Santa Cruz County Criminal Defense Lawyers
You’re not just dealing with a criminal accusation — you’re facing the threat of jail time, a permanent record, and damage to your job, your family, and your future. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, your next move matters. The prosecution is already building a case against you — now’s the time to put a defense team in your corner.
A criminal charge in Santa Cruz doesn’t have to define your future, but what you do next will. At The Nieves Law Firm, we don’t just show up to court. We step in early, build leverage, and push for results that protect your freedom, your reputation, and your record.
Our team is known statewide for defending people against serious criminal accusations, and we bring that same bold, strategic energy to every case in Santa Cruz County. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor, a felony, or you’re being investigated, we treat your case like what it is: the most important fight of your life.
Criminal Defense Services in Santa Cruz County, CA
Our Santa Cruz County criminal defense attorneys handle a wide range of cases, including:
DUI Defense in Santa Cruz County
Facing DUI charges in Santa Cruz County can be overwhelming. With potential license suspension, hefty fines, and even jail time on the line, you need a defense attorney who understands California’s complex DUI laws. Our DUI lawyers work to challenge evidence, question testing procedures, and pursue every avenue to protect your driving privileges and freedom.
Domestic Violence Cases in Santa Cruz County
Domestic violence allegations in Santa Cruz County can immediately disrupt your life, often resulting in restraining orders and potential criminal charges. Our attorneys provide compassionate yet powerful representation, working to ensure your side of the story is heard while building a strategic defense against these serious accusations.
Drug Charges in Santa Cruz County
From possession to distribution, drug charges in Santa Cruz County carry serious consequences. Our defense team stays current with California’s evolving drug laws and works to challenge searches, question evidence handling, and pursue favorable outcomes like diversion programs when possible.
Theft & Property Crimes in Santa Cruz County
Theft accusations in Santa Cruz County can damage your reputation and lead to serious penalties. Whether you’re facing shoplifting, burglary, or fraud charges, our attorneys work to protect your rights while developing defenses that challenge the prosecution’s case.
Sex Crimes Defense in Santa Cruz County
Few charges carry more severe consequences than sex crimes allegations in Santa Cruz County. These cases demand a defender who will thoroughly investigate every detail while providing discreet, judgment-free representation. We handle these sensitive matters with the seriousness they deserve.
Assault & Violent Crime Defense in Santa Cruz County
Accusations of assault or violent crimes in Santa Cruz County require immediate legal intervention. Our defense attorneys work to investigate the circumstances, identify self-defense claims, and challenge witness credibility to protect your rights and freedom.
Gun & Weapon Charges in Santa Cruz County
California’s strict weapons laws mean Santa Cruz County residents facing firearms charges need knowledgeable defense. Our attorneys understand these complex regulations and build strategic defenses aimed at protecting your rights and freedom.
Juvenile Crime Defense in Santa Cruz County
When your child faces criminal allegations in Santa Cruz County, their future hangs in the balance. Our juvenile defense attorneys understand the unique nature of the juvenile justice system and work to protect your child’s rights while pursuing outcomes that prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.
Post-Conviction Services in Santa Cruz County
Being convicted doesn’t mean your fight is over. Our Santa Cruz County attorneys offer comprehensive post-conviction services, including:
Expungements in Santa Cruz County
A criminal record can hold you back from jobs, housing, and opportunities in Santa Cruz County. Our expungement attorneys help eligible clients clear their records to move forward without the burden of past mistakes.
Record Sealing in Santa Cruz County
For Santa Cruz County residents with eligible records, sealing your criminal history can open doors previously closed due to background checks. Our attorneys guide you through this process to help protect your future opportunities.
Probation Violations in Santa Cruz County
Facing alleged probation violations in Santa Cruz County can lead to severe consequences. Our attorneys provide strong representation to help you address these allegations and avoid additional penalties.
Why Santa Cruz County Residents Choose The Nieves Law Firm
When Santa Cruz County residents need criminal defense, they turn to The Nieves Law Firm because:
- We’re ready to win – Our team approaches every case prepared for victory, not just settlements
- We’re client-focused – We take time to learn about your goals and build defense strategies aligned with your priorities
- We’re results-driven – Our track record shows our commitment to favorable outcomes for our clients
- We’re technology-driven – We leverage modern tools and approaches for more effective defense strategies
- We offer Spanish-speaking services – Our bilingual team ensures nothing gets lost in translation
Santa Cruz County Courts We Serve
Our attorneys are familiar with local courts serving the Santa Cruz County area, including:
- 701 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- 1 Second Street, Watsonville, CA 95076
- 3650 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018
About Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County is located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay and is known for its beautiful beaches, redwood forests, and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. With a population of approximately 270,000, Santa Cruz County residents face unique challenges when dealing with California’s criminal justice system.
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Santa Cruz Police Department, Watsonville Police Department, and Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Department, actively enforce California’s criminal laws, making skilled legal representation essential for those facing charges.
- Capitola
- Santa Cruz (county seat)
- Scotts Valley
- Watsonville
- 95003
- 95005
- 95006
- 95007
- 95010
- 95017
- 95018
- 95019
- 95033
- 95041
- 95060
- 95061
- 95062
- 95063
- 95064
- 95065
- 95066
- 95067
- 95073
- 95076
Arrested in Santa Cruz County? Don’t Wait to Get Defense
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Santa Cruz County, time is critical. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and legal deadlines approach quickly. The sooner you contact our Santa Cruz County criminal defense team, the sooner we can start building your defense.
Contact Our Santa Cruz County Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
Don’t face criminal charges in Santa Cruz County without powerful representation. The Nieves Law Firm offers free case evaluations to help you understand your options and develop a strategy for moving forward.
Contact us today or fill out our online form to schedule your confidential consultation.
The Nieves Law Firm serves clients throughout Santa Cruz County and surrounding areas, including Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola, and Scotts Valley.
