public defender vs private attorney

Criminal defense attorney explaining legal fees and retainer costs in 2026 consultation

February 17, 2026

Criminal Defense Attorney Fees Demystified: What to Expect in 2026

Facing criminal charges is stressful enough without worrying about unexpected lawyer fees. As criminal defense attorneys at Brandt Law, we understand how confusing legal billing can be. We wrote this guide to break down attorney fees in plain language. You’ll learn why costs vary, the common ways lawyers charge, and how to get clear answers. […]