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  1. United States
  2. Best Criminal Lawyers
  3. Criminal Lawyers in California
  4. Santa Cruz

Best Criminal Lawyers in Santa Cruz

4 in Santa Cruz · 17 nearby
Santa Cruz Criminal Lawyers stats: Key insights from this page’s listings Updated
Businesses listed
4 +17 nearby
Average rating
5.0 95 reviews
Typical service price
$1,000 – $4,500 Median of 10 priced services
Most-offered services
Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseGeneral Legal AdviceCourt RepresentationFamily Law Services
What customers praise
recommend×53highly recommend×29very knowledgeable×7helped me×6
Criminal law attorneySanta Cruz, CA

1

DUI Attorney Rick Gazipura Santa Cruz

Specializing in DUI defense since 2010, Rick Gazipura’s firm offers personalized legal strategies and thorough case evaluations for clients in Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley. The team handles DUI charges, expungements, and court representation, with clients appreciating clear communication and steady guidance throughout the process. Some note the complexity of DUI cases can require patience.

Services & Prices
Legal Representation $2000 - $5000
Post-Conviction Services $500 - $1500
Case Assessment $150 - $300
Strategic Legal Planning $500 - $1000
View Profile
(831) 226-1398
Open 00:00 - 23:59
101 Cooper St #309, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
General Services
DUI Defense
2

The Law Office of Leila Vaez-Iravani

Specializing in criminal defense, restraining orders, and post-conviction relief, The Law Office of Leila Vaez-Iravani offers personalized legal strategies with a focus on client dignity and respect. Clients appreciate the team’s clear communication, responsiveness, and compassionate support throughout often stressful cases. Some note the process can still feel challenging despite the attentive… more...

Specializing in criminal defense, restraining orders, and post-conviction relief, The Law Office of Leila Vaez-Iravani offers personalized legal strategies with a focus on client dignity and respect. Clients appreciate the team’s clear communication, responsiveness, and compassionate support throughout often stressful cases. Some note the process can still feel challenging despite the attentive guidance.

Services & Prices
Divorce Proceedings $1000 - $3000
Child Custody Cases $1500 - $3500
Adoption Services $2000 - $4000
Misdemeanor Defense $1000 - $5000
View Profile
(408) 656-1919
Open 00:00 - 23:59
765 Cedar St #202,Santa Cruz, CA 95060
General Services
Family Law Services
3

Law Offices of Andrew C. Janecki

With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense, the Law Offices of Andrew C. Janecki handle cases ranging from DUI and Title IX to violent and white-collar crimes. Clients appreciate the firm’s clear communication and compassionate guidance, though some note occasional difficulty reaching the office by phone.

Services & Prices
Felony Defense $5000 - $15000
Misdemeanor Defense $1500 - $5000
Traffic Violations $300 - $1000
View Profile
(831) 459-0427
Closed Now
1517 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
General Services
Criminal Defense
4

Law Office of Cherish Om - Criminal Defense & Family Lawyer

Specializing in both criminal defense and family law, this firm offers personalized legal guidance through cases like DUI, custody, and domestic violence. Clients appreciate clear communication, compassionate support, and thorough courtroom preparation, though some note the process can still feel stressful given the nature of the issues involved.

Services & Prices
Child Custody Agreement $200 - $500
Adoption Process Assistance $1000 - $3000
Plea Bargaining Services $1000 - $2500
Trial Representation $2500 - $10000
View Profile
(831) 281-4964
Closed Now
101 Cooper St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
General Services
Family Law
5

The Nieves Law Firm: San Jose Criminal Defense Attorneys

Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Verified

With over 96 years of combined experience, The Nieves Law Firm focuses on criminal defense cases including DUI, domestic violence, drug offenses, and restraining orders. Clients appreciate the team’s clear communication and compassionate approach, though some note occasional delays in case progress. The firm aims to protect clients’ rights at every stage.

Services & Prices
Record Vacating $800 - $1500
Case Representation $3000 - $5000
Plea Bargaining $1500 - $3000
Restraining Orders $500 - $1200
View Profile
(408) 528-2695
Closed Now
6840 Vía del Oro Suite 2651, San Jose, CA 95119, USA
General Services
Criminal Defense
Where they are 21 on the map Click a pin for the profile and directions
6

The G Law Firm - Ghazal Sharif

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Specializing in DUI defense, The G Law Firm - Ghazal Sharif offers personalized legal services focused on protecting clients’ rights and minimizing penalties. The team provides thorough case evaluations, court representation, and ongoing communication throughout the process. Clients appreciate their responsiveness and clear guidance during often stressful situations.

