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 Conviction Avoided

Joel Weinstein

Client was charged with 10 felony counts. If convicted, she could have faced years in prison. I engaged in intense negotiations with the DA, pointing out the weaknesses in his case and providing him with evidence of the client’s progress in treatment. After full consideration of the information I presented to him, the DA agreed to allow the client to admit one misdemeanor, dismissing all of the felony counts. I was also able to convince the judge not to take the client into custody, by contesting the evidence of continued drug use presented to the court by the Probation Department.

Strike Offense Dismissed

Zachary Merliss

My client was charged with felony criminal threats, which is a strike under the Three-Strikes Law and carries the possibility of serving time in state prison. I fought the charge at a preliminary hearing and demonstrated that the accuser’s statements were not reliable. After the hearing, the DA dismissed the strike offense in exchange for a plea to a lesser charge.

Serious Felony Dismissed

Danielle Nygren

My juvenile client was charged with a serious felony that would count as a strike under the Three Strikes Law and would prevent him from joining the military. I gathered positive character evidence about my client and presented that to the DA. I pointed out the weaknesses in their case against my client. The DA dismissed the charge for insufficient evidence.

No Charges Filed

Amber Zehrung

My client was arrested for domestic violence when his wife called the police to remove him from the house. I put together a packet for the DA that included my client’s school enrollment, proof of employment, character letters, and his wife’s statement. After reviewing the packet, the DA declined to file 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.