Real Cases, Real Results

Case Results

A selection of case outcomes achieved by Attorney Nic Cocis at the Southwest Justice Center, in federal courts, and throughout California. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

FederalLos Angeles

Federal Tax Fraud

The Challenge

Client was charged in Federal Court with filing fraudulent income tax returns over a two-year period, involving approximately $100,000 in false refund claims submitted to the IRS. The prosecutor recommended a lengthy jail sentence.

Our Strategy

Drawing on substantial federal court experience, we conducted an exhaustive review of the government's financial evidence and identified mitigating factors in our client's background. We negotiated a favorable plea agreement and presented compelling sentencing memoranda highlighting our client's cooperation, lack of prior criminal history, and personal circumstances that warranted leniency.

The Result

PROBATION — NO JAIL TIME

Sex OffensesRiverside County

Sexual Assault Allegation

The Challenge

Our client, a security guard at an apartment complex, was accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl after allegedly kissing her in a stairwell. The accusation arose when the security guard discovered the teenager and her boyfriend in the stairwell and was about to report their conduct to their parents.

Our Strategy

We conducted a thorough independent investigation and uncovered evidence demonstrating that the allegation was fabricated by the teenagers in an attempt to avoid getting into trouble with their parents. At trial, we systematically dismantled the prosecution's case through cross-examination and presentation of exculpatory evidence.

The Result

NOT GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS

FederalFort Wayne, IN

Federal Bank Fraud (Card Skimming)

The Challenge

Our client faced federal charges of bank fraud involving sophisticated card skimming devices — advanced tools that steal bank information from the magstripe or microchip on credit and debit cards, often using hidden cameras on ATMs to capture customers' PINs.

Our Strategy

We mounted a vigorous defense in federal court, presenting mitigating factors and negotiating with federal prosecutors to minimize our client's exposure. Our advocacy at sentencing focused on our client's personal circumstances and cooperation, resulting in a significantly reduced sentence.

The Result

CREDIT FOR TIME ALREADY SERVED AND 1 YEAR SUPERVISED RELEASE

Media Coverage

U.S. Attorney's OfficeWANE News
Drug CrimesTemecula

Cultivation of 1,000+ Marijuana Plants & Firearms

The Challenge

Our client was arrested along with two others by the Sheriff's Department and the Department of Fish & Wildlife in connection with the cultivation of approximately 1,000 marijuana plants, possession of about 15 pounds of processed marijuana, cash, and several firearms at a residence in Temecula.

Our Strategy

We conducted a meticulous review of the search warrant, chain of custody, and the evidence linking our client to the operation. Through thorough investigation and persistent negotiation with the prosecution, we demonstrated that the evidence against our client was insufficient to sustain the charges.

The Result

ALL CHARGES DISMISSED

Theft & White CollarRiverside County

Real Estate Fraud & Arson

The Challenge

Our client, a real estate agent, was under investigation by the District Attorney's Office after an insurance company suspected a house fire was intentionally set for fraud. The DA's probe uncovered a pattern of multiple fire-related insurance claims. Our client was arrested and charged in an alleged conspiracy involving fraudulent notarization and recording of Grant Deeds, mortgage and real estate fraud, and grand theft exceeding $1 million.

Our Strategy

We successfully argued that many charges were invalid due to the statute of limitations, filing detailed motions challenging each count. Through strategic negotiations with the prosecution, we secured the dismissal of several counts and advocated for an alternative sentence that would allow our client to remain in the community.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED — HOME CONFINEMENT INSTEAD OF PRISON TIME

Constitutional DefenseSan Jose

Cal/OSHA Obtained Search Warrant for Private School and Church

The Challenge

We represented a private school in San Jose, CA, against government overreach. During COVID restrictions, Cal/OSHA sought a search warrant based on a flimsy, anonymous complaint that staff weren't wearing masks. With the warrant in hand, Cal/OSHA inspected the entire school and issued citations.

Our Strategy

For nearly 3 years, we challenged the legality of the search warrant, arguing it violated the school's 4th Amendment protection against unreasonable searches. We filed extensive briefing demonstrating that Cal/OSHA had misled the judge who issued the warrant, and that the warrant lacked the specificity required by the Constitution.

