Meryl Conant Governski, Criminal Defense Attorney in Washington, District of Columbia

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

• Criminal Defense

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• Litigation

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Meryl's primary office is at 1401 New York Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20005. 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 Meryl usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Meryl 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 Meryl for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Meryl offer a free consultation?

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

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

• Can Meryl take my case if I'm outside Washington?

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

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

• Is Meryl accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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