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 three 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 Dismissed – Prison Avoided

Sarah Einhorn

My client was charged with one felony and five misdemeanors. He was looking at 16 months in state prison and multiple charges on his record. We set trial and prepared to fight the case. Ultimately, the District Attorney offered to drop everything except one misdemeanor. My client admitted the misdemeanor, avoiding a felony record and a state prison sentence.

Charge Expunged Early

Danielle Keller

My client was charged with a DUI with a high blood alcohol content. She is a nurse and her professional license was at stake. She was placed on probation, but wanted to appeal to the California Board of Registered Nursing to keep her license, which meant she needed to get off of probation and get her charge expunged. I filed a motion to end probation early and expunge the conviction. I attached proof of the following: she had completed all of her probation terms, attended AA meetings, was employed, had a Master’s Degree Diploma, attended counseling, tested clean, did community service and continuing education courses. I also submitted letters attesting to her good character. The judge terminated her probation early and expunged her conviction over the objection of the District Attorney, leaving her free to address her professional license and continue with her nursing career.

Felony Charges Dismissed

Joel Weinstein

Nineteen-year-old client was charged with felony drug possession, drug sales and forgery. I provided positive character evidence to the DA and negotiated a resolution that allowed the client to earn a dismissal of all charges after completing community service hours and attending Narcotics Anonymous meetings.

Client’s Positive Progress Earns Dismissal

Danielle Nygren

My teenaged client was facing a DUI charge. He had strong family support and structure and had already made great efforts toward rehabilitation. I filed a motion to dismiss the charge based on his post-arrest efforts and progress. The judge granted my motion and dismissed the case.

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.