Matthew Shelley Mearns, Criminal Defense Attorney in Bellingham, Washington

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

• Criminal Defense

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• General

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Matthew's primary office is at 114 W. Magnolia St., Ste. 400-127, Bellingham, WA, 98225-4368. 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 Matthew usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Matthew 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 Matthew for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Matthew offer a free consultation?

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

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

• Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Bellingham?

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

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

• Is Matthew accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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