If your loved one has been accused of a crime, you may be feeling very worried and confused about what to do next. Being charged with a crime is serious and can result in some very serious consequences if you are convicted.
To help you out we've provided a list of the top Ottawa criminal lawyers to help you with your case.
When it comes to finding the best criminal lawyer for your case, there are a few important things to consider. First and foremost, it’s important to find a lawyer who you can trust.
This means that the lawyer will have an understanding of the law and will be able to represent you ethically and fairly.
Additionally, find a lawyer with experience in your specific legal situation. This will ensure that you receive the best possible legal representation.
Here are a few tips:
- Check the lawyer’s history. Make sure they’ve been practicing law in Ontario for at least 10 years. This will give you a good idea of their experience and whether they will be able to help with the case.
- Check their representation rates. Make sure to find out how often they have won cases against the government or other defendants. This will give you an idea of their ability to win on a regular basis.
- Ask friends and family members if they have any negative experiences with the lawyer. This will help you to form an opinion about them and whether or not they would recommend them to others.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Ottawa?
Criminal defense lawyers in Ottawa can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 an hour on average, but courtroom experience, time practicing, and other factors may affect these costs.
If the price of your criminal lawyer is a concern for you, then contact the law firm you want to work with to get a full understanding of the likely cost of representation of your specific case. No one case costs the same as another.
Best Criminal Lawyers in Ottawa

1. Celine Dostaler Criminal Defence Lawyer
Address: 200 Elgin St #901, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L5, Canada
Website: https://www.celinedostaler.ca/
Phone: +16138638595
Client Review
I was so happy I called Celine. She is very knowledgeable, and immediately made me understand what was happening, what I should expect and how we could fight the charges against me. I felt comfortable speaking with her, and knew that she was being honest about my case. Thanks again for all your help.

2. Shore Johnston Hyslop Day LLP
Address: 200 Elgin St Suite 800, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L5, Canada
Website: https://www.sjhdlaw.ca/
Phone: +16132337747
Client Review
I recently hired Michael Johnston to represent me in court and handle my criminal case. From start to finish, Mr. Johnston demonstrated exceptional professionalism and left zero doubt in my mind him and his team have achieved mastery in their craft. Throughout all the angst and pressure, Mr. Johnston always took the time out of his busy schedule to answer all questions and settle my nerves with his comforting confidence. Mr. Johnston and his team are true professionals, and were able to secure results I didn't think were possible. I would HIGHLY recommend this team to anyone, you'd be in the best of hands. Can't thank him enough. -Brad

3. Brett McGarry Criminal Law
Address: 116 Lisgar St Suite 300, Ottawa, ON K2P 0C2, Canada
Website: https://www.mcgarrylaw.ca/
Phone: +16138848576
Client Review
If I ever need a lawyer again, I know who my go to is! Brett McGarry has helped me out on NUMEROUS occasions, never letting me down. His prices are the best around as well. I’m forever grateful that I stumbled onto his contact information. He’s done nothing but professional, hard work for very, very competitive pricing. Brett was able to relieve me from a serious, sticky situation. He was very responsive as well and made sure I was extremely well taken care of. All this while he has the best pricing in the city without a doubt! Don’t believe me? Give the other lawyers a call

4. Brandon Crawford
Address: 200 Elgin St Suite 600, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L5, Canada
Website: https://edelsonlaw.ca/team/brandon-crawford/
Phone: +16135640006
Client Review
I highly recommend Brandon Crawford as I was facing some pretty serious charges requiring 2.5 years of jail time. With hard work and intuition as well as knowledge of the judicial system Brandon was able to help advise and guide me to a point we were able to reduce that to a 1 year conditional sentence which comprised of 6 months house arrest and 3 months of curfew and the remainder on probationary terms. It was a great accomplishment on his part and I am extremely happy with the outcome of the proceedings. Throughout the course of my experience with Brandon he showed knowledge and insight into my criminal matters and showed great communication skills in court to address them. This resulted in a verdict I view as a best case scenario.

5. Frouhar Law
Address: 342A Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M5, Canada
Website: http://www.frouharlaw.com/
Phone: +16132382000
Client Review
Matthew and his team had really stepped up and came through for my son when he needed it the most and saved him. I would strongly recommend Frouhar law as they do really care and will not give up on you. Thank you again Matthew and your team from Marcus and myself.
Is a Criminal Defencs Attorney Better Than a Public Defender?
Hiring a defense attorney will provide you with the best available defenses against current or pending charges.
Legal fees are not the only cost you should consider when hiring a criminal lawyer, as there is also a serious human cost to consider.
If you are convicted of a crime, then you will need an attorney on your side to fight for you and provide you with clear, concise defense.
While it is possible to work with a public defender, it is likely not your best option. The benefits of working with a public defender, aside from the cost savings, is that they tend to have experience with a wide range of crimes and a good report with the prosecutors and judges.
However, that’s not always the case, and you don’t get to choose your public defender. The one who gets your case could be brand new, have hundreds of other cases, or simply have no experience in the type of crime you are charged with.
Keep in mind, too, that even the best public defender is a government employee. While they are there to give you the best possible defense, it is the best defense they are capable of and not the best defense available.
That brings us to the end of our list of the best Criminal Lawyers in Ottawa.
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