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Colleen Kirby

DUI and DWI Attorney at Columbia, MD

4.9   52 reviews
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State MD
    Acquired 2007
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Colleen

Learn Colleen’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    75%
    Attorney Kirby has been a premier DUI defense lawyer in Maryland since 2007. Call her today for tough and detailed representation.

    15 years

  2. Criminal defense
    15%
    When it comes to interactions with the criminal justice system, you will want a knowledgeable, aggressive, and compassionate defense lawyer. Stop worrying, call her today at 410.807.3549 for a free consultation.

    15 years

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket
    10%
    Attorney Kirby routinely handles traffic matters that range from speeding tickets to driving on a suspended license. Keeping a clean driving record and avoiding points is essential to her clients.

    15 years

I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delaware, where I majored in Criminal Justice and participated in the Honors Program. I later attended the University of Baltimore School of Law where my concentration was litigation and advocacy. I studied under Professor Byron Warnken, who was my instructor for Criminal Law, Constitutional Criminal Procedure I and II.

Graduating cum laude and winning an award for academic excellence, I earned my JD while ranking in the top 20% of my class. After participating in the University’s Clinical Program, I became licensed to practice law, serving as a public defender in Baltimore City. While working for the Office of the Public Defender, I also worked in the private sector for Towson attorney Richard Karceski, handling criminal matters. I was admitted to the Maryland Bar in December of 2007.

Following law school, I served as a law clerk to the Honorable Joseph F. Murphy, Jr. When I began my clerkship, Judge Murphy was the Chief Judge of the Maryland Court of Special Appeals. During the course of my clerkship, Judge Murphy was appointed to Maryland's highest Court, the Maryland Court of Appeals. While working on both courts, I was responsible for conducting legal research and drafting appellate opinions, some of which have been published and now serve as Maryland law.

In 2009, I began working as a prosecutor for the Howard County State's Attorney's Office. I became a skilled trial lawyer by handling a variety of criminal and traffic cases for the State of Maryland.

As an accomplished defense attorney for over 10 years, I have successfully litigated countless DUIs/DWI cases and criminal matters alleging crimes such as assault, drug possession, theft, domesic violence, and other jailable offenses.

Photos and videos

My office is conveniently location in Ellicott City at the intersection of Snowden River Parkway and Route 108.

Contact Colleen

Law Office of Colleen M. Kirby, Esq.
5850 Waterloo Road
Suite 140
Columbia, MD, 21045

