Top Criminal Defense Lawyers Near Me in Columbia Area

David Zwanetz, Owner and Co-Managing Partner, brings a passion for justice to each case he takes. He handles many of the firm’s criminal defense cases, helping clients to confidently protect their future. If you face legal concerns that require the help of an attorney, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation and let us work for you.. Dial now or contact Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake online to schedule a free consultation with our Columbia criminal defense lawyers.. Pursuing Justice for Over a Decade. With a loud “crack,” the surly Howard County police officer brought his heel down hard in the middle of the skateboard, snapping it cleanly into two useless pieces. The 14-year-old skater punk, David Zwanetz, watched as the board—which took months of re-gripping golf clubs to buy—was reduced to splinters. David wasn’t a bad kid, but the skateboarding opportunities near the Columbia, Maryland Lakefront were irresistible to a 14-year-old. The cop on duty didn’t seem to care as he kicked the remains of David’s hard-earned skateboard into the bushes with a smirk and sent him home.. His grandparents had immigrated to the United States from Italy and Russia in the early 1920's, eventually settling in Philadelphia. After moving to Howard County, David grew up in a blue-collar household and was the first person in his immediate family to attain an education beyond college. He learned to prioritize education, hard work, and sacrifice to obtain his goals.. Once, when David was barely 9 years old, his grandfather pulled him aside, looked him straight in the eye and said, “We came from Russia to give you a chance. Your father moved to Maryland to advance our family and to give you an opportunity. If you do not take advantage of that it will be a disgrace to our family.” That chance conversation left an indelible mark in his mind.. Immediately after recounting the skateboarding incident to his father, David was told, “no one is going to listen to you. You’re a punk kid skateboarding where you’re not supposed to, and this cop broke your skateboard. There’s nothing you can do about it.”. The next sentence out of his father's mouth lodged in David’s mind like a splinter: “The only way for you to fix this problem is for you to become educated and become an attorney and make sure this doesn’t happen to other people. That’s it. That’s all you can do.” Little did he know, this statement would determine the course of David’s life and career from that point forward.. Dedication to Legal Excellence. Although he battled dyslexia on a daily basis, David excelled in English, fine arts, and sports during his high school years. He spent much of his time drawing, painting, and traveling the east coast playing hockey for the Howard County Huskies and the Chesapeake Chiefs. In the off seasons, David trained and played hockey at Notre Dame University in Indiana.. After graduating high school, David focused on British literature at Salisbury University, where he remained on the Dean's list from 1998 to 2001. David studied fine arts and Italian literature for a semester at the University of Florence in Florence, Italy in 1998. He was inducted into the National Literary Honors Society in the year 2000. While in Italy, David studied and excelled in Tae Kwon Do, fell in love with combat sports, and soon returned to the United States to train and compete in both Tae Kwon Do and American boxing.. David began his legal studies at Widener University School of Law in 2002. During law school, David realized that Widener's Italian American Legal Society was lacking. He contacted the Order Sons of Italy in America (a 650,000 member worldwide Italian American organization), and was granted permission to start his own OSIA branch at Widener.. David created the first ever law school-based branch of OSIA and was duly recognized by several national publications. During his last semester, David was admitted early to the Delaware Bar to participate in the Delaware Volunteer Legal Services, where he focused on assisting victims of domestic abuse.. Facing serious legal issues? Get the help of experienced professionals. Call Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake today by dialing.. Overcoming Adversity. Upon completion of law school, David returned to Howard County to prepare for and take the Bar exam. While awaiting his results, he tended bar and managed at Historic Ellicott City's Cacao Lane. Ten days before David is sworn in as an attorney, tragedy struck and he lost his longtime girlfriend to a tragic car accident not 5 minutes from their home.. Despite a less-than-perfect upbringing, and suffering personal tragedy, David was admitted to the Maryland Bar on December 15, 2005. David quickly progressed in his time with Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake trying a multitude of criminal cases throughout Maryland. In fact, David has the rarified distinction with Jason Shapiro of trying and getting dismissed all charges against a client accused of First and Second Degree Murder, as well as Manslaughter. This case, tried jointly by Mr. Shapiro and David, is the only murder case dismissed in its entirety by the Office of the State's Attorney in this century.. Continuing the Fight. Possessing a fighter's spirit from early childhood and honed from years of combat sports, David began training daily at Crazy 88 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2007, under the tutelage of Julius Park and started competing immediately. A few short years later, he placed 2nd in the World Championships of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a Blue Belt. David, now a Brown Belt, still trains daily, teaches, and competes.. Today, David is an active participant in the Howard County Bar Association, the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney's Association, and the National Criminal Defense Attorney's Association and sits on the Executive Board of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association. In 2008, he was formally recognized by the National College for DUI Defense for his efforts in the defense of citizens accused of driving under the influence. In 2013 he was named a “Superior DUI Attorney” by the National Advocacy Center for DUI Defense.. Personalized Legal Advocacy. David has found a way to let his eccentricities work for him in a positive way as he fights zealously in court and out of court to protect Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake clients and most importantly, the Constitutional rights afforded to all US citizens. He runs a thriving YouTube channel with a mission to inform the public about little-known Constitutional Protections. David prides himself on his work ethic and dedication to his clients in a personal capacity. He truly believes that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”. Committed to Community & Family. He and his wife Cathy were married in September 2007. In October of 2013 their son Xander was born, and approximately two years later, in November 2015, their daughter Zoë came into the world. On May 6, 2014, on David’s 35th birthday, he became Partner. Two years later Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake was formed - Jason A. Shapiro and David Zwanetz remain the two establishing partners, and more importantly the closest of friends.. “For me,” says David, “the greatest thing that could ever happen to me is some crooked cop violated my rights as a 14-year-old because it propelled my entire career. He underestimated me, and I am thankful for that. Without that, who knows what would've happened or where I would be today. That single event planted a seed of determination in me that drove me to work hard to defend my clients. I think that is very funny.”. “If I were to justify where I am right now in my career, a lot of it has to do with my martial arts training at Crazy 88 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I view being a BJJ practitioner and a zealous lawyer as one and the same. I attribute much of my success to Master Julius Park, who I consider a best friend. We believe that our purpose is to improve our surroundings with the improvement of ourselves.”. Year admitted to bar: 2005. Law School: Widener University School of Law (Wilmington, D.E.). College: Salisbury University. Born: May 6, 1979 Reading, PA