The Result

ILLEGAL EVIDENCE EXCLUDED AND THE CASE WAS DISMISSED

Media Coverage

Court's Opinion
Drug CrimesHemet

Large-Scale Marijuana Cultivation & Dozens of AR-15

The Challenge

Law enforcement carried out an extensive undercover operation lasting several months, which revealed large-scale marijuana cultivation at various sites in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Our client was also found in possession of dozens of AR-15 firearms. The prosecutor's office demanded a prison sentence.

Our Strategy

We negotiated aggressively with the prosecution, presenting evidence of our client's role in the operation and personal circumstances that warranted an alternative to incarceration. We advocated for a sentence that would allow our client to remain with their family while serving their time under strict supervision.

The Result

HOUSE ARREST INSTEAD OF PRISON

Drug CrimesLake Elsinore

Possession for Sale of 45 lbs. Meth, Fentanyl & Heroin

The Challenge

Members of the Sheriff's Department and the DEA executed a search warrant at a house where they found 45 lbs. of methamphetamine, 6 lbs. of fentanyl, 5 lbs. of heroin, and 29 lbs. of marijuana. Our client was alleged to be holding the drugs on behalf of a multinational drug trafficking organization and faced a potential sentence of decades in federal prison.

Our Strategy

We worked closely with our client to negotiate with prosecutors, presenting mitigating factors including our client's limited role in the organization and willingness to accept responsibility. Our advocacy at sentencing focused on achieving the most favorable outcome possible given the severity of the charges.

The Result

SENTENCE REDUCED RESULTING IN PROBATION WITH JAIL INSTEAD OF LENGTHY PRISON TIME

FederalWashington, D.C.

Federal Conspiracy to Obstruct Congress' Certification of Presidential Election

The Challenge

After a month-long federal trial in Washington, D.C., our client was charged with conspiracy and obstructing an official proceeding — the joint session of Congress to certify the 2020 presidential election. Prosecutors tied our client to the "Three Percenters" militia group and alleged he shared social media posts about transporting weapons and tactical gear to the rally.

Our Strategy

We argued that our client intended to protect rally attendees from potential violence and had no criminal intent to disrupt the congressional proceedings. We challenged the prosecution's characterization of our client's social media activity and presented evidence of his stated peaceful intentions.

The Result

WE MOUNTED A VIGOROUS DEFENSE

Media Coverage

LA TimesAP NewsYahoo News
Violent CrimesTemecula

Off-Duty Police Captain Facing Charges for Assault With a Firearm and Criminal Threats

The Challenge

We successfully negotiated a favorable plea deal, reducing the charge to a misdemeanor for “disturbing the peace.” This outcome protected the Captain’s career, allowing him to move forward without the burden of a more severe conviction.

Our Strategy

We developed a defense strategy that challenged the prosecution's version of events, examined witness credibility, and presented evidence of mitigating circumstances.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Drug CrimesMurrieta

Possession With Intent to Sell 2,000 lbs. (1 ton) of Marijuana

The Challenge

After lengthy court proceedings, we were able to convince the prosecutor to dismiss the charge of possession with intent to sell leveled against our client. Our client plead guilty to one misdemeanor child endangerment charge and was placed on probation with house arrest.

Our Strategy

Drawing on decades of experience handling drug cases at the Southwest Justice Center, we developed a comprehensive defense strategy that examined the legality of the search and seizure and the strength of the prosecution's evidence.

The Result

FELONY CHARGES REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Violent CrimesTemecula

Accessory to Murder After a Restaurant Shooting

The Challenge

Our client was charged as an accessory to murder after a shooting at a busy Temecula restaurant. The prosecution alleged our client aided the primary suspect in fleeing the scene after a fatal confrontation.

Our Strategy

After a careful review of the police reports and video surveillance footage, we established that our client was almost shot himself as he tried to de-escalate the confrontation between his friend and one of the victims. We presented this evidence to the prosecution to negotiate a significantly reduced charge and sentence.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED RESULTING IN PROBATION INSTEAD OF LENGTHY PRISON TIME

Media Coverage

San Bernardino SunABC 7
Violent CrimesLake Elsinore

10 Days of Round-the-Clock Surveillance of Client’s House Ended with SWAT Team Entering to Search for Illegal Guns

The Challenge

We reviewed the search warrant and concluded that it lacked probable cause to connect our client’s home to any illegal activity. We then challenged the search warrant in court on the basis that the warrant was issued in violation of the 4 Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Our Strategy

Leveraging 25+ years of courtroom experience at the Southwest Justice Center, Attorney Cocis developed a defense strategy that challenged the prosecution's version of events, examined witness credibility, and presented evidence of mitigating circumstances.

