Michael Alarid III

Michael Alarid III

5.0
Rating: 9.8

Licensed for 17 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Phoenix, AZ
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Cannabis Law ... +2 more

20 E Thomas, Suite 2200, Phoenix, AZ

About Michael

Biography

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in Arizona for 17 years

State: Arizona

Acquired: 2009

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The Law Office of Michael Alarid III PLLC

20 E Thomas, Suite 2200, Phoenix, AZ, 85012

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Michael Alarid III's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

40 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (40) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 40 reviews

Posted by Lindsay | March 12, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Straightforward, Honest, and Highly Effective

Michael is the definition of professionalism and an outstanding defense attorney. I spoke with close to 10 attorneys before hiring him, and it was immediately clear he was different— he was very clear, honest, and realistic. He didn’t make promises or give a sales pitch (which is what I encountered w...hen I was searching for an attorney). The only thing he committed to was doing everything in his power to defend my case. Throughout the process, Michael was responsive whenever I had questions or concerns. In the end, he secured the best possible outcome for me, and I’m incredibly grateful to be able to move forward with my life. I highly recommend him.

Posted by anonymous | July 01, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Positive Outcome Due to a Great Attorney

I had never had to retain a criminal lawyer, so I scheduled meetings with three firms--a large downtown law firm, one group practice and Michael Alarid. After leaving the downtown firm wondering who I would be dealing with at the firm as well as how to get them paid, I met Michael. He met me immedi...ately on arrival. There was no "dog and pony show" trying to impress me with the number of different attorneys and partners and how many cases they had won. He made me feel at ease, listened intently and took notes as I outlined the facts from my perspective. He was up front and honest about how things would proceed, the steps he thought would be needed to support my defense, and possible outcomes. The difference between the two meetings made the decision very simple—I retained Michael immediately, and cancelled the third meeting. Michael believes in efficiency and honesty. Communication was handled through a personal on-line portal after the initial meeting, with the understanding that he was always a phone call away for any emergency or question. The on-line portal was user-friendly and provided timely communication. Responses to my concerns were addressed. Requests for information from me came through the portal, as well as court dates and times were all there to view, as well as text message reminders. The process was streamlined and efficient. Michael communicates clearly and honestly. I felt supported and believed and feel he did his best and due to that, the outcome of my case was positive! I strongly recommend Michael Alarid to anyone in need of legal assistance.

Posted by Kelsie | May 08, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Review

I had the pleasure of working with Michael, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the support and expertise he provided throughout my case. From the beginning, he was communicative, responsive, and made sure I always understood what was happening. He genuinely cared about my situation and treated me wi...th compassion and respect every step of the way. His guidance and professionalism helped me feel confident during a stressful time, and ultimately, we won the case thanks to his dedication and skill. I highly recommend Michael to anyone in need of a trustworthy and effective attorney.

Posted by Terry | November 20, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Highly Recommend

I highly recommend Michael. Michael walked us al through the process taking an enormous amount of time and patience answering all of our questions and going through the different scenarios. We choose not to go through trial however Micheal was ready and willing. He was able to get us the best out ...come available.

Posted by anonymous | November 08, 2024 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Excellent Attorney

Michael is a solid attorney; professional, honest, dedicated, creative and compassionate. He did an amazing job at helping me with my case which resulted in a reduced DUI charge and a dismissed felony criminal damage charge. He really cares for his clients and does his best to reach a favorable outco...me. His fees are very competitive compared to other attorneys. I highly recommend him.

See All Client Reviews

Michael Alarid III's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Elizabeth Marie Mullins headshot
Elizabeth Mullins

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Michael is diligent, creative, prepared, and the epitome of a zealous advocate. His professionalism and intelligence are well-respected in the legal community. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Joshua Anthony Barreda headshot
Joshua Barreda

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is one of if not the best criminal defense lawyer's in Arizona. His attention to detail and tenacity in the courtroom is what every prospective client ultimately needs. Too many good things to say about this guy!"

John Carbone headshot
John Carbone

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael possesses one of the greatest legal minds I have encountered in my years of practice. I strongly endorse this lawyer."

Shannon McShay headshot
Shannon McShay

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael Alarid is a highly skilled attorney. Not only is he compassionate and aggressive, but he is highly intelligent and well versed in criminal defense. Michael goes above and beyond to secure the best results for his clients."

