Partner
- Arizona, 1997
- 8th Circuit, 2015
- 9th Circuit, 2015
- United States District Court For the District of North Dakota, 2015
Born and raised in Wyoming, Arizona Criminal Attorney Dwane Cates has the heart and soul of a cowboy, embodying all of the independence and bold fearlessness that implies. While the world sees him today as one of the most celebrated and respected Criminal Defense Attorneys in the country, Dwane is still a flesh and blood man who understands that life is complicated and unexpected events can tear our world apart.
Even his own personal battle with alcoholism and subsequent sustained recovery not only augment his already vast vault of experience but his natural compassion and empathy for others who face life’s challenges. It’s this same ability to relate to others that help draw him to criminal defense.
A man who still subscribes to the philosophy that “a man’s word is his bond,” Dwane Cates is the very embodiment of integrity and professionalism. If Dwane accepts your case that’s exactly what you can depend on. This Board Certified, award-winning Arizona Criminal Attorney works with you personally and directly. You’ll have direct contact with his personal cell number. Committed to providing superb, tireless, and dedicated representation, Dwane will be at your side every step of the way.
Dedicated to preserving your rights, Dwane faces each situation armed with his own unique arsenal of tools garnered and sharpened with decades of experience and augmented by a track record of outstanding success.
Meeting Dwane the first thing that becomes readily apparent is that here is a man who does things differently, even unexpectedly. He has always believed that if you do things like everyone else, it makes you average. His singular way of looking at life and every aspect of it is evidenced in his approach to every case. Regardless of how many clients he has represented over the years, Dwane views each client and case as unique focusing on everything about that person and the situation that will lead to a positive outcome.
While there’s no disputing his virtually unrivaled trial skills, Dwane is quick to draw upon the expertise of specialists whenever the situation calls for it. His long-standing associations with experts in various specialties such as forensic psychologists, investigators, and mitigation specialists ensure that his clients will always benefit from the best of the best in preparation for trial.
It takes hard work and dedication to become the most successful and highly respected Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney and it’s something that Dwane takes seriously. His non-stop approach to life and especially his profession, continue to make him one of the country’s most highly sought-after attorneys.
It’s your life, your family, and even your freedom. Don’t settle for second best. Choose an Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney to lead you through the labyrinth of our legal system.
Arizona State University – J.D. – 1996
- Trial Advocacy Team and Oral Argument Competitions
Arizona State University – B.A. – 1993
- Communication, Persuasion Honors: Suma Cum Laude
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member Since: 2006
American Bar Association
Member Since: 2000
- Criminal Law Section
Arizona State Bar
Member Since: 1997
State Bar of Arizona
Member Since: 2017 – 2020
- Executive Committee of the Criminal Law Section
American Association for Justice, Criminal Law Section
Member Since: 2000 – 2014