Petersen Criminal Defense Law
Defending Criminal Cases From Misdemeanors to Serious Felonies in Nebraska.
About Petersen Criminal Defense Law
CriminalDefenseNE Review – Nebraska Criminal Defense, DUI Defense, Drug Crime Representation & Federal Criminal Law Services Explained
Introduction
CriminalDefenseNE.com is the website of Petersen Criminal Defense Law, a Nebraska-based law firm dedicated exclusively to criminal defense representation. Unlike general practice firms that divide their attention among family law, personal injury, estate planning, and business disputes, Petersen Criminal Defense Law focuses solely on defending individuals accused of crimes. This specialization allows the firm to concentrate its resources, experience, and legal strategies on one area of law: protecting the rights and freedoms of people facing criminal charges.
The firm is led by attorney Thomas M. Petersen, who has been practicing criminal defense law since 1995 and has handled thousands of criminal cases throughout Nebraska. According to the firm's website, Petersen Criminal Defense Law has represented clients in more than 8,000 criminal cases and limits its practice exclusively to criminal defense matters.
For individuals facing criminal accusations, the consequences can be severe. A criminal conviction can affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, educational prospects, housing applications, immigration status, and personal freedom. Petersen Criminal Defense Law positions itself as a dedicated advocate for people whose futures are at risk because of criminal charges.
What Is CriminalDefenseNE?
CriminalDefenseNE.com serves as the online platform for Petersen Criminal Defense Law, a criminal defense firm headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. The firm's guiding philosophy is reflected in a statement prominently featured throughout the website:
"I don't judge you, I don't lecture you, I defend you."
The firm's mission can be summarized as:
Providing aggressive and strategic criminal defense representation to individuals facing misdemeanor, felony, state, and federal criminal charges throughout Nebraska.
The website highlights services involving:
- Criminal defense
- DUI defense
- Drug crime defense
- Federal criminal defense
- Domestic violence defense
- Theft crime defense
- White collar crime defense
- Sex crime defense
- Internet crime defense
- Felony representation
- Misdemeanor representation
Unlike firms that occasionally handle criminal matters, Petersen Criminal Defense Law has intentionally narrowed its focus to criminal law. According to the website, this specialization allows the firm to stay current on evolving criminal statutes, constitutional issues, procedural rules, and defense strategies.
Criminal Defense as the Firm's Primary Focus
The firm's entire practice centers on criminal defense.
Criminal defense law involves representing individuals accused of violating state or federal criminal statutes. Criminal accusations can arise from:
- Police investigations
- Traffic stops
- Search warrants
- Drug investigations
- Domestic disputes
- Financial investigations
- Federal law enforcement operations
Petersen Criminal Defense Law represents clients throughout every stage of the criminal process, including:
- Investigation
- Arrest
- Bond hearings
- Pretrial proceedings
- Plea negotiations
- Jury trials
- Sentencing hearings
- Appeals when appropriate
The firm's objective is to protect constitutional rights while pursuing the best possible outcome in every case.
DUI Defense Services
One of the firm's most significant practice areas is DUI defense.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges are among the most common criminal offenses in Nebraska. However, the consequences can be substantial.
Potential penalties may include:
- Driver's license suspension
- Fines
- Jail sentences
- Probation
- Ignition interlock requirements
- Permanent criminal records
Petersen Criminal Defense Law handles cases involving:
- First-offense DUI
- Repeat DUI charges
- Aggravated DUI
- Non-aggravated DUI
- Alcohol-related driving offenses
Attorney Petersen has earned recognition for DUI defense work and has been invited into the National Advocacy for DUI Defense organization, which evaluates lawyers based on their experience and results in DUI cases.
The firm carefully evaluates:
- Traffic stop legality
- Breath test procedures
- Blood test evidence
- Officer conduct
- Constitutional issues
The goal is to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case while protecting clients from unnecessary penalties.
Drug Crime Defense
Drug crime defense represents another major component of the firm's practice.
Drug-related charges can range from simple possession offenses to serious trafficking allegations carrying lengthy prison sentences.
The firm handles cases involving:
- Drug possession
- Drug delivery
- Drug distribution
- Cocaine offenses
- Interstate drug transportation
- Controlled substance crimes
Drug cases often involve constitutional issues concerning:
- Vehicle searches
- Traffic stops
- Search warrants
- Probable cause
- Illegal searches and seizures
One case highlighted on the firm's website involved a successful motion to suppress evidence after the defense argued that a stop and search were unlawful. The result was dismissal of the drug charge.
This illustrates the firm's emphasis on challenging procedural and constitutional violations.
Interstate 80 Drug Cases
A unique focus area mentioned on the firm's website involves drug arrests occurring along Interstate 80.
According to the firm's materials, law enforcement agencies frequently conduct drug interdiction efforts along this major transportation corridor. These cases often involve:
- Traffic stops
- Vehicle searches
- Drug transportation allegations
- Out-of-state defendants
The firm assists clients facing charges arising from highway interdiction investigations and works to challenge unlawful searches whenever appropriate.