The Result

DISMISSED

Sex OffensesLos Angeles

Federal Child Pornography Charges Against Naval Officer

The Challenge

A Lieutenant Commander facing federal charges for felony receipt of child pornography achieved an unprecedented outcome. The court sentenced our client to only 2 years in prison—a dramatically reduced sentence for this type of federal offense.

Our Strategy

This exceptional result was so far below standard federal sentencing guidelines that it prompted the U.S. Attorney’s Office to file an appeal against the judge’s decision.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Sex OffensesTemecula

High School Teacher Accused of Sexting with Student

The Challenge

With the expertise of a highly skilled forensic psychologist, we successfully persuaded the prosecutor to reduce the charge to an offense that did not require sex offender registration.

Our Strategy

We conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations, challenged the credibility of the evidence, and developed a defense strategy focused on protecting the client's rights and reputation.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED AND AVOIDED SEX-OFFENDER REGISTRATION

Media Coverage

Press Enterprise
Theft & White CollarMurrieta

Office Manager Accused of Grand Theft and Embezzlement

The Challenge

An office manager was accused of grand theft and embezzlement of approximately $55,000 from her employer. A subsequent background investigation revealed that the office manager was previously involved in a $3-million real estate scam for which she was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Our Strategy

We successfully negotiated a resolution that resulted in probation and house arrest for the office manager’s new case.

The Result

SENTENCE REDUCED RESULTING IN PROBATION WITH JAIL INSTEAD OF LENGTHY PRISON TIME

Sex OffensesMenifee

Firefighter Cleared of Child Endangerment and Molestation Charges

The Challenge

We successfully negotiated with the DA's Office and prevented criminal charges from being filed in a case where a firefighter was arrested for alleged child endangerment and molestation.

Our Strategy

By presenting compelling evidence and case details to the District Attorney’s Office, we convinced prosecutors not to pursue charges against our client.

The Result

CLEARED

Criminal DefenseOrange County

Church Pastor Facing Criminal Charges for Violating COVID-19 Regulations

The Challenge

After nearly 10 months of legal wrangling, the case was thrown out after we were able to convince the prosecutor that the religious service did not constitute a criminal offense, nor did the pastor violate the city’s code because his religious service did not meet the legal definition of a “Permit Required" event.

Our Strategy

We applied our 25+ years of criminal law experience and obtained a case dismissal.

The Result

DISMISSED

Media Coverage

Orange County RegisterLos Angeles Times
Drug CrimesLake Elsinore

Transportation of 540 Pounds of Cocaine

The Challenge

An informant tipped off law enforcement about a truck transporting cocaine from San Diego to Los Angeles. Officers tracked the vehicle to a ride-share parking lot, where they discovered approximately 244 kilograms (540 lbs.) of cocaine—worth an estimated $24 million.

Our Strategy

Despite the serious charges, we fought aggressively to protect our client’s rights and secured the best possible outcome.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Sex OffensesWildomar

High-School Basketball Coach Accused of Sex Crimes With Student

The Challenge

Avoided Registration as Sex-Offender We successfully negotiated a reduction of the offense to one that did not require sex offender registration.

Our Strategy

With decades of experience handling sensitive cases at the Southwest Justice Center, Attorney Cocis conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations, challenged the credibility of the evidence, and developed a defense strategy focused on protecting the client's rights and reputation.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

FederalWashington, D.C.

FBI Arrested Client for Involvement in Events on January 6th at U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.

The Challenge

Substantial Reduction of Sentence After more than a year of negotiations with the U.S. Attorney's Office, all charges were dismissed, except one felony count of obstructing police officers during a civil disorder.