Daniel Coble was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina. He attended public schools growing up in Columbia. He received his undergraduate degree from Clemson University in Economics. After college, Daniel attended University of South Carolina School of Law where he received his law degree.. After graduation, Daniel worked as a prosecutor for the Fifth Circuit Solicitor's Office. He was appointed as a Richland County Magistrate Judge in 2017 where he served full time at Central Court on Decker Boulevard until 2021.. Daniel is married and has a young daughter and a Yellow Lab, Jack. In his spare time, Daniel enjoys spending time with his family, deer hunting, and reading historical fiction novels and autobiographies.. Daniel is the founder and editor of the legal resource Everyday/Evidence.

Criminal defense attorney Taylor Bell serves as a crucial shield between individuals and the formidable government machinery, offering unwavering support to those facing legal challenges.. With a Bachelor's in business administration from UNC Wilmington and a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law, Taylor Bell brings extensive expertise to his role. Formerly with the Richland County Public Defender’s office, Bell now excels at Jeffcoat Criminal Defense Lawyers, specializing in criminal defense, professional licensing defense, DUI defense, and domestic violence.. His relentless advocacy has led to numerous dismissals and sentence reductions, highlighting his commitment to justice.. Beyond his legal prowess, Bell's dedication extends to coaching wrestling at River Bluff High School and active involvement in the South Carolina Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Association, reflecting his holistic approach to positively impacting his community.. Contact Jeffcoat Criminal Defense Lawyers today for a free case evaluation.

Columbia lawyer Brian D. Sleeth of Rutter and Sleeth Law Offices delivers thorough and personalized family law counsel for our local community. He handles cases involving divorce and dissolution of marriage, child or spousal support, custody and visitation arrangements, paternity, adoptions, or any of the firm’s other related legal areas of practice. Attorney Sleeth has the experience, education, and insight to help. He is recognized by former and current clients for his dedication, communication, and knowledge in even the most complex matters. To learn more, contact the Rutter and Sleeth Law Offices to schedule an initial case consultation to discuss your legal matter.

Born and raised in Sumter, South Carolina, attorney Moses earned academic Gold Stars in his freshman year at The Citadel - The Military College of South Carolina. He transferred to Wofford College, where he graduated with honors, cum laude. After earning his J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law, Mr. Moses clerked for the Honorable Thomas W. Cooper, Jr., Circuit Judge of the Third Judicial Circuit. After his clerkship, Mr. Moses became a state prosecutor for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, prosecuting cases that included DUI offenses, domestic violence (DV), assault and battery, felony drug offenses, burglary, armed robbery, and murder. This litigation experience has proven to be invaluable in his current position as a private attorney.  Mr. Moses handles all types of criminal charges in State and Federal Court, DUI and felony DUI offenses, felony drug offenses, domestic violence charges, assault and battery cases, robbery cases, traffic offenses, and misdemeanors.  In addition to his criminal practice, Mr. Moses also handles a wide variety of civil cases to include personal injury, auto accidents, negligence, wrongful death, and workers compensation claims.

Bill Nettles possesses an extraordinary, almost unparalleled depth and breadth of experience. You cannot find an attorney who will be better equipped to provide you with the high-quality representation you deserve.. Mr. Nettles was appointed United States Attorney for the District of South Carolina by President Obama and was sworn into that office on May 3, 2010. As the US Attorney, he dramatically overhauled the office to focus on public corruption, fraud and white collar crime, while also greatly increasing resources to the extraordinarily important false claims whistleblower division. Under Mr. Nettles' leadership, the US Attorney's office made white collar crime and public corruption the highest priority of the criminal division's efforts He also earned national praise for the innovative and intelligent approach his office took to drug crimes.. Mr. Nettles was the longest serving US attorney since the 1960's, ensuring he had an extraordinary impact on the personnel and the policies of that important office. Because of his service as the United States Attorney for the entire state of South Carolina he has worked with the heads of the Department of Justice to help shape policy for the last 5 and a half years.. If you're looking for an attorney you know you can trust in Columbia, Greenville, Charleston or any other community in South Carolina areas, please call the Law Office of Bill Nettles at  for a free consultation.

Ben Faber focuses his practice in the fields of DWI defense, alcohol and drug offenses, traffic violations, and general criminal defense matters, including cases in both state and federal courts. Ben grew up in Columbia, Missouri, and understands the unique dynamic of central Missouri. After graduating Rock Bridge high school, he attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where he received a bachelor’s degree in History. He went on to the University of Missouri School of Law where earned a Juris Doctorate and a Certificate in Dispute Resolution. While in law school, Ben clerked at a local law firm where he gained the experience in criminal law, personal injury, workers’ compensation, and administrative law. He is an active member of the Boone County Bar Association, the Boone County Bar Association Criminal Defense Committee, the Missouri Bar Association, and the Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.. Ben Faber has handled hundreds of criminal cases and strives for the best possible result for his clients in every case. When he is not able to secure a dismissal or favorable outcome through negotiation, Ben is not afraid to take the fight into the courtroom, and has successfully argued motions to suppress evidence which has resulted in the case being dismissed. Ben Faber has also had success in Missouri Department of Revenue Driver’s License hearings, finding creative ways to win and maintain his clients' driving privileges after a DWI arrest. In 2013, Ben was part of the team that won the freedom of Anthony Williams, who had been wrongly convicted in 1994 and spent over 20 years in prison before being released as a result of the work done by the Bukowsky Law Firm. Ben has written briefs in the Missouri Court of Appeals in both civil and criminal.. Ben is a member of the Missouri Bar Lawyers for Veterans program, and also volunteers his time as the staff criminal defense attorney for Boone County Veteran’s Court, a treatment-based alternative sentencing court. He lives in Columbia with his wife and daughters.

Becoming Owner and Co-Managing Partner at Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake is the realization of a dream that began years ago. Justin first had the opportunity to work with Jason Shapiro and David Zwanetz as a law clerk while in his second year of law school at the University of Baltimore. During that time, it was immediately apparent that Jason, David, and Justin all shared the same values and the same passion for fighting for every client and their particular and individual situations. Justin knew that this was “home”, and it was his dream to one day return after law school to join forces once again with Jason and David.. Upon joining them (Shapiro Zwanetz & Associates) in 2018, Justin’s effectiveness in the courtroom was quickly recognized by his peers as he was selected as one of Maryland Superlawyer’s Rising Stars, which is a distinction awarded to only 2.5% of the attorneys in Maryland.. Being charged with a crime and facing the criminal justice system can be a scary and daunting process. Justin takes great pride in each of his client's cases and works hard to keep all clients informed throughout the entire process.. Justin has years of experience handling a wide range of criminal, DUI/DWI, and traffic cases. Prior to Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, Justin was an Assistant State’s Attorney at the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office. During his nearly four years at the State’s Attorney’s office, Justin prosecuted thousands of DUI/DWI and misdemeanor cases, prompting his quick promotion to the Circuit Court Division, where he routinely handled major felony cases including Robbery, Armed Robbery, and First Degree Murder. Justin is now handling these same types of cases, and the experience Justin has as a former prosecutor allows him to meticulously analyze each and every aspect of his cases to get the best results for his clients.. One particularly notable case that Justin has handled was during the winter of 2019 when Justin represented a client charged with First Degree Rape, a felony that carries the possibility of life in prison. The case was not called for trial until over one full year from the date that charges were initiated. Through Justin’s tireless efforts to defend his client, he learned that the prosecution’s case was based solely on false accusations. One of the most satisfying moments of Justin’s career was when, due to Justin’s superb lawyering, evidence proposed by the State was excluded and the prosecution was forced to dismiss all charges against Justin’s client. Sharing with his client and the client’s family that their nightmare was finally over is a pinnacle moment in Justin’s career that he will never forget. Perhaps this is just one reason why one of the Maryland judges commented about him: “Justin has impressed me so much…..He puts a lot of thought into his approach for each of his clients and chose the perfect words to say on their behalf. If I didn’t know any better I’d swear Justin has been doing criminal defense for 20+ years. He is so polished and poised….”. Justin is a lifelong Maryland resident, growing up in Howard County with his parents and two sisters. Justin received his undergraduate degree from The Pennsylvania State University and matriculated from the University of Baltimore School of Law, where he graduated Cum Laude. Justin now lives in Baltimore with his wife and daughter. Justin is a passionate D.C. sports fan and enjoys cheering on the Washington Football Team, Nationals, Capitals, Wizards, and of course his Nittany Lions.

