Lauren M. Wegener

Lauren M. Wegener

5.0
Rating: 9.4

Licensed for 17 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Seattle, WA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI

1333 Stewart Street, Seattle, WA

About Lauren

Biography

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 17 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 2008

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Bradley Johnson Attorney's

1333 Stewart Street, Seattle, WA, 98109

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Lauren M. Wegener's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

92 Client Reviews

Showing 36 - 40 of 92 reviews

Posted by Enrique | July 27, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Amazing!

Lauren Wegener did an amazing job at handling my case. She always kept me updated, always reminded me of my court dates, got me a better deal than what I was actually convicted of, she made me avoid a lot of headaches and stress I could have gone thru to where my case was the least of my worries in m...y daily living. Do what she says and your problem will be solved.

Posted by Bryan | July 24, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Seattle's Own Johnnie Cochran

I was released from jail the morning of March 17th having been charged with a DUI with - $2.67 in my bank account, no idea where my car was being held, and no idea what to do. I remember the radio ads for 1-800-DUI-AWAY and I'm glad I did! I was released from jail around 10:30am and called Bradley... Johnson Attorneys. They were able to see me at 1pm that same day for a free consultation! Upon entering their office I was greeted by Bradley Johnson himself. He had a meeting to get to but made an effort to introduce himself and assure me I'm in good hands. I was then introduced to Lauren Wegener. At first I was really embarrassed and ashamed when meeting her. Here she stood an attractive and an intelligent attorney with her life in order, while I looked lost, confused, and rather haggard, as if I'd been in jail all night. I told my story and shared all the documents I had been given from jail. Lauren was not only incredibly patient and friendly, she was so great at breaking down step by step of what I needed to do. She even told me exactly where to go to get my car! At the end of the consultation she discussed pricing with me. I explained I had no money and that I could maybe put together a few bucks by the next week. She smiled and told me that she will work with me. We were able to work out a very achievable payment plan and that she would go to work for me. I never did the breathalyzer when pulled over or even when brought to the station. **NOTE** I am no lawyer but in my experience I would recommend blowing at the station. If you don't, you'll be charged with the HIGHEST degree of a DUI automatically as your case will be graded as a non-compliant case. I didn't know this. Needless to say Lauren had her work cut out for her.. Lauren was in contact with me every step of the way. She was also with me at every court appearance, and if she was unable to be there, she notified me well in advance that a lawyer from her firm will be there ready to stand in court with me. I was never alone. Having been charged with the highest degree of a DUI on a first offense, I was facing a year in jail, and $5,000 in fines. Lauren was honest with me the whole way saying that prosecutors don't like to drop non-compliant cases, (which mine was as I didn't do the breathalyzer at the station) but that she was still going to fight hard for me. She realized that my rights were incredibly violated by the arresting officer and worked her magic. She sent me a copy of the letter she sent to the prosecution on my behalf. There were pages of lawyer jargon arguing on my behalf, stating many different cases of violated rights. When it was all said and done, the prosecution gave a plea deal that I happily took. I was charged with the highest degree of DUI, but walked away convicted of Reckless Driving (the prior being a felony, while the ladder a misdemeanor). With that conviction came 2 days of work crew (instead of a year in prison), and $200 fine reduced from $5,000. Even after the criminal courts made their ruling, Lauren still fought for me. She battled the Department of Licensing on my behalf as well. Mind you I'm still making my payments and she has always treated me like a client that's already paid. Lauren is incredible! I HIGHLY recommend her! I seriously wouldn't be surprised to see her name on a building someday. With how Lauren got my DUI dropped to a Reckless, she might as well be Seattle's version of Johnnie Cochran! Behind every great lawyer is a great team. Have to shout out her case manager: Nathan Close. He talked to me on the phone when I was lost in Seattle trying to find my courtroom. He has also been a BIG help working behind the scenes to help me make my payments. I lost my job when this nightmare transpired. Just got a new job, and Nathan has been incredibly understanding & helpful in making my payments work.

