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Criminal Defense Lawyer · Long Beach, CA/Updated June 13, 2026

The 9 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Long Beach, CA

Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer in Long Beach can make a significant difference in your case. This guide breaks down the best options available.

Editorially independent9 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceLaw Offices of David Chesley
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 9 Long Beach-metro criminal defense lawyer businesses evaluated, top 9 ranked by Vetted Score.

Facing criminal charges in Long Beach can be daunting. With the stakes high, securing a competent criminal defense lawyer is essential for navigating the legal system effectively.

In evaluating the top criminal defense lawyers in the area, we analyzed nine firms based on their ratings and client feedback. Our ranking reflects not only the quality of service but also the trustworthiness of each provider, as many have fewer than 50 reviews, indicating a developing reputation.

9criminal defense lawyers evaluated in Long Beach
4.92average rating across the field
326customer reviews analyzed

Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.

How much does criminal defense lawyer cost in Long Beach? See the price breakdown →

Our top picks

At a glance · three categories
★ Editor's Choice
96Score

Law Offices of David Chesley

★★★★★5.0(42 reviews)

With a perfect rating of 5 stars from 42 reviews, Law Offices of David Chesley is highly praised for its thorough approach to criminal defense.

Read full review
Best Value
95Score

Matthew G.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
94Score

West Coast Defense

★★★★★4.9(56 reviews)

West Coast Defense has an impressive rating of 4.9 stars from 56 reviews.

Read full review

All 9, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
96Score
5.0★★★★★
42Complex criminal defense cases
2
95Score
5.0★★★★★
42Affordable yet effective legal representation
3
West Coast Defense
West Coast Defense
Most Reviewed
94Score
4.9★★★★★
56DUI cases and aggressive defense
4
85Score
5.0★★★★★
35DUI defense
5
84Score
5.0★★★★★
34General criminal defense
6
82Score
4.8★★★★★
42General criminal law and representation
7
80Score
4.9★★★★★
28Reliable criminal defense
8
79Score
4.8★★★★★
35Client-focused representation
9
78Score
4.9★★★★★
12Basic criminal defense needs
Methodology

How we evaluated all 9 criminal defense lawyers.

We assessed each criminal defense lawyer based on their Vetted Score, which incorporates their star ratings and the volume of reviews. Our research included client testimonials and overall satisfaction with the legal services provided.

No business pays for placement in our rankings. We refresh our evaluations monthly to ensure that the information remains accurate and relevant, giving you the best possible guidance when making your choice.

The Vetted Score: six weighted factors

Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%

Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.

Full reviews

The rankings · in order
1
★ Editor's Choice

Law Offices of David Chesley

★★★★★5.0(42 reviews)
96Score

With a perfect rating of 5 stars from 42 reviews, Law Offices of David Chesley is highly praised for its thorough approach to criminal defense. Clients appreciate the personalized attention and professionalism. This firm excels in navigating complex cases. However, the thin review base means it is still establishing broader trust in the community.

Pros

  • Personalized attention
  • Thorough case handling
  • Strong client communication

Cons

  • Thin review base
  • Limited service area
Best forComplex criminal defense cases
Service areaLong Beach and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
2
Best Value

Matthew G. Kaestner Attorney--Criminal Law Specialist

★★★★★5.0(42 reviews)
95Score

Matthew G. Kaestner holds a solid 5-star rating from 42 reviews, with clients praising his extensive knowledge of criminal law and his strategic approach. He is known for providing excellent value for the quality of service. A downside is that his practice may be less known than others, which could affect initial trust from potential clients.

Pros

  • Extensive knowledge
  • Strategic defense planning
  • Affordable pricing

Cons

  • Less established reputation
  • Limited reviews
Best forAffordable yet effective legal representation
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
3
Most Reviewed

West Coast Defense

★★★★★4.9(56 reviews)
94Score

West Coast Defense has an impressive rating of 4.9 stars from 56 reviews. Clients commend their aggressive defense strategies and supportive staff. They are particularly well-regarded for DUI cases. However, with a slightly lower rating than the top two firms, some clients may question if they are the best option available.

Pros

  • Aggressive defense strategies
  • Supportive staff
  • Strong client testimonials

Cons

  • Slightly lower rating than top firms
  • Can be pricey
Best forDUI cases and aggressive defense
Service areaLong Beach and nearby areas
Typical pricing$200 to $600 per hour
4

Long Beach DUI Attorney

★★★★★5.0(35 reviews)
85Score

Long Beach DUI Attorney has a perfect 5-star rating from 35 reviews. Clients appreciate the firm’s dedication to achieving favorable outcomes in DUI cases. The attorney's experience and expertise shine through in client feedback. However, the limited number of reviews means that confidence in their service is still developing. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is dUI defense. It serves Long Beach, with $150 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited reviews and narrow focus on DUI.