Services & Prices
DUI Defense $1500 - $3000
License Suspension Hearings $500 - $1000
Wet Reckless Reduction $1000 - $2000
Court Appearances $500 - $1500
View Profile
(925) 768-7718
Open 00:00 - 23:59
Plaza West, 3031 Tisch Way #110, San Jose, CA 95128, USA
General Services
DUI Legal Services
7

Szeto-Wong Law

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Szeto-Wong Law specializes in family law, employment law, and civil rights litigation, with certified specialists and a multilingual team fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Clients appreciate their personalized attention, clear communication, and compassionate guidance through complex legal challenges, though some note the firm’s services can be costly.

Services & Prices
Divorce Representation $2000 - $5000
Child Support Representation $1500 - $3500
Modification of Custody Agreement $1000 - $3000
Legal Representation $3000 - $10000
View Profile
(650) 425-6264
Closed Now
10080 N. Wolfe Rd, 200 Suite SW3, Cupertino, CA 95014, USA
General Services
Family Law Representation
8

Law Offices of Aaron Lipton

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Specializing in bankruptcy law for over a decade, the Law Offices of Aaron Lipton focuses on helping individuals and families regain financial stability through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings, foreclosure prevention, and loan modifications. Clients appreciate the team’s clear explanations, patient guidance, and personalized approach throughout the often complex and stressful process.

Services & Prices
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy $800 - $1500
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy $1000 - $3000
Bankruptcy Petition Preparation $300 - $600
Debt Settlement Agreement $150 - $400
View Profile
(831) 687-8711
Closed Now
538 Main St, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
General Services
Bankruptcy Services
9

Law Offices of Timothy D. Widman

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Specializing exclusively in U.S. immigration law since 2010, the Law Offices of Timothy D. Widman offers services including green card applications, work visas, and naturalization. Clients appreciate the firm’s thorough communication and personalized guidance, though some note the challenges of navigating delays with government agencies.

Services & Prices
Fiance Visa Application $1000 - $3000
Green Card Application $2000 - $5000
Adjustment of Status $1500 - $4000
View Profile
(408) 366-2801
Closed Now
10080 N. Wolfe Rd, 200 Suite SW3, Cupertino, CA 95014, USA
General Services
Immigration Services
10

Douglass Law Group

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Certified in estate planning and probate law, Douglass Law Group provides personalized legal guidance focused on wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and trust administration. Clients appreciate the team’s clear explanations and patient approach, though some find the process naturally detailed and time-consuming given the complexity involved.

Services & Prices
Living Trust Creation $1500 - $3000
Will Preparation $300 - $600
Trust Execution Guidance $500 - $1500
Trust Modification $600 - $1200
View Profile
(408) 577-3050
Closed Now
14457 Big Basin Wy, Saratoga, CA 95070, USA
General Services
Estate Planning
11

Law Office of Daniel Jensen, LLP

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

With 17 years of combined experience, this firm focuses on criminal defense, including domestic violence cases, offering close client communication throughout. Their team also handles family and civil law matters, and clients often mention the attorneys’ thoroughness and responsiveness, though one review notes a less friendly receptionist.

Services & Prices
Prenuptial Agreement $300 - $500
Child Custody $500 - $1500
Divorce Representation $1000 - $3000
Demand Letter $100 - $300
View Profile
Closed Now
4675 Stevens Creek Blvd #122, Santa Clara, CA 95051, USA
General Services
Family Law
12

Hales & George, Inc.

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

With over 50 years of experience and board-certified specialists, Hales & George focuses on estate planning, trust administration, probate, and business planning. Their team guides clients through complex legal matters with clear explanations and personalized attention. Clients appreciate their professionalism, responsiveness, and thorough approach to protecting family assets.

Services & Prices
Family Trust Setup $1000 - $3000
Will Preparation $200 - $1000
Power of Attorney $100 - $500
Trust Management $500 - $2000
View Profile
(408) 255-6292
Closed Now
19040 Cox Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070, USA
General Services
Estate Planning
13

Wade Litigation

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Wade Litigation specializes in civil lawsuits, family law, business litigation, probate, and real estate disputes, serving clients across California with nearly 20 years of experience. Their team offers personalized strategies and clear communication, though some clients have experienced inconsistency with attorney assignments early on. Many appreciate the firm’s professionalism and dedication… more...

