1. Bugbee Law Office, P.S.
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 30 years experience, former prosecutor, and AV Preeminent rating
Practice Areas: DUI/DWI, drug charges, assault, domestic violence, theft, sex crimes, white collar crimes
Background: At Bugbee Law Office, P.S., the firm is committed to providing exceptional legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges in Spokane, Washington. Led by Defense Attorney Chris Bugbee, a former prosecutor with 30 years of experience, the firm offers strategic and personalized defense strategies to protect clients’ rights and future. The firm is AV Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell and holds a 10.0 Superb rating on Avvo, reflecting dedication to client satisfaction and legal proficiency. With a background as a former prosecutor, Chris Bugbee possesses unique insights into the prosecution’s strategies, allowing for a more robust defense approach. He has handled nearly 200 jury cases. He is a Member of The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers and voted 10 Best for client satisfaction by American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys.
Location: Spokane/Boise area (serves Idaho)
Contact: (509) 337-5082 | https://bugbeelaw.com/
Consultation: Free case evaluation available
2. Schofield & Young
Focus Area: Criminal defense and DUI with 10+ years experience and proven trial record
Practice Areas: DUI, theft, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, sex crimes, white collar crimes
Background: Experienced Idaho criminal attorneys and Boise DUI lawyers with a free consultation. The firm has 10+ years defending clients in Ada County and Canyon County. Your Case Can Be Won – Take your case to trial! The attorneys are experienced trial attorneys with a record of success. Idaho DUI laws can be complex and filled with red tape. It is important that clients understand the charges against them and what their legal rights are. DUI is not a minor violation; Idaho treats DUI charges very seriously. If you or a loved one have been charged with a crime in Idaho, the firm wants to fight for you. It is vital that you secure skilled representation as soon as possible. The system moves quickly. Client satisfaction is the first priority. In order to ensure that the firm can give each and every client full attention and passion, they limit the amount of cases taken on.
Location: Boise, Idaho (serves Ada County, Canyon County, and surrounding areas)
Contact: (208) 344-0128 | https://www.youridattorney.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available 24/7
3. Bublitz Law, P.C.
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 90% not-guilty rate and former prosecutor/military background
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, misdemeanors, felonies
Background: For years, the criminal defense attorneys in Boise at Bublitz Law, P.C. have helped countless individuals in Idaho protect their rights and their future against criminal accusations. Attorney Bublitz has a 90 percent not-guilty rate, and the Boise criminal lawyer is prepared to bring that reputation and experience to your case. As a former prosecutor, Gerald R. Bublitz has insight into the other side of the equation and knows when and how to negotiate for reduced charges. As a former soldier in the military, he also knows how to stay calm under pressure and keep his sights trained on clients’ interests. The firm practices in both state and federal courts and has experience defending clients from a wide range of accusations. The firm is honored to have appeared in national publications for their work.
Location: Boise, Idaho
Contact: (208) 286-2111 | https://www.bublitzlawfirm.com/
Consultation: Consultation available
4. Cox Law Firm
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 20+ years experience and jury trial success record
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, violent crimes
Background: At the Cox Law Firm, the Boise criminal defense attorneys have been helping clients successfully resolve criminal defense matters for more than two decades. The firm provides personal attention, honest and direct representation, and a record of jury trial success that works to clients’ advantage. The sterling track record in the Idaho trial courts works to clients’ benefit. The earlier you get in touch with the firm, the greater range of opportunities you’ll have for reducing your exposure to punishment, especially if you turn to the attorneys before formal charges have been filed against you. Jon Cox’s well-earned reputation for uncovering and attacking the weaknesses in the government’s case, whether it be a constitutional or factual based defense, gives clients an additional advantage. The firm approaches criminal law with this goal in mind: provide honest communication always and aggressive litigation when needed.
Location: The Chase Bank Building, 199 N. Capitol Blvd., Suite 601, Boise, ID 83702
Contact: (208) 287-2008 | https://coxlawboise.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
5. The Boise Law Firm, PLLC
Focus Area: Criminal defense with decades of experience from bond hearings to pardons and parole
Practice Areas: Felonies, misdemeanors, burglary, robbery, theft, assault, drug crimes, DUI
Background: There is no greater legal jeopardy than criminal charges, and The Boise Law Firm, PLLC, with offices in Boise and Meridian, Idaho, will build the strongest possible defense for you. If you are an Idaho resident facing a criminal charge, you may be intimidated or overwhelmed, but prompt, decisive action is always your chance when it comes to criminal defense. The Boise Law Firm, PLLC has been providing smart, effective representation for clients accused of various crimes for decades. From bond hearings to pardons and parole, the firm works hard to protect clients’ freedom and reputation. The state of Idaho defines burglary as entering any property with the intent to commit theft or any felony, and those convicted face one to 10 years in prison. The firm has experience protecting the futures of clients wrongly accused of crimes like this.