Attorney Scott J. Hayes has been practicing law in South Carolina since June of 2006.  Upon receipt of his South Carolina Bar License, Scott went to work as an Assistant Solicitor in Richland County.  Scott spent the next two years prosecuting individuals charged with crimes in Circuit Court.  During those two years managed hundreds of pending criminal charges that were brought against individuals by local law enforcement officers.  Scott presented on behalf of the State of South Carolina in hundreds of preliminary, motion, and plea hearings during his time as a Prosecutor.  Further, Scott actively participated in nearly twenty (20) Jury Trials.  These twenty Jury Trials included charges of Murder, Armed Robbery, Burglary, Aggravated Assaults and Criminal Domestic Violence gaining valuable trial experience.. Following the two years that Scott spent as an Assistant Solicitor in Richland County, Scott was hired as the Staff Attorney for the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.  Scott served the Richland County Sheriff’s Department in the capacity of an In-House Counsel from June of 2008 until May of 2015.  At the time of his resignation, Scott was one of the longest tenured In-House Law Enforcement Lawyers in the State of South Carolina.. During his time as the Staff Attorney for the Richland County Sheriff’s Department Scott had many job responsibilities. One of the primary responsibilities assigned to Scott was Supervisor of Internal Affairs. Internal Affairs essentially attempts to police the Police and serves as the quality control mechanism for law enforcement to ensure that all Professional Standards are being respected and maintained.  Scott was also responsible for spearheading the defense of any employee that was sued for actions allegedly occurring on the watch of the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.  During his seven years at the Sheriff’s Department Scott spearheaded these defenses in countless civil actions including alleged Civil Rights violations of excessive force and false arrest, and claims arising from car accidents, among others.  Additionally, Scott represented the interests of the men and women in law enforcement involved in a critical incident, such as an officer involved shooting.. Scott also served as a Special Prosecutor for the Fifth Judicial Circuit while employed by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.  As a Special Prosecutor Scott tried several smaller yet very meaningful cases in front of Richland County Juries with great success.. Some of Scott’s day to day activities while at the Sheriff’s Department included advising law enforcement officers on their criminal investigations and overseeing information compliance efforts, along with many others.. Currently, Attorney Scott J. Hayes has his own law practice in Columbia, South Carolina.  Scott enthusiastically represents the legal interests of South Carolinians here in the Midlands and those throughout the Palmetto State.   Scott puts his unique employment experience to work for people who are in need of responsible legal representation. Call, click, or come by today to communicate directly with Scott and let him put his experience to work for you.

