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2024

Last updated:

Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Stockton

Our Recommended Top 18

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Stockton Criminal Defense Attorneys on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

224

Reviewed

141

Curated

18

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
1151 W. Robinhood C 8, Stockton, CA 95207

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of David A. Barzaga is based in Stockton and has another office in Sacramento, along with serving surrounding communities for over 10 years. The firm handles cases of traffic misdemeanors and infractions, including DUIs. Attorney Barzaga and his team have provided criminal defense and DMV defense services for Class A drivers, truck drivers, and other professional drivers that must keep their records clean. The firm also takes on cases of probates, wills, and trusts.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
David Barzaga - Principal20 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Avvo
5.0 / 5 (26)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (20)
Google
4.2 / 5 (6)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
1240 W. Robinhood Dr. Suite H, Stockton, CA 95207

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Emily M. Chrim has been representing citizens and non-citizens facing criminal charges in state and federal courts. It defends clients accused of crimes such as assault, domestic violence, drug-related offenses, DUI, homicide, and robbery to help them avoid deportation. The Stockton-based firm also helps people find a path to legal immigration and handles naturalization and status adjustment matters. Its founder, Emily M. Chrim, has been a featured speaker on U.S. immigration laws at conferences.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (7)
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)
Avvo
5.0 / 5 (3)

(+1 additional source)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
210 E Center St Ste 10, Manteca, CA 95336

Why choose this provider?

John W Noonan PC provides professional legal representation to clients in the Stockton metro area. This firm focuses on defending clients facing misdemeanor and felony criminal charges including theft, sex, violence, juvenile, and drug charges. Backed by over 55 years of experience, attorney John Noonan also assists clients with charges related to DUI, traffic violations, and false allegations. The firm appears on the 2019 U.S. News Best Law Firms list. Clients can reach this law firm 24/7.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
John Noonan - Founding Attorney61 yrs
John Noonan - Founding Attorney61 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
3.9
Google
3.4 / 5 (5)
Avvo
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
343 E Main St Ste 812, Stockton, CA 95202

Why choose this provider?

Trosclair Law Center has provided legal counsel in the Stockton area for more than five years. Founder Kathy Lynn Trosclair defends clients accused of misdemeanors and felonies. The firm's cases include drug offenses, driving under the influence, and violent felonies. Trosclair Law Center also represents clients in family law matters, including divorce, custody and visitation, and child and spousal support. It provides same-day appointments for urgent criminal defense situations and restraining and protective orders.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Kathy Trosclair - Principal10 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
3.8
Facebook
3.4 / 5 (12)
Avvo
4.6 / 5 (11)
Google
3.7 / 5 (3)

(+1 additional source)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
31 E Channel St Ste 218, Stockton, CA 95202

Why choose this provider?

Founded in 1979, Moorad, Clark, and Stewart is a law firm serving clients in the Stockton metro area. The firm defends clients charged with a variety of criminal offenses through all aspects of a case, from evidence collection, witness testimony, and documentation to post-conviction relief, and its attorneys have high-profile trial experience. Moorad, Clark, and Stewart also handles personal injury, workers' compensation, family law, and wrongful termination matters. Owner Adam Stewart is admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Adam Stewart - Owner31 yrs
Lawrence Niermeyer - Associate33 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Google
4.6 / 5 (10)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
2.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
1120 14th St,, Modesto, CA 95354
  • Domestic Violence

Why choose this provider?

Preciliano Martinez Law Office has been representing the accused in criminal defense cases in Stockton and the surrounding communities since 1980. The law firm helps individuals with criminal law matters, including domestic violence, fraud, assault, theft, and sex crimes. It provides legal counsel and consultation to various clients, including celebrities, business leaders, athletes, performers, and professionals. Preciliano Martinez, its attorney, has handled over 3,100 cases and has more than 40 years of experience in the legal field.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (21)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (7)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
343 E. Main Street #319, Stockton, CA 95202
  • Drug Crimes
  • DWI/DUI
  • Domestic Violence

Why choose this provider?

Lew Wentz, Attorney at Law, provides criminal defense on behalf of individuals accused of a crime in the Stockton area. Wentz has been in practice for over 40 years, handling cases that involve drug and gun charges, murder, assault, and domestic violence. He previously served as a public defender and a Judge Pro Tem, using this experience to navigate the ins-and-outs of the court. His representation resulted in successful judgments. Wentz also works on traffic violation cases and provides DUI defense.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
210 E Center St, Manteca, CA 95336
  • DWI/DUI
  • Domestic Violence
  • Drug Crimes

Why choose this provider?

