Paso Robles Embezzlement Attorney

57+ Years of Combined Experience

Facing Embezzlement Charges in Paso Robles? Here's What You Need to Know

When you’re facing embezzlement charges in Paso Robles, you’re confronting accusations that can destroy your professional reputation, end your career in wine country’s hospitality and business community, and result in years in state prison plus massive restitution payments that can bankrupt you and your family. At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we defend clients charged with embezzlement throughout Paso Robles—from employee theft allegations at wineries and tasting rooms, to bookkeeper and accountant cases involving business clients, to financial misconduct charges at restaurants and hotels, to nonprofit misappropriation allegations in this close-knit community.

Whether you’re accused of embezzling from your employer, charged with misappropriating client funds, or facing allegations of financial elder abuse, we handle all embezzlement cases in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 for a free consultation—available 24/7 for urgent situations.

Defending Embezzlement Cases at Paso Robles Courthouse

San Luis Obispo County Superior Court – North County Branch
1050 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

All embezzlement cases from Paso Robles are prosecuted by the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office and heard at the San Luis Obispo courthouse. We appear regularly in all criminal departments, know the judges who will decide your case, understand how local prosecutors evaluate white-collar crime allegations, and know which defense strategies work in San Luis Obispo County. North County defendants—including those from Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero—have their cases heard at this location. Embezzlement cases often involve complex financial records, accounting disputes, and civil issues that prosecutors incorrectly characterize as criminal conduct.

Understanding Embezzlement Charges in California

Embezzlement under Penal Code 503 is the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone to whom it has been entrusted. Unlike theft where you take property you never had permission to possess, embezzlement involves taking property you had lawful possession of but no ownership rights to. The classic example is an employee with access to company funds who transfers money to personal accounts, but embezzlement encompasses many scenarios—bookkeepers who manipulate accounting records, executives who misuse corporate funds, nonprofit treasurers who divert donations, financial advisors who misappropriate client investments, and caregivers who exploit elderly victims’ finances.

Embezzlement is a “wobbler” offense that prosecutors can charge as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount allegedly embezzled and your criminal history. If the amount is $950 or less, it’s typically charged as misdemeanor petty theft embezzlement with maximum penalties of 6 months jail and $1,000 fine. If the amount exceeds $950, it can be charged as felony grand theft embezzlement with penalties of 16 months to 3 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000. When amounts exceed $65,000, embezzlement becomes “aggravated white collar crime” under Penal Code 186.11 with enhanced sentences including additional years in prison.

In Paso Robles, embezzlement charges commonly arise from wine industry employment—tasting room employees accused of skimming cash sales or underreporting wine club charges, vineyard managers alleged to have diverted equipment purchases for personal use, winery bookkeepers charged with manipulating financial records to conceal theft; hospitality and restaurant cases—hotel managers accused of misappropriating guest payments, restaurant bookkeepers charged with payroll fraud or vendor payment schemes; professional services—real estate agents alleged to have misused client funds from escrow accounts, attorneys charged with misappropriating client trust funds, financial advisors accused of diverting client investments; and elder financial abuse—caregivers charged with exploiting elderly Paso Robles residents’ bank accounts, family members accused of misappropriating inheritance or estate funds.

Paso Robles Business Context: Embezzlement allegations in Paso Robles often arise from business disputes, accounting errors, or civil disagreements that employers or business partners incorrectly report as criminal theft. Many wine country businesses operate with informal accounting practices—cash handling without detailed documentation, commingled business and personal expenses, verbal agreements about compensation or expense reimbursement. When business relationships sour, employers sometimes characterize legitimate compensation disputes, expense reimbursements, or accounting discrepancies as embezzlement. We’ve represented numerous clients falsely accused when what really occurred was a business dispute, not criminal conduct. If you’ve been accused of embezzlement by an employer or business partner, call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately—early investigation can uncover documentation proving these were civil disputes, not crimes.

Types of Embezzlement and White-Collar Charges We Defend

We handle all embezzlement and related white-collar crime charges in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo County:

