Criminal Defense in Utah

Utah ( UT)

Average: $7,500

Last Updated: Mar 2026

Low Estimate

$2,000

Simple / Uncontested Cases

Average Cost

                        $7,500                    
Typical
                        Criminal Defense Case
                    

High Estimate

$40,000

Complex / Contested Cases

Cost Component	Low	Average	High
Attorney Hourly Rate	$200/hr	$280/hr	$450/hr
Total Cost Estimate	$2,000	$7,500	$40,000
Court Filing Fee	$250

What to Know About Criminal Defense Costs in Utah

Utah classifies felonies into three degrees and misdemeanors into three classes. Defense costs range $2,000-$5,000 for misdemeanors to $7,500-$40,000 for felonies. Utah has sentencing guidelines with determinate sentencing. The state has drug courts and mental health courts. Utah's unique cultural factors influence the criminal justice system. Salt Lake County has the largest caseload.

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