Reno & Las Vegas Criminal Defense Attorneys

Nevada's Top Criminal Defense Attorneys

If you’re facing life-changing criminal charges, you need a defense attorney with courtroom experience, an understanding of what the prosecutor is thinking, and a reputation that can back it up.

Types of Cases:

  • DUI Defense
  • Traffic Cases
  • Drug Charges
  • Battery Charges
  • Category A Felonies
  • Drug Trafficking

Call today to schedule to speak to one of our top criminal defense attorneys. Carlson & Work is Northern Nevada’s #1 rated and reviewed law firm.

Speak with an Attorney Now!

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Need a Nevada Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime or DUI, you should consider all options before selecting a criminal defense or DUI attorney in Reno, Nevada. We understand you are likely under an incredible amount of stress during these difficult times. Allow our firm to offer some peace of mind.

As a former criminal prosecutor, Attorney Mathew Work understands how to approach any kind of criminal case. Whether the case is a misdemeanor or a category A felony, Attorney Mathew Work has the experience needed to aggressively defend your case. He has seen firsthand the difference the right criminal defense attorney can make.

As a former criminal prosecutor, Attorney Mathew Work understands how to approach any kind of criminal case. Whether the case is a misdemeanor or a category A felony, Attorney Mathew Work has the experience needed to aggressively defend your case. Attorney Mathew Work has seen first-hand the difference the right criminal defense attorney can make.

When you retain Carlson & Work you will have a dedicated attorney by your side.

Defense Options in Nevada

First and foremost, we work hard and look for all legal defenses available. We work side-by-side with our clients to make sure we have a complete understanding of all the facts and circumstances that led up to an arrest. Next, we use every resource available to posture our client’s character and reputation.

  • Motion to Suppress Evidence
  • Motion to Suppress Testimony
  • Physical Evidence
  • Stored Digital Evidence
  • Physical and Mental Examinations
  • Private Investigators
  • Direct and Cross-Examination

If you have been charged with a crime, you should consider all options before selecting a criminal defense attorney. We understand you are likely under an incredible amount of stress during these difficult times. Allow our firm to offer some peace of mind.

