Shaka M Johnson

Shaka M Johnson

4.8
Rating: 4.6

Licensed for 16 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Philadelphia, PA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Federal Crime, Unknown

1420 Walnut Street, 806, Philadelphia, PA

About Shaka

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in New Jersey for 16 years

State: New Jersey

Acquired: 2009

Active

Licensed in Pennsylvania for 16 years

State: Pennsylvania

Acquired: 2009

Active

Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2025

Location

The Law Offices of Shaka Johnson, LLC

1420 Walnut Street, 806, Philadelphia, PA, 19102

Delaware County Office

215 North Olive Street, Suite 101, Media, PA, 19063

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Shaka M Johnson's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

34 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (34) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 6 - 10 of 12 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by Ellen H. | November 02, 2018 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Best around!

Mr. Johnson went above and beyond to make sure my reputation remained in tact and that I faced the least possible charge. I was represented better than I could have ever imagined. My concerns were listened to. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My nerves were calmed even wh...en walking into the courtroom and the process was always explained thoroughly in ways I understood. Mr. Johnson fought hard for me. He went above and beyond and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. He even told me what to expect after the case was over. I was so scared about this DUI and how my day to day would be affected. I couldn't have asked for a better law firm or attorney. Thanks again!!

Posted by Karen | September 18, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Shaka Johnson is truly the best criminal lawyer in Philadelphia

Our son was in a criminal situation. He was facing a very high bail and major criminal charges and was falsely accused. We trusted him from the first consultation and we strongly believed that he would get us justice. It was thru his professionalism and swagger that he was able to minuaver thru the r...ed tape and Baracaci of the unfairness of the commonwealth. He was able to see thru all the lies and render a not guilty verdict of all charges. If you want a hard working and successful lawyer that has a passion for his clients and truly mean business that would be Shaka Johnson aka The Godfather of the law. We would truly recommend him to anyone and everyone that is in need of the best lawyer in Philadelphia.

Posted by Dionne | January 29, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

CASE DISMISSED

I was referred to Shaka by a good friend. One word "BEAST". This man don't play games when it comes to the court room. He's sharp as a knife, knows his stuff & his mouth piece is vicious!!! All around good dude. When I sat down with him, I couldn't believe a lawyer could be that cool. I was tripping ...thinking I was getting roofed & Shaka's exact words to me was "chill, I do this". He gave it to me straight, didn't try to kill my pockets & even made arrangements for me to pay based on my schedule. We went to court 2 times & Shaka knocked that case right out the park. Needless to say, while still in the preliminary, my Case was DISMISSED!

Posted by anonymous | July 15, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Gun Law

One of the BEST lawyers in Philadelphia !

Shaka was actually referred by a friend. I hired him to represent my brother for a gun charge (which we're currently still fighting). And he is actually currently on parole for prior gun charges. Before meeting with Shaka, I already heard so many great things about him, but let me tell you once I sat... down with him and I seen his whole outlook on what he does and his demeanor, I felt completely confident about hiring him. He talks in a manner you'll understand and he tells you the just of things honestly, wether they be good or bad. He makes you feel comfortable to talk about anything. He's very professional but also rational when it comes to his cases. When we just attended the preliminary hearing, he fought like we were already in trial ! Everyone was stunned by his performance ! Even the families of other people waiting to be called were gasping in the background. When we left the court room he had multiple people coming up to him asking for business cards. This man is the truth ! I was absolutely astonished at his work ! He is very aggressive in the court room when getting his point and all the facts across. He's very passionate about what he does and it shows ! He honestly made the prosecutor and judge silent after speaking. It's also a BIG PLUS that he was an ex police officer, S.W.A.T. team member, Narcotics Officer, & a member of the district attorney's office. He has major things under his belt ! So he knows how people in those positions work so he has a relatable understanding while handling his cases. I'm so Glad I hired him & am thankful for his work and expertise even if he doesn't beat the case at trial. I'll know he tried his complete best and that's what counts. HIRE SHAKA IF YOU WANT RESULTS !

