Skip to main content

Richard Thomas Dudek

Sex crime Attorney at Sacramento, CA

4.8   29 reviews
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1990
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Richard

Learn Richard’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    25%

    33 years, 5,000 cases

  2. Sex crime
    25%

    33 years

  3. DUI and DWI
    20%

    33 years, 1,000 cases

  4. Domestic violence
    15%

    33 years, 500 cases

  5. Federal crime
    15%

    33 years

A CERTIFIED CRIMINAL LAW SPECIALIST OFFERING AGGRESSIVE AND PROACTIVE REPRESENTATION. I GET RESULTS BY PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS AND PRESERVING YOUR FREEDOM.

Since 1990, the Law Office of Richard T. Dudek has made a positive difference in the lives of our clients in the greater Sacramento area.

We are aware of the stress and fear that you, or a loved one, faces when under investigation or charged with a criminal offense. Whether it is the loss of your freedom, the loss of your professional license or driver’s license, our attorneys are prepared and experienced to fight for your rights. Having a team of dedicated professionals working with, and for, you is the only way to protect your freedom.

Having handled thousands of cases from complex murder trials to simple DUI cases and trespassing charges throughout the state, our team has never forgotten that any conviction is likely to change someone’s life. Having represented many professionals such as lawyers, law firms, doctors, nurses, contractors and businesses charged with crimes, we know how important it is to your professional and personal life. Our attorneys search for every angle and every factor that may lessen a charge or lead to a dismissal. With vast experience in plea bargaining and trial, our team knows that only dedication and preparation of your case will lead to the most favorable outcome.

Our Approach

Attorney Dudek works diligently to protect his clients. You will spend a lot of time with your attorney, especially if your case goes to trial, so we can’t help but think of our clients as an extended version of our own families and close friends. However, we will never bring a client to trial if we can gain a dismissal. It is our goal in every case to demonstrate and show the prosecuting attorney to not pursue charges. We are adept at presenting the evidence that helps our clients.

Sometimes, intervening early and offering to plea to charges being contemplated might be preferable if there is a real possibility the prosecutor could bring additional and more serious charges should you plead not guilty. Prosecutors have limited resources and their goal is to seek convictions if the facts and circumstances warrant it.

If you have an alibi and can prove you were elsewhere at the time of the crime, your attorney can corroborate this and then schedule a meeting with the prosecutor to discuss. You might use this tactic if you can demonstrate that an accuser is mentally unsound or has a motive for alleging you committed some wrongdoing and the evidence is not credible or cannot be corroborated.

In matters where you are accused of a sex crime, a conviction or plea can lead to the requirement of having to register as a sex offender for life. If you are an immigrant, you face possible deportation if you plead to an offense without fully understanding the consequences. In many of these cases, these consequences can be avoided by a competent and skilled attorney with the knowledge to effectively and aggressively defend you and reach an amicable conclusion to your case.

Additionally, Attorney Dudek has extensive knowledge in defending pimping and pandering allegations, including human trafficking. Our office can handle your fraud case, which includes, theft, credit card fraud, medical billing or worker’s compensation fraud, as well as, any white collar criminal matter, whether it is a felony or misdemeanor. We represent adults and juveniles in both state and federal courts on all criminal charges and are familiar with the procedure for Proposition 57 and negotiating any enhancements the District Attorney most likely will be trying to add to your sentence during the negotiation phase of your case.

Consequently, generally, a prosecutor will take your case more seriously if you have a seasoned and established criminal defense attorney representing you. You have more opportunity for a reasonable disposition of your case, including dismissal, a plea to a lesser charge, an alternative sentence or one where jail or prison time is suspended indefinitely.

