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Russell Stephen Pietryga

Domestic violence Attorney at Saint George, UT

4.8   54 reviews
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State UT
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Russell

Learn Russell’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Domestic violence
    40%
    Domestic violence is the type of crime that can have unexpected consequences. An attorney practicing DV defense must always be cognizant of the Division of Child and Family Services and how they can turn a simple domestic violence charge into a prolonged nightmare in the juvenile court.

    24 years

  2. Criminal defense
    33%
    This pie graph can be a little misleading. I do 100% criminal defense. For instance, I represent juveniles that are charged with committing crimes. Additionally, DUI/DWI; Domestic Violence: Violent Crime; and Juvenile are all criminal defense.

    24 years

  3. DUI and DWI
    25%
    I practice exclusively criminal defense. I have represented individuals charged with crimes in both the juvenile and adult courts throughout the State of Utah. I spent 5 of my 14 years practicing exclusively DUI defense. Lastly, I started, like most criminal defense attorneys as a public defender. Being a public defender, in my opinion, is the best way to develop a relationship with judges and prosecutors that you deal with throughout your career.

    24 years

  4. Juvenile law
    1%
    For approximately 7 years I had a contract to represent indigent individuals in the juvenile court. Juvenile defense is a specialty and anybody looking for an attorney should ensure that there criminal defense attorney understands the juvenile system.

    24 years

  5. Violent crime
    1%
    90% of the time domestic violence charges involve some type of violent crime. Usually, an aggravated assault.

    24 years

Pietryga Law Office has a long history of successful DUI and Criminal Defense in Utah, and is the defense attorney trusted by judges, prosecutors and police officers when they are in trouble. We are not afraid to set your case for a jury trial, and are never intimidated by the prosecution. Call and ask when you can attend one of our upcoming jury trials, and see for yourself how our experience and expertise can change the outcome of your case.

We are passionate about your rights, and will actively work to help you keep your license and keep you out of jail. You will work one-on-one with your defense attorney. We will not pass you off onto a Paralegal, assistant, or law student. All of your legal options and recourses will be discussed with you personally.

Call us at for a free case review.

