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Jonathan L Katz
also known as Jon Katz, P.C.
About Jonathan
Biography
Call for your free action plan and initial confidential consultation with seasoned criminal defense / DWI lawyer Jon Katz.
Jon Katz is a battle-tested three-decade criminal defense/ DWI defense lawyer who goes to court with trial-ready strength and preparedness. Jon thrives on pursuing the best possible results in court for each of his clients.
Criminal defense is war, requiring being armed to the teeth, and progressing the proverbial fighting as needed from checking before hurting, hurting before maiming, and maiming before destroying. Criminal defense is also about lessons from martial arts, using fearless cunning and strategy over brute force, and drawing from my daily martial arts practice. The stakes are often high, and the battle should be treated as a one-chance-only affair.
Jon defends in Northern Virginia and beyond, including Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William and Loudoun Counties. He spends virtually his entire time defending criminal defense and DUI clients, fighting for the best possible results for his clients, and repeatedly going to trial when needed. He has successfully defended over 3000 clients in criminal court since 1991, and has taken hundreds of cases to trial. Many of Jon's trial highlights are at .
My staff and I will be delighted to arrange a free consultation time for you to meet with me if you seek a criminal defense or DWI lawyer.
More about my law practice and experience is at and at my blog at .
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
45%
35 years | 3,000 cases
DUI and DWI
45%
35 years
Federal Crime
5%
27 years
White Collar Crime
5%
27 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Virginia for 28 years
State: Virginia
Acquired: 1997
No misconduct found
Licensed in District of Columbia for 35 years
State: District of Columbia
Acquired: 1990
No misconduct found
Licensed in Maryland for 36 years
State: Maryland
Acquired: 1989
No misconduct found
Location
Fairfax Main Office- One block from the courthouse.
10509 Judicial Drive, #101, Fairfax, VA, 22030
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Jonathan L Katz's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 317 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Jas | October 26, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
I could not ask for a better result considering my challenging situation
Earlier this year I was charged with a serious crime that would have put my entire career and reputation in jeopardy. I hired Jon in April and he was very honest about possible outcomes and our defenses. Over the next six months he worked tirelessly to prepare for my trial , putting in countless ho...
Posted by anonymous | July 19, 2025 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Ellos me defendieron de un D U I
Tuve una buena experiencia con el abogado Cat es razonable habla un poco español tiene su asistente bilingüe habla los dos idiomas y te defienden con uñas y dientes se los recomiendo ha todos los que están buscando un buen abogado para problemas judiciales
Posted by anonymous | June 6, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Result and Goal-oriented defense!
Jon Katz demonstrated exceptional legal expertise in reducing a challenging DUI charge (BAC >0.15) to reckless driving and a civil refusal in a strict court, skillfully navigating three prosecutorial witnesses and my regrettable actions during the arrest. His strategic brilliance, including a last-mi...
Jonathan Katz
Replied last June 6, 2025Persuading in the moment is the only way to go, backed up by full preparation. Thank you for posting your review. Jon Katz
Posted by anonymous | May 20, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Best lawyer in Fairfax for DWI
Jon and his team are very helpful in defending the case. I was able to know all the details that could help defending the case in the initial meeting. I highly recommend him. He and his team are available for answering all the questions and clarifications when needed. He is the best Fairfax criminal ...
Jonathan Katz
Replied last June 6, 2025Helping our clients make informed decisions is essential to me and my staff. Thank you for posting your review. Jon Katz
Posted by anonymous | April 4, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Good representation
Jon Katz represents well. He carries a certain kind of moxie that seems to manifest in confidence for legal defense. I would say he's very result-driven in approach, so prospects should come with an open mind and a level of commitment in terms of how the process seems to go.
Jonathan Katz
Replied last June 6, 2025Great results are critical in criminal court. Thank you for your review. Jon Katz
Jonathan L Katz's Lawyer Endorsements
"I have been a peer criminal defense lawyer to Jon Katz for a little under a decade. From a distance, I already knew that he was a reputable trial lawyer who is clearly on the more zealous side of the fence than the average practitioner. More recently I had personal collaboration with him regarding a mutual client with serious charges in multiple jurisdictions. Jon worked quickly and effectively to secure unusually-favorable relief for the client, and reconfirmed to me why he has the reputation that he does. I work next door to him and based on when his car is in the lot, I can safely say he is one of the hardest-working attorneys I have ever seen. He is very focused on the latest changes in the law, and he regularly enlists expert witnesses to bring the best and most novel defenses on behalf of his clients. I can safely endorse Jon as one of the most devoted trial lawyers in Northern Virginia."
"Mr. Katz is one of the most knowledgeable practitioners I know. I was fortunate enough to meet him when I was a young attorney in Northern Virginia. Now that I am a practitioner in the Richmond area, I refer him all my NOVA criminal matters since I know every client will be treated with dignity and will get the best representation. I highly recommend Mr. Katz."
