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Howard A Snader
About Howard
Biography
Born and raised in Arizona, I grew up loving the practice of law. There is something about the competitive nature of law that really excites me. And, criminal defense is always a challenge. Walking out of court with the client's appreciation for the hard work put into his case is the best feeling.
I have 3 children, one grandson. I have retired from officiating high school and youth football, basketball and baseball. My football and baseball ended after 15 years when the demands of my practice just took too much time. I went 29 years in football. But with three knee injuries in my last 5 years of officiating, I had to retire in 2019.
When not practicing law, I try to practice magic.... still not great at it, but trying. And, I have recently taken up billiards.
Getting older means taking those steps to remain physically and mentally healthy. I work out most days. I just recently competed a personal challenge of doing 100 burpees a day for 30 days. Never had done them in earnest before. They kicked my behind. But amazingly, I will never stop doing them. Wonderful exercise.
I am constantly reading to keep my mind engaged.
Since August of 2021, I have published a daily motivational email to a growing list of subscribers. It started as a way for me to stay positive during some tough times, but I realized others could use the same motivation.
I am competitive... doesn't matter the activity. I don't like to lose.
I work hard. When I finally get some downtime, it is to travel and spend quality time with family and friends. With my wife of 20 years, we have agreed that when we travel, our goal is to find a unique restaurant in a new city to give a try. Not really a foodie, but whether it is a revolving restaurant at the top of building, or a restaurant in a cave, we just wanted to try something unique.
Practice Areas
1
Practice Area
Criminal Defense
100%
37 years | 10,250 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Retainer
Sometimes
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Arizona for 37 years
State: Arizona
Acquired: 1988
No misconduct found
Location
Attorneys for Freedom
3185 South Price Road, Chandler, AZ, 85248
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Howard A Snader's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
20 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (20)
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Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 reviews | 1 star
Posted by Vincent | June 07, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Terrible lawyer
Has recommended family andprison time on two cases that he promised probation was going to be what I got. Later in life I contacted him and tried to get advice about a DUI thought maybe he'd want to clean up his mistake with me he claimed he didn't even remember me in the case.ha gave me a half-hour...
Howard Snader
Replied last June 08, 2023I am sincerely disappointed that Vincent would write such a negative review. As Vincent did not leave any identifying information other than his first name, I truly don't know who this person is. Vincent claims that I recommended "family and prison time on two cases" and that we promised him probation. Simply stated, we would never promise a probation outcome. That is never within my control. If these are felonies, the second case may not even be probation possible. I have no idea what he means by "family time." As for a DUI, again without more information, I can't address his comments. Finally, Vincent notes that maybe I would want to clean up my alleged mistake on a DUI. Again, I really can't comment as I have no idea who this person is. I own my mistakes. And, over the past 30 years of practice, I have made a few. I stand by my work. If I truly made a mistake, I will own it. If the mistake is that a client was convicted and they were not happy with the result, I am sorry. But I defend clients accused of crimes. If a client is convicted, that is either because they accepted a plea, admitted guilt, and served a sentence. Or, a judge or jury found facts beyond a reasonable doubt and rendered a guilty verdict. I would have done my best to protect my client and minimize punishment. I can't and won't promise any outcome as the final decision is always made by a prosecutor, a judge or a jury. All we can ever promise is that we have the experience and knowledge to maximize your chance of the best outcome possible in your matter.
Posted by Disappointed. | May 28, 2013 | Criminal Defense
Over Promises, Under-Delivers and Rude
Mr. Snader over promised and under delivered and was extremely rude and arrogant. Oh, he was nice enough until we signed the fee documents, but after the down payment was made and the commitment completed he was very short tempered, acted very put-out when we asked questions about my case and was gen...
