Vancouver WA Criminal Defense Attorneys

Nearly 30 years of combined courtroom experience, from attorneys who've worked as prosecutors and public defenders before defending clients like you.

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Dedication

We are available 24/7

Experience

Nearly 30 years of combined criminal defense experience

Insider Knowledge

A former Oregon prosecutor now fights on your side

Trial-Tested

More than 60 trials fought in the courtroom

The VanWa Legal team in downtown Vancouver, Washington

Built By Prosecutors, Now Fighting For You

We're a criminal defense law firm serving Vancouver and Clark County, built by attorneys who've stood on both sides of the courtroom. Before founding VanWa Legal, our attorneys worked as prosecutors and public defenders, which means we know exactly how the state builds a case against you, and exactly where those cases tend to fall apart. Whether you're facing a first time misdemeanor or a serious felony, we handle DUI charges, domestic violence charges, drug charges, assault, burglary, robbery, weapon charges, traffic crimes, and more.

We've handled thousands of cases and tried dozens of jury trials, and we bring that same level of preparation to every case, whether it settles quietly or ends up in front of a jury. Every case starts with a free consultation, so you know exactly what you're facing before you decide anything.

Meet the Team

A Criminal Defense Team for Vancouver and Clark County

Roger Priest, VanWa Legal attorney

Roger Priest

Criminal defense and DUI attorney. Former Oregon prosecutor and Washington public defender. Practicing criminal law since 2009, with approximately 60 jury trials. Leads the firm's felony work.

About Roger Priest
Kevin O'Brien, VanWa Legal attorney

Kevin O'Brien

Criminal defense attorney. Practicing criminal law since 2014. Interned as a prosecutor before becoming a Washington public defender. Focuses on the firm's misdemeanor defense.

About Kevin O'Brien
Vanessa Cavanaugh, VanWa Legal attorney

Vanessa Cavanaugh

Guides clients from the first call to resolution, so nothing falls through the cracks between hearings.

About Vanessa Cavanaugh

Awards and ratings

Avvo Rating — Very Good, Featured Attorney, Criminal Defense

Client Reviews

4.9

Based on 110+ reviews

Expertise — Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Vancouver 2020

What Happens Next

From your first call to your defense plan

Call or send the form

Tell us what happened and what court date is coming up. The consultation is free.

Get a case review

The team reviews the charge, court timing, evidence issues, license concerns, and no-contact order problems.

Understand your options

You get a plain-English explanation of risks, defenses, timelines, and next steps in Clark County.

Build a defense plan

The firm prepares for negotiation, hearings, motions, trial, or another strategy based on the facts of the case.

Contact us

Take the first step today

Free consultation. Available 24/7. We quote a flat fee up front and offer payment plans on most cases. The number we quote is the number you pay, no matter how many hearings your case takes.

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Or Call (360) 281-7314
Gavel and legal scales

4.9 star reviews based on 110+ reviews

What Our Clients Say About Us

I hired Roger to represent my husband when he was arrested on false charges. From the very beginning, Roger was responsive, knowledgeable and willing to take on the case. He was the only one to return my call when I was searching for help. He is very confident in his ability and worked hard to get all the charges dismissed. He is able to be calm in situations where his clients are anything but. I am so grateful for the services provided by Roger. He is very respected in the legal community here in Vancouver. I hope I never need a lawyer again, but if I did, Roger would be my first choice.
RL Rosie L. 2 months ago
I am writing a much overdue review for Roger Priest after he has gone above and beyond while representing me as my lawyer. Last year I found myself facing legal difficulties after my first and only DUI. While the circumstances were incredibly stressful, Roger's involvement in my case made the process straight forward and my case was resolved in a timely manner. Roger is exceptionally proficient in cases like mine and he demonstrates that in and out of the court room. Not only did he walk me through the process but he put my family's concerns at ease by answering all of our questions and making himself available whenever we needed clarification. I was very fortunate to have Roger on my side during that difficult time and would highly recommend his services to anyone that finds themselves in need of legal counsel. Thank you once again, Roger!
CM Carly M. 2 months ago
Called for advice on what turned out to be a scam call. Roger Priest had me at ease in a very timely manner. Thank you!
FA Florence A. 2 months ago
VanWa Legal exceeded my expectations. From the initial consultation to the final court appearance, they were thorough, strategic, and always had my best interests in mind. Their attention to detail and dedication to their clients is unmatched. Highly recommend!
D Deimer 2 months ago
Roger Priest at VanWa Legal has been instrumental in changing my life for the better. He fought for me and won! I'm forever grateful.
BC Becky C 2 months ago
I met Roger at the start of 2025, somehow after I paid for a fender bender that I caused I was hit with a hit and run little did I know when I had a warrant two years after the incident. As of today my case was entirely dismissed without even going to trial. I couldn't be happier with the results and couldn't vouch for a different lawyer. Every time we had a court date, we were the first ones on and promptly the first case handled. Roger Priest is the man- I would highly recommend you give him a call if you are experiencing trouble.
CC Cristian Carter 2 months ago
Had a consultation with Roger priest this morning, paid attention to detail and what he had to say and he was very honest and upforward not to mention he took the time to look up additional information which lead to the best possible news. I thought my life was over and he gave me hope. Thank you Roger I will be hiring you!!! You give people with a bad past who are trying to do good lots of hope! God bless you.
ML Mr Lopez 2 months ago

Areas We Serve

Serving Vancouver and Clark County

VanWa Legal handles criminal defense and DUI matters from our office at 712 W Evergreen Blvd in downtown Vancouver, minutes from the Clark County Courthouse.

FAQ

Common Questions About DUI and Criminal Charges

Is a DUI a misdemeanor or a felony in Washington State?

Most Washington DUIs are gross misdemeanors. A DUI becomes a felony if you have three or more prior offenses within ten years, or a prior conviction for vehicular homicide or vehicular assault while under the influence.

What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

A criminal defense lawyer protects your rights at every stage of a case — reviewing the evidence and how it was gathered, advising you before you speak with police or prosecutors, negotiating with the state, filing motions to suppress or dismiss, and representing you at hearings and trial if the case goes that far.

How much does a DUI attorney cost?

VanWa Legal quotes a flat fee up front, so you know the full cost before you hire us, and we offer payment plans on most cases. The exact fee depends on the charge and whether the case is resolved through negotiation or goes to trial. The initial consultation is free.

What happens if I plead not guilty to a DUI?

Pleading not guilty preserves your options. It gives your attorney time to review the stop, the testing, and the evidence, file any challenges, and negotiate with the prosecutor. Many cases are later reduced or dismissed, and you can still change your plea if a favorable resolution is reached.

How do I get a no-contact order dropped?

Only the court can lift a no-contact order — the protected person cannot simply waive it. Your attorney can request a hearing to modify or terminate the order and present the relevant circumstances to the judge. It is important not to violate the order while it remains in place.

Should I hire a private attorney instead of using a public defender?

Public defenders are capable attorneys, but they often carry heavy caseloads. A private attorney can give your case more individual attention, faster communication, and more focused preparation. The right choice depends on your circumstances — we are happy to talk it through during a free consultation.

Contact us

Speak With A Lawyer Now

Free consultation. Available 24/7. We quote a flat fee up front and offer payment plans on most cases. The number we quote is the number you pay, no matter how many hearings your case takes.

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Or Call (360) 281-7314
The VanWa Legal attorney team