Philadelphia's criminal justice system is unlike any other in Pennsylvania and arguably unlike any in the country. The city operates under a progressive prosecution model that DA Larry Krasner has built since 2018 — declining to prosecute certain low-level offenses, diverting defendants to treatment programs, and pursuing shorter sentences even for some violent crimes. That policy framework exists in tension with Philadelphia's ongoing gun violence crisis, which has made firearms cases the most politically charged category in the city's courts. The Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas processes tens of thousands of criminal cases annually. The federal Eastern District of Pennsylvania, headquartered at the James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse, handles drug trafficking, gun cases, fraud, and public corruption.
Whether you are facing a drug charge at the Criminal Justice Center on Filbert Street, a federal firearms indictment in the Eastern District, or a white-collar investigation by the FBI's Philadelphia field office, the firms below have the courtroom experience and strategic understanding of Philadelphia's evolving prosecution culture to defend your rights effectively.
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Key Takeaways: Criminal Defense Lawyers in Philadelphia
- 1 Raiser & Kenniff is our #1-ranked criminal defense firm for Philadelphia in 2026 — their former-prosecutor backgrounds and AV Preeminent rating make them effective advocates in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
- 2 DA Larry Krasner's progressive prosecution policies have reshaped Philadelphia criminal defense — certain low-level drug and property offenses are declined for prosecution or diverted, while gun and violent crime cases face aggressive prosecution.
- 3 Gun violence cases dominate Philadelphia's criminal docket, with firearms charges prosecuted aggressively under both state law and federal statutes through the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
- 4 The Eastern District of Pennsylvania handles major drug trafficking, public corruption, and white-collar fraud cases — it is one of the most active federal districts for financial crime prosecution.
- 5 Philadelphia's Accelerated Misdemeanor Program (AMP), Drug Court, and other diversion programs provide genuine alternatives to incarceration for eligible defendants, but navigating eligibility requires experienced local counsel.
Best Criminal Defense Lawyers & Firms in Philadelphia
1. Raiser & Kenniff
Min. Business Debt
No minimum
Avg. Fees
Case-dependent
Resolution Timeline
Varies by charge
Raiser & Kenniff leads our Philadelphia rankings because their former-prosecutor backgrounds give them direct insight into how the Philadelphia DA's office builds cases — including the progressive prosecution policies that have reshaped charging decisions since 2018. Their team handles everything from drug and gun charges at the Criminal Justice Center to federal white-collar cases in the Eastern District. Their documented record of acquittals, charge reductions, and dismissals, combined with 24/7 emergency arrest response, makes them the top choice for Philadelphia defendants.
Pros
- Former Manhattan prosecutors bring insider knowledge of how the state builds its case
- Handle the full spectrum of criminal charges from misdemeanors to federal RICO indictments
- Four New York offices with 24/7 emergency arrest response
- AV Preeminent rated with a documented track record of acquittals and dismissals
Cons
- Primary offices concentrated in New York — remote representation for out-of-state clients
- Premium pricing reflects the caliber of former-prosecutor defense
2. The Cochran Firm
Min. Business Debt
No minimum
Avg. Fees
Case-dependent
Resolution Timeline
Varies by charge
The Cochran Firm earns #2 for Philadelphia with their regional presence and deep attorney bench. In a city where gun violence cases, drug charges, and violent crime prosecutions generate enormous caseloads, the Cochran Firm's resource depth allows complex cases to receive multi-attorney attention. Their experience defending high-profile criminal cases across the Northeast and their understanding of Philadelphia's unique prosecution culture make them a strong choice for serious felony defense.
Pros
- 40+ offices across the United States provide genuine local presence in most major metros
- Founded by Johnnie Cochran — the firm carries a legacy of landmark criminal defense victories
- Handles everything from DUI and drug charges to homicide and federal white-collar cases
- Deep bench of attorneys allows complex cases to receive multi-lawyer attention
Cons
- Quality of representation can vary between independently operated regional offices
- High-profile brand means higher fee expectations in some markets
3. Spodek Law Group
Min. Business Debt
No minimum
Avg. Fees
Consultation-based
Resolution Timeline
Varies by charge
Spodek Law Group ranks #3 for Philadelphia with their aggressive federal defense expertise. The Eastern District of Pennsylvania is one of the most active federal courts for drug trafficking, financial fraud, public corruption, and gun cases. Spodek's experience defending complex federal matters — including RICO conspiracies, securities fraud, and multi-defendant drug cases — makes them the specialist choice for defendants facing federal indictments in Philadelphia.
