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:

Investigation Leads to Dismissal

Sarah Einhorn

My client was charged with domestic violence and minor drug charges. We refused to waive time and set the case for trial. We gathered evidence of two incidents in which my client was shown to be the victim of violence perpetrated by the alleged victim in our case. Our investigator was unable to locate the alleged victim, as was the DA. Based on our work, the case was dismissed before trial.

Not Guilty Verdict on Attempted Murder

Zachary Merliss

My client faced life in prison for attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon resulting in great bodily injury, and battery with serious bodily injury. The alleged victim and one eyewitness said that my client stabbed the alleged victim in the gut without provocation. My client protested his innocence from the beginning, claiming self-defense. We investigated and found other eyewitnesses who were closer to the scene than the DA’s eyewitness. They saw my client getting beaten with a metal form stake. My cross-examination of the alleged victim and the prosecution eyewitness revealed great inconsistencies with the physical evidence and with the eyewitnesses we found. Ultimately, in under 2 hours, the jury acquitted the client of all charges and he was released from jail after years of incarceration.

Charges Reduced-Client Released

Danielle Keller

My client faced felony burglary and theft charges in three different cases. A warrant had been outstanding for a long time. When my client turned herself in on the warrant, I was able to demonstrate to the DA that she had been rehabilitated since her arrests. Based on that, the DA resolved the case for misdemeanors with no additional jail time.

Strike Charge Dismissed

Joel Weinstein

Client had mental health issues and was on parole. He was charged with a serious felony that would count as a strike under the Three Strikes Law. The DA wanted him sentenced to four years in prison. At the preliminary hearing I cross-examined the police and parole officers extensively, and was able to demonstrate the weakness of the DA’s case. On the eve of trial, the DA agreed to dismiss the serious felony and release the client from jail in exchange for a plea to two misdemeanor charges.

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.