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Charles J Keefe

Criminal defense Attorney at Nashua, NH

5.0   256 reviews

also known as Chuck Keefe

Free consultation
Free consultation
  • State Years
    Massachusetts - MA 10 years
    New Hampshire - NH 24 years
  • Licensed for 10 years
    State MA
    Acquired 2012
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State NH
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Charles

Learn Charles’s areas of practice.

HAVE YOU BEEN ARRESTED? I AM HERE TO AGGRESSIVELY DEFEND YOU WITH RECOGNIZED SKILL AND RESULTS.

Chuck is a member/partner since joining the firm in January of 2008. He specializes in criminal defense and trial work in all levels of state and federal court in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. As the former vice president and current president of the New Hampshire Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Chuck takes an active leadership role in every issue that affects criminal cases in New Hampshire.

Chuck went to college at Holy Cross where he played baseball and majored in history. After obtaining his degree with honors, he went on to Boston University School of Law. There, he again graduated with honors while receiving the Dean's Award for outstanding academic performance, acting as defense attorney for indigent clients in Boston, and working as an editor on one of the school's law journals.

After graduating law school, Chuck joined a civil trial law firm in Manchester where he worked on wrongful death cases that involved intricate legal issues as well as large monetary claims. Wanting to gain more courtroom experience, and knowing he would focus his career in criminal law, after two years he joined the Hillsborough County Attorney's Office in Nashua. While there he prosecuted felonies ranging from drug cases to physical and sexual assault, theft, and manslaughter. Seeking to apply his abilities at a higher level, Chuck then joined the Homicide Unit at the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office where he prosecuted through trial murder cases throughout the State of New Hampshire.

In January 2008, Chuck joined the firm as a member/partner, and since that time has focused his practice solely on the defense of people charged with state and federal crimes throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Since then, he has won bench and jury trials defending people charged with the most serious of crimes in state and federal court, and he was won cases before the New Hampshire Supreme Court. Later in 2008 after joining the firm, Chuck won the Robert E. Kirby Award given each year to a lawyer 35 years old or younger who represents the best qualities of a New Hampshire lawyer.

Chuck successfully represents people charged with various driving offenses, including DUI/DWI, theft and drug cases, physical and sexual assaults, computer crimes, white-collar matters, and murder. As a former prosecutor, he is well acquainted with the methods, procedures, and tactics used by police and prosecutors when they investigate and prosecute his clients. This allows him an advantage to prepare a steadfast defense for all of his clients at all levels of the court system. He has been recognized as an expert in criminal defense law in New Hampshire, and he has used the expertise to teach criminal defense law to other attorneys and author similar teaching materials, and he is regularly relied upon by local and national media to offer expert commentary on criminal cases.

Awards

Client's Choice 2023,2022,2021,2020,2019,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014
Client's Choice
2023 2022 2021 + 7 ...

Contact Charles

Wilson, Bush & Keefe

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  256 customer reviews
5 Star
 
99%
4 Star
 
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2 Star
 
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1 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2023
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | February 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome experience working with Chuck period!
After meeting with numerous lawyers, I ultimately hired Chuck Keefe and am so thankful I did. He not only is a well known and respected lawyer, he also takes the time to make sure his clients know exactly what is happening in their case and what steps should be taken, always answering any questions and getting back to them promptly. I was facing 2 felony and 2 misdemeanor charges. I was so scared that my life was now ruined and I wouldn't be able to go back to school and get any federal loans to do so. He ended up putting up a great fight for me and getting it dropped to 1 small misdemeanor charge where I will still be able to get financial aid. This has been such a life changing experience, I am just so thankful and blessed for Chuck because he goes that extra mile for his clients. If ever I'm in a situation again, I will definitely call him, he's awesome!
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Posted by Steve | January 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you very very much.
Thank you Chuck , I was arrested and charged with a very serious felony / assault charge. Chuck was very professional , informative and knowledgeable chuck kept me informed and up to date on what was happening with my case. I am pleased to say that my case was dismissed And I am back to my normal life THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
Posted by anonymous | August 14, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Won my cases
I had two cases with Mr. Keefe. He was able to get both of them dismissed. He is very smart and easy to work with. I am so thankful to him and his office for helping me so much. I highly recommend him.
Posted by Cory | August 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
Attorney Keefe and his office were great to work with. He is smart, experienced, and very good in court. I faced a very serious charge, and he got me a great result. I couldn’t be happier. I highly recommend his services to anyone who needs a criminal defense attorney.
Posted by Volkan | July 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chuck gave me my life back!
I was accused of several felony assault counts in a self-defense case, facing many years in prison if found guilty. Chuck was able to dismantle my attackers lies during cross-examination, opening and closing statements. He was able use every fact and piece of evidence to prove I was in the right, and that the events unfolded exactly as I said they had. He had more experience than the prosecutor, and outwitted him at every step. He proved to the jury that even the prosecutor was lying and inventing events that did NOT occur. I took the stand, that Chuck adequately prepared me for. Chuck was able to prove to the jury I was the true victim in my case, and we prevailed. Almost 3 years of my life were turned upside down, and he gave me my life back. Thank you Chuck! My kids, friends, and family are all eternally grateful.
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Posted by Meghan | June 16, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highest recommendation!
Attorney Keefe is a fantastic lawyer. He is smart, personable, and is incredibly effective in court. I have had to use him several times over the years. Each time he has been concerned about my well-being and focused on my goals for the case. He came up with great strategies and skillfully obtained the results I needed. How office is also great to work with. They are responsive and informative. Five stars all around.
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Posted by Dave | April 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Smooth Operator
Words cannot describe how I feel about Chuck Keefe. He was very professional throughout both my DUI case and Felony Sexual Assault case. Through his smooth and calculated actions I was able to get the best case scenario for both charges. Chuck gave me my life back and I cannot thank him enough for what he did for me. On top of being an amazing defense attorney Chuck was also kind and compassionate with me. I was very nervous and anxious during both court proceedings and I would call him many times about the cases. Every time Chuck was able to put my mind at ease. He even got in touch with me on the weekends. Chuck was relentless in both my court cases. Chuck is my hero! I would also like to give a shout out to Stacey Denis for keeping me up to date on the proceedings. Stacey was awesome too! You both are the best team I could possibly have. If I ever need Chuck and Stacey in the future (hopefully not!) I would not hesitate to hire them. I almost forgot to tell you that Chuck is currently working on getting me compensation for my legal fees from my former school district. That puts the icing on the cake to which I am truly grateful for! Sincerely, Dave
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Posted by Sarah | April 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
So Helpful
Attorney Keefe helped me so much. He won my case at trial. It was very scary and emotional to be arrested but he made me feel like all was ok from the moment I met him. He was so nice to my son and his office was very responsive. He was excellent in court and judge commented on that. Highly recommend if you need a criminal lawyer.
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Posted by Isaiah | April 15, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my life
Chuck is simply the best lawyer there is. Manchester police and the Attorney General charged me with me murder when I was protecting my family and my home and myself. They wanted to put me away for good. Chuck fought every step of the way. He got me out on bail and then went to war for me. He filed all sorts of motions during the case. He prepared me and the case for the trial like I was his family. We were in trial for two weeks. They had two lawyers and all these cops. He smoked all of them. The jury found me not guilty in less than a day. I owe him everything. Thank you Chuck.
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Posted by anonymous | January 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Effective DUI Defense