Awards

Client's Choice 2019,2017
Client's Choice
2019 2017

Photos and videos

Contact Richard

Richard Dudek, Certified Criminal Law Specialist

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  29 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2019
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | June 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney
Mr Dudek is the right choice for criminal defense. He knows how to work the system and negotiate on your behalf. I was facing 3 felony charges and he did his research, and a well done job negotiating with the DA. Ended up with a misdaminer and informal probation. He also recommended another great attorney for a civil forfeiture case I was also fighting.
Read less
Posted by Shannon | May 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The BEST lawyer
I was informed serious criminal charges were to be filed I searched criminal law specialists, found Mr. Dudek. He immediately went to work and convinced them they did not have a case. I still have my job and can sleep at night. He also took the time to explain a pretty confusing process in a way I could understand. I cannot recommend him highly enough, even if he had not been able to convince them not to file charges, he is the one I would insist on having as my lawyer. Shannon
Read less
Posted by Shane L | July 18, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Back in 2014/2015
Richard is a great well respected lawyer. I was facing multiple felony charges and a hefty sentence. I was in college at the time of my arrest Mr. Dudek was able to keep me out of the court room and jail long enough for me to finish my degree. He did exactly what he said he would. I was sentenced with a single felony that could be reduced to a misdemeanor in the future. I only had to do 6 months of ankle monitor where I was still able to work and provide for my family. Without Mr. Dudek I don’t think that would have been possible. It took me a long time to realize how much Richard really did for me and my family back then but I do now and I owe him a ton of gratitude (and a coco crisp gnome). I 100% would recommend Richard to anyone facing any kind of charges. He will fight for you.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | April 22, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
One of the best
Mr. Richard Dudek saved my life. I was facing 3-4 serious felonies and was only in jail for one month and then put on ankle because he caught a flaw in the system. He fought hard for me and kept me updated and made sure I had a very clear understanding of everything that was going on in my case. Me and my family put our trust in him to get me out of that situation and that’s exactly what he did without me having to go to trial we beat the case. I’m so appreciative of all his hard work and would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read less
Posted by Monet | June 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Resurrected Our Family’s Life
Eternally grateful to Mr. Dudek for his due diligence in saving our father from a life sentence. Our father (and us) will one day be able to move pass this and be together, again.
Posted by Judith | June 2, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent criminal attorney, Extremely knowledgeable at law
Mr. Dudek worked diligently for 3 years keeping the case away from a trial, successfully fighting for the least amount of incarceration time. Richard Dudek is an excellent criminal law attorney, extremely knowledgeable of the law, sincere & the hardest working attorney I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. Thank you again Mr. Richard Dudek your valuable expertise of the law & it’s people will always be appreciated.
Read less
Posted by Patricia | May 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved My Dad's Life
I hired Richard to represent my dad who was facing life in prison for several felonies. He knows the system well and did a great job at fighting for my dad. Because of him, my dad will have a second chance at life. My family and I are beyond grateful. I highly recommend hiring Richard as an attorney.
Posted by Meghan | April 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you!
Richard Dudek is the kind of lawyer you think don't exist, but he DOES!!!. He has a skillful command of the law and legal procedure, respect for his clients and their families, and integrity. And his fees are reasonable . SOUNDS GOOD TO BE TRUE? Its not, this is an excellent attorney . Thank you Richard for giving me back my life and my American Dream!! I thought all was lost and I believe that without you it probably would have been.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Worth. Every. Penny.
My fiance was arrested on a felony for something he should not have been charged for, so I hired Richard Dudek to represent him. He explained to us everything in detail and assured us it would not be nearly as bad as the court made it sound. Richard was able to get the charges dropped in less than a week! Our lives have returned to normal thanks to Mr. Dudek. If we need someone again, I have absolutely no doubt in my mind he will be the very first person I call.
Read less
Posted by Josh | February 27, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent advice
I contacted Mr. Dudeks office for a consultation. I was exceptionally delighted when I was greeted by Christen his paralegal. She was friendly, knowledgeable, and relateable. Not only did I receive the information I sought, but she went above and beyond. Should I need further assistance or to retain representation, I will absolutely be contacting Mr. Dudeks office.
Read less
Posted by Bonnie | December 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing!
I was charged with very serious offenses. As soon as I hired Mr Dudek, I knew I’d found the best! he and his wonderful staff eased my anxiety and have been absolutely amazing! I know when my case is resolved I will have had my life saved thanks to Richad, just based on what he’s already done on my behalf. He’s one of a kind. I’d recommend him to everyone!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | September 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my LIFE
He got the charges dismissed on a very serious rape case that lasted a few years. Was very attentive and fair and aggressive and getting exculpatory evidence to the DA
Posted by Derick | May 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
Mr. Dudek is a pleasure to work with. He'll break down your opinions into simplest terms and fight for you. If you run into trouble in the Sacramento area I highly recommend Mr. Dudek.
Posted by Dean | May 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent attorney
Mr. Dudek did an outstanding job with my case and brought it to the best possible outcome. He will certainly get any future business that is needed.
Posted by Nick | May 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best hire!
We hired Richard to defend my niece and from the start he did just that! He went over and above what we had expected! There was never a moment that we didn't think he was giving his all as our lawyer and doing everything he could to keep her from going to a very bad place for a very long time! Our family is very great full for everything he did! I would recommend Richard Dudek to any one! Thank you!!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hire The Dude!
Richard Dudek has been my lawyer for about 20 years. He has gotten me out of several scrapes with the law and kept me out of jail. He is not a babysitter. I wouldn't want one. He is a winner. If anyone in my family ever needed a criminal lawyer, I would make sure that they hired Mr. Dudek. I have watched him make prosecutors sweat and charges go away. Hire the Dude-hire a winner.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely the hardest working and smartest Attorney you could ever have on your side!!
Mr. Dudek not only help me get through some really difficult court appearances, he gave me my life and freedom back! He was very kind and helped my family even feel at ease about the whole situation. The way he handled my case, you could tell he truly cared about me and how the outcome could have gone, but thanks to him, the truth was proven and my life wouldn't be back on track as it is now if it was not for this remarkable Lawer! Don't be a fool, give him a call if you need help and want the Best Attorney possible!
Read less
Posted by Nikki | May 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superb Attorney
Rich Dudek is a wonderful, communicative attorney. I used him for both my first and second DUI convictions. In both cases, he was always very responsive. I never had any problems reaching him. He kept me up to date on my cases and always answered my questions honestly. My second DUI charge was complicated since it was less than three months after the first DUI and also because I was driving on a suspended license. Rich Dudek has an incredible knowledge of the legal system and did a fantastic job. I was very satisfied with the outcome of my cases and very grateful for his professionalism and expertise. I have recommended Rich Dudek to friends and would undoubtedly hire him again.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI felony
My son was only 19 when he had an accident and was charged with a DUI. I was so scared he was going to prison. It was very serious and he was not injured but the other party was. He worked with the DA and my son did NOT go to prison. He got what is called a Johnson 1 year and did his time locally in jail. I spoke to a few other attorney's and they even said it was a great deal. I am very happy with his Mr. Dudek and listened to his advise and stopped the alcohol use. I would hire him again.
Read less
Posted by Brian | February 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If Columbo was a lawyer
I couldn't figure it out at first. Then, on the day of my first court appearance, it was about to rain and Richard wore an overcoat. It suddenly came to me. If Columbo was an attorney, he'd be Richard Dudek. The only thing he didn't do was say "oh, just one more thing". If you haven't watched Columbo on TV, I will explain. Richard Dudek is sharp. He's shrewd. He's cool and calculating. You can't tell how good any attorney is until you've seen him work. I've seen Richard work, and he is good! He's experienced. He knows how to represent you in the most effective way. He helped me get the best outcome possible. If I ever need a criminal defense attorney again, I will hire Richard Dudek.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • sole practitioner
  • Law Office of Richard T. Dudek
  • 1991 - Present
  • Deputy
  • Riverside County Public Defender's Office
  • 1990 - 1991