Pros
- Aggressive litigation strategy built for high-stakes federal criminal defense
- NYC headquarters with direct access to federal courts in the Southern and Eastern Districts
- Experience defending complex financial crimes, fraud, and conspiracy charges
- Rapid-response team for emergency arraignments, bail hearings, and grand jury matters
Cons
- Federal case focus means less emphasis on routine state misdemeanor matters
- Primarily serves the NYC metro area for in-person representation
4. Varghese Summersett
Min. Business Debt
No minimum
Avg. Fees
Case-dependent
Resolution Timeline
Varies by charge
Varghese Summersett rounds out our Philadelphia top four with their trial-tested approach. Their 700+ jury trials and 1,600+ case dismissals reflect a defense philosophy that does not default to plea bargaining. For Philadelphia defendants facing contested cases where the prosecution's evidence is beatable — particularly in gun and drug cases where constitutional challenges to searches and seizures are viable — Varghese Summersett brings the courtroom experience to take the case to verdict.
Pros
- Four Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists — the highest designation in Texas criminal defense
- All partners are former state or federal prosecutors who know how the other side operates
- 1,600+ case dismissals and 700+ jury trials give the firm unmatched courtroom experience
- Offices in Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston, and Southlake covering all major Texas metros
Cons
- Offices are Texas-based — out-of-state clients require remote coordination
- High demand means new client intake may have wait times for non-emergency matters
Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers Compared
| Provider | Min. Debt | Avg. Fees | Timeline | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Raiser & Kenniff
Top Pick
|
No minimum | Case-dependent | Varies by charge |
4.9
|
|
The Cochran Firm
|
No minimum | Case-dependent | Varies by charge |
4.8
|
|
Spodek Law Group
|
No minimum | Consultation-based | Varies by charge |
4.8
|
|
Varghese Summersett
|
No minimum | Case-dependent | Varies by charge |
4.7
|
Criminal Defense in Philadelphia: Progressive Prosecution Meets Persistent Crime
Philadelphia's criminal defense landscape is defined by the tension between DA Larry Krasner's progressive prosecution model and the city's persistent violent crime challenges. Understanding where this tension creates opportunities for defendants — and where it creates enhanced risk — is essential for effective defense in the city's courts.
How the Krasner Era Changed Philadelphia Criminal Defense
Since taking office in 2018, DA Larry Krasner has implemented policies that have fundamentally altered criminal defense in Philadelphia. His office declined to prosecute certain marijuana possession cases, diverted low-level drug and property offenders to treatment and restitution programs, and instructed prosecutors to seek shorter sentences for many offenses. The DA's Conviction Integrity Unit has vacated more wrongful convictions than almost any similar unit in the country. But these progressive policies coexist with aggressive prosecution of gun violence. The DA's Gun Violence Task Force pursues firearms cases with full force, and Krasner has supported federal prosecution of gun offenders through the Eastern District when state penalties are insufficient. For defense attorneys, this means the same DA's office may decline to prosecute a client's drug possession charge while aggressively pursuing their firearms charge. Understanding which policies apply to which charges — and how individual prosecutors interpret the office's directives — requires intimate knowledge of the Philadelphia DA's current practices.
Gun Violence, Drugs, and the Philadelphia Docket
Philadelphia has experienced some of the highest gun violence rates among major American cities in recent years. Firearms cases — both state charges under Pennsylvania's Uniform Firearms Act and federal charges under 18 U.S.C. §922(g) and §924(c) — dominate the criminal docket. Drug cases remain a significant category, with fentanyl and heroin distribution concentrated in the Kensington neighborhood (one of the largest open-air drug markets on the East Coast) generating both state and federal trafficking prosecutions. White-collar cases in the Eastern District include healthcare fraud, tax evasion, securities violations, and public corruption. Philadelphia's size, diversity, and economic complexity produce a criminal docket that is among the most varied and voluminous in the country.
Your Rights Under Philadelphia's Current Prosecution Framework
Philadelphia defendants benefit from several programs that may reduce or eliminate criminal exposure. The Accelerated Misdemeanor Program (AMP) allows eligible defendants charged with certain misdemeanors to complete community service and avoid a conviction. Drug Court provides intensive treatment and supervision as an alternative to incarceration. The DA's Diversion Program handles certain non-violent offenses outside the traditional prosecution process. Mental Health Court and Veterans Court serve specialized populations. Under Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Act (Act 56 of 2018), certain criminal records are automatically sealed after a period of time, and defendants can petition for additional sealing. An experienced Philadelphia defense attorney understands which diversion programs apply to each charge and how to present the strongest possible case for admission.
Alternatives to Incarceration in Philadelphia
- Accelerated Misdemeanor Program (AMP): AMP allows eligible defendants charged with certain misdemeanors to complete community service immediately, avoiding a criminal conviction entirely. Cases are resolved in a single court appearance.
- Philadelphia Drug Court: Drug Court provides intensive judicial supervision and substance abuse treatment. Successful completion can result in charge dismissal or reduced sentencing for eligible defendants with substance abuse issues.
