Josh D. Lee JD, MS, NREMT

Josh D. Lee represents the evolution of criminal defense advocacy—a fusion of legal expertise, scientific knowledge, and unwavering dedication to client success. As the founder of The Lee Firm, Josh has spent nearly two decades redefining what’s possible in DUI defense and criminal law throughout northeast Oklahoma.

Professional Recognition

Josh’s expertise extends far beyond northeast Oklahoma, earning recognition at the highest levels of legal and scientific communities:

Legal Awards:

• Martindale-Hubbell AV Rated Attorney – Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 (since 2013)
• Marion Opala First Amendment Award (2024) – Freedom of Information Oklahoma
• Fern Holland Courageous Lawyer Award (2018) – Oklahoma Bar Association
• President’s Award (2013 & 2018) – Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
• Named to Oklahoma Magazine’s “40 Under 40” Young Leaders (2018)
• Dean’s Award (2013) – National College for DUI Defense

Scientific Recognition:

• American Chemical Society Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation (2014)
• Co-Chair, Chemistry & the Law Division, American Chemical Society (2011-2024)
• President, DUI Defense Lawyers Association Justice Foundation (2014-2018)

Unique Scientific Expertise

Unlike traditional criminal defense attorneys, Josh brings advanced scientific training directly into the courtroom. As a Forensic Chromatography Instructor for the American Chemical Society and Axion Analytical Laboratories, he teaches other attorneys and scientists about the very testing methods used in DUI prosecutions.

This scientific background enables The Lee Firm to challenge forensic evidence at a level that other defense attorneys simply cannot match. Josh has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and presented at forensic science conferences across North America, establishing himself as a nationally recognized authority on DUI scientific evidence.

Precedent-Setting Legal Work

Landmark Cases:

• Ludlow v. DeLapp – Successfully pursued extraordinary writ in Oklahoma Supreme Court, leading to judicial reform
• Andrews v. State – Set Oklahoma precedent regarding paramedic blood draws
• Ward & Lee v. City of Claremore – Established precedent requiring release of police dash cam footage under Open Records Act

Government Transparency Leadership: As editor of FOIBible.com, Josh has created Oklahoma’s most comprehensive resource for Open Records Act enforcement, helping citizens and attorneys access government information. His work has forced multiple government entities to comply with transparency laws and resulted in over well over $100,000 in attorney fees awarded for successful open records litigation.

Teaching and Leadership

Josh’s expertise is sought by legal and scientific organizations nationwide:

Lectured For:

• American Chemical Society
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences
• Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
• DUI Defense Lawyers Association
• National College for DUI Defense
• And many others.

Published Author: Multiple contributions to “Understanding DUI Scientific Evidence” and peer-reviewed forensic science publications.

Community Service

Beyond his legal practice, Josh serves his community in multiple roles:

Public Safety Leadership:

• Volunteer Captain, Vinita Fire Department
• Director, Craig County Technical Rescue Task Force
• Fire and Technical Rescue Instructor, Oklahoma State University

Elected Leadership:

• Mayor of Vinita, Oklahoma

Professional Certifications:

• Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician
• Nationally Certified Firefighter I & II
• Federal Firearms License (Type 07 Manufacturer)

The Difference Scientific Training Makes

When prosecutors present “scientific” evidence against you, most attorneys can only rely on cross-examination techniques. Josh brings the ability to understand, analyze, and challenge that evidence at its scientific foundation. Whether it’s gas chromatography results, blood testing procedures, or field sobriety testing protocols, Josh’s advanced training enables challenges that other attorneys miss.

Philosophy

“Every criminal case deserves to be prepared as if it’s going to trial, because it might. The prosecution has unlimited resources and scientific laboratories at its disposal. The citizen accused deserves an advocate who can meet that challenge with greater expertise and superior dedication.”