Lawyers in Contra Costa County, California

Lawyer Legion Information Center of Contra Costa County, CA

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Best Attorneys in Contra Costa County, California
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Contra Costa County, CA Legal Resources
Attorney Licensing in California
California Bar Associations and Legal Organizations
California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS)
Lawyer Referral Services in Contra Costa County, CA
Contra Costa County Government and Court Resources

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The following list was determined using multiple factors including both objective and subjective criteria. Lawyers were selected based on their career accomplishments, high-profile and famous cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications. This list represents some of the most highly accomplished lawyers currently practicing in Contra Costa County and throughout California, including criminal law, civil law, personal injury law and family law

When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
It is impossible to accurately determine a countywide list of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing law.
It is difficult to compare lawyers who practice in different areas of the law.

Andrew Charles Schwartz
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Kevin Patrick Urbatsch
Estate and Probate Law and Elder Lawyer
Pleasant Hill, CA
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Glicel E Sumagaysay
Employment Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Arlene D. Kock
Child Custody / Visitation and Family Lawyer
San Ramon, CA
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Thomas George Appel
Workers Compensation Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Michael D. Goforth
Workplace Injuries and Personal Injury Lawyer
Concord, CA
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Christopher Light
Personal Injury and Brain Injury Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Adam Michael Carlson
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Thomas Martin O'Connor
Personal Injury Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Mary Catherine Whipple
Family Lawyer
San Ramon, CA
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Nicholas Casper
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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Larry E. Cook
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawyer
Walnut Creek, CA
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More Noteworthy California Attorneys

Contra Costa County, CA Legal Resources

Attorney Licensing in California
California Bar Associations and Legal Organizations
Contra Costa County Bar Associations and Legal Organizations
California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS)
Contra Costa County Government and Court Resources

Attorney Licensing in California

The State Bar of California - The State Bar of California enforces the bar rules that govern professional conduct. Approved by the California Supreme Court, the bar rules are binding upon all lawyers licensed to practice in California. One of the first states to unify its bar and make it mandatory, California requires all attorneys licensed to practice law must belong to the State Bar of California, sometimes called the "California Bar Association."

California Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

CLA - California Lawyers Association - The California Lawyers Association (CLA) is a nonprofit, voluntary organization that acts as the home for the Sections of the State Bar of California and the California Young Lawyers Association. As an organization independent from the State Bar of California, the California Lawyers Association (CLA) is focused on the professional advancement of attorneys practicing in the state of California. The CLA is a powerful network of 100,000 members.

CAOC - Consumer Attorneys of California - The CAOC is a nonprofit professional association for attorneys who focus on personal injury, wrongful death, and product safety. Founded in 1961, the Consumer Attorneys of California is an organization that provides resources and education to lawyers practicing in civil courts throughout California. The CAOC is also an advocacy organization that opposes legislation that would limit access to the civil courts.

CACJ - California Attorneys for Criminal Justice - The California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ) was formed in 1973 and is the country's largest statewide organization of criminal defense lawyers . The CACJ works to defend the rights and due process of the accused while providing quality continuing legal education to its members. Since strengthening its presence in the California State Capitol, CACJ provides the criminal defense bar with a more unified voice on legislative matters.

ACAL - Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers - The ACAL is an invitation-only society of family formation law attorneys who are licensed to practice law in California and have demonstrated extensive experience in adoption law and assisted reproduction (ART) cases. Members of the Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers practice with the highest standards of ethics and professional competence in this area of law.

ABTL - Association of Business Trial Lawyers - The ABTL is a nonprofit professional organization of lawyers practicing in the areas of business law and commercial litigation across California. The mission of the ABTL is to promote competence, excellence and professionalism within this area of practice. The Association of Business Trial Lawyers has five chapters across the state in Los Angeles, Northern California, San Diego, Orange County and the San Joaquin Valley.

CAAA - California Applicants’ Attorneys Association - The CAAA is a nonprofit professional association that serves California's injured workers and the attorneys who represent them in workers' compensation cases. The California Applicants' Attorneys Association's goals are to provide fair compensation benefits to injured workers and their families. The organization also advocates for gender equality, immigrant rights, and government accountability in workers' compensation cases.

CLA - California Lawyers for the Arts - The CLA is a professional association of lawyers who represent artists with intellectual property law, business law and contracts. Founded in 1974, the California Lawyers for the Arts provides resources and education to attorneys while advocating for the best interest of the artistic community. The organization assists the public with mediation services and referrals to attorneys while advocating for the best interests of artists and innovators.

