Dedication
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4.9 out of 5 stars Based on 110+ reviews
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When it is time to fight, we fight to win!
We are available 24/7
Nearly 30 years of combined criminal defense experience
A former Oregon prosecutor now fights on your side
More than 60 trials fought in the courtroom
When a DUI arrest or criminal accusation happens in Vancouver, the first court date and related deadlines can arrive quickly. VanWa Legal PLLC represents clients throughout Vancouver in DUI, domestic violence, misdemeanor, felony, and other criminal matters. From our office on West Evergreen Boulevard in downtown Vancouver, our attorneys bring experience as former prosecutors and public defenders to cases across the local court system.
The City of Vancouver prosecutes misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses in Clark County District Court. Felony matters may proceed in Clark County Superior Court, while qualifying cases may involve specialty or diversion programs. We help clients identify the court and agency involved, understand release conditions and deadlines, review the evidence, and prepare for negotiations, hearings, or trial.
Our approach is built around clear communication and practical preparation. We offer free consultations, flat-fee representation, and flexible payment plans on many cases. If you are facing a criminal charge in Vancouver, contact VanWa Legal PLLC to discuss your situation and the next steps.
Practice areas
DUI cases move fast. Court dates, license deadlines, and breath or blood test questions all arrive within days of the arrest. Our Vancouver DUI lawyers defend first-offense and repeat charges throughout Clark County.
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Tests & evidence
From domestic violence, assault, and drug charges to theft, burglary, and no-contact order violations, VanWa Legal defends misdemeanors and felonies across Southwest Washington. We also help clients restore firearm rights and clear old convictions.
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Clean your record
What Happens Next
Tell us what happened and what court date is coming up. The consultation is free.
The team reviews the charge, court timing, evidence issues, license concerns, and no-contact order problems.
You receive clear guidance about the risks, defenses, deadlines, and next steps that may apply to your Vancouver case.
The firm prepares for negotiation, hearings, motions, trial, or another strategy based on the facts of the case.
Contact us
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.
Meet the Team
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
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
Guides clients from the first call to resolution, so nothing falls through the cracks between hearings.
About Vanessa Cavanaugh4.9 star reviews based on 110+ reviews
Blog
Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a DUI Attorney: How to Choose the Right DUI Lawyer for Your Defense Facing a DUI charge can be disorienting, and choosing the right attorney often determines whether your case ends in dismissal, reduced charges, or conviction. This guide gives a practical checklist of essential
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The Key Factors in Finding the Best DUI Lawyer Finding the best DUI lawyer, such as a DUI attorney in Vancouver wa, can be daunting when faced with legal challenges that impact your future. This article outlines the key qualities—including expertise in Priest Criminal Defense—
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When you find yourself looking at the stark walls of a courtroom, the stress and anxiety can be overwhelming. According to the United States Department of Justice, about 95% of people facing a criminal charge in federal court were represented by a defense lawyer in 2019. The
Read articleAreas We Serve
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
The City of Vancouver prosecutes misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses in Clark County District Court. Felony cases may proceed in Clark County Superior Court, and qualifying matters may involve specialty or diversion programs. Your citation, summons, or charging documents identify the court where you must appear.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.