team-member

Lauren Milks

West Chester, PA

Licensed for 14 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Criminal Defense

Language

English

About

Lauren Dentone is a partner at Gawthrop Greenwood who focuses her practice on criminal defense, family law and litigation matters. It’s a much-valued skill set Lauren developed through more than ten years of trial experience both prosecuting and defending criminal cases that became increasingly family related. It was in the course of that representation that Lauren began to see the nexus between criminal law cases and that of family law.  After her work as Solicitor for Chester County Department of Children Youth & Family, Lauren realized it was of great benefit to her clients to embark on the practice of family law. Lauren began her career as a prosecutor for the Chester County District Attorney's Office, where she acquired her focused approach to case management and trial strategy. She went on to serve as private counsel at a large Chester County law firm where she successfully practiced criminal defense, employment law, civil litigation and civil rights defense.  Lauren was then asked to serve as an adjunct professor in criminology and prison practices at Rosemont College. She instructed undergraduate and graduate students on the sociological theories and perspectives of why individuals commit crimes, the criminal process in Pennsylvania, sentencing schematics, trial strategy and rehabilitative measures. ​​​​As a former Assistant District Attorney, Lauren has prosecuted hundreds of criminal cases including Domestic Violence, Protection from Abuse Orders, Indirect Criminal Contempt, Driving Under the Influence, drug possession, violent weapon offenses, assaults, property crimes, and homicide offenses. In the course of prosecution, she participated in evidence collection and analysis as well as witness and suspect interviews. In addition, Lauren has gleaned invaluable information regarding the inner-workings of the law enforcement community through her work as defense counsel to police departments, police officers, and prisons and corrections officers across Pennsylvania.  Lauren is also well versed in employment matters and assists clients with any potential implications to current or future employment due to a criminal charge. Similarly, Lauren consults with businesses regarding employees who have been charged or convicted of crimes in Pennsylvania. Most recently the founder of her own private practice, Milks Law, LLC, Lauren is a member of the Chester County Bar Association, Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry. She volunteers her time at the Committee for March of Dimes Chester County Salute to Women of Achievement. Lauren is also the a Hamilton Alumni Review Team member who interviews prospective Hamilton College Students living in South Eastern, Pennsylvania.  She is also Chair for the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry Foundation – Spring Gala. Lauren has also served as solicitor for the Chester County Department of Children Youth and Family and Chester County Clerk of Courts.  

Practices Areas

Criminal Defense

Family

Language

English

Contact

Gawthrop Greenwood PC17 East Gay StreetSuite 100West Chester, PA, 1938117 East Gay StreetSuite 100Suite 100West Chester, PA, 19381

Office: N/A

Website: N/A

Reviews

anonymous
November 25, 2019

After getting my underage I was incredibly stressed and worried about the implications it could have on my future. As I consulted with many lawyer, ultimately Lauren seemed like the best fit to represent me. Through out the process Lauren new exactly what needed to be done in order to put me in the best position possible when court arrived. She was always timely with her response and took everything incredibly serious. Because of how well she prepared me for court with all the necessary steps I needed to take, I had the best possible outcome for my situation thanks to Lauren. I would 100% recommend Lauren to anyone who needs legal advice or help.

Feisal
March 29, 2019

Lauren Dentone is an excellent attorney should anyone need a special and right kind of lawyer for anyone who would be looking for one! Lauren is a professional and great at what she knows and does. She helped me with my non-violent DUI case at the most difficult time of my life that potential could have led to jail time. Yet she was able to help me with the case and resulted to no jail time. I paid that is reasonably priced. She is very organized and on the task like clock work! She also has excellent communication and well articulated! If anyone needs an effective attorney and presents results call Lauren Dentone! Worth every penny!

