Criminal Defense
Our Missoula Criminal Defense Attorneys Fight To Protect Your Rights And Freedom
Being accused of a crime and facing criminal charges is overwhelming. Our lawyers at Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C., founded in Missoula in 1959, have represented more than 7,500 clients throughout Montana. Our firm is affiliated with The National Trial Lawyers and Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. If you or someone you love has been arrested or facing charges for a crime, our criminal defense lawyers will passionately defend your rights and work to preserve your freedom.
Criminal Defense For Misdemeanors, Felonies And Violent Crimes
Criminal charges can range in severity from misdemeanors or felonies. No matter how minor or serious the charges are against you, our criminal defense attorneys customize a defense strategy tailored to the facts and circumstances of your case. We represent clients accused of the following crimes:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI)
- Drug possession, distribution and trafficking
- Sex offenses, sexual assault and rape
- Trespassing, theft and burglary
- Assault and criminal endangerment
- Homicide and attempted homicide
We represent clients who have been accused of crimes against property, like theft, or crimes of violence, like assault. No matter what crimes you’ve been accused of committing, we will prepare an aggressive defense on your behalf.
What Is The Difference Between A Criminal Defense Attorney And A Public Defender?
Anyone who is accused of a crime has the right to an attorney. In the state of Montana, if you cannot afford an attorney, a public defender will be appointed on your behalf. In order to be eligible for a public defender, you will have to prove that you meet the qualifications and that your income does not exceed a certain threshold.
Public defenders often have a large caseload. To manage their heavy caseload, they might try to steer you towards a plea bargain offered by the prosecutor to avoid prolonging the case or going to trial. Due to this caseload, it is also difficult for public defenders to take calls or make themselves available for their clients. A private criminal defense attorney will be able to provide you with personalized service and a customized legal strategy.
Charged with a crime?
Talk to an experienced defense attorney today.
Why Work With A Criminal Defense Attorney?
Our Missoula defense attorneys will only negotiate a plea bargain on your behalf if we truly believe that it is in your best interests. Also, we are not afraid to go to trial if necessary on your behalf. We prioritize personal attention and fast communication. Our attorneys will keep you informed about the status of your case from the first call to the conclusion of your case.
A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You Avoid Penalties
Penalties for a felony charge can include prison time of a year or more. Even misdemeanor charges can still include jail time of up to one year. Any criminal charge can result in the loss of your rights, costly fines and other penalties that negatively impact your future. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you build a strong defense to attack the state’s evidence against you and help you avoid the most serious charges and penalties.
A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You Avoid A Criminal Record
A criminal record could haunt you long after you pay your fines and complete your prison sentence. A conviction on your criminal record can make it harder to find a job or a place to live. If you are convicted of certain sex crimes, you may also be required to register as a sex offender.
Protect Your Rights And Schedule A Free Consultation With A Criminal Defense Attorney
Even if you have been charged with a crime, you still have rights. A defense attorney can ensure that your rights are protected throughout the entire process. Our criminal defense attorneys have decades of experience and intimately understand local and statewide criminal laws.
To schedule a free consultation, call our office at 406-272-4299 or send us an email using our online form. We look forward to telling you more about how we can help you fight the charges you are facing.
Meet Our Attorneys
Contact Us
Get a Free Consultation
"*" indicates required fields
Practice Areas
Contact Form
"*" indicates required fields
Frequently Asked Questions
We represent clients facing both misdemeanors and felonies, including but not limited to:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
- Drug offenses (possession, distribution, trafficking)
- Sex crimes (sexual assault, rape)
- Theft, burglary, and trespassing
- Assault and criminal endangerment
- Homicide and attempted homicide
A public defender is a court-appointed attorney for those who cannot afford a private lawyer and must meet certain income requirements. However, public defenders often have large caseloads, which can impact their availability and approach. A private criminal defense attorney offers personalized attention, tailored legal strategies, and greater availability.
Hiring a private defense attorney offers:
- Customized legal strategy
- Personalized service
- Strong communication
- A willingness to take your case to trial if necessary
- Focus on minimizing or avoiding serious penalties and a criminal record
Penalties vary by charge but may include:
- Jail time (up to 1 year for misdemeanors)
- Prison time (1 year or more for felonies)
- Fines
- Probation
- Loss of rights (e.g., firearm ownership, voting)
- Mandatory sex offender registration (for certain crimes)
Yes. A skilled defense attorney can build a strong case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate plea deals, or fight for a dismissal—all of which can help prevent a conviction and keep your record clean.
Yes, we offer free initial consultations. Call us at 406-812-7634 or send us an email using our online contact form to schedule yours.
Our firm was founded in 1959 and has represented over 7,500 clients across Montana. We are affiliated with The National Trial Lawyers and the Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Clients consistently highlight our:
- Professionalism and dedication
- Prompt case resolution
- Respectful and compassionate service
- Willingness to go the extra mile
Visit our testimonials section for more feedback from previous clients.
We are based in Missoula, Montana, and serve clients across the state.
To begin your defense, schedule your free consultation by calling 406-812-7634 or contacting us online.