Scott Carl Athen

DUI and DWI Attorney at Columbia, MD

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Awesome Attorney!

Ms Cathy P

After reviewing my case with a number of attorneys, those who spent considerable time figuring out a strategy and those who weren't sure whether it could actually be resolved favorably, I found Scott. His approach was straight forward and he worked efficiently, effectively and successfully in helping me resolve my case favorably. I had been issued a speeding ticket 11 years I never knew about that resulted in an active bench warrant against me. He kept the lines of communication open throughout the entire process and I cannot thank him enough. He knows exactly what he is doing and he truly cares about his clients in a meaningful way that will help them. Cannot thank him enough!

About Scott

Learn Scott’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

DUI and DWI

50%

28 years
Speeding and traffic ticket

50%

28 years

Focusing exclusively on DUI and traffic defense, Scott is the author of the groundbreaking book entitled "How to Choose a DUI Lawyer in Maryland". In the book, Scott provides the 11 questions you must ask any lawyer before hiring them AND explains 20 ways the average lawyer can lose a winnable case.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 27 years

State MD

Status Active

Acquired 1995

Updated 11/25/2022

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

Contact Scott

Similar lawyers nearby

David Louis Ruben

5.0 30 reviews

Free consultation

10015 Columbia Road Suite B

Columbia, MD, 21046

(410) 650-8083 Message
Timothy Joseph Mummert

4.9 19 reviews

Accepting new clients!

10015 Old Columbia Rd, Ste B215

Columbia, MD, 21046

(410) 946-1638 Message
Colleen Kirby

4.9 52 reviews

Free consultation

5850 Waterloo Road, Suite 140

Columbia, MD, 21045

(833) 510-1036 Message

Law Offices of Scott C. Athen, PC

10440 Little Patuxent Pkwy Ste 300

Columbia, MD, 20144

Message Get Directions

Law Offices of Scott C. Athen, PC

10451 Mill Run Cir Ste 400

Owings Mills, MD, 21117

Message Get Directions

Law Offices of Scott C. Athen, PC

1910 Town Centre Blvd Ste 250

Annapolis, MD, 21401

Message Get Directions

Hide locations

Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

70 customer reviews

5 Star

99%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Robert | March 7, 2023

Awesome Attorney!

Scott represented me in a recent DUI case. He went work immediately gathering all facts and securing all the evidence to help my case. He didn’t give up when the prosecutor wouldn’t budge on his position. Scott got my case dismissed! Great job! Thanks for the hard work!!

Posted by Cathy | January 20, 2022

Ms Cathy P

Read less

Posted by Folakemi | October 8, 2020

Don’t hesitate, hire Scott!!

From the moment I talked to Scott after getting my speeding ticket till after he represented me, Scott was nothing short of amazing. He’s very honest and straightforward when explaining your case to you. Communication throughout was great. My 5 point ticket got completely dismissed!! I 100% recommend Scott to anyone.

Posted by anonymous | September 26, 2020

Excellent traffic lawyer

Mr. Athen was immediately dedicated to my case after explaining the situation to him. As soon as I described my issue, he immediately had a plan and always kept in touch. Even through the pandemic, he was always on top of things. He ended up representing me in court and got the ticket completely nulled. Highly recommend.

Posted by Patrick | September 17, 2020

Fantastic Experience

Scott Athen has been an absolute pleasure to work with. Great communication, wonderful to talk with, extremely knowledgeable, and delivered fantastic results. I would recommend his services to anyone who needs them without hesitation. Scott, thank you so much.

Posted by Robert | November 7, 2019

Outstanding Effort!

The best part: Scott made a strong case in court against a big 5-point citation issued to the wrong driver. The result was a minimum penalty. Couldn't have achieved that result on my own. The easy part: Scott spares you the hype and just goes to work . Scott took the citation and information and delivered results. He's the go-to person.

Read less

Posted by Ken | September 16, 2019

Traffic ticket representation

Thanks Scott for all your help with my case. I was completely pleased with your handling of my traffic ticket and the fact that you could represent me and I did not have to show up in court since I lived out of state. I would highly recommend you in the future. It was a real pleasure to talk and work with you. -Thanks Ken

Read less

Posted by Greg | August 20, 2019

This guy is the absolute best

I received a speeding ticket and really couldn’t afford the points - my wife and I happened to have a couple of recent accidents and we were at risk of being dropped by our insurance or having sky high rates. I contacted Scott and he clearly explained his approach. Scott’s practice is very modern - dealing with him is a breeze. Best of all - he got the case dismissed! I would give 6 stars if I could.

Read less

Posted by Pankaj | August 7, 2019

Traffic Citation

I had a traffic ticket of $560 with 4 points. I was looking for a good lawyer and after doing all the research when I talked with Scott it was different, the way he works and spend time on my case and look into all possible scenario was professional and friendly. Scott did all the groundwork and his homework before going to court. In my case, I will choose Scott again for any other court case near Baltimore. I would recommend any of my friends and family to take Scott Carl Athen service. Good Work Scott because of you today I saved my driving history and you helped me in waving my full ticket with 4 points and $560 fine. Thanks Again

Read less

Posted by anonymous | June 14, 2019

Easily one of the best--if not the best--traffic lawyer in MD

Went to trial for a speeding ticket of 90mph on a 55mph zone. Was found not guilty. A few years earlier I had a similar case in which I was not found guilty for a similar charge as well after I had hired Scott. I would have definitely not been able to do it without him and my insurance rates would have skyrocketed. I would recommend hiring him even if his cost is more than the cost of the ticket. You'll likely save money in the long run, considering insurance rates.

