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Arrested?
Protect
Your Rights!

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

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.

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We Will Defend Your Rights & Protect Your Future

Our Practice Areas

Arson
Criminal Threats
Domestic Violence
Drug Crimes
DUI and Traffic Offenses
Federal Crimes
Firearm Offenses
Juvenile Crimes
Sex Offenses
Theft and Property Crimes
Violent Crimes
White Collar Crimes

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…

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Sexual Assault Allegation

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

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Cultivation and Possession Charges

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

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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

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…

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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,…

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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…

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The Role of Witness Testimony in Riverside County Theft and Burglary Cases

In California, theft and burglary cases depend on whether the prosecution can prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Witness testimony plays a crucial role from the moment of arrest through the final verdict. Often, the strength or weakness of witness testimony can make the difference between conviction and acquittal. As such,…

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What Constitutes Possession of Stolen Property in Riverside County

Facing an accusation of possessing stolen property can be intimidating and confusing, especially if you had no idea the items in question were stolen. California law takes these cases seriously, and even a misunderstanding can led to criminal charges under Penal Code §496. Understanding how this law works, how it’s prosecuted, and what defenses may…

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How to Challenge Evidence in a Riverside County DUI Case

DUI’s in Riverside County are taken seriously and even a first-time DUI conviction can result in imprisonment and license suspension. A DUI case often depends on the strength of the evidence presented by the prosecution and a strong criminal defense requires challenging every possible weakness in that evidence. From questioning the legality of the arrest…

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