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Recognized in the industry

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • American Bar Association
    American Bar Association
  • The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
    The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
  • Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Super Lawyers
    Super Lawyers

St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyers

Who Will You Bring to the Fight?

If you or someone you love is facing a criminal charge in Missouri, such as drug possession or sexual assault, trust our law firm to provide the experienced and passionate legal advocacy that you need. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys, Mark Hammer and Nicole Chiravollatti, are committed to protecting the rights of our clients.

Why trust our legal team?

  • More than 30 years of criminal law experience.
  • Former prosecutors who know how the "other side" operates.
  • Accessibility and availability – clients can always reach our attorneys.
  • Personalized, one-on-one attention.
  • Tough negotiators and proven trial lawyers.

Facing life-altering penalties, regardless of the specific charge involved, is an experience of tremendous turbulence and chaos. When your future is on the line, putting proven lawyers in your corner should be your number one priority. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our St. Louis criminal defense lawyers will fight for you.

Call (314) 334-3807 today to schedule a free initial consultation with our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys and learn how we can help you.

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Client
Testimonials

  • "I could not have imagined getting through this difficult and uncertain time without the help of the Hammer Law Firm."
    - E.M
  • "You don't know how much of a blessing you are to us"
    - C.G
  • "Mark and Nicole are the best law firm partners ever."
    - C.E
  • "Mark and Nicole are the best at getting to the truth of the matter and dedicated to your clients"
    - Vicki H.
  • "Mark Hammer is a decisive, direct, and conscientious attorney. I would definitely recommend him to others."
    - Anonymous
  • "Mark Hammer is a gentleman, exudes confidence and relieves stress with his truth"
    - Anonymous
Prepared for Trial, Prepared for Results

Choosing The
Right Lawyer

The Hammer Law Firm provides tough representation for people facing tough criminal charges. Our St. Louis law firm is committed to pursuing justice for each of our clients and doing whatever it takes to protect their future. View some of our helpful videos to learn more about our firm.

Why Trust Our St. Lous Criminal Defense LAw Firm?

  1. More than 30 years of criminal law experience.
  2. Former prosecutors who know how the
    "other side" operates.
  3. Accessibility and availability – clients can
    always reach our attorneys.
  4. Personalized, one-on-one attention.
  5. Tough negotiators and proven trial lawyers.
Get Immediate Help

Our attorneys are dedicated to working
directly with all our clients.

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Hammer Law Firm FAQ

  • What should I do after an arrest?

    Although we are fully aware that chaos, fear, and uncertainty loom heavy in the aftermath of an arrest, we encourage anyone who may be currently facing criminal allegations, as well as their families, to remain calm. While this is no easy feat, it can certainly be made easier by working with experienced, compassionate, and highly attentive St. Louis criminal defense attorneys who are prepared to immediately set you at ease by reviewing your case and determining the ways in which your charges can be fought. Aside from seeking proven legal representation, our firm recommends that you exercise your rights, specifically your right to remain silent. You do not have to speak with law enforcement officers and you are never required to answer questions without a lawyer present. Remaining silent can ensure that you do not say anything that can later be used to incriminate you. Additionally, collecting all relevant legal documentation, taking notes of important dates and deadlines, and securing information of any witnesses who may be of benefit to your future defense are wise decisions that can aid you, and your attorney, as your legal process progresses. This being said, consulting a knowledgeable and qualified lawyers should still be your first priority.

  • Is there any possibility that I won't have to go to jail?

    Yes, there is always the possibility that imprisonment can be avoided, especially when you work with proven attorneys. Regardless of the charges you face, and no matter how hopeless you may feel, there are numerous avenues of opportunity that can be pursued to have your charges dismissed, dropped, or reduced.

  • What are my options?

    Your available defense options will always depend on the unique circumstances involved in your case, particularly the following:

    • The nature and type of charge
    • Your prior criminal history
    • The arresting protocol of law enforcement officers

    By carefully listening to what you have to say and by meticulously reviewing all elements involved in your case, our legal team can assist you in determining all of your available options and defense strategies. While these options may vary from case to case, our attorneys have secured numerous favorable resolutions for our clients by way of dismissals, plea bargains that reduce charges and sentences, and alternative sentencing or diversion options. Again, we want to reiterate that these are simply general options and that the specific facts inherent to your case will provide a more precise set of options and plans.

