Cathy Lynn Howe Schmitz, Criminal Defense Attorney in Williston, North Dakota

Cathy concentrates on criminal defense, divorce, general, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Cathy handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Divorce

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• General

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• Litigation

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Cathy's primary office is at 417 1st Ave. E, Williston, ND, 58802-1946. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Cathy usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Cathy discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Cathy for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Cathy walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Cathy offer a free consultation?

  Cathy charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Cathy's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Cathy's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in North Dakota typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Cathy gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Cathy take my case if I'm outside Williston?

  Cathy is licensed in North Dakota. Matters governed by North Dakota law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Cathy will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Cathy?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Cathy will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Cathy accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Cathy's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.