"I endorse this lawyer. He knows his stuff and is always looking for ways to get the best outcome for his clients. Highly recommended."
"I have known Jon for over 20 years, both through Civil Justice, Inc. and as a fellow graduate of the Trial Lawyers College. Jon is a tireless advocate on behalf of the accused. He is experience, caring, creative, persuasive and will go above and beyondin order to achieve justice for his clients. When I need to refer someone to a criminal defense attorney in Virginia, Jon is always my first choice."
"John has taken care of many of our clients. We always know they are in great hands. He is personable, well-respected in the community, and always gets the results that many think are sometimes impossible. I would recommend Ms. Katz for anyone looking for a great criminal defense or DUI attorney in the Virginia area."
"Jon is a lawyer’s lawyer. What I mean by that is he is so good at his craft that other lawyers seek to emulate him and come to him for help on novel issues. Whereas most lawyers would not openly share information, Jon is always eager to help because he is a master of his craft. He is my go-to in Northern Virginia whenever I have a friend or client in need."
"Jon is an exceptionally skilled attorney with extensive understanding of the law. I have watched him in action on numerous occasions, winning trials for criminal offenses and DWI offenses for his clients. He is always polite and cordial with colleagues, and gracious and understanding with his clients, but a bull dog in the court room. I full endorse Jon and his knowledge and experience in criminal and traffic defense."
"Jon remains a perennial leader as a lawyer, teacher and thought leader in protecting citizens from government overreach. At the same time he is a true gentleman scholar as a counselor for clients during their more difficult hardships. A career advocate for when everything matters, he has my highest confidence and endorsement as an attorney."
"I recently had the privilege to attend a continuing legal education training with Jonathan. I can assure you that the attorneys in the room were committed to DUI Defense. From his business cards that show his dedication to this area of law to his experience as a co-graduate from the Trial Lawyer's College, I without a doubt recommend Jon to any person in the Fairfax area and surrounding communities. I'm confident you'd be in great hands!"
"I endorse this lawyer. Jon never gives in. He keeps at it until he gets the best results for his clients. Sometimes, that means going to trial. Other times, it means persuading the prosecutor to drop or reduce charges. Always has client's best interests dictate his approach."
"I recently had the pleasure of meeting Jon Katz and was extremely impressed with his passion and dedication to his craft. He's a true criminal defense lawyer through and through. He's always up for the fight and willing to do what is right for his clients. As many lawyers would tell you, the ultimate compliment that a lawyer can give you is to either refer someone to you or hire you themselves; that's exactly what I can say about Jon. I wouldn't hesitate to refer should the need arise."
"I worked for Jon Katz for several years prior to becoming a lawyer, and I had the privilege of learning and observing a true legal expert in the criminal defense world. I had the privilege of witnessing an attorney who truly went to war for his clients. Jon works tirelessly for both clients and potential clients, before they even walk through his doors for an initial consultation. From DUI/DWI or drug cases to assault or battery cases, Jon knows the law inside and out, knows how to guide his clients through the criminal defense system from start to finish, and knows how to truly counsel his clients and obtain results. I would refer any of my friends or family to Jon in a heartbeat."
"Jon is fully committed to helping his clients. He follows through and seemingly never rests."
"Jonathan Katz cares about achieving the best results for his clients. He works tirelessly and creatively, exploring each legal issue to protect his clients' rights. Mr. Katz is thorough, passionate, and brilliant. I highly endorse him as a fellow practitioner of criminal defense."
"I readily endorse Jon Katz. He is a skilled attorney, a tireless advocate, and brings creative solutions that he tailors to his clients' individual needs. He definitely goes the extra mile to achieve the best results possible."
"Jon is a smart attorney and a sincere guy who always fights hard for his clients. I endorse him."
"I endorse this lawyer. Jon is a hard worker, cares about his clients, and is well known for his willingness to push prosecutors for just results. He's also not afraid to try a case. If I were charged, I'd be lucky to have him on my side!"
"What can I say about Mr. Katz that hasn't already been said by other attorneys? Not much. So I apologize if I repeat something you have read about Mr. Katz before. Mr. Katz is a tenacious fighter and defender of your civil rights and liberties. Sure he is extremely knowledgeable about the law, but it’s the way he defends others with his level of commitment, enthusiasm and creativity that sets him apart. He is respected by the legal community. He shares ideas and defenses to help other attorneys which is a bigger deal than one might suspect. He will stick his neck out time and time again to voice an unpopular position if he firmly believes in it. Accordingly, he has my utmost respect and endorsement. Chris"
"I wholeheartedly endorse Jon. As an experienced attorney Jon brings a wealth of knowledge to his cases. He always provides sound and balanced advice, putting the interests of his clients' first."
"Jon is a true professional who goes the extra mile for his clients. Highly recommend!"
