Criminal Defense Lawyer · Tempe, AZ/Updated June 13, 2026
The 9 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Tempe, AZ
Facing legal challenges in Tempe? Our ranking highlights the best criminal defense lawyers to help you navigate your case with confidence.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceMatthew Lopez Law, PLLC
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Tempe-metro criminal defense lawyer businesses evaluated, top 9 ranked by Vetted Score.
In Tempe, the competition among criminal defense lawyers is fierce, with a mix of well-reviewed leaders and smaller firms. The density of providers and their close ratings indicate a market that values quality representation, making it essential for you to choose wisely when facing legal issues.
We evaluated ten firms in the Tempe area, focusing on their ratings, review counts, and overall reputation. The final rankings reflect a combination of these factors, ensuring that you have access to reliable legal support without any bias toward placement.
10criminal defense lawyers evaluated in Tempe
4.83average rating across the field
1.3Kcustomer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
With a stellar rating of 4.8 from 821 reviews, Matthew Lopez Law, PLLC is frequently praised for its thorough case preparation and strong communication skills.
To compile our list, we assessed each law firm based on their Vetted Scores, which consider customer reviews, responsiveness, and overall service quality. We believe in transparency, so it's important to note that no firm pays for placement on this list.
Our rankings are refreshed monthly, keeping the data current and relevant for anyone seeking legal assistance in Tempe. This ongoing evaluation helps us maintain a trustworthy resource for residents in need of criminal defense services.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With a stellar rating of 4.8 from 821 reviews, Matthew Lopez Law, PLLC is frequently praised for its thorough case preparation and strong communication skills. Clients appreciate the personal attention they receive, making it ideal for those facing serious charges. However, some feel the firm may be on the pricier side compared to others in the area.
Pros
Highly experienced attorneys
Strong client communication
Thorough case preparation
Cons
Higher pricing compared to some competitors
May not take every case
Best forSerious criminal charges requiring extensive legal support
Huss Law - Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyers holds a strong rating of 4.8 based on 186 reviews. Clients commend the firm for its affordability and effective defense strategies, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious individuals. However, some reviews indicate that the firm may handle a higher volume of cases, which could impact personalized attention.
Pros
Affordable pricing
Effective defense strategies
Good client feedback
Cons
May handle many cases at once
Less personalized attention
Best forIndividuals seeking cost-effective legal representation
The Law Office of James E. Novak has a rating of 4.8 from 139 reviews. Clients highlight the attorney's dedication and extensive knowledge of the law, which are especially beneficial for those facing DUI charges. However, the firm has a smaller review base compared to the top contenders, making it somewhat less proven.
Pros
Dedicated and knowledgeable attorney
Strong focus on DUI cases
Positive client experiences
Cons
Smaller review base
Limited range of services compared to larger firms
Oliverson Law DUI & Criminal Defense has a solid rating of 4.9 from 79 reviews. Clients appreciate the attorney's approachable demeanor and thorough case evaluations. It is a good fit for those looking for personalized service, but with a smaller review count, some may find it less established than larger firms.
The Law Offices of John Phebus has a perfect rating of 5 from 30 reviews, indicating strong client satisfaction. Reviewers commend the firm for its responsiveness and thoroughness in handling cases. However, the limited number of reviews may leave some potential clients unsure about the firm's overall experience. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients seeking responsive legal assistance. It serves Tempe, AZ, with $200 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited review count and less experience with larger cases.
Pros
Responsive and thorough
High client satisfaction
Personalized attention
Cons
Limited review count
Less experience with larger cases
Best forClients seeking responsive legal assistance
The Law Office of Raymond A. Kimble has a commendable rating of 4.8 from 53 reviews. Clients frequently mention the attorney's commitment to their cases and detailed explanations of the legal process. However, the firm has a smaller client base, which may indicate limited availability for new clients. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients needing detailed legal guidance. It serves Tempe, AZ, with $150 to $350 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are smaller client base and limited availability for new clients.
The Law Offices of T. M. Allen also holds a perfect rating of 5 from 19 reviews. Clients appreciate the attorney's eagerness to fight for their rights and the supportive environment. Still, with only 19 reviews, the firm may not have enough experience to handle all types of cases confidently.
Ted Law has a rating of 4.7 from 11 reviews. Clients have praised the firm for its straightforward approach and honesty about case outcomes. However, the small number of reviews suggests that it may not have the proven track record of some larger firms in Tempe. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients wanting direct communication. It serves Tempe, AZ, with $150 to $300 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are very limited review base and less proven track record.
AZ Defenders has a rating of 4.7 from just 9 reviews. Some clients appreciate the firm’s dedication and willingness to fight for their rights. However, such a small review base raises questions regarding the firm's reliability and overall performance compared to more established firms. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients looking for dedicated representation. It serves Tempe, AZ, with $150 to $300 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are very small client base and unproven reliability.
Pros
Dedicated representation
Willing to fight for clients' rights
Cons
Very small client base
Unproven reliability
Best forClients looking for dedicated representation
Selecting the right criminal defense lawyer in Tempe involves careful consideration of several factors that can impact your case's outcome.
Evaluate their experience
Look for lawyers who specialize in criminal defense and have a proven track record in cases similar to yours.
Check responsiveness
A lawyer's ability to respond quickly can be critical. Consider those who prioritize timely communication.
Consider local knowledge
Choose a lawyer familiar with Tempe's court system and local laws, as this can influence case strategy.
What it costs
What criminal defense lawyers cost in Tempe
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Tempe can vary widely based on the complexity of your case and the lawyer's experience.
Basic consultation$100 to $300 for an initial meeting to discuss your case.
Hourly rates$150 to $500 per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and reputation.
Flat fees for specific cases$1,500 to $5,000 for straightforward cases like DUI or misdemeanors.
Retainer fees$2,500 to $10,000, with additional costs for ongoing legal representation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does hiring a criminal defense lawyer cost in Tempe?
In Tempe, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 per hour for criminal defense lawyers, depending on their experience and the complexity of your case.
What should I look for in a criminal defense lawyer?
Look for a lawyer with a solid track record, positive client reviews, and specific experience in the type of case you are facing. You may want to prioritize those with high ratings and a strong number of reviews.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most Tempe residents: <strong>Matthew Lopez Law, PLLC</strong>
If you are facing serious charges and need a highly-rated advocate, Matthew Lopez Law, PLLC is your best bet, with 4.8 stars from 821 reviews. For those dealing with DUI cases specifically, Huss Law - Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyers offers a strong focus and a comparable rating. If you're looking for a promising option with a personal touch, The Law Office of James E. Novak has a solid reputation and a good rating, though with fewer reviews. Choose based on your specific needs and comfort level.
Cityvetted
