$ 300-300 per hour
PRO
Morris Hugh Wiltshire Jr.
also known as Mo Wiltshire
Virtual Consultation Available
About Morris
Biography
Mo Wiltshire's clients describe him as "a Rockstar in the courtroom", "a legend in the area" and "the best lawyer on two legs". They say Mo is an "extraordinary legal warrior" with "phenomenal knowledge and expertise" a lawyer who is clearly "worth every penny" they describe Mo as "supportive, empathetic and a tremendous advocate".
Judges say Mo Wiltshire "one of the best trial lawyers in the State" who has "incredible ability to cross examine a witness" he is "a truly exceptional lawyer" and "one of the finest courtroom advocates" who "makes persuasive and honest arguments".
Lawyers say Mo has a "lighting-fast mind" and "knows everybody in Athens" Mo is "definitely the go to lawyer in Athens".
With his services in high demand, Mo does not take every case he is offered. If Mo agrees to accept your case you will be treated as a friend and receive the full benefit of his many successful years of know-how and his drive and determination to win for his clients. You will never be given platitudes or be subjected to meaningless cheerleading. Mo will be perfectly straight with you about your choices, options, and risks....you will be treated as a friend should be treated.
Mo Wiltshire is rated a perfect "10" and Superb by AVVO as well as AV Preeminent the highest rating afforded for "Legal Ability" and “Very High Ethical Standards” by Martindale-Hubbell the peer review attorney rating guide. Mo is a member of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel an organization whose membership is limited to the top 1% of attorneys in the country. Mo holds a ranking as a “Top 10 Defense Attorney” in the State of Georgia by The National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. Mo was also selected as one of the“Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers” in the State of Georgia by The American Society of Legal Advocates and as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” by the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Lawyers.
Mo has also been recognized as one of the top DUI Defense Attorneys in the state by the National Advocacy for DUI Defense. Mo was honored as one of the 10 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Georgia for Client Satisfaction for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018 by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys. Mo has been selected for a Client’s Choice Award from AVVO for years running. Mo also holds a life membership in Trial Masters the organization limited to attorneys with very significant jury trial experience.
Education:
Mo graduated cum laude from Millsaps College in Jackson, MS in 1991 and received his J.D. from the University of Georgia School of Law in 1994. His law school honors include being named to the Order of Barristers.
Experience:
Mo was admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1994 and served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit from 1994-1996 prosecuting violent felony crimes and drug trafficking cases. Mo was a member of the Athens firm Garcia, Rose & Wiltshire were he practiced law upon returning to Athens in 1996. In the year 2004 Mo Wiltshire was the Republican Party Nominee for District Attorney for Athens-Clarke and Oconee County and was endorsed by the Police Benevolent Association of Georgia, Inc., the Athens-Banner Herald, and the Athens Daily News during the election. Mo was appointed by Governor Perdue as Solicitor-General for Athens-Clarke County and served in that post until 2007. As Solicitor-General he lead the office charged with the prosecution of all matters in the State Court of Clarke County and Athens City Courts. When his term as Solicitor-General expired he joined the law firm Prior & Daniel which then became Prior, Daniel & Wiltshire and resumed the private practice of law.
His law practice is limited to extensive criminal jury trial work in courts throughout Georgia and the Southeast as well as select civil, business and serious personal injury litigation.
Mo, his wife, and three daughters live in Athens, Georgia.
A tough, effective former prosecutor. Helping good people in big trouble all over North Georgia.
A tough, effective former prosecutor. Helping good people in big trouble all over North Georgia.
A tough, effective former DUI prosecutor. Your choice of lawyer really matters. Choose wisely!
Serious injury cases require lawyers with a record of success and a reputation for excellence.
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
70%
32 years
DUI and DWI
25%
32 years
Wrongful Death
5%
32 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
Contingency
25%-40%
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Licenses
Licensed in Georgia for 31 years
State: Georgia
Acquired: 1994
No misconduct found
Location
Wiltshire Defense
(706) 355-3900
Fax
490 North Milledge Avenue Suite 600C, Athens, GA, 30601
wiltshiredefense.com/Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Morris online.
Morris Hugh Wiltshire Jr.'s Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 85 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Best Defense Attorney in GA!
I came to Mr. Wiltshire needing a defense attorney when an investigator reached out to me. I hired Mo because of his excellent reputation, knowledge, and unparalleled experience in the field. One of the best decisions I’ve ever made as Mo engaged investigators with wisdom and respect, resulting in no...
Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2025 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Best Defense Attorney in GA!
I came to Mr. Wiltshire needing a defense attorney when an investigator reached out to me. I went with Mo because of his excellent reputation, knowledge, and unparalleled experience in the field. One of the best decisions I’ve ever made as Mo engaged investigators with wisdom and respect, resulting i...