I had an incident with a traffic stop turned into very questionable DUI arrest. From the initial call, Chuck knew exactly how to proceed-- he seems to know everyone involved in the process, from arresting officer to the judge in court. He has an effective approach to dealing with people. His advocacy and attention to detail resulted a plea with all of the most significant charges withdrawn by the prosecutor.
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Posted by Nick | December 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chuck is the best!
I have had to use Chuck a couple times in the last few years. He and his office have been great each time. He got me great results and showed that he is a premier defense attorney. His office is responsive and informative. Highly recommend for anyone who needs a defense lawyer.
Posted by Mary | October 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Super lawyer!
Mr. Keefe represented me in a very serious matter. He was incredibly professional and skilled especially in court. His office is great to work with. I would recommend him highly if you ever need a criminal lawyer. He helped me much and I’m so thankful.
Posted by Christian | August 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Job
Chuck was very thorough and professional. He knows what he is doing. Had a DUI charge and he was able to get it lowered to negligent driving. His office support staff were also great and kept in constant communication. Great job guys, thank you!
Posted by anonymous | July 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lawyer service
Mr. Keefe was my lawyer. He is an excellent lawyer. He worked hard on my case and got me a really good outcome. Almost all my charges were dismissed except for a small one. He made sure I wasn’t habitual offender. Always called me back and kept me informed. Recommend highly if you are arrested.
Posted by anonymous | May 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Reliable, professional, trustworthy.
Reliable, professional, trustworthy. Not typically words conjured to mind when discussing lawyers, but Chuck and his team are all of that and more. It’s truly a shame that I hope to never need need their services again! After hanging up the phone with a local police department on Sunday morning in the middle of winter, I was scared and confused to say the least. As it was a Sunday am I reached out with little to no expectations and was shocked that, not only did an actual attorney answer the phone (attorney Keefe, himself) but that I was immediately treated as though I had been a client for years. Chuck promptly took the reigns, contacted the pd and communicated that I would be represented moving forward. We scheduled an in person meeting for the following day. Chuck, aside from being incredibly personable, gave his full attention and reassurance. He took his time, calmly explained all possible outcomes and what I could expect. We hadn’t even discussed payment and Chuck had already given me a wealth of information. Solely based on his initial actions and the consultation, I knew I had made the right decision. My situation went from bad, to worse, to worse worse in a matter of months. Accusation/investigation of a felony was followed by 3 individual, additional compounding charges. I was looking at 3 class A misdemeanors and a possible felony, later reduced to misdemeanor. What started as a small troublesome stream had turned into a muddy, rushing river. Chuck and his team were there to guide me through the murky rapids and at the end of the day Chuck was able to work magic and negotiate a plea - all 3 compounding charges were put on file, and a 6 month sentence + fine we’re to be suspended for 1 year of good behavior. Given the extremely twisted nature of the additional charges, coupled with the who the contributing players what their connection were, this (although hard to swallow at times) was the best possible outcome. I would 100% recommend Chuck and his team to anyone everyday of the week and twice on Sunday!
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Posted by Sean | May 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer
Chuck did a great job with my cases. He is smart, prepared, and respected. I had a bunch of charges and he got them all dismissed. His office was really good about staying in touch with me and he always called me back. Highly recommend if you ever need a criminal lawyer.
Posted by Kevin | March 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
So thankful
Mr. Keefe represented me in a DUI case. I talked to 2 lawyers who told me I was screwed. He said he would fight the case and he did that. We won the hearing about the breath test and then he got my charge reduced to the lowest level driving violation and I kept my license the whole time. He was great in court and he and his office were very responsive. If you need a lawyer hire him.
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Posted by JP | February 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best there is.
Chuck handled an incredibly difficult and nuanced criminal case on my behalf. The case went on for 3 years and he was always responsive, always professional, and always right in his position along the way. I cannot recommend him highly enough. Him and his office are the best at what they do.
Posted by Reginald | February 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Terrific
This a great lawyer at a great law office. Chuck has always been there to help me when I have needed him and he has always gotten me out of trouble. He is the fixer. I tell anyone I know who needs a criminal lawyer to call him. Nobody better.
Posted by John | January 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Super lawyer
This office is great and Chuck did a great job in my case. I met with a couple other lawyers and they all said my case was hopeless. Chuck fought for me and got a really good result. His office kept me informed and always called me back. Highly recommend.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Wilson, Bush, Durkin & Keefe, P.C.
  • 2008 - Present
  • Assistant Attorney General
  • New Hampshire Attorney General's Office
  • 2004 - 2008
  • Assistant County Attorney
  • Hillsborough County Attorney's Office
  • 2001 - 2004
  • Associate
  • Nelson, Kinder, Mosseau & Saturley, P.C.,
  • 1999 - 2001
View all work experience