Howard Snader
Replied last May 29, 2013Several concerns have been raised. I will try to deal with them in the order they have been presented. First, it was claimed that I over promised and under delivered. The only promise I make to clients is that I will bust my behind to represent them and that I have the knowledge and experience to represent them zealously and with expert advocacy. In more than 20 years as defense counsel and having defended thousands of cases, I don't make any promise regarding an outcome. I can only explain the likely outcomes based on my experience. But each case is unique and the outcomes are controlled by the facts of the case, the prosecutor and the judge involved. Second, it has been claimed that I was rude and arrogant. As I need to occassionally remind clients, I do have a bedside manner that is blunt and to the point. If a client does not like be told the facts and opinions in a straightforward manner, they need to tell me at the time I am representing them. Instead, at least in this case, the client has waited 1-3 years to bring this to my attention. Meryl is a wonderful assistant who does need to frequently smooth my blunt statements and make the client feel better. My job is to present my client's case as an advocate: someone who can aggressively make the arguments on behalf of the client. As a litigator, I need to believe I can win every case. My clients would demand nothing less. To many clients, that may come of as arrogant. To the majority of client's I have represented, it comes off as confidence. Third, this client indicates that my case load was to big to manage. In 20 years, that has happened on two occasions. And, I am ethically bound to not take cases when I am too busy. On the two occasions it happened, both were in the mid-1990's at a time I was involved in 3 back to back trials, each of which went 3-4 months. I have never been accused of mixing up names, dates, or jails. So, I am sorry. But I have no idea where that statement is coming from. As for jails, they move inmates all the time without notice. Fourth, it is argued the plea was not what was promised when retained. As already noted, I don't promise outcomes when retained. I may discuss likely outcomes based on my experience. But, defendant's are not entitled to a plea offer. Although plea offers are normally made, I can't promise a certain plea will be made. I have trouble dealing with a complaint from an unidentified client made 1-3 years after the case is completed. All my fee agreements are in writing and contain a provision that allows for the possibility that I can be fired and client's may be entitled to a refund. I am unsure why now, this client has elected to submit a complaint that I was adversarial. If true then, it should have been brought to my attention and dealt with either by resolving whatever issue there was between myself and the client, or terminating my relationship. Finally, I will match my results against any public defender any day. I am sorry that you are now expressing your disappointment in this manner and in this forum.
Posted by advisedwrong | May 28, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes
Poor representation, arrogance abounds with this lawer.
Mr. Snader made promises that he didn't meet, had too many clients to keep straight. Complained about his caseload & many court appearances. He shared information with us about other clients that we did not care to hear. He did not interview any witnesses in our case, got us to spend $2575 extra for ...
Howard Snader
Replied last May 29, 2013For more than 20 years and defending thousands of clients, I have occassionally been advised that my blunt statements are rude or short. For that I am sorry. I believe providing accurate information without the emotion often tied to life changing decisions must be presented clearly. I try to never sugar coat anything. It is unfortunate that this client did not address their concerns during the period of my representation. Had their concerns been raised when I represented them some 6-12 months ago, I would have likely changed the way I communicated with them. As for their claim that the funds for the expert were misspent, I would submit that an expert opinion was likely needed to even obtain a plea offer. The expert used is recognized statewide for his integrity and ability. Without his evaluation, the plea offer would have been worse. I am sorry that my client believes the information was hurtful. But the information was obtained in a neutral manner. If the results were negative, that was a result of the testing and test results. And, that information was supplied by the client. I can't control whether the expert's report will be positive or negative. I can only advise that without an expert report, the plea offers are generally much worse. Again, I wish these concerns were raised during my representation.
Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2010 | DUI & DWI
Snader defense of my DUI case
I hired Howard for defense of my DUI case after referral to him from another attorney in Phoenix. he did little, and had other attorneys that were already at the courthouse on those days do my preliminary hearings. He did not file a single motion on my behalf, nor interview any witnesses. He "Negotia...
Howard Snader
Replied last May 25, 2010It is unfortunate that the reviewer did not provide any identifying information so that I could address the specific concerns raised. The reviewer notes that I defended his case 1-3 years ago. As I normally defend no less than 50 DUI cases a year, and have had no other issues with other clients, I only wish this client had brought his concerns to me. I have successfully resolved over 600 hundred DUI cases in the past 19 years and troubled that even a single client had issues with my representation.
Howard A Snader's Lawyer Endorsements
"Howard is a very intelligent, hard-worker who truly cares about his clients. I endorse this lawyer."
"Howard Snader is THE "got to" lawyer in the Phoenix area for sex crimes and criminal defense."
"I endorse this attorney, who generously gives time to the AVVO community and provides solid legal advice."
"I endorse this lawyer. Howard is an innovative and effective lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. We are member of the same lawyer educational group. He is a valuable member of that group."
"I endorse Howard! He would be my first phone call if I or anyone close to me were ever arrested or accused of a crime."
"Howard is knowledgeable and experienced. He also has very good staff."
"Howard is a no-nonsense attorney. He zealously represents his clients and achieves great results. He also has a clever business card that reminds you of your legal rights if you should find yourself pulled over for a DUI. Great attorney to know! I endorse this lawyer."
"Howard is a top-notch criminal defense attorney with the highest ethical standards. I have referred many clients to him and he is the first person I call when a client needs a criminal defense attorney. He is passionate about his practice and clients. Highly recommended!"
"Howard is a top notch attorney who wants the best outcome for his clients and will aggressively pursue their rights. Don't hesitate to seek his services if you happen to need a criminal attorney in the Phoenix area."
"Mr. Snader's continuing dedication to the law and his clients is admirable."
"Howard Snader is one of the most talented and hard working attorneys I know. He is well respected in the community and I would without hesitation refer clients in need of criminal defense to him!"
"I have the honor of belonging to a mastermind with Howard that meets regularly. I have found Howard to be an aggressive, dedicated, and a leader in Criminal and DUI defense. If you need a criminal defense attorney in Arizona, look no further than Howard. He will fight for you to the end."
"Howard Snader, Esq., is an excellent criminal defense lawyer who gets simply the best results for his clients. I endorse him."
"Howard is a very detail oriented attorney. He has been able to work virtual miracles for clients. I would feel confident in referring friends or family to him if they needed his services. Truly a STAR in Arizona!"
"Very good attorney that has great knowledge in the field of criminal defense."
"I endorse attorney Howard Snader. He donates his time to answer legal questions on Avvo from citizens seeking advise. A respected member in the legal community."
"Howard is one the best criminal defense practitioners in Arizona and is the only criminal defense lawyer to whom I would refer clients, friends, or family."
"I endorse Howard. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"Howard is a brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community. You can not go wrong with this level of experience and competence. I endorse this lawyer."
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Experience
Honors
2016
Top Attorneys of North America, Who's Who Directories
2015
Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist-Renewed, State Bar of Arizona
2010
Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist- Renewed, State Bar of Arizona
2005
Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist-Renewed, State Bar of Arizona
2001
Lead Counsel, LawInfo.com
2000
Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist-Renewed, State Bar of Arizona
1995
Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Law, State Bar of Arizona
1988
Admitted to the State Bar of Arizona, State Bar of Arizona
1984
Outstanding Young Man of America, Outstanding Young Men of America
Work Experience
2026 - Present
Senior Criminal Defense Attorney, Attorneys for Freedom
2023 - 2026
Director of Criminal Defense, Arizona Law Group
1997 - 2023
Owner, Criminal Defense Specialist, Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
1993 - 1997
Associate Counsel, Phillips and Associates
1990 - 1993
Associate, Law Office of O. Joseph Chornenky
1989 - 1990
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Maricopa County -Attorney's Ofc
1987 - 1988
Law Clerk/ Bailiff, Maricopa County Superior Court
Associations
2024 - Present
Maricopa County Bar AssociationDirector, Criminal Section
2010 - Present
Arizona Attorneys for Criminal JusticeMember
2008 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
1997 - Present
Maricopa County Bar Associationmember
1991 - Present
United States District Court, 9th Circuitlicensed attorney
1987 - Present
Arizona Bar AssociationMember
2017 - 2019
Guilded Gavel Society of Phoenixco-founder
2014 - 2015
North Phoenix Chamber of CommerceBoard of Directors
2013 - 2024
LeTip InternationalCamelback Corridor Chapter
Sample of Legal Cases
Arizona v. SK
Trial, 7 not guilty verdicts, 1 guilty verdict. Original offer was prison for a couple of decades. With the one conviction, client received probation and NO jail.