Posted by anonymous | March 3, 2024 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Precise
Mr. Wiltshire went above and beyond to answer some questions that I had and cared to throughly explain his interpretations. I am thankful for his insight.
Posted by Jose | August 19, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
FALSE DUI CHARGES : REDUCED CHARGE
False DUI Charges: Result: Dropped to a " Too fast for conditions". I am extremely pleased with the outcome of the case considering all of the surrounding factors. DUI charges can remain on your record for LIFE and I am glad I went with attorney Wiltshire. Mo was pleasantly helpful to work with and c...
Posted by anonymous | August 16, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Best Defense Attorney
Mo Wiltshire is the best, as an attorney and as an individual. I am a retired civil attorney and hired Mo in 2019 to represent my daughter after a traffic accident, when the police report indicated that she was suspected of driving under the influence. No field sobriety test was performed at the acci...
Morris Hugh Wiltshire Jr.'s Lawyer Endorsements
"Quite simply, Mo is one of the best trial attorneys in the State of Georgia. He is a gifted lawyer who has an incredible ability to cross-examine a witness. I have personally seen experienced law enforcement witnesses wilt under his cross-examination. He is smart, hard-working and always has his client's interest at heart. If you or someone you know has a criminal charge, I strongly urge you to make an appointment to see Mo Wiltshire."
"Morris is an outstanding trial lawyer. I have watched him in court on numerous occasions and I am always impressed with his persuasiveness and ability to win tough criminal cases. He works very hard for his clients, and he has a natural connection with jurors and judges. I watched him win a murder trial several years ago that no one else thought was winnable. He is always well prepared and is dedicated to his clients. He is definitely the "go to" lawyer in Athens for serious criminal cases and DUI's. Hire him. He will take good care of you."
"Mo is a seasoned trial lawyer and there is nothing he can't handle. Mo is the best of the best and gets results Not only have I referred clients to Mo, but I also sent a friend of mine to him when they found themselves in trouble in Athens. Mo knows what he's doing and isn't afraid of the courtroom. I highly recommend and endorse Mo Wiltshire!"
"Mo is a skilled trial attorney that provides excellent representation. He knows the law, is always prepared, and is never afraid to fight for his client. His ability to connect with people gives him the edge over most attorneys both in and outside of the courtroom. I highly recommend Mo as a criminal defense attorney."
"If you or a family member find yourself charged with a crime in Athens, " Big Mo" is the go to lawyer. ,"
"Mo Wiltshire is one of the most successful trial attorneys in Athens, and if you hire him to represent you, you will not be disappointed. Knowledgeable and determined, Mo will fight to get you the best possible outcome for your individual case. He is well known and liked both in Athens and in the legal community at large. In court, Mo is charismatic and tough, a winning combination for juries, and he consistently achieves excellent results for his clients."
"I have known Mo for years. His reputation in the legal community for vigorously representing his clients is well known and respected. I have no hesitation in recommending Mo to anyone looking for a for help in their legal issues."
"I endorse Morris. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Wiltshire and I did battle when I was a prosecutor. He was a worthy adversary and he is a very good criminal defense attorney."
"I have known Morris Wiltshire since law school and have watched his career as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. Morris is an excellent litigator and an honest and professional lawyer."
"Mo is able to connect with judges and juries in a way that helps his clients every time. As the former Solicitor General, he knows everyone and everyone knows him. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mo to friends and family."
"Mo Wiltshire is a truly exceptional lawyer. Mo is one the finest communicators and courtroom advocates around. He makes persuasive and honest arguments with a style that judges and juries love to hear. Mo asks the tough questions of opposing witnesses that only someone with his expertise knows to ask. Mo's negotiating skillls and his ablity to provide his clients with honest reasoned advice based on years of experience has allowed him to obtain outstanding results for his clients. If you are facing criminal charges including driving under the influence or if you have a personal injury claim, you need to call Mo Wiltshire."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known "Mo" Wiltshire for many years. We have worked together on numerous civil cases. I have referred many individuals needing representation on a criminal charge to Mo. I believe all were more than pleased with Mo's handling of their case. Mo is well-known and well respected in legal circles in the Athens' area, not only from his private practice, but also from his former position as the Solicitor for Athens-Clarke County. He offers clients personal attention and aggressive representation."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Mo is an skilled advocate and feared opponent. He has an excellent presence with the jury and I would highly recommend him."
"Mo is a great communicator and a great lawyer. He has the ability to make juries see his side of the argument. As the former Solicitor General, he knows everybody in Athens. If you need a lawyer, he will do a great job for you."