Contact Russell

Similar lawyers nearby

Pietryga Law
619 South Bluff Street
Saint George, UT, 84770

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  54 customer reviews
Posted by Brad | October 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Smart Lawyer
Mr. Pietryga is the best lawyer in St. George! He is extremely smart and knows everything there is to know about the law. If you need an excellent, detail oriented and thoughtful lawyer this is the lawyer. I will always use him when anything comes up with family or friends. I always refer him to anyone that needs a lawyer.
Posted by anonymous | May 24, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best decision I've made for a DUI case
Russell Pietryga was the best choice I've made when I got convicted for a DUI. All of the evidence was against me on this case and I didn't even know if it was worth spending money hiring an attorney for such a blatant mistake I've made. I felt like I completely destroyed my future plans and was incredibly depressed and felt bad for even trying to defend myself. When I first met him, I gave him the details and he didn't try to sugar coat or BS me about the situation and I never felt judgment from him. He gave me a few ideas on what we could do and got to work right away. Long story short, I was able to get my DUI dropped to an impaired, kept my license and drastically reduced the headaches I've could've had with a DUI charge. I guarantee that I'll never let this mistake happen again and feel extremely fortunate that I was able to keep my record fairly clean, but if any of my good friends or family members get in this type of position in the future, he's the only one I would recommend.
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Posted by anonymous | March 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch, and no BS
Russ did me a solid. My case was complicated and the facts were not in my favor. He shot straight with me from day one. I appreciated his candor and ability to see a strategy from the outset. We got a great outcome. I would definitely hire him. He will be honest and not sugar coat. He is able to come up with an angle on any case regardless. Definitely hire Russ. You won't be disappointed.
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Posted by anonymous | March 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
I’m very satisfied on the way Russell Pietryga handled my case, the charge ended up off my record, it cannot get better than that!
Posted by anonymous | January 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent!
Russ was extremely professional & quick acting. Very reasonable on price & one hell of a lawyer.
Posted by Sunny | January 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent, experienced, professional lawyer!
Russell, is an awesome guy and a great lawyer, he has helped me with a couple of my cases all with good outcomes, as well as some for my friends and family that I referred over to him. He is very knowledgeable and will do the best he can to get back to you in a timely manner with any help that you may need. Also very reasonably priced, not going to break your pocket. Seriously give him a chance, you'll be glad you did. Thanks for all your help Russell, we are very grateful. Keep kicking ass brotha! Sunny
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Posted by anonymous | May 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Russ Pietrgya is outstanding!
I was falsely charged with domestic violence misdemeanor B and the disorderly conduct. As being an international student, the case could have destroyed my dream but it was Russ who dismissed all the charges. It was a huge weight lifted off from my shoulder. I could not be more happy than the way he carried out the case and dismissed all the charges. Russell Pietrgya has very powerful presence in the courtroom and he understands very well how to handle the case. He keeps the things very simple. I would definitely recommend Russ for those who are looking for a criminal attorney. Definitely A+ for this wonderful attorney. I truly appreciate his help and genuine effort for dismissing the charges.
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Posted by Nicole | January 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended!
Our family was going through one of the hardest times we have ever had... due to some juvenile issues with my son. I looked online and found Russ through Avvo. He was a god send and returned my call within minutes during a weekend evening. I explained our circumstances and Russ immediately had a prioritized plan of action. He was familiar with juvenile laws and court proceedings. Russ was a god send I must say and we are truly thankful for him and his services. He is very professional, straightforward and has a very strong courtroom presence. I highly recommend Russ and am thankful he was there to help our family in a time of need. Thanks Russ!
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Posted by anonymous | June 26, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If you need a criminal defense attorney in the State of Utah. Russell Pietryga, & Pietryga Law Office, are by far the best.
