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Mitchell Mead Wells

also known as Mitch Wells
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Mitchell Mead Wells
Mitchell Mead Wells
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About Mitchell

Bad Things Can Happen To Good People. Call now for a free consultation.

Practice Areas:

  • Criminal Law
  • Firearms Law
  • Driving While Intoxicated
  • Reckless Driving
  • Traffic Violations

 

Admitted:

  • Virginia
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Virginia

 

Education:

  • William and Mary School of Law, J.D.
  • Virginia Commonwealth University, M.P.A.
  • Virginia Military Institute, B.A.

 

Biography:

 

Mitchell M. Wells concentrates his law practice in the areas of criminal law, DUI and traffic violations, and has defended thousands of cases.

 

Prior to entering private practice, Mr. Wells served as an Assistant Attorney General in the Health Care Fraud section of the Office of the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Mr. Wells was responsible for supervising various fraud investigations and litigating Virginia false claim actions in federal court pursuant to the Federal False Claims Act and the Virginia Fraud Against Taxpayers Act.

 

Before becoming an attorney, Mr. Wells served as a Virginia State Trooper for eight years. Mr. Wells investigated thousands of criminal, drug, DUI, traffic and accident cases; was rated "exceptional" by the Virginia State Police; and, he received 23 commendations for his exemplary service to the Commonwealth of Virginia. He was also filmed by the television show "Real Stories of the Highway Patrol." Mr. Wells was certified by the Virginia Department of Forensic Science as a Breath Test Operator, and by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services as a Crime Prevention Specialist, General Instructor, R.A.D.A.R. operator, V.A.S.C.A.R. operator, and to administer the NHTSA standardized field sobriety tests.

 

While attending law school, Mr. Wells was a summer law clerk to the Honorable Robert E. Payne, Judge, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia, and prosecuted criminal, DUI and traffic cases as an intern for the Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney for Henrico County, Virginia.

 

Mr. Wells represents clients throughout the Richmond-Petersburg Central Virginia area which includes the following jurisditions: Caroline County, Town of Bowling Green, Hanover County, Henrico County, New Kent County, City of Richmond, Chesterfield County, City of Colonial Heights, City of Petersburg, City of Hopewell, Prince George County, City of Emporia, Greensville County, Sussex County, Town of Waverly, Dinwiddie County, Brunswick County, Town of Lawrenceville.

  

Member:

  • Virginia State Bar
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  • Richmond Criminal Bar Association
  • Lewis F. Powell, Jr. American Inn of Court

  

Published:

  • VIRGINIA GUN LAW:Armed And Educated (U.S. Law Shield 2017)
  • Brannon v. Commonwealth, Record No. 1419-07-2, (Va. Ct. App. 2008)
  • Co-Author, "Defending The DUI Charge," VTLA Journal, Volume 19, Number 4, 2008

   

Continuing Legal Education:

  • The Art of Persuasion: Painting Powerful Images In DUI Cases
  • Frank Dunham Federal Criminal Defense Conference
  • 4th Annual Indigent Criminal Defense: Advanced Skills For The Experienced Practitioner
  • Virginia Criminal Sentencing Guidelines
  • Defending Serious Traffic Cases: Smart Strategy, Creative Tactics
  • 3rd Annual Indigent Criminal Defense: Advanced Skills For The Experienced Practitioner
  • Mastering Scientific Evidence in DUI Cases
  • The Criminal Defense Trial From Start To Finish
  • Defense of Serious Traffic Cases in Virginia 

Practice areas

Speeding and traffic ticketDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 35%

    Being charged with any crime is a frightening experience. Virginia law classifies criminal offenses as either a felony or a misdemeanor, with felonies being the more serious category of offense. Call now for a free consultation.

  2. DUI and DWI: 33%

    A DUI arrest can be an embarrassing and devastating event. Now is not the time to have a lawyer that is going to lecture you about your choices. You need an aggressive and knowledgeable defender. For a free consultation, call today, stop worrying.

