Serving Columbia and beyond Dui Defense Attorney Columbia

Justin Lake Helped Me with My Case Feb 17, 2026

Justin Lake helped me with my case really nicely, and his communication was really good! I highly recommend this place for speeding tickets.

Aditya Tiwari

This is the go-to firm for criminal defense Jan 30, 2026

This is the go-to firm for any criminal defense work. Justin Lake was my attorney, and he was wonderful. He really cares about his clients, and I was very pleased with my outcome. Communication at this firm is top notch and very professional. His paralegal, Kristina, was wonderful also. I would highly recommend Justin and the entire Shapiro, Zwanetz & Lake team. Thank you, Justin and Kristina!

AGW21122

I Cannot Recommend Justin Lake Enough Dec 28, 2025

I cannot recommend Justin Lake highly enough. From the very beginning, he was responsive, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive during a stressful and uncertain time. He took the time to explain every step of the process clearly, kept me informed throughout, and worked diligently with the State to achieve the best possible outcome. Justin’s professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care made a difficult situation far more manageable. Thanks to his efforts, my case was resolved favorably, and he continued to guide me through the final steps to ensure everything was properly closed. I’m truly grateful for his representation and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of thoughtful, dependable legal counsel.

Sankalp Nagpal

Justin Is the Best Attorney in Howard County Dec 9, 2025

Justin is the best attorney in Howard County. He works his hardest to get you the best deal. He is the epitome of a great lawyer/leader. Kristina is the absolute best. She’s well organized and makes sure you are as well for court. She understands tensions get high at our lowest. She goes above and beyond to make sure you keep your head on your shoulders.

Primetime Buda

Justin Lake is the best lawyer at this firm. Dec 8, 2025

My lawyer, Justin Lake, was the best. I understood everything that was happening, never in the dark about anything. Such a nice person, great lawyer—he did everything to keep me out of jail with my 3rd DUI. And the outcome was no jail time because he’s just that good. If you’re reading this, stop calling around and looking—you found the best lawyer at this firm. Thanks again, Justin Lake—the best.

tyeacha counts

Getting the best possible I could hope for Nov 26, 2025

Complete experience, from pre-trial suggestions to litigation, and getting the best possible I could have hoped for... thank you, J. Lake.

Gerard Andersen

Mr. Zwanetz is an outstanding attorney. Oct 25, 2025

Mr. Zwanetz is an outstanding attorney. From the start, he was super responsive and I could tell he truly cared about my case. He ensured that I received the best possible outcome. He's the type of lawyer who was called to the profession. If you need a lawyer who's knowledgeable, dedicated, and genuinely has your back, I highly recommend David Zwanetz.

Joyce Atanga

I cannot recommend David enough Sep 29, 2025

As an attorney, you kind of hope that you and/or your friends and family never need a lawyer. This past summer, someone I am very close with found themself in the middle of a criminal investigation. I reached out to one of my closest friends, who is a very seasoned and experienced criminal prosecutor, and without hesitation, this person recommended David Zwanetz. David is the kind of attorney that all attorneys, and particularly young attorneys, should look to emulate in terms of professionalism. My friend told me that David is known for getting involved in cases on the front end and beginning the work to get the matter in a posture that allows his client the best possible outcome. I was told that David is pleasant, professional, and most importantly, honest. David lived up to every bit of his reputation. From the beginning, it was agreed that I would be the point of contact between David and the client because of my long-standing relationship with the client. David was incredibly responsive, even to emails sent at 11:00 p.m. He got in touch with the investigating agency quickly and handled all communications to and from them. David's involvement and advocacy were crucial parts of a very positive outcome. He was a true answer to prayer. As an attorney, I cannot recommend David enough as a criminal defense attorney. He's on my personal speed dial and without reservation, I'll be passing his name along to anyone that I know who needs a criminal defense attorney.

Andy Nichols

Highly recommend SZL firm Jul 16, 2025

We had a very positive experience with the SZL firm. They are knowledgeable, responsive, and efficient. Their fees are reasonable. We had a traffic citation issue. David Zwanetz clearly explained the issue and how he planned to go about it. His efforts on our behalf resulted in a positive outcome. We were quite pleased. Kristina at the office was very helpful and responsive to any questions. Highly recommend.

