Born and raised in Wyoming, Arizona criminal defense attorney Dwane Cates brings a cowboy’s independence, grit, and fearlessness to every case he accepts. Widely recognized as one of the country’s most respected defense lawyers, he remains grounded in the reality that life is complicated and a single unexpected event can change everything. Dwane’s personal journey through alcoholism and long-term recovery has deepened his compassion and strengthened his ability to understand clients facing high-stakes problems, which is one reason he is so drawn to criminal defense. A Board Certified, award-winning attorney, he is known for integrity and a direct, hands-on approach—working personally with clients and making himself accessible throughout the process. Dedicated to protecting constitutional rights, Dwane relies on decades of experience and a proven record of success, tailoring strategy to the person and the facts rather than using a one-size-fits-all playbook. When a case demands additional firepower, he leverages trusted relationships with top specialists, including forensic psychologists, investigators, and mitigation professionals, to prepare thoroughly for trial and pursue the best possible outcome.
About Mr. Dwane Cates
Awards
Reviews for Dwane
Have you consulted or hired this lawyer?
Leave a review about your experience with this lawyer.Attorney Dwane Cates and his staff have left a life-long great impression on me for the constant level of professionalism they exuberated during the entire time of my life-changing ordeal and for the great outcome of my case that came about because of the dedicated, hard work Attorney Cates put in. I had an aggravated assault case, and hired Attorney Cates.
Dwane Cates represented me in a rather complicated & difficult violation. The conseqences ranged from mildly inconenient to life changing. He had a thorough understanding of the law but more importantly, he has developed over years of good practice, a solid working relationship with the District Attorneys. He gave me good solid advice, which I followed to the letter and the DA gave his arguments a sincere consideration. The end result was I paid a price for my mistakes, but not life changing
he assigned a brand new attorney to represent me at my final hearing - the new attorney's voice shook as he stood before and addressed the judge. Cates was not available for phone consultation during the final phase of my case.
Experience
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Bar Admission & MembershipsAdmissions1997, Arizona
2015, 8th Circuit
2015, 9th Circuit
2015, United States District Court For the District of North Dakota
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Education & CertificationsLaw SchoolArizona State University
Class of 1996
J.D.
Other EducationArizona State University
Class of 1993
B.A.
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Personal Details & HistoryAgeBorn in 1975
January 1, 1975
Contact Mr. Dwane Cates
7310 North 16th Street, Suite 330 APhoenix, AZ 85020U.S.A.
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Attorneys FAQs
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What year was this attorney first admitted to the bar?Mr. Dwane Cates was admitted in 1997 to the State of Arizona.
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Does this attorney speak any other languages?Mr. Dwane Cates speaks Polish.
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Is this attorney Martindale-Hubbell Client Review rated?Yes, Mr. Dwane Cates has a 4.1 Client Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
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What law school did this attorney attend?Mr. Dwane Cates attended Arizona State University.