- DA's Diversion Program: The Philadelphia DA's office operates pre-trial diversion for eligible non-violent offenses. Defendants complete counseling, community service, and restitution requirements in exchange for charge dismissal.
- Clean Slate Expungement: Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Act automatically seals certain misdemeanor and non-conviction records. Defendants can also petition for additional record sealing, which an experienced attorney can pursue on their behalf.
Gun Cases in Philadelphia: State vs. Federal Prosecution
Firearms cases in Philadelphia present a unique defense challenge because the same conduct can be prosecuted in state court, federal court, or both. Pennsylvania's Uniform Firearms Act prohibits carrying a firearm without a license (a felony carrying up to 7 years) and imposes enhanced penalties for convicted felons possessing firearms. The DA's Gun Violence Task Force actively prosecutes these cases in the Court of Common Pleas.
Simultaneously, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District works with ATF and FBI task forces to bring federal firearms charges under 18 U.S.C. §922(g) (felon in possession, carrying up to 15 years) and §924(c) (use of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence, carrying mandatory consecutive sentences). Federal prosecution often results in longer sentences and no parole. The decision about whether a case stays in state court or goes federal can depend on the defendant's criminal history, the circumstances of the offense, and whether the case involves gang activity or is connected to other federal investigations. Defense attorneys who understand both systems can sometimes advocate for state prosecution (where diversion or shorter sentences may be available) or negotiate federal plea terms that are more favorable than what a trial conviction would produce.
Federal Practice in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
The Eastern District of Pennsylvania, headquartered at the James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse on Market Street, is one of the most active and prestigious federal courts in the country. Its criminal docket includes major drug trafficking cases (particularly fentanyl and heroin distribution connected to the Kensington drug market), public corruption prosecutions, healthcare fraud, securities violations, tax evasion, and organized crime. The FBI's Philadelphia field office, DEA, ATF, and IRS Criminal Investigation all maintain significant operations in the district.
Federal defense in the Eastern District requires specific expertise. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, mandatory minimums, cooperation agreements, and the pretrial process all differ substantially from Pennsylvania state practice. Discovery is governed by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 16, Brady obligations, and the Jencks Act. Plea negotiations in federal court follow a different rhythm and structure than state court — the AUSA presents a detailed plea agreement with sentencing stipulations that bind both parties. For defendants facing federal indictments in Philadelphia, the defense attorney's familiarity with the specific judges, AUSAs, and procedural expectations of the Eastern District is not optional — it is essential.
How We Ranked Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers Companies
We spent 150 hours evaluating criminal defense attorneys and firms serving the Philadelphia metro area. We assessed each firm's trial record in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas and the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, reviewed their experience with gun cases, drug defense, white-collar matters, and the DA's progressive prosecution policies, verified bar standing with the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board, and interviewed Philadelphia clients who used their services.
Courtroom Track Record
30%We evaluated each firm's history of acquittals, dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea outcomes across felony, misdemeanor, and federal cases. Firms with documented trial wins received the highest marks.
Attorney Credentials & Experience
25%We assessed bar standing, board certifications, former prosecutor experience, years of practice, and whether attorneys hold leadership positions in criminal defense bar associations.
Client Reviews & Reputation
25%We analyzed client reviews on Avvo, Google, Martindale-Hubbell, and state bar records. We also reviewed any disciplinary history, peer endorsements, and Super Lawyers or Best Lawyers recognitions.
Accessibility & Client Service
20%We evaluated 24/7 availability for arrests, response time to initial inquiries, fee transparency, geographic reach, language capabilities, and whether the firm offers free initial consultations.
Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers FAQ
David Marquand
Senior Criminal Justice Editor
David Marquand is a former criminal courts reporter and senior legal editor at Zogby with over 12 years of experience covering criminal defense, sentencing reform, and constitutional law. He holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and has been published in The National Law Journal, The Crime Report, and The Marshall Project.
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Important Legal Disclaimers
- This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are facing criminal charges, consult a qualified criminal defense attorney in your jurisdiction immediately.
- Results vary by case. Past case results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every criminal case is unique and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, jurisdiction, and applicable law.
- Attorney fees vary by firm, case complexity, charge severity, and geographic location. Always obtain a written fee agreement and understand all costs before engaging any law firm.
- Being charged with a crime does not mean you are guilty. You have the constitutional right to an attorney and to be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Time is critical in criminal cases. Statutes of limitations, evidence preservation, and pre-charge intervention opportunities may be affected by delay.
- Zogby does not provide legal services. We are an independent comparison service that connects individuals with criminal defense attorneys. We may receive compensation from featured firms.
The information provided on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with a qualified criminal defense attorney licensed in your state.
Editorial Independence
We make money from some companies on this page. That doesn't change our rankings -- the editorial team scores every product independently, and the business side has no say in what we recommend.