Best Criminal Lawyer in Wisconsin
TOM GRIEVE
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney Tom Grieve founded Grieve Law, LLC in October of 2013 that now ranks among the largest and most award-winning criminal defense and drunk driving firms in Wisconsin. In 2019, Grieve Law added Divergent Family Law as a new wing to the firm to bring the same focus and proven aggressive strategies to effectively represent clients in family law cases. All of the attorneys at Grieve Law, 20 attorneys and growing across both of the criminal and family law, are proud and honored to be trusted by many thousands of the citizens of Wisconsin to represent them in extraordinarily difficult moments across the state.
Tom Grieve is recognized among the top Milwaukee lawyers. Recently named a top Wisconsin criminal defense attorney, Tom was inducted into the “Wisconsin Rising Star” category by Super Lawyers (a nationally acclaimed attorney rating organization). He was also chosen as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” in Wisconsin by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Tom was also chosen for the “Top Attorneys of Wisconsin” by both Milwaukee Magazine and Madison Magazine.
With an impressive record for dropping charges or reducing multiple felony charges to misdemeanor charges in Wisconsin, the esteemed accolades do not come as a surprise. Whether at trial or negotiating charges outside the courtroom, Tom has produced remarkable results for his clients.
Beyond the courtroom, Tom has been interviewed and appeared in numerous media outlets, ranging from the New York Times, CourtTV, Fox News, Reuters, Washington Post, National Public Radio, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, among many others. He is a frequent Continuing Legal Education course speaker to teach lawyers and judges in developments and the law, both in Wisconsin and nationally. Finally, Tom has also presented across the country, both online and in person, concerning the law and culture to the public.
In addition to speaking engagements, Tom has also contributed to the national conversation in writing on emerging legal topics and has been published in Conceal Carry Magazine and elsewhere on multiple occasions. He also edited the book and contributed legal input on various other publications, including the “Wisconsin Guide for Armed Citizens” on behalf of the National Association of Certified Firearm Instructors.
Tom graduated with a double major in Medieval European history and Theology from Marquette University and went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Marquette University Law School. Tom is a lifelong Wisconsin resident and graduated high school from University School of Milwaukee.
When not in the office, attorney Grieve enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, reading, and playing ice hockey.
See below for additional legal and personal achievements.
Wisconsin Legal Capabilities
- DUI/OWI
- Drug Offenses
- Domestic Violence
- Firearm Rights in Wisconsin
- Sexual Offenses
- Criminal Defense
Christopher J. Cherella
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney Cherella has been in private practice for the majority of his 20+ years as an attorney. He had his own practice from 1996 – 1998 shortly after graduating from law school. Attorney Cherella then spent 3 years as a prosecutor with the City of Milwaukee before returning to private practice as a sole practitioner in 2001. He has been providing effective legal service throughout all Wisconsin counties since restarting his own practice.
Attorney Cherella does not operate a large-scale client organization. Attorney Cherella does his best to keep his client base at a reasonable volume so as to provide each of his clients with the best possible level of legal service and personal care. When you hire Attorney Cherella, you are hiring the person – not the firm. You will not be represented by an associate or any other attorney that you are not familiar with at any point in the process. You will be represented at all times by the lawyer that you paid and hired.
Personal Service For Each Client
When you call Attorney Cherella’s office, you will speak to him about your legal question. If he is not available, he will do his very best to get back in contact with you the very same day. He understands that a person with a criminal problem needs personalized attention. That service is invaluable in today’s legal climate.
Given Attorney Cherella’s tenure as a criminal defense lawyer, he has the knowledge, commitment and the experience necessary to assist you to secure the best possible resolution of your case. Throughout his lengthy legal career, he has practiced all over the state of Wisconsin and in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. He has tried hundreds of cases in the criminal arena. He is familiar with the process in both state and federal court along with what steps must be taken on any particular case to ensure the best result for each of his clients
Aneeq Ahmad
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney Aneeq Ahmad currently manages Ahmad & Associates, LLC, an exclusive Criminal Defense law firm in Milwaukee’s Third Ward district. He graduated from Cornell University for his undergraduate studies and the University of Wisconsin Law School for his law degree. He is currently admitted to practice law in both Wisconsin and Illinois; he is also admitted to practice in the Eastern District of Wisconsin (Federal Court) and is on the panel of appointed Criminal Justice Act attorneys for Federal Criminal cases.
Attorney Ahmad has had numerous felony cases either dismissed or won at trial, including felony drunk driving offenses, drug crimes, firearm charges, and sexual assaults. His representation is based on advocating with integrity and empathy. He was named to SuperLawyers Rising Stars in 2020, the first year he was ever nominated.
He is passionate about defending a client’s right to tell their side of the story and be taken seriously with the dignity and respect every human being deserves – without pre-judgment. He is also determined to put an end to the racism and racial bias that is deeply embedded in the criminal justice system and is an advocate of progressive change to ensure that everyone is treated fairly.
In his spare time, he loves to bike on his Peloton, dance, stretch out on the yoga mat, hang out with his pet cat, take a ride on his motorcycle, or spend a day at the race track.
Areas of Practice
- Criminal Defense
- Sexual Assault
- Child Abuse
- Homicides
- OWI/DUI
- General Crimes
- Federal Crimes
Robert W. Keller
Criminal Lawyer
Robert W. Keller has over 25 years of experience in the area of criminal law. He has represented hundreds — if not thousands — of clients in both state and federal courts throughout the state of Wisconsin. Attorney Keller regularly handles both simple and complicated matters on behalf of his clients, ranging from Operating While Intoxicated to homicide, and every type of case in between.
Attorney Keller was a recipient of the Martin Hanson Award for successfully defending a homicide case and achieving a verdict of Not Guilty. He is recognized as a Super Lawyer by the Wisconsin Super Lawyers publication.
Mr. Keller served as the Racine County Bar President in 2017. He has also served as a Chairperson for the Wisconsin Office of Lawyer Regulation, District 15 Committee to oversee and act upon allegations of Attorney misconduct.
As a criminal defense attorney, Robert W. Keller is currently licensed to practice in all Wisconsin state courts and all federal courts in the Eastern and Western districts of Wisconsin.
Attorney Keller has received a Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbel, as well as the Client Distinction Award.
Mr. Keller’s single and most important goal is to act in the best interest of his client. He puts his clients’ best interests before everything else, and he deals with them honestly and fairly.
Awards
| Award name | Grantor | Date granted |
|---|---|---|
| SuperLawyer | Wisconsin Super Lawyers | 2019 |
| SuperLawyer | Wisconsin Super Lawyers | 2018 |
| Excellence In Service Award | Racine County Bar Association | 2017 |
| Clients Choice Award | AVVO | 2014 |
| Preeminent Rating | Martindale-Hubbell | 2014 |
| Client Distinction Award | Martindale-Hubbell | 2013 |
| Rising Star | Wisconsin Super Lawyers | 2006 |
| Hanson Award – Homicide Acquittal | Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers | 2001 |
Patrick K. Cafferty
Criminal Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges, there is a great deal at stake for you and your family. Make sure your criminal defense lawyer has the experience, skill and professional background to help you get a fair and just outcome. When it comes to working with prosecutors and judges, an attorney with professional credentials can make a significant difference.
Practicing and focusing on criminal defense law since 1994, Patrick Cafferty has earned a listing in Wisconsin Super Lawyers Magazine as a Wisconsin Super Lawyer® from 2008 through 2014. In addition, his reputation for high standards has earned him an AV Distinguished rating by Martindale-Hubbell.
