Santa Clara County Bail Schedules

Attorney Reviewed by Jo-Anna Nieves, Esq. · August 20, 2026

Insights From Our Attorneys

One of the biggest misconceptions about criminal defense is that every case is headed for trial. In reality, a significant part of our job is evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence, understanding how different District Attorney's Offices approach particular offenses, and positioning our client for the best possible outcome.

Jo-Anna Nieves, Founding Attorney.

In serious felony cases, local courtroom experience matters. Knowing how judges manage evidentiary issues and how prosecutors in different counties evaluate violent offenses can influence litigation strategy from the earliest stages.

Jo-Anna Nieves, Founding Attorney.

250+

Reviews

★★★★★

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Author Bio

Written by

Jo-Anna Nieves

Jo-Anna Nieves is the Founder and Managing Attorney of The Nieves Law Firm, an Oakland criminal defense law firm she created in 2012. With more than 14 years of experience in criminal defense, she has zealously represented clients in a wide range of legal matters, including DUIs, domestic violence, expungement, federal crimes, juvenile law, motions to vacate, sex crimes, violent crimes, and other criminal charges. Jo-Anna has received numerous accolades for her work, including being named a Super Lawyer Rising Star the past 9 years, the #12 Fastest Growing Law Firm in the U.S. by Law Firm 500 in 2019, and one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S. by Inc 5000 in 2023 and 2024. LinkedIn | State Bar Association | Avvo | Google

Top-Rated Bay Area Criminal Lawyers

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It

We’ve helped hundreds of clients through the worst moments of their lives. Here is what a few of them had to say.

“

Jo-Anna is an amazing attorney that never fails to put her clients FIRST. She knows exactly what she’s doing and I have complete faith in her ability to win cases and/or get the best deal possible. She is very familiar with the process of filing restraining orders, DUI hearings and so much more. She is a fantastic attorney that gets the job DONE!

★★★★★

Ebony

The Nieves Law Firm is home to the best Criminal Defense lawyers I’ve ever met. Jo-Anna and her team are passionate and committed to getting the best results for their clients. If you find yourself in need of a lawyer, 10/10 would recommend.

★★★★★

Vianessa

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Jo-Anna Nieves took over my case and I immediately felt she was going to get favorable results. Jo-Anna worked hard to get updates on my previous hearings. Ms.Nieves clearly expressed to me the reality of my case. After serious negotiation in courtroom she was able to show the vindictiveness of the other client which in turn helped my case get dropped. I would highly recommend her. Thank you Ms. Jo-Anna Nieves!

★★★★★

Therese

In my line of work, I have come across several types of attorneys. Jo-Anna is by far the best lawyer I have encountered. Her team took the time to answer my questions, negotiate the best deal, and they made every effort to show that they actually cared about their clients. She and her team were professional and their office setup exceeded my expectations. There was an amazing view of downtown Oakland from her conference room, her staff provided coffee and tea when I arrived, and I was greeted with a smile every time. I would recommend her law firm and her legal team to anyone that finds themselves in a sticky situation. If you are looking for a lawyer who will treat you with respect but be firm and assertive about getting results then this is the best law firm to hire.

★★★★★

Lance

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She did everything to win my case. I am very satisfied with her. I will definitely recommend her.

★★★★★

Ching-Li

Jo-Anna is dedicated, smart, and compassionate person. Jo-Anna cares about her clients and is determined to provide them with the best legal services. Jo-Anna is dedicated to her clients, her firm, and she will provide sound legal representation.

★★★★★

Silky

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