Posted by Peter | July 23, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Employment & Labor

Caring and compotent attorney

Lauren Wegener represented me for several cases in in 2012 and 2013. From the outset and all along the way, Lauren and the rest of the folks at Bradley Johnson were outstanding in all facets: communication, understanding, responsiveness, professionalism, thoroughness. Lauren was able to negotiate e...ffectively on my behalf both in and outside the courtroom, we achieved as favorable an outcome as could be expected for me. I worked with Lauren again just recently in 2017 when I was in need of her assistance related to a job for which I'd been offered employment, but subsequently had the offer rescinded due to my legal history. Although not a "current" client of hers and during her own busy work schedule, Lauren was able and willing to assist me on short notice with a letter and supporting documents. I was amazed at her ability to work quickly yet be so thorough. Her case manager, Kelly Olsen, was also very responsive. I cannot say enough about them and the rest of the folks that I've interacted with at Bradley Johnson. I recommend them with high praise!

Posted by Ian | June 29, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Beating the Odds

I was referred to Lauren Wegener a number of years back after spending over 7K on fighting an extremely complicated case that grew even more complex over the years to come. I bought what I thought at that time was the best money could buy, but I was wrong. Lauren helped me set up a financial plan tha...t I could afford. One that I could fight this case with and win. It has now been almost five years of fighting between two states and I can happily say “case closed”. The case we closed on started with numerous traffic violations, enough violations to classify as a habitual traffic offender, driving without a license in the 1st 2nd and 3rd degree, possession charge and a DUI. Lauren went to battle on this case picking up where three attorneys, very expensive attorneys had failed. She was able to reduce charges that had life changing consequences associated and help turn my life around. I was given a second chance. While still on probation a second DUI charge was incurred, this time out of State. Once again I turned to Lauren and she helped me fight a case where the odds were against us. Needless to say the outcome of this case exceeded my expectations. If you're looking for the best, you have found it. Her name is Lauren Wegener.

Posted by TheDynastyb | June 13, 2017 | Hired Attorney

Awesome Defense

Lauren is the poster child for professionalism. I hired Lauren and her dedication to her client is remarkable and she works relentlessly to achieve the desired results. I would highly recommend her services to family, friends, and acquaintances.

See All Client Reviews

Lauren M. Wegener's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Lauren
John Jacob Benefiel headshot
John Benefiel

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Lauren is one of the most knowledgeable and kindest attorneys I've had the opportunity to work with. Witnessing first hand the compassion she shows attorneys is simply inspiring!"

Ann Zajdel Gruben headshot
Ann Gruben

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren is one of the hardest working attorneys I know... a zealous advocate, never intimidated, always compassionate. Extremely professional demeanor and a lovely person, too."

Travis Ashley Newton headshot
Travis Newton

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 03

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Karlie M. Valdez headshot
Karlie Valdez

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren has the characteristics I would look for if I needed a defense lawyer: she's professional, compassionate, and has a broad array of experience. Lauren is well respected by her peers and a trusted colleague."

Sam Sokhansanj headshot
Sam Sokhansanj

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer."

James Egan headshot
James Egan

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren Gotchy is an impressive advocate who enjoys navigating client interests through even the most looming of circumstances. She once explained how she enjoyed doing felony defense because of the substantial hurdles she could present against the prosecutors' cases, resulting in reductions and other great outcomes. She has a disarming personality that works well with prosecutors and judges, and clearly does her homework. I highly recommend Lauren Gotchy for even the most serious of criminal defense concerns."

Henry King Chae headshot
Henry Chae

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. She is a force to be reckoned with. Her clients love her and she commands the respect of all the courts. Taking zealous defense to the next level, she fights hard for her clients. She is aggressive and sharp and you can't go wrong with having her on your side. I recommend her without reservations."

Stefanie Marie Dorn headshot
Stefanie Dorn

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Lauren for a number of years and she is consistently kind, hard working, and effective. Her warm personality lends itself to great relationships with judges and prosecutors, which allow her to get the best result possible for her clients."

Sarah D Cho headshot
Sarah Cho

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren Gotchy is compassionate, caring, and highly skilled in the courtroom. She is an exceptional attorney, and I highly recommend and endorse her."

Darren Michael Digiacinto headshot
Darren Digiacinto

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Lauren provides solid, timely, and professional representation to her clients. I recently met with a former client of Lauren's who had nothing but positive feedback about his experience."

Todd Jason Allen headshot
Todd Allen

Unknown lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I previously worked with Lauren and know her to be an outstanding attorney. You will get terrific representation with her."

