyer focuses on criminal cases.
343 W Roosevelt St, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Stay polite, give your identifying details, say that you want a lawyer and don't answer questions. Don't talk about the case on a jail phone, because calls can be recorded.
Many charge a flat fee by charge and stage of the case. Ask what's included, especially a trial. If you can't afford a lawyer and could go to jail, you can ask the court to appoint a public defender.
Arizona allows many convictions to be set aside, and some records to be sealed, depending on the offense and your history. Ask a lawyer what applies. Community Legal Services has a set-aside program too.