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Carleton Penn III

Criminal defense Attorney at Leesburg, VA

5.0   24 reviews
Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 41 years
    State VA
    Acquired 1982
    Status
    Former Member No misconduct found

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

About Carleton

Learn Carleton’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    35%
    Drug Offenses such as Possession and Distribution, Underage Possession of Alcohol, Grand or Petit Larceny such as Shoplifting/Concealment, Assault and Battery, Stalking, Rape/Sex Crimes, Disorderly Conduct, Valalism

    41 years

  2. DUI and DWI
    35%
    Author and Lecturer, Nuts and Bolts of Defending DWI in 1988, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, DWI, DWI with Enhanced BAC, Second and Third DWI

    41 years

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket
    20%
    Author and Lecturer, Defending the Serious Traffic Offender, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, 1989, Reckless Driving, Drive While Suspended, Speeding to Elude, Hit and Run, Racing, Accident Cases, Drive After Being Declared an Habitual Offender, Commercial Vehicle Traffic Offenses

    41 years

  4. Domestic violence
    5%
    Assault and Battery Against Spouse or Household Member, Child of Elder Abuse

    41 years

  5. Juvenile law
    5%
    Assault and Battery, Theft, Grand and Petit Larceny, Shoplifting, Underage Possession of Alcohol, Breaking and Entering, Destruction of Property, Concealment

    41 years

TRIAL ATTORNEY WITH 37+ YEARS EXPERIENCE REPRESENTING THOSE CHARGED WITH CRIMINAL, DWI AND TRAFFIC

In 1982, I joined a firm with an extremely active trial practice and found myself in court most days with multiple court appearances. Because of my practice and reputation, I was asked to lecture to attorneys at the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association on Driving While Intoxicated in 1988. Because of that presentation, I was asked,  and did, lecture to attorneys across the Commonwealtth of Virginia the following year on Defending the Serious Traffic Offender.

I have maintained a private practice in Fairfax and Lesburg appearing in Virginia courts. In 2008, I was asked to join the National College for DUI Defense. I pride myself on personal, caring representation in all alspects with my clients who, in turn, put their reputations on the line in recommending me,.

Awards

Top Contributor 2019,2018,2016,2015,2014,2013,2012
Top Contributor
2019 2018 2016 + 4 ...
Client's Choice 2017,2012
Client's Choice
2017 2012

Contact Carleton

Carleton Penn III Attorney at Law

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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4 Star
 