Adam Ballout headshot
Adam Ballout

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Lauren's work. She is a compassionate and dedicated attorney who fights hard for her clients and gets results. Lauren is a well respected attorney with a very good working relationship with many attorneys in the community. I highly recommend her"

Raymond W. Ejarque headshot
Raymond Ejarque

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren is hard working, knowledgeable, and professional. She is very dedicated to her profession and goes above and beyond when representing her clients."

Mindy Michelle Carr headshot
Mindy Carr

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren Gotchy is an intelligent, dedicated, and aggressive advocate for her clients. I highly recommend her and her firm to anyone charged with DUI."

Bradley Johnson headshot
Bradley Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 22

Relationship: Co-worker

"Lauren is one of the most intelligent and dedicated lawyers that has ever worked at my firm. Her effort on every case and care for every client is truly one of a kind. I fully endorse Lauren, and recommend her to anyone who needs the best in DUI and Criminal Defense."

Justin G Elsner headshot
Justin Elsner

Criminal defense lawyer | May 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I often see Lauren in courts throughout western washington. It is always evident that she fights hard for her clients and makes them feel comfortable through an often scary and difficult process."

Patrick M Trivett headshot
Patrick Trivett

Probate lawyer | Feb 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. She is an excellent attorney, very approachable and committed to maintaining her clients' rights."

Ryon Lane headshot
Ryon Lane

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 07

Relationship: Friend

"I've known Lauren for over 6 years and have always been impressed with her passion and intelligence for the law. When faced with a challenge, she is unrelenting in identifying a plan of attack, evaluating all contingencies, and finding the best possible solution to the issue at hand. As an attorney, I am positive that if I am ever faced with a situation where Lauren's services will protect my personal interests, she will be the first one to whom I will turn."

Anthony DiPietro headshot
Anthony DiPietro

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 15

Relationship: Co-worker

"Lauren is a knowledgeable, aggressive, and highly professional attorney. I have personally worked with Lauren and was able to witness her skills as a criminal lawyer under the most difficult of conditions. I highly recommend this fine attorney."

Christopher Michael Small headshot
Christopher Small

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Lauren is a smart, savvy, experienced attorney who works hard to get their clients the best result possible."

View All Endorsements
John Jacob Benefiel headshot
John Benefiel

Criminal defense lawyer

Demetri Heliotis headshot
Demetri Heliotis

Criminal defense lawyer

Karlie M. Valdez headshot
Karlie Valdez

Criminal defense lawyer

Sarah D Cho headshot
Sarah Cho

Criminal defense lawyer

Todd Jason Allen headshot
Todd Allen

Criminal defense lawyer

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Michael Khalili

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Bradley Johnson

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Chloe Anderson

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Christopher Kattenhorn

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Anthony DiPietro

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Christopher Small

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Lisa Voso

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Gregory Schwesinger

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Corey Parker

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Alberto Guadagno

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Experience

Rating:  9.4 (Superb)

Honors

2007

Moot Court Board Member, Seattle University School of Law

Work Experience

2008 - Present

Attorney, Bradley Johnson Attorneys

2007 - 2008

Public Defender, Snohomish County Public Defender

2006 - 2007

Rule 9 Legal Intern, Feldman & Lee, P.S.

2005 - 2007

Rule 9 Legal Intern, Snohomish County Public Defender

2005 - 2005

Extern, Attorney General (Sexually Violent Predator Unit)

Associations

2008 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

King County Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

Washington Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Member

2008 - Present

Washington Women Lawyers (King County chapter)

Member

2008 - Present

Washington Women Lawyers (Snohomish County chapter)

Member

2000 - Present

American Civil Liberties Union

Member

2017 - 2018

King County Bar Association, Judicial Evaluation Committee

Volunteer Attorney

2007 - 2007

Seattle University School of Law, Moot Court

Board Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State v. Client

Felony charge was amended to a gross misdemeanor

City v. Defendant

Charge dismissed

State v. Defendant

Amendment of a felony to a gross misdemeanor

State v. Defendant

Not guilty

State v. Defendant

Not guilty

City of Marysville v. Defendant

Negligent Driving in the First Degree

State v. Defendant

SOSSA agreement

Petitioner v. Respondent

Case dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

2007

Seattle University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2004

University of Washington

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2016

Mentorship Speaker Event

University of Washington - Law, Societies, & Justice

Languages

German

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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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.
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