Wade Litigation specializes in civil lawsuits, family law, business litigation, probate, and real estate disputes, serving clients across California with nearly 20 years of experience. Their team offers personalized strategies and clear communication, though some clients have experienced inconsistency with attorney assignments early on. Many appreciate the firm’s professionalism and dedication once matched with the right attorney.

Services & Prices
Child Custody $500 - $1000
Divorce Mediation $300 - $700
Adoption Assistance $2000 - $4000
Civil Litigation $300 - $700
View Profile
(888) 705-5059
Open 00:00 - 23:59
262 E Main St, Los Gatos, CA 95030, USA
General Services
Family Law
14

C. Alex Naegele, A Professional Law Corporation

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

With more than 15 years of experience, C. Alex Naegele, A Professional Law Corporation, offers legal services focused on corporate law, taxation, estate planning, litigation, and bankruptcy. The team works closely with entrepreneurs, landlords, and businesses, providing clear advice and strategic solutions. Clients appreciate the firm’s knowledgeable guidance and responsive communication… more...

With more than 15 years of experience, C. Alex Naegele, A Professional Law Corporation, offers legal services focused on corporate law, taxation, estate planning, litigation, and bankruptcy. The team works closely with entrepreneurs, landlords, and businesses, providing clear advice and strategic solutions. Clients appreciate the firm’s knowledgeable guidance and responsive communication throughout complex cases.

Services & Prices
Business Incorporation $300 - $500
Business Agreements $150 - $350
Corporate Governance $200 - $400
Divorce Proceedings $500 - $1500
View Profile
(408) 883-8994
Closed Now
10080 N Wolfe Rd Suite SW3200, Cupertino, CA 95014, USA
General Services
Corporate Law
15

Watsonville Law Center

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

With over 25 years serving low-income individuals on California’s Central Coast, Watsonville Law Center focuses on legal issues like workers’ rights, immigration, and consumer protection. The team offers direct representation and community education, with clients appreciating their helpful and kind approach, though reaching them by phone can sometimes be challenging.

Services & Prices
Project Planning $300 - $500
Progress Tracking $200 - $400
Onsite Training $1000 - $1500
Online Training $300 - $600
View Profile
(831) 722-2845
Closed Now
315 Main St #207, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
General Services
Project Management
16

California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. (CRLA)

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Serving primarily underserved rural communities, California Rural Legal Assistance focuses on legal aid in housing, employment, and public benefits. The team provides consultations and representation aimed at protecting rights and promoting social justice, though some clients note delays and limited capacity in handling certain cases.

Services & Prices
Eviction Prevention $0 - $50
Housing Counseling $0 - $30
Application Assistance $0 - $20
Public Benefits Guidance $0 - $50
View Profile
(831) 724-2253
Closed Now
21 Carr St, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
General Services
Housing Assistance
17

Law Offices of Richard J. Hess

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Specializing in estate planning for California residents, the Law Offices of Richard J. Hess offers services like wills, revocable living trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Clients appreciate the clear explanations and personalized approach, though some note the firm does not offer virtual consultations. The team focuses on making complex legal matters easier to understand.

Services & Prices
Living Trust Setup $1500 - $3000
Power of Attorney $200 - $500
Comprehensive Estate Plan $2500 - $5000
View Profile
(408) 872-0252
Closed Now
20465 Saratoga-Los Gatos Rd, Saratoga, CA 95070, USA
General Services
Estate Planning
18

Family Law Offices of Liliana S. Diaz, PC

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Specializing exclusively in family law, this firm handles divorce, custody, restraining orders, and related matters with a focus on clear communication and strategic planning. Clients appreciate the team’s compassionate approach and thorough guidance through difficult situations, though some cases can be lengthy due to their complex nature.

Services & Prices
Divorce Representation $1500 - $3000
Child Custody Arrangements $1000 - $2500
Spousal Support $500 - $2000
Business Formation $300 - $800
View Profile
(831) 722-2444
Closed Now
240 Westgate Dr, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
General Services
Family Law
19

James M Sullivan Law Offices

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

With over 50 years of experience, James M Sullivan Law Offices offers legal expertise in tax, estate planning, real estate, and business law. The team provides personalized guidance through complex legal matters, and clients often note their clear communication and supportive approach. Some have mentioned occasional issues with document handling during sensitive cases.