Eliezer Kreiser

What an experience! Jun 18, 2025

Wow! What an experience! Let me just start by saying, as much as I hate to admit it, I’ve had to hire an attorney one too many times in my life. And during the process, I’m always so worried that I’m paying a bunch of money, and I don’t know what the result will be. However, from the moment I hired them, immediately they sent over the retainer paperwork and went over the possible outcomes. Justin knew the prosecutor and was able to get the majority of the case dismissed. From start to finish, his assistant Kristina was just so pleasant to work with and very communicative. She stayed on top of everything to make sure things went smoothly! She’s a keeper for sure! Huge shout out to Justin and his team! They will be my go-to from now on.

Philip Houser

Amazing Job with My Case Apr 7, 2025

The SZL firm did an amazing job with my case. They are reasonably priced, and they got the job done! My attorney, Justin Lake, was phenomenal as an advocate, and worked tirelessly to ensure we obtained the best possible result. I would highly recommend them if you're ever in need of legal help!

Felix Sorgho

Professional and Pleasant Lawyer Mar 13, 2025

Jason is a very professional and pleasant lawyer who will do legally everything possible to help you. In my case, which looked like I had no chance to come out without at least a high penalty fine, Jason, with his high knowledge of the law, was able to clear me from everything. Jason, thank you so much for your support and professionalism. I would like to add that the office of Shapiro, Zwanetz & Lake is very responsive and professional. My dealings with Kristina were always professional and in a timely manner.

Einat Marx Israel

An Absolute Amazing Attorney Mar 4, 2025

Justin was an absolutely amazing attorney! I highly recommend him! He went above and beyond and is a wonderful person who really cares! Thank you, Justin!

Kristy El vanblarcom

Expertise, Dedication, and Strategic Approach Feb 1, 2025

I can’t recommend David Zwanetz highly enough. He went above and beyond to help me through a very difficult situation that also involved complications with my divorce. His expertise, dedication, and strategic approach made a huge difference in my case, and the outcome was better than I could have hoped for. What sets him apart is not just his legal skill but his genuine care for his clients. He took the time to understand my situation, kept me informed every step of the way, and fought hard for my best interests. Beyond being an outstanding attorney, he’s become a trusted friend I can reach out to anytime. If you’re looking for someone who’s knowledgeable, reliable, and truly has your back, David Zwanetz is the one you want in your corner.

Elias Bechara

Smooth Court Appearance Jan 8, 2025

We were referred to Justin Lake for a court appearance. From our interaction with Kristina in the office and our meeting and court appearance with Justin, it couldn’t have been smoother. Thank you!

Oliver Schreiber

Couldn’t Have Been Smoother Jan 8, 2025

We were referred to Justin Lake for a court appearance. From our interaction with Kristina in the office and our meeting and court appearance with Justin, it couldn’t have been smoother. Thank you!

Oliver Schreiber

Fast, Efficient, and Painless Jan 4, 2025

I worked with Justin in the past and 100% would work with him in the future. If I need some legal advice, I don't even think about going to anyone else. Use this firm. Fast and efficient and painless.

Grant Cunningham

Jason is an incredible attorney. Dec 9, 2024

Jason is an incredible attorney. I had a very complicated case which looked dismal at best. Jason was able to get me probation, which was the absolute best case possible.

Mike Quick

Had the BEST Consultation Oct 4, 2024

Literally had the BEST consultation that cleared my mind to help me make smart, informative decisions moving forward. Now I know where to go if needed in the future. Thank you so much, David Zwanetz!!

Michele' Carberry

Case Successfully Dismissed Aug 30, 2024

Never say never, as the saying goes. We moved back to Maryland late last year and could never have imagined needing a criminal defense attorney shortly after. A Google search gave me plenty of options and I called a few, but it was a familiar name from my childhood that gave me hope. When I called Shapiro, Zwanetz and Lake, I was immediately reassured and honestly had already made up my mind no matter the attorney that took the case because the first person I spoke to was Kristina. She was pleasant and personable and listened to the details. I was happy to hear that David Zwanetz would review my daughter’s case, and then from our first conversation, I knew she would be OK. He got to work right away and communicated with us every step, good news and not so great news. David seemingly took it all in stride; my mama bear issues and the state’s challenges and successfully got the case dismissed. He even came to court to support the state on my daughter’s behalf when he did not have to. I know this is lengthy, but for what this did to my daughter physically and mentally and could have unjustly done to her future, it doesn’t say enough.