As a 41 year old Christian, I am married 21 years with four children, a son and three daughters.  I was raised in Marion County on a farm in the Improve Community attending Bassfield schools for ten years and East Marion for two to graduate.  I then served active duty in the U. S. Army. Thereafter, after trade school at PRCC, I worked in the heating and air conditioning trade until I was injured and returned to school.  With the support of my wife I successfully attended PRCC and USM obtaining my bachelor degree in history and political science and went on to Ole Miss to obtain my law degree by December 2002.. I have practiced over eleven years working for a criminal prosecutor, civil litigation defense firm, and opened my office as a solo practitioner over seven years ago in Columbia.  I have worked and tried cases in the circuit, chancery, justice, municipal, and youth courts, which include issues of discrimination, contract, warranty, professional liability, real property, criminal law, employer discrimination, personal injury, and family law.  The focus of my practice is on family law and criminal defense.. I have the intelligence, energy, and devotion to provide quality service without the ego or political associations limiting my ability to provide those services in a small community with integrity, ethically and in accordance with the law.  My individualism, integrity, and idealism in my practice has led to me being labeled a bully, bulldog, and stubborn, but my integrity, character, ethics, and professionalism have no price.. Allow me the opportunity to serve your legal needs with what I bring to the table, true concern for your legal needs combined with professionalism, integrity and experience.. Thanks and God Bless.

As a criminal defense attorney, I have the privilege of defending our Constitution on a daily basis as I fight to protect my clients' rights, records, and freedom.  The Bukowsky Law Firm team is thorough, hard-working, creative, innovative, and dedicated to delivering the highest level of legal service to our clients.   We handle all types of criminal matters including felonies, misdemeanors, DWIs, and traffic matters.  We practice throughout Mid-Missouri in circuit court, municipal court, the Missouri Court of Appeals, the Missouri Supreme Court, and United States District Court.

Although his law firm is located in Columbia, Missouri, Bogdan A. Susan has provided legal representation in matters that have attracted both state-wide and national attention. He has represented a wide array of individuals who have either been injured or accused of a crime, to include students, employees, and professionals. Because of his successful representation in DWI cases, clients have been able to continue with their education or advance in their professional field.. Bogdan A. Susan strongly believes that good people make mistakes and deserve the opportunity of a second chance. This is especially true when representing students, who make up a large part of the population in Columbia, Missouri. He understands how important it is to have a clean criminal record after graduation, when trying to enter the competitive job market. He works with his clients, not just for them.. If you have recently been charged with an alcohol related crime, you must act quickly to protect your right to drive, please contact Bogdan A. Susan to schedule a free consultation.

Adam Dowling handles all types of Criminal cases, Felony and Misdemeanor, in State, Municipal and Federal Courts, including: Murder, Manslaughter, Assault, Rape, Sodomy, Molestation, Sexual Assault, Arson, Robbery, Burglary, Fraud, Stealing, Embezzelment, Child Pornography/Internet Crimes, Child Abuse, Drug Crimes, DWI/DUI, White Collar Crimes, Weapons Crimes, Stalking/ Harassment, Domestic Violence, Animal Abuse, Bad Checks, MIP/ Fake ID, and all manner of Minor and Traffic Violations

A lifelong resident of Columbia, South Carolina, Joe holds both a B.S. (2009) and a J.D. (2013) from the University of South Carolina. While attending law school, Joe served as a law clerk at the Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office; after graduation, he began working as an Assistant Solicitor for that Office, trying cases in both General Sessions and Magistrate’s Court. Subsequent to his tenure in the Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Joe went to work for the Richard A. Harpootlian law firm, joining a team of other experienced litigators. There, he worked at the federal and state court levels handling a variety of criminal and civil litigation cases.. Joe aggressively seeks justice for his clients and is a tireless student of the law, leaving no stone unturned in his research and understanding of relevant case law that he can bring to bear in defending criminal clients and achieving a successful outcome for those with civil claims. He takes pride in finding solutions to complex problems and is passionate in his quest for justice for every client.

A Columbia, South Carolina DUI lawyer at The Laubshire Law Firm has the competence, commitment, and aggression you need at this pivotal time in your life. When you come to this law office, you can rest assured in the representation you can receive because Attorney Michael Laubshire, Esq. has assisted numerous other individuals who are dealing with situations comparable to yours and is well equipped to take on your case and fight for your rights and privileges. It is of great importance that you are supported by a lawyer who is not only knowledgeable and educated, but also competent and skilled. Attorney Laubshire meets that description. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Berklee College and his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Carolina. He went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from the University of South Carolina-School of Law. He has a membership with several well-known organizations, such as the American Bar Association and the South Carolina Bar Association. What’s more, Attorney Laubshire has been admitted to the South Carolina State Bar, the United States District for the District of South Carolina, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. He gained invaluable experience working in the 10th Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office as a former prosecutor, the SCDC Office of General Counsel as a staff attorney, and the Spartanburg Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff. Attorney Laubshire has dealt with a wide variety of DUI cases, and he is prepared to take on your case and support you today. He also has experience with family law and personal injury law, if you are dealing with such complications. You can rest assured in the representation you can receive when you contact this law office without delay and begin down the pathway to a brighter future.