Jason Kalafat, Esq.

Facing criminal charges in Washington, D.C. can be one of the most stressful and pivotal moments in a person's life. The stakes are incredibly high, and navigating the complex legal system requires not just knowledge, but also compassion, dedication, and a fierce commitment to justice. For residents of the District, finding a criminal defense attorney who embodies these qualities is paramount. This article introduces you to Jason Kalafat, Esq., a highly respected and experienced criminal defense lawyer in D.C., known for his unwavering commitment to his clients and his profound understanding of the legal system.

Jason Kalafat, Esq. is a dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney based in Washington, D.C. With over two decades of experience, he has established a reputation for providing strategic and vigorous defense to individuals facing a wide range of criminal charges in local, state, and federal courts. Mr. Kalafat is known for his deeply empathetic approach, combining extensive legal knowledge with a genuine concern for his clients' well-being.

His career began as a Deputy Public Defender in Maricopa County, Arizona, where he honed his litigation skills by handling hundreds of cases, with a particular focus on DUI, aggravated DUI, and gun and drug offenses. After gaining invaluable trial experience as a public defender, Mr. Kalafat broadened his practice to include state and federal cases, appellate, and post-conviction cases at a prestigious boutique criminal defense firm. He relocated to Washington, D.C., in 2008, where he served as a partner in two D.C. criminal defense law firms before establishing his solo practice in 2020. More recently, in 2025, Mr. Kalafat joined Scrofano Law PC as a Senior Trial Attorney, continuing his practice with like-minded advocates dedicated to relentless defense. His commitment to the principle of "innocent until proven guilty" is a cornerstone of his practice, and he consistently strives to improve the legal system's pursuit of justice. Clients and peers alike commend his forthrightness, honesty, and compassionate advocacy. He has been consistently selected as a Super Lawyer for multiple years, has an AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and a perfect 10.0 rating by AVVO, all testaments to his high ethical standards and professional excellence.

Jason Kalafat, Esq. practices at 600 F St NW Suite 300, Washington, DC 20004, USA. This address places his office in a highly central and easily accessible part of downtown Washington, D.C., within the city's prominent business and legal district, often referred to as Penn Quarter.

The location on F Street NW offers excellent accessibility for clients throughout the District of Columbia and the wider metropolitan area. It is exceptionally well-served by D.C.'s extensive public transportation network. The office is within very close walking distance of several major Metrorail stations, including Metro Center (serving the Red, Orange, Blue, and Silver lines) and Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter (serving the Green and Yellow lines). This provides seamless connectivity for individuals commuting from various neighborhoods in D.C., as well as from suburban Maryland and Virginia. Numerous Metrobus routes also operate in the immediate vicinity, offering additional options for transit. For clients who choose to drive, while street parking in downtown D.C. can be limited, there are several commercial parking garages available within a short walk of the office. Being situated in a modern suite on F Street NW provides a professional and welcoming environment. This central and well-connected location underscores Mr. Kalafat's commitment to providing convenient and efficient service to his clientele in the nation's capital.

• DUI / Impaired Driving Defense: Providing aggressive defense for individuals facing charges related to driving under the influence (DUI/DWI).

• Assault and Domestic Violence Defense: Representing clients accused of various forms of assault, including domestic violence charges.

• Drug Offenses: Defending individuals against charges related to drug possession, distribution, and manufacturing.

• Sex Offenses: Offering sensitive and strategic defense for those accused of sexual assault and other sex-related crimes.

• Theft Charges: Providing legal representation for various theft-related offenses, including shoplifting and grand larceny.

• Fraud Charges: Defending clients against allegations of fraud, including white-collar fraud and financial crimes.

• Weapons Charges: Handling cases involving illegal possession or use of firearms and other weapons.

• Federal Crimes: Representing clients facing criminal charges in federal courts in Washington D.C. and Maryland.

• Expungement and Record Sealing: Assisting eligible individuals in clearing or sealing their criminal records in Washington D.C., offering a "second chance."

• Appellate and Post-Conviction Cases: Representing clients in appeals and seeking post-conviction relief.

• Government Investigations: Guiding individuals through investigations initiated by various governmental agencies.

• Highly Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney: With over 20 years of experience, Jason Kalafat possesses extensive knowledge and practical skills in criminal law across local, state, and federal courts.

• Empathetic and Knowledgeable: Clients consistently praise him for being both empathetic and highly knowledgeable, a rare and valuable combination in legal representation.

• Dedicated to "Innocent Until Proven Guilty": He fervently believes in and upholds the fundamental principle of innocence until proven guilty, providing a vigorous defense.

• Strong Ethical Standards: Described as a "stickler for forthrightness and honesty," Mr. Kalafat maintains the highest ethical standards in his practice.

• Recognized by Peers and Clients: He holds an AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a perfect 10.0 AVVO rating, and has been consistently selected as a "Super Lawyer" (2019-2025), indicating top-tier recognition for his skills and dedication.

• Extensive Trial Experience: Having served as a Deputy Public Defender and trial counsel in numerous cases, he brings significant courtroom experience to every client's defense.

• Passion for Justice: Clients note his deep caring for their well-being and a passion to improve the legal system's pursuit of justice.

As a highly respected and experienced criminal defense attorney, Jason Kalafat, Esq. focuses on providing top-tier legal representation rather than conventional "promotions" or "special offers." His services are highly personalized and tailored to the unique and often critical needs of individuals facing criminal charges.

However, in line with common practices for criminal defense, Mr. Kalafat often provides a free initial consultation (sometimes up to 60 minutes, as per some public sources). This allows potential clients to discuss their case, understand the charges, explore possible defense strategies, and learn about the legal process without any upfront financial commitment. This free consultation is a significant benefit for individuals facing unexpected legal difficulties. During this consultation, fee structures will be clearly discussed, providing transparency and helping clients make informed decisions. Clients engaging Mr. Kalafat are investing in his proven expertise, compassionate advocacy, and relentless pursuit of justice, which is the ultimate value he offers.

For those in the District of Columbia seeking dedicated and experienced criminal defense counsel from Jason Kalafat, Esq., you can reach him using the following contact details:

• Address: 600 F St NW Suite 300, Washington, DC 20004, USA
• Phone: (202) 410-8061
• Mobile Phone: +1 202-410-8061

It is highly recommended to contact the office by phone as soon as possible if you are facing criminal charges or are under investigation. Scheduling an appointment will allow Mr. Kalafat to provide immediate attention to your urgent legal needs.

For individuals in the District of Columbia who find themselves accused of a crime or under investigation, Jason Kalafat, Esq., is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended legal resource. His office's prime location at 600 F St NW, in the heart of downtown D.C., ensures unparalleled accessibility via public transportation, making it convenient for local residents to reach him during what is often a profoundly stressful period.

What truly sets Jason Kalafat apart and makes him ideal for the D.C. community is his unwavering commitment to criminal defense, coupled with his empathetic and knowledgeable approach. As evidenced by numerous client testimonials, he not only possesses the legal acumen and extensive trial experience necessary to navigate complex criminal cases (from DUI and assault to federal crimes and sex offenses) but also genuinely cares about his clients' well-being and their belief in the justice system. His dedication to the "innocent until proven guilty" principle resonates deeply with individuals seeking a fair and just outcome.

Moreover, his ability to assist with crucial processes like expungement and record sealing offers D.C. residents a vital second chance, helping them move forward from past legal issues. By choosing Jason Kalafat, Esq., locals gain not just a highly skilled legal advocate, but a compassionate ally who will fight tirelessly for their rights and work to achieve the best possible resolution, ensuring they are not forgotten in the complexities of the legal process.