Education

  • Boston University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1999
  • College of the Holy Cross
  • B.A.
  • 1996

Legal Cases

  • State of N.H. v. T.L.
  • Not Guilty
  • State of New Hampshire v. J.S.
  • Court found glient not guilty after trial.
  • State of New Hampshire v. J.C.
  • Not guilty after trial.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Catholic Lawyers Guild
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • New Hampshire Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • New Hampshire Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Vice President
  • 2014 - 2015
  • Daniel Webster-Batchelder American Inn of Court
  • Barrister
  • 2003 - 2009
View all associations

Honors and Awards

  • Robert E. Kirby Award
  • New Hampshire Bar Association
  • 2008

Publications

  • A Practical Guide to Evidence in New Hampshire
  • Documentary Evidence
  • 2010

Speaking Engagements

  • Trial Skills
  • Criminal Defense Trial Skill
  • 2014

Attorney endorsements

Received (12)
Given (11)
Endorse Charles
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've done a number of tough cases with Attorney Keefe and he is always very hard working and effective for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Keefe is a zealous advocate for his clients who gets results, which is evinced by his many client reviews. He is a consummate professional who is respected by his peers and judges alike. You cannot go wrong hiring Charles for you criminal defense needs."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 01
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Chuck is one of the best trial attorneys in the area. He is extremely confident, professional, ethical, and has a brilliant legal mind."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"It is without reservation that I endorse Attorney Chuck Keefe. Chuck's reputation as a stellar trial attorney is well deserved. His instincts are impeccable, his presence in the courtroom inescapable, and his dedication to his clients unquestionable. Good lawyer get good results and Chuck is one of the best."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Atty. Keefe is a well respected, highly competent criminal defense attorney. I often call Chuck when I need to discuss complex legal issues."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chuck Keefe is an extraordinary attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable in the area of criminal defense and I seek his advice for complex and technical questions surrounding criminal defense matters. I have known Chuck for over ten years and he has an excellent reputation throughout the legal community. He is well thought of by prosecutors, peers and judges. He has earned this reputation through his diligence and the favorable results he achieves for his clients. I highly endorse Chuck Keefe as a Criminal Defense Attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"If I was charged with a crime I would immediately pick up the phone and call Attorney Chuck Keefe. Attorney Keefe is a top notch criminal defense attorney. Chuck started out as a tough prosecutor, first working for the Hillsborough County Attorneys Office and later for the New Hampshire Attorney General. As a prosecutor Chuck litigated all types of cases, from violent crimes, such as homicide, to complex white collar crimes such as fraud. Chuck is dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of service and advocacy to his clients. You will not find a more dedicated or talented attorney than Chuck Keefe - He has my highest recommendation."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Chuck Keefe is a talented and effective lawyer. He has successfully tried some of the most difficult cases as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney. His experience is second to none and he is well qualifed to handle the defense of any criminal charges in the State or Federal Courts of New Hampshire."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Co-worker
"I worked with Chuck Keefe as a prosecutor at the NH Attorney General's Office and have since observed his work as a criminal defense lawyer. Chuck combines legal smarts with excellent communication skills and a great courtroom presence. He is well known and respected by the criminal law Bar and the judges before whom he appears. Most importantly, he attains the best possible results for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I give Chuck Keefe my full endorsement. I worked with Chuck on a number of different cases including being on the opposite side of two murder cases where he was the prosecutor. I also worked with Chuck on a number of cases since he left the Attorney General's office that involved difficult legal issues. I found Chuck to be a very hard working, personable and knowledgeable attorney. He works tirelessly for his clients and always gets the best results possible. Chuck has an excellent work ethic and is a very talented criminal defense attorney that is well respected by other members of the bar, the courts' staff members, the police and most importantly the judges of New Hampshire. Chuck is among the best trial attorneys in the area and I would not hesitate to refer someone to him"
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"It easy to write an enthusiastic endorsement for Chuck Keefe. I have had the honor of both working with Chuck as a prosecutor and observing him now as a defense attorney. His instincts are sharp, confidence is high and he has a great deal of traction with the police and prosecutors in the courts where he tends to appear. I routinely call Chuck to bounce ideas off of him and I always find that his responses are clear, concise and thoughtful. His work ethic is strong as he nimbly churns through written work and tends to a busy schedule of court and administrative hearings. He knows when to be forceful in his advocacy, but also has that critical sense of when to be diplomatic in his approach. Importantly, he tends to a robust case load with a sense of humor, which makes him well liked among his clients, the bar and even the bench."
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