I unfortunately was charged criminally with Domestic Violence - Electronics Communication Harassment by my roommates while I was out of state and for the completely absurd reason I may or may not have burned a tea kettle, even after calmly attempting to rectify the situation, it exploded into a long drawn out argument which I stopped taking seriously and started responding to with humor/meme's after all my attempts at rectifying the situation were met with more anger and vitriol. I didn't expect criminal charges or a Protective Order to follow when I returned back to Utah, but they did and had proven some of my concerns regarding my roommates trustworthiness and desire for me to move out, especially my fear the would attempt a forced eviction which the Protective Order essentially was. Now I am not a violent person and never was violent in any of my communications, I honestly had tried my best to handle the situation offering to replace the tea kettle, which looking back I doubt I was responsible for as I was at work all day, and then the validity of the charges as I was out of state during the alleged "DV-ECH". Because of the severity of the crimes I was charged with and the long term effects they would have on my life personally and professionally I decided to search for legal defense, and found Pietryga Law after a few days of searching. From experience I have learned that you can measure the competence and capability of a professional based on how well they treat you before you have even hired them, and based off my experience before choosing and signing any paperwork, Mr. Pietryga and Pietryga Law's Attorney Mark Brown were completely open and honest and took the time to explain to me everything I could expect and need to know, proving in my mind they were the professionals I was looking for to handle my case; and the same can be said for the civil attorney they recommended to me Justin Ashworth who proved himself the same. My Protective Order hearing came first and Mr. Ashworth came down on a 4 hour drive, where he managed to have the Order Dismissed with Prejudice in my favor; and afterwards the D.A. notified Russell they were dropping the charges. Unfortunately they only did this to refile them 1 day before a scheduled court hearing, at which point Mr. Pietryga had an awesome local attorney show up to help me enter a Plea of Not Guilty, and owing to the distance having moved to Salt Lake City for the previous 5+ months the Judge waived my requirement to show up until the Jury Trial. Upon the day of the Trial Mr. Pietryga had shown up early for deliberations, and throughout the entire process made sure I was kept aware of the situation and defended me against the D.A. as perfectly and professionally, and aggressively as I could imagine. After a long trial, and after having stood testimony myself, the jury broke for deliberations and returned a Unanimous Verdict of Not Guilty of all charges. This whole situation taught me to trust my gut instincts, and be more careful in who I choose to invite into my life; there are some incredibly foul and loathsome individuals, particularly who care nothing for others and only seek personal gain, without regards to the toll it might have on others. Mr. Pietryga understood this and I believe, believed in my total innocence, and I couldn't recommend a better Criminal Defense Attorney in the State of Utah, he was the perfect professional for the job and made sure all my rights were restored in full, against such a foreign legal process. I'm glad to have been a witness to the trial and how the law works, but if you are charged with a crime, I can't stress enough the value of a good lawyer and as far as I can tell, Mr. Pietryga and his firm, and legal network are as professional and hard working as you could ever hope for. In my opinion he is the absolute best, and I have no regrets in hiring him, nor would I be in recommending him in the future.
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Posted by Karsten Hansen | April 30, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Russ Rules!!!
For contacting Russ the day before I had my first hearing in court for my dui he was amazing, he contacted the prosecutor and court and obtained an extension (mind you this is 4pm the day before court, so way short notice) and continued to keep me updated and appear at my preliminary hearings. I live in Moab so for him to come down on a four hour drive to go to court with me was very reassuring. Even the judge commended him for showing up to the court, apparently a lot of lawyers from salt lake city don't show up, Russ did and he performed, as I was buttoning up my dress shirt to go to court I received a call and he told me all my charges were dismissed, such a relief off my shoulders, if any of my friends or family, myself included, get in any legal trouble I can guarantee I will be going to Russ or they will!
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Posted by anonymous | April 27, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding! Would reccomend his services to anyone.
Russell has been a tremendous help with my case. I was pulled over and charged with a minor traffic infraction while in Utah. I live in New York and the court was requiring my presence at the court date. Without the financial means or time to get back to Utah, I contacted Russell. Russell was excellent in explaining the outcomes of the situation and expressed sincere interests in ways he could help me. Within a couple hours Russell was able to contact the prosecuting attorney and helped me to resolve the case without a return trip to Utah. It was evident in talking to Russell that he is highly experienced and has a strong network of connections in the legal field. The thing that stood out to me, was that even with being unable to meet with him in person, he truly cared about helping me to resolve this situation in a timely and cost effective manner. I would highly recommend Russell to anyone in need of legal consult as his level of dedication goes above and beyond.