Federal Criminal Defense
Federal criminal defense is one of the firm's most advanced practice areas.
Federal prosecutions differ significantly from state criminal cases.
Federal investigations may involve agencies such as:
- FBI
- DEA
- ATF
- Homeland Security
- IRS Criminal Investigation
Federal cases often carry severe penalties and complex procedural rules.
Petersen Criminal Defense Law represents individuals charged with:
- Federal drug crimes
- White collar crimes
- Internet crimes
- Federal conspiracy allegations
- Other federal offenses
Federal defense requires extensive knowledge of federal sentencing guidelines, federal court procedures, and constitutional law.
White Collar Crime Representation
The firm also handles white collar criminal defense.
White collar crimes generally involve allegations of financial misconduct.
These cases may include:
- Fraud allegations
- Financial crimes
- Business-related offenses
- Federal investigations
White collar cases often require detailed analysis of financial records, communications, and transaction histories.
The firm works to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's theory while protecting clients' professional reputations and careers.
Domestic Violence Defense
Domestic violence allegations can create immediate legal and personal consequences.
Individuals accused of domestic violence may face:
- Protective orders
- Criminal charges
- Housing issues
- Employment consequences
- Child custody complications
Petersen Criminal Defense Law represents clients accused of domestic violence offenses and works to ensure their rights are protected throughout the legal process.
The firm examines witness statements, police reports, physical evidence, and procedural issues when building defense strategies.
Theft Crime Defense
Theft offenses remain among the most frequently prosecuted criminal charges.
The firm represents clients accused of:
- Theft
- Property crimes
- Related criminal offenses
The consequences of theft convictions often extend beyond criminal penalties and may affect employment and educational opportunities.
The firm's defense strategies focus on protecting clients from unnecessary convictions and minimizing long-term consequences whenever possible.
Sex Crime Defense
One of the most serious practice areas listed on the website is sex crime defense.
These cases may involve allegations such as:
- Sexual assault
- Rape
- Child pornography offenses
- Related sex crime allegations
Sex crime accusations often carry severe social stigma in addition to criminal penalties.
The firm emphasizes careful case analysis, constitutional protections, and aggressive defense representation in these high-stakes matters.
Internet Crime Defense
As technology continues to evolve, criminal investigations increasingly involve digital evidence.
Petersen Criminal Defense Law also handles internet-related criminal cases.
These matters may involve:
- Online investigations
- Computer-related offenses
- Federal internet crime allegations
Digital evidence frequently raises unique constitutional and technical issues that require specialized legal analysis.
Misdemeanor Defense
Not all criminal charges are felonies.
The firm represents individuals accused of misdemeanors, which may still carry significant consequences.
Misdemeanor convictions can affect:
- Employment opportunities
- Professional licensing
- Educational prospects
- Housing applications
The firm's website emphasizes that no criminal case should be considered insignificant because even minor convictions can create lasting consequences.
Felony Defense Representation
Felony charges represent the most serious category of criminal offenses.
Felony convictions may result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences
- Significant fines
- Permanent criminal records
- Loss of civil rights
The firm provides representation for individuals facing serious felony allegations and develops comprehensive defense strategies tailored to each case.
Trial Experience
A major strength of Petersen Criminal Defense Law is its trial experience.
According to public profiles and firm materials:
- Thomas Petersen has practiced criminal defense since 1995.
- He has handled thousands of criminal cases.
- A substantial portion of his practice involves courtroom advocacy and trial work.
The website repeatedly emphasizes strategic preparation and determination when taking cases to court.
Client Experience & Firm Philosophy
One recurring theme throughout the website is the presumption of innocence.
The firm repeatedly states that clients deserve:
- Respect
- Confidentiality
- Fair treatment
- Strong legal advocacy
The website emphasizes:
- Free consultations
- Direct attorney involvement
- Strategic planning
- Personalized representation
A particularly notable statement from the firm is:
"We do not scold, do not judge, we just defend."
This reflects the firm's focus on providing support during what is often one of the most stressful periods in a client's life.
Strengths of CriminalDefenseNE
✔ Exclusive focus on criminal defense
✔ Extensive DUI defense experience
✔ Federal criminal defense capabilities
✔ Drug crime defense specialization
✔ Domestic violence representation
✔ Sex crime defense experience
✔ White collar crime defense
✔ More than 8,000 criminal cases handled
✔ Trial-focused representation
✔ Free consultations available
Potential Limitations
From a review perspective:
- The firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense rather than broader legal services.
- Individuals seeking personal injury, family law, estate planning, or business law assistance would need separate counsel.
- The practice is concentrated on Nebraska criminal matters.
These limitations are intentional and reflect the firm's criminal defense specialization.