Client Testimonials

Excellent
Carlson & Work5.0
Based on 169 reviews
janet F.
1 year ago
I can't say enough about Kathleen Mangan and her team. I had a very difficult divorce situation which included needing a protection order and from the first moment I contacted Kathleen and her team, my anxiety was reduced. Not only did it take a fraction of the time I expected it to, the communication I received the entire time was top notch. She empowered me to be strong and do what was necessary to cross the finish line successfully while at the same time ensuring my safety. If you need an attorney who will ensure your best interests are at the forefront, who will take the time to educate you along the way on what your responsibility is and who truly has the expertise needed to successfully navigate the judicial system requirements effectively, then you want Kathleen and her team. Worth every penny and they will be on my list of my things to be thankful for every year from this point on! I wish they had a scale that went higher than 5 star here - Kathleen and her team more than exceeded my expectations and I would give them a million stars!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Janet! You were such a joy to work with and the entire staff adores you!
Ashley G.
2 years ago
Long and tough battle but I had a winning firm in my corner. Hands down the best divorce lawyers in Reno.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your experience with our law firm.
Xóchitl G.
2 years ago
I can’t think this group of people enough. Going through divorce was one of the most challenging. Of my life, and yet they got me through it! We accomplished everything we set out to and more.
Luis Enrique M.
2 years ago
Going through a divorce and custody battle is obviously the last thing anyone wants to be dealing with. Thankfully, I found Lauren. She handled my divorce and visitation case with kindness and compassion. Thank you all so much!
Nayeli O.
2 years ago
I recently went through a family law case that involved a two-year long divorce. Within three months, a two year divorce battle was resolved. Once I retained this firm. They are to the point and treated my custody case with the attention I would have expected!
Davion Y.
5 days ago
I want to take a moment out and thank Rebecca Carlson for the hard work and loyalty that she showed my family for the last year. We had hard days and we had easy days, but in the end, you stayed by my side and fought with me throughout the entire case. You didn’t give up on my family or me and in the end we did it! Thank you, Rebecca. My family and I could not be happier.
Response from the owner:We are really pleased to hear this. Thanks for taking the time to leave us a review. We appreciate you.
Mohammed D.
1 week ago
Carlson & Work delivered exactly what they promised. Great communication, excellent craftsmanship, and competitive pricing. I’m very happy with their work and would gladly use them again.
Jaida A.
1 week ago
Smooth and stress-free experience with Carlson & Work. The team was punctual, polite, and completed the project efficiently. I would recommend them to anyone looking for quality service.
Phillip C.
1 month ago
10 out of 10 in every way. I want to thank the entire team from Kellie to Rebecca and Mira and Nichole. You all did such an amazing job on my case, representing me and fighting for my family. Thank you all for the amazing work and I will be sure to tell friends and family about my amazing experience.
Response from the owner:Hi Phil - We are glad to have this all wrapped up. Happy to help. We really appreciate you and your kind words.
Rosa S.
1 month ago
Mathew, Rebecca and Kathleen all assisted on my case at one point with ultimately Rebecca going to court with me. I can tell you from firsthand experience, this attorney knows what she is doing! Watching the other attorneys in court, compared to her, made it obvious that she simply in a league of her own. Don’t think twice, call Carlson Work.
Rashad A.
2 months ago
Very impressed with Carlson & Work. They paid attention to details and made sure everything was done right. Great customer service from start to finish.
Ricardo B.
2 months ago
Carlson & Work exceeded my expectations. The staff was friendly, responsive, and completed the job on time. I will definitely use their services again.
Itzel L.
2 months ago
Great service and great results from Carlson & Work. The team was punctual, courteous, and very professional. They clearly care about customer satisfaction.
Iris T.
2 months ago
I’m extremely satisfied with the service from Carlson & Work. They were professional, transparent, and very skilled. It’s rare to find a company this dependable. Five stars without hesitation.
Kristen P.
6 months ago
Super professional and such an amazing experience!!! 100% recommend!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words!
Milly B.
6 months ago
Extremely professional
Response from the owner:Thank you, Milly
Caroline S.
6 months ago
Matt is professional, reliable, and very easy to work with. He communicates clearly, takes time to listen, and is highly respected for the way he handles his work. It’s clear he cares about people and goes above and beyond to help. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words, Caroline!
Harrison H.
6 months ago
Very professional
Mike L.
11 months ago
Mathew Work has represented my business with honesty, determination, and real professionalism. He’s straightforward, no BS, and always focused on getting results. You can count on him to tell it like it is and to fight hard for your interests. If you want a smart, reliable attorney who gets the job done, Mathew is your guy.
Response from the owner:It's our pleasure. Thank you for your comments!