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket: 32%

    The motor vehicle code contains regulations, procedures and violations of law. The code outlaws violations ranging from DMV demerit point traffic infractions to felony offenses. You'll need a lawyer, call now.

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Photos and videos

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1821711 1568663118

1821711 1568663391

Contact

1518 Willow Lawn Drive
address map

Riley & Wells Attorneys At Law

1518 Willow Lawn Drive
Suite 200
Richmond, VA, 23230

Office (804) 673-7111

Website

http://www.rileywellslaw.com

315 South Main Street
Emporia, VA, 23847

100 East Broadway Avenue
Hopewell, VA, 23860

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
VAAuthorized to Practice Law200509/21/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers238
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
AV Preeminent Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2017
Rising StarVirginia Super Lawyers2015
Top One PercentNational Association of Distinguished Counsel2015
Rising StarVirginia Super Lawyers2014
Client Distinction AwardMartindale-Hubbell2013
Rising StarVirginia Super Lawyers2013
Rising StarVirginia Super Lawyers2012
Top LawyersRichmond Magazine2012
Rising StarVirginia Super Lawyers2011
Top LawyersRichmond Magazine2011
Rising StarVirginia Super Lawyers2010
Certificate of Completion - Summer Session - Harvard Law SchoolNational College for DUI Defense2010
Certificate of Completion-Summer Session-Harvard Law SchoolNational College for DUI Defense2008
Today's Top OpinionVirginia Lawyers Weekly2008
AdmittedU.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit2006
AdmittedU.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia2006
AdmittedU.S. District Court, Western District of Virginia2006
Certificate of Completion-Mastering Scientific EvidenceNational College for DUI Defense2006
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
AttorneyRiley & Wells - Attorneys-At-Law2008 - Present
AttorneyBoone, Beale, Cosby & Long2006 - 2007
Assistant Attorney GeneralOffice Of The Attorney General Of Virginia2005 - 2006
Law ClerkThe Honorable Robert E. Payne, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia2003 - 2003
Virginia State TrooperVirginia State Police1994 - 2002
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
National Association of Criminal Defense AttorneysMemberN/A
National College of DUI DefenseMemberN/A
Virginia Trial Lawyers AssociationMemberN/A
Virginia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMemberN/A
Lewis F. Powell, Jr. American Inn of CourtMemberN/A
Virginia State BarMemberN/A
Virginia State Bar, Criminal Law SectionMemberN/A
Richmond Criminal Bar AssociationMemberN/A
Henrico County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
U.S. Law ShieldIndependent Program AttorneyN/A
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
U.S. Law ShieldVIRGINIA GUN LAW:Armed And Educated2017
U.S. Law ShieldTraffic Stop While Carrying a Handgun in Virginia2016
ForbesGot A Ticket? Here's How Much Your Car Insurance Premiums Will Increase2012
The Journal (Virginia Trial Lawyers Association)Defending the DUI Charge2008
Court of Appeals of VirginiaGary Dwight Brannon v. Commonwealth of Virginia2008
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
EC/IR II Seminar - Technological & Medical DefensesCLE2011
Defending Serious Traffic Cases:Smart Strategy, Creative TacticsCLE2007
National College for DUI DefenseMaster of Scientific Evidence2006
College of William and Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2005
Virginia Commonwealth UniversityMPA - Masters2000
Virginia State Police AcademyTrained to Administer SFST1995
Virginia Department of Forensic ScienceCertified Breath Test Operator1995
Virginia State PoliceVirginia State Trooper1995
Virginia Military InstituteBA - Bachelor of Arts1994
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Gun Law Seminar hosted by U.S. Law ShieldVirginia Self-Defense Law2016
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Commonwealth v. Terrell ColesNolle Prosequi
Gary Dwight Brannon v. Commonwealth of VirginiaNot Guilty

Reviews

(69)
5 Star
97%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
1%
1 Star
1%
Review Mitchell Wells

"Alleged hit and run"

