The Cohen Defense Group is the premier criminal defense law firm in the Sierra, known for its elite legal team, community involvement, and client-centered advocacy.

Who We Are

Founded in 2017 by Alison and David Cohen, the Cohen Defense Group, Inc. has grown into the largest private criminal defense firm in the Sierra, with offices in Auburn, Roseville, Nevada City, and Truckee, California. Our team of attorneys includes two State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialists and has been recognized repeatedly by Super Lawyers Magazine, Sacramento Magazine, and Sactown Magazine for excellence in criminal defense.

Cohen Defense Group History

We began our legal careers in the 1990s at a well-established criminal defense practice in Auburn, California. When the owner retired in 2016, we took over the firm. Our dream of marshaling the best legal talents in California to create a five-star criminal defense team has now come to fruition in the Cohen Defense Group, Inc., and we couldn’t be prouder. With the overarching idea that “we are here to help,” every attorney at the Cohen Defense Group cares about their clients and genuinely wants to achieve the best possible outcome in every case. Experienced in everything from petty theft to homicide, our lawyers have the resources and know-how to help you and your loved ones navigate the criminal justice system with confidence and support.

Our Mission

We are committed to providing high-quality, client-centered legal representation. Our approach ensures that clients are informed and supported throughout every stage of the legal process. With a team of highly trained attorneys and the resources to investigate and fully litigate your case, we are here to help.

Our Practice Areas

We specialize in a range of criminal defense areas, including:

Our attorneys are equipped to handle complex cases at all phases of litigation: pre-trial, trial, post-conviction, and on appeal.

Meet Our Team

Our diverse team includes seasoned attorneys and emerging legal talents from top California law schools. We collaborate closely, sharing insights and strategies to provide the best defense for our clients.

Proven Results

Our attorneys have successfully defended clients in a wide range of cases—from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Some of our recent victories include:

Felony Charge Reduced

Joe Alexander

My client was charged in Truckee with felony assault with a deadly weapon. I presented evidence to the DA that showed my client acted in self-defense. I demonstrated that my client did not have a criminal history, had been steadily employed for a period of time, and had good standing in the Truckee community. After considering everything, the DA agreed to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor.

Drug Case Dismissed

Danielle Nygren

My client was charged with possession of misappropriated property and drug paraphernalia. I set the case for a jury trial and filed a motion to suppress evidence. The judge granted my motion, ruling that the police had violated my client’s 4th amendment rights by performing an illegal search. The case was dismissed.

Jail Time Avoided

Danielle Keller

My client was charged with felony evading the police and driving under the influence. He faced six months in custody. I gathered and provided positive information about my client to the DA. Based on that information, the DA agreed to resolve the case for a misdemeanor with no in-custody time.

False Identification Results in Dismissal

Sarah Einhorn

Police arrested an individual who falsely presented my client’s name and date of birth. My client was not at the scene of the crime and didn’t do anything wrong. I presented information to the District Attorney that demonstrated that my client was not the person arrested, including showing that my client’s signature on his driver’s license did not match the signature on the Notice to Appear. The District Attorney reviewed our presentation and agreed that my client was not the person arrested at the scene. They dismissed the case at the first court date. I am currently filing for a finding of factual innocence so that my client’s arrest record can be cleared.

More Results

What Clients Say About Us

We are proud of the trust our clients place in us—and even prouder when they share their experiences. Their words speak to our commitment, skill, and compassion.

Community Involvement & Sponsorships

At the Cohen Defense Group, Inc., we believe in giving back to the communities we serve. Our commitment is reflected in our active participation and sponsorship of local events and organizations.

We continually seek opportunities to contribute to community initiatives that align with our values.