CDLA - California DUI Lawyers Association - The California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) was founded in 1989. Attorneys in the CDLA promote the rights of the accused to encourage a fair criminal justice system with a focus on DUI charges. The CDLA uses its influence to advocate for legislative changes in the criminal justice system. The California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) is an affiliate of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and the DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA).

ACFLS - Association of Certified Family Law Specialists - The ACFLS is an independent nonprofit organization of lawyers who have earned board certification as a family law specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. The organization is dedicated to preserving and improving the practice of family law while promoting board certification for the specialty area of family law and family relations law. The ACFLS is made up of some of the best family law attorneys practicing in the state of California.

CELA - California Employment Lawyers Association - The CELA is a nonprofit association of lawyers representing plaintiffs in employment law cases against their employers. Many of California's top employment law attorneys are members. The California Employment Lawyers Association (CELA) is an affiliate of the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA). The organization provides education and resources to practicing attorneys while advocating for labor issues that are in the interest of workers across California.

Contra Costa County Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

Contra Costa County Bar Association - The Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) is a distinguished organization serving the legal community and residents of Contra Costa County, California. The CCCBA provides its members with access to CLE programs, networking events, and leadership opportunities to support professional growth. The association is deeply committed to public service, offering pro bono assistance, legal referral services, and educational initiatives to promote access to justice. By fostering ethical legal practices and collaboration, the CCCBA enhances the legal profession while contributing to the community’s well-being.

Lawyer Referral Services in Contra Costa County, CA

Contra Costa County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service (LRIS) in Northern California - The Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) for the Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) is a non-profit organization. It helps individuals and businesses find an attorney in a variety of practice areas such as criminal defense, personal injury, immigration, family law, and bankruptcy. The LRIS provides referrals to attorneys in Northern California including the San Francisco Bay Area, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Richmond, and Pittsburg, California. The program serves both Contra Costa County and east Alameda County.

California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS)

Board Certified lawyers in Contra Costa County, California - Use our directory to find a list of specialist attorneys in Contra Costa, California who are board-certified by the California Board of Legal Specialization.

California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS) - The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS) includes eleven areas of specialization certified directly by the State Bar of California with an additional eleven areas certified by five different national organizations that have been accredited by the American Bar Association. One of the goals of the CBLS is to give consumers another tool to use in selecting an attorney. The Standards for Certification in each specialty area was adopted by the Board of Governors.

Specialty Areas

Admiralty and Maritime Law - Admiralty and Maritime Law is the practice of law dealing with substantive and procedural aspects of the law that governs vessels, navigation, and shipping. The term "admiralty and maritime law" also includes personal injury claims, marine pollutions, and much more. Attorneys in California who are board-certified specialists have demonstrated dedication and experience in the field of Admiralty and Maritime Law.

Appellate Law - Attorneys who are board certified in Appellate Law by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization have demonstrated significant knowledge and experience in the areas of civil and criminal appeals. Lawyers represent people throughout the appellate law process in both state and federal appellate courts, including the California Court of Appeals, the Federal Court of Appeals, the California Supreme Court, or the United States Supreme Court.

Bankruptcy Law - Bankruptcy Law is under the jurisdiction of the federal government, and bankruptcy matters are heard in federal court. There are both national and state-specific certifications. In California, the board certification for bankruptcy law is awarded by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). The bankruptcy attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in the practice of bankruptcy law to earn the board-certified specialist distinction.

Criminal Law - In California, attorneys can become certified as a Criminal Law Specialist by the State Bar of California's Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). Board-certified attorneys include criminal defense attorneys in private practice, public defenders, or prosecutors. These attorneys work within the criminal justice system at the local, state, or federal level.

Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law - For California's Board Certification program the term "estate planning, trust, and probate law" is the practice of law that includes multiple areas, for instance, creating a will or trust, and protecting assets. A trust and estate attorney who applies for board certification in California must demonstrate that within the specified period he or she has been substantially involved in the practice of estate planning, trust, and probate law. Furthermore, an attorney who is a certified specialist has demonstrated proficiency in this specialized field of law.

Family Law - Only attorneys board certified in family law can advertise or identify themselves as "certified specialists" or "board certified" in California for that field. Furthermore, the board certification for family law is awarded by the CBLS. A certified family law specialist has experience performing various types of legal matters (e.g., marital settlement agreements, legal separation dissolution, etc.)

