Cases We Handle
Exclusively Focused on the Area of Criminal Defense
Criminal Defense Attorney in Rogers
Protecting Your Rights, Record, & Future in Northwest Arkansas
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in or around Rogers, you are probably worried about what will happen next. You may be thinking about your job, your family, and whether you could go to jail. In this situation, you want a criminal defense attorney in Rogers who understands both the law and the local courts.
At Cody W. Dowden, Attorney at Law, I focus my career on criminal defense work in Northwest Arkansas. I represent people facing everything from first-time misdemeanors to serious felony accusations. Before opening my own firm, I served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, and I now use that background to anticipate how the State may build a case against you.
When you contact my office for a free, confidential consultation, you speak with me, not a call center. I take the time to understand what happened, explain your options in plain terms, and begin working on a plan to protect your rights, your record, and your future. Call now at (479) 777-0640 to begin your defense.
Criminal Charges I Handle in Rogers
Criminal cases are not all the same. The steps we take depend on the type of charge, the evidence, and your history. I focus my practice on defending a wide range of accusations that arise in Rogers and throughout Northwest Arkansas, from relatively minor offenses to complex, high-stakes matters.
Some of the criminal cases I handle include:
- DWI and alcohol related driving offenses
- Drug possession and distribution charges
- Sex related accusations, including certain felony offenses
- White collar and financial crime investigations
- Felony cases involving alleged violence or property damage
- Misdemeanor offenses that still threaten your job or record
Over the years, I have helped clients obtain outcomes such as case dismissals and resolutions that kept serious charges, including reckless driving, off their driving records. Every situation is different, and no lawyer can promise a particular result. What I can promise is that I will take your case seriously and work to protect what matters most to you.
How I Defend Criminal Cases
When you call my office about a criminal charge, my first goal is to lower the stress you are feeling. During our free initial consultation, I listen to your explanation of what happened, review any paperwork you have, and ask questions so I can see the full picture. I do not judge you based on the accusation. My focus is on understanding your priorities and the facts of the case.
Shortly after we speak, I work to provide a clear action plan, so you know what to expect over the next few weeks. This often includes what will happen at your first court date, which courthouse you will appear in, and what information I will be gathering. Many clients tell me that simply knowing there is a plan helps them sleep better at night.
As your criminal lawyer, I typically start by obtaining the discovery, such as police reports, videos, and witness statements. I compare what the documents say with your account and look for inconsistencies, legal issues, or missing information. My former prosecutor experience helps here because I know what evidence the State usually relies on and what may be missing from the file.
Once I have reviewed the evidence, I discuss potential strategies with you. These can range from negotiation with the prosecutor, to filing motions to exclude or challenge certain evidence, to preparing for trial when that is the best path. Throughout, I explain your options in plain language so you can make informed choices. You stay involved at each stage instead of being left in the dark.
When you hire me, you do not get passed off to another lawyer. My promise is simple. When you hire me, you get me. I appear with you in the Benton County courthouse or Washington County courthouse, I prepare you for each hearing, and I keep you updated on every development. My selections to Super Lawyers for 2024 and 2025, as well as Rising Stars from 2017 through 2021, reflect the dedication I bring to this work.
Talk With a Criminal Lawyer in Rogers About Your Case
If you are facing a criminal accusation connected to Rogers or another part of Northwest Arkansas, you do not have to face the court system on your own. I offer a free, confidential consultation where we can discuss what happened, the charges you are dealing with, and the options that may be available under Arkansas law.
During our conversation, I will explain how my former prosecutor background, years in local courts, and focused criminal defense practice come together to support your defense. You will hear directly from me about how I handle cases, what the next steps might look like, and how fees and payment plans work.
Call (479) 777-0640 or fill out this online form to schedule your free, confidential consultation with Cody W. Dowden, Attorney at Law.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
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"After reading a multitude of positive reviews I decided to call Cody...I'm thankful I did!"
