Aggressive Criminal Defense in Helena, Montana
Helena’s Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Helena or anywhere in Lewis and Clark County, you need a defense attorney who knows the local courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement. At Maldonado Law, PLLC, we bring over a decade of experience fighting criminal charges—from misdemeanors to major felonies.
Helena's Top Criminal Defense Attorney
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 Lewis and Clark County, 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.
Protect Your Rights
Get the Best Criminal Defense in Montana
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 across Western Montana handling a wide range of cases, and your case is no exception. Contact Us Today to learn more about what your options are.
If you’ve been arrested in Helena—whether near Carroll College, downtown, or on I-15—you need to act fast. Law enforcement in Helena often files charges quickly, and early mistakes can hurt your case. Don’t wait—contact us now so we can protect your rights and start building your defense.
Don’t face criminal charges alone. Contact Maldonado Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your freedom.
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. No case is ever the same, and we take that to heart. Treating every case differently and building a defense that can represent you and your situation specifically.
Facing Felony Charges in Helena
Felony charges in Helena are prosecuted in Lewis and Clark County District Court. Whether you’re facing charges for theft, assault, or drug-related crimes, we know the prosecutors, judges, and procedures—and we’ll put that knowledge to work to defend your freedom.
Being Charged With a Violent Crime
Violent crime charges, including domestic assault and aggravated assault, are taken seriously in Helena and are often pursued aggressively by prosecutors. If you’re being investigated or have been arrested, we’ll work quickly to examine the evidence, challenge any rights violations, and defend your name in court.
Drug Charges
Drug-related arrests in Helena—including those involving meth, opioids, marijuana, or prescription meds—can carry serious consequences. We’ve successfully defended clients arrested on Lincoln Road, Montana Avenue, and near East Helena, and we’ll look for any mistakes in the investigation or search that could lead to dismissed or reduced charges.
Being Charged With a Misdemeanor
Helena’s Municipal Court handles many misdemeanor cases—often involving shoplifting, trespassing, traffic offenses, or public intoxication. These charges may seem minor, but they can follow you on background checks for years. We work hard to resolve these cases quickly and cleanly, with as little impact on your life as possible.
Federal Criminal Cases
If you’re under federal investigation or charged with a federal crime in Helena, your case will likely be handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana. These are complex cases—our team knows how to navigate federal courts and protect your rights against serious charges.
Helena’s legal community is tight-knit. Knowing how prosecutors approach plea deals, what judges expect in court, and how to handle pre-trial issues can make all the difference. We have experience in every court in Helena and will give you the strategic edge you need. Criminal cases in Helena are typically handled in Helena Municipal Court, Lewis and Clark County Justice Court, or the First Judicial District Court depending on the charge. Our team is familiar with each court and the procedures they follow, which helps us build effective, localized defense strategies.
Waiting is a Risk Not Worth Taking
Charged in Helena? Don’t Face It Alone.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Helena, 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 in Helena?
Don’t talk to law enforcement or prosecutors without legal representation. Whether you were arrested by the Helena Police Department, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office, or a federal agency, call a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Where will my criminal case go to court in Helena?
Most misdemeanor cases are handled in Helena Municipal Court or Lewis and Clark County Justice Court, while felonies are prosecuted in District Court. Our firm has experience in all three.
Can I avoid jail for a first-time misdemeanor in Helena?
Often, yes. First-time offenders may qualify for deferred sentencing, probation, or other alternatives to jail. We’ll help you explore every option for keeping a conviction off your record.
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 need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?
Even if you think you’ll plead guilty, having a lawyer can help negotiate a better deal, reduce charges, or protect you from unexpected consequences. Never enter a plea without legal guidance. You can learn more about your rights and What Are My Rights If I’m Arrested in Montana?
Do I Have to Talk to Police Without a Lawyer?
Do Not Self Incriminate Know Your Rights. “You have the right to remain silent” is no joke, and “Anything you say Can and Will be Help Against You.” and You do NOT have to answer any questions after arrest, except for providing identification (name, address). You can—and should—say: “I want to speak with my lawyer” at any time, providing your ID has fulfilled everything you need to do for an officer. You can earn more here on our criminal insight : Do I Have to Talk to Police Without a Lawyer?
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. View our Criminal Expungement Page to learn more