Kristi Lynn Buffington, Criminal Defense Attorney in Athens, Ohio

Kristi concentrates on criminal defense, estate planning, family law, real estate, and traffic. Each area below outlines the kind of case Kristi handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Estate Planning

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• Family Law

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• Real Estate

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• Traffic

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Kristi's primary office is at 184 N. Lancaster St., Athens, OH, 45701. 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 Kristi usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Kristi 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 Kristi for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Kristi offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do criminal defense cases in Ohio 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. Kristi gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Kristi take my case if I'm outside Athens?

  Kristi is licensed in Ohio. Matters governed by Ohio law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Kristi 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 Kristi?

  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. Kristi will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Kristi accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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