How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

This guide covers typical criminal defense lawyer rates, what changes the total, and how to compare quotes from qualified providers.

$150 - $500 per hourtypical range

Criminal defense lawyers commonly charge $150 - $500 per hour, although many cases use a flat fee or retainer instead. A minor misdemeanor may cost $1,000 - $5,000 overall, while a serious felony can reach $10,000 - $50,000 or more.

Updated Sep 2026

Common jobs and what they cost

Job	What it involves	Typical range
Initial consultation	Case review and legal options	$0 - $500
Minor misdemeanor	Limited court appearances	$1,000 - $5,000
DUI defense	Hearings, negotiation, and license issues	$2,000 - $8,000
Felony defense	Investigation, motions, and trial preparation	$5,000 - $25,000
Serious felony trial	Extensive evidence and courtroom litigation	$15,000 - $50,000+

Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.

What moves the price

The main cost drivers are the charge, likely case length, evidence volume, and whether the matter goes to trial. A negotiated plea usually costs less than a contested hearing or jury trial, while multiple defendants, expert witnesses, forensic evidence, and appeals add work.

Rates also vary by the lawyer's experience, local market, and whether the case is handled by one attorney or a larger firm. Ask what the fee covers, which expenses are separate, and when additional work triggers a new charge.

How to keep the cost down

Ask for a written scope of work before paying a retainer, and compare flat-fee and hourly proposals on the same assumptions. Public defenders may be available if you qualify, and an early consultation can sometimes prevent unnecessary court work.

Do not choose on price alone: confirm licensing, courtroom experience with similar charges, billing terms, and who will handle the case. Comparing two or three quotes from independently reviewed providers on Reedleys shows quickly whether a number is fair.

Price questions, answered

Do criminal defense lawyers require a deposit?

Often, yes. Many request a retainer before starting, then bill against it or apply it to a flat-fee arrangement; ask whether unused funds are refundable.

Why do criminal defense quotes differ so much?

Lawyers may be pricing different scopes, levels of experience, and assumptions about plea negotiations versus trial. Confirm the expected stages, included appearances, and separate court or expert costs.

Can a criminal defense lawyer give a fixed fee?

Sometimes, especially for predictable misdemeanor matters. More complex cases may use hourly billing because the amount of investigation, motion practice, and court time is uncertain.