Our Strategy

We brought our extensive federal court experience to bear, working closely with the client to develop a comprehensive defense strategy that addressed the complex federal charges and sentencing guidelines.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Media Coverage

U.S. House of Representatives Select CommitteeYahoo
Violent CrimesIndio

Off-Duty Sheriff’s Deputy Charged with Felony Assault with Deadly Weapon

The Challenge

After investigating the incident, we uncovered critical details that were not included in the original law enforcement investigation.

Our Strategy

We were able to convince the prosecutor to dismiss all felony charges and the Deputy only plead guilty to misdemeanor offenses thus saving his job and preserving his career.

The Result

DISMISSED

Drug CrimesMenifee

Registered Nurse Was Married to Captain in Armed Forces, Whose Security Clearance and Career Were at Stake

The Challenge

We successfully negotiated a dismissal of all felony drug and theft charges, securing a plea to a misdemeanor with probation and drug treatment. This resolution not only safeguarded the Nurse’s professional license but also protected the Captain’s military career.

Our Strategy

Drawing on decades of experience handling drug cases at the Southwest Justice Center, we developed a comprehensive defense strategy that led to all felony charges being dismissed .

The Result

FELONY CHARGES REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Theft & White CollarTemecula

Bookkeeper Arrested for Theft of $330,000 from Temecula Area High School

The Challenge

After nearly two years of negotiations with the prosecutor’s office, we successfully secured a significantly reduced sentence. Instead of a lengthy prison terms, our client received probation and one year in custody.

Our Strategy

Attorney Cocis utilized his deep familiarity with the Southwest Justice Center and Riverside County courts to negotiate effectively with prosecutors, presenting mitigating evidence and challenging the valuation and intent elements of the charges.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Media Coverage

Press Enterprise10News San Diego
Theft & White CollarMurrieta

Felony Commercial Bribery of Casino Manager

The Challenge

We successfully negotiated a misdemeanor charge of “accessory after the fact”, preserving our client’s ability to continue working in the competitive world of casino gaming.

Our Strategy

We utilized our deep familiarity with the Southwest Justice Center and Riverside County courts to negotiate effectively with prosecutors, presenting mitigating evidence and challenging the valuation and intent elements of the charges.

The Result

FELONY CHARGES REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Sex OffensesLake Elsinore

Off-Duty CHP Officer Arrested For Lewd Act & Sexual Battery On Teenage Neighbor

The Challenge

The case proceeded to a jury trial, which ended in a hung jury. Ultimately, the prosecutor dismissed the charges.

Our Strategy

With decades of experience handling sensitive cases at the Southwest Justice Center, we conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations, challenged the credibility of the evidence, and developed a defense strategy focused on protecting the client's rights and reputation.

The Result

DISMISSED

Criminal DefenseTemecula

Criminal Case Involving “Hollywood Madam” Heidi Fleiss

The Challenge

After a long term romantic relationship ended, our client was accused of felony vandalism and several misdemeanor offenses by her former lover, “Hollywood Madam” Heidi Fleiss.

Our Strategy

We developed a targeted defense strategy, thoroughly examined the evidence and negotiatiated with prosecutors to achieve the most favorable outcome possible.

The Result

FELONY CHARGES REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Media Coverage

Press Enterprise
Domestic ViolenceMurrieta

Felony Domestic Violence Case Filed Against Member of Armed Forces

The Challenge

Case was dismissed after we presented solid evidence that the wife had a history of such false accusations.

Our Strategy

We applied our extensive experience defending domestic violence cases at the Southwest Justice Center, carefully examining witness credibility, the circumstances of the allegations, and available exculpatory evidence to build a strong defense.

The Result

DISMISSED

Drug CrimesMurrieta

Possession of $500,000 in Cash With Intent to Purchase Kilos of Cocaine

The Challenge

Our client and others arranged the purchase of approximately $500,000 worth of cocaine from an individual. That individual was an undercover police officer. Our client was arrested and the cash was confiscated.

Our Strategy

Using defense strategies we were able to reduce the prison sentence by 8 years.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Violent CrimesMurrieta

Book Author and Newspaper Editor Avoids Prison in Serious Dog Bite Case

The Challenge

A book author and former newspaper editor faced serious felony criminal negligence charges (Penal Code 399) after his large dog attacked a child, causing facial and neck injuries. The dog had previously shown aggressive behavior toward children.