Embezzlement (PC 503) – Fraudulent appropriation of property entrusted to you; wobbler with 16 months to 3 years prison if charged as felony, or up to 1 year jail if misdemeanor
Grand Theft by Embezzlement (PC 487) – Embezzling property exceeding $950 in value; wobbler with same sentencing range as PC 503
Aggravated White Collar Crime (PC 186.11) – Embezzlement or fraud involving $65,000-$200,000 adds 1 year prison; $200,000-$1.3 million adds 2 years; $1.3 million-$3.2 million adds 3 years; over $3.2 million adds 4 years
Elder Financial Abuse (PC 368) – Taking, appropriating, or retaining property of person 65+ through fraud or undue influence; wobbler with enhanced penalties including additional 2-4 years prison
Employee Theft (PC 484/487) – Employees stealing from employers through various schemes; wobbler with penalties based on amount stolen
Fraud (PC 532) – Obtaining money or property through false pretenses or fraudulent representations; wobbler with up to 3 years prison
Forgery (PC 470) – Forging checks, signatures, or documents to misappropriate funds; wobbler with up to 3 years prison
False Accounting (PC 424) – Public officials or employees falsifying accounts or records; felony with 2-4 years prison
Misappropriation by Fiduciary (PC 506) – Trustees, executors, administrators, or conservators misappropriating entrusted property; wobbler
Misappropriation by Attorney (Business & Professions Code 6106) – Attorneys misusing client trust funds; can result in disbarment plus criminal prosecution
Credit Card Fraud (PC 484e-484j) – Using employer or client credit cards for unauthorized personal expenses
Insurance Fraud (PC 550) – Submitting false insurance claims or inflating legitimate claims
Tax Evasion and Fraud – Failing to report embezzled funds as income, or using embezzled funds to evade taxes; can be prosecuted federally

Restitution Can Exceed Criminal Penalties: Even if you avoid prison or receive probation for embezzlement charges, courts will order full restitution to victims for all losses—including the principal amount allegedly embezzled, interest on those amounts, investigative costs, attorney fees, and other losses. Restitution orders in embezzlement cases often reach tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, creating financial obligations lasting decades. These orders survive bankruptcy and can be enforced through wage garnishment, property liens, and asset seizures. Negotiating realistic restitution amounts is as important as negotiating criminal penalties. We work with forensic accountants to challenge inflated loss calculations and negotiate reasonable restitution that doesn’t bankrupt you. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 if you’re facing embezzlement charges with large restitution demands.

Consequences of Embezzlement Convictions

Embezzlement convictions create devastating criminal penalties and permanent collateral consequences affecting professional licensing, employment, reputation, and financial stability. Understanding what you face helps you make informed decisions about your defense.

Criminal and Financial Penalties

Prison or Jail Time – Misdemeanors: up to 1 year county jail; felonies: 16 months to 3 years state prison (longer with aggravated white collar enhancements for large amounts)
Substantial Fines – Up to $1,000 for misdemeanors, $10,000 for felonies, plus court fees and investigation costs
Full Restitution – Court-ordered repayment of all losses including principal, interest, investigative costs, attorney fees—often totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars; restitution orders are enforceable for decades and survive bankruptcy
Asset Forfeiture – Prosecutors can seize property purchased with embezzled funds including homes, vehicles, bank accounts, and investments
Probation Conditions – Formal probation with strict financial reporting requirements, search conditions, restitution payment plans, and employment restrictions

Professional and Personal Destruction

Professional License Revocation – Embezzlement is a crime of moral turpitude resulting in mandatory suspension or revocation for attorneys, CPAs, real estate agents, financial advisors, insurance agents, nurses, contractors, and other licensed professionals
Career Destruction – Embezzlement convictions end careers in finance, accounting, bookkeeping, management, hospitality, and any position involving money handling or fiduciary responsibility
Wine Industry Exclusion – Background checks eliminate employment opportunities throughout Paso Robles wine industry—tasting rooms, hospitality, management, bookkeeping, wine club administration
Immigration Consequences – Embezzlement is a crime of moral turpitude that can trigger deportation, inadmissibility, and denial of naturalization for non-citizens
Permanent Record – Embezzlement convictions appear on background checks, identifying you as dishonest and untrustworthy to future employers, landlords, and business partners
Civil Liability – Beyond criminal restitution, victims can sue for additional damages, punitive damages, and attorney fees
Reputation Annihilation – In Paso Robles’ close-knit business community, embezzlement convictions destroy personal and professional reputation permanently

Professional Licensing Death Sentence: Embezzlement convictions are career-ending for licensed professionals. Attorneys face automatic disbarment. CPAs and accountants lose their licenses permanently. Real estate agents can’t maintain licenses with felony fraud convictions. Financial advisors lose FINRA registrations and can never work in securities again. Insurance agents lose appointments. Nurses face license revocation. Contractors lose contractor licenses. These aren’t temporary suspensions—they’re permanent career destruction. A $5,000 embezzlement conviction can end a six-figure career and decades of professional investment. We’ve represented numerous professionals accused of embezzlement where the stakes extended far beyond criminal penalties to include total professional destruction. Fighting these charges isn’t optional when your career and livelihood are at stake.

