Best Criminal Lawyers in Milwaukee

Scott N. Burns
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Scott N. Burns

Criminal Lawyer

Scott N. Burns’ practice is devoted to all aspects of real estate and business transactional law. Scott was recognized as a “top attorney” in Milwaukee Magazine Best Lawyers issues (February, 1995, October, 1999, and September, 2003) and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel “Top Lawyers” 2012 edition in the real estate law specialty. He has appeared on both radio and television as a real estate law expert. Scott has also lectured on real estate and construction law at Marquette University Law School. Scott often acts as a court-appointed and private mediator in litigation matters in his area of expertise, particularly involving real estate, contract/business disputes, construction defects and transactional disputes.

Scott graduated from the University of Wisconsin, and from Marquette University Law School. He is a member of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin and American Bar Associations. He is admitted to practice in the Wisconsin and U.S. District Court, both Eastern and Western Districts.

Education:

  • Marquette University Law School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • University of Wisconsin
TomGrieve
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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.

BenVanSeveren web 0837 e1549313066161
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BENJAMIN VAN SEVEREN

Criminal Lawyer

Attorney Benjamin Van Severen has experience handling all types of cases, from misdemeanors and OWI/DUI to serious felonies, including homicide, sexual assault, crimes involving firearms, and drug crimes. Focusing entirely on criminal defense, Mr. Van Severen has an acquittal rate three times the state average.

Attorney Van Severen received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Marquette University in 2010, with majors in Political Science and Criminology, and a minor in Music. He then received his Juris Doctor from Marquette University Law School in 2013. While at Marquette, Attorney Van Severen amassed over 380 hours of pro bono work with the Marquette Volunteer Legal Clinic and the Wisconsin State Public Defender Trial Office in Green Bay.

Immediately upon his graduation from law school, Attorney Van Severen was hired at a local Milwaukee criminal defense firm. From his very first day, he displayed a passion for criminal defense inside the courtroom. His reputation of taking cases to trial has resulted in reduced charges and lower sentences in courts throughout Wisconsin.  Van Severen Law Office has grown to become one of the preeminent criminal defense firms in Wisconsin.

In order to stay up to date on the constantly evolving legal landscape, Attorney Van Severen belongs to the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Milwaukee Bar Association, the Milwaukee Young Lawyers Association, the American Bar Association, the Eastern District of Wisconsin Bar Association, and the State Bar of Wisconsin.

Mindy Nolan
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Mindy Nolan

Criminal Lawyer

Attorney Mindy M. Nolan has been practicing criminal defense for the past nine years and has handled all types of cases ranging from minor misdemeanors and criminal traffic offenses to complex homicides and sexual assaults. 

She believes that every case requires special attention to detail and a strong relationship with her clients. The attorney-client relationship is a sacred bond of trust that she does not take lightly; every case and every client is unique. One of Attorney Nolan’s greatest strengths is her ability to tell her client’s story in a heartfelt and compelling way. In order to fight for you, she gets to know you. 

Attorney Nolan has represented nearly one-thousand clients during her five-year tenure with the Wisconsin State Public Defender. She recently transitioned into private practice where she welcomes giving each client the one-on-one attention that he or she deserves. 

As a graduate of Marquette University Law School and the University of Wisconsin – Madison, Attorney Nolan has a breadth of experience in many aspects of law and life. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and has been working with the Spanish speaking population in various roles for over a decade. She has specialized knowledge in immigration law and a keen understanding of how a criminal conviction may affect one’s immigration status. 

Craig Mastantuono
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Craig Mastantuono

Criminal 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.

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.

cherella e1697448734787
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Christopher J. Cherella

Criminal Lawyer

Christopher J. Cherella, Attorney at Law, is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with his principal office located in Milwaukee, WI. He has experience and success representing those accused with everything from simple traffic infractions to high-level felonies. Like doctors or mechanics, not all attorneys are the same. Some may not be qualified to handle your case, while others may be looking to overcharge you. When you retain Attorney Cherella as your lawyer, you are getting an experienced and skilled Milwaukee criminal defense attorney with proven results.

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.

michael 1
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Michael F. Hart

Criminal Lawyer

Michael F. Hart has practiced in the areas of criminal defense, civil litigation, and personal injury matters for more than 30 years. During that time, he has distinguished himself as a trial lawyer with an imposing courtroom presence. Court TV has identified Michael as one of the state’s most prominent criminal defense attorneys, and he has been recognized by judges and lawyers throughout the state as a Wisconsin Super Lawyer since the award’s inception. He was also recognized by Best Lawyers in America in 2021.

For over three decades, Michael has obtained successful results in a large number of serious felony cases, including homicides, sexual assaults, and drug conspiracies, and has achieved notable results in a variety of white collar cases. Michael’s successes have also included one of the largest defamation awards in state history against a private individual, which included a six-figure punitive damage award.

