Wendy M. Lewis

Wendy M. Lewis is a veteran trial and appellate attorney with over three decades of experience in criminal defense and complex federal litigation. As co-founder of Nester Lewis PLLC, she brings a strong history of trial success, appellate advocacy, and leadership in Utah’s Federal Public Defender’s Office.

Ms. Lewis earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Utah College of Law in 1991, where she was a William H. Leary Scholar and editor of the Utah Law Review. Following graduation, she clerked for Judge Robert H. MacWilliams of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, developing her passion for criminal law through exposure to diverse federal cases.

In private practice, Ms. Lewis defended clients in both civil and criminal matters, including homicide, rape, and fraud, with several high-profile acquittals. She later clerked for U.S. District Judge Dale A. Kimball before serving as an Assistant Federal Public Defender for over two decades, where she built a reputation for securing favorable outcomes in serious and complex federal cases.

Ms. Lewis is a leading federal sex offense defense attorney and a dedicated advocate for young adult offenders. She frequently secures reduced or alternative sentences by presenting cutting-edge evidence on adolescent and young adult brain development. Her experience includes a pivotal role in the high-profile case United States v. Brian David Mitchell, and she has served on the Tribal Reentry Court, partnering directly with Native communities to support successful reentry after incarceration.

Over her 21-year tenure at the Federal Defender’s Office, Ms. Lewis served as a senior-level supervisor, overseeing hiring, case distribution, and diversity efforts. She is active in the Federal Bar Association, Utah Women Lawyers Association, and the Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Wendy M. Lewis is licensed in Utah state and federal courts and the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Her career reflects an unwavering dedication to justice, client advocacy, and systemic improvement, making her one of the region’s most trusted and accomplished defense attorneys.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Nester Lewis PLLC
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, Utah Women Lawyers Association
• Member, Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• Utah

Education

• University of Utah College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges