Melinda K. Mendes, Criminal Defense Attorney in Lihue, Hawaii

Melinda concentrates on criminal defense, dui/dwi, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Melinda handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• DUI/DWI

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• Family Law

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Melinda's primary office is at P.O. Box 3504, Lihue Hawaii 96766, Lihue, HI, 96766. 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 Melinda usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Melinda 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 Melinda for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Melinda offer a free consultation?

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

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

• Can Melinda take my case if I'm outside Lihue?

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

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

• Is Melinda accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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