Sacramento · CA · Vetted Directory

Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sacramento

If you have been arrested or charged in Sacramento, the first 48 hours matter most, especially before an arraignment at the Gordon D. Schaber Sacramento County Courthouse. What you pay depends on the charge: a misdemeanor often runs a flat $1,500-$5,000, a DUI $2,500-$10,000, and a felony $5,000-$25,000 or more. California also gives you a free public defender if you cannot afford a lawyer. Below are vetted Sacramento criminal defense firms, from first-time DUIs to serious felonies in Sacramento County Superior Court.

48 hrs
Move Fast
$1,500-$5,000
Misdemeanor, Flat
$5,000-$25,000+
Felony, Typical
Sac. County
Superior Court

Updated May 1, 2026

When you need a Sacramento criminal defense lawyer

If you are charged with a crime in Sacramento, you should talk to a defense lawyer before you talk to police. Get a lawyer right away when:

  • You have been arrested or know charges are coming.
  • Police want to question you or search your home, car, or phone.
  • You are facing a DUI, domestic violence, or any felony charge.
  • You have a prior record that could increase the penalties.
  • You are not a U.S. citizen and a conviction could affect your immigration status.

What a Sacramento criminal defense lawyer costs

Criminal defense fees depend on the seriousness of the charge and whether the case goes to trial. Most Sacramento defense lawyers quote a flat fee by charge type.

$1,500-$5,000
Misdemeanor, flat
$2,500-$10,000
DUI, typical
$5,000-$25,000+
Felony, typical
Free
Public defender if eligible

If you cannot afford a private lawyer, the Sacramento County Public Defender represents you at no cost. A private firm gives you more direct attention and time. For the national picture, see our criminal defense guide, or browse all Sacramento lawyers.

How long it takes in Sacramento

  • Arrest and booking: you are typically arraigned within about 48 hours if in custody.
  • Arraignment: you enter a plea at the Sacramento County Courthouse; bail is set or reviewed.
  • Pretrial and motions: weeks to months of evidence review, negotiation, and motions.
  • Trial or plea: most cases resolve by plea; a contested felony trial can take many months.

Sacramento firms that handle criminal defense

1

Chastaine | Jones

SacramentoBoutiquecriminal defense, DUI, felonies

A Sacramento criminal defense firm led by former prosecutors, handling DUIs, felonies, and white-collar cases. A strong choice for serious charges that may go to trial.

Free ConsultationFree consult
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2

Law Offices of John Campanella

SacramentoSolo / smallcriminal defense, DUI, drug charges

A Sacramento defense attorney with long experience in DUI and felony cases. A fit for clients who want one seasoned lawyer handling the case directly.

Free ConsultationFree consult
Request Free Consult
3

The Nieves Law Firm

SacramentoBoutiquecriminal defense, DUI, expungements

A California criminal defense firm with a Sacramento-area presence covering DUIs, misdemeanors, and record clearing. A reasonable pick for first-time charges and expungements.

Free ConsultationFree consult
Request Free Consult
4

Wise Law Group

SacramentoBoutiquecriminal defense, DUI, domestic violence

A Sacramento firm handling DUI, domestic violence, and felony defense. A good option for clients who want responsive, hands-on representation.

Free ConsultationFree consult
Request Free Consult
5

Sactown Law

SacramentoBoutiquecriminal defense, DUI, misdemeanors

A Sacramento defense practice focused on local courts, handling DUIs and misdemeanor charges. A fit for straightforward cases where a quick, knowledgeable response matters.

Free ConsultationFree consult
Request Free Consult

See the full ranked write-up in our Top 10 criminal defense lawyers in Sacramento guide. Firm details are gathered from public sources; ratings not shown are not yet aggregated.

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Criminal Defense in Sacramento — FAQ

Should I talk to the police before getting a lawyer?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. Politely decline to answer questions and ask to speak with a criminal defense lawyer first. What you say can be used against you, even casual remarks.
What does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Sacramento?
A misdemeanor is often a flat $1,500-$5,000, a DUI $2,500-$10,000, and a felony $5,000-$25,000 or more depending on complexity and whether it goes to trial. If you can't afford a lawyer, the public defender represents you free.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in California?
A misdemeanor carries up to a year in county jail, while a felony can mean state prison. Some California charges are wobblers, meaning the prosecutor can file them either way, which a defense lawyer may be able to influence.
Where will my Sacramento case be heard?
Most Sacramento criminal cases are heard at the Gordon D. Schaber Sacramento County Courthouse downtown. Your lawyer will know the local judges and prosecutors, which can matter in negotiations.
Can a conviction be removed from my record?
Often, yes. California allows expungement of many convictions after you complete probation, and there are separate paths for reducing felonies and sealing arrests. A defense lawyer can tell you what you qualify for.

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