Posted by

Mitchell Wells is the best lawyer ever. He resolved the whole situation before getting charge. He suggested to proceed my case during investigation. In short period of time, he informed me that the commonwealth attorney dropped all charges against me. I am so relieved!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Mastermind Defense Attorney

Posted by

Mr. Wells represented me in Hopewell, Virginia for a Reckless Driving citation of 108 in a 70 mph zone. I got this citation on my way to process into the Air Force and I could not afford to have this on my record, so I hired Mr. Wells after consulting 15 different attorneys. Mr. Wells and his law firm did an exceptional job with my case. He was able to get the judge to take a disposition and drop the charge down to improper driving, which is not a misdemeanor. I could not have been more thankful for the job Mr. Wells did. If I was a football coach, Mr. Wells would be my defensive coordinator because that is how great of a defense attorney he is. Keep in mind though that Virginia is a commonwealth and every Judge is different. However, I do not think there is a judge Mr. Wells cannot face. If you received a citation for reckless driving, I recommend you consult with Mr. Wells and he will be willing to help you out as long as you do everything he instructs you to do. God bless you abundantly Mr. Wells!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

I-95 Reckless

Posted by

I could not be happier with this firm and the handling of my case. While being charged with misdemeanor Reckless Driving, (80+ mph), they were able to get it reduced to a minor charge with no points and protected my driving record and my ability to drive. I would highly recommend them.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

Posted by

I retained Mr. Wells for my speeding ticket in Henrico 51/35mph and I couldn't be more pleased with my outcome!! All I have to do is driving school and my charge will be dismissed! I want to take this time to truly thank Mr. Wells and his amazing team (his paralegal Erin was fantastic) for working with me! I was in full panic before speaking with him and his team because my driving history wasn't the best but they made me feel 100% better about my situation. I HIGHLY recommend Riley and Wells if you are in any type of pickle!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

I'm so relieved I found M. Wells

Posted by

I got pulled for doing 84 on 1-95 in Greensville County (Emporia, VA), and even though the speed limit was 70, I received a misdemeanor Reckless Driving charge instead of a run of the mill speeding ticket. Given that I live out of state, and would not be able to attend the court date myself, I called several lawyers. Mr. Wells' proposal was easily the best, and even better, he completely followed through on his promises. I would not consider hiring anyone else to handle traffic violations in the state of VA.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Alleged Hit&run

Posted by

Excellent experience retaining the law office of Riley & Wells, Mr. Wells took my case to trail and I was found not guilty of the allgeged hit&run, excellent law firm with tremendous experience.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Fought on my side for a DUI

Posted by

In 2015, I was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence in Central Virginia. A friend that had been in a similar situation recommended Mitch Wells. When I called Mr. Wells, he was particularly helpful in explaining the clause in the law that pertained to my specific situation. After reviewing the case and speaking with the prosecutor, Mr. Wells made it clear what my opinions were and what the possible outcomes might be. Ultimately, I chose a plea deal for a traffic infraction and a fine rather than go to trial despite Mr. Wells being confident that we would win at trial. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, I highly recommend Mitch Wells to family, friends, and strangers.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Top notch attorney

Posted by

I hired Mitch Wells on 2 different occasions over the last couple years. Both were for speeding, but I cant have moving violations on my record. Mitch was very straightforward and helped me to understand the process of his defense. He under promised and over delivered. Mitch was able to get one charge dismissed with driving school, and the other charge changed to a non moving violation with a fine. Both outcomes were more than I could have ever asked for. He and his staff communicated with me the whole way through and I can't thank them enough for their help. The fee was fair and worth every penny. I hope to not be in the situation to need him again, but at least I know who to call if I was.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

