When you face criminal charges in Los Angeles, a skilled attorney by your side can make all the difference.
The city’s complex legal system demands experienced professionals who understand local laws and court procedures.
Your choice of legal representation could significantly impact the outcome of your case.
The best criminal lawyers in Los Angeles combine deep legal knowledge with strong advocacy skills to protect your rights and interests. These attorneys have proven track records of success in handling various criminal cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
They work tirelessly to build robust defense strategies, negotiate with prosecutors, and present compelling arguments in court.
By choosing a top-rated criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles, you gain a powerful ally in navigating the legal system and pursuing the best possible resolution for your case.
1) Alan Jackson
Alan Jackson is a prominent criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles.
With a career spanning over two decades, he has established himself as one of the most sought-after lawyers in the field.
Jackson’s legal career began at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
This experience provided him with invaluable insights into prosecution strategies, which he now leverages in his defense work.
His transition to criminal defense has been remarkably successful.
Jackson boasts an impressive 96% career success rate, a testament to his legal acumen and dedication to his clients.
You’ll find Jackson’s expertise particularly valuable if you’re facing complex criminal charges.
He has handled high-profile cases and is known for his ability to navigate intricate legal situations.
Jackson’s achievements have not gone unnoticed.
He has been named one of California’s Top 100 Lawyers and has consistently received recognition from his peers in the legal community.
When you choose Jackson as your attorney, you benefit from his unique perspective.
He understands criminal cases from both the prosecution and defense angles, allowing him to develop comprehensive strategies for your case.
Jackson’s law firm, Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, is located in Los Angeles.
If you’re seeking top-tier legal representation, Jackson’s track record and expertise make him a strong choice for your criminal defense needs.
2) Johnnie Cochran
Johnnie Cochran was a legendary figure in Los Angeles criminal law.
You may recognize his name from high-profile cases, but his impact extended far beyond the courtroom.
Cochran’s legal career began in the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office in 1963.
He quickly established himself as a formidable advocate for justice and civil rights.
In 1981, Cochran opened his own law firm in Los Angeles.
This office became the foundation for what would grow into The Cochran Firm, a nationwide network of skilled attorneys.
You might be interested to know that Cochran’s dedication to his clients was unwavering.
He fought tirelessly for the rights of ordinary citizens, often taking on cases that others deemed too challenging.
Cochran’s legacy continues to inspire lawyers today.
The Cochran Firm, founded over 40 years ago, still operates with the same principles of justice and equality that Cochran championed throughout his career.
If you’re looking for a criminal lawyer in Los Angeles, consider the impact Cochran had on the legal landscape.
His commitment to excellence and passion for justice set a high standard for attorneys in the city.
3) Mark Geragos
Mark Geragos is a prominent criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
As the Principal with Geragos & Geragos, he has built a reputation as a formidable trial attorney.
You may recognize Geragos from high-profile cases involving celebrities.
He has represented clients such as Michael Jackson, Chris Brown, and Scott Peterson, garnering significant media attention.
Geragos’s skill in the courtroom has earned him prestigious accolades.
He has been named California Lawyer of the Year in Civil Litigation and received the Trial Lawyer of the Year award from the Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association.
His legal career spans several decades, during which he has handled both state and federal cases.
Geragos gained national recognition for his back-to-back jury trial acquittals for Whitewater figure Susan McDougal.
You can find Geragos’s office at 644 South Figueroa Street in Los Angeles.
His firm, Geragos & Geragos, is known for its dedication to client advocacy and achieving favorable results.
If you’re seeking a criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience in high-stakes cases, Mark Geragos could be an option to consider.
His track record and recognition in the legal community speak to his capabilities as a defense attorney.
4) Leslie Abramson
Leslie Abramson is a renowned criminal defense attorney who gained national attention for her role in high-profile cases.
You might recognize her as the fierce advocate for Erik Menendez during the sensational Menendez brothers’ trial.
Born on October 6, 1943, in Queens, New York, Abramson later moved to California to pursue her legal career.
She attended law school at UCLA and quickly established herself as a formidable presence in the courtroom.
You’ll find that Abramson’s reputation precedes her.
She’s been described as a brilliant defense lawyer for death-row cases, showcasing her expertise in handling complex and high-stakes criminal trials.
Her tenacious courtroom style and unwavering dedication to her clients have earned her both admirers and critics.
You may remember her passionate defense strategies and media presence during the Menendez trial, which captivated the nation.
Abramson’s career spans decades, during which she has taken on numerous challenging cases.
Her experience and track record make her a sought-after attorney for those facing serious criminal charges in Los Angeles.
If you’re looking for a defense lawyer with a proven history of tackling difficult cases, Abramson’s name often comes up in legal circles.
Her commitment to her clients and her ability to navigate complex legal situations have solidified her position as one of Los Angeles’ most notable criminal defense attorneys.
5) Thomas Mesereau
Thomas Mesereau is a renowned criminal defense attorney based in Los Angeles.
His expertise lies in handling complex, high-stakes criminal cases in both federal and state courts.
You may recognize Mesereau as the lawyer who successfully defended Michael Jackson.
