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.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.