Leah Gillis Law represents clients in various legal issues in Stockton. It defends individuals involved in criminal law proceedings, such as assault, theft, weapons charges, DUI, juvenile cases, and drug charges. In addition, the firm handles expungements and sealing and destroying arrest records. Gillis brings over nearly a decade of legal experience dedicated to criminal defense. She serves as vice-chair of the San Joaquin County Bar Association. She is also the supervising attorney for pro bono veterans' expungement clinics for Dignity Alcove and OneJustice.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.7
Avvo
5.0 / 5 (7)
Google
5.0 / 5 (4)
Facebook
3.7 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2904 Pacific Ave., Stockton, CA 95204

Why choose this provider?

Antoinette J. Duron Attorney at Law assists Stockton locals in various criminal matters. Duron represents defendants in bench warrant hearings for probation violations, license suspension, and contempt-of-court cases. She and her team guide in filing and handling expungement, as well as presenting defense arguments for restraining order objections. Prior to practicing law, Duron worked in the real estate industry as a notary signing agent. She has served over 20,000 clients, including title companies, banks, and investors.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
215 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton, CA 95202
  • Federal Crime
  • Juvenile Crimes
  • DWI/DUI
  • Drug Crimes

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Jovanni S. Garcia Attorney at Law provides legal services to clients across the Stockton metro and the surrounding cities. It defends individuals facing driving, fraud, drug, gang, and burglary crimes to protect their rights and help reduce legal consequences. It also caters to clients arrested for violent criminal charges, such as battery and assault, child abuse and endangerment, domestic violence, and assault with deadly weapons. The law firm also handles cases on federal and juvenile crimes.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Google
4.4 / 5 (5)
Avvo
3.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
1.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
––
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2291 W March Ln Ste D210, Stockton, CA 95207

Why choose this provider?

Since 2013, the Law Firm of Temica Smith has represented clients facing criminal charges in the Stockton metro area. Ms. Smith aggressively defends and advocates for people facing charges that include murder, assault, sex crimes, and DUI and drug offenses. This firm also handles juvenile cases involving such charges as underage drinking, trespassing, truancy, shoplifting, and vandalism as well as drug possession and gang activity. In addition, the Law Firm of Temica Smith handles family and divorce law matters.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Temica Smith - Principal11 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
3.9
Google
4.0 / 5 (76)
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (20)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
2.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
343 E Main St Ste 318, Stockton, CA 95202

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Brian Lafferty is a criminal defense and personal injury law firm in Stockton that works to defend the rights of those charged with driving under the influence, assault, domestic violence, and major felonies. Areas of personal injury practice include motor vehicle accidents and animal attacks. Founder Brian Lafferty has over 14 years of experience in both criminal defense and personal injury. He works with the Division of Juvenile Justice, providing outreach to at-risk youth.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Brian Lafferty - Principal24 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (13)
Google
4.6 / 5 (9)
Avvo
5.0 / 5 (9)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
6 South El Dorado St., #335:, Stockton, CA 95202
  • DWI/DUI

Why choose this provider?

Carash Law has served the Stockton metro and surrounding areas for over three decades. The firm works on criminal defense matters, including homicide, white-collar crimes, traffic violations, and DUI. Its lawyers help the accused receive fair outcomes by defending their legal rights, explaining various legal options, and creating solid defenses. Joel Carash, the senior counsel, started his legal career working as a trial attorney at the San Joaquin County Public Defender’s Office in 1969. He is a member of the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.7

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
7488 Shoreline Dr, Stockton, CA 95219

Why choose this provider?

Since 2002, The Law Offices of Allen Sawyer has handled criminal defense cases in the Stockton metro area. Mr. Sawyer has a reputation for defending people facing criminal marijuana charges. He defends clients charged with felonies and misdemeanors involving aiding and abetting and conspiracy; violent crimes, such as assault and homicide; and property crimes, such as burglary and larceny. This firm also handles high-profile cases involving white-collar crime, embezzlement, fraud, forgery, and computer crimes.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Allen Sawyer - Principal30 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.8
Google
4.8 / 5 (40)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (16)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (7)

(+1 additional source)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
3439 Brookside Road, Stockton, CA 95219