"Mo is an excellent trial lawyer, because he has a lightning-fast mind and because he is good at helping jurors relate to the issues in a case. He has a well-deserved, excellent reputation with the judges and lawyers in his circuit and beyond. He is a lawyer you can trust to work hard for the best results in your case."
"Mo Wiltshire is common sense lawyer with an amazing ability to connect with people. This makes him effective and a pleasure to work with in and out of the courtroom."
"Mo Wiltshire is a FANTASTIC defense attorney. He fights for his clients, is not scared to try a case and is always very professional. I have seen him interact with his clients and he always is pleasant and keeps them informed. He always stays very current with the ever changing law. This is an A+++++ attorney!"
"I was there the day Morris Wiltshire was sworn in as an attorney. As his co-worker and through all the years of being colleagues in the legal community, I have known him to be honest and professional. He has a tremendous rapport with jurors, judges, clients and other attorneys. All of those things are a great assets for the attorney representing you and your case. He is also courtroom warrior when the need arises. If you need a criminal defense attorney in Athens, do not hesitate to hire Mo Wiltshire to go into court with you."
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Jess Johnson
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Kim Stephens
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Michael Brown
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Janna Landreth
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Marc Cunat
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Ryan Hope
Government lawyer
Mark Post
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Ralph Powell
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Elizabeth Grant
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D. Slider
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Eric Crawford
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Jennifer Ammons
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Raymond Baker
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2020
Nation's Top 1 Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel
2019
10 Best Attorneys in Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
2019
Top 10 Criminal Defense Lawyer, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2019
Nationally Ranked - Superior Attorney, National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2019
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2018
Top 10 Defense Lawyer - State of Georgia, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2014
AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell
2014
Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, American Society of Legal Advocates
2013
Top 100 Lawyers, American Society of Legal Advocates
2013
Top 100 Lawyers, National Academy for DUI Defense
2013
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2004
Endorsed for District Attorney, Police Benevolent Association of Georgia
1994
Order of Barristers, University of Georgia School of Law
1994
Intrastate Mock Trial Champion, State Bar of Georgia, Young Lawyers Division
Work Experience
2018 - Present
Owner, Wiltshire Defense, of counsel Epps, Holloway, DeLoach & Hoipkemier, LLC
2007 - 2018
Partner, Prior Daniel & Wiltshire
2005 - 2007
Solicitor General, State Court Of Athens Clarke County
2000 - 2004
Partner, Garcia, Rose & Wiltshire
2000 - 2018
Special Prosecutor for Inquests, Athens Clarke County Coroner's Office
1997 - 2000
Associate Attorney, Garcia & Powell
1994 - 1997
Assistant District Attorney, District Attorney Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit
Associations
2007 - Present
Georgia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
1996 - Present
The Western Circuit Bar AssociationMember
1994 - Present
State Bar of GeorgiaMember
2005 - 2007
Athens-Oconee Domestic Violence Task ForceCo-Chair
2005 - 2007
Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of GeorgiaMember
Sample of Legal Cases
State v. A.K. (Jury Trial)
Not Guilty Verdict
State of Georgia v. O. T. (Athens)
DUI Dismissed...plea to a lesser charge
State of Georgia v. F. C. (Jury Trial)
Not Guilty Verdict
State of Georgia v. A. J. (Athens Clarke County)
DUI Dismissed...plea to a lesser charge
State of Georgia v. D. Brown
DUI reduced to reckless driving!
State of Georgia v. W. Whittenburg (Hart County, GA)
Felony charges reduced and dropped
State of Georgia v. J. C. (Jury Trial)
Not Guilty Verdict
State of Georgia v. N. Tatum
DUI Dismissed...plea to a lesser charge
State v. C.Harper (Vehicular Homicide reduced to misdemeanor...no prison)
All Felony charges dropped. Client plead to one misdemeanor
State v. O.B. (very recent DUI win)
Charges dropped and dismissed
State of Georgia v. S. R. (very recent DUI jury trial win)
Not Guilty Verdict
State of Georgia v. L.B. (DUI and Drug charges)
Charges dropped.
United States v. J.S. (Federal Criminal Case)
Charges reduced and dropped.
State v. Jakob Ledbetter (Not Gulty-DUI Jury Trial)
Not Guilty Verdict
State of Georgia v. T.L. (recent Felony Jury Trial win)
Not Guilty Verdict
State of Georgia v. R.K. (Drug Charges)
Reduced charges...no felony no jail.