Common Defenses to Embezzlement Charges

Embezzlement charges are defensible through multiple strategies. Many embezzlement allegations arise from accounting errors, business disputes, or civil disagreements that don’t constitute crimes. Prosecutors must prove specific intent to defraud, and numerous defenses can create reasonable doubt or result in dismissed charges:

Lack of Intent to Defraud

Embezzlement requires specific intent to permanently deprive the owner of property and benefit yourself fraudulently. If you lacked this intent—you believed you had permission to use funds, you intended to repay money temporarily borrowed, you made accounting errors without criminal intent, or you had good-faith belief the compensation was owed to you—you cannot be convicted of embezzlement. We present evidence showing absence of criminal intent including documentation of permission or authorization, evidence of repayment attempts or plans, accounting records showing errors rather than intentional theft, and communications demonstrating good-faith belief in your right to the funds.

Civil Dispute, Not Criminal Conduct

Many embezzlement allegations are actually civil disputes—disagreements about compensation, expense reimbursement, commission calculations, or bonus entitlements. When employers disagree with employees about what compensation is owed, when business partners dispute profit sharing, or when principals and agents disagree about expense reimbursements—these are civil contract disputes, not criminal embezzlement. We demonstrate this through employment contracts showing disputed compensation terms, documentation of business agreements supporting your position, evidence of longstanding practices or verbal agreements, and communications showing genuine disagreement rather than theft.

Prosecutors sometimes file criminal charges in situations that should be resolved through civil litigation. We present evidence showing good-faith disputes about entitlement to funds, demonstrating these are contract disputes inappropriate for criminal prosecution.

Accounting Errors and Bookkeeping Mistakes

Alleged embezzlement often results from accounting errors, bookkeeping mistakes, or financial record discrepancies that don’t reflect intentional theft. Small businesses in Paso Robles—particularly wineries, restaurants, and hospitality businesses—often lack sophisticated accounting systems. Cash handling errors, misapplied payments, incorrectly categorized expenses, and accounting software mistakes can create apparent shortages that employers assume represent embezzlement. We work with forensic accountants to analyze financial records, identify legitimate errors and discrepancies, demonstrate that apparent shortages don’t represent actual theft, and present alternative explanations for financial discrepancies.

False Accusations and Employer Retaliation

Embezzlement accusations sometimes arise from employer retaliation—employees who complained about wage violations, reported workplace safety issues, or refused illegal instructions are falsely accused of theft when relationships sour. Employers also use embezzlement allegations strategically in unemployment disputes, workers’ compensation claims, or wrongful termination litigation. We investigate the timing of accusations, document evidence of retaliation or ulterior motives, present witnesses who can testify about employer’s true motivations, and demonstrate that accusations lack factual foundation.

Insufficient Evidence and Inflated Loss Calculations

Prosecutors must prove the amount allegedly embezzled beyond a reasonable doubt. Employers and alleged victims often inflate loss calculations, include unrelated business losses, or attribute all financial problems to employee theft without adequate proof. We challenge loss calculations through forensic accounting analysis, demonstrate that alleged losses include normal business expenses or other legitimate costs, present alternative explanations for financial shortages (other employees, vendor errors, accounting mistakes), and force prosecutors to prove each dollar allegedly embezzled with documentary evidence.

Constitutional Violations and Illegal Evidence

If police or employers violated your rights during investigation, evidence can be suppressed. Common violations include illegal searches of personal belongings, vehicles, or phones without consent or warrants; coerced confessions obtained through threats or promises; violation of Miranda rights during custodial interrogation; and improper employer searches exceeding legitimate business purposes. We file suppression motions to exclude illegally obtained evidence. Successful suppression can result in dismissed charges when key evidence is excluded.

Why Choose Central Coast Criminal Defense for Embezzlement Cases

Experience With Complex Financial Cases

Embezzlement defense requires understanding complex financial records, accounting principles, and business operations. We work with forensic accountants and financial experts who can analyze financial records to identify errors and discrepancies, calculate actual losses versus inflated claims, testify about accounting practices and industry standards, and present alternative explanations for financial discrepancies. We understand how to challenge prosecution financial evidence, cross-examine alleged victim employers about accounting practices, and present complex financial defenses to judges and juries in understandable terms.

Protecting Professional Licenses and Careers

For licensed professionals facing embezzlement charges, protecting your professional license is as important as avoiding criminal conviction. We understand licensing board procedures and consequences, negotiate plea agreements to offenses that don’t trigger automatic license revocation, structure diversion or deferred prosecution when possible, and coordinate with licensing attorneys to protect your ability to practice. We’ve helped numerous professionals avoid embezzlement convictions that would have ended their careers. Early intervention provides the best chance to protect both your criminal record and your professional license. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately if you’re a licensed professional facing embezzlement allegations.

