Your Friends 
That Defend 

At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, our clients are our priority. In every step of the process, we make sure to keep them informed and involved as we fight for the very best possible outcome.

Howard County, Maryland Defense Attorneys

Bringing Over 50 Years of Proven Legal Skill to Each Case We Take

When your rights and future are on the line, the consequences of a bad outcome can be devastating. You need a legal team you can count on. Since 2005, Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake has helped Maryland residents to fight their court battles and preserve their interests. We are your friends that defend. Our boutique law firm keeps a short client list to make sure we give each case the complete attention it deserves.

Whether you're looking for a criminal defense attorney or a personal injury attorney as a result of someone else’s negligence, our Howard County, Maryland lawyers are eager to help you fight for the outcome that best fits your needs and situation. We offer free consultations, so you have nothing to lose by calling us today and getting started on planning for your case.

A Maryland Criminal Defense Law Firm You Can Count On

Our focus on client-centered legal service has earned us a strong reputation in our industry, with all three of our attorneys are rated by Super Lawyers and have maintained a 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating. Our firm has also been rated by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best law firms for DUI/DWI defense in Baltimore, Maryland, and when you work with us, you will quickly understand why.

We have garnered a long list of positive client reviews from people who, like you, faced difficult situations and needed not only guidance but support. We are here for you, and we are available 24/7 for any urgent needs you have.

Call us today and schedule your free consultation now. Let us show you why we do what we do.

This Isn't a "Paycheck" 
This Is Our Calling

At Shapiro, Zwanetz & Lake (SZL) we believe in thinking differently from most lawyers and law firms. We help our clients understand and accept their legal situation; we work with them to confront and improve that situation, while seeking the best outcome available at law. We recognize that each client is a unique individual, each deserving of the highest client/customer service; and we just happen to get our clients excellent results while we deliver that exceptional service.

More About Us

Main Practice Areas

Fully Equipped to Handle a Variety of Cases

See Why We're the Right Choice

Reasons to Choose Our Firm
  • We approach every case as a team.
  • Every initial consultation is free and no-obligation.
  • We are available for you 24/7.
  • We are a team of former prosecutors and know how the other side thinks.
  • We have in-house payment plan options on qualifying cases.
  • We are highly recommended and awarded by various associations.

Meet Our Team

Over 50 Years of Collective Legal Experience
/
  • US News Best Lawyers 2023
  • US News Best Lawyers 2022
  • US News Best Lawyers 2021
  • US News Best Law Firms 2020
  • US News Best Lawyers 2019
  • US News Best Lawyers 2018
  • US News Best Lawyers 2017
  • Avvo Rating - David Zwanetz
  • Avvo Rating - Jason Shapiro
  • Super Lawyers Rising Stars - Justin Lake
  • Super Lawyers - David Zwanetz
  • Super Lawyer for 10 Years - Jason Shapiro
  • The Best Lawyers in America® - DUI/DWI Defense (2023)
  • Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America™ - Criminal Defense: General Practice (2023)
  • Avvo Rating - Justin Lake
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Rave Reviews from Happy Clients

Interested in seeing what our clients have to say? Head over to our Reviews page to read more. Our firm keeps a short client list in order to make sure we can offer the close attention your case deserves. With us on your side, you can feel confident that we will use our industry experience and relationships to give you the best possible outcome for your situation. Do not hesitate to call us and find out what Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake can do for you. Call now.

  • “I've had the unfortunate experience with more lawyers than I care to admit. With that, from my experience, I’ve learned the sad truth that most are not out for your best interest but instead for the ...”

    - L.W.

  • “Dear Lauren, Everything you said was EXTREMELY helpful. I can’t tell you how appreciative I am for how quickly you responded and how thorough you were with your advice. I was a mess yesterday and you ...”

    - L.M.

  • “David Zwanetz is hands down the best lawyer I have ever met. He is a fierce advocate, super smart, tough, tenacious, thorough, prepared, great at explaining things, kind, reassuring, stands up for you ...”

    - L.R.

  • “Without the help of the entire SZA firm, I believe my case would not have had the successful outcome I wasn’t sure I’d receive. Mr. Zwanetz took on an extremely difficult case and encountered issues ...”

    - J.B.

  • “I simply cannot recommend Dave and the team at Shapiro Zwanetz enough! They are my go-to for any questions or legal advice. It is always very easy to get ahold of them, which is something I cannot say ...”

    - A.N.
/

Getting the Best Results for Our Clients

Not all firms are created equal. As one of only a handful to be given the title of Tier 1 Baltimore DUI/DWI defense firm, we have decades of experience gathering evidence to support our clients and helping them effectively tell their side of the story. You are not alone in fighting for your rights. We are here to help you build a case. Whether you need to avoid criminal consequences or are struggling to obtain compensation for a serious injury, Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake stands ready to fight for you. Our industry awards and positive client reviews are a testament to our commitment. Let us be your advocates. Call today and take advantage of our contingency fee pricing and free consultations. Get started now.

7226 Lee Deforest Drive,
Suite 207
Columbia, MD 21046
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Contact Us 410-927-5137

Contact Our Team

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