About
Mitchell M. Wells is a Virginia criminal defense lawyer at Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law, who represents clients in criminal law, traffic law, DUI/DWI, reckless driving, firearms matters, and record relief cases. He has defended thousands of people in courts across Virginia, helping clients face charges that may affect their license, record, job, and freedom. His work focuses on clear advice, careful preparation, and strong courtroom advocacy. He is admitted in Virginia and in federal courts, including the Fourth Circuit and both Virginia federal districts.
Mr. Wells earned his J.D. from William and Mary School of Law and his M.P.A. from Virginia Commonwealth University. He completed his B.A. from Virginia Military Institute. This education supports his legal writing, public service knowledge, and disciplined case preparation. His academic background also helps him review evidence, explain legal issues in simple terms, and build defense strategies that fit each client’s situation. He brings that training to misdemeanor, felony, traffic, DWI, firearms, and post-conviction record matters across courts statewide.
Mr. Wells has built a legal career centered on defense work in Virginia courts. He has handled cases involving speeding, reckless driving, driving while intoxicated, traffic violations, firearms rights, criminal allegations, and record relief. His experience includes appellate work, including a published Virginia Court of Appeals decision that reversed a felony hit-and-run conviction. He has also written and co-authored legal materials on Virginia gun law and DUI defense, showing his active role in educating both clients and the legal community.
Mitchell M. Wells has helped people by guiding them through stressful legal problems with practical counsel and steady representation. Clients have relied on him when facing possible jail time, criminal penalties, license problems, and long-term record concerns. His recognitions include Virginia Super Lawyers, Richmond Magazine honors, an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and a Superb rating from Avvo. These distinctions reflect professional skill, ethics, and client service. Mr. Wells continues to focus on protecting rights in criminal and traffic defense cases daily.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney, Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law
- Member, Virginia State Bar
- Member, Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
- Member, Richmond Criminal Bar Association
- Member, Virginia Citizens Defense League
- Member, VA Defenses
Licensed State
- Virginia
Education
- William and Mary School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Public Administration (MPA) - Virginia Military Institute
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges



- Drug Crime
- DUI & DWI
- Expungement
- Sex Crimes
- Speeding & Traffic Tickets
- Violent Crime