Colleen
February 13, 2019

Lauren is steps above what you'd expect from an attorney. She is articulate, empathetic and consistent in her legal representation. I came to her with a mess of custody information and she took the time to efficiently review everything. I was really lost with all the legalities presented to me and she was beyond wonderful in her explaining everything with such clarity. She encouraged and lifted me up but also kept me level headed in her guidance. Recognizing that I was trying to do the right thing (with such a small amount of time), she made the absolute best of our time. She was not only thorough with preparing me and my arguments, but her confidence in me was amplified through each step. She took the time to get to know me, without being too personal or taking time away from the custody case. Evaluating the entire picture, studying and analyzing from all sides, Lauren got the absolute best result I could have asked for. I could not be more thankful in her representation of myself and my daughter. Her experience in her field is recognized in her ability to stand above the rest in a court room. While my family and I felt nervous about our case, we had no questions about our representation as Lauren holds herself and her clients to a high standard. Lauren truly formed a powerful and focused team with my family. With all of our evidence, perseverance and drive we accomplished more than I ever expected. She truly has the ability to effectively execute a plan without a single hiccup. Lauren was (is) my light during some of the most trying times. I am forever grateful for her consistency and care. She is absolutely a top notch lawyer whom I will recommend time and time again. Thank you for everything you've done for us, Lauren. We are so grateful for you!!

anonymous
May 23, 2018

My Mother hired and worked with Lauren while I sat in jail waiting on my court date. She kept my family calm and stayed in close contact with my mother. Routinely texting/calling to check in and provide updates well outside of business hours. Lauren met with me personally before court court on the morning of. She asked me to relay the details in my own words. And then she listened... She actually listened until I was finished. She was straight with me, and said she'd be asking the court for a lot that day. Some minutes later she returned and with the slightest of smiles said .... she'd earned her keep. She'd not only got agreement from all sides on the 7-8 things requested, but, I was immediately released from the courtroom and allowed to return home to my family. I'll complete a couple personal housekeeping items on my own and return to court in 60 days to have the charges dropped. If you need help in West Chester or Chester County or anywhere where else for that matter, make sure you call Lauren. She's as good as they get and I'm extremely grateful she took my case.

anonymous
May 22, 2018

A recommendation that I am so glad I called. Lauren was able to calm me down regarding my son's case during his prison time. A drug & alcohol screening and a continuance in front of the judge was handled with her utmost confidence and experience. Follow up support contact reassured me I had chosen a terrific lawyer.

anonymous
May 10, 2018

Lauren did an excellent job expunging several charges from my record. She thinks analytically and has a keen understanding of the Pennsylvania judicial system. I had a very positive experience and am happy I choose to hire her. Unlike some larger law firms, Lauren promptly responded to all of my concerns and kept me up to date on the progression of my case. I highly recommend her.

Ann
February 1, 2018

We hired Lauren Milks to represent our college age son on a misdemeanor charge. Lauren was very responsive and professional throughout the process. In the world of law it was probably a small case for an attorney as experienced as Lauren. But she took the time to review the facts, meet with our son, and kept us appraised of her strategy. She was efficient and no nonsense and yet she was caring and empathetic. She advised us of all our options and possible outcomes giving us hope, but keeping our expectations realistic. She successfully got the misdemeanor charge reduced to a much lower offense. This outcome exceeded our expectations. I hope to never have to legal counsel again, but if we do need legal support I would hire her. I highly recommend her.

Daniel
January 10, 2018

My nightmare began when I received a letter on the mail by the court... I was being accused of driving under a suspend license, I was in shock, I didn't understand what was going on, specially since I was not driving anywhere because of my suspended license! I tried to reach up to the officer that was accusing me and even left a voicemail, I never got a call back or any response... I tried to apply for a public defender since at the time of the accusation I was just starting a new job since I lost the 2 jobs I had, and spend all my savings on my DUI case and lawyer and fees, I was left with $5 on my account, lost my 2 jobs and still didn't qualify for a public defender... I was devastated, stressed out,angry and disappointed to know I was falsely accused by a cop, I was facing jail time and had no idea what I was going to do, thankfully I found lawyer Lauren Kristen Milks. Since the first time we met to talk about my case I knew I was in good hands, she really took her time to listen to my whole case and I could tell she really felt the dissapoiment and pain I was in. You can tell when a lawyer is there for you and to work for you, and when a lawyer just cares about the money and make you feel like you work for them. Lawyer Lauren Milks is the type of lawyer that really cares about her clients, and that sure does know how to do her job. After our first meeting I felt so much better, I knew she was more than capable to handle my case and win the case. At the end I was found not guilty, and charges dropped. I didn't even have to go on the stand, she made sure the cop knew he had no chance to win the case. Lauren Milks is the best, I truly recommend her, and once you do you will see why I am so confident to say she is worth every penny, she will fight for your case untill the very last second. Wish I had her for my DUI case.

Michael
January 9, 2018

I was facing criminal charges. I was informed it would be an uphill battle. The attorney who I thought would be handling the case informed me the day before the hearing that he had a conflict. I asked that he refer me to a very competent attorney to handle the case. That attorney was Lauren. She and I spoke over the phone for about 45 minutes the night before the hearing. I am certain she spent most of the rest of the evening researching the case law, and statutes. At the hearing she presented a defense so strong that the judge had no choice but to dismiss the case. I own a construction company, so I have worked with dozens of lawyers over the past 30 years, some of which are considered the best in the country. I can confidently say Lauren is definitely one of the best I have worked with. I could not more highly recommend her, she is that impressive.

anonymous
January 6, 2018

Lauren has proven to be a top notch attorney in her knowledgeable handling of my son’s case. She was very accessible and took the time to educate and prepare us every step of the way. Her years of experience in many facets of law were invaluable in guiding us through the process. She is a consummate professional and I would highly recommend her to anyone needing a criminal lawyer.

anonymous
November 25, 2019

After getting my underage I was incredibly stressed and worried about the implications it could have on my future. As I consulted with many lawyer, ultimately Lauren seemed like the best fit to represent me. Through out the process Lauren new exactly what needed to be done in order to put me in the best position possible when court arrived. She was always timely with her response and took everything incredibly serious. Because of how well she prepared me for court with all the necessary steps I needed to take, I had the best possible outcome for my situation thanks to Lauren. I would 100% recommend Lauren to anyone who needs legal advice or help.

Feisal
March 29, 2019

Lauren Dentone is an excellent attorney should anyone need a special and right kind of lawyer for anyone who would be looking for one! Lauren is a professional and great at what she knows and does. She helped me with my non-violent DUI case at the most difficult time of my life that potential could have led to jail time. Yet she was able to help me with the case and resulted to no jail time. I paid that is reasonably priced. She is very organized and on the task like clock work! She also has excellent communication and well articulated! If anyone needs an effective attorney and presents results call Lauren Dentone! Worth every penny!

Colleen
February 13, 2019

Lauren is steps above what you'd expect from an attorney. She is articulate, empathetic and consistent in her legal representation. I came to her with a mess of custody information and she took the time to efficiently review everything. I was really lost with all the legalities presented to me and she was beyond wonderful in her explaining everything with such clarity. She encouraged and lifted me up but also kept me level headed in her guidance. Recognizing that I was trying to do the right thing (with such a small amount of time), she made the absolute best of our time. She was not only thorough with preparing me and my arguments, but her confidence in me was amplified through each step. She took the time to get to know me, without being too personal or taking time away from the custody case. Evaluating the entire picture, studying and analyzing from all sides, Lauren got the absolute best result I could have asked for. I could not be more thankful in her representation of myself and my daughter. Her experience in her field is recognized in her ability to stand above the rest in a court room. While my family and I felt nervous about our case, we had no questions about our representation as Lauren holds herself and her clients to a high standard. Lauren truly formed a powerful and focused team with my family. With all of our evidence, perseverance and drive we accomplished more than I ever expected. She truly has the ability to effectively execute a plan without a single hiccup. Lauren was (is) my light during some of the most trying times. I am forever grateful for her consistency and care. She is absolutely a top notch lawyer whom I will recommend time and time again. Thank you for everything you've done for us, Lauren. We are so grateful for you!!

