Alameda · Contra Costa · San Francisco County
Bay Area Criminal Defense Attorney
Whatever you have been accused of, the first days matter most. We defend people across Alameda, Contra Costa and San Francisco counties — and we start with a free, confidential conversation.
- Former Alameda County Bar Association President leading the firm
- A team that defends these cases every week, not occasionally
- Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff
- Free, confidential case evaluation — no obligation
Talk to a defense attorney
Free and confidential. We answer 24/7.
Thank you — we have your details
Someone from our intake team will call you shortly. If this is urgent, call us now on (510) 567-7451 — we answer 24/7.
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What is at stake
Most of the people we represent have never been arrested before. They are not career criminals; they are somebody who made a mistake, was in the wrong place, or was accused by somebody with their own reasons. The system does not slow down to account for that. We do.
Before charges are filed
There is often a window to reach the prosecutor before a case is even filed. Most people miss it.
After an arrest
Arraignment, bail and the terms of your release are decided fast. You want somebody there.
Your record
A conviction follows you into hiring, housing, licensing and immigration long after the case closes.
Charges we defend
- Domestic violence
- Restraining orders
- Assault and battery
- DUI and driving offences
- Sex offences
- Theft and burglary
- Drug charges
- Weapons charges
- Fraud
- Felonies
- Post-conviction relief
If police contact you in California
If police stop you, call you, or say they just want to ask a few questions, be careful — even a casual conversation becomes part of the case. Stay respectful. Do not argue, do not try to explain, and do not try to talk your way out of it on the spot. If your rights were violated, that is dealt with later, properly, through the process.
You can say:
- “Am I being detained, or am I free to leave?”
- “I am invoking my right to remain silent.”
- “I want a lawyer.”
- “I do not consent to a search.”
What happens when you call
01
You speak to a person
Not a call centre and not a voicemail. Our intake team answers 24/7 and takes the details of your situation.
02
Free case evaluation
An attorney reviews what you are facing, explains the process ahead, and answers your questions. No cost, no obligation.
03
A plan, in writing
If we take your case you get clear next steps and transparent fees before you commit to anything.
What our clients say
★★★★★
4.8 out of 5 on Google.
Read them on Google →
★★★★★
“The Nieves Law Firm is, without question, the most exceptional legal team I have ever worked with. I originally chose them because of the firm's founding attorney, Jo-Anna Nieves. Her background as a past President of the Alameda County Bar Association — and her credibility as a contributor on Nancy Grace…”
Ms. E.Google review · 7 months ago
★★★★★
“Going through a TRO case is incredibly stressful, but having the right lawyer changed everything. My attorney was sharp, organized, and genuinely cared about my outcome. They explained the process clearly, prepared thoroughly, and made sure my side was fully and accurately presented.”
Alina A.Google review · 5 months ago
★★★★★
“It started with our intake person Aaron and quickly moved to getting assigned an attorney, Michael Levinsohn, who is well qualified to handle restraining order cases. It was great to know his years of experience and being bilingual…”
Elvira G.Google review · a year ago
Testimonials reflect the experience of individual clients. They are not a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other case.
Questions people ask us
The police contacted me but I have not been charged
This is the most useful moment to have a lawyer, and the one people most often let pass. Before charges are filed there is still room to present your side to the prosecutor. Do not speak to investigators on your own first.
Should I talk to the police?
Not without a lawyer. You are entitled to say that you want an attorney present, and doing so is not an admission of anything.
What does it cost?
The case evaluation is free. If we take your case we quote a flat fee in writing before you commit, so you know the cost up front.
¿Hablan español?
Sí. Tenemos abogados y personal que hablan español. Vea esta página en español.
The sooner we start, the more we can do
Free, confidential case evaluation. We answer 24 hours a day.