Leah Ortiz

Beacon of Hope and Professionalism Jun 17, 2024

I cannot speak highly enough of Justin Lake from Shapiro, Zwanetz & Lake Attorneys at Law. Facing a stressful and falsely filed second-degree assault charge, I was overwhelmed and anxious about the future. Justin stepped in and proved to be a beacon of hope and professionalism. From the very beginning, Justin demonstrated a rapid and thorough approach to my defense. His deep understanding of the law, combined with his strategic thinking, turned the tide in my favor. He communicated clearly, kept me informed at every step, and never wavered in his commitment to my case. Thanks to Justin's ability to dissect the prosecution's arguments and present a compelling defense, the case never even went to trial. His swift and decisive actions led to the complete dismissal of the charges against me. His dedication and expertise not only cleared my name but also restored my peace of mind. If you need a defense lawyer who is sharp, dedicated, and effective, look no further than Justin Lake. His outstanding work ethic and results speak for themselves. Thank you, Justin, for your exceptional service and unwavering support.

Keola Keliihananui

Highly recommend SZLFirm! May 29, 2024

Justin provided expert legal guidance and the community connections to ensure a positive outcome for us... highly recommend SZLFirm!

Charles F

Unparalleled Professionalism May 22, 2024

Mr. Lake recently represented a family member and proved to be above and beyond what we could have ever expected. His dedication, hard work, and expertise were evident throughout the case. Mr. Lake was always available to answer our questions, providing clear explanations of the legal system. His genuine care and respect for the case, combined with his strategic approach, set him apart from everyone else. Thanks to Mr. Lake's unwavering commitment, we achieved a positive outcome. I highly recommend Mr. Lake for his outstanding service and unparalleled professionalism. Do yourself a favor and do not settle for less, get the best!

David

Got my case dismissed Apr 25, 2024

Amazing firm. Very professional and responsive to my questions. Made me feel at ease during the entire process and got my case dismissed. Highly recommend if you are in legal trouble! Thank you all so much.

Jameela Cole

Exceptional Service Apr 16, 2024

You won’t find better attorneys to represent you in the state, exceptional service. The team, from the lawyers to the staff (particularly Lauren), are highly knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated to their clients. They provided me with expert legal guidance, support, and achieved the best possible outcome. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.

Brandon Wilson

I would refer him to my family Apr 12, 2024

I cannot truly express in words how incredibly amazing this law firm is. My case was handled by David Zwanetz, and while he was professional and to the point, he still made me feel like family, assuring me that he and his team would put everything to get the best result. Which they did. I would refer him, and have actually done so, to my own family members and will never use another lawyer or firm again. If I could add another star to make it 6 stars, I would. Thank you so much, Shapiro, Zwanetz & Lake.

Donald Achnick

Best Decision We Made! Mar 28, 2024

Working with Justin and David was such a pleasure. They worked to get the best possible outcome in the case and did so with compassion, great customer service, and attention to detail. Highly recommend retaining the services of Shapiro, Zwanetz & Lake if you need legal support through an already difficult time. Their entire team is amazing - absolutely the best decision we made!

Kim Bernabe

Amazing Interaction with David Mar 23, 2024

Every interaction I have had with David has been amazing. He is a genuine and hardworking individual. The communication and response time I've experienced is amazing.

Nick Riehl

You guys are the best! Mar 20, 2024

You guys are the best of the best! You don’t just help your clients in court… you actually care about them! We love working with your team, including the wonderful paralegals you have! Keep helping others.

Gina Cucina

First Class Individuals Mar 20, 2024

Although I have never needed their services personally, I know each and every one of those attorneys in that law firm. They are first-class individuals who fight for their clients' rights.

wendy lake