So Professional

Posted by

I received a reckless driving ticket on my way to work in November 2015. I contacted Mitch Wells and he was so helpful. Mitch told me not to worry and to leave that part up to him. The ticket was for speeding at 77 in a 55mph zone. While I had no idea that I was traveling that fast, still it was a serious offense. I was advised that I did not even have to show up for court on my court date in December 2015, but I did and waited outside the courtroom while Mitch went before the judge and the officer. In just a short time he came back out and said "I have some good news".... "the case was dismissed". I have to attend driving school and when that is completed, I go back to the clerk of the court, pay an $82 fine and the case is dismissed! I'd say that is a professional doing what a true professional does.....he takes his client at heart and does the very best for them that anybody could do. I am so glad that I contacted Mitch and to those reading this review, YOU WILL BE GLAD THAT YOU ALLOWED MITCH AND HIS FIRM TO HANDLE YOUR CASE AS WELL. I have complete confidence that they will assist in any way possible.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

82/70 FL driver

Posted by

Mrs Wells was excellent. I was unaware that anything over 80mph in the state of Virginia was considered reckless driving. I have heard other states laws are over 90 up to 100. Mr Wells was able to get my ticket reduced from reckless driving to defective equipment. No points, and is considered to be a non moving violation similar to a brake light out. Very happy with the outcome.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(24)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Douglas White, Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney on Feb 20, 2018
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

I endorse this lawyer.

Joseph Dean, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 9, 2017
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer.

Amir Soleimanian, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 4, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Brenton Bohannon, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 22, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Always professional and not afraid to try a case.

Patrick Anderson, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 21, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Taejin Pendleton, Personal injury Attorney on Nov 17, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Waddington, Military law Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Mitchell. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

Mark Matney, Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney on Sep 15, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Mitch Wells for his DUI, traffic, and criminal defense practices. He has demonstrated his commitment to providing capable and thorough defense. He is a lawyer I refer to for the Richmond area.

David Altman, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 26, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse attorney Mitchell Mead Wells. Mitchell Mead Wells is well respected criminal defense /DUI / DWI attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a criminal defense /DUI / DWI lawyer. If you need an attorney, you should consider contacting him for a consultation!

James Garrett, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 1, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mitchell Wells is an exceptional attorney with a firm understanding of the law and an advocate for his clients. I would recommend him to anyone in the Richmond area needing legal advice for a criminal or traffic case.

Philip Cave, Military law Attorney on Jun 28, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. The go-to guy in Richmond and for military personnel at Fort Lee.

John Weiland, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 18, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Garrett Green, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 5, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Whenever one of our clients gets a reckless driving, traffic ticket, or criminal charge in the Richmond area we send them to Mitch. We have sent dozens of our clients to him and he has always treated them wonderfully and gotten great results.

Luke Nichols, Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney on Sep 17, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I know hundreds of traffic and criminal defense attorneys in Virginia. I am even one myself. If I got a ticket or a criminal charge in the Central Virginia/Richmond area, I would call Mitch in a heart beat.

Andrew Cornick, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 24, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Mitch and his partner Ed are my go-to attorneys whenever a client has a criminal or traffic matter in the Richmond area. I know without question that my clients get top notch representation when Mitch is on the case. Do not hesitate to hire him if you're in need of help.

David Good, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 11, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I regularly refer criminal/traffic cases to Mitchell in the Richmond area.

Steven Wherry, Land use and zoning Attorney on Mar 30, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mitch delivers results. I endorse this lawyer, and I find his work product and professionalism to be exceptionally good.

Christian Lassen, Life insurance Attorney on Dec 29, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Smart lawyer.

James Towarnicky, Real estate Attorney on Jun 16, 2010
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer's work. As a lawyer, it is a little ego deflating to admit that another lawyer can do a better job than you. I have no problem acknowledging that for Mitchell. I engaged him to represent me in a traffic matter downstate, and found him to be knowledgeable, thorough, very professional, and approachable (lawyers are tough clients, and I second guess my attorneys as much as anyone). The result of the representation was much better than predicted, at a more than reasonable price, and certainly better than I could have done representing myself. I highly recommend him in his areas of practice.

David Hargett, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 1, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I would recommend anyone accused of a crime to Mitch Wells for legal representation in the Richmond and central Virginia areas. Mitch is experienced, detail-oriented, and zealous: a winning combination for criminal defense.

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