His track record extends far beyond celebrity cases, encompassing a wide range of white-collar criminal defenses.
Mesereau’s dedication to achieving the best results for his clients has earned him numerous accolades.
He was named the 2022 Los Angeles “Lawyer of the Year” for Criminal Defense: General Practice by Best Lawyers.
If you’re seeking legal representation, you’ll find Mesereau’s office at 10100 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90067.
His firm, Mesereau Law Group, specializes in obtaining favorable outcomes in challenging criminal cases.
Mesereau’s legal education includes a degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, where he graduated in 1979.
His experience and education have contributed to his reputation as one of the top criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles.
In addition to his legal practice, Mesereau has served as the President of the National Litigation Counsel of America.
This leadership role further demonstrates his standing in the legal community.
6) Robert Shapiro
Robert Shapiro is a prominent figure in Los Angeles’ legal landscape.
You may recognize him as one of the most influential attorneys in America, according to the National Law Journal.
Shapiro’s career spans decades, with expertise in various legal areas.
You’ll find his experience invaluable if you’re facing complex business litigation, class actions, or white-collar defense cases.
His educational background is impressive.
Shapiro earned his law degree from Loyola Law School in 1968, after completing his undergraduate studies at UCLA.
If you’re seeking a seasoned criminal defense attorney, Shapiro’s track record is noteworthy.
He gained international recognition as part of O.J. Simpson’s defense team in the high-profile 1995 case.
Beyond his legal practice, Shapiro has shown commitment to social causes.
Following a personal tragedy, he founded The Brent Shapiro Foundation, a nonprofit organization addressing chemical dependency issues.
When you choose Shapiro as your attorney, you’re selecting a professional with extensive courtroom experience.
He’s been recognized as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” by the National Trial Lawyers Association.
Currently, Shapiro serves as a senior partner at Glaser Weil, where he continues to handle high-stakes litigation and provide expert legal counsel to both businesses and individuals.
7) Harland Braun
Harland Braun is a premier Los Angeles criminal defense attorney with over 50 years of experience in the legal profession.
As a named partner at Braun & Braun, LLP, he has built a reputation for handling high-profile cases with skill and expertise.
Braun was one of the first attorneys to be certified as a criminal specialist by the California Board of Legal Specialization in 1973.
This certification demonstrates his deep knowledge and expertise in criminal law.
Throughout his career, Braun has taken on numerous challenging and high-profile cases.
He successfully defended John Landis in the Twilight Zone manslaughter trial and represented Rep. Bobbi Fiedler against bribery charges.
If you’re looking for a seasoned criminal defense attorney, you’ll find that Braun’s office is conveniently located at 10880 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1020, Los Angeles.
You can reach out to him for legal representation in various criminal cases and proceedings.
Braun’s expertise extends to white-collar criminal defense as well.
He has been recognized as a top-rated attorney by Super Lawyers for multiple years, showcasing his consistent excellence in the field.
When you choose Harland Braun as your criminal defense attorney, you’re selecting a lawyer with a wealth of experience and a track record of success in complex criminal cases.
8) Richard Hutton
Richard A. Hutton is a highly respected criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles.
His expertise in DUI and criminal cases has made him a go-to lawyer for many high-profile clients.
As a Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization, you can trust Hutton’s deep knowledge of the law.
His experience is vast, having tried over 500 jury trials throughout his career.
You’ll find Hutton at the renowned law firm Hutton & Khalaf, which he co-founded in 1997.
The firm has offices in Century City and Pasadena, providing aggressive and effective legal defense for professionals and executives.
When you work with Hutton, you benefit from his 24/7 availability and commitment to protecting your rights.
He understands the importance of discretion, especially when handling cases for celebrities and high-profile individuals.
Hutton’s legal career began after he graduated from UCLA School of Law in 1970.
He has been practicing law since 1971, dedicating most of his career to representing accused individuals.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Los Angeles, you can contact Hutton & Khalaf for a free consultation.
Their team of experienced attorneys is ready to help you navigate your legal challenges.
9) Blair Berk
Blair Berk is a top-rated attorney practicing in West Hollywood, California.
Her expertise lies in criminal defense and white-collar crime cases, making her a go-to lawyer for those facing serious legal challenges.
You’ll find Berk’s office at 9119 Sunset Blvd in West Hollywood.
Her firm, Berk Brettler LLP, has established itself as a formidable presence in the Los Angeles legal community.
Berk’s reputation precedes her, as evidenced by her selection to Super Lawyers for the years 2006-2025.
This recognition speaks to her consistent excellence in the field of criminal law.
If you’re seeking a lawyer with academic prowess, Berk fits the bill.
She’s a member of Phi Beta Kappa, an honor society that recognizes outstanding academic achievement in the liberal arts and sciences.
Berk’s accolades extend beyond her peers’ recognition.
She has been named one of the Best Lawyers in America from 2005 to 2012, further cementing her status as a top-tier criminal defense attorney.
When you’re facing criminal charges or need representation in a white-collar crime case, Blair Berk’s experience and track record make her a strong choice for your legal needs in Los Angeles.
10) Leonard Levine
Leonard Levine is a highly respected criminal defense attorney based in Encino, California.
With decades of experience, he has built a reputation for excellence in handling complex criminal cases.
You can find Levine at his law firm, Levine, Flier and Flier, LLP, located on Ventura Boulevard in Encino.
His practice focuses primarily on criminal defense and white-collar crime cases.
Levine’s track record speaks for itself.
He has represented clients in over 80 felony jury trials, including high-stakes cases involving rape, robbery, insurance fraud, and even first-degree murder and death penalty cases.
What sets Levine apart is his impressive success rate.
He has reportedly obtained acquittals in over 90% of his trials, demonstrating his skill and effectiveness in the courtroom.
If you’re a school teacher or coach facing misconduct allegations, Levine may be particularly suited to your case.
He specializes in representing educators accused of misconduct toward students in misdemeanor trials.
Levine’s educational background includes a law degree from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law.
His expertise and dedication to his clients have earned him recognition, including multiple selections to Super Lawyers from 2004 to 2019.
When you need a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles with a proven track record, Leonard Levine should be on your shortlist of considerations.
Understanding Criminal Defense Law
Criminal defense law protects individuals accused of committing crimes.
It encompasses legal strategies and constitutional rights that safeguard defendants throughout the legal process.
The Role of Criminal Lawyers
Criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles play a crucial role in upholding justice.
They represent and advocate for individuals charged with criminal offenses.
Your attorney will investigate the case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense strategy.
They negotiate with prosecutors and represent you in court proceedings.
Criminal lawyers protect your constitutional rights, ensuring fair treatment by law enforcement and the justice system.
They challenge unlawful searches, coerced confessions, and other violations.
These attorneys also advise you on plea bargains and potential consequences of conviction.
Their expertise helps you make informed decisions about your case.
Key Aspects of Criminal Law
Criminal law covers a wide range of offenses, from misdemeanors to felonies.
Understanding the charges against you is crucial for your defense.
Key elements of criminal law include:
- Burden of proof: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
- Right to remain silent: You’re protected against self-incrimination
- Right to counsel: You’re entitled to legal representation
Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys handle various cases, including:
- Drug offenses
- Violent crimes
- White-collar crimes
- DUI charges
Your lawyer will explain relevant laws, potential penalties, and defense strategies specific to your case.
They’ll work to reduce charges, negotiate plea deals, or fight for acquittal at trial.
Qualities of Top Criminal Lawyers
When seeking legal representation in Los Angeles, certain attributes distinguish exceptional criminal defense attorneys.
These qualities ensure effective advocacy and optimal outcomes for clients facing criminal charges.
Experience and Expertise
Top criminal defense lawyers possess extensive experience in handling various types of cases.
You’ll want an attorney who specializes in criminal law and has a deep understanding of California’s legal system.
Look for lawyers with at least a decade of practice in criminal defense.
They should be well-versed in both state and federal laws.
Expertise in specific areas like DUI, drug offenses, or white-collar crimes can be crucial depending on your case.
Check if the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours.
Continuing education is vital.
The best attorneys stay updated on legal changes and regularly attend workshops and seminars.
Reputation and Track Record
A lawyer’s reputation and success rate are key indicators of their competence. Top-rated attorneys often have positive client reviews and professional accolades.
Examine their case history for favorable outcomes, including acquittals, charge reductions, and favorable plea bargains.
Look for recognition from legal organizations such as Super Lawyers or Avvo ratings.
These can provide insight into a lawyer’s standing among peers.
Client testimonials offer valuable perspectives on an attorney’s communication skills and dedication.
Pay attention to feedback about responsiveness and personal attention.
Consider the lawyer’s relationships with local prosecutors and judges.
Strong professional connections can be beneficial in negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles can be challenging.
Cost, expertise, and availability are key factors to consider when selecting legal representation.
How can I find a high-profile criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles?
You can research prominent attorneys like Alan Jackson, Mark Geragos, and Thomas Mesereau online.
Check their case history and client reviews.
Consult legal directories and bar associations for recommendations.
What options are available for affordable criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles?
Look for attorneys offering sliding scale fees or payment plans.
Consider public defenders if you qualify.
Research legal aid organizations that provide low-cost or pro bono services in Los Angeles.
Who is considered the best criminal defense attorney in California?
While “best” is subjective, attorneys like Johnnie Cochran and Leslie Abramson have earned reputations for their high-profile cases.
Research recent case outcomes and client testimonials to find top-rated attorneys.
Are there any criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles who offer free consultations?
Yes, many Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys offer free consultations.
This allows you to discuss your case and determine if the attorney is a good fit before committing to their services.
What should I expect to pay for a criminal lawyer’s services in California?
Fees vary widely based on the attorney’s experience and the complexity of your case.
Hourly rates can range from $200 to $500 or more.
Some attorneys charge flat fees for specific services.
Can I find a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles who will take a case pro bono?
Some attorneys may take cases pro bono, although this is rare.
Contact local legal aid organizations or bar associations for information on pro bono services.
You can also inquire directly with law firms about their pro bono policies.