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Posted by anonymous | December 31, 2014
Russ is Awesome!
I couldn't ask for a better defense attorney than Russ Pietryga. You can tell he really takes pride in helping his clients and fighting for them. This is not a lawyer that is just going to stand next to you while you plead guilty! I was amazed how quickly he was able to get my case resolved, I thought my life was ruined and I was going to jail. Hopefully I won't need a criminal lawyer again, but if I do I will call Russ. He is awesome!
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Posted by John n. | June 3, 2014
The firm that has my trust with out a doubt.
I have use Mr. Pietryga twice in my lifetime so far, and never had a second thought on if I was hiring the wrong person or if I was wasting my money. I was very confident and trusting of Mr. Pietryga abilities and knowledgeable of our court system. The one biggest quality that draw me back to Mr. Pietryga, was always up forward and honest person and still down to earth, so the whole lawyers being all greedy thing was nothing but only a joke. In the end I'm grateful for finding his law firm, cause now I know who I can trust and know he will do everything in his abilities to fulfill my needs in my case.
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Posted by anonymous | May 30, 2014
Domestic Violence Case DISMISSED!!!!
I called Russ after I was wrongfully charged with Domestic Violence. Because these cases are treated very seriously (and quite rightly so) it is necessary to have Legal council and a Lawyer that knows the ins and outs of the system and how to get you the best results. Russel was confident from the get go and very reassuring even when my relatively simple case took several appearances to resolve. I was happy and relieved when my charges were dismissed without prejudice, thanks to Russel's hard work. If you need a competent Attorney to resolve your DV case Russel is the right guy for the job.
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Posted by Tyler | May 20, 2014
Highly Recommend
I called Russ a couple days after I was arrested for a DUI. He immediately wanted to meet up and go over everything that happened. He asked me what I wanted the outcome of this to be. I said "I want this to stay off my record." It was a long process but in the end I couldn't be happier. My record is clean and I owe it all to Russ! He does great work!
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Posted by Corey | April 23, 2014
The BEST - Effortless on my part
I called Russ one day after getting booked overnight for a DUI. After listening to my version of what happened and looking over the police report he developed a gameplan that went through perfectly. My case was dismissed! It only took 3 weeks and minimal effort on my end. Russ contacted me whenever new information was available and kept me in the loop, but also kept me out of the courtroom and even handled my license hearing for free which was great because it was held over an hour away from where I live. Communication and timeliness were top notch. I recovered the fee to for having my car towed and got my license back before the temporary license expired. My driving record remains clean! I could not be happier with the end result. A+++ overall.
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Posted by anonymous | April 18, 2014
To who it may concern;
Russ has so far represented me on two (2) separate alleged criminal matters that spanned Justice & District court with seven (7) severe counts of Domestic Violence labeled offenses. Russ's performance is stellar. In the circuit it is obvious he is well-know and liked. He has always been available to me to talk or text. I was convicted in Justice court in the first matter : 3 counts DV (with a different lawyer), Russ appealed the 1case to district court.. with no bail warrants in 2case - Russ negotiated bail, got warrants dropped, never missed a beat, and ultimately negotiated My entire mess away to a one (1) count disorderly conduct (without a trial). It should also be know his fee was realistic and reasonable and only contingent to decline. Thank You Russ!!! Feel free to forward my contact to anyone who questions this review.
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Posted by Ernest | April 15, 2014
Top Notch Defense Attorney
Russ represented me aggressively and tenaciously in a criminal matter which resulted in a very favorable outcome (Plea in Abeyance). Although faced with many delays and obstacles, Russ relentlessly advocated for my interests. He took a personal interest in my case and kept me well-informed throughout the entire process. Clearly, I made a good decision in hiring him and would highly recommend him.
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Posted by Nick | March 27, 2014
A+++ Would highly recommend
Open and honest worked hard to resolve my case. Kept me informed on what was going on with my case. Really made me feel that he had my best interested at heart. Would highly recommend!!
Posted by Angela | March 20, 2014
Assault case dropped!
Russ got my case dismissed for an assault charge. I never worried when he was handling my case. He is so powerful in both courtroom presence and knowledge, I felt completely taken care of. I never thought an assault charge could be dismissed, but Russ did!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 120 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 100-325 per hour
  • Pro bono 20 %
Payment methods
Cash, Check