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3 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2017
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 Helena | April 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
86/55
I was pulled over for doing 86 on the Dulles Toll road. Automatic reckless. He negotiated it down to just a speeding ticket. I reached out to Carlton, got his voice mail. But I received a call back almost immediately from both him and his assistant. They gave me great advice and tolde exactly what to expect. I was able to have the consultation over the phone.
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Posted by Julia | March 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great service, very happy with Mr Penn's assistance !
Mr Penn and his assistant, Jiatae, were very professional and friendly, easy to speak with concerning my issue. He gave me great advice and directed any needed actions on my own part to help them with my case. I was more then happy to do this/anything for them to resolve my problem. I am very happy with the court results of my case. Mr. Penn did a great job, great service oh my behalf and I would hire him again if ever needed!
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Posted by Frank | September 16, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Cound not have done it without Carleton Penn!
I had a possession felony on my record from years ago. I got my civil rights restored. Mr. Penn helped me get my restoration of firearms back and concealed weapon permit! He gets the job done in a very professional and timely manor. Thanks Carleton Penn!!
Posted by anonymous | September 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Reckless/Racing on Leesburg Pike
I received a reckless ticket for going 91 in a 55 on Leesburg Pike. Carelton Penn asked me to provide him with a few things, like my driving record and a driving calibration for my vehicle. The night before the hearing I was stressing out the whole time. The day I showed up to the trial he was waiting outside and told me that he would speak with the prosecutor. He came out and told me to come in with him in the courtroom. When they called my name, I was only given a speeding ticket. No misdemeanor, no suspended license. I owe this man so much for his work and effort. He truly cares about his clients. Thank you Mr.Penn.
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Posted by Moe | March 27, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
You need an experienced attorney? Look no further!
I had the opportunity to be represented by Mr. Penn in an alleged domestic violence case. Not only did he do his utmost to defend me but also, turned the testimony around in my favor, and we won the case. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any person facing various and serious charges. Mr. Penn has decades of professional experience in his field and he also has great sense of humor, which is sometimes needed in such cases.
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Posted by anonymous | January 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
traffic ticket
did a great job for me with short notice and not great record :(
Posted by George | May 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic Ticket
December 2015 I was cited for failure to yield left turn, my first at fault accident in 53 years of driving. I questioned the construct of intersection. Was referred to Mr. Penn. He spent over 2 (no cost) hours at initial meeting discussing accident. At the end of session he recommended not guilty position. I accepted his services. On May 16th we went to court. Mr. Penn worked with police officer and together recommended drop of charge and judge agreed. Very satisfied with outcome!
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Posted by anonymous | July 18, 2015
Great Traffic Attorney!
Carleton Penn did an awesome job and I would recommend him to anyone.
Posted by Sarah | June 22, 2015
Helpful to the end
I had a very good experience with Mr. Penn, He was helpful with all questions about my case and kept me informed about what to expect. and we won my case!
Posted by anonymous | January 22, 2015
Excellent Lawyer
Reckless driving charge of 88/55 dropped to a speeding ticket with fine of $110. Very easy to deal with and I would highly recommend.
Posted by anonymous | January 8, 2015
Great Lawyer
Had a great experience with Carleton! I received an 87/55 reckless driving by speed citation on the Dulles Toll Rd. He was able to get it reduced to improper driving. It's obvious that he's been doing this for a while.
Posted by anonymous | December 10, 2014
Best of a Bad Situation
Carleton Penn III did his job. Had a DWI with a refusal in Prince William County. We went to court 3 times and the 3rd time was the charm. DWI dropped completely. Pleaded guilty to the refusal with only a suspended driver's license for the commonwealth of Virginia for 12 months, that's it. No fine, no points, no dmv, no interlock, no classes, no jail time, only the no driving only in the commonwealth of Virginia. I hope that I never have to use Carleton again. However if you do, get him. He is well worth it. His working knowledge of all the players involved was vital to me getting the best of a bad situation.
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Posted by Brittany | December 9, 2014
Best lawyer felony case dropped
The day of my court I actually missed it by 20 minutes because I had no child care when I went into the court room they said my felony hit and run causing death/injury and falsifying insurance had been dropped because my lawyer represented me, his office is next to fairfax court so I ran over and thanked him, it was my fault for not having responsible childcare bringing my son to court and running 15 minutes late but he took care of it. He always returns my calls sometimes within 5 minutes but always the same day. I was so scared bein 24 a single mom and 2 felonies against me but he got them dropped in my preliminary hearing without me even being there. I highly recommend him but also recommend being at your court date that was a huge mistake of mine and I'm beyond lucky I had a lawyer that was able to get my felinies dropped even tho I got to the courtroom late. I highly recommend him if you need a lawyer he's caring and does his job no matter how hard the case! Thank you mr. Penn