anonymous
May 23, 2018

My Mother hired and worked with Lauren while I sat in jail waiting on my court date. She kept my family calm and stayed in close contact with my mother. Routinely texting/calling to check in and provide updates well outside of business hours. Lauren met with me personally before court court on the morning of. She asked me to relay the details in my own words. And then she listened... She actually listened until I was finished. She was straight with me, and said she'd be asking the court for a lot that day. Some minutes later she returned and with the slightest of smiles said .... she'd earned her keep. She'd not only got agreement from all sides on the 7-8 things requested, but, I was immediately released from the courtroom and allowed to return home to my family. I'll complete a couple personal housekeeping items on my own and return to court in 60 days to have the charges dropped. If you need help in West Chester or Chester County or anywhere where else for that matter, make sure you call Lauren. She's as good as they get and I'm extremely grateful she took my case.

anonymous
May 22, 2018

A recommendation that I am so glad I called. Lauren was able to calm me down regarding my son's case during his prison time. A drug & alcohol screening and a continuance in front of the judge was handled with her utmost confidence and experience. Follow up support contact reassured me I had chosen a terrific lawyer.

anonymous
May 10, 2018

Lauren did an excellent job expunging several charges from my record. She thinks analytically and has a keen understanding of the Pennsylvania judicial system. I had a very positive experience and am happy I choose to hire her. Unlike some larger law firms, Lauren promptly responded to all of my concerns and kept me up to date on the progression of my case. I highly recommend her.

Ann
February 1, 2018

We hired Lauren Milks to represent our college age son on a misdemeanor charge. Lauren was very responsive and professional throughout the process. In the world of law it was probably a small case for an attorney as experienced as Lauren. But she took the time to review the facts, meet with our son, and kept us appraised of her strategy. She was efficient and no nonsense and yet she was caring and empathetic. She advised us of all our options and possible outcomes giving us hope, but keeping our expectations realistic. She successfully got the misdemeanor charge reduced to a much lower offense. This outcome exceeded our expectations. I hope to never have to legal counsel again, but if we do need legal support I would hire her. I highly recommend her.

Daniel
January 10, 2018

My nightmare began when I received a letter on the mail by the court... I was being accused of driving under a suspend license, I was in shock, I didn't understand what was going on, specially since I was not driving anywhere because of my suspended license! I tried to reach up to the officer that was accusing me and even left a voicemail, I never got a call back or any response... I tried to apply for a public defender since at the time of the accusation I was just starting a new job since I lost the 2 jobs I had, and spend all my savings on my DUI case and lawyer and fees, I was left with $5 on my account, lost my 2 jobs and still didn't qualify for a public defender... I was devastated, stressed out,angry and disappointed to know I was falsely accused by a cop, I was facing jail time and had no idea what I was going to do, thankfully I found lawyer Lauren Kristen Milks. Since the first time we met to talk about my case I knew I was in good hands, she really took her time to listen to my whole case and I could tell she really felt the dissapoiment and pain I was in. You can tell when a lawyer is there for you and to work for you, and when a lawyer just cares about the money and make you feel like you work for them. Lawyer Lauren Milks is the type of lawyer that really cares about her clients, and that sure does know how to do her job. After our first meeting I felt so much better, I knew she was more than capable to handle my case and win the case. At the end I was found not guilty, and charges dropped. I didn't even have to go on the stand, she made sure the cop knew he had no chance to win the case. Lauren Milks is the best, I truly recommend her, and once you do you will see why I am so confident to say she is worth every penny, she will fight for your case untill the very last second. Wish I had her for my DUI case.

