Criminal Defense in Delaware

Delaware ( DE)

Average: $10,000

Last Updated: Mar 2026

Low Estimate

$3,000

Simple / Uncontested Cases

Average Cost

                        $10,000                    
Typical
                        Criminal Defense Case
                    

High Estimate

$55,000

Complex / Contested Cases

Cost Component	Low	Average	High
Attorney Hourly Rate	$300/hr	$472/hr	$700/hr
Total Cost Estimate	$3,000	$10,000	$55,000
Court Filing Fee	$300

What to Know About Criminal Defense Costs in Delaware

Delaware does not classify crimes by degree in the traditional sense — the state has its own criminal code structure. Defense costs $3,000-$6,000 for misdemeanors to $10,000-$55,000 for felonies. Delaware's small size means all Superior Court cases are heard in one of three counties. The state has active diversion programs and drug courts.

Sources: State criminal code, Clio Legal Trends 2025, State Bar Association (DE)