Services & Prices
Contested Divorce $3000 - $5000
Uncontested Divorce $1500 - $3000
Divorce Mediation $750 - $1500
Drafting Prenuptial Agreement $1000 - $2000
View Profile
(408) 395-3837
Closed Now
225 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030, USA
General Services
Divorce Services
20

Coward and Geisick, LLP

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Coward and Geisick, LLP is one of the top ten South Bay Law Firm because of the 45+ years of experience, dedication to client service, and specialized representation. The firm's personalized attention, extensive legal experience, and deep-rooted community ties make it an exceptional choice. Their specialization in multiple areas of law, including estate planning and litigation, provides clients… more...

Coward and Geisick, LLP is one of the top ten South Bay Law Firm because of the 45+ years of experience, dedication to client service, and specialized representation. The firm's personalized attention, extensive legal experience, and deep-rooted community ties make it an exceptional choice. Their specialization in multiple areas of law, including estate planning and litigation, provides clients with a reliable legal partner. Also, the McGeorge School of Law graduate, John H. Coward, founded the firm in 1976 and has always provided tailored legal solutions that impact community members. The strong reviews from clients say the firm has excellent communication and responsive service, which speaks to the firm's reputation and makes it one of the most sought-after law firms.

View Profile
(408) 358-3773
Closed Now
16450 Los Gatos Blvd, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA
21

Santa Cruz County Office of the Public Defender

Serves Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz County Office of the Public Defender is listed on the top 10 public defenders in the U.S. list because of its comprehensive holistic defense approach, innovative legal practices, and community involvement. This office is led by Heather Rogers, a champion of public defense reform, which is committed to justice, equity, and integrity, as well as to working for the community's benefit and… more...

Santa Cruz County Office of the Public Defender is listed on the top 10 public defenders in the U.S. list because of its comprehensive holistic defense approach, innovative legal practices, and community involvement. This office is led by Heather Rogers, a champion of public defense reform, which is committed to justice, equity, and integrity, as well as to working for the community's benefit and reducing incarceration rates. Notable lawyers and advocates like Lawrence Tripp and Hennah Vohra have made the public defender's office a success story. Besides being regularly trained and specialized in public defender challenges, the office is a crucial player for the community. Its exemplary practices promote personal and sensitive legal representation. This office's community workshops and outreach to educate residents about the justice system and its services enhance this figure.

View Profile
(831) 454-5300
Closed Now
315 Main St Suite 204, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA

Santa Cruz Crime Statistics

Crimes reported to the Santa Cruz Police Department, 2025 (latest FBI data)

The Santa Cruz Police Department recorded 333 violent crimes in 2025 — down 13% from 382 in 2024. That is 533 per 100,000 residents — compared with 435 across California and 329 nationally, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. Police cleared (solved) 54% of violent crimes and 13% of property crimes.

Violent crimes
333▼ 13%382 in 2024
Property crimes
1,580▼ 1%1,601 in 2024
Violent crime rate
533per 100,000 · CA 435
Arrests
2,991▲ 9%2,754 in 2024
Property crime rate
2,529 per 100,000 (CA 1,821)
Most common arrests
Drug possession 472 · Disorderly conduct 451 · Simple assault 302
Weapons arrests
44
Drug arrests
502
DUI arrests
134

Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer, Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, 2025 data as reported by the Santa Cruz Police Department, compiled by TrustAnalytica. Counts crimes reported to police; many crimes are never reported.