Michael Alexander Alvarez headshot
Michael Alvarez

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is a highly experienced and aggressive criminal law attorney. He will be with you in your corner every step of the way."

Rhonda Elaine Neff headshot
Rhonda Neff

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 01

Relationship: Other

"I strongly endorse this lawyer. Michael and I worked together and his passion and knowledge are exceptional. He is a great lawyer! I highly recommend him."

Margo S Allen headshot
Margo Allen

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Attorney Michael Alarid III for many years. I have referred several clients in need of a criminal defense attorney to Michael and will continue to do so. I have full trust and confidence in Michael’s work, and always feel certain that the clients referred to him will be well taken care of."

David J Maletta headshot
David Maletta

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an excellent criminal defense attorney. He is an outstanding advocate for his clients and works tirelessly to get the best outcome. I strongly endorse this attorney."

Eric Allen Wootton headshot
Eric Wootton

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is another attorney who is an absolute master in the DUI world. Michael knows the statutes and case-law inside and out - and is able to use this vast knowledge to the benefit of his Clients. If you've been accused of a DUI - or ANY crime for that matter then Mr. Alarid is an excellent attorney to have in your corner."

Joey N Hamby headshot
Joey Hamby

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 22

Relationship: Co-worker

"I have worked alongside Mr. Alarid for the past five years. In that time I have worked on numerous major felonies, including homicides, serious sex cases and other cases. Mr. Alarid brings his sharp intellect and his intense focus to bear on each case. Mr. Alarid is a hard working and dedicated defense attorney whom I am proud to have on our team."

Daniel Ian Hutto headshot
Daniel Hutto

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 22

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is a fantastic advocate who goes above and beyond for his clients. He will be sure to exhaust all legal and factual issues on the case. In fact, he has secured industry changing victories on complex issues like medical marijuana and dangerous weapon/instrument crimes at the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court. I would recommend Michael to anyone."

Omer Ramiro Gurion headshot
Omer Gurion

Criminal defense lawyer | May 19

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is an excellent, hard-working attorney, who gets excellent results for his clients in the face of difficult odds. I strongly endorse him."

Christine C Whalin headshot
Christine Whalin

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 14

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is an excellent criminal defense litigator. He is extremely skilled in advocating complex areas of the law both in the trial setting and in written briefs. I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Joshua Anthony Barreda headshot
Joshua Barreda

Family lawyer

Michael Alexander Alvarez headshot
Michael Alvarez

Family lawyer

John Carbone headshot
John Carbone

Family lawyer

Shannon McShay headshot
Shannon McShay

Family lawyer

Rhonda Elaine Neff headshot
Rhonda Neff

Criminal defense lawyer

Thomas D Ryerson headshot
Thomas Ryerson

White collar crime lawyer

Margo S Allen headshot
Margo Allen

Estate planning lawyer

Courtney Ranae Sullivan headshot
Courtney Sullivan

Criminal defense lawyer

David J Maletta headshot
David Maletta

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.8 (Superb)

Honors

2021

Top 100, The National Trial Lawyers

2020

Top 40 Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers

2008

Distinguished achievement in the art and science of advocacy, International Academy of Trial Lawyers

Work Experience

2020 - Present

Owner | Attorney at Law, The Law Office of Michael Alarid III PLLC

2013 - 2020

Attorney, Law Offices Of David Michael Cantor

2008 - 2013

Attorney, Kimerer & Derrick

Associations

2023 - Present

Arizona State Bar

Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Law

2020 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Board Certified in DUI Defense Law

2020 - Present

Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice

Member

2020 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State ex rel. Montgomery v. Brain, 1 CA-SA 17-0186, 2018 WL 2348473 (App. May 24, 2018)

I argued successfully before the Arizona Court of Appeals to uphold the trial court's dismissal of the allegation of dangerousness against my client.

State ex rel. Montgomery v. Harris, 234 Ariz. 343, 322 P.3d 160 (2014)

I argued successfully to the Arizona Supreme Court to change the way the DUI for drugs statute was interpreted.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2008

Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor Colle

JD - Juris Doctor

2004

University of New Mexico

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2014

12th Annual APDA Conference

DUI Marijuana Issues: Metabolites and the Supreme Court

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution