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:

DMV Suspension Set Aside

Zachary Merliss

My client’s driver’s license was suspended based on an allegation of driving under the influence. I challenged the suspension at a DMV hearing and won, because the time of driving could not be established. My client’s driving privilege was reinstated.

Case Dismissed

Sarah Einhorn

My client faced a drug possession charge, failed to appear in court several times, and lost custody of her children based on her drug use. After losing her children, she got sober and stayed that way for almost two years, earning back her custody rights. When she returned to criminal court, I told the judge about her progress, detailing all the positive changes my client had made in her life since her arrest. I asked the judge to dismiss the case entirely, in the interests of justice. The judge agreed and all charges were dismissed.

Treatment Instead of Prison

Keegan Smith

My client was charged with felony assault with a firearm. She was a victim of domestic violence at the hands of one of the other parties and was a passenger when he took a gun to a fight. The DA wanted my client to spend almost three years in prison. I investigated the case fully, gathered positive information about my client, and negotiated intensely with the DA. After reviewing everything I provided, the DA agreed to accept a misdemeanor plea from my client and to allow her to serve her time in a residential treatment program, instead of in custody.

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.