Michael
January 9, 2018

I was facing criminal charges. I was informed it would be an uphill battle. The attorney who I thought would be handling the case informed me the day before the hearing that he had a conflict. I asked that he refer me to a very competent attorney to handle the case. That attorney was Lauren. She and I spoke over the phone for about 45 minutes the night before the hearing. I am certain she spent most of the rest of the evening researching the case law, and statutes. At the hearing she presented a defense so strong that the judge had no choice but to dismiss the case. I own a construction company, so I have worked with dozens of lawyers over the past 30 years, some of which are considered the best in the country. I can confidently say Lauren is definitely one of the best I have worked with. I could not more highly recommend her, she is that impressive.

anonymous
January 6, 2018

Lauren has proven to be a top notch attorney in her knowledgeable handling of my son’s case. She was very accessible and took the time to educate and prepare us every step of the way. Her years of experience in many facets of law were invaluable in guiding us through the process. She is a consummate professional and I would highly recommend her to anyone needing a criminal lawyer.

anonymous
November 25, 2019

After getting my underage I was incredibly stressed and worried about the implications it could have on my future. As I consulted with many lawyer, ultimately Lauren seemed like the best fit to represent me. Through out the process Lauren new exactly what needed to be done in order to put me in the best position possible when court arrived. She was always timely with her response and took everything incredibly serious. Because of how well she prepared me for court with all the necessary steps I needed to take, I had the best possible outcome for my situation thanks to Lauren. I would 100% recommend Lauren to anyone who needs legal advice or help.

Feisal
March 29, 2019

Lauren Dentone is an excellent attorney should anyone need a special and right kind of lawyer for anyone who would be looking for one! Lauren is a professional and great at what she knows and does. She helped me with my non-violent DUI case at the most difficult time of my life that potential could have led to jail time. Yet she was able to help me with the case and resulted to no jail time. I paid that is reasonably priced. She is very organized and on the task like clock work! She also has excellent communication and well articulated! If anyone needs an effective attorney and presents results call Lauren Dentone! Worth every penny!

Colleen
February 13, 2019

Lauren is steps above what you'd expect from an attorney. She is articulate, empathetic and consistent in her legal representation. I came to her with a mess of custody information and she took the time to efficiently review everything. I was really lost with all the legalities presented to me and she was beyond wonderful in her explaining everything with such clarity. She encouraged and lifted me up but also kept me level headed in her guidance. Recognizing that I was trying to do the right thing (with such a small amount of time), she made the absolute best of our time. She was not only thorough with preparing me and my arguments, but her confidence in me was amplified through each step. She took the time to get to know me, without being too personal or taking time away from the custody case. Evaluating the entire picture, studying and analyzing from all sides, Lauren got the absolute best result I could have asked for. I could not be more thankful in her representation of myself and my daughter. Her experience in her field is recognized in her ability to stand above the rest in a court room. While my family and I felt nervous about our case, we had no questions about our representation as Lauren holds herself and her clients to a high standard. Lauren truly formed a powerful and focused team with my family. With all of our evidence, perseverance and drive we accomplished more than I ever expected. She truly has the ability to effectively execute a plan without a single hiccup. Lauren was (is) my light during some of the most trying times. I am forever grateful for her consistency and care. She is absolutely a top notch lawyer whom I will recommend time and time again. Thank you for everything you've done for us, Lauren. We are so grateful for you!!

anonymous
May 23, 2018

My Mother hired and worked with Lauren while I sat in jail waiting on my court date. She kept my family calm and stayed in close contact with my mother. Routinely texting/calling to check in and provide updates well outside of business hours. Lauren met with me personally before court court on the morning of. She asked me to relay the details in my own words. And then she listened... She actually listened until I was finished. She was straight with me, and said she'd be asking the court for a lot that day. Some minutes later she returned and with the slightest of smiles said .... she'd earned her keep. She'd not only got agreement from all sides on the 7-8 things requested, but, I was immediately released from the courtroom and allowed to return home to my family. I'll complete a couple personal housekeeping items on my own and return to court in 60 days to have the charges dropped. If you need help in West Chester or Chester County or anywhere where else for that matter, make sure you call Lauren. She's as good as they get and I'm extremely grateful she took my case.

