Idaho Falls
Criminal Defense Attorney
114+ Jury Trials | Free Consultation | Jail Visits Available
Why Hire Our Local Criminal Defense Law Firm in Idaho Falls
Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming. In Bonneville County, local prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement follow specific procedures that affect how your case moves forward. An Idaho Falls criminal defense attorney familiar with these courtrooms understands the process and what to expect at each stage.
Browning Law's criminal defense lawyers in Idaho Falls represent clients across Eastern and Central Idaho.
- David L. Brown has experience as both a Deputy Public Defender in Bonneville County and a Deputy Prosecutor in Jefferson and Teton Counties.
- Allen Browning has tried more than 114 cases to juries in Idaho state and federal courts.
- Stephen Carpenter assists Allen Browning on all criminal cases tried to juries and has over 13 years of experience.
Criminal Cases We Handle in Idaho Falls
We represent clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges across East Idaho, including:
If your charge is not listed, it is still worth reaching out. We handle a wide range of criminal matters in Idaho state and federal courts.
DUI Defense in Idaho Falls
A DUI arrest in Idaho can move quickly. Potential penalties include license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, fines, and possible jail time, even for a first offense. More serious cases can lead to felony charges.
DUI cases often come down to how evidence was collected and handled. Field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and the initial traffic stop can be challenged if proper procedures were not followed.
If you have been arrested for DUI, do not discuss your case with anyone before consulting an attorney. Getting an attorney involved early gives you more options.
David L. Brown, Allen Browning, and Stephen Carpenter have handled DUI cases throughout Eastern Idaho, including a unanimous acquittal in a felony DUI trial in 2021.
Drug Crimes Defense in Eastern Idaho
Drug charges can range from simple misdemeanor possession to felony trafficking. The exact charge depends on the facts, including the amount involved and how the evidence was obtained.
Motions to Suppress Evidence
Many cases involve searches of vehicles, homes, or individuals. If law enforcement did not have legal grounds for the search, the evidence may be challenged.
We handle:
- Possession of controlled substances
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Drug trafficking
- Prescription drug-related charges
- Paraphernalia offenses
We start by reviewing how the investigation and arrest were handled, looking for any legal issues or weaknesses in the state's case.
Assault, Violent Crimes, and Domestic Violence Defense in Idaho Falls
Violent crime charges can escalate quickly and result in serious consequences. In some cases, charges are based on limited or conflicting information.
We review reports, body camera footage, and witness statements. When appropriate, we seek reduced charges or dismissal. If needed, we prepare for trial.
Domestic violence cases often include no-contact orders and additional legal requirements. We make sure you understand these conditions and how they affect your case.
Our team has obtained acquittals in serious felony cases, including domestic battery, attempted strangulation, aggravated battery, and aggravated battery on a police officer.
Federal Criminal Defense in Idaho Falls
Federal cases follow different procedures and involve stricter sentencing guidelines. Investigations are often more extensive, and the stakes are higher.
We handle:
- Federal fraud charges
- Federal drug charges
- Federal and state illegal pornography charges
- Identity theft, embezzlement, and other financial crimes
Getting legal guidance early is especially important in federal cases, particularly when dealing with investigators or considering cooperation.
Theft, Property Crimes, and Juvenile Defense in Idaho Falls
Theft charges in Idaho range from petty theft misdemeanors to grand theft felonies. The value of property, prior criminal history, and circumstances of the alleged offense all play a role in how charges are filed.
In juvenile cases, there may be alternatives that help protect a young person's future. Diversion programs, withheld judgments, and record sealing may be available depending on the situation.
Looking at these options early can make a significant difference in how the case plays out.
Sex Crimes and Weapons Charges in Idaho Falls
Sex crime allegations carry severe penalties and long-term consequences, including life in prison. These cases often depend on witness testimony and digital evidence, which must be carefully reviewed and challenged when appropriate.
Approximately 8% of all alleged sex crimes are false accusations. Whether the charges against you are true (in which case negotiation of an appropriate plea agreement is advised) or false (in which case a careful evaluation of the evidence against you and marshalling of evidence for trial is key), you need a very experienced attorney to defend you.
Weapons charges depend on factors like prior convictions, the type of weapon involved, and where the incident took place. We handle both state and federal weapons cases and take privacy concerns seriously throughout the process.