abhi A.
1 year ago
I recently consulted with Mr. Mathew Work regarding a legal matter and was thoroughly impressed by his professionalism and integrity. He attentively listened to my concerns, provided clear and honest advice, and demonstrated a genuine commitment to my best interests. His approach was both compassionate and insightful, making complex legal concepts easy to understand. I highly recommend Mr. Work to anyone seeking knowledgeable and trustworthy legal counsel. His integrity is outstanding
Response from the owner:This means a lot. Thank you for taking the time to share.
Brian C.
2 years ago
These are real people that know the ins and outs of the legal system to put families and regular people like me at ease. It’s effortless to be professional in this occupation, it’s harder to be personal, and Carlson & Work provide just that- legal knowledge and care for a community. Thanks Team, it’s forever appreciated.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Brian!
Oscar D.
2 years ago
Carlson & Work treat their clients, como familia. Their thoughtful approach of bringing complex issues to ease, is more than appreciated.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mr. Delgado!
Alexander W.
2 years ago
If I could give 6 stars I would! I’m very grateful for the help I received from Carlson & Work. I appreciate their attention to detail and willingness to listen to what I expected and needed. I will definitely use them again. Great work from a local firm!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the awesome review!
Casey G.
2 years ago
Great firm! Great lawyers!! You won’t go wrong hiring Carlson and Work!
Response from the owner:Much appreciated!
Pablo Emilio Mendoza R.
2 years ago
No one wants to deal with an ugly legal case but if you have to, this is the team you need!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Pablo. It’s an honor.
Emilio M.
2 years ago
Mathew and his team handled my case with class and determination. I would highly suggest reaching out if you're in Reno looking for a top notch team.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much!
ARJAN ESTRADA N.
2 years ago
In a small town like Reno, it's hard to find a team of attorneys as skilled and that which would rival a major market firm, Carlson & Work is the exception.
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
スロー
2 years ago
There's Carlson & Work, then the rest. They're just not in the same league.
Response from the owner:❤️❤️❤️
Hugo O.
2 years ago
Five stars doesn't come close to how much I owe Rebekah, but I would proudly recommend her to any friends or family looking for a fantastic family law attorney.
Michel M.
2 years ago
The entire team was patient, thoughtful and kind throughout a very difficult case. I was represented by Kathleen, she was honest and fair throughout the whole process.
Daniela G.
2 years ago
Without a doubt, the best law firm in Nevada. Plain and simple.
Kimberly A.
2 years ago
Carlson and Work is absolutely top notch in everything they do, communication, preparation, honesty, everything about the way they operate their firm is top flight and refreshing. If you’re in a bind, give the a ring!
Fer A.
2 years ago
If you need someone in your corner, during the most challenging parts of your life, Mathew Work is the kind of guy you hope to have in your foxhole with you. He will fight tooth and nail for you like family and speak to you with bluntness lost in these times. He is simply the best.
Ana A.
2 years ago
I can’t thank Mathew, Rebecca and the team for everything they have accomplished in such a short amount of time, in a couple months, I went from hopeless to so hopeful about what my future and my family’s future holds!
Jacqueline
2 years ago
I had the opportunity to work with Rebecca Carlson and Nichole in my custody case. They were compassionate, professional, and always told me how it was, even when the news was difficult. I really respect their humble approach to dealing with clients and their willingness to explain things multiple times to make sure I understood exactly what was happening throughout the entire process of my Litigation, if you’re in a bind, these are your people!
Saira M.
2 years ago
The entire team at Carlson Work was communicative, kind, and very honest throughout my entire time with them. I was represented by a previous firm, and this firm was able to accomplish in four months with the other firm, couldn’t accomplish in nearly 2 years regarding my custody case five stars isn’t enough to express my gratitude to the team.
STEPHANY JACQUELINE SÁNCHEZ M.
2 years ago
Carlson & Work is made up of kind people with hearts of gold who are willing to go to battle for their clients! I am so grateful they still build business on principles!
Paul A.
2 years ago
Matthew Work is a lawyer who's not just great at his job, but he's also super kind-hearted. He really listens and cares, making you feel supported and not just like another case. It's like talking to a friend who knows all about law. He makes the whole legal thing feel less scary and more human. It's awesome to have a lawyer who's not only smart but also genuinely cares about you.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the kind words.
MENDOZA OSEGUERA SAYURI Y.
2 years ago
The entire support staff was on top of communication and made working with the attorneys streamline. I really appreciated that I was always kept up to speed and given option to collaborate with the progress of the case. I can’t recommend this team enough. Five stars.
Argut S.
2 years ago
I went through a very long child custody battle with Rebecca. She never gave up on me, never lost hope, and in the end I was awarded primary physical custody. Thanks to her hard work.

