The Hanzel Law Firm
Contact Us Today! 843.202.4714

Facing Criminal Charges?

We have a proven reputation for fighting for the results you need.

  • We act fast to protect your reputation & rights.
  • We create effective defense strategies to defend your freedom.
  • We provide non-judgmental advocacy when you need help.
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Defense Firm You Can Trust

Questions? Call (843) 202-4714 Today.

Being charged with a criminal offense is no small matter. Even accusations – unfounded or not – can cause serious repercussions. Very rarely will these types of crises affect just one aspect of your life: they can impact your family life, personal life, professional life, and most importantly, your freedom. Regardless of the charges you face, working with a skilled criminal defense lawyer will be crucial to minimizing the impact that an arrest can have on your life.

The Hanzel Law Firm is prepared to protect you, regardless of the charges you face. Call today.

The criminal justice system is intimidating and being unaware of your rights could make it feel more daunting. We understand you may feel like just a cog in the wheel. We aim to inform you of your rights and help you understand which steps to take to position your case favorably. Let us use our knowledge to help tip the scales of justice in your direction.
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  • Michael B. Hanzel & Lauren Hanzel

    Former JAGs Providing Legal Counsel

    If you are facing criminal charges, such as sexual assault, drugs, DUI, or even attempted murder, having experienced and knowledgeable legal counsel can be vital. As accomplished military crimes attorneys, The Hanzel Law Firm can provide you with representation to help you gain confidence throughout the legal process.

    Both of our lawyers are military veterans and understand how important your career is to your livelihood. They have now turned their attention to defending our service members with skilled legal strategies. Being former JAGs has allowed them to gain unique knowledge into how many military prosecutors develop their arguments. We believe that someone who is willing to sacrifice so much for our country has already done enough fighting. Our legal team is focused on providing our clients with tougher than tough representation.

Our Case Results

Results While on Active Duty

  • Charges Dismissed

    All charges dismissed for an officer falsely accused of sexual assault, rape, conduct unbecoming, and fraternization. Overcame unlawful command influence of powerful Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and went toe-to-toe with the high-powered Washington DC law firm representing the complaining witness. Ultimately, won a motion striking down the Article 32 rules put out by the Secretary of the Navy himself, and got the case dismissed on the eve of trial through our own investigation that proved the complaining witness had lied. Then won a unanimous 3-0 no basis vote at the Board of Inquiry, fully exonerating this officer client.

  • Drop Of Administrative board

    In a senior officer case, persuaded NOAA to completely drop an administrative board against a ship Commanding Officer accused of breaking environmental regulations.

  • Case Won

    Represented a Navy Commander at a BOI where he was accused of abusive sexual contact and sexual harassment by three separate women and won a no basis.

  • Case Won

    Won a high-profile rape trial for a Navy SEAL accused of violent rape, aggravated assault and numerous other crimes. Was brought onto this case to salvage it from counsel who were floundering, and succeeded in getting client acquitted of all serious charges. The complaining witness was discredited, and he was only convicted of two minor charges based on his own statements, one of which was overturned later on appeal and the other of which is pending appeal.

  • Honorable Discharge

    Won an honorable discharge for a Navy SEAL who was jailed for months by the state of Virginia after a drunken bar fight in which he severely injured a civilian.

Put The Hanzel Law Firm in Your Corner

You Fought for Our Rights. Allow Us to Protect Yours.

  • Our Attorneys Have a Proven Track Record as US Navy JAGs

  • We Know the Criminal Justice System Inside & Out

  • We're Committed to Fighting for Your Constitutional Rights

  • Our Team Provides Zealous & Ethical Legal Advocacy

Send Us a Message

We're Prepared to Defend Your Freedom Against an Unfair Justice System - Call Now!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Will I go to jail if I was arrested?

    Answer:

    No, not necessarily. Although each county may have slightly different booking processes, you may be placed in a holding cell until you have been read your official charges during your arraignment (first hearing before a judge). A jail or prison sentence can only be brought if you have been found guilty and convicted, or if you have plead to a lesser charge with a jail sentence involved.

  • If I’m not guilty, why do I need a lawyer?

    Answer:

    At The Hanzel Law Firm, we always assume our clients to be innocent until proven guilty, and we will always represent them as such. Even if you know that you are not guilty, you will be facing off against highly trained Prosecutors and District Attorneys. It is their primary motivation to utilize the State’s resources to obtain a conviction and penalize you accordingly.

  • How are misdemeanors & felonies different?

    Answer:

    Criminal offenses can be categorized in multiple ways, and this includes misdemeanor charges and felony charges. Misdemeanor offenses are typically considered to be lesser offenses, and typically result in a jail time sentence of less than 1 year. On the other hand, felonies are much more severe and can carry a lengthy prison sentence of 1 year or more.

  • What are my rights after an arrest?

    Answer:

    We believe that knowledge can be the strongest defense. If you have been arrested, know that you have the right to remain silent and you have the right to request an attorney. Both of these things (also known as your Miranda Rights) ultimately protect your 5th Amendment Right to avoid self-incrimination.

Rights That Are in Jeopardy After Serving Time

  • Loss of eligibility to apply for financial aid for college
  • Security clearance for certain professions such as teaching, working with children, or security
  • Voting privileges
  • Parenting rights can be taken away including custody & visiting rights
  • Loss of 2nd Amendment right to legally obtain or possess firearms
  • Cannot obtain a passport or a visa for entry into certain countries
  • Convicts are pulled into police line-ups as a potential suspect

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