a white building with columns and statues

Arrested?
Protect
Your Rights!

Since 1999, the Law Office of Nic Cocis Has Been Defending the Accused Throughout Riverside County.

a man in a suit and tie

Murrieta, Temecula & Menifee Criminal Defense Lawyer

Experienced Criminal Defense in Riverside County

If you have recently been arrested, the confusion and stress can feel paralyzing. At the Law Office of Nic Cocis, we specialize in guiding clients through these difficult times with compassion and aggression. Serving Murrieta, Temecula, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Winchester and Menifee, our criminal defense law office is here to ensure you do not have to navigate the legal system alone.
Our strength lies in our local experience. Because we are based in Murrieta, we are highly familiar with the specific judges and prosecutors of the Riverside County judicial system. We use this insight to craft defense strategies that make your legal goals a reality. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony, you can be confident in our ability to successfully resolve your matter.

We Will Defend Your Rights & Protect Your Future

Our Practice Areas

Explore Our Success Stories

Real Cases.
Real Results


  • Federal Tax Fraud

    Client was charged in Federal Court with filing fraudulent income tax returns over a two-year period, involving approximately $100,000 in…

    view all

  • Sexual Assault Allegation

    Our client, a security guard at an apartment complex, was accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl after allegedly kissing…

    view all

  • Cultivation and Possession Charges

    Our client was arrested along with two others by the Sheriff’s Department and the Department of Fish & Wildlife in…

    view all

  • Real Estate Fraud & Arson Charges Reduced

    Our client, a real estate agent, was under investigation by the District Attorney’s Office after an insurance company suspected a…

    view all

  • Federal Case in Fort Wayne, Indiana

    We successfully defended a client facing charges of bank fraud involving card skimming devices. These advanced tools steal bank information…

    view all

  • Private School Wins Major Victory Against Unreasonable Search by Cal/OSHA

    We recently helped a private school in San Jose, CA, win a major victory against government overreach. During COVID restrictions, Cal/OSHA…

    view all
a long table with chairs in a room
We Put Our Clients First

What Sets
Us Apart?

Award-Winning Representation

Voted “Attorney of the Year” in 2018 by the Southwest Riverside County Bar Association, we are recognized for our outstanding legal services and commitment to client success.

Proven Track Record of Success

With over two decades of experience practicing criminal law since 1999, we have built an extensive history of delivering real results for our clients.

In-Depth Local Expertise

Our deep familiarity with local judges and prosecutors gives us a strategic advantage in navigating the legal system and advocating effectively on your behalf.

Top-Rated Legal Services

Rated 10.0 Superb on Avvo, our firm is committed to providing the highest quality representation and ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

Recent Articles

  • Businessman is consulting with lawyers

    How to Seal or Destroy an Arrest Record in California

    An arrest record can follow a person long after a case ends, affecting employment, housing, professional licensing, social status, and immigration status. Fortunately, California law provides several legal remedies that may limit or even remove the impact of past arrests and convictions. Depending on how a case was resolved, individuals may be eligible to seal…

    Go to Post

  • Empty flatbed tow carrier truck

    Understanding Vehicle Impoundment After a DUI in California

    A DUI arrest in California can trigger far more than a court case. In addition to potential criminal penalties and driver’s license suspension, many drivers are surprised to learn that their vehicle may be seized and impounded immediately an arrest. Understanding how California DUI law works, the penalties involved, and what to do if your…

    Go to Post

  • Masked burglar in balaclava with red crowbar

    How Enhancements Can Increase Penalties for California Theft Crimes

    A theft charge in California can carry more serious consequences than many people realize, especially when sentencing enhancement laws come into play. While some theft offenses begin as misdemeanors, California law allows prosecutors to significantly increase penalties based on a defendant’s criminal history, the nature of the offense, and aggravating factors such as weapons or…

    Go to Post

  • Man is working with documents

    What to Expect During a California Preliminary Hearing

    California’s criminal justice system follows a structured process. Cases progress through several stages, including the initial investigation and arrest, arraignment, pretrial proceedings (such as discovery, motions, and plea negotiations), a preliminary hearing, and trial. An appeal or motion for a new trial may be filed following a conviction. Among these stages, the preliminary hearing is…

    Go to Post

  • Lawyer is speaking with client

    Defending Against False Accusations of Domestic Violence in Riverside County, CA

    Facing domestic violence allegations in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Winchester, Wildomar, French Valley or Lake Elsinore can be overwhelming, especially when the accusations are false. Domestic violence crimes are taken extremely seriously in the state, and law enforcement, prosecutors, and courts move quickly once a report is made. If you’ve been arrested or accused of DV,…

    Go to Post

  • Implied Consent Laws phrase on the page

    How California’s Implied Consent Law Affects DUI Arrests

    Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most heavily enforced offenses in California, carrying serious legal and personal consequences. The state’s laws are designed to discourage impaired driving and promote public safety. To enforce these laws, California has established clear rules under its Vehicle Code not only defining what constitutes driving under the…

    Go to Post