Education

  • McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
  • JD with Distinction
  • 1990
  • Univ of California Berkeley
  • BA
  • 1985

Associations

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • N/A

Honors and Awards

  • Top Attorneys in Sacramento
  • Sacramento Magazine
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2008
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2007
  • Recognized
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2006
  • Recognized
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2005
  • Certified Specialist in Criminal Law
  • CA State Bar Board of Legal Specialization
  • 2001
  • Traynor Honor Society
  • McGeorge School of Law
  • 1990
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (24)
Given (34)
Endorse Richard
Sex crime Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Dudek is the Columbo of attorneys. He is superior in intelligence and confidence. Never underestimate Rich Dudek. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Dudek has proven himself to be a zealous and effective advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Dudek is a natural in front of a jury. I would not hesitate to endorse him for a criminal defense matter."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Richard. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"His knowledge of the criminal justice system is unsurpassed. As is his voracious appetite for justice."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Richard Dudek is a very experienced criminal defense attorney whose ability to cross-examine and argue difficult cases is unparalleled. Rich and I tried a difficult DUI trial together where the client's blood alcohol test showed a result well above the legal limit. Rich captured the attention of the jury in his closing argument like no other attorney I have seen. Ultimately the jury returned a not guilty verdict. If you have a difficult case you should consult with Rich."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Richard is a very knowledgeable criminal defense attorney and has a great understanding of the internal workings of the district attorney's office. I have worked with him on several matters and he is definitely a valuable resource. Plus, he is conveniently located across from the Sacramento Courthouse!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Dudek’s intelligence, experience, skill and advanced legal training in criminal law are all great advantages for his clients. He is extremely knowledgeable and tireless in representing his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Rich has a great reputation in the Sacramento criminal defense bar!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 28
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer for all his practice areas. He is very experienced, knowledgeable, and well-respected in the community. He is a zealous advocate for each of his clients. As an added bonus, he is a terrific guy."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. He is one of the most knowledgeable and intelligent attorneys that I know. He is genuinely bright, funny and works well with his clients. In the courtroom he exhibits such great presence and skills that it is truly a wonder just to watch him go through trial. As a mentor, he is kind, helpful and dedicated like no other."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 04
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Dudek provides elite representation for the common man. A straight shooter with trial experience and jury appeal. He is also a generous mentor to other attorneys."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mr. Dudek is a fellow criminal defense attorney. He has been my friend and colleague and mentor for more than 20 years. Rich is well known and respected by the entire criminal justice community including judges, court personnel, and even (or maybe especially) his adversaries in the D.A.’s office. He is a true giant killer in the court room. This skill and reputation directly benefit his clients in myriad ways. His people skills are as remarkable as his trial skills. He is a disarmingly effective advocate dealing with the prosecution outside the court room. He recognizes and exploits any and all weaknesses in the prosecution case creating reasonable doubt with the jury and improving settlement value with the D A. On more than one occasion, I have listened to jurors comment to the effect that they thought Rich’s client was guilty but acquitted because they were not satisfied that the prosecutor had met its burden of proof."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have know Mr. Dudek for over 15 years. I have always known him to perform his work well and always with his client's interests in mind. I highly recommend Richard."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mr. Dudek is a super lawyer and a strong advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Top shelf lawyer"
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Immigration
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Immigration
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Federal crime