anonymous
May 22, 2018

A recommendation that I am so glad I called. Lauren was able to calm me down regarding my son's case during his prison time. A drug & alcohol screening and a continuance in front of the judge was handled with her utmost confidence and experience. Follow up support contact reassured me I had chosen a terrific lawyer.

anonymous
May 10, 2018

Lauren did an excellent job expunging several charges from my record. She thinks analytically and has a keen understanding of the Pennsylvania judicial system. I had a very positive experience and am happy I choose to hire her. Unlike some larger law firms, Lauren promptly responded to all of my concerns and kept me up to date on the progression of my case. I highly recommend her.

Ann
February 1, 2018

We hired Lauren Milks to represent our college age son on a misdemeanor charge. Lauren was very responsive and professional throughout the process. In the world of law it was probably a small case for an attorney as experienced as Lauren. But she took the time to review the facts, meet with our son, and kept us appraised of her strategy. She was efficient and no nonsense and yet she was caring and empathetic. She advised us of all our options and possible outcomes giving us hope, but keeping our expectations realistic. She successfully got the misdemeanor charge reduced to a much lower offense. This outcome exceeded our expectations. I hope to never have to legal counsel again, but if we do need legal support I would hire her. I highly recommend her.

Daniel
January 10, 2018

My nightmare began when I received a letter on the mail by the court... I was being accused of driving under a suspend license, I was in shock, I didn't understand what was going on, specially since I was not driving anywhere because of my suspended license! I tried to reach up to the officer that was accusing me and even left a voicemail, I never got a call back or any response... I tried to apply for a public defender since at the time of the accusation I was just starting a new job since I lost the 2 jobs I had, and spend all my savings on my DUI case and lawyer and fees, I was left with $5 on my account, lost my 2 jobs and still didn't qualify for a public defender... I was devastated, stressed out,angry and disappointed to know I was falsely accused by a cop, I was facing jail time and had no idea what I was going to do, thankfully I found lawyer Lauren Kristen Milks. Since the first time we met to talk about my case I knew I was in good hands, she really took her time to listen to my whole case and I could tell she really felt the dissapoiment and pain I was in. You can tell when a lawyer is there for you and to work for you, and when a lawyer just cares about the money and make you feel like you work for them. Lawyer Lauren Milks is the type of lawyer that really cares about her clients, and that sure does know how to do her job. After our first meeting I felt so much better, I knew she was more than capable to handle my case and win the case. At the end I was found not guilty, and charges dropped. I didn't even have to go on the stand, she made sure the cop knew he had no chance to win the case. Lauren Milks is the best, I truly recommend her, and once you do you will see why I am so confident to say she is worth every penny, she will fight for your case untill the very last second. Wish I had her for my DUI case.

Michael
January 9, 2018

I was facing criminal charges. I was informed it would be an uphill battle. The attorney who I thought would be handling the case informed me the day before the hearing that he had a conflict. I asked that he refer me to a very competent attorney to handle the case. That attorney was Lauren. She and I spoke over the phone for about 45 minutes the night before the hearing. I am certain she spent most of the rest of the evening researching the case law, and statutes. At the hearing she presented a defense so strong that the judge had no choice but to dismiss the case. I own a construction company, so I have worked with dozens of lawyers over the past 30 years, some of which are considered the best in the country. I can confidently say Lauren is definitely one of the best I have worked with. I could not more highly recommend her, she is that impressive.

anonymous
January 6, 2018

Lauren has proven to be a top notch attorney in her knowledgeable handling of my son’s case. She was very accessible and took the time to educate and prepare us every step of the way. Her years of experience in many facets of law were invaluable in guiding us through the process. She is a consummate professional and I would highly recommend her to anyone needing a criminal lawyer.