Our Strategy

Given the severity of the injuries and the dog’s history, prosecutors pushed strongly for prison time. However, after extensive legal proceedings, we successfully persuaded the judge to impose a more lenient sentence of probation and house arrest instead of incarceration.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Media Coverage

Press Enterprise
Violent CrimesMurrieta

Off-Duty Sheriff’s Deputy Arrested for Pointing His Gun at Two Individuals During Verbal Argument

The Challenge

We conducted our own investigation and presented our findings to the prosecutor. As a result, the assault with a gun charge was dismissed. However, a conviction for brandishing a firearm would have automatically banned the Deputy from owning guns or other firearms for ten years.

Our Strategy

We conducted our own independent investigation and using those results, we successfully convinced the prosecutor and judge that the Deputy met the requirements of Penal Code 29860. The Deputy is now allowed to own a firearm.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Theft & White CollarTemecula

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Charged with 12 Counts of Fraudulent Use of Employer’s Credit Card

The Challenge

We successfully convinced the prosecutor to allow the EMT to complete Riverside County’s Deferred Entry of Judgement (DEJ) Program. After successfully completing the program, all the charges against the EMT were dropped.

Our Strategy

We utilized our familiarity with the Southwest Justice Center and Riverside County court procedures to negotiate effectively with prosecutors and obtain a favorable outcome.

The Result

DISMISSED

Drug CrimesRancho Cucamonga

DEA Wiretap Case Led to Arrest for Possession of 5 Pounds of Meth

The Challenge

Our client faced serious charges after DEA phone surveillance led to her arrest for transporting 5 pounds of methamphetamine. The prosecutor initially pushed for a lengthy prison sentence.

Our Strategy

We challenged the legality of the wiretap warrant that authorized intercepting our client’s calls. This approach changed everything. Instead of years in prison, we negotiated a dramatically reduced sentence of just 180 days of house arrest.

The Result

SENTENCE REDUCED RESULTING IN PROBATION WITH HOUSE ARREST INSTEAD OF LENGTHY PRISON TIME

Media Coverage

USA Today news article
DUIMurrieta

Individual Facing 3rd DUI While on Probation for 2nd DUI Avoided a Lengthy Jail Sentence

The Challenge

We negotiated a sentence of probation and house arrest, sparing our client from months of incarceration.

Our Strategy

We leveraged our 25+ years of experience at the Southwest Justice Center and through meticulous case preparation and strategic negotiation, we secured the best possible outcome.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Drug CrimesMurrieta

A Registered Nurse Arrested Twice for Possession with Intent to Sell

The Challenge

A nurse was arrested for possession with intent to sell marijuana. While on bail for this case, the nurse was arrested again for possession with intent to sell cocaine. The marijuana case and the “out on bail allegation” were dismissed.

Our Strategy

We convinced the prosecutor to dismiss the 1st case. For the 2nd case, the prosecutor changed the charge of cocaine possession for sell to a charge of transportation of cocaine for personal use. As a result, instead of facing a prison sentence, the nurse was granted probation and house arrest.

The Result

DISMISSED

Criminal DefenseMurrieta

Church Pastor Arrested for “Demonstrating”at DMV

The Challenge

We convinced the judge to dismiss the case mid-trial due to insufficient evidence presented by the DA’s Office. But we didn’t stop there. Because the arresting officer was dishonest in his report, we filed a lawsuit for wrongful arrest, and the Court of Appeal ruled in our favor.

Our Strategy

After thoroughly examining the evidence we found that the police officer’s report did not match the video footage of the incident, revealing that he had lied to justify the arrest.

The Result

DISMISSED

Media Coverage

The PatchFox News
Violent CrimesCanyon Lake

Bar Fight Resulted In Felony Charges of Assault Causing Great Bodily Injury

The Challenge

The prosecutor pushed for a multi-year state prison sentence due to the severity of the injuries and loss of consciousness.

Our Strategy

We successfully convinced the prosecutor to reduced the charge to misdemeanor battery, resulting in probation and a few days of house arrest for our client.

The Result

HOUSE ARREST

DUIFrench Valley

Felony DUI Injury Car Crash

The Challenge

In a case involving a serious DUI crash and injuries, we secured probation and house arrest for our client, preventing a lengthy prison sentence.