Strategic Restitution Negotiation

Restitution in embezzlement cases can be financially devastating—creating obligations lasting decades and potentially bankrupting you and your family. We aggressively challenge inflated restitution demands by working with forensic accountants to audit alleged victim loss calculations, identifying inflated or unsupported loss claims, demonstrating that claimed losses include unrelated business problems, negotiating realistic restitution amounts based on actual proven losses, and structuring reasonable payment plans you can afford. We’ve successfully reduced restitution demands by hundreds of thousands of dollars by proving that alleged victims inflated their losses or attributed unrelated business failures to embezzlement.

Understanding Paso Robles Business Community

Paso Robles’ wine industry and hospitality businesses often operate informally with cash transactions, verbal agreements, and unsophisticated accounting. We understand these business dynamics and how legitimate business disputes become characterized as embezzlement. We know that tasting room cash handling creates opportunity for errors and false accusations, that restaurant and hotel accounting systems may lack proper controls making theft allegations difficult to prove, that family wineries and small businesses often commingle personal and business expenses creating accounting confusion, and that seasonal employment and high turnover in wine country create documentation gaps. This local knowledge informs our defense strategies and helps us demonstrate when allegations arise from business disputes rather than criminal conduct.

How We Defend Paso Robles Embezzlement Cases

1. Immediate Investigation and Evidence Preservation

The moment you contact us about embezzlement allegations—whether you’ve been arrested or learned you’re under investigation—we begin immediate investigation and evidence preservation. We advise you on communications with employers and police, preserve all relevant documents including employment contracts, compensation agreements, financial records, and communications, interview witnesses who can support your defense, and retain forensic accountants if financial analysis is needed. Early investigation often uncovers evidence proving civil disputes rather than criminal conduct, or documents showing permission and authorization prosecutors claim didn’t exist. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately if you learn of embezzlement allegations—before arrest if possible.

2. Comprehensive Financial Analysis With Expert Accountants

We retain forensic accountants to analyze all financial records, accounting systems, and alleged loss calculations. This includes obtaining and reviewing all relevant financial documents, analyzing accounting records to identify errors and discrepancies, calculating actual losses versus inflated claims, identifying alternative explanations for financial shortages, and preparing expert reports for prosecution and court. Expert analysis often reveals that alleged embezzlement was actually accounting errors, that loss calculations are inflated or unsupported, or that financial problems had causes other than employee theft. This analysis becomes critical both for negotiations and trial defense.

3. Strategic Pre-Filing Intervention When Possible

When we’re retained before charges are filed, we can often prevent prosecution entirely through pre-filing intervention. We present evidence to prosecutors showing civil disputes rather than criminal conduct, provide documentation of permission or authorization, demonstrate accounting errors or business losses not attributable to theft, and offer restitution or civil resolution when appropriate. Many embezzlement cases are resolved pre-filing through negotiated civil settlements, avoiding criminal charges entirely. This requires early retention—contact us immediately upon learning of allegations, before arrest if possible.

4. Aggressive Negotiation for Charge Reduction and Diversion

When charges are filed, we negotiate aggressively for the best possible outcome. This includes reducing felony charges to misdemeanors (critical for professional licensing), reducing embezzlement charges to non-fraud offenses when possible, securing pretrial diversion under PC 1001.95 for eligible defendants, negotiating civil compromises under PC 1377-1379 that result in dismissal, and structuring plea agreements that minimize restitution and avoid prison. We leverage case weaknesses—lack of intent evidence, accounting disputes, insufficient proof of losses—to achieve favorable resolutions protecting your career and financial future.

5. Trial Preparation and Defense

When cases proceed to trial, we prepare comprehensive defense strategies including presentation of forensic accountants as expert witnesses, cross-examination of alleged victim employers about accounting practices and business operations, documentary evidence supporting your defense, testimony from character witnesses and employers, and jury arguments explaining complex financial issues in understandable terms. We fight for not guilty verdicts when evidence supports acquittal and you refuse to accept unjust conviction for what was actually a civil dispute or accounting error.

6. Post-Conviction Relief and Professional License Protection

If conviction cannot be avoided, we continue working to minimize consequences through advocacy for probation instead of prison, negotiating realistic restitution amounts and payment plans, pursuing early termination of probation, seeking expungement under PC 1203.4, obtaining reduction of felonies to misdemeanors under PC 17(b), and coordinating with licensing attorneys to protect professional licenses when possible. Your case doesn’t end at sentencing—we continue fighting to minimize long-term impact.