Read less

Posted by Sosthene | May 13, 2019

Traffic ticket

The Lawyer represented me in court for a traffic citation and I got a "NOT GUILTY".

Posted by Ted | January 31, 2019

Seriously...I wouldn't do it any other way...Scott is the best!!!

Scott was responsive to my initial inquiry regarding a MD speeding citation. He was thorough in the explanation of his services and approach, and set realistic expectations. He represented me in court, filed the appropriate forms, and achieved the best outcome possible. When I first read all the favorable online reviews of Scott, I admit I wasn't 100% convinced. All I can say is I am a believer now. I had considered fighting this ticket on my own, but am so glad I found Scott instead. He is knowledgeable, experienced, and disciplined. He made things stress-free and easy. I highly and confidently recommend Scott to anyone who needs representation in traffic court.

Read less

Posted by George | January 26, 2019

Very professional representation

Thanks Scott, It was a pleasure doing business with you. I felt comfortable and confident with your firm from the very beginning do to the realiable recommendation from a trusted friend. You got me out of a tight spot with no blemishes on my way record. Great job! George O

Posted by Evan | January 2, 2019

Absolute perfect from intake to trial!

Scott did a wonderful job. Incredibly professional. Kept me informed every step of the way.

Posted by Tim | September 18, 2018

Color me impressed

I spoke with Scott Athen about my case & found him to be a truly modern attorney. Interactions with him were easy & convenient. He was up front with me about his method, to defend me, and what we could realistically expect for an outcome - but no promises. Scott executed in a professional manner & got the best possible outcome in the case. I was surprised & impressed.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | August 7, 2018

Daughters Traffic Ticket

Scott was great. He jumped in and helped my daughter with her traffic ticket. We are very grateful. Thank You!

Posted by anonymous | August 1, 2018

Excellent outcome

Ticketed for driving above posted speed limit. Scott heard the case and was extremely professional to get a suitable outcome. At the end, the case was dropped.

Posted by Reza | July 26, 2018

Exceptionally Efficient and Effective

Remarkably organized and impressed at the image qualities of scanned and uploaded documents. As a client, I was never out of the loop. No stone left unturned -- even for the simplest and mundane of details.

Posted by anonymous | March 9, 2018

Great Choice, Great Experience

It was my first time ever having to consult or hire a lawyer but after working with Mr. Scott Athen I was very relieved off all related stress as Mr. Scott literally took care of everything. I was found not guilty on all charges, I couldn't be more proud of my choice to go with him. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend him anytime.

Posted by Andrew | February 5, 2018

Fantastic Job Done

I was pulled over and received 2 citations for passing a stopped school bus. After reviewing the text of the law I given the citations for I was fairly confident that I in fact did not violate that law but did not know how to explain that to a judge in a way that would find me not guilty. I contacted Scott and after a brief consultation decided that the best choice was to higher him to go to court for me. From there Scott took over the case and I did not even have to take off from work to be there. He successfully argues my case getting both citations dropped and receiving no fine or points on my license.

Read less

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.8 (Excellent)

Work Experience

Attorney, President
Law Offices of Scott C. Athen, PC
2012 - Present

Panel Attorney
Office of the Public Defender
2001 - 2003

Attorney
Law Offices Of Scott C. Athen
1995 - 2012

Law Clerk
Reese & Carney, LLC
1994 - 1995

Intern
Wishart, Norris, Henninger & Pittman
1992 - 1992

View all work experience

Education

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Association
Certificate of Completion
2014

Forensic Sobriety Assessment
Certification
2014

NHTSA/IACP DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Program
Certificate of Completion
2013

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Association
Certificate of Completion
2011

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Association
Certificate of Completion
2002

University of Baltimore
JD - Juris Doctor
1995

Elon College
BS - Bachelor of Science
1992

The McDonogh School
1988

View all education

Legal Cases

DUI with Accident
Not Guilty on all counts

Too much to drink at a football party
Finally, the State dropped all charges.