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Posted by Jerry | September 29, 2014
Review of Mr. Carleton Penn III by Jerry Catoe
Mr. Penn did a wonderful job with my case. He had everything under control. He very personable, funny, and created an environment of ease under the pressure I was feeling. When I first brought him my case, he was very knowledgeable of what course of action I needed to complete. He was willing and able to take my case four days before my court date and with four to five other cases that same day. I was blessed by him being my lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | September 23, 2013
Review for Carleton Penn III, written by Michael Pate
Carleton came highly recommended to me, and I couldn’t of asked for a better representation for myself in the courtroom. Carleton will fight for justice where justice is deserved and he has my recommendation and support 100%.
Posted by anonymous | September 3, 2013
Recognized expertise and reputation of success
I was facing assault charges in Fairfax, VA and Mr. Penn was able to have the charges dismissed. I was facing a potential jail sentence, $2,500 in fines and possible medical reimbursement for the complainant's broken nose. Mr. Penn's knowledge and expertise were invaluable in clearing me of the charge. Mr. Penn was not only extremely knowledgeable of the law, but also very familiar with the judges and the entire process exclusive to the Fairfax, VA court system, having had so many years of experience and success. Mr. Penn's straightforward approach and mentality of success helped me to get through the ordeal and reassured me greatly. I recall asking Mr. Penn what possible sentence I could expect, his answer was, "Bite your tongue!" Mr. Penn then informed me that his intention was to prove I was not guilty. I was so certain that I was going to be found guilty that I saw no other outcome and focused on the jail sentence. Mr. Penn proved to be right and I cannot stress how fortunate I was to have sought and retained his services. Other attorneys I consulted painted a far bleaker outcome and all wanted to charge me twice what Mr. Penn was charging me. Even after the trial, the judge had additional comments, and when he was finished, he turned to Mr. Penn for validation. Words really can't describe how fortunate I was to have been represented by Mr. Penn. If you find yourself needing an attorney, look no further than Mr. Penn. He's the man. 'Nuff said.
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Posted by Tracy | July 26, 2013
Best Attorney around
Mr. Penn is absolutely the best attorney I've had the pleasure of doing business with. He is very knowledgeable, responsive, and caring. I highly recommend him.
Posted by James | July 8, 2013
Review of Carleton Penn III
Ms. Penn did a great job with all responsibility as my attorney. I can't say enough about his overall attitude and work ethic.
Posted by anonymous | November 7, 2012
Review for Carleton Penn III
Mr. Penn is credible, trustworthy, and most importantly, provides results. I would highly recommend Mr. Penn.
Posted by Jeff | October 2, 2012
If you are looking for the best use Carleton.
I first used Carleton in 1998 for a Reckless driving ticket 91 mph in a 45 while racing on RT 7 near Sterling. I was 17 at the time and somewhat unsettled about the whole process I was going through. Carleton was recommended by a friend of his who I worked with and immediately after my parents and I met with him we all felt reassured. He had me bring him pictures of the area, and provide him with grades and teacher references. The day of the trial Carleton again was calm as always, it was clear this wasn't his first time at the plate for a very large ticket. The judge told me to "get my algebra grades up" and that I was sentenced to traffic school, which was going to happen anyway since anyone who turned 16 earlier this year faced mandatory traffic school after their first ticket. And upon completion of the traffic school (8hr class) and provided I went a certain amount of time without another ticket, the offense would be completely wiped off my record. It was an incredible result given the fact it was a 91 in a 45 while drag racing in a Camaro. The second time I used him I was 26 and it was for a 75/55 reckless driving and a lane violation on 66 in Fairfax County, a ticket written by a U.S. Park Policeman. The park policeman relied on his speedometer as his way of measuring how fast I was going. Carleton had me provide my speedometer calibration as well. It was a somewhat complicated case given other circumstances, and the initial offer from the DA was to null process the Lane Violation if I plead guilty to reckless driving, which meant I would have been liable for VA's new civil remedial fines. Carleton said that isn't going to happen and we were going to a trial which is then the DA began to look further into his case. The end result were two non moving violations that left no points on my license. That is a huge difference then the initial offer the DA sent our way which would have had me plead guilty to a reckless driving case. I had consulted with another attorney before I came to my senses and called Carleton who said I "was lucky the officer did not arrest me". Carleton had a much different reaction when I told him of the circumstances about the case that immediately reminded me why I wanted him up there fighting for me. We have kept in touch ever since and he is someone I consider a great friend and feel lucky to have met him. I have emailed him many times with friends that have asked for advice on attorneys out of the area and no matter where it was, (Richmond, Washington County, Harrisonburg), Carleton has always given advice and known someone to contact each time. I can't recommend him enough and even though I hope I wont have to use him again, I would never hesitate to call him no matter the circumstance.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Carleton Penn III, Attorney at Law
  • 2017 - Present
  • Partner
  • Hale-Ball
  • 2016 - 2017
  • Partner
  • Hale Carlson Baumggartner, PLC
  • 2009 - 2015
  • Partner
  • Hale Carlson Penn, PLC
  • 1982 - 2009
View all work experience