Franchise and Distribution Law - An attorney who is a franchise and distribution law specialist assists their clients with the operation of their franchise, general business issues, and problems that come up when looking to buy or sell a franchise. Furthermore, a board-certified specialist lawyer has met the rigorous requirements of the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS), such as passing the legal specialist examination, demonstrate substantial involvement, and complete continuing education requirements.

Immigration Law - An immigration specialist is an attorney who has been board certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). He or she has demonstrated substantial involvement in the practice of immigration law. The immigration system is extraordinarily complex with many difficult issues, therefore, it is important that an attorney has an understanding of it. Immigration Specialists have met the rigorous application requirements by passing exams, demonstrating experience, and participating in the field amongst other requirements.

Legal Malpractice - Legal malpractice lawyers represent the clients in lawsuits against their former attorneys. In the state of California, an attorney can become specialized in the field of Legal Malpractice. The board certification for legal malpractice law is awarded by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). An attorney seeking certification in legal malpractice must demonstrate that during the specified time period he or she has been substantially involved in the practice area.

Taxation Law - Board certification attorneys are highly qualified attorneys who have met many requirements such as passing the legal specialist examination, demonstrate substantial involvement, and completed continuing education. Tax laws are changing every year, a specialist must understand the changes that are made to any regulations. A tax specialist is required to demonstrate involvement in the practice of taxation law and this can include handling individual income tax, real estate income tax, and/or corporate income tax.

Workers' Compensation Law - Worker’s compensation is a system designed to manage workplace injuries. Attorneys that focus on workers' compensation law involves employees' rights, employers' defenses, and benefits provided for workplace accidents. Workers' compensation law includes activities before the state administrative agencies that regulate workers' compensation claims, as well as jury trials and appellate practice. An attorney seeking board certification in Worker's Compensation Law must demonstrate that within the applicable time period the attorney has substantially involved in the specialty practice area of the law.

Contra Costa County Government and Court Resources

Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office
Contra Costa County Government Website
Contra Costa County Public Defender's Office
Contra Costa County Superior Court
Federal Courts in Contra Costa County, CA

Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office

Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office - The Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office in California is committed to protecting public safety and upholding justice. Prosecuting cases ranging from minor infractions to severe felonies, the office also advocates for the rights of crime victims and provides resources to support them. Through partnerships with community organizations and law enforcement, the office strives to reduce crime and improve quality of life. Dedicated to integrity and fairness, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office serves as a vital resource for justice and safety.

Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office
900 Ward Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: 925-957-2200

Contra Costa County Government Website

Contra Costa County Government Website - The Contra Costa County Government website is a vital platform for residents in California, providing access to a wide range of public services and resources. Visitors can find information on health programs, transportation updates, and community initiatives. The site allows residents to pay taxes, apply for permits, and connect with local government offices. Designed to enhance transparency and accessibility, the Contra Costa County Government website keeps residents informed about county projects, legislative actions, and public safety updates. With its focus on community engagement, the site is a valuable tool for navigating county services.

Contra Costa County Government Website
1025 Escobar Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: 925-655-2000

Contra Costa County Public Defender's Office

Contra Costa County Public Defender's Office - The Contra Costa County Public Defender's Office provides free legal representation to individuals in California who cannot afford private counsel. Handling cases across a broad spectrum, including misdemeanors, felonies, and juvenile defense, the office ensures fair treatment for its clients. Beyond courtroom advocacy, the Public Defender’s Office engages with the community to promote awareness of legal rights and resources. Committed to justice and equity, the Contra Costa County Public Defender’s Office plays a vital role in upholding the principles of fairness and due process.

Contra Costa County Public Defender's Office
800 Ferry Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: 925-335-8000

Contra Costa County Superior Court

Contra Costa County Superior Court - The Contra Costa County Superior Court, located in Martinez, California, is a vital judicial institution serving the county’s residents. This court handles a broad range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. With its focus on accessibility, the court offers online resources such as case searches, e-filing, and payment portals. The Contra Costa County Superior Court is dedicated to upholding justice, ensuring timely resolutions, and fostering public trust in the legal process. Through its commitment to excellence, the court plays a pivotal role in maintaining the rule of law in Contra Costa County.

Contra Costa County Superior Court
725 Court Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: 925-608-1000

Federal Courts in Contra Costa County, CA

United States District Court - Northern District of California - On September 28, 1850, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California was established. The court obtained its first courthouse five years later. Before the establishment of the United District Courts for the Eastern and Central Districts of California, the court had influence in the Central Valley and the eastern mountainous regions of the state. Currently, the court encompasses fifteen (15) counties, it has four (4) courthouses, fourteen (14) district judgeships, and twelve (12) magistrate judgeships.