Texting while driving with several open bottles of wine in the car
Not Guilty on all counts

View all legal cases

Associations

DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Recognition Committee
2014 - Present

DUI Defense Lawyers Association
State Ambassador
2014 - Present

DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Technology Committee
2014 - Present

DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Founding Member
2014 - Present

Royal Order of Scotland
Lifetime Member
2011 - Present

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys' Association
Member
2004 - Present

United States District Court for the District of Maryland
Admitted to Practice
1996 - Present

Maryland Court of Appeals
Admitted to Practice
1995 - Present

Maryland State Bar Association
Member
1995 - Present

Sigma Delta Kappa Law Fraternity
Member
1993 - Present

Scottish Rite of Free Masonry, Southern Jurisdiction, USA
Lifetime Member - 32nd Degree K.C.C.H
1992 - Present

Benjamin B. French Lodge No.15 Free And Accepted Masons
Lifetime Member
1992 - Present

Baltimore County Bar Association
Member
2013 - 2016

Anne Arundel County Bar Association
Member
2013 - 2016

Harford County Bar Association
Member
2013 - 2016

National College of DUI Defense
Member
2012 - 2017

Maryland Therapeutic Horsemanship Association
Volunteer
2006 - 2012

Sigma Delta Kappa Law Fraternity
President
1994 - 1995

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity
PUSH America Team Rider
1992 - 1992

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity
Philanthropy Chairman
1989 - 1992

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Superior DUI Attorney
National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2014

Marketer of the Year Runner-up
Great Legal Marketing
2013

A Thousand Points of Light
President George H.W. Bush
1992

Pi Alpha Society
Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity
1992

View all awards

Publications

Baltimore Jewish Times
Anti Gun Laws = Anti Self Defense
2013

How to Choose a DUI Lawyer in Maryland for Your Case
How to Choose a DUI Lawyer in Maryland for Your Case
2013

Maryland State Bar Association
Review - Amicus Attorney
1996

Speaking Engagements

GLM National Summit
Legal Marketing and Technology
2013

Maryland State Bar Association Mid-Year Conference
Law Office Technology
1996

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)

Given (10)

Endorse Scott

Benjamin Glass

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If you have been arrested for DUI in Maryland you should contact Scott and at least request a free copy of his book on Maryland DUI from him. Written for the consumer, Scott walks you step by step through the legal process and a really cool methodology for choosing the right lawyer for you. You don't want to hire a "dump truck" lawyer. (Scott explains that term in his book!)"

Mark Muffoletto

DUI and DWI Attorney | May 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"There are few attorneys as dedicated to continuing legal education in the area of DUI and serious traffic defense which translates into exceptional representation for his clients. He is unselfish with the knowledge and his advocacy is matched by very few. Without equivocation Scott is at the forefront of the DUI/DWI defense community."

Daniel Kron

Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Simply said, Keith is an outstanding traffic attorney. Highly recommended!"

Staci Pipkin

DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"As a fellow lawyer, Scott is who I call with questions about complicated traffic matters. He is an expert and on top of that, also just a really nice guy. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone."

Travis Newton

DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Richard Lurye

DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Scott is a very good lawyer. He cares about his clients, their families and their jobs. He understands their needs and how to guide them to good decisions. He keeps up with the law and he knows how to talk to the people who make the decisions that affect his clients. He will use his best efforts to defend you."

Timothy Vanderweert

DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've referred clients to Scott in the past. He has a well-deserved reputation as an excellent DUI attorney. I recommend him highly."

James Abrenio

DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. By focusing his practice on DUI/traffic defense, Scott has been able to develop an true understanding of the law, the practice, and how to put on a case. As you can see from his years of experience, Scott has the ability to get clients the results they need. I look forward to working with Scott as he's now my go-to Maryland DUI attorney."

Stephen Allen

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Scott is an exceptional lawyer who is respected in the legal community. He has a strong commitment to serving his clients and is an effective advocate for them in Court. When perplexed by a legal issue in the past, Scott was quick to provide me with innovative strategies that contributed to my success in resolving my clients legal matter. I value his counsel as a fellow lawyer."

Trace Krueger

DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Fortunately I have never been charged with a serious traffic offense. However, it that were to happen, the person I would call is Scott Athen. I highly recommend him."

Gerald Kelly

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Scott for more than 20 years and I strongly endorse him. I know that he is passionate about seeking the best possible result for his clients. Moreover, Scott's practice is devoted to DUI and traffic matters allowing his clients to receive the benefit of an attorney that is focused and knowledgeable in a particular area of the law."

Justin McShane

DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Athen is a trial attorney. What I mean by that is that he is someone who holds the government to its proof. He uses his reputation, knowledge, experience and guts for the benefit of the motorist among us who has been accused of a crime. He stands up every day for those who are merely accused. He makes sure that justice is done."

Robert Flanagan

Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Scott has focused his practice on DUI and traffic offensives. He knows this practice area well and is highly trustworthy. I strongly endorse Scott. ."

Lorn Hinish

DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Referred a case out to Mr. Athen and had no complaints from the client who was pleased with the results. I have spoken with several attornies in the the DUI/DWI field that recommended Mr. Athen. Very professional attorney whom I would recommend wholeheartedly."

James Brewer

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Scott is always well prepared, knows the strength and weaknesses of his case, the applicable law, and always keeps the best interest of his client foremost in mind. He is a true professional."

Elizabeth Greenwald

DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Scott is extremely knowledgable in all areas of traffic law. From speeding tickets to DUIs, Scott is the first person I call with any traffic referrals. His diligence and attention to detail are invaluable in this industry."

View more endorsements

Criminal defense

Criminal defense

DUI and DWI

Speeding and traffic ticket

Trace Krueger

Medical malpractice

Robert Flanagan