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.6 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Attorney
  • Pietryga Law Office
  • 2006 - Present
  • Attorney
  • ALA Legal
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Attorney
  • Lokken & Associates, PC
  • 2000 - 2006
  • Attorney
  • Kelley & Kelley, LLc
  • 1998 - 2000
  • Paralegal-Criminal Defense
  • Law Office of Barry L. Furgson
  • 1994 - 1995
  • Paralegal-Criminal
  • David W. Horton & Associates,
  • 1992 - 1994
  • UDT/SEAL
  • United States Navy
  • 1986 - 1994
View all work experience

Education

  • Thomas M. Cooley Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • Eastern Michigan University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1995
  • Survival, Evasion, Resistance & Escape
  • Certificate
  • 1990
  • Naval Special Warfare Center
  • Certificate
  • 1990
  • United States Army Infantry School
  • Diploma
  • 1989
  • Mid-South Institute of Self-Defense Shooting
  • Certificate
  • 1989
  • Naval Special Warfare Center
  • Certificate
  • 1988
  • Naval Special Warfare Center
  • Certificate
  • 1988
  • Naval Special Warfare Center
  • Certificate
  • 1988
  • Naval Air Technical Training Center
  • Certificate
  • 1987
View all education

Legal Cases

  • Moab City v. K****** H*****
  • Dismissed
  • Taylorsville City v. J***** M****
  • Reduced and Dismissed
  • Murray City v. A*** ******
  • Dismissed
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Association of Trial Attorneys
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • General Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Association of Counsel for Children
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Council of Affiliates
  • Attorney Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Utah State Bar
  • Member
  • 1998 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • Top Contributer
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Admited Member
  • National Association of Counsel for Children
  • 2014
  • Clients' Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Top 10 Utah Criminal Attorney
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2014
  • Admitted Member
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • Admitted Member
  • Criminal Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • Admitted Member
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2014
  • Superb
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Top 75 DUI Atorneys
  • The National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • Appointed Mentor
  • Supreme Court of Utah
  • 2014
  • Top 10 Attorney Award
  • National Acadamy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2013
  • Top100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Avvo Top Contributor
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Clients' Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Appointed Mentor
  • Supreme Court of Utah
  • 2013
  • Aditted Member
  • Criminal Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Admitted Member
  • Criminal Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Admitted Member
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2013
  • Admitted Member
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Admitted as member
  • National Association of Counsel for Children
  • 2013
  • Winter Session Graduate
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2013
  • Top 75 DUI Attorneys in Utah
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2013
  • Excellent Rating
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Admitted to Practice
  • Federal Circuit Bar Association
  • 1999
  • Admitted to Pratice
  • Utah State Bar
  • 1999
  • Honorable Discharge
  • United States Navey
  • 1994
  • Letter of Commendation
  • U.S. Navy
  • 1990
  • Designation as Navy & Marine Corps Parachutist
  • U.S. Navy
  • 1990
View all awards

Publications

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Parental Defense Conference
  • Cross Examination
  • 1999

Attorney endorsements

Received (44)
Given (64)
Endorse Russell
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 25
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Bottom line, if I am ever in trouble, I will hire Russ. His attention to detail, commitment to quality and unrelenting advocacy for each client is unmatched. Russ represents each client as though he were personally charged. He is a student of the law and has dedicated his life to mastering the craft."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I’ve worked with Russ on multiple cases and would recommend him to even my closest friends. Many attorneys biggest concern is not necessarily for the client, but for keeping up professional relationships with opposing counsel. I have found Russ’s greatest concern is to zealously advocate for his client. He is the type of attorney who constantly asks himself the question, “If I was the client, would I be happy with myself as an attorney.” As an attorney, when I have a question about anything concerning criminal law, whether it is about a point of law, a strategy for a particular kind of case, or the finer points of cross examining a witness, He is one of the first resources I look to for advice and counsel. If I ever found myself in a position in which I needed legal help in the criminal field, Russ Pietryga would be the attorney that I would call."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Highly skilled and reputable attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Russ is the man, what can I say more than that! He is fearless in setting DUIs for trial, which is so often needed when city prosecutors are unwilling to really give any meaningful deal on the case. Rather than argue with the prosecution, Russ often will set the matter for trial and many times the prosecutors will give in knowing Russ won't have any problem trying the case and appealing, if necessary. Go Russ!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Russell. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | May 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top notch attorney, who provides excellent legal service and successful representation. I happily endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Pietryga does an excellent job of communicating the law and he consistently exceeds expectations."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He epitomizes what it means to be a defense attorney - a throwback to the days when people cared about the Constitution, a person's word, hard work, and giving your best day in and day out."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the community."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Pietryga is a skilled criminal defense attorney. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. An outstanding and well respected attorney in the legal community. I would recommend him wholeheartedly to annyone needing legal representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I would have Mr. Pietryga represent me on any matter. I have found that he is an aggressive attorney in protecting his client rights."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. He is one of the brightest and toughest attorneys out there."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He works hard and knows his stuff."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 26
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Russ is a very experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney and I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
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Divorce and separation
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Criminal defense
Communications and media
Car accident
Criminal defense
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Saint George Domestic violence Lawyer Russell Stephen Pietryga
Russell Stephen Pietryga
Domestic violence Attorney
Saint George, UT
Licensed for 24 years
Free Consultation