Early Intervention Is Critical: Embezzlement cases benefit enormously from early defense intervention—ideally before charges are filed. Evidence must be preserved, financial records must be analyzed, and pre-filing negotiations can prevent prosecution entirely. Whether you’re under investigation or have been arrested, call +1 (805) 621-7181 now for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 for urgent situations. All consultations are strictly confidential. Early intervention can mean the difference between criminal conviction and civil resolution, between prison and freedom, between career destruction and protecting your professional future.

Areas We Serve in San Luis Obispo County

We defend embezzlement charges throughout Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo County, including:

Paso Robles – Wine industry businesses along Highway 46 West, downtown commercial district near Spring Street, hospitality businesses throughout the city, professional services offices, nonprofit organizations
Templeton – Main Street businesses, professional offices, wine industry employers
Atascadero – Commercial corridor along El Camino Real, professional services, healthcare facilities
San Miguel – Small business community north of Paso Robles
Shandon – Eastern San Luis Obispo County business community
Santa Margarita – Rural business community
San Luis Obispo – County seat, downtown business district, professional services, courthouse location
Unincorporated Areas – Rural businesses, vineyard operations, agricultural businesses

We represent clients investigated or arrested by Paso Robles Police Department following employer reports of embezzlement, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office in embezzlement investigations throughout the county, San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office investigators in complex financial cases, and other law enforcement agencies throughout San Luis Obispo County. All embezzlement cases are prosecuted by the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office and heard at San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.

Get Your Free Consultation – Paso Robles Embezzlement Defense

If you’ve been charged with or are under investigation for embezzlement in Paso Robles, you need experienced defense attorneys who understand complex financial cases, can work with forensic accountants, know how to protect professional licenses, and aren’t afraid to fight at trial. At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we’ve successfully defended embezzlement cases—preventing charges through pre-filing intervention, obtaining dismissals and not guilty verdicts, negotiating charge reductions that protected professional licenses, and achieving favorable outcomes that minimized restitution and avoided prison.

Call +1 (805) 621-7181 now for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7 for urgent situations. During your consultation, we’ll review the allegations against you, discuss potential defenses including civil dispute and lack of intent arguments, explain the impact on professional licensing, and provide honest guidance about your options. There’s no obligation—just straight answers about your situation and how we can help protect your career, your finances, and your freedom.

Don’t let embezzlement charges destroy your professional reputation and career. Contact Central Coast Criminal Defense today and let us start building your defense.

Call +1 (805) 621-7181 Now

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Available 24/7 for emergencies. All consultations are strictly confidential. Serving Paso Robles, Templeton, Atascadero, and all of San Luis Obispo County. Se habla español.

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Kit Westbrook and his team are extremely competent, skilled and compassionate lawyers. As an attorney practicing in a different area of the law, I have referred several cases to their office over the years. I know I can always trust the Central Coast Criminal Defense team to provide top-notch representation of clients in need.

Derek Waldron

I don’t even know where I begin with how grateful I am for Central Coast Criminal Defense, specifically Kit and Adrienne. From the moment we first spoke on the phone to when I got the call that they got my case dismissed I truly felt the dedication and support from Kit and Adrienne. Possibly the best part of this experience for me was feeling that these two genuinely cared about me as an individual and believed in my story. I do not have enough great things to say about this firm! They were hard-working, prompt, informative, and affordable! I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart Kit and Adrienne!!

Hannah Clingerman

I recommend Adrienne Haddad & CCCD to anyone in need of representation in a criminal case. I hired this firm to represent a family member facing a new charge, 2 probation violations & a CPO. The odds were stacked, but Adrienne knocked it out of the park. Our entire family is so grateful 🙏 Worth every penny!

Ashley DiNapoli

Very very satisfied with Adrienne! She has helped out my case more than I could imagine.They make situations very efficient and affordable to anyone in desperate need. My recommendation to anybody who has a tricky DUI situation would to give her a call!

Jose Campoverde

I wanted to hire an attorney to win a court case. After much research, I found Kit Westbrook. I liked his reviews and the help that he has provided in many different situations. After I hired him, he worked his hardest to help me. It did not take long, maybe a week, for him to change the outcome of of my situation. Kit has done for me, something a majority of lawyers would not be able to do. My future will be better because of him. I’m glad he is in this profession and highly recommend him. Also, if you are concerned about money, his prices at Cccd are very affordable.

Kieffer Taylor

I want to let anyone know who needs a criminal attorney on the Central Coast this is the firm to hire. I was in a tough spot arrested for domestic violence when all I did was defend myself against an alcoholic wife who was physically abusing me. Luckily, I took pictures of my injuries and gave them to Kit and Adrienne. These two attorneys are supremely knowledgeable in criminal law and are tenacious for the rights of their clients. Believe me, they will fight for you and never give up. They know the court system here from top to bottom. My case was dismissed. Kit and Adrienne, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help

Michael Cody

We are so thankful we chose Central Coast Criminal Defense to represent our son! His case was complicated and took a lot of patience and time to complete. The fees were very reasonable compared to other attorneys. The team went above and beyond what is normally expected including ultimately getting the charges dismissed. Billy and Jamie were awesome and very patient with us while we worked through this process together. Having never been through anything like this as a family they always kept us informed even during the Pandemic. We cannot express how grateful we are to them for all of their hard work!