Ex-NFL Great Cleared of Ethics Charges
Charges Avoided
State v. Bishop
Mistrial for Defendant
State v. Antonio Bishop
Not Guilty Verdict
State v. Randall
Felony charges reduced and dropped
Education
1994
University of Georgia School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1991
Millsaps College in Jackson
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2015
G. Christy Memorial Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2015
Athens Clarke County Police Dept
New Officer Investigation Course: Courtroom Training
2014
The Council on Alcohol & Drugs
Alcohol Liability Issues for Business
2014
Sigma Kappa Sorority
DUI/MIP Avoidance for Students
2014
G. Christy Memorial Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2014
Addiction Counselors Continuing Education
Ethical Considerations in DUI Probation
2013
G. Christy Memorial Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2013
Athens-Clarke County Police Department
New Officer Investigation Course: Courtroom Training
2013
Addiction Counselors Continuing Education
Georgia DUI Update for Therapists
2012
Phi Kappa Psi at UGA
DUI Defense for Students
2012
Lambda Chi Alpha at UGA
DUI Defense for Students
2012
Delta Tau Delta at UGA
Avoiding DUI/MIP Issues
2012
Delta Sigma Phi at UGA
Avoiding DUI/MIP Issues
2012
Beta Theta Phi at UGA
Avoiding DUI/MIP Issues
2012
Athens-Clarke County Police Department
New Officer Investigation Course: Courtroom Training
2012
Addiction Counselors Continuing Education
Georgia DUI Update for Therapists
2011
Georgia Civil Justice Foundation: The People's Law School
From Arrest to Prosecution: An Overview for the Citizen
2011
G. Christy Memorial Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2011
Athens-Clarke County Police Department
New Officer Investigation Course: Courtroom Training
2010
Gary Christy Memorial Trials Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2010
ACC Police Department
New Officer Investigation Course: Courtroom Training
2009
Georgia Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2009
Advanced Academy Graduate Training
Courtroom Testifying for Police Officers
2008
Georgia Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2008
Academy Graduate Advanced Training
Courtroom Testifying for Police Officers
2007
Georgia Trial Skills Clinic
Trial Advocacy Skills
2007
Academy Graduate Advanced Training
Courtroom Testifying for Police Officers
2006
Safe Campuses Now
Sexual Assault and Safety in Clarke County
2006
Academy Graduate Advanced Training
Cross Examination for Police Officers
2004
University of Georgia Student Government Association
Western Judicial Circuit District Attorney Forum
2004
Federation of Neighborhoods
District Attorney's Forum
2002
Athens-Clarke County Hospitality Resource Panel
Downtown Athens Safety Seminar
2001
Hospitality Resource Panel
Bar Owners Liability and Security Issues
Publications
2017
Athens Banner Herald
Athens man acquitted of sex charges despite DNA match
2017
Athens Banner-Herald
Murder charges dropped against UGA student
2016
The Red & Black
MIP compliance checks in Athens
2015
Athens Banner Herald
UGA Student charged with Murder faces overreach by police
2015
Athens Banner Herald
Felony charges dismissed against Commerce Alzheimer's Center owner
2014
Athens Banner Herald
Wiltshire secures pre-trial dismissal of hazing charges
2014
Athens Banner Herald
Wiltshire Defends UGA Students facing hazing charges
2013
CBS Atlanta
Wiltshire to represent Center Owner
2013
Athens Banner-Herald
Wiltshire Defends Commerce Alzheimer's Center Owner
2012
The Red & Black
Fake I.D. Legal Costs
2012
The Red & Black
Text Messages: Court Ordered Evidence
2012
Flagpole Magazine
Crime & Punishment in Athens, GA
2012
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer
Legal strategy in the Isaiah Crowell Case
2011
Examiner.com
Wiltshire Represents Lord of the Rings Defendant
2008
Athens-Banner Herald
Ex-NFL Great Cleared
2005
Augusta Chronicle
Wiltshire to represent accused fraud conspirator
2005
Athens Banner Herald
Wiltshire Appointed Solicitor General
2005
Athens Banner Herald
Gunfight at Hardees' Trial
2004
Athens Baner Herald
Victim's Advocates Endorse Wiltshire
2004
Athens Banner Herald
Athens Man Acquitted in Murder Trial
2004
Athens Banner Herald
Not Guilty: Murder Charges
2000
Georgia Court of Appeals Reports Docket No. A00A1524
McNeely v. Wal Mart Stores, Inc
2000
Athens Banner-Herald
Arcade Man Not Guilty in Vehicular Homicide
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
If someone accidently put money in my account through zelle and I used it and won’t give it back
15 Aug 2018
Q&A
After 4 months he was arrested he got out a week later after him being released he was indicted on all charges so what does that
16 Aug 2018
Q&A
My license was suspended permanently in CT, DMV told me to request a hearing after a certain date. want to know how to format it
08 Aug 2014
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
DUI Investigation Roadside Testing: The One Leg Stand Test
31 Aug 2018
Legal Guide
DUI Investigation Roadside Testing: The Walk and Turn Test
31 Aug 2018
Legal Guide
DUI Investigation Roadside Testing: The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test
31 Aug 2018