Souder Forest Tate, Criminal Defense Attorney in Springfield, Missouri

Souder concentrates on criminal defense, drug crimes, dui/dwi, general, and probation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Souder handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Drug Crimes

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• DUI/DWI

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• General

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• Probation

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• Traffic

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Souder's primary office is at 2814 E. Sunshine Street, Suite A, Springfield, MO, 65804. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Souder for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Souder offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do criminal defense cases in Missouri typically take?

  Simple criminal defense 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. Souder gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Souder take my case if I'm outside Springfield?

  Souder is licensed in Missouri. Matters governed by Missouri law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Souder 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 Souder?

  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. Souder will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Souder accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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