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  52 customer reviews
Posted by Nisar | September 16, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Speeding ticket
I contacted attorney Colleen for my speeding ticket and she was very professional about it. She said that I don’t have to worry about this issue. I asked her to fight this ticket for me, I didn’t had to go to the court with her. Colleen did an amazing job and I didn’t get any points and was found not guilty. Thank you very much Colleen!!
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Posted by Ben | September 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer
After a long and exhausted research I found Colleen that was extremly understanding my situation and had it resolve right away. She will go the extra mile for you to make sure you being taken care of!!
Posted by Jessica | August 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The most you can ask for in an attorney
From the beginning Colleen was so understanding and attentive. She walked me through every step, let me know exactly what I needed to do for the best outcome. She was available even after business hours if I had a question. When it came for my hearing she spoke to me about the judge I had, again setting realistic, honest expectations. I couldn't have asked for a more thorough, active and creative attorney.
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Posted by Ronaldo | April 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Direct and Efficient
Ms Kirby never promised me anything, or misinformed throughout the process of my case. IN FACT, Ms Kirby kept me well informed and fortunately was able to helped me get my desired outcome. Ms Kirby was very kind and respectful and most importantly professional. I Highly recommend the Law office of Ms Kirby
Posted by anonymous | April 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A very professional & Serious DUI amnd DWI, criminal defense attorney
Attorney Colleen Kirby, was a true blessing to me, I was being charged with my very first DWI case, that I was a nervous wreck about, I initially knew that I was not guilty and, that I wanted this charge to be dismissed. I knew that I had to pay for a good lawyer in order for that to happen. I started out with a lawyer who I was not confident in, she reminded me of a state defense attorney, so me being the very spiritual person that I am, I prayed and manifested for my charge to be found as not guilty. After my manifesting & prayers, I received a called saying that I was placed with a new Lawyer Colleen Kirby. Colleen was handed my case less then two weeks before my trail. Not only is, Attorney Colleen Kirby a very professional, and substantial champion, she is also kind, she truly does care. She is a fighter, she will fight for you with every legal term she has and knows. She shows up prepared and ready too Win, Attorney Colleen Kirby is a Winner, she won my case, I was found not guilty! I also was charged with driving without a license, she Argued for me, the judge granted me 90 day to get my license. I am truly thankful for Attorney Colleen Kirby, she is a true winner.
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Posted by anonymous | August 11, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Look no further, you’ve found the best.
Colleen Kirby is hands down, one of the best people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting and I’m so glad that I hired her. This was my first and only arrest for suspicion of DUI/DWI. Naturally, I was terrified as the gravity of the situation set in. From the moment I met Colleen, she put me at ease. From explaining the whole process to taking the time to reassure me as I started to spiral, she is truly a caring person with the knowledge and experience to put you at ease. As the court date neared, she created a wonderful strategy and was able to secure a deal for me that was the best case scenario. Her experience in the Howard County court system along with her familiarity with the judges and prosecutors helped immensely. Afterwards, she made every attempt to persuade the MVA judge to not give me interlock. Though it was a long shot, she fought nonetheless. I absolutely cannot say enough good things about Colleen. Hiring her was the smartest decision I made throughout the entire ordeal. Do yourself a favor and hire her too.
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Posted by anonymous | August 11, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Criminal Defense
I indeed appreciate attorney Kirby’s dedication and faithfulness to her clients. Thank you for fighting with integrity. Your dedicated efforts have made a long lasting impact on my personal life and turned nightmares into dream again. Thank you again for your professional guidance and all help resolving the case. It took most of emotional pain off my chest. I’d definitely recommend for her service.
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Posted by John | March 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thorough, adaptable, and dedicated
Ms. Kirby gave me my life back. My case required an unusual amount of attention, as my (false) accuser continued inventing new accusations, inflicting more litigation, and tormenting me and my family. Ms. Kirby guided me through it from beginning to end. When the time finally came for trial, Ms. Kirby had a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the facts and the evidence at hand, and was able to systematically dismantle every lie that was told, in real-time, and bring the truth to light. I am and will forever be grateful to her for her efforts. She cared, and had the acumen, guile, and dogged persistence to back it up with results. Thank you, Ms. Kirby.
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Posted by Ryan | July 24, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Verified Review Avvo verified that the reviewer consulted or engaged this lawyer
A Experience, Experienced Attorney
Colleen provided a level of service that is unmatched among service Industries. Not only was her service impeccable but her experience exploited nuances in our case that lead to an agreement with all parties and a final dismissal. There is no question our case would have not ended in this manner without her level of experience to exploit the legal nuances of our situation.
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Posted by anonymous | May 23, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
One of the EXCELLENT Attorney
It was absolutely a pleasure working with Colleen Kirby. The way she greeted me made me feel like a very important client and took consideration for any conditions I had at the time. During the process Colleen spent plenty of time with me to walk me through the process and ensure that I understood what was expected of me. I am very satisfied with my lawyer, Colleen Kirby. She was well informed and smart. She was also helpful and kind. I would highly recommend her!
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Posted by anonymous | May 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent representation and communication
I was charged with a felony drug offense and Attorney Kirby got me the best possible outcome that I could realistically expect. I told her that my priority was to do minimal time incarcerated and she was able to get me a plea deal with a minimal sentence and hardly any time incarcerated. After completing probation, she assisted in getting me a PBJ. After 3 years of receiving a PBJ, she helped me get it expunged. Given the circumstances and the evidence against me, this was the best outcome I could hope for. She was very compassionate, responsive, and communicated with my clearly and effectively. If I ever had to hire an attorney in Maryland again, I would absolutely choose Attorney Kirby!
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Posted by anonymous | October 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Reckless Driving
Quick and Responsive. Speaks to you like a friend and lets you understand the entire process. Keeps you informed as the court process continues.
Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
AMAZING!!!
Colleen has to he the best attorney I have ever met. Mind you I have two attorneys in my family and when I told him them what she did for my husband they were amazed. He had a DUI, with a CDL license. This idiot( excuse my language but he knows better) went out one night, got horribly drunk, wrecked his car by hitting a semi truck ( should have died!) And colleen argued that the blow test was not accurate and got it thrown out! He has his CDL license and he help his job! She is amazing!! If you don't use her, you are an idiot too! I will refer everyone I know to her as she is one of the few lawyers I have met in the area who really does all she can for her clients.
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Posted by Meghan | June 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience!
I found Collen Kirby on Avvo. She was easy to contact and was not overbearing. I had no complaints, the process was smooth. I would definitely recommend her and I give Colleen Kirby a rating of 5!
Posted by anonymous | March 15, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Lawyer
Hired Ms. Kirby to help with a DUI case. She delved right into the case and responded promptly to all emails. If we left voicemails, she actually returned them within 24 hours. She impressed me during the court date, and argued with sound logic and evidence to help lessen the consequences of an OWI!!!
Posted by Carol | February 19, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Colleen is a Superstar
When my son was in serious need of legal help to stay out of jail in late 2017, I retained Colleen Kirby. I met Colleen a few years ago when she helped with an incident while my twin sons were in high school. Colleen is precise, knowledgeable and explained the process so that I could understand. I always felt that I was in good hands and that Colleen would get the best possible outcome for my son. I highly recommend Colleen Kirby for any legal matter.
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Posted by anonymous | November 16, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI/DWI
I would highly recommend Colleen Kirby without any hesitation. I was in a really tough situation and Colleen was able to get the absolute best possible outcome and exceeded my expectations. She kept me informed, was always available and responsive, and is incredibly knowledgeable. Colleen is easy to talk to and a true fighter. You can’t go wrong with Ms. Kirby on your side!
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Posted by anonymous | October 24, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI
Colleen is amazing! This was my first traffic case violation and she made sure I understood everything, and made it very stress less. I couldn’t be more pleased how she handled my case and got me the best outcome.
Posted by Rose | August 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
EXCELLENCE ATTORNEY!!!!
Mrs Kirby is a fantastic attorney! I contacted and hired Mrs Kirby to help me after i received a letter from my now home state of Virginia, notifying me that i had a problem with my old drivers license from 30 years ago in the state of Maryland, and would not be able to renew my Va license until the problem in Md was settled. Living 300 miles from Maryland it was difficult to deal with the MVA. not knowing what to do and getting no where with the MVA i googled attorneys in Howard county and gave them a call, and NONE of them seem to care about my situation until I talked with Mrs Kirby. She took my case and fault hard to get this settled. I am very thankful i found such a caring attorney! Thank you Colleen for all your help and support!! Rose
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Posted by David | August 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Defense
Ms Kirby is prepared and extremely articulate in the courtroom. She prepares her client well and is clear in presenting all options. In addition to her professional demeanor, she is compassionate and non-judgemental towards this client. She jumped through hoops for me. Fees are competitive.
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Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Law Office of Colleen M. Kirby, Esq., LLC
  • 2014 - Present
  • Associate Attorney
  • Price Benowitz, LLP
  • 2011 - 2013
  • Assistant State's Attorney
  • Howard County State's Attorney's Office
  • 2008 - 2010
  • Law Clerk, Maryland Court of Appeals
  • Hon. Joseph F. Murphy, Jr.
  • 2007 - 2008
  • Rule 16 Attorney
  • Office Of The Public Defender Maryland
  • 2006 - 2007
  • law clerk
  • Law Office of Richard Karceski
  • 2005 - 2007
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Baltimore School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2007
  • University of Delaware
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2004