Pros

  • Dedicated to DUI cases
  • Experienced attorney
  • Positive client feedback

Cons

  • Limited reviews
  • Narrow focus on DUI
Best forDUI defense
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$150 to $450 per hour
5

Frisco Law Offices

★★★★★5.0(34 reviews)
84Score

Frisco Law Offices holds a strong 5-star rating from 34 reviews. Clients often highlight their responsive communication and thorough case evaluations. While they are a solid choice for criminal defense, their relatively low review count suggests that they are still gaining traction in the community. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is general criminal defense. It serves Long Beach, with $100 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are low review count and less visibility.

Pros

  • Responsive communication
  • Thorough evaluations
  • Client-focused approach

Cons

  • Low review count
  • Less visibility
Best forGeneral criminal defense
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$100 to $400 per hour

Law Offices of Jerry Nicholson has a strong 4.8-star rating from 42 reviews. Clients appreciate the firm’s attentive service and expertise in various criminal matters. However, the competition is fierce, and some may find other firms have a stronger reputation in Long Beach. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is general criminal law and representation. It serves Long Beach, with $150 to $500 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are strong competition and mixed reviews on specific cases.

Pros

  • Attentive service
  • Experienced in multiple areas
  • Positive client experiences

Cons

  • Strong competition
  • Mixed reviews on specific cases
Best forGeneral criminal law and representation
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$150 to $500 per hour
7

Chudnovsky Law

★★★★★4.9(28 reviews)
80Score

Chudnovsky Law maintains a solid 4.9-star rating from 28 reviews. Clients praise their professionalism and thoroughness in handling cases. They are a good option for those seeking a reliable defense. However, the smaller review base might make potential clients hesitant to choose them over more established firms. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is reliable criminal defense. It serves Long Beach, with $200 to $500 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are smaller review base and less visibility compared to competitors.

Pros

  • Professionalism
  • Thorough case handling
  • Good client communication

Cons

  • Smaller review base
  • Less visibility compared to competitors
Best forReliable criminal defense
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
8

La Firma Ruiz

★★★★★4.8(35 reviews)
79Score

La Firma Ruiz has a commendable 4.8-star rating from 35 reviews. Clients appreciate their commitment to client needs and their effective representation. While they provide solid services, their review count is still low, which may lead some prospective clients to choose more reviewed options. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is client-focused representation. It serves Long Beach, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are low review count and still establishing reputation.

Pros

  • Client-focused approach
  • Effective representation
  • Positive feedback

Cons

  • Low review count
  • Still establishing reputation
Best forClient-focused representation
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
9

Long Beach Criminal Lawyer

★★★★★4.9(12 reviews)
78Score

Long Beach Criminal Lawyer has a solid 4.9-star rating from 12 reviews. Clients commend their knowledge and dedication. However, the limited number of reviews raises questions about the firm’s experience and performance in a wider range of cases. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is basic criminal defense needs. It serves Long Beach, with $100 to $300 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are very low review count and limited case exposure.

Pros

  • Knowledgeable attorney
  • Dedicated service

Cons

  • Very low review count
  • Limited case exposure
Best forBasic criminal defense needs
Service areaLong Beach
Typical pricing$100 to $300 per hour
Before you book

How to choose a criminal defense lawyer in Long Beach

Selecting a criminal defense lawyer involves balancing trust and cost. Here are key factors to consider when making your decision.

Review Ratings and Client Feedback

Look for lawyers with high ratings and substantial reviews. This reflects their ability to handle cases effectively and satisfy clients.

Consider Experience in Specific Cases

Choose a lawyer who specializes in the type of criminal case you are facing. Their expertise can significantly impact your defense.

Evaluate Fee Structures

Understand how each lawyer charges. Some may offer flat fees, while others bill hourly. Ensure their pricing aligns with your budget.

What it costs

What criminal defense lawyers cost in Long Beach

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Long Beach can vary widely based on experience and case complexity. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing tiers.

Basic Representation$1,500 to $3,000 for straightforward cases like misdemeanors.
Standard Criminal Defense$3,000 to $5,000 for more involved cases, such as DUI or theft.
Complex Cases$5,000 to $10,000 for serious charges, including felonies.
High-Profile Defense$10,000 and up for high-stakes cases requiring extensive resources and expertise.

Frequently asked questions

How much does hiring a criminal defense lawyer cost in Long Beach?

Rates can vary, but you might expect to pay between $150 to $500 per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of your case.

What should I look for in a criminal defense lawyer in Long Beach?

Look for a lawyer with a strong track record, positive reviews, and experience in handling cases similar to yours.

How often is this ranking updated?

We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.

Our verdict

For most Long Beach residents: <strong>Law Offices of David Chesley</strong>

The best overall choice is Law Offices of David Chesley, offering a perfect 5-star rating from 42 reviews. For those seeking great value, Matthew G. Kaestner Attorney--Criminal Law Specialist is equally rated at 5 stars with the same number of reviews. If you're willing to splurge, West Coast Defense provides a near-perfect 4.9-star rating and has 56 reviews backing its reputation.