Tani Jaye Ellen, Criminal Defense Attorney in Fairfax, Virginia

Tani concentrates on criminal defense, education, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Tani handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• Education

  View other Education attorneys

• Family Law

  View other Family Law attorneys

Tani's primary office is at 4020 University Drive, Suite 222, Fairfax, VA, 22030. 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 Tani usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Tani 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 Tani for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Tani offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do criminal defense cases in Virginia 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. Tani gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Tani take my case if I'm outside Fairfax?

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

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

• Is Tani accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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