My family and I were visiting Arkansas from Texas when I was pulled over for speeding. The ticket said "15 over limit", which in Arkansas equates to an automatic "reckless driving" charge (maximum $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail). Upon learning this I panicked and immediately began looking for competent representation via the internet. After reading a multitude of positive reviews I decided to call Cody...I'm thankful I did! Upon hearing my story Cody assured me everything would be okay and then immediately went into action. When all was said and done, the charge never appeared on my driving record and I paid a small fine. I was also not required to return to Arkansas for my hearing as Cody handled everything. If you ever find yourself in need of a GREAT attorney in NW Arkansas, you should definitely call Cody Dowden!- DavidMontgomery, TX -
"He kept me updated along the way. I was most impressed by his quick responses and level of communication."
Five Star! I hired Cody Dowden for a traffic ticket I received while driving through Arkansas. When I called his office to see if he would represent me, I was surprised I was able to talk to Cody directly. Hours after my phone call he sent me a detailed plan of what he was going to do as well as what he needed from me. He kept me updated along the way. I was most impressed by his quick responses and level of communication. I would recommend Cody Dowden to anyone with a traffic ticket in the NWA area. He will represent you well.- estringSpringfield, MO -
"Cody did a fantastic job for us! Was honest with us during the whole process."
Cody did a fantastic job for us! Was honest with us during the whole process. Worked with us closely ensuring we had a successful result! If you need an honest, hard-working, results-driven lawyer, Cody is the one you need!- BrentRogers, AR -
"Cody is the man. By far one of the best lawyers I've ever worked with."
Cody is the man. By far one of the best lawyers I've ever worked with. I wish he did more than criminal defense so I could retain him for my business!!- KJGBentonville, AR
Why Choose Cody W. Dowden, Attorney at Law?
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Affordable Fees & Payment Plans
Protecting your legal rights shouldn't take every penny in your bank account. That's why I offer reasonable fees and payment plans.
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Accessible Legal Defense
Life is busy and it can be hard to take the time you need to meet with your attorney. That's why I offer phone appointments for your convenience.
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When You Hire Me, You Get Me
You won't be passed off to another lawyer or spend all of your time talking to a paralegal. I am your attorney. I'll be there every step of the way.
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100% Focus on Criminal Law
Unlike other firms that handle every type of case in the book, I focus exclusively on criminal law. I live and breathe it. You can trust in my focus.
What To Do After an Arrest in Rogers
First, try to remain calm and follow any release conditions the court has set. If you received papers directing you to appear at the Benton County courthouse or another court, keep them in a safe place and note the date and time. Missing a court date can create new problems, so it is important to stay organized from the start.
You should avoid talking about the details of your case with anyone other than a lawyer. This includes friends, coworkers, and social media. Statements made in person, by text, or online can sometimes be used as evidence. It is usually better to let your defense attorney Rogers residents rely on handle communication with law enforcement and the prosecutor.
Helpful steps you can take right away include:
- Gather all paperwork, such as citations, bond conditions, and court notices
- Write down what you remember about the events leading up to the arrest
- Make a list of possible witnesses and their contact information
- Avoid discussing your case on social media or by text message
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer to review your situation
Once you call my office, I review your information, answer your questions, and explain what will likely happen at your first court appearance. From there, we work together to decide on the next steps that fit your goals and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Your Former Prosecutor Experience Help Me?
My time as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney helps me see your case from both sides. I understand how the State reviews evidence, files charges, and negotiates. I use that insight to look for weaknesses in the evidence and to develop strategies for talks with the prosecutor or for trial.
What Will Happen at My First Court Date?
Your first court date is often an arraignment or initial appearance. The judge typically explains the charge, addresses bond or release conditions, and sets future dates. I prepare you in advance, appear with you in court, and speak for you so you are not left to navigate the process alone.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire You?
I offer a free initial consultation so you can learn about your options before making decisions. If you choose to move forward, I provide clear information about fees and offer payment plans in many cases. My goal is to find an arrangement that fits your situation.
Will I Speak With You or Staff Only?
When you hire my firm, you work directly with me. My promise is simple. When you hire me, you get me. My office may assist with scheduling and documents, but I am the attorney who advises you, appears in court, and handles your defense.