Education

  • National College for DUI Defense at Harvard University
  • Intensive Summer Session Curriculum in DUI Defense Law
  • 2018
  • DUI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
  • Certificate
  • 2011
  • George Mason University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1981
  • Randolph-Macon College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1977
View all education

Associations

  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Invited Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2008 - Present
  • Fairfax City Volunteer Fire Department
  • Parliamentarian
  • 2005 - Present
  • Loudoun County Bar Association
  • Criminal Law Committee
  • 1998 - Present
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  • Criminal Law Section
  • 1990 - Present
  • Fairfax City Volunteer Fire Department
  • President, Vice-President, Corresponding Secretary
  • 1984 - Present
  • Fairfax County Political Science Intership Program
  • Sponsor/Mentor
  • 1983 - Present
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Young Trial Lawyers Section
  • Executive Committee
  • 1982 - Present
  • Virginia State Bar
  • 1982 - Present
  • Fairfax Bar Association
  • 1982 - Present
  • City of Fairfax Independence Day Parade Committee
  • N/A
  • Virginia College of Criminal Defense
  • N/A
  • Loudoun Bar Association
  • N/A
  • Fairfax Volunteer Fire Deaprtment
  • By-Laws Committee
  • 1995 - 2016
  • Fairfax Bar Association, General District Court Committee
  • Member
  • 1990 - 1998
  • Fairfax County Bar Association,Criminal Law Section
  • 1990 - 2000
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Young Trial Lawyers Section
  • Chairman
  • 1989 - 1989
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  • Executive Council
  • 1989 - 1991
  • George Mason University School of Law Alumni Association
  • Scholarship Committee
  • 1989 - 1991
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  • Board of Governors
  • 1989 - 1991
  • Fairfax County Bar Association, Lawyer Referral Section
  • Member
  • 1987 - 1990
  • School of Law Alumni Association
  • 1985 - 1990
  • Northern Virginia Young Lawyers Association
  • Vice President
  • 1985 - 1986
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • Silver Client Champion Award
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • Top Northern Virginia Professional
  • Northern Virginia Magazine
  • 2016
  • Top Attorney
  • Virginia Business Magazine
  • 2014
  • Top Lawyers by Peers for Crminal and DWI Defense
  • Northern Virginia Magazine
  • 2014
  • Top Lawyers by Peers for Crminal and DWI Defense
  • Northern Virginia Magazine
  • 2012
  • Most Minimum Staffing Hours
  • Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department
  • 2007
  • President's Award
  • Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department,
  • 2001
  • Life Membership
  • Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department
  • 1989
  • Most Training Hours
  • Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department
  • 1986
View all awards

Publications

  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  • Defending the Serious Traffic Offender
  • 1989
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  • Nuts and Bolts of Defending DWI
  • 1988

Speaking Engagements

  • Continuing Legal Education Seminars
  • Defending the Serious Traffic Offender
  • 1989
  • 1988 VTLA Conference
  • Nuts and Bolts of Defending DWI
  • 1988

Attorney endorsements

Received (18)
Given (11)
Endorse Carleton
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Carleton Penn is one of the most respected legal minds in Northern Virginia, no criminal defendant can go wrong with his representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Penn is a force to be reckoned with in Northern Virginia. He is passionate, diligent, and gets fantastic results for his clients. I would not hesitate to seek his counsel. I recommend with enthusiasm."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is without a doubt one of the top 5 criminal defense lawyers in Virginia. He has been practicing law for over 30 years and I recommend him to anyone needing a good lawyer. Thank you Carleton for the advice over the years."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I give Carleton my highest endorsement because he is a brilliant attorney, cares about his clients and is respected in the community. He goes that extra mile for his clients and treats people with respect. He is one in a million and I am proud to be his colleague and his friend."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known mr. Penn for over 20 years. He is an outstanding attorney and advocate."
Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Carleton is a highly experienced attorney who has a thorough knowledge of his area of expertise. I have known him for more than 20 years. He practices in multiple courts in Virginia and gets good results for his clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"As a sustaining, 12+ year, lifetime member of the National College for DUI Defense, I have been privileged to interact and work with many of our nation's finest DUI Defense Attorneys. Carleton is without question a part of this small, specialized group of attorneys whose resume', training and credentials in the arena of DUI Defense is unequaled by the vast majority of nationwide attorneys who pretend to practice DUI Defense (a.k.a. "The Yellow Page gang"). If a friend, loved one or colleague was in need of DUI defense counsel in the commonwealth of Virginia, I would not hesitate to send him/her to Carleton. I proudly endorse this gentleman and that of his expertise in the practice of DUI Defense. Sincerely, Harley O. Wagner, Esq. - West Virginia DUI Defense Attorney - WestVirginiaDUIDefenseLawyers.com"
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Great courtroom presence. Friendly with the Commonwealth and judges."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have know Carleton for almost his entire career. He has a ton of experience, is very "good on his feet" in the courtroom and gets great results for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Carleton is a zealous advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Penn is an excellent attorney and has a great reputation in the legal community. He is highly recommended."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Penn is a diligent attorney. He uses his reputation, knowledge and experience to make a meaningful difference on behalf of the motorist among us who has been accused of a crime."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known and worked with Carleton Penn on many matters for over 25 years. He is experienced, dedicated and extremely competent."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"i have referred many clients to Carleton. he has always repesented them vigorously and gotten them good results."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Speeding and traffic ticket
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Workers compensation
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Leesburg Criminal defense Lawyer Carleton Penn III
Carleton Penn III
Criminal defense Attorney
Leesburg, VA
Free Consultation