Paul Lee

In a time of uncertainty and great need, I was fortunate to meet Kit from Central Coast Criminal Defense. After explaining my situation, he explained to me what our options were and how he recommended proceeding. He was always understanding and supportive throughout this entire process. I couldn’t be more grateful for Kit’s knowledge and help. I would recommend Kit and his team to anybody looking for help.

Jason Varley

Adrienne Haddad is the best. I was able to get the legal assistance in a professional and timely manner.

I would highly recommend Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Pale Rider

I contacted CCCD the morning after receiving a DUI. They immediately got to work, and we’re able to save my license from being suspended. During a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible, Adrienne Haddad was especially helpful to me. Not only was she able to defend me from an unjust accusation, her calm and empathetic demeanor always helped me remain hopeful. I am eternally grateful for her service and I recommend her for legal defense.

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Andrea D

I am very pleased with my outcome the staff here are very friendly. Also I want to thank Adrienne for handling my case. Also to James and Kit, You’re awesome .I have refereed friends to this law firm. As a first time dealing with lawyers, It was a good experience. They have Great comminication and were there for me every step of the way and accommodating to my financial situation. So Thank you :)!!!!!!

R3con R3con

I was in need of a consultation regarding a review of court documents for an issue from 20 years ago. I found Central Coast Criminal Defense online and contacted them based on their great reviews. After ringing the firm, I was quickly transferred to attorney Kit Westbrook, who was not only knowledgeable about the legal system, but gave me sound advice about my situation moving forward. Kit immediately reviewed my documents and contacted me right away. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of professional legal services.

Rich L

Our first contact with CCCD was with Kit Westbrook. He fully explained the representation they can provide in my son’s situation and was genuinely sympathetic with the stress and anxiety of being charged with a DUI. After explaining their team structure, my son was very fortunate to have been represented by Adrienne Haddad at CCCD. She established an excellent working relationship with me and my son, she communicated very timely and clearly in setting expectations and was highly responsive to calls and emails from us. As a client, we appreciate that level of service and attention. Adrienne is very knowledgeable and experienced in matters of criminal law. The court’s judgement in my son’s case was exactly as she had explained and anticipated in his particular situation. I also want to say that I appreciate that there was no scope creep in their fees…i.e. we paid only what we were originally told. I highly recommend CCCD for anyone needing defense counsel. Thank you Adrienne and Kit.

Victoria Santos

Having lived on the Central Coast since 1979, I can say with complete confidence that Central Coast Criminal Defense represents the best legal defense team in this area. Call them. Kit and Cody literally provided the finest counsel you could ask for and resolved my dilemma to my satisfaction. For your loved ones–or yourself–get in touch with them if you need legal defense. Call them NOW. This paralegal team treated my case with great care and myself and family with dignity at all times. Communication–whether by telephone, email, or in person–was always clear, straightforward, and structured to meet my needs. This team got to know me and my case intimately from the very beginning, and acted with great speed to resolve the situation. Cody Christiansen, my defense attorney, met my legal needs every step of the way. Cody did everything possible to make sure I was secure and safe, leaving no stone untouched in his defense strategy. It was greatly reassuring to partner with a truly professional attorney. Cody acted with intense energy from the moment I met him. This is an attorney who won’t let up for a single moment in service to his client. From my first contact with Central Coast Criminal Defense all the way up to my case dismissal and afterwards, this team was there to support me. Young or old, this is the team you NEED to have representing your interests with professionalism and integrity. They are the real deal.

Alexander Chakshiri

Kit and the whole team at Central Coast Criminal Defense were top-notch experts when it came to the specifics of my charge. I called Kit and was shortly thereafter presented with defense options. Kit went right to work. Thankfully, do to the competent and aggressive counsel by the legal team at Central, my case was dismissed. If you ever run into the unfortunate necessity of having to hire a criminal attorney, I highly recommend Kit and the entire team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Thanks again.

James Childress

Not enough good things I can say about this law practice from top to bottom. From my first call, the head lawyer was just so good at setting my mind at ease. My assigned lawyer and the support staff continued to be responsive, stress reducing and at the end of the day, utterly effective. Case dismissed! I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Needless to say, highly recommend, though hope I never need them again! 😉

Brad Altfest

I needed a criminal defense attorney. I found CCC and they were able to clearly instruct me on the best strategy, and they accomplished everything they said they would.

