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Criminal Defense Attorneys in Vancouver, WA

Our system of justice is not without fail.
On many occasions a person finds themselves wrongfully charged or accused of a crime they did not commit. Wrongfully charging and convicting an innocent person is one of the greatest injustices in our society.

For over twenty-five years, The Chris R. Sundstrom Law firm has represented clients accused of criminal conduct; some innocent of the charges they faced, and others often deserving of a fair chance to recover from a momentary lapse in judgment. It’s because of these people that we do criminal defense.

Over the last 25 years, we have represented clients in the Vancouver and Clark County Courts on virtually every type of criminal charge, from misdemeanors to high felony offenses, including:

  • Aggravated assault
  • Arson
  • Burglar
  • Child abuse
  • Domestic violence
  • Driving under the influence (DUI)
  • Drug possession
  • Felonies
  • Internet crimes
  • Juvenile offenses
  • Larceny
  • Misdemeanors
  • Motor vehicle theft
  • Vehicular Homicide
  • Rape
  • Robbery

Prosecutors Make Excellent Criminal Defense Attorneys

With past experience prosecuting cases on behalf of the cities of Ridgefield, La Center and Battle Ground, Washington Chris Sundstrom are very familiar with the approach and tactics of local prosecutors and, most importantly, they know that the prosecution is not always right.

As criminal defense lawyers, it’s our job to aggressively investigate a case and to bring to the attention of the prosecuting attorney deficits in their cases whether that through pointing out police officers who have overstepped in their investigations or demonstrating flaws in witness reports. Without an aggressive defense, prosecutors are free to seek justice on their terms because they do not look for or see the weaknesses in their own case.

Longtime Criminal Defense Experience in Vancouver, WA

“A good lawyer knows the law; a great lawyer knows the judge.” This old adage is as true today as it was a hundred years ago.

The true asset of the attorney is being able to read and relate to people, whether that is the prosecutor, the witness, the judge or even a jury. When you know the courtroom culture like we do, and have practiced law in this area for such a long time, it’s easy to communicate and connect with the audience. Simply put, there is no substitute for experience in the actual courts in which the case is to be tried.

Why should you choose me?

Over 25 years of courtroom experience.


25 Years of Courtroom Experience

The Chris R. Sundstrom Law Firms trial experience is really what sets this firm apart from other defense lawyers. Over the course of a long practice, good attorneys become skilled at identifying the motives, interests and biases that underlie many criminal prosecutions.

We can recognize these and deal with them appropriately. We are intimately familiar with the law, procedure, judges and prosecuting attorneys through which a criminal charge must pass on its way to a final resolution.

The Best Defense is a Great Offense

Trials are full of uncertainty and expense and should be avoided where possible. The best cases are won without having to go to trial after a full, thorough and aggressive investigation into the facts of the case.

That being said, there are times when a trial is the only resolution and having experienced counsel who are not afraid of appearing and representing you is key to a successful outcome of the case.

Solid Legal Defense is When the Client is Part of a Team

Successful criminal defense lies in the ability to work as a team with our client. While the attorney brings to the table knowledge of the law, the courts and the procedure, only our clients know the real facts of the case. The client is also often his/her own best investigator bringing unique insight into the evidence and witnesses to a crime.

Mistakes happen too often in court proceedings, especially for attorneys who rush the process or don’t have the proper experience. In even the smallest of criminal cases, there is usually too much at stake to let the inexperienced represent you. Choosing your attorney is like choosing your doctor. You want one that gets you, who listens to you and understands your case.

Partner an experienced counsel with an honest client, and you have the best defense team for any case.

Contact the Chris R. Sundstrom Law Firm as soon as you believe you are being investigated for a crime, or worse you have been charged with a crime. Do not wait for the process to run its course or believe that the truth will prevail.

Not just another Vancouver, WA attorney.
I'm YOUR attorney.

Washington State Bar Associates
Clark County Bar Association
Clark County Superior Court
Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program