Aggressive, Experienced Criminal Defense Across Western Montana
Montana's Top Criminal Defense Attorney
A conviction can result in jail or prison time, expensive fines, and a permanent criminal record. Don’t leave your future to chance. Call Maldonado Law today at (406) 552-4652 for a free, confidential consultation.
We fight to get you the compensation you deserve
If you’ve been charged with a crime—whether a misdemeanor, felony, or federal offense—your future is on the line. At Maldonado Law, PLLC, we bring over a decade of criminal defense experience to every case. We fight hard to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and secure the best outcome possible.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Montana, you have the constitutional right to legal representation—and you need a defense attorney who will fight for your rights at every stage of the legal process. We represent clients in Missoula, Butte, and Hamilton, MT handling a wide range of cases
Felony charges
Violent crimes
Drug charges
Federal criminal cases
Misdemeanor offenses
Protect Your Rights
Get the Best Criminal Defense in Montana
Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and explain your options.


Whether you’re facing a minor misdemeanor or a serious felony, we’ll build a strong defense, guide you through every step, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t face criminal charges alone. Contact Maldonado Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your freedom.
Understanding Criminal Defense in Montana
Facing Felony Charges in Montana
Felony charges are among the most serious criminal offenses in Montana and carry long-term consequences. Whether you’re facing charges for assault, theft, weapons violations, or other felony-level crimes, the stakes are high—and you need serious legal defense.
Felony Convictions Can Result In: Years in state prison, Thousands in fines and restitution, Long-term probation, Loss of civil rights (firearms, voting, etc.), and a Permanent felony record
Felonies can follow you for life. Get legal help as soon as possible to protect your freedom and future.
Being Charged With a Violent Crime
Violent crime charges can be devastating. Whether you’re facing allegations of assault, domestic violence, robbery, or homicide, these cases often move fast and come with aggressive prosecution.
Maldonado Law will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to protect your freedom. Violent Crime Convictions Can Lead To: Long-term or life imprisonment, Heavy fines and restitution, Loss of firearm rights, A lifelong violent felony record
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Montana are serious. Whether you’re accused of drug possession, trafficking, or manufacturing, the penalties can be life-altering.
At Maldonado Law, we have extensive experience defending against drug charges of all kinds. Attorney Maldonado has handled hundreds of criminal cases and has a proven track record of success using strategic, aggressive defense tactics.
Drug Convictions Can Lead To:
Jail or prison sentences, Heavy fines and court costs, Probation or parole, A lifelong criminal record.
Being Charged With a Misdemeanor
While misdemeanors may seem less serious than felonies, they can still carry lasting consequences—jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent mark on your record.
At Maldonado Law, we take every charge seriously. From DUIs to petty theft, we work to protect your reputation and prevent a minor charge from turning into a major problem. Often, we can negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing. Don’t risk your future by facing a misdemeanor charge alone. Let us help you resolve it with the least impact possible.
Federal Criminal Cases
Federal charges are different from state-level offenses—bigger stakes, more complex investigations, and federal prosecutors with vast resources. Whether you’re facing charges for wire fraud, drug trafficking, or firearm violations, you need experienced federal criminal defense.
At Maldonado Law, we understand how federal cases work and what it takes to fight them. We’ll thoroughly review the evidence, protect your constitutional rights, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation. If you’re under investigation or have been charged with a federal crime, the time to act is now. Contact us for a confidential consultation.
Why Choose Maldonado Law for Criminal Defense?
When you’re facing criminal charges, experience and strategy matter. At Maldonado Law, we offer aggressive, effective legal representation backed by over a decade of criminal law experience. Our clients trust us because:
We’ve handled hundreds of criminal cases with successful outcomes
We build smart, aggressive defense strategies based on your specific case
We provide honest communication and personalized legal guidance
We treat every case—felony or misdemeanor—with the seriousness it deserves
If you’ve been charged with a crime or believe you're under investigation, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner we’re involved, the more options you’ll have.
Waiting is a Risk Not Worth Taking
It's Your Right to be Defended
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Montana, you have the constitutional right to legal representation—and you need a defense attorney who will fight for your rights at every stage of the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with a crime?
Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present, and avoid making statements that could be used against you.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
A: Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, typically punishable by fines or jail time less than one year. Felonies are more serious offenses with harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences.
What if I’m convicted?
Convictions can lead to fines, probation, jail time, or other penalties. Your attorney can help with appeals or sentencing mitigation strategies.
What happens after I’m charged?
You will be arraigned in court, where you’ll hear the charges against you and enter a plea. Then, your case may proceed to negotiation, trial, or dismissal depending on the circumstances.
Do I have the right to an attorney?
Yes, the Sixth Amendment guarantees your right to legal counsel. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.
Can criminal charges be expunged?
Some misdemeanor and certain felony convictions may be eligible for expungement under Montana law. However, this can only be done once, so make sure to pick Maldonado Law so you can rest assured it gets done right.