Location: 410 South Orchard Street, Suite 184, Boise, Idaho 83705 and 2484 North Stokesberry Place, Suite 100, Meridian, Idaho 83646
Contact: (208) 336-1145 | https://www.boiseattorney.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
Criminal Defense Laws in Idaho
Felony Classifications
Idaho classifies crimes into felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions:
Felonies: Crimes drawing fines greater than $1,000 or prison terms exceeding six months. Idaho allows capital punishment for first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping unless the victim is liberated unharmed. Felony burglary carries 1-10 years in prison. Robbery carries up to life imprisonment. Drug trafficking carries mandatory minimum sentences.
Misdemeanors: Offenses with a maximum sentence of six months in jail or a $1,000 fine or both.
Infractions: Violations resulting in penalties of $300 or less.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Idaho does not have formal misdemeanor classes like some states. Standard misdemeanors carry maximum 6 months jail and/or $1,000 fine. Specific offenses may have different maximums defined by statute.
Expungement and Sealing
Idaho has limited expungement options:
Expungement: Generally not available for convictions in Idaho. Idaho does not have a traditional expungement statute for criminal convictions.
Record Sealing: Some juvenile records may be sealed. Certain drug court records may be sealed upon successful completion.
Dismissals: If charges are dismissed or you are acquitted, you may petition to have arrest records expunged.
DUI Laws
Idaho DUI applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .02% under 21). First offense is a misdemeanor with up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine, 90-180 day license suspension, and possible ignition interlock device. Second offense within 10 years is a misdemeanor with 10 days to 1 year jail, $2,000 fine, and 1-year license suspension. Third offense within 10 years is a felony with 1-10 years prison, $5,000 fine, and 1-5 year license suspension. Idaho has implied consent; refusal results in automatic license suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Boise?
Criminal cases in Boise are handled by several courts depending on the offense. Ada County Magistrate Court handles misdemeanors, infractions, and felony preliminary hearings. Ada County District Court handles felony trials and appeals from Magistrate Court. Federal criminal cases are handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho. Idaho also has specialty courts including Drug Court, Mental Health Court, and Veterans Court that offer treatment-based alternatives for qualifying offenders. Having a Boise criminal defense attorney familiar with these court systems, judges, and prosecutors provides an advantage in navigating your case.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Idaho?
Idaho has strict drug laws. Possession of marijuana, even small amounts, remains a crime in Idaho (unlike neighboring states). Possession of less than 3 oz. of marijuana is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year jail and $1,000 fine. Possession of 3 oz. or more of marijuana is a felony with up to 5 years prison and $10,000 fine. Possession of controlled substances like methamphetamine, cocaine, or heroin is a felony with up to 7 years prison and $15,000 fine. Trafficking charges carry mandatory minimum sentences. A Boise criminal defense attorney can evaluate defenses and negotiate for treatment alternatives.
What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor in Idaho?
In Idaho, the distinction between felonies and misdemeanors is based on potential punishment. Felonies are crimes punishable by death, imprisonment in state prison (more than 1 year), or fines exceeding $1,000. Misdemeanors are crimes punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and/or up to $1,000 fine. Infractions are minor violations punishable by fines of $300 or less with no jail time. Some offenses can be charged as either felonies or misdemeanors depending on circumstances. A felony conviction has more severe long-term consequences including loss of voting rights, firearm rights, and professional licenses.
Does Idaho offer diversion programs for criminal charges?
Idaho offers limited diversion programs for qualifying defendants. Drug Court provides treatment-based alternatives for non-violent drug offenders. Mental Health Court addresses defendants with mental health issues contributing to criminal behavior. Veterans Treatment Court serves veterans with service-related issues. Withheld Judgment allows the court to withhold judgment of conviction during probation; upon successful completion, the case is dismissed. These programs vary by county and eligibility. A Boise criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and advocate for treatment alternatives.
Can I get my Idaho criminal record cleared?
Idaho has very limited options for clearing criminal records. Unlike many states, Idaho does not have a general expungement statute for convictions. However, if you received a Withheld Judgment and successfully completed probation, the case was dismissed and you may be able to have the record sealed. If charges were dismissed or you were acquitted, you may petition to expunge the arrest record. Some juvenile records may be sealed. Recent legislation has expanded some record-clearing options, but Idaho remains more restrictive than many states. A Boise criminal defense attorney can evaluate your options and advise on the best strategy.