Serving Clients Charged With Criminal Offenses in Southeastern Wisconsin
Mr. Cafferty’s credentials and awards include:
- Graduate of Marquette University Law School
- Member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member of the Wisconsin Association Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Named in Super Lawyers Magazine 2008 – 2022
- Earned the Distinguished Martindale-Hubbell AV* Peer Review Rating
- Named in Best Lawyers in America 2013 Edition for Criminal Defense
- Named in Best Lawyers in America 2014 Edition for Criminal Defense
Mr. Cafferty has developed solid professional relationships and a reputation of being honest with judges and prosecutors throughout Southeast Wisconsin.
Why Choose Criminal Defense Attorney Patrick K. Cafferty?
From offices in Racine, criminal defense lawyer Patrick Cafferty defends the rights of people charged with state and federal criminal offenses throughout Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. Contact the firm to arrange a free initial consultation with an experienced Racine criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after you have been charged or come under investigation for a crime. Many cases are time-sensitive, so it is important to speak with one of our staff right away.
MICHAEL HAYES
Criminal Lawyer
Michael M. Hayes was a founding partner of the Milwaukee law firm of Hayes & Rothstein, 1983-2019.A Milwaukee native, Mr. Hayes earned his Juris Doctor law degree in 1981 from Marquette University Law School, where he was the Lead Articles Editor on the Law Review. During this time, he also served as a Judicial Intern for Wisconsin Court of Appeals Chief Judge John Decker. His undergraduate studies were completed at the University of Notre Dame and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he graduated in 1977. Within 3 years he was listed in Best Lawyers in America after founding what had become the largest consumer Chapter 7 law firm in Wisconsin.
Michael Hayes provides for his extensive network of former and existing clients and their families valuable legal assistance beyond his practice areas. He is always willing to discuss a wide variety of legal concerns, including family law and bankruptcy law questions dating back to his extensive experience over the last 30 years. He can evaluate your situation and provide a referral to a well-respected attorney. His clients consider him a knowledgeable and trusted advisor for legal and practical advice on a wide range of issues.
He aspires to the description of President Harry Truman in the biography by David McCullough: “As much as any president since Lincoln, he brought to the highest office the language and values of the common American people. He held to the old guidelines: work hard, do your best, speak the truth, assume no airs, trust in God, have no fear.”
Bar admissions
- Wisconsin, 1981
- U.S. District Court, Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin, 1981
Education
Marquette University, Juris Doctor, 1981
Law Review Lead Articles Editor
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Bachelor of Science, 1977
University of Notre Dame
Memberships
State Bar of Wisconsin
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Honors and Awards
AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating℠ from Martindale-Hubbell®
Wisconsin SuperLawyer
Seminar Moderator and Presenter at Strategies in Handling OWI Cases in Wisconsin
The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers
Avvo Rating 10.0 out of 10, Superb
Presenter of “Illinois Residents Arrested for OWI in Wisconsin” at 2019 Lake County Annual Bar Ass’n Meeting
Featured speaker at Lorman event Live Webinar, October 29, 2015
Craig Mastantuono
Criminal Lawyer
Craig is well respected and recognized across Wisconsin as an aggressive criminal trial lawyer and effective negotiator. He understands the benefits of positive outcomes for clients and uses a strategic, imaginative approach to defending individuals accused of a crime in Wisconsin.
DISTINCTION AS A WISCONSIN SUPER LAWYER
Craig has earned distinction by being named in the criminal defense category for the Wisconsin Super Lawyers every year from 2005 to 2021. He was also featured in the Top 25 Attorneys in Milwaukee and the Top 50 Attorneys in Wisconsin lists from 2013 to 2020.
He was also voted Best Criminal Lawyer in the Milwaukee Shepherd Express Readers’ Poll in 2012 and 2018, and he was named a Leader in the Law in 2008 by the Wisconsin Law Journal. He earned this honor for his successful constitutional challenge of Wisconsin’s carrying concealed weapons law, as well as for his defense of a 10-year old boy in a high-profile Milwaukee homicide case.
Prior to entering private practice, Craig headed a unit focused on defending drug prosecutions for the Waukesha County trial division of the State Public Defender. He has worked extensively in state and federal courts as well as appearing before Wisconsin Supreme Court, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals and the Federal Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.
DEDICATED CRIMINAL DEFENSE EXPERIENCE
Today, Craig’s practice focuses primarily on representing individuals accused of crime in criminal courts or who are the target of an investigation, as well as crisis management and white collar compliance issues. Craig has litigated cases before the Wisconsin Court of Appeals and the Wisconsin Supreme Court, winning cases before both.
Outside of the courtroom, he applies his experience teaching criminal practice as a faculty member at Marquette University Law School. He is also a member of The American Law Institute, which publishes Restatements of the Law, Principles of the Law, and Model Codes, and whose members have the opportunity to shape the development of existing and emerging areas of law for the public good.
Craig received his law degree from DePaul University of Chicago and his undergraduate degree in Business Administration cum laude from Loyola University of Chicago.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
As the son and grandson of immigrants, Craig is a former President of Wisconsin Hispanic Lawyers Association (WHLA), and currently chairs the WHLA Scholarship Committee for Latino Law Students. Craig is on faculty at Marquette University Law School, where he teaches Criminal Practice with MULS Professor Daniel Blinka. He has received recognition from the Milwaukee Business Journal, which profiled him as a dynamic young business leader in its annual 40 Under Forty edition, and is a frequent expert legal commentator for TV Channel 12 WISN/ABC News Milwaukee.
He is also an appointed Milwaukee County Circuit Court Commissioner for Branch 18, and a mayoral appointee to the Milwaukee Harbor Commission. He’s been published and has provided lectures and presentations extensively on key criminal defense issues.
Michael R. Cohen
Criminal Lawyer
Bar Admissions
Admitted to Wisconsin Bar, 1991
Education
Dartmouth College (B.A. 1988)
University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Law (J.D. 1991)
Memberships
Eau Claire County Bar Association; American Bar Association; State Bar of Wisconsin; Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (WACDL) – Board of Directors; National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL); Wisconsin Supreme Court – Preliminary Review Committee Member (October 2006-September 2009); Board Chairman – Chippewa River Industries; Member of the ACS-CHAL (American Chemical Society – Chemical and Law Division); various local civic organizations.
Practice Areas
- Criminal
- OWI Defense
- Sexual Assault
- Child Sexual Assault
- Violent Crimes
Biography
Having never wanted to do anything else for a career than defend the rights of the accused against the power of the Government, Mr. Cohen has been successfully defending criminal allegations in North and West Central WI for over 30 years. He has successfully defended cases in all levels of the Courts in WI, from the Circuit Court to the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court of our State.
While he still does personally handle all matters of criminal cases, given his caseload and reputation, his primary focus today is on high level felony crimes – sex crimes, Homicide, white-collar crimes, and any other felony crime. His success record in cases involving crimes of a sexual nature is among the best in the State.
He is a trusted and well-respected member of the State criminal defense bar, having been invited to lecture and teach other lawyers at conferences both on the local Bar level, as well as on the State level. As a result of his experience, tenacity and aggressive successful defense of his clients, he has been asked to represent not just ordinary citizens, but also high-level professionals, law enforcement officers, other lawyers, and judges in the courts and in proceedings with their professional licensing organizations.
He was previously invited to serve on the WI Supreme Court’s Professional Review Committee, reviewing ethical complaint’s against other lawyers. He has achieved the highest rating of expertise and ethics by his peers, having been recognized as a Superlawyer in WI, as well as receiving an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell. He has earned awards for his successes in defending sex crimes and homicides by the his State defense attorney association.
He is actively involved in a variety of criminal defense related committees and organizations, on the local level, as well as the State and National level. He is on the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (WACDL), where he is the current President-Elect. He is also on a member of the National College of Drunk Driving defense (NCDD), where he also sits on that organizations Forensic Science Defense committee, and the Driving Under the Influence Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA), where he is a founding member.
