Local and Affordable Criminal Defense Lawyers
The cost of a defense attorney can be burdensome, but a conviction’s consequences can cost much more. If you face criminal charges, you do not want to risk hiring the wrong attorney solely because they come at a low cost.

How Much Should a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost?
The average cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer varies depending on the severity of the charge and the experience and reputation of the lawyer. Most criminal defense lawyers charge flat fees, payable at the beginning of the case or with scheduled payments. Some low-cost criminal defense attorneys offer payment plans. The need to hire a defense attorney is usually unexpected. The good news is that even great lawyers offer fair and affordable legal fees!
The Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., is aware that many Michiganders are having a tough time financially. We recognize most people don’t budget for a time when they need to hire a defense attorney. The need to be fair and reasonable is apparent when a person faces a criminal allegation and is unfamiliar with hiring a defense attorney to protect and defend themselves.
Beware of Budget Lawyers – You Get What You Pay For!
When hiring an attorney, you want to be aware that there are budget and low-cost criminal defense attorneys who focus more on the number of their clients (having as many as possible) instead of the quality of their legal representation. It can be challenging to spot lawyers who prey on unsuspecting clients with false representations and promises of exceptional results. Make sure you take the time to research an attorney on the internet to verify that, while they might be low-cost or affordable, they are well-regarded and specialize in criminal defense.
Can I Afford a Lawyer if I am Facing Criminal Charges?
If you do not have the financial ability to hire a lawyer, it is in your best interest to try to find a way to make it work. When asking yourself whether you can afford a lawyer, consider the cost of attorney fees in relation to the “cost” of a conviction. Penalties for criminal convictions include potential jail sentences, probation, and fines. Many people do not realize that a criminal conviction can jeopardize:
- child custody,
- employability,
- financial stability,
- family life,
- civil liberties (such as firearm rights),
- immigration status, and much more.
Your ability to obtain credit, get a mortgage or student loan, get a job requiring a license, or do anything requiring a criminal background check can be impacted. A criminal conviction might be on your record for many years or the rest of your life. When facing these severe and life-altering consequences, the cost of not hiring a good lawyer is much higher than the cost of getting a skilled attorney on your side.

It is Hard to Ask for Help, But There is No Time Like the Present
If there has ever been a time in your life to ask family, friends, or employers for help, this is the time. Your job, future, and liberty are all on the line. You get what you pay for relative to criminal defense lawyers. A cheap lawyer generally results in a lesser quality of service and a lesser quality of results. At such a critical time in your life, it is not the time to shop for bargain basement prices. On the other hand, you can find a fair, experienced criminal defense attorney who charges a fee within your budget.
Retaining a Low-Cost Criminal Defense Attorney vs. Requesting a Court-Appointed Attorney
The 6th Amendment guarantees court-appointed counsel for an indigent defendant in a criminal case. Generally, courts pay court-appointed lawyers a nominal fee for providing an adequate defense to those facing criminal charges. The standard for a court-appointed lawyer is to provide a level of defense that is not deficient. There are many talented, hard-working, court-appointed lawyers. On the other hand, some may focus on getting as many clients as possible to maximize their income and compromise the level of representation provided to each client. Still, many lack the experience and resources to provide a meaningful defense or to negotiate a favorable resolution with the prosecutor and judge.
To secure the best defense, you must engage a reasonable but specialized, low-cost criminal defense lawyer who will do whatever it takes to protect and defend you. When making this decision, ask yourself, “what is the value of your future, family, freedom, status in the United States, and reputation?” The answer to these questions will help you decide whether to hire a private attorney or request court-appointed counsel.

Call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. for a Free Consultation
If there is a way to help you, we will find it. We will not let you down!
The Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C.
There are lawyers for every budget. If you consider hiring a lawyer who is a solo practitioner or general practice lawyer, you can expect satisfactory representation. A criminal defense law firm, with a team of lawyers and experienced support staff, is in the best position to win cases. The total legal fee should not be significantly different. No single lawyer can achieve the same results as a team of attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and experts working in unison and collaborating.
Consider the Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. You deserve to be defended by someone who takes the time to get to know you, puts up a fight for you, and cares what happens to you. Although hiring a qualified criminal defense lawyer can be challenging, doing so is an investment in your future. Instead of asking, “can I afford a lawyer?” consider asking yourself, “can I find a good, affordable lawyer?” If you call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., we will take the time to talk with you, answer your questions, and work with you to find an affordable fee for us to protect and defend you as we fight to obtain your best results.
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.