  • What are alternative options?

    When it comes to the criminal justice system, our society has shown that it focuses more on rehabilitation than unfair punishment alone. This trend means that, for certain individuals - in particular first-time offenders and those accused of certain types of crimes - alternative sentencing or diversion options can be pursued. These options provide ways of avoiding harsh penalties, including terms of imprisonment. In drug crime cases, for example, some defendants may be eligible for drug court, which will allow them to obtain substance abuse treatment in lieu of incarceration. When applicable, our lawyers help you determine if these alternative options apply to your case and whether they can be pursued.

  • Will my case go to trial?

    Whether or not your case will extend into the trial phase will concern the particular circumstances involved, the reasons for pursuing a trial, and the viability of your defense. The trajectory and resolution of a case will always be unique. While some people's best options rest on the fate of a trial, others may find plea bargains and compromises that reduce charges or penalties to be more appealing. It is true, however, that your right to a trial can be a powerful tool in the hands of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer. Should you choose to work with our firm, you can be sure that our attorneys will heavily weigh your options and guide you toward the best choice. As we have a solid reputation for our grit and integrity throughout the local and state court systems, we find that we have ample leverage we can exercise during negotiations. Additionally, our legal team has handled hundreds of criminal trials and has no aversion to fighting aggressively on your behalf, should that be your most favorable option.

  • Can a lawyer really make a difference?

    The simple answer? Most definitely. Having an experienced lawyer who focuses on criminal defense by your side can ensure that you do not commit any errors or mistakes that can compromise your case and that you are guided safely through your legal process. Our attorneys focus intently on making your legal experience one not marked by fear or uncertainty, but rather by hope, confidence, and the reassurance that comes with knowing precisely what is going on at every step. Beyond helping you navigate your legal journey, a lawyer can fight for the best resolution possible in your case. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we draw from decades of criminal law experience and careers as former prosecutors to provide our clients with effective defense strategies. In every case, our goals revolve around protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. As we have the skills to do so, and the record of success to prove that we have done so in the past, you can be confident that our St. Louis criminal defense lawyer can certainly make a difference in your case.

Premeditated is a podcast production of the Hammer Law Firm. Each week we provide listeners with insights into the inner workings of the criminal justice system. Each easily digestible episode takes on a specific issue to give listeners a greater understanding about how the criminal justice system actually operates. Every topic we tackle is based off of questions we get from our clients all the time. Premeditated truly is a one stop shop for giving listeners the tools they need to more effectively navigate the criminal justice system in Missouri and Illinois.

Listen Here

Making the Difference in Your Missouri Criminal Case

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our Missouri criminal defense lawyers know that the personal support and experienced representation we provide can make profound differences in the lives of our clients. At our firm, we strive to ensure that you will always have attentive advocates guiding you through your legal journey. We are here to help you.

Our Commitment

Attorneys Mark Hammer and Nicole Chiravollatti are committed to providing the best legal representation that they can offer. Additionally, our team is dedicated to bettering the local legal community and continually improving our legal practice. Some of our contributions include:

  • Attorneys Hammer and Chiravollatti are adjunct professors at Saint Louis University School of Law, where they teach Criminal Trial Advocacy II to third-year law students.
  • Mark was recently named a "Master" with the local American Inns of Court. This is the highest level of membership in the organization.
  • Attorney Hammer is "Lead Panel Attorney" for the Eastern District of Missouri's Criminal Justice Act Program. Mark has retained this distinction for the past three years.
  • Attorneys Hammer and Chiravollatti are actively involved as volunteers in the ALS Association's fight against ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)

Schedule a Free Consultation

Regardless of the charges you face, and no matter the nature of your case, you need to speak with someone who has the experience, passion, and determination to guide you through these troubling experiences. As time is such a crucial matter in strengthening your defense, we encourage you to schedule a free evaluation as soon as possible. Allow our attorneys to explain the charges you face and what we can do to help.

Contact the Hammer Law Firm, LLC Today