Education
1987
Lewis and Clark College
JD - Juris Doctor
1984
Arizona State University
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2014
State Bar of Arizona Luncheon
Criminal Law for the Sole Practitioner
2005
The Nuts and Bolts of DUI Cases in Arizona
DUI investigation, defense, and trial tactics
2004
The Nuts and Bolts of DUI Cases in Arizona
DUI defense and practices
2004
I Said What? Common Mistakes in Witness Interviews and Testimony
Witness Preparation and Testimony
Publications
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
SETTING ASIDE CONVICTIONS AND RESTORING CIVIL RIGHTS
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Marijuana Possession in Arizona
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Misdemeanors in Arizona
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
What Is the Impact of a Violation of Order of Protection in Domestic Violence Cases?
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
20 Shocking Sexual Misconduct Scandals
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence Charges Dropped Against Broncos Safety Will Parks
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Is Refusing Breathalyzer or Other Chemical Tests a Good Idea?
2018
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
What’s the Difference Between Sexual Misconduct, Harassment, and Assault?
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
You Just Got Sentenced. Now What? Part 2: The Post Conviction Relief (PCR) Process
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
When the Clock Runs: Time limits for criminal cases
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
You Just Got Sentenced. Now What? Part 1: The Appeal Process
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader
Just When You Thought It Was Over: Collateral Consequences Of Your Criminal Conviction
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
PROHIBITED POSSESSION: WHAT MAKES GUN OWNERSHIP ILLEGAL
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Why Criminal Pretrial Procedures Can Be Crucial
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Long-Term Consequences of a Felony Conviction
2017
Published by Author to Market
Busted: Secrets Cops and Prosecutors Don't Want you to Know
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU GET EVEN: ARIZONA’S NEW REVENGE PORN LAW
2017
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
HOW MUCH TIME AM I GOING TO GET?: ARIZONA’S SENTENCING LAWS IN A NUTSHELL
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
How Can I Possibly Defend Those People?
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Medical Privilege: Protecting Yourself When It No Longer Exists In A Criminal Investigation
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Criminal Procedure 101: A Basic Primer
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor: A Basic Insight
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence in the Workplace
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Criminal FAQs and False Assumptions
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Drug Possession and Factors Impacting Sentencing
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Does Domestic Violence Impact Children?
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
How to Fight an Extreme DUI in Arizona
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Simple Drug Possession/Paraphernalia Charges
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
When is Domestic Violence a Felony?
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Collateral Damage After a Conviction in Arizona
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence in Arizona
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence Charges Have YOU Down? Here's What To Do
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
FALSE CONFESSIONS: How Speaking to Police Can Ruin Your Life!
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Criminally Stupid: The Poor Choices Young Adults Are Bound To Make
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence – A Belated Valentine’s Day Gift
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Protecting Your Information From The Government: Search And Seizure: What You Need To Know
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Client Just Stopped For A DUI: Basic Issues To Consider
2016
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
How Can I Possibly Defend Those People?
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Criminal Sentencing in Arizona: Want to go to jail; you’re in the right State!
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Picking a Jury: Part Science, Part Art, Part Luck
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Allocution: Preparing Your Client To Address The Court At Sentencing
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
The Ultimate Guide to Posting a Bond in a Criminal Case
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
PROBATION: A Basic Understanding
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Probable Cause Hearings: What to Expect After Your Client’s Initial Appearance
2015
Snader Law Group Website
Preparing Your Client After Getting Arrested
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Common DUI Myths
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Choosing The Right Criminal Defense Attorney
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence: Always In The News…
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Probation: A Babysitter With Real Teeth
2015
Law Office of Howard A. Snader, LLC
Domestic Violence: The Unforeseen Consequences
2011
Inside the Minds (Aspatore Books)
Evidence Discovery in Internet Pornography Cases
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
Can you get a set aside for aggravated assault?
13 Feb 2022
Q&A
Charged with DUI. Didn't do field sobriety tests & blood results were 0.04 BAC. No bad history, can I get this case dismissed?
26 Jan 2022
Q&A
WHAT IS: No complaint was filed timely within 48 hours of the initial appearance; IT IS ORDERED vacating the preliminary hearing
18 Jan 2022
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Drug Bust in the West Valley yields 50 lbs. of Meth
28 Jul 2012
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Suggestions for Arizona Domestic Survivors
01 Jun 2012
Legal Guide
Trying to find a domestic violence lawyer?
19 May 2012