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Compare Criminal Defense Lawyers in Santa Cruz, CA
Browse criminal defense lawyers serving Santa Cruz, California. Contact information and addresses listed below.
17 attorneys listed
Updated May 2026
Santa Cruz, CA
Important: Listings are compiled from publicly available sources and have not been independently verified by BeforeAttorney.com. We do not endorse any attorney or guarantee outcomes. Verify licensing and disciplinary status with the State Bar of California before hiring.
Showing 17 criminal defense lawyers in Santa Cruz, CA
Listings are displayed in no particular order and are not ranked by BeforeAttorney. Order does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement of any attorney.
Law Offices of Mehr & Soto, LLP
100 Doyle St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
(831) 425-5757 mehrlaw.com
Hamlyn & Guerrero
55 River St UNIT 240, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 420-3500 rymap.org
Law Offices of George J Gigarjian
108 Locust St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 429-1440 georgeglaw.com
DUI Attorney Rick Gazipura Santa Cruz
101 Cooper St #309, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 226-1398 duisantacruz.org
Law Offices of Andrew C. Janecki
1517 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 459-0427 santacruz-criminaldefense.com
Law Office of Cherish Om - Criminal Defense & Family Lawyer
101 Cooper St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 281-4964 cherishomlawoffice.com
Santa Cruz DUI Lawyer The Crawford Law Firm, Inc.
1414 Soquel Ave #224, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
(831) 204-0773 crawfordlawsantacruz.com
John W. Thornton, Attorney at Law
303 Potrero St Suite 30, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 426-5800 duisantacruz.com
Law Office of Jeffrey C. Stotter
55 River St UNIT 220, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 435-4384 stotterlaw.com
Mark A. Garver Attorney at Law
765 Cedar St # 201, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 222-6243 santacruzcriminaldefense.net
Zach D. Schwarzbach, Attorney at Law, Inc.
765 Cedar St Ste 201, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 440-8984 831law.com
Sal Gallardo
303 Potrero St Suite 30, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 566-4016 sgdefense.com
Jamyrson Law Firm APC
200 Washington St #211, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 854-7529
Paul B Meltzer Law Offices
740 Front St UNIT 325, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 426-6000
Santa Cruz Criminal Defense
1517 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 459-0427 santacruz-criminaldefense.com
Surf City Criminal Defense
331 Soquel Ave #201, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 535-2363 surfcitydui.com
The McGuire Law Office
303 Water St #140, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(408) 828-3319 christinemcguirelaw.com
If you face criminal charges in Santa Cruz County, a criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the California court system. Santa Cruz has a Superior Court that handles felony and misdemeanor cases under the California Penal Code. Local attorneys understand the procedures at the Santa Cruz County Superior Court and can explain your options.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Santa Cruz Cost?
The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in California varies widely. For a simple misdemeanor, fees may range from 1,500 to 5,000 dollars. For a felony case, fees can start at 5,000 dollars and go up to 25,000 dollars or more depending on complexity. Some lawyers offer flat fees for specific charges like DUI. Payment plans are sometimes available. This is general information and not legal advice.
* Cost estimates are general ranges based on publicly available data and compiled using automated research tools. Actual fees vary by attorney and case complexity. This is not legal advice — consult directly with an attorney for fee specifics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cases does a Santa Cruz criminal defense lawyer handle?
A criminal defense lawyer in Santa Cruz handles cases such as DUI, drug possession, theft, assault, and domestic violence. These cases fall under California state laws like Vehicle Code 23152 for DUI or Health and Safety Code 11350 for drug possession. The lawyer can also handle federal charges if they occur in the area.
How long do I have to hire a lawyer after an arrest in California?
You should hire a lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest. In California, you have the right to an attorney at your first court appearance, which usually happens within 48 hours of arrest. A lawyer can also help with bail hearings and early case review.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in California?
In California, a felony is a serious crime punishable by more than one year in state prison. A misdemeanor is less serious and carries a maximum jail sentence of up to one year. Your lawyer can explain how the charges affect your case and potential penalties.
Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Contact this list of lawyers to find the right fit for your situation.
About Our Listings
Attorneys listed on BeforeAttorney.com are compiled from publicly available directories, state bar records, and business listings. Inclusion does not constitute endorsement. We do not verify attorney licensing, disciplinary status, or qualifications. Verify each attorney's current standing with the State Bar of California.