Associations

  • Howard County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • 2014 - Present
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • 2013 - Present
  • Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys' Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Maryland State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2007 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 40 under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Top 40 under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Mt. Royal Scholarship Award
  • University of Baltimore School of Law
  • 2006
  • Mt. Royal Scholarship Award
  • University of Baltimore School of Law
  • 2006
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (14)
Given (5)
Endorse Colleen
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Kirby is an excellent attorney. She is dedicated, passionate, hard working, and very knowledgable in her field. Definitely one of the best!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Simply said, Colleen is an outstanding criminal attorney. Highly recommended!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Kirby is aggressive, professional, and knowledgable. Clients that use her services are in good hands without a doubt."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer no doubt. Colleen is a compassionate and zealous advocate for her clients- both human and canine. I tried cases against Collen when she was an Assistant State's Attorney, have seen her try cases now as private defense, and have worked alongside her in her capacity as an advocate against breed specific dog legislation. She is a consummate professional and will go to the ends of the earth for her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen Kirby is a serious Maryland defense attorney with a true passion for her practice. She is worth her weight in gold!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer for her skills in criminal defense. I have referred Colleen a few cases and each time the cilent has been more than satisfied with Colleen's work. She cares about each cilent and is attentive to their case. Colleen has had great experience in her career, which makes her a better advocate for her clients. She is a hard worker and will do her absolute best for each client."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen is a terrific lawyer. She is one of the sharpest legal minds that I know. She brings a great deal of knowledge, skill, and dedication to her clients. I highly recommend her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen Kirby is a tireless advocate for her clients. She has leverage her experience as a prosecutor to become a top notch defense attorney. I would recommend Colleen to my friends and family without reservation. She is also a generous colleague who will share her knowledge and common sense to help other attorneys improve their defense strategy. Colleen is also a brave and passionate defender of pit bulls. I greatly admire her as a professional and as a woman."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen Kirby is an aggressive and effective criminal defense attorney. I would not hesitate to refer an important matter to her knowing she will handle it in the best possible way for the client."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I love working with the Pit Bull. She is sweet on the outside but get her in a courtroom and wow. Tough, aggressive and smart."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen is awesome. I have worked with her for several years. She is known as the Pit Bull Lawyer and she is certainly someone I want in my corner."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen is the type of lawyer that every other lawyer should have in the contacts file. Her ability to break down complicated criminal issues is fantastic and she is a tremendous advocate for her clients. When I have a Maryland criminal defense or traffic question, Colleen is a trusted colleague on speed dial."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Getting to work with Colleen has been a pleasure. She is a pit bull in the courtroom but the nicest person to kick back with after the day is done."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Colleen is a pit bull! First as a prosecutor now as a defense attorney. She is someone you want in your corner."
View more endorsements
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Columbia DUI and DWI Lawyer Colleen Kirby
Colleen Kirby
DUI and DWI Attorney
Columbia, MD
Licensed for 15 years
Free Consultation