How We Build Your Defense
Every case starts with the facts. Here is how our law firm approaches your defense:
Reviewing arrest reports and body camera footage
Requesting full discovery from the prosecution
Analyzing evidence for inconsistencies or legal issues
Filing motions to suppress or dismiss when appropriate
Negotiating when it makes sense for your situation
Preparing thoroughly for trial when needed
If a fair resolution is not reached, we will prepare to proceed to trial.
Case Results in Idaho Criminal Courts
Recent outcomes include:
Felony manslaughter charge dismissed
Felony battery and attempted strangulation charges dismissed
Felony grand theft charge dismissed
Unanimous acquittal in a felony DUI case — our client was witnessed driving off the road, stumbling down the street drinking a Mike's Harder Lemonade, and when approached by officers, failed all field sobriety tests and had a blood alcohol content of .21
Unanimous acquittal in felony grand theft and trafficking charges
Our law firm has also secured not guilty verdicts in a range of serious felony cases. View all case results.
Criminal Defense Fees and Representation
Criminal law cases require an upfront fee arrangement and are not handled on a contingency basis. This is one of the key differences between our criminal defense and personal injury practice areas.
We offer:
- FREE INITIAL CONSULTATIONS — you have nothing to lose by calling first
- Flat-fee representation — you know exactly what you will be paying for criminal defense services
Choosing the Right Defense Attorney
Before hiring an attorney, it is worth asking:
- How many jury trials have you handled?
- Have you worked on cases like mine in Idaho courts?
- What is your honest assessment of my situation?
At Browning Law, our criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to your being treated fairly and with respect.
Criminal Defense Services by City
We provide criminal defense legal services throughout Idaho. Our office in Idaho Falls serves clients across Eastern Idaho, Central Idaho, and statewide.
Idaho Falls
Bonneville County
Criminal defense attorney in Idaho Falls →
Pocatello
Bannock County
Criminal defense attorney in Pocatello →
Twin Falls
Twin Falls County
Criminal defense attorney in Twin Falls →
Burley
Cassia County
Criminal defense attorney in Burley →
Blackfoot
Bingham County
Criminal defense attorney in Blackfoot →
If you are searching for a criminal law attorney near me in Eastern Idaho, Browning Law's Idaho Falls office is ready to help.
Service Area Map
Personal injury cases: statewide • Criminal defense: highlighted counties
Frequently Asked Questions
About criminal defense in Idaho Falls
When should I contact a criminal defense attorney? +
Contact an attorney as soon as you become aware of an investigation or after an arrest. Getting legal guidance early can affect how your case unfolds. Contact Browning Law for a free consultation.
What should I do if I am arrested? +
Remain calm. You have the right to remain silent — use it. Do not answer questions and request an attorney immediately. Do not try to explain yourself or provide context without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony? +
Misdemeanors carry lighter penalties, up to one year in jail. Felonies can result in prison time and long-term consequences including loss of rights. Both require experienced legal representation.
How much does criminal defense cost? +
Costs vary depending on the case. Allen Browning will tell you exactly what the charge will be to handle your case. Most of the time, our clients are looking for a favorable plea agreement. In the event you desire a trial instead of a plea agreement, there is a specific additional charge for days spent in trial. Unlike personal injury cases, criminal defense is not contingency-based.
Can charges be reduced or dismissed? +
In some cases, yes. We can challenge evidence, file suppression motions, and negotiate with prosecutors. Outcomes depend on the facts and the strength of the evidence.
How long does a case take? +
Misdemeanor cases may resolve quickly, while felony cases often take several months or longer. Federal cases tend to take more time. We keep you updated throughout the process.
Do I need a lawyer for a DUI? +
Yes. DUI charges carry serious consequences and should ALWAYS be handled with legal representation. Field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results can be challenged if procedures were not followed properly.
What happens with federal charges? +
Federal cases involve different procedures, stricter sentencing guidelines, and require a defense strategy tailored to federal court. Getting legal guidance early is especially important.
Related Resources
Explore More Criminal Defense Resources
Your Defense Starts Here
Criminal charges carry serious consequences. The decisions you make early in the process matter, and having the right attorney gives you the best possible outcome.
Browning Law provides criminal defense representation in Idaho Falls and throughout Eastern and Central Idaho. Free consultation. No obligation.
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Jail visits available