Creston Phillip Smith, Appellate Attorney in Baltimore, Maryland

Creston concentrates on appellate, criminal defense, dui/dwi, litigation, and white collar. Each area below outlines the kind of case Creston handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

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• Criminal Defense

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• DUI/DWI

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• Litigation

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• White Collar

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Creston's primary office is at 400 East Pratt Street, Suite 900, Baltimore, MD, 21202. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new appellate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Creston usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Creston discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in appellate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Creston for a appellate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Creston walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Creston offer a free consultation?

  Creston charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Creston's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Creston's current terms during booking.

• How long do appellate cases in Maryland typically take?

  Simple appellate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Creston gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Creston take my case if I'm outside Baltimore?

  Creston is licensed in Maryland. Matters governed by Maryland law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Creston will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Creston?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Creston will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Creston accepting new appellate clients right now?

  Creston's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.