Lewis Straughn Nippard, Criminal Defense Attorney in Ellicott City, Maryland

Lewis concentrates on criminal defense, real estate, and zoning. Each area below outlines the kind of case Lewis handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Real Estate

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• Zoning

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Lewis's primary office is at Converted with No Street Address, Ellicott City, MD, 21521. 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 Lewis usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Lewis 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 Lewis for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Lewis offer a free consultation?

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

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

• Can Lewis take my case if I'm outside Ellicott City?

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

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

• Is Lewis accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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