Cody perfectly handled my situation completely. I felt at ease and that I was in good hands throughout the ordeal. Before Hiring him, I felt the system was completly against me & there wasn’t anything I could do about it… it was scary.
In court, both the judge and the DA treated him with respect. I was very pleased with how well he navagated my case through the court.

Also– I experienced an unexpected hiccup a year down the road and went back to them with this new development… I was totally broke– they helped me again because they felt it was the right thing to do. And again they were able to accomplish what would have been impossible for me to do on my own.

I am very happy I hired them, as the entire team is knowledgable, supportive and agressivly fought for me.

I highly recommend you bring your situation to them & let them give you the best defense possible.

Melvin Kryger

Cody Christianson and his staff provided me with top notch service. My nephew, Jr, was in a bind because the attorney he had hired was doing a poor job of representing him, so we decided to drop that attorney and call Cody. The difference was like night and day. Cody took the case on short notice, with limited amount of time and won. Cody battled for us and we’re grateful to him for everything he did. I would highly recommend him to anyone. I won’t go anywhere else. Thanks guys!!

Steve M

Central Coast Criminal Defense is a reputable and professional entity that assisted me in a very difficult time. The legal ramifications of errant choices can be overwhelming at best. Much appreciation is given to the attorneys who provided consultation and stood up for our family in court. The law is impossible for the lay citizen to navigate. I will be forever grateful for Kit Westbrook and his skill, knowledge, and support. I would recommend him for any legal need you may have. He will solve the problem in the best way possible.

David Becar

Kit Westbrook and Central Coast Criminal Defense provided the best legal representation I could have asked for. Kit was very understanding and made sure to communicate with me frequently while resolving the case. He is incredibly knowledgable and showed genuine kindness towards me during a difficult time. He made the case process much easier and exemplifies everything you hope for in an attorney. Trustworthiness and dependability, thats what you get from Kit and CCCD.

Robin Ruddell

I was charged with DUI so I hired the team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Although the odds were not on my favor and every piece of evidence was against me, my Attorney, Adrienne Haddad was able to have my DUI reduced to a reckless driving. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would do it.

Sam Damon

I just got a call from Adrienne Haddad at Central Coast Criminal Defense… I hired her to represent me in a charge that I felt was completely unwarranted and I needed help to get it dismissed off my record. I met with her and knew right away she was the attorney I wanted representing me. I was very surprised that the retainer fee was affordable and she was willing to let me make payments. I never even had to step foot into a court room. She did about 5 times for me which saved me from having to take time off work and drive almost 2 hours to each court date. She always called me right after and filled me in on how it went. Just like she did today, and let me know she got it dropped and there will be no record of it. I cant imagine how badly it could have gone if I didnt have her on my side. So Thank you Adrienne! Hopefully I wont ever need an attorney again but if I do I know who I’m calling!!!

Amber Ligon

We have no words to express our gratitude for the incredible work that my criminal attorney did for our father’s case, especially at a time when our options appeared limited. He went above and beyond to get the situation resolved. Hands down the best attorney and law firm!

Clark Murphy

Kit and Adrian were able to give me peace of mind and were very professional. They were able to get my case dismissed before my arraignment. I appreciate them and everything they did for me. Thank you Kit and Adrian!

M M

A few weeks ago, I needed help and had many specific questions. Kit Westbrook took time out of his busy day not only to call me back, but to answer my ALL of my questions. Mr. Westbrook was straight forward, very professional and polite. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal help. Thank you Mr. Westbrook for all of your help.
Respectfully,
Grace Weddle

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Professionalism

Gracie Weddle

Needing a good lawyer is not something we deal with on a daily basis, so when I had a need for one I read reviews from other people. The reviews for CCCD were good so I gave them a call. I was not disappointed . Our case was dealt with in a professional manner and at no time did we feel we were just another case number. Thank you thank you Jimmie for a job well done. I highly recommended CCCD.

Debi Johnson

If you find yourself in need of a great lawyer and a team of legal advisors to help guide you through a difficult and confusing legal system and get you the best possible outcome, then I highly recommend CCCD. This is exactly what Kit and Cody did for my family. Thanks to all the previous great reviews of CCCD for leading me to them.

Teresa J

Without saying to much on my case. I contacted central coast criminals defense for some legal help and “KIT”who represented me was professional, honest and experienced on my case. I highly Recommend this company to anyone who needs a professional lawyer with a friendly caring staff. Thanks kit…

Renee Macias

I am so happy to have found my criminal lawyer and his firm. He was amazing in court and I was glad I had him by my side during the most stressful time of my life. In the end, I wouldn’t have to serve any jail time and would be able to continue with my life, all thanks to my lawyer and this law office!