Our Strategy

We leveraged our 25+ years of experience at the Southwest Justice Center to secure the best possible outcome.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Theft & White CollarWinchester

Embezzlement and Grand-Theft of $250,000 by Bookkeeper

The Challenge

Our investigation revealed clear evidence that the company’s executives fabricated these accusations to cover up their multi-million dollar fraud scheme.

Our Strategy

Using defense strategies and presenting the results of our own independent investigation, we were able to convince the prosecutor to dismiss the case.

The Result

DISMISSED

Media Coverage

a troubling news article about the medical supply business
Violent CrimesMurrieta

Store Owner Charged With Felony Assault Resulting in Bodily Injury After Fighting With Thief

The Challenge

A store owner was charged with felony assault causing bodily injury after a confrontation with a thief. We conducted a thorough investigation, uncovering witness statements that challenged the thief’s claims.

Our Strategy

Using our uncovered evidence, we successfully persuaded the judge to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor. This outcome allowed our client to avoid jail time and continue running his business without a felony on his record.

The Result

FELONY CHARGES REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Domestic ViolenceMurrieta

Marine Sergeant Arrested for Felony Domestic Violence

The Challenge

We successfully intervened with the District Attorney’s Office and negotiated a reduction of the charge to a misdemeanor for interference with a telephone line California Penal Code 591 .

Our Strategy

Drawing on our extensive experience defending military personnel against domestic violence charges at the Southwest Justice Center, we built a strong and effective defense.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Drug CrimesMurrieta

Possession of 320 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Sell

The Challenge

Our client was arrested and charged with marijuana cultivation, possession of marijuana with intent to sell and child endangerment.

Our Strategy

The case took approximately two years to resolve, but ultimately, we convinced the prosecutor to dismiss the possession for sale and child endangerment charges. Our client was sentenced to 1 year of misdemeanor probation.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Media Coverage

NBC Newsthe Patch
Violent CrimesMurrieta

Robbery of Fast-Food Restaurant & False Imprisonment of Employees

The Challenge

A patron of a fast-food restaurant and the restaurant manager faked a robbery where several thousand dollars were taken. The other employee did not know that the robbery was staged. The patron was eventually arrested and charged with robbery and false imprisonment.

Our Strategy

We worked diligently to secure a favorable outcome, resulting in probation and a short jail term, thus avoiding a substantial state prison sentence.

The Result

SENTENCE REDUCED RESULTING IN PROBATION WITH JAIL INSTEAD OF LENGTHY PRISON TIME

DUIMenifee

Reckless Driving Reduced to a Simple Speeding Ticket

The Challenge

A young driver faced reckless driving charges after a car rollover during an alleged street race.

Our Strategy

We successfully reduced the charges to a simple speeding ticket.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED TO INFRACTION

Sex OffensesMurrieta

Client Whose DNA was Linked to Kidnap and Rape Faced a Sentence of 50 Years to Life

The Challenge

Were able to demonstrate that law enforcement let their investigation go dormant for 14 years. During that subsequent time, the police department destroyed critical evidence.

Our Strategy

We were able to negotiate a sentence of 8 years rather than serving the rest of his life in prison.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Media Coverage

NBC NewsThe Patch
Violent CrimesMurrieta

Threats to Blow-up Police Station Resulted in No Criminal Charges Filed

The Challenge

A former civil engineer was arrested after allegedly threatening to blow up a police station. Before the first court hearing, we successfully persuaded the prosecutor to dismiss all criminal charges, ensuring our client avoided a criminal record.

Our Strategy

Leveraging 25+ years of courtroom experience at the Southwest Justice Center we presented evidence of mitigating circumstances.

The Result

DISMISSED

Domestic ViolenceWildomar

Military Wife Avoids Domestic Violence Conviction

The Challenge

A military wife was charged with misdemeanor domestic violence, putting her future and family at risk.

Our Strategy

We fought for a better outcome, and the domestic violence charge was dismissed. Instead, she pled guilty to an infraction for “disturbing the peace.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Drug CrimesMurrieta

Individual Armed with Firearm While in Possession of 160 lbs. of Marijuana

The Challenge

After a thorough investigation, we identified significant legal improprieties and presented them to the prosecutor.

