How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in California? 2025

Criminal charges can lead to many stresses and challenges. Besides the prospect of fines and jail time, many defendants worry about their ability to pay for an attorney. Many will ask, “How much does a criminal lawyer cost in California?” Legal costs are determined by a wide range of factors, including the time and resources your lawyer puts into your case, among others.

Severity of the Charges and the Complexity of the Case

One of the main factors that determine what your legal representation will ultimately cost is the severity of the charges and the complexity of your case. While misdemeanor charges are still serious offenses that can lead to confinement in jail, they generally require fewer court hearings and less work than felony cases.

Felony charges can lead to serious consequences for a defendant, and criminal defendants are well aware of this fact. When an attorney takes on a felony case, they often commit considerable resources and time to it. Regardless of whether an attorney is defending against a misdemeanor or a felony, the complexity of the case can determine what the final bill ends up being.

The Attorney’s Experience and Reputation

When attorneys are fresh out of law school, they often charge lower fees to drum up business. As they win cases and build their reputations, they often increase their fees accordingly. The experience and reputation of your attorney can significantly influence how much you end up paying in court. While hiring an experienced attorney may lead to higher short-term costs, the benefits could well outweigh that initial investment.

Flat Fees vs. Hourly Billing

Criminal defense attorneys in California typically charge either flat fees or hourly rates. Attorneys are more likely to charge a flat fee for straightforward cases, like misdemeanors. For flat fee arrangements, the fee is paid upfront, and there is no expectation that the client pays additional fees until the case is resolved.

Other attorneys may bill by the hour, especially if the case is complex. Under the billable hour system, lawyers often require an upfront payment, called a retainer. The retainer is billed every month until it is depleted. At that point, the defendant is typically required to pay another retainer.

Trial vs. Plea Deal Negotiations

One factor that can significantly determine how much you pay for a criminal defense attorney is whether the case goes to trial or is resolved through a plea deal. Prosecutors often make offers, called plea deals, in return for an admission of guilt. If a defendant takes that offer, the case is settled once the terms of the plea agreement are fulfilled.

There may be times when a defendant, under the advice of their attorney, decides that a trial is the ideal route to clear their name. A trial requires considerable time and resources for an attorney, and it can also extend the time a case takes to resolve.

Additional Legal Costs and Court Fees

There are legal costs beyond what your attorney charges. These could include, among others:

• Court filing fees
• Testimony from special witnesses, who charge for their time
• Private investigators
• Bail costs

Some attorneys include these expenses as part of their legal fees, while others expect their clients to pay them. Consulting your attorney early on can let you know how these fees work.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in California?

A: How much a criminal defense lawyer costs is determined by several factors, such as the case’s complexity, the attorney’s experience, and whether the case goes to trial. Fees can range from flat rates for minor cases to hourly billing or retainers for more serious charges. A reputable attorney will always be upfront about their fees and any other costs for your case before you hire them.

Q: Can an Attorney Save Me Money in the Long Term?

A: An attorney can save you considerable money in the long term if you consider the consequences of a conviction. Even after your sentence is served, having a criminal record can make finding gainful employment challenging. An attorney can work to have your criminal charges dropped or reduced. A favorable plea bargain agreement can allow you to stay out of jail so you can continue with your life.

Q: What Is the Average Retainer Fee for a Criminal Lawyer?

A: Retainer fees for criminal defense lawyers depend on the severity of the charges and the anticipated work involved. More complex cases require higher retainers, while misdemeanor cases may have lower upfront costs. Since fees vary widely, speaking directly with an attorney is critical for determining the potential costs of their legal representation.

Q: Does It Cost Money to Ask a Lawyer If You Have a Case?

A: Some law firms do not charge for a case assessment, while others may charge a consultation fee. It depends on the firm’s policies and the nature of the case. If a consultation fee applies, it is usually credited toward legal services if the attorney takes on the case. Checking with the law firm beforehand can clarify their consultation policies.

Q: What Are Reasonable Attorney Fees in California?

A: Reasonable attorney fees depend on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of work required. Fees may be structured as hourly rates, flat fees, or retainers. While costs vary, a skilled defense attorney can explain their pricing options during a consultation, based on the specifics of the case.

Schedule Your Criminal Defense Consultation Today

The quality of your legal representation can determine whether you face serious penalties after a conviction or avoid those consequences. Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys has represented defendants for more than 20 years. We understand the stress you are facing, so we can work hard to achieve a favorable resolution to your case.

Once we represent you in court, we can assert your rights and update you about the progress of your case. We can review the evidence used against you to find weaknesses and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. To learn how we can fight your charges, contact our office to schedule your criminal defense consultation.

About The Author

Ernest Lee

Attorney Ernest Lee, Esq., is the founder of Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys in San Diego, California, specializing in personal injury, criminal defense, and consumer protection. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Law in 1999 and has been licensed to practice law in California since December 2001. Attorney Lee has been recognized as a Super Lawyer" by Super Lawyers magazine annually since 2021, an honor awarded to the top 5% of attorneys in San Diego County.Education: Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Law, 1999. Professional Associations: Member of the State Bar of California since December 2001. Experience: Founder of Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys, focusing on personal injury, criminal defense, and consumer protection; recognized as a "Super Lawyer" since 2021.

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