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Douglas A Goss is a criminal defense law firm that services residents of Stockton. It represents clients who are involved in criminal cases. Its team of lawyers investigates witnesses, surveillance footage, and other forms of evidence to prove the client's innocence. The firm also provides second opinions on cases, especially for ones that have been dragged out for too long. Douglas Goss is the founder of the company. He worked for the Stockton Police Department for 16 years before becoming a lawyer.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Douglas Goss - Principal Attorney35 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Google
3.9 / 5 (45)
Yelp
3.5 / 5 (35)
Avvo
4.5 / 5 (20)

(+1 additional source)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
4.5
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2001 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95204

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Dru Vincent Hunt is a criminal defense law practice representing the residents of Stockton and its surrounding areas. It defends the rights of those involved in unlawful search and seizures by the police. The legal team carefully reviews each case to prove a search was unconstitutional and get the charges dismissed. Other related criminal defense services include handling appeals and engaging in post conviction relief actions.

Attorney Information

Attorney NamesExperience
Dru Hunt - Founder11 yrs

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
19 N California St, Stockton, CA 95202
  • DWI/DUI
  • Domestic Violence
  • Drug Crimes

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Jacob Loyal Benguerel counsels and represents clients in Stockton. It takes on felony and misdemeanor criminal cases, including drug offenses, theft crimes, assault and battery, domestic violence, DUI, and gun possession. Jacob Benguerel, the firm's lawyer, advocates for his clients from the plea negotiation stage through trial, helping them achieve justice and freedom. Benguerel has handled around 100 trials and 1,000 cases since 2008. He previously worked for the Sheriff's Department and the Probation Department in San Joaquin County.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Avvo
5.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
418 14th St, Modesto, CA 95354
  • DWI/DUI
  • Domestic Violence
  • Drug Crimes
  • Juvenile Crimes
  • Theft & Burglary

Why choose this provider?

Roth Legal has been helping clients with criminal defense matters in Stockton and the surrounding communities since 2013. It represents individuals in criminal defense cases, such as DUI, murder, fraud, sex crimes, and weapon charges. It also provides legal counsel to people accused of theft, domestic violence, probation violation, assault, and juvenile crimes. Ryan Roth, the firm's lawyer, is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Yelp
4.4 / 5 (11)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Disclaimer:  Consumers utilizing Expertise.com are free to communicate and contract with any lawyer they choose. Expertise.com is not involved in the confidential attorney-client relationship. Featured lawyers pay a reasonable advertising cost to market their legal services withExpertise.com and must meet similar selection criteria as other lawyers. All cases are different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Stockton, California?

    209-937-8377 is the non-emergency contact number of the Stockton Police Department.

  • What should you do if you or your loved one is arrested in Stockton?

    Refrain from making statements or divulging information to law enforcement officials until you have spoken with a lawyer. Be aware of the specific charges you or your loved one is facing and the potential ramifications of being found guilty. Employing the services of a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Stockton is highly recommended, as they can safeguard your rights and formulate a solid defense strategy. They can offer assistance and encouragement throughout the legal proceeding, including conducting thorough investigations and arranging plea bargains.

  • What are the common cases that criminal defense attorneys handle in Stockton?

    The common cases criminal defense attorneys handle in Stockton are:

    • Theft crime defense, from petty theft to armed robbery
    • White-collar crimes and other federal criminal charges
    • Defense against drug charges such as possession, trafficking, and manufacturing
    • DUI/Drunk driving defense, including DUID and boating under the influence
    • Defense for juvenile crimes, which includes cases where children are tried as adults
    • Defense for sex crimes, including child pornography charges
  • How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Stockton?

    Most attorneys in Stockton charge a flat fee for their services. The fee can vary depending on the case's complexity, the attorney's experience, and other factors. Remember that the cost of a criminal defense attorney is a significant investment, and hiring an attorney based solely on cost may not be the best decision for your case. It's essential to balance the cost of the attorney with the quality of their services and their track record of success in criminal defense cases.

  • What are the potential penalties for a criminal conviction in Stockton?

    Criminal convictions in California, including Stockton, can come with severe penalties. Some of these include probation, post-release supervision (PRCS), or parole, custody in jail or prison, restitution and fines, waiver of Fourth Amendment rights (searched anytime by the government), and registration as a sex, drug, or gang offender. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer for your case may help avoid or minimize these penalties.

  • How can a criminal defense attorney in Stockton help you with a DUI case?

    In case you are charged with DUI, a criminal defense lawyer in Stockton will be available to assist you in examining your legal alternatives, disputing the outcomes of the breath test, and acting as your representative in court to obtain a reduction or dismissal of the charges. A DUI arrest is a severe offense that may result in the revocation of your driving privileges, significant financial penalties, and possible imprisonment.