Posted by Lois | March 02, 2015 | Criminal Defense

"Mr. Make a lil somethin outta nothin"

I fired my previous attorney and retained Mr. Johnson all within a weeks time. The first time that I spoke with him was on a Sunday and he called from his office (signs of great work ethic). Once we met and discussed the matter, I left his office feeling confident of both his skill and knowledge. Thi...s is what we call a "SHARK" People!.. A "Hungry lawyer that will eat da case" He goes hard for his clients and makes them and their families feel like a priority. Unlike other lawyers who take your money, talk to you any kind of way (WHEN they do decide to take your calls) and offer no assurance of even beating your case. Shaka is taking Jail calls, making official visits and offers fair prices! If you can't afford an attorney then you shouldn't be doing sh!t to need one. I'm writing this from the comfort of my home b/c he kept me and hundreds of folks out of jail. SALUTE TO THAT MAN and PHUCK A HATER! Esp the ones who bread wasn't right. Thats the only time a lawyer don't get back w/u or show up to your hearings... i mean, if u can't pay 'round here then stay from 'round here. Bottome line. If THIS review is not enough then check Twitter or instagram and see what they have to say on there.. they keep his name up and down the timelines, talkin bout how he got Johnny Cochrane stats and got them and/or their folks off... Hire Shaka!!

See All Client Reviews

Shaka M Johnson's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Shaka
Stephen Dean Stewart headshot
Stephen Stewart

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 23

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"We worked together on co-defendant matter and I have been in court with Mr. Johnson on numerous occasions. He has a deep understanding of the law and advocates for his clients best interests always."

Joseph Peter Stampone headshot
Joseph Stampone

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I could not give a higher endorsement for a criminal defense attorney than Shaka. Aside from being a highly skilled attorney, Shaka truly cares about his clients. He has always gone above and beyond for any client I have referred him. He is well respected in the legal community and never disappoints."

Prince Paris Amor Holloway headshot
Prince Holloway

Criminal defense lawyer | May 31

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have known Shaka from the beginning of his legal career. We were on opposite sides of the aisle and he has been nothing short of professional. Shaka is a stellar attorney and staunch advocate for his clients. He has an amazing grasp of legal concepts and real world application. I have referred numerous friends and clients to Shaka for his assistance, and every time they have had glowing reviews of his representation."

Kevin P O'Brien headshot
Kevin O'Brien

Criminal defense lawyer | May 30

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Shaka Johnson for several years during which time I have referred him clients in need of a top-shelf criminal attorney. Having spoken to these clients, and having witnessed him try high-stakes cases in court to a jury, I can wholeheartedly endorse him as an one of the best attorneys I have met. If you or one of your clients has been charged with a crime and their freedom is at stake, I would highly recommend you meet with Shaka."

Robin Colley Pitt headshot
Robin Pitt

Criminal defense lawyer | May 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Shaka is a zealous advocate who fights hard for his clients."

William Ryan McLaughlin headshot
William McLaughlin

Unknown lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If I were in trouble, I'd want Shaka Johnson on my side - he has the experience and skills to get results."

View All Endorsements
Philip David Press headshot
Philip Press

Unknown lawyer

William Ryan McLaughlin headshot
William McLaughlin

Civil rights lawyer

Robin Colley Pitt headshot
Robin Pitt

Unknown lawyer

Jessica Consuela Mann headshot
Jessica Mann

Family lawyer

Prince Paris Amor Holloway headshot
Prince Holloway

Personal injury lawyer

Joseph Peter Stampone headshot
Joseph Stampone

Personal injury lawyer

Kevin V. Mincey headshot
Kevin Mincey

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  4.6 (Concern)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2025.

Public Reprimand issued in PA, 2025

updated on 09/02/2025

Public reprimand means an attorney did something wrong but may still practice law. The State gives the lawyer a public reprimand in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior. Details of the infraction are made part of the public record.

Public Reprimand issued in PA, 2016

updated on 10/12/2017

Public reprimand means an attorney did something wrong but may still practice law. The State gives the lawyer a public reprimand in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior. Details of the infraction are made part of the public record.

Honors

2016

Outstanding Service Award, NAACP Real Street Talk Institution

2015

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Community Service Award, Bible Way Baptist Church

2015

10 Best, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

2014

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

Work Experience

2009 - Present

Principal/Owner, Law Offices of Shaka Johnson, LLC

2008 - 2008

Assistant District Attorney, Philadelphia District Attorneys

2007 - 2007

Certified Legal Intern, Philadelphia District Attorneys

2006 - 2006

Legal Intern--Special Projects, Fulton County District Attorney's Office

2006 - 2008

Law Clerk, Zeller & Bryant, LLP

2005 - 2006

Legal Intern--Special Projects, Axam & Adams Law Firm

2000 - 2004

Narcotics Detective--Special Operations Divison, Fulton County Police Department

1997 - 2000

Certified Uniformed Police Officer, Futon County Police Department

Associations

2012 - Present

Real Street Talk

Board Member

2009 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Association

Member

Education

2009

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

MS - Master of Science

2008

Rutgers University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

Speaking Engagements

2017

Good Morning Philadelphia

Guest Legal Expert

2015

Bi-Weekly Radio Host

House Attorney

Languages

Spanish

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline
    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2025
    Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution