Best Criminal Lawyer in Alaska

Evan Barrickman Anchorage

Criminal Lawyer

Evan was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. He graduated with honors from Dimond High School in the first graduating class of the Japanese Immersion Program. He went to Colorado State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration then returned to Alaska and worked as a field engineer for a large commercial construction company before starting law school.

Evan graduated cum laude from Willamette University College of Law and was a member of Moot Court and Law Review. Evan also received a certificate in Dispute Resolution and was nominated to the Order of the Barristers for his outstanding courtroom advocacy skills. Evan was also active in the Student Bar Association and was Vice-President of his class in his final year of law school.

After law school, Evan returned to his home state of Alaska and opened his own law firm in Anchorage. Evan practices in many areas of law including Criminal Defense, Family Law, Personal Injury and other civil suits. Evan is admitted to practice in both the state and federal courts in Alaska.

When not assisting his clients with their legal needs, Evan spends his time enjoying hunting and fishing in Alaska. Evan also enjoys world travel and studied abroad in Australia while obtaining his undergraduate degree.

MEGHAN

Criminal Lawyer

Meghan is a lifelong Alaskan with her Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Studies. As a paralegal at Collier Law since 2018, Meghan’s areas of expertise involve divorce, dissolution, legal separation, child custody & visitation, child support, guardianship, adoption, domestic violence and other family law related matters as well as criminal defense.

Meghan takes great pride in being able to help others through their often most difficult times. In her off-time she enjoys any and all things that include spending time with her family.

Ben Crittenden

Criminal Lawyer

Ben Crittenden was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. Mr. Crittenden grew up playing hockey and other sports in the area and continues to embrace the beauty and opportunities Alaska has to offer. Mr. Crittenden began his legal career in a large Anchorage law firm. Preferring a more client-oriented practice and wanting to make a difference in people’s lives, Mr. Crittenden later decided to start his own law firm, Law Office of Ben Crittenden, P.C., in 2009.

Since beginning his own practice, Mr. Crittenden relishes the opportunity to spend as much time with his clients and cases as he wants. This makes all the difference in the results he achieves for his clients and the personal satisfaction he gets from practicing law. For this reason, Mr. Crittenden is passionately devoted to advancing and perfecting his trial techniques and communication skills on behalf of injured victims.

Peter R. Ehrhardt

Criminal Lawyer

Peter Ehrhardt, Attorney at Law, graduated from the University of Minnesota law school in 1980. He moved to Alaska that same year and began working for a small personal injury firm in Bethel, Alaska. In 1983, Mr. Ehrhardt moved to Sitka, Alaska, and worked for a small general practice firm there. In 1984, Mr. Ehrhardt moved to Kenai, Alaska, where he resides today.

In 2002, Peter started a Kenai law firm to meet growing demand on the Kenai Peninsula. Since then, the office has expanded to include three local attorneys committed to providing honest, accommodating, and timely service throughout the Kenai Peninsula. Peter continues to fight for his clients’ rights and support the staff to this day.

Eric Derleth

Criminal Lawyer

Born and raised on the Kenai Peninsula, attorney Eric Derleth has spent his entire legal career defending Alaskans against criminal charges and representing them in personal injury cases. He concentrates his practice in these areas so that he can protect the rights of individuals against powerful entities—whether the government or large corporations. Based in Soldotna, Eric represents clients in courts throughout much of Alaska, including Anchorage, Palmer, Wasilla, Juneau, and Fairbanks.

Criminal defense and personal injury law both involve placing a client’s future in the hands of a jury or judge. That is a responsibility Eric takes very seriously. It’s not enough for his clients that he knows the law; he must also immerse himself in the psychology of decision-making and be able to reach the people deciding his their fate. He understands not only how to persuade juries, but how to motivate them to act in his client’s favor. Eric is widely respected for his meticulous preparation and his clear, effective communication of both the facts and the law. As he observes, “I can’t promise my clients that I will win every case. But I can promise that I will outwork the opposition in preparing and presenting every case.”

FRANK SPAULDING

Criminal Lawyer

My name is Frank Spaulding and I grew up in Interior Alaska. Growing up, I quickly became familiar with the many unique aspects of living on the edge of civilization. There is more of some things (nature, space, independence), and less of other things (services, restaurants, traffic). As our remoteness can make obtaining some services difficult, I strive to provide the legal services that the people of Alaska deserve.

I worked as a prosecutor in Seattle immediately after earning my law degree. After my time in Seattle, I returned to Alaska to work in the Fairbanks District Attorney’s Office. My time as a prosecutor provided me with an inside understanding of criminal prosecutions—I understand the priorities of a prosecutor and can assess the strengths and weaknesses of a case from their perspective.

Bradly A. Carlson

Criminal Lawyer

Brad is a skilled advocate with experience in both federal and state court.
He brings diverse experience, dedication, litigation capabilities, and legal knowledge to each case. He is licensed to practice law in both Alaska and Washington. Brad promises to provide cost-effective legal solutions to everyday people, personally serve the firm’s clients, and listen to each client’s needs to find the right solution.

Brad was born in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where he lived with his family until he graduated from St. Cloud State University. Brad started his professional career as an armor officer in the United States Army in 2004. During his time as an active duty armor officer, Brad deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom for twenty-four months over two tours. After serving in Iraq the second time, Brad was given the opportunity to command a tank company at Ft. Hood, Texas. Going to law school and becoming a lawyer had been a lifelong dream for Brad. After command, Brad left the active duty Army to attend law and business school at Texas Tech University.

WALLY TETLOW

Criminal Lawyer

I have been a criminal defense lawyer in Alaska for the last 30 years.  I continue to represent clients facing charges ranging from murder to DUI.  I understand that your case is of the utmost importance to you and your loved ones, and will work tirelessly to obtain the best possible outcome for you.

I have tried cases all over the state, from Fairbanks to Sand Point.  I have argued before the Alaska Court of Appeals and the Alaska Supreme Court and am licensed to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States of America.  I am honored to have been named a “Top Criminal Defense Attorney” by Super Lawyers, and also of my 5-star client rating on Avvo.com.

The Last Frontier’s Legal Landscape: Why You Need a Top-Tier Criminal Lawyer in Alaska 

Facing criminal charges in Alaska, the Land of the Midnight Sun, can feel anything but bright. The legal system, while striving for fairness, can be complex and unforgiving. Here’s why securing a top-tier criminal lawyer in Alaska is crucial for protecting your freedom and achieving the best possible outcome:

1. Unmatched Expertise in Alaska’s Legal Code:

Alaska has its own unique set of criminal codes, statutes, and court decisions. A top-tier criminal lawyer licensed in Alaska possesses in-depth understanding of these nuances, allowing them to:

  • Decode Alaskan Law: They can meticulously analyze your case within the framework of the Alaska Statutes (AS) and interpret key court rulings that may influence the prosecution’s strategy and your potential defenses. 
  • Stay Current on Legal Developments: The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Your lawyer actively monitors changes in Alaska criminal law, ensuring your defense strategy reflects the most up-to-date legal principles and leverages any recent rulings that could benefit your case.
  • Identify Location-Specific Issues: Alaska’s diverse geography may lead to variations in local ordinances or procedures. Your lawyer’s deep understanding of the state’s legal landscape allows them to identify any potential location-specific issues that could impact your case.

2. Building a Strong Case Through Meticulous Investigation:

A top criminal lawyer in Alaska doesn’t wait for the prosecution to make a move:

  • Thorough Case Assessment: They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your case, meticulously analyzing the evidence, witness statements, police reports, and any potential legal issues. They will identify strengths and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and gather evidence to support your defense.

3. Championing Your Rights Under Alaska Law:

Your fundamental rights are paramount:

  • Protecting Your Constitutional Rights: The best criminal attorneys in Alaska are dedicated to protecting your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. They will ensure that your rights, such as the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, and the right to a fair trial, are upheld. They will closely scrutinize the actions of law enforcement officers, ensuring your rights were not violated during the investigation or arrest. (Alaska.gov)

4. Powerful Advocacy in the Courtroom:

Skilled representation can make a significant difference:

  • Trial-Ready Attorneys: The best criminal lawyers in Alaska have extensive courtroom experience, including knowledge of trial strategies, effective presentation skills, and the ability to cross-examine witnesses. They will fight vigorously to defend your rights and interests in the courtroom.

5. Strategic Negotiation for a Favorable Outcome:

Skilled negotiation can be a powerful tool:

  • Expert Negotiation Skills: A competent criminal attorney possesses excellent negotiation skills and can engage in plea bargaining with the prosecution. They will advocate on your behalf, aiming to reduce charges or penalties, and explore alternatives such as diversion programs or probation. This negotiation skill can help minimize the potential consequences of your case.

6. Local Court Familiarity Breeds Confidence:

Understanding the local legal landscape is advantageous:

  • Familiarity with Local Legal Players: Top criminal lawyers who practice extensively in Alaska are familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures. This knowledge can help them anticipate potential strategies and outcomes, providing you with an edge in your defense.

7. Sentencing Advocacy: Mitigating Potential Consequences:

A knowledgeable criminal attorney can still fight for you even after a conviction:

  • Understanding Sentencing Guidelines: In the event of a conviction, a knowledgeable criminal attorney will work to mitigate the consequences during the sentencing phase. They will present mitigating factors, such as your character, personal circumstances, or rehabilitation efforts, to argue for a reduced sentence or alternative sentencing options.

8. Emotional Support and Guidance During a Difficult Time:

The legal process can be emotionally draining:

  • Understanding and Empathy: The best criminal lawyers in Alaska not only provide legal guidance but also offer emotional support. They will explain your options, answer your questions, and offer reassurance, helping you navigate the legal system with confidence.

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