Rosa Eliades
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Kiara Swinton
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Experience
Honors
2025
AV-rated, Martindale Hubbell
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2014
Super Lawyers-listed, Super Lawyers
2013
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2012
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2011
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2009
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2007
Top 800 Lawyers, Washingtonian Magazine
Work Experience
2008 - Present
Owner / Criminal Defense Lawyer, Jon Katz, P.C.
1998 - 2008
Criminal Defense partner, Marks & Katz, LLC
1996 - 1998
Trial lawyer, Chaikin & Sherman, P.C.
1991 - 1996
Assistant Public Defender - Trial attorney, Maryland Public Defender's Office
1989 - 1991
Associate attorney, Weiner, McCaffrey, Brodsky & Kaplan
Associations
2002 - 2005
Helping Individual Prostitutes SurviveTreasurer
2001 - 2003
Free Speech Coalition of DC, MD and VAFounding President
1995 - 2011
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersChampion Magazine Advisory Board
1992 - 1995
American Civil Liberties Union - National Capital AreaBoard Member
Sample of Legal Cases
Converting 3 prostitution cases to disorderly conduct with suspended jail
Converted three prostitution cases to disorderly conduct with suspended sentences
Winning A DWI Trial By Putting Our Own Traffic Stop Witness On The Stand
Acquittal
Winning a DWI trial by challenging the opposing toxicologist.
Acquittal.
Righting The Wrong Of A Hunch Stop, That The Cop And Prosecutor Should Have Stopped In Its Tracks.
Dismissed for a bad stop
Winning a marijuana trial despite a judge's many roadblocks.
Acquittal.
Winning a jury acquittal over eight pounds of marijuana in the defendant's rear carseat.
Jury acquittal.
Dring v. Sullivan
Libel lawsuit dismissed.
Maryland v. Taylor, et. al., 371 Md. 617 (2002)
Double jeopardy dismissal.
Education
1995
Trial Lawyers College- Dubois, Wyoming
Four-week intensive program.
1994
Trial Practice Institute ("Macon") - National Criminal Defense College
Intensive two-week program
1989
George Washington University National Law Center
JD - Juris Doctor
1985
Tufts University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2020
Heroes & Icons
Maintaining Calm in the Eye of the Law Practice Storm
2018
2016
NoVa NORML meeting
Weed & You- Your Liberty in the Balance
2015
Voice of America television
Voice of America interview about the FIFA prosecution.
2015
George Washington U. Human Sexuality graduate school class
Talk at GWU Human Sexuality class
2015
Fox 45 Baltimore
Interviewed on criminalizing upskirting videos
2014
RT Television
RT television interview on searching cellphones.
2013
Justice With Judge Jeanine Show
Fox News
2013
GW Human Sexuality class
Sex crime defense and psychology.
2012
Speaking on the benefit of mindfulness for criminal defense practice
Finding True Refuge
2012
2010
Know Your Rights
Know Your Rights With the Police
2007
Criminal Suspects' Rights
Asserting your rights with the police.
2006
Your rights and 420
Standing up the police searching for marijuana.
2006
Successful Strategies for Circuit Court Criminal Cases
Trial techniques
2005
Virginia Court-Appointed Lawyer Training
PRETRIAL PREPARATION IN VIRGINIA MISDEMEANOR AND FELONY CASES
2004
National Lawyers Guild- Student Orientation
Keeping your values while in law school.
2003
National Lawyers Guild Mid-Atlantic Meeting
Animal Rights
2002
Burton Wechsler National First Amendment Moot Court Competition
Moot Court Judge
2001
Annual Meeting
First Amendment Rights with Adult Entertainment
2000
National Academies panel on children's online access to erotic material.
Federal obscenity laws.
1999
Legally Speaking
Weekly legal radio call-in show
1998
Moot Court - George Washington University Law School
Moot Court Judge
1996
Moot Court- University of Maryland Law School
Moot Court Judge
N/A
NoVa NORML
Marijuana reform and criminal defense
N/A
News interviews.
Interviews on criminal and Constitutional defense.
N/A
GW Human Sexuality Class
Sex crime defense and human sexuality.
N/A
Fox 45 Baltimore
Interviewed on criminalizing upskirting videos
Publications
2025
Underdog Blog
Various daily articles
2025
Beat The Prosecution
Beat The Prosecution Podcast
2008
Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association Newsletter
Persuading Through Storytelling
Languages
Spanish
French
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
Will I go to jail for shoplifting $25 to $35 of merchandise ?
10 Aug 2020
Q&A
Is this considered illegal or something that can actually get someonein trouble for?
11 Aug 2020
Q&A
Cocaine residue on a dollar bill what is the charge?
14 Aug 2020
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Prosecutorial Discretion Runs the Gamut
13 Oct 2018
Legal Guide
Does your judge or jury want to be in the courtroom? What can you do to change that?
07 Feb 2014
Legal Guide
Tips for negotiating a criminal case.
07 Feb 2014