Final Verdict
CriminalDefenseNE.com, through Petersen Criminal Defense Law, stands out as a highly focused Nebraska criminal defense firm dedicated exclusively to defending individuals accused of crimes. Its strongest advantages include extensive criminal defense experience, DUI defense expertise, federal criminal defense capabilities, drug crime representation, and a philosophy centered on protecting constitutional rights. For individuals facing misdemeanor charges, felony allegations, DUI accusations, federal investigations, or other criminal matters in Nebraska, Petersen Criminal Defense Law offers specialized representation backed by decades of criminal defense experience and thousands of completed cases.
Practice Areas
Key Attorneys & Partners
Thomas M. Petersen
Founder & Criminal Defense Attorney
Awards & Recognition
General Member
Licensed Attorney & Professional Membership
Client Reviews
8 reviews"Tom Petersen and his staff is hands down the best in Omaha. I cant say enough good things. He is extremely knowledgeable. A great guy who really cares and always goes above and beyond. Great communication. He truly cares. And is always prepared. He knows everyone and everyone respects him and likes him. He is a straight shooter and always delivers. I have had to use him multiple times unfortunately. And he has pulled off the unthinkable everytime. He is reasonably priced. Especially what you get for your money. If you dont want to pay for a great lawyer dont get in trouble. If your freedom matters to you then that is priceless and I would recommend going with the best. Thanks Tom you are honestly a great guy and lawyer."
"A True Lifesaver I cannot recommend Mr. Gage Cobb enough. When I was facing a criminal case in Omaha, Nebraska, related to a heartbreaking and minor incident involving my son, I felt completely overwhelmed and terrified. Mr. Cobb immediately put my mind at ease with his professionalism, compassion, and strategic legal knowledge. He handled the sensitive nature of the child abuse charge with incredible care, and he understood how to work through this all to get it done with very good negotiation. We don't need bulldogs lawyers, we don't need just fighters, lawyers like Mr. Cobb are a true treasure because he knows to negotiate, speak and hear. Thanks to Mr. Cobb’s brilliant work and expertise, the case was ultimately dismissed! This outcome is truly life-changing, and I am profoundly grateful that he fought so hard to protect my family's future and stability. If you are looking for a dedicated and effective lawyer who genuinely cares, Mr. Gage Cobb is the one to choose. Thank you, thank you, thank you. This Thanksgiving, I'm so greatful to you!"
"I’m extremely grateful for the work my lawyer did on my case. When I first called, Josie was helpful and reassuring. I appreciate all of her words and genuine concern for me. From the beginning, they were honest, knowledgeable, and kept me informed every step of the way. They fought for me and helped achieve a great outcome that I didn’t think was possible. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a lawyer who truly cares and knows what they’re doing."
"I would highly highly recommend Peterson law. They are highly reputable firm. I was unsure but they ensured I was handled correctly and pretty much held my hand through the process. Keeping me updated being respectful and responding in a timely manner. I never had to step foot in court. Super knowledgeable. I worked more with Josie Rivera and can’t express enough how great she was. Handled everything for me told me exactly wheat I needed to do every step of the way. Was able to do diversion for my situation . But she made sure to take stress off my plate by answering all my questions and getting me past the finish line. 100 percent would recommend them. Josie again thank you, and thank you Peterson law."
"I cannot thank the staff and Mr Peterson enough for all the hard work they put in. From the first phone call they have communicated every step of the way. Mr Peterson and his staff are all extremely knowledgeable. Hiring them for our case was a no brainer. The outcome was better than we could ever have expected and it’s all because of the knowledge and hard work Mr Peterson put in. Thank you so much!"
"Petersen Law was exceptional and always available for consultation. The staff, especially Josie, treated me with respect and concern with every interaction . I highly recommend this law firm for your legal needs."
"Mr Gage Cobb is an excellent attorney and I am very thankful I found him. Read through all of the other reviews and you will find more of what I am about to add. In my initial contact with a few attorneys, Mr Gage Cobb was the only person that would hear me out, let alone think we had a chance of a lessening charges. Fast forward a few months and we walked out of the courtroom a great success! If you want some one in your corner and advocates for YOUR defense, Mr Gage Cobb is the call to make. You can quickly tell right away his vigor for this job isn't just another case, its to get the best result possible for YOU. Thank you so much for your help on my case."
"Mr. Peterson was very persistent in getting the best outcome for my case. He did an excellent job in keeping me updated and informing me on how my case was going through the process. Highly recommended!"
Have experience with this firm?
Write a ReviewFrequently Asked Questions
I handle a variety of criminal cases, including misdemeanors, felonies, and juvenile offenses.
I will carefully assess the evidence against you and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case to determine the best defense strategy for you.
The costs associated with a criminal defense attorney vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and the jurisdiction in which the case is being heard.
Every person has the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a fair trial.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, the potential outcomes may vary. However, in some cases, it may be possible to have the charges dismissed, have the charges reduced, or have the case go to trial.
The length of the process will depend on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule.
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