Michael has successfully represented a wide variety of high-profile clients, including members of the National Basketball Association, National Football League, Major League Baseball, as well as law enforcement officers, physicians, lawyers, and an array of professional and corporate executives. Many of Michael’s most satisfying courtroom victories, however, have come from cases that don’t make the evening news – the cases where hardworking people face the harsh consequences of being investigated and prosecuted by a government with unlimited resources and no mercy.

Stephen Govin
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Stephen Govin

Criminal Lawyer

Attorney Stephen Govin can help you understand the reality of the challenges you face, the most likely outcomes to different potential scenarios, and what can be done to ensure that your rights and your future receive the full protection that you deserve. He is committed to providing his clients with not only an exceptional defense but also peace of mind.

 

Attorney Govin has exceptional experience fighting for those facing everything from a drunk driving charge to homicides in Wisconsin. Whether defending against first-time OWI/DUI charge, a complex drug conspiracy or a homicide, he will thoroughly investigate the facts to build strong cases for his clients. He often works with top experts in the Midwest when challenging evidence collected by police and routinely challenges the constitutionality of search and seizure issues to protect his clients rights.

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The Cream City’s Steadfast Shield: Why You Need a Top-Tier Criminal Defense Lawyer in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a vibrant city steeped in history, industry, and cultural charm, pulsates with energy. Yet, even in the most dynamic environments, legal troubles can arise. If you face criminal charges, navigating the complexities of the justice system alone can feel daunting. Here’s where a top-tier criminal defense lawyer in Milwaukee steps in, becoming your unwavering advocate and fierce protector throughout the legal process. This comprehensive guide explores the immense benefits of retaining a skilled criminal defense attorney who will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome in your case.

Understanding Criminal Charges and Your Rights in Wisconsin

Criminal charges in Wisconsin range from misdemeanors, carrying less severe penalties, to felonies, with potentially life-altering consequences. A knowledgeable Milwaukee criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the specific charges you face and your fundamental rights under Wisconsin law, including:

  • The Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent during any police questioning and refuse to answer incriminating questions. Your lawyer will guide you on invoking this right effectively.
  • The Right to an Attorney: You have the right to legal representation throughout your case. Your lawyer will ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.
  • The Right to a Fair Trial: You have the right to a fair and impartial trial before a jury of your peers. Your lawyer will work diligently to prepare a strong defense and present compelling evidence on your behalf.
  • Presumption of Innocence: You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Your lawyer will challenge the prosecution’s case and fight to uphold this presumption.

Building a Strong Defense Strategy with a Top Milwaukee Criminal Defense Lawyer

When facing criminal charges, a well-crafted defense strategy is crucial. Here’s how a top-tier Milwaukee criminal defense lawyer will go the extra mile for you:

  • Investigating Your Case Thoroughly: Your lawyer will conduct a meticulous investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and scrutinizing police reports. This proactive approach can uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and identify potential defense strategies.
  • Negotiating with Prosecutors on Your Behalf: Experienced criminal defense lawyers have established relationships with prosecutors in Milwaukee. They can leverage these connections to negotiate favorable plea bargains that may lead to reduced charges, probation, or alternative sentencing options.
  • Prepping You for Court Appearances: Facing court proceedings can be intimidating. Your lawyer will prepare you for all stages of your case, including depositions, hearings, and trial, providing clear guidance and ensuring you understand court procedures and answer questions confidently.
  • Representing You in Court with Skill and Experience: A courtroom can be a complex battleground. Your lawyer will utilize their trial experience and legal knowledge to present the strongest possible defense, cross-examine witnesses, and argue forcefully on your behalf.
  • Protecting Your Future: Criminal charges can have lasting repercussions. Your lawyer will fight to minimize the impact on your life, advocating for expungement of charges (if eligible) or pursuing options that prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration.
  • Understanding Wisconsin Criminal Law Updates: Wisconsin criminal laws may evolve over time. Your lawyer stays current on legal changes, ensuring your defense strategy reflects the latest legal landscape.

Beyond Legal Expertise: Qualities of a Top-Tier Milwaukee Criminal Defense Lawyer

Not all criminal defense attorneys are created equal. Here’s what sets the best Milwaukee criminal defense lawyers apart:

  • Extensive Experience in Wisconsin Criminal Law: Deep knowledge of Wisconsin criminal statutes, court procedures, and the nuances of the Milwaukee criminal justice system is crucial. Look for a lawyer with a proven track record of success handling cases similar to yours in Milwaukee County.
  • Focus on Criminal Defense: Lawyers specializing in criminal defense possess the in-depth understanding of criminal law, courtroom tactics, and the intricacies of plea negotiations that are critical for your case.
  • Understanding of Criminal Justice System: A strong understanding of how the Milwaukee criminal justice system functions, from police investigations to prosecutorial strategies, allows your lawyer to anticipate challenges and develop effective counterarguments.
  • Empathy and Understanding: Facing criminal charges can be stressful and emotionally draining. Your lawyer should approach your case with compassion, providing emotional support and clear communication throughout the process.
  • Competitive Fees and Flexible Payment Structures: Many criminal defense attorneys offer flexible payment structures, recognizing the financial strain criminal charges can create. Explore options that fit your financial circumstances.

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