Our Strategy

As a result, the DA's Office reconsidered the charges, leading to the dismissal of our client’s case.

The Result

DISMISSED

Media Coverage

The Patch
DUIMurrieta

DUI Reduced, Marine’s Career Saved

The Challenge

A Marine Sergeant faced DUI charges with a blood alcohol level 2.5 times the legal limit. A conviction would have ended a long and dedicated military career.

Our Strategy

We negotiated a reduction to a "wet reckless" charge, allowing our client to move forward without jeopardizing his future.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Domestic ViolenceSan Diego

Licensed Therapist Cleared of Domestic Violence Charges On Military Base

The Challenge

Our client, a licensed therapist, was charged with domestic violence in Federal Court after an incident on a military base involving her husband, a GS-12 civilian employee. A conviction could have cost her career and professional license.

Our Strategy

We presented a strong defense, and the case was dismissed, protecting her future.

The Result

DISMISSED

Theft & White CollarLake Elsinore

Embezzlement of $212,000 by Club Treasurer

The Challenge

We negotiated with the high school and the District Attorney’s Office to craft a realistic repayment plan. This strategic approach proved successful, leading the judge to grant probation and house arrest instead of jail time.

Our Strategy

Using our familiarity with the Southwest Justice Center and Riverside County courts to negotiate effectively with prosecutors, we presented mitigating evidence which led to a favorable outcome.

The Result

FAVORABLE OUTCOME

Media Coverage

Press Enterprise
Theft & White CollarMurrieta

Felony Insurance Fraud Charges

The Challenge

Husband and wife were charged with 4 felony counts of insurance fraud after they falsely reported their car stolen and filed a claim with their insurance company. Both were facing substantial jail time. In addition, if convicted of any felony, the husband would have lost his security clearance issued by the TSA and in turn, his job.

Our Strategy

All felony counts were dismissed. The husband plead guilty to an infraction charge and the wife to a misdemeanor. Both received a small fine and no jail.

The Result

CHARGES REDUCED

Domestic ViolenceMurrieta

Off-Duty Sheriff's Deputy in Domestic Violence & Firearm Case

The Challenge

An off-duty Sheriff’s Deputy became the subject of a lengthy criminal investigation after he was accused of several domestic violence incidents and shooting a gun inside his house during one of those incidents. At the end of the criminal investigation, we were told that the Sheriff’s Deputy was going to be arrested. We then negotiated with the Detectives and obtained permission to surrender our client at the police station, thus, sparing him the embarrassment of being handcuffed in front of his neighbors or co-workers. The Sheriff’s Deputy was charged with felony corporal injury on a spouse and felony negligent discharge of a firearm in violation of California Penal Code sections 273.5 and 246.3

Our Strategy

We presented our own investigation to the DA's Office which ultimately resulted in our client remaining out of custody and to serving his sentence on house arrest.

The Result

NO JAIL TIME

Theft & White CollarTemecula

DA’s Office Ordered to Return $360,000 in Asset Forfeiture Case

The Challenge

Our clients faced asset forfeiture after authorities seized $360,000 linked to the sale of stolen goods. While they admitted the money came from stolen items, the DA’s Office attempted to keep the full amount.

Our Strategy

With collaboration between our clients and the victims, we successfully argued that the funds should be returned to their rightful owners. The judge ruled in our favor, ordering that a portion of the money be returned to the victims rather than retained by law enforcement.

The Result

ASSETS RETURNED

Media Coverage

The San Diego Union Tribune
DUIMurrieta

Felony DUI with Car Crash and Injury

The Challenge

A young adult was driving home her friends after drinking at a party. While speeding on a winding road, she lost control of her car and crashed. Her passengers suffered serious injuries and she was charged with felony DUI accident causing injury

Our Strategy

Through effective advocacy, we achieved probation and house arrest with only minimal custody time, avoiding significant prison time.

The Result

NO PRISON TIME

Legal Disclaimer (SB 37 Compliance): The case results listed above are representative of outcomes achieved by the Law Office of Nic Cocis. Every case is unique, and results depend upon the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Nothing on this page should be construed as a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.

Want Results Like These?

Contact Attorney Nic Cocis today for a free consultation about your case. Defending clients at the Southwest Justice Center since 1999.

(951) 400-4357Free Case Review