Criminal Defense FAQs

Showing up in court without any legal counsel for a criminal defense case will not be good for your odds of getting your charges decreased or cleared. Having an experienced lawyer or attorney by your side will enable you to get fair and just treatment according to your rights.

The classification of criminal cases is based on the penalties they are associated with. A misdemeanor has a jail sentence to be served up to twelve months. A felony, on the other hand, has a minimum of at least a one-year prison sentence.

The state of Nevada does not process record expungements, but the state does process record seals. The process of sealing your Nevada criminal record varies from the different counties. First you must obtain a copy for your criminal history record in Nevada. Then contact the court where the arrest was processed. Then finally complete the forms necessary to file a petition for the criminal record seal. This has become a necessity to pursue this since employers often do criminal background checks and this can hinder you from moving forward with your life.

Misdemeanor offenses can be punishable for up to 12 months of jail time. Working with a seasoned Reno attorney, will give you the best possible chance of avoiding the maximum jail sentence or avoid being convicted of the crime.

In a drug charge, plea bargaining is a viable option. Choosing this option means having to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges and have the punishment or sentence minimized. This can apply if the defendant is charged with three drug charges from possession, selling, and transport of drugs. The prosecutor may then accept the plea bargain by only accepting the charge for possession as long as the defendant pleads guilty for the crime.

Moving violations can either be charged with an infraction or misdemeanor charge. Your lawyer will be able to negotiate the moving violation, depending on the facts specific to your case, to a non-moving violation. This would benefit you by not getting any points counted against your driver’s license and possibly not have to go to traffic school.

When people fail to pass a test, most would already plead guilty to drunk driving. But these people do not realize that there is an opportunity to fight the DUI charge and challenge the current evidence gathered. Even if you think the prosecutor has a solid case against you, it is still a good idea to talk to an experienced DUI attorney before deciding to plead guilty.

OUR APPROACH

First and foremost, we work hard and look for all legal defenses available. We work side-by-side with our clients to make sure we have a complete understanding of all the facts and circumstances that led up to an arrest. Next, we use every resource available to posture our client’s character and reputation.

Common Defense Options

  • Motion to Suppress Evidence
  • Motion to Suppress Testimony
  • Physical Evidence
  • Stored Digital Evidence
  • Physical and Mental Examinations
  • Private Investigators
  • Direct and Cross-Examination
Personal Injury, Battery & Criminal defense attorneys in Reno
Reno Personal Injury, Criminal Defense & DUI Attorneys

DUI

Few understand DUI laws and defenses as well as Carlson & Work. When you retain Carlson & Work, your DUI case will be handled by one of Nevada’s highest-rated DUI Defense Attorneys, recently earning a perfect 10 Avvo Rating. Managing Partner and Founder, Mathew Work has a long record of successfully practicing criminal defense law, stemming from his years as a Criminal Prosecutor in Reno.

Nevada Laws have become increasingly hard on drinking and driving. Nevada DUI laws are complex. You need an experienced DUI attorney who knows exactly what to look for when defending your case. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Mathew Work understands exactly what the state must prove. This inside information can mean the difference in defending your case.

Recently, the DUI laws in Nevada have expanded dramatically. New laws have been adopted to include criminal punishment for driving while under the influence of marijuana and even prescription drugs. You need the experience and reputation of a top DUI defense attorney by your side.

Common DUI Defense

  • Suppress Evidence Obtained from an Unlawful Stop
  • Challenge Field Sobriety Testing
  • Request Evidence of Machine Calibration
  • Violation of Miranda Rights
  • Challenge Unauthorized Blood or Breath Tests
  • Motion To Suppress Evidence

BATTERY & DOMESTIC BATTERY

At Carlson & Work, we understand that no case is black and white. In Nevada, Battery and Domestic Battery charges must be taken seriously. Domestic Battery laws require any allegation of battery to be investigated by an officer. Often, the District Attorney will pursue charges even if an alleged victim reaches out to the state and requests that charges not be filed.

The outcome of a domestic battery charge can have long-term impacts. In Nevada, a conviction of domestic battery could mean you are prevented from being employed by many organizations, you may no longer own a firearm, not to mention the impacts on your personal reputations and networking opportunities.

As one of Nevada’s top-rated defense attorneys, Mathew Work will work tirelessly to defend you, your future and your reputation.

Common Domestic Battery Defense

  • Recanting Witness
  • Self Defense
  • Accident
  • Physical Evidence
  • Cross-Examination
  • Rebuttal and Eye Witnesses
  • Digital Evidence
  • Exposing Motives to Lie
Criminal defense attorneys in Reno, NV

Criminal Defense Blogs

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Please call our office at 775-386-2226 or submit the information below to schedule a consultation. We have consultations available today.

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