Santa Cruz Criminal Lawyers stats: 21 businesses compared side by side · updated
# Business Rating Reviews Starting price Phone Website
1 DUI Attorney Rick Gazipura Santa Cruz 5.0 34 $150 (831) 226-1398 Visit
2 The Law Office of Leila Vaez-Iravani 5.0 23 $300 (408) 656-1919 Visit
3 Law Offices of Andrew C. Janecki 4.8 23 $300 (831) 459-0427 Visit
4 Law Office of Cherish Om - Criminal Defense & Family Lawyer 5.0 15 $200 (831) 281-4964 Visit
5 The Nieves Law Firm: San Jose Criminal Defense Attorneys 4.8 5 $500 (408) 528-2695 Visit
6 The G Law Firm - Ghazal Sharif 5.0 142 $300 (925) 768-7718 Visit
7 Szeto-Wong Law 5.0 81 $1,000 (650) 425-6264 Visit
8 Law Offices of Aaron Lipton 4.9 43 $150 (831) 687-8711 Visit
9 Law Offices of Timothy D. Widman 5.0 29 $1,000 (408) 366-2801 Visit
10 Douglass Law Group 5.0 25 $300 (408) 577-3050 Visit
11 Law Office of Daniel Jensen, LLP 4.2 25 $100 — Visit
12 Hales & George, Inc. 4.8 18 $100 (408) 255-6292 Visit
13 Wade Litigation 4.7 17 $300 (888) 705-5059 Visit
14 C. Alex Naegele, A Professional Law Corporation 4.7 15 $100 (408) 883-8994 Visit
15 Watsonville Law Center 4.4 16 $40 (831) 722-2845 Visit
16 California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. (CRLA) 3.9 16 $20 (831) 724-2253 Visit
17 Law Offices of Richard J. Hess 4.5 8 $200 (408) 872-0252 Visit
18 Family Law Offices of Liliana S. Diaz, PC 5.0 6 $150 (831) 722-2444 Visit
19 James M Sullivan Law Offices 4.2 5 $500 (408) 395-3837 Visit
20 Coward and Geisick, LLP 5.0 4 — (408) 358-3773 Visit
21 Santa Cruz County Office of the Public Defender 5.0 2 — (831) 454-5300 Visit

Frequently asked questions

8 questions
How much do criminal lawyers in Santa Cruz typically charge?
Criminal lawyer fees vary widely. Many charge hourly rates, while some offer flat fees for specific cases. Free consultations are common to discuss potential costs.
How do I choose the best criminal lawyer in Santa Cruz?
Consider verified reviews, ratings, and whether the lawyer has claimed their profile. TrustAnalytica ranks based on these factors for a data-driven choice.
What questions should I ask a criminal lawyer before hiring?
Ask about their experience with similar cases, fee structure, potential outcomes, and communication style. Clarifying these can help in making an informed decision.
Do I need a criminal lawyer for a misdemeanor in California?
While not mandatory, hiring a criminal lawyer can help navigate legal complexities and potentially improve outcomes in misdemeanor cases.
What services do criminal lawyers provide?
Criminal lawyers handle defense for charges like DUI, theft, assault, and more. They offer legal advice, negotiate plea deals, and represent clients in court.
Are free consultations common with criminal lawyers in Santa Cruz?
Yes, many criminal lawyers offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and potential legal strategies.
How long does a criminal case take in California?
The duration varies based on case complexity, court schedules, and plea negotiations. Simple cases may resolve quickly, while others can take months or longer.
Is it necessary to hire a local criminal lawyer in Santa Cruz?
Hiring a local lawyer can be beneficial due to their familiarity with local courts and procedures, which may aid in case navigation.

General information, not legal advice — consult a licensed California attorney.

Our Methodology

Best 10 criminal law attorney list assembly and recognition by TrustAnalytica for Santa Cruz is based on online reputation backed by review sources as google reviews, TrustAnalytica reviews and more.

We choose the best companies in the location and rank them based on rating, quantity of reviews and verification (Claimed or unclaimed profile).

Rankings are frequently updated to reflect the latest reviews from trusted sources.

Profile verification is free and may improve ranking, as we prioritize accurate, up-to-date profiles that are actively maintained and regularly reviewed.

TrustAnalytica's procedure for listing criminal law attorney companies involves manual research, review and placement. Please note that some companies are placed here through their registration with our services as every company gets not only access to our Saas services but also a profile that gets listed. We evaluate businesses based on their online reputation, accessibility, online resources such as website and their fit for best 10 criminal law attorney category.

The Process

1

Business Verification

Verified criminal law attorney listings in Santa Cruz are based on robust online activity and Google reviews, ensuring credibility.

2

Business Details

Comprehensive criminal law attorney profiles offer vital details for informed decisions in Santa Cruz.

3

Reviews And Ratings

Real-time customer ratings guide our criminal law attorney rankings in Santa Cruz, reflecting genuine reputation.

4

SEO And Keywords

Our SEO strategy elevates the visibility of top criminal law attorney providers in Santa Cruz.

5

AI Search Visibility

Every criminal law attorney listing in Santa Cruz is published with structured data that AI search tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity and Google AI Overviews can read and cite.