Paulina Komza

I had a relatively minor legal matter, but Kit was able to successfully advocate the DA on my behalf so no charge was pressed and I simply had to take 2 classes. Kit is effective and will do whatever necessary to make his clients feel they were treated well.

David L

I couldn’t be any happier with Central Coast Criminal Defense. Adrienne was very helpful on explaining and representing me. From now on I’m recommending Central Coast Criminal Defense to any one who needs a lawyer! Thank you Adrienne for all your hard work.

Jose Albarran

I called in regarding advice on a court issue. I had Mr. Kit Westbrook on the phone after nearly no wait time. He reviewed my circumstances and got back to me within an hour with all the information I needed. Super friendly, professional and empathetic. Fantastic!

Micah

I just wanted to write a quick review to CCCD to thank them for going about and beyond to help me with a my legal matter. Adrienne Haddad was super professional and handled my issue quickly and without any headaches. Thank you again for helping me get the best outcome that was possible!!

JIMMY CRUTCHFIELD

Anyone with legal issue should definitely use this law office. My DUI attorney and his team are always available to answer questions, very professional and on point. Highly recommended!

Anna Gratel

This awesome attorney Kit was Truly a man who goes over and beyond to help people. My wife and I are Very thankful for his help and I am Very confident and grateful in expressing my humble feelings about him. This is the Man

josh cruz

Very pleased with my experience with CCCD and specifically Adrienne. Great outcome and pleasure to work with throughout the process.

Chris Rooney

The outcome can never be guaranteed when working with the judicial system. The affordable rates to fit my budget without compromising the quality of service I received, I have and will continue to recommend to others.

Evelynne Griffith

Kit and his crew were amazing. They were there when I needed help and have continued to guide me through a very tough time. Their fees are on par with the services provided and well worth the investment.

Brian Roberts

i was happy with my experience Kit and his team are honest hard working attorneys i would highly recommend them to anyone.

Daniel Costa

I have the highest regard for Kit Westbrook. He has integrity and knows how to navigate through a difficult situation. He is responsive to client needs because he really cares.

Sheri Becar

I was very pleased with the help I received here. Adrienne was very helpful. I had a lot of legal questions and she was very easy to get ahold of. Had very informative answers and I would recommend her to anyone

Melanie Garay

I was visiting friends & family in California and needed some legal help all while I was in Michigan. I called these guys and they helped me out big time, great organization, great people, would use their services again.

Ali Kasra

Kit was great! Helped me with my case in SLO county and made me feel less stress.

Stacy Myers

Loved all of the staff at CCCD, especially Ms. Haddad. Impeccable work! Great outcome! Affordable price!

Martha Stromberg

sincere and honest man you can trust his experience and expect the best outcome possible …thanks Cody ….

Don Laucella

Adrian and Kit really care about their clients and will go the extra mile to help them.

Carlos Leyva

Thank you Adriana you are always very helpful.

K Mabry

Very nice people.

Richard

Atty Kit just saved us from a 1 point driving record conviction, unnecessary attorney’s fees, and certain increased premiums on my young daughter’s car insurance rates.

We were mistakenly under the impression that if she took an illegal left turn (there was poorly posted and confusing signage) citation to court, and lost, that she’d still have the option for traffic school. And we we have been trying for weeks to retain an attorney to represent her, or to get feedback. We even turned to the free bar assn legal referral service who also could not get any help for her. Turns out most attorneys will only take cases involving misdemeanor or felony charges…

Today, we had the fortune of calling Central Coast Criminal Defense and were surprisingly patched through to Atty Kit.

Within 5 minutes at no cost to us – Atty Kit listened to the details and counseled us to save the attorneys fees and for her to go directly to traffic school because the odds are likely that the police officer will appear in court and that the judge will hold up the police officer’s reasoning for the citation.

Once convicted, my daughter would have (i) a guilty verdict with no chance of traffic school (traffic school is off the table when you take a ticket all the way through to trial); (ii) a point on her record; (iii) a guaranteed increase on insurance costs; (iv) a hefty court fine, and, (v) incurred the cost of his attorney fees.

Super appreciate Atty Kit and his office’s business model of screening calls with the opportunity for a quick free consultation. No other attorneys we spoke to boiled it down for us like this and we were very much on the wrong track.

I wish all attorneys were like this, felt like ‘old school’ lawyering!

Stacy Merrill

News and Blogs

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San Luis Obispo Proposition 47 Attorney
New Law, Proposition 47, Will Have a Big Impact in San Luis Obispo Courts by Reducing Some Common Felonies to Misdemeanors.

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