Criminal Defense Lawyers
Founded by famed criminal defense attorney Johnnie Cochran, The Cochran Firm has a well-earned reputation as one of the nation’s most effective criminal defense law firms. Our defense attorneys are dedicated to helping people facing all types of criminal charges get fair treatment – and to taking every step necessary to protect the rights and freedoms of those we represent.
If you are in need of a criminal defense lawyer, please contact The Cochran Firm online or by calling 1-800-The-Firm today to be put in touch with an experienced attorney in your area.
Cases We Handle
The criminal defense attorneys at The Cochran Firm are equipped to handle all types of criminal charges, including those that may seem minor. It is important to remember that trying to navigate the criminal justice system on your own puts you at the mercy of prosecutors and judges who are often most concerned with getting a conviction. Our defense attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and have the resources and tenacity to help secure the best possible outcomes.
Our criminal defense lawyers are prepared to represent people charged with:
- Violent crimes
- Murder
- Drug-related crimes
- Marijuana violations
- White-collar crimes
- Computer crimes
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Extortion
We Can Help
If you are facing charges for these or any other criminal offense, our attorneys can take your case, fight for your rights, and help protect you against injustice and mistreatment.
How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers can Help
No criminal defense lawyer can promise you an acquittal or a favorable plea bargain; making such guarantees is unethical. However, the nature of the legal system is such that prosecuting attorneys often have enormous advantages over defendants. Many of those accused of crimes lack the resources to hire competent legal representation – and because district attorneys possess significant leverage over defendants, many defendants end up negotiating away their rights and signing onto plea bargains that will haunt them for years.
The Cochran Firm's criminal defense attorneys work to ensure clients receive a fair defense and that their rights are protected. We won’t be intimidated by the prosecution. We will investigate your case and find the flaws in the state’s theories, find witnesses and arrange expert testimony on your behalf, and do everything possible to achieve preferred outcomes.
Of course, the reality is that many criminal cases are handled outside the courtroom. Plea negotiations are where the skill of your defense attorney will truly come into play. The Cochran Firm’s criminal defense lawyers will be your champion in these negotiations and make sure your rights are defended and interests represented.
To schedule your free consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact us today. We represent people facing criminal charges throughout the United States.
The attorneys of The Cochran Firm have over 30 years of experience in criminal defense law. Our attorneys aggressively defend those clients charged with criminal offenses in Federal, State, Juvenile and Military courts. Attorneys with The Cochran Firm Criminal Defense Section have handled thousands of criminal cases with positive results in a wide range of criminal charges.
Successful representation of numerous high-profile clients, including Sean “Puffy” Combs, O.J. Simpson, Snoop Dogg, Michael Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Todd Bridges, Riddick Bowe, Jim Brown, and Latrell Sprewell.
If you or a loved one is in need of a criminal defense lawyer, contact The Cochran Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense Cases
When Should I Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney?
It's often beneficial to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as you find out you're under investigation or have been charged, and before you talk to the police or a prosecutor. The earliest stages of a case are often where the most damage is done, or the most opportunity is lost.
Early representation matters because your attorney can:
- Guide you on what you should or shouldn't say during questioning.
- Start collecting evidence and talking to witnesses while memories are still clear.
- Spot any constitutional problems, such as an illegal search, before it's too late.
If you are unsure whether your situation warrants hiring a lawyer, contact The Cochran Firm for a free consultation.
What Does A Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
A criminal defense lawyer helps people accused of crimes at every step, from the investigation to the trial or sentencing. They help ensure the prosecution follows the law and proves its case fairly. Defense attorneys review the charges, check police reports, evidence, and witness statements for any issues, and develop a defense plan tailored to the case. Criminal defense attorneys stand by their clients in court, during negotiations, and at trial if necessary.
What Are The Three Stages Of A Criminal Case?
Most criminal cases go through three main stages: pretrial, trial, and sentencing or post-trial. Decisions made early on can affect what choices you have later.
- Pretrial: Arrest, arraignment, bail, and the exchange of evidence between the defense and prosecution.
- Trial: Jury selection, opening statements, presentation of evidence, and closing arguments before the verdict.
- Sentencing and Post-Trial: If convicted, the court determines the appropriate sentence.
The Cochran Firm’s criminal defense attorneys guide clients through each stage of the process.
What Strategies Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Typically Employ In Court?
Criminal defense lawyers adjust their strategies based on the facts of the case and any weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. They might question how reliable the evidence is, challenge a witness’s credibility, or point out if investigators broke constitutional rules. Every case is different, so the approach will fit your situation.
Criminal defense attorneys can ask the court to exclude evidence obtained through illegal searches and question witnesses to uncover inconsistencies. They may also present an alibi, call expert witnesses, present alternative interpretations of the evidence, or argue for lesser charges or reduced sentences when appropriate.
To discuss the details of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney, contact The Cochran Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation.