Mr. Cohen is also active in his local community where he has served on a variety of Boards of Directors from the local youth soccer association (AYSO) to being a Boy Scout troop scoutmaster, to serving on the Board of his local rotary club, where he is a past-President. Currently he sits on the Board of Sculpture Eau Claire, and Chippewa River Industries (CRI), where he is the Chairman of the Board.
He is a former long-distance runner, having completed full and half marathons, and a long-distance triathlete, having completed both half and full Ironman distance races. He is also a former ski-jumper. Though he no longer races, he still enjoys training regularly.
Now that his two children are grown and out of the house, he and his wife enjoy traveling both in and out of the United States. He is also a proud grandfather that enjoys spending as much time as he can with his grandson.
Wisconsin’s Trusted Shields: Why You Need a Top Criminal Lawyer
Facing criminal charges in Wisconsin’s vibrant cities or rural landscapes can be daunting. The legal system can feel like navigating the intricate corridors of the House on the Rock – fascinating but demanding a skilled guide. Here’s why securing a top-notch criminal lawyer in Wisconsin is crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome:
1. Your Champion in the Wisconsin Justice System:
A skilled criminal lawyer ensures your rights are upheld throughout the legal process:
- Intricate Knowledge of Wisconsin Law: They understand the Wisconsin Statutes and its complexities, ensuring you receive fair treatment and due process according to Wisconsin’s legal framework. (WI.gov https://www.wisconsin.gov/Pages/Home.aspx)
2. Experience Makes a Difference in Wisconsin Courtrooms:
The best criminal lawyers have a proven track record:
- Expertise and Experience in Wisconsin Criminal Defense: Their extensive knowledge and experience in handling Wisconsin criminal cases allow them to navigate the nuances of the law, craft a strong defense strategy, and anticipate the prosecution’s arguments, significantly increasing your chances of success.
3. Building a Strong Defense in Wisconsin:
Top criminal lawyers are meticulous investigators:
- Thorough Case Investigation: A dedicated team will conduct a comprehensive investigation, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and meticulously examining the prosecution’s case for weaknesses or inconsistencies. This detailed analysis forms the foundation of a robust defense strategy specifically tailored to Wisconsin’s laws and procedures.
4. Strategic Options in Wisconsin’s Legal Landscape:
In some cases, negotiation can be advantageous:
- Skilled Negotiation and Plea Bargaining: A skilled criminal lawyer can assess the prosecution’s case and negotiate on your behalf to secure a favorable plea deal, potentially reducing charges or penalties within the Wisconsin legal framework.
5. Courtroom Advocacy: Your Voice in Wisconsin’s Court System:
When litigation becomes necessary:
- Trial-Ready Representation: Having the best criminal lawyer by your side in court is invaluable. They will present your case persuasively, cross-examine witnesses, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and deliver compelling arguments to the judge and jury. Their courtroom experience and persuasive skills are essential for presenting a strong defense.
6. Mitigating the Impact: Beyond Conviction in Wisconsin:
A skilled criminal lawyer fights for you even after a verdict:
- Mitigating Consequences: Even if convicted, a skilled criminal lawyer can work to minimize the impact within the Wisconsin justice system. They can advocate for reduced penalties, alternative sentencing options, or rehabilitation programs that could significantly lessen the repercussions of a conviction.
Remember: Criminal law varies by state. While these points hold true generally, finding a Wisconsin-licensed lawyer experienced in Wisconsin’s specific laws and regulations is crucial for the best possible defense.
Finding the Right Wisconsin Criminal Lawyer
Here are some resources to help you find a top criminal lawyer in Wisconsin:
- Wisconsin State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (https://www.wisbar.org/forPublic/INeedaLawyer/pages/lris.aspx) can connect you with a qualified lawyer in your area.
- Online directories: Legal websites like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell allow you to search for criminal defense lawyers in Wisconsin based on location, experience, and client reviews.
- Word-of-mouth recommendations: Ask friends, family, or trusted professionals for recommendations for criminal defense lawyers in Wisconsin.