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Silva Laura Megerditchian
also known as SLM Law
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About Silva
Biography
As a former Deputy Public Defender, there is very little Ms. Megerditchian has not seen in the criminal defense world. She has handled thousands of cases relating to criminal defense, juvenile defense, DUI and domestic violence. From countless trials and hearings--she has literally done it all. Knowledge, experience, compassion and skill are all words that best describe Ms. Megerditchian as a lawyer and person. Ms. Megerditchian thrives on treating each client with respect and giving them the individual attention they deserve. Skilled in adult and juvenile criminal defense, she helps her clients get through some of the most stressful experiences in their lives by giving them the power to get back on their feet and get control of their case! Her experience has also lead her to be a trusted Court TV and Law And Crime legal commentator. Because of her vast experience and knowledge, she has also been quoted in countless national news organizations including , CBS News, ABC news, NBC news and Fox News,
Silva Megerditchian is a skilled attorney who formed and is President of SLM Law, APC. After Silva graduated from law school, she briefly worked for a private firm where she handled criminal matters, both state and federal, and civil litigation where she handled divorce and personal injury law. Prior to founding SLM Law, APC, she was a civil servant representing indigent clients who could not afford an attorney. She served the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office for over 7 years and represented thousands of clients in virtually every aspect of criminal and juvenile law--from infractions to misdemeanors and felonies. Silva won recognition for her tireless representation of minors and won many cases for children who were thrusted into a criminal justice system they were fearful of--getting their cases dismissed and their records clean. She has won countless cases and earned hundreds of dismissals for her juvenile and adult clients alike. Prior to entering the Public Defender’s Office, Silva also worked for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, where she clerked and assisted in prosecuting countless criminal offenses, including high profile white collar crime cases. She handled various types of hearings in virtually every aspect of criminal law. It was this experience working with the LA District Attorney's office where she realized the importance and need of representing Americans charged in the criminal justice system. Her passion in protecting her clients fueled her success--It also led to a thriving and successful personal injury practice where getting her clients paid for their hurt and pain has led to huge pay outs.
Prior to her successful law career, Silva was a prominent Producer for a nationally syndicated radio talk show. She won praise and accolades for her work and achievements as a producer, and dealt with many aspects of the entertainment and political worlds, including dealing with high profile celebrities and elite political players. A dynamic individual, Silva not only excelled in a male driven environment, but managed to balance her demanding work schedule with an equally demanding law school curriculum. From being an on-air commentator to a behind the scenes producer and manager, Silva had made herself a reputation of a hard worker with a keen ability to make last minute decisions that benefited the program with high ratings and countless advertisers which benefited corporate interests.
While in law school, Silva also excelled in the prestigious Moot Court program where she competed in advocacy competitions all over the United States. She continues to mentor youth in their quest to become successful advocates and trial attorneys by donating her time and knowledge to the program.
Silva has an international background as well. She is fluent in the Armenian language and conversational Spanish. She was born to a Syrian Armenian mother and a Lebanese Armenian father and studied abroad. Her immigrant parents taught her the importance of working hard and striving for the American Dream.
In addition to her law practice, Silva is a skilled violinist and passionate about athletics. She was a certified personal trainer for years. Silva’s goals are simple: to provide her clients personal and warm representation during her clients’ darkest hours; and to provide her clients the best legal defense while protecting them from the powerful and overwhelming prosecutorial arm of the government.
“I provide our clients support, dedication and knowledge in criminal defense matters and am dedicated to assisting those in their darkest hour of their lives, facing the possibility of losing their freedom, family and assets. With personal support and strong advocacy I will always fight for our clients’ freedom.”
You Are Not Alone. We will guide you, and fight relentlessly for your case. Call today for a free consult.
You Are Not Alone. We will guide you, and fight relentlessly for your freedom. Free consult.
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
30%
19 years
Sex Crime
25%
19 years
Violent Crime
25%
19 years
DUI and DWI
10%
19 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2025 2024 2023
...
+
5
Licenses
Licensed in California for 18 years
State: California
Acquired: 2007
No misconduct found
Location
Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Silva online.
Silva Laura Megerditchian's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 79 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | December 30, 2025 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Outstanding Representation and Genuine Care
Attorney Silva was an absolute blessing during one of the most stressful moments of my life. From the very beginning, she was honest, knowledgeable, and incredibly thorough. She took the time to explain every step of my domestic violence case in a way that was clear and easy to understand, making sur...
Posted by Sara | December 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Exceptional Attorney with Heart and Expertise
Working with Silva Megerditchian has been an absolute blessing. From the very first conversation, she demonstrated a level of compassion, expertise, and dedication that instantly put me at ease. Silva doesn’t just practice law—she advocates with heart, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to her cl...
Posted by Mayra | November 3, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hire her!
She represented my son perfectly. Amazing lawyer, great communication and knew exactly what she was doing.
Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
The Strong Willed Silva!
Silva was extremely communicative throughout our entire proceeding. She was also extremely determinate on receiving the base option for our case and achieved it with ease. God Bless her and all she has worked for!
Posted by Juliet | October 21, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
I cannot recommend Silva enough! She is an angel!!!
Silva is a life-saver! She literally is the best choice to help deal with LA court system!
Silva Laura Megerditchian's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer. Silva is a very knowledgeable, compassionate, and skilled lawyer. She is well respected by lawyers and judges throughout the legal community."
"Silva is my go to person for criminal defense. I have referred people to her and they are always happy that I did. One person was worried about losing his job after he was charged with pulling out a knife in a fight over a parking space. Not only is she very knowledgeable, she is compassionate and very skilled. She is also great with kids who get in trouble with the law. I would trust her with my family. She has lots of experience and is a skilled trial lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I’ve known Silva for years and have the utmost respect for her skills as a criminal defense attorney. She is a very experienced, kind, caring, and fierce advocate for her clients. I’d recommend Silva wholeheartedly and without reservation."
"I have referred Silva to several clients, who have come back to thank me for how hard Silva works and cares about their case."
"I worked with Silva when I was a prosecutor. Silva truly cares about her clients and will go the extra mile that many attorneys will not. She is able to strongly advocate for the clients while still maintaining the respect of judges and fellow attorneys. I endorse her without reservation."
"Years ago, while working alongside Silva at the Public Defender's Office, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand what a caring and hard working advocate she is. Any client who is fortunate enough to have Ms. Megerditchian on their team is in great hands."
"I endorse this lawyer. Silva is a saint and will go the distance for her her clients. She is a warrior in court and a super well rounded lawyer. I would hire her as my lawyer if I ever needed one. That's how much I trust her."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Silva Megerditchian is very experienced in criminal defense and fights hard for her clients, and I gladly endorse her."
"I endorse this lawyer wholeheartedly! Silva has years of criminal defense experience behind her as a public defender. She is really good at connecting with each client and understanding their individual concerns in the way that only a solo practitioner can. If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney, do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation with Silva."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Silva is a fantastic attorney. When I was a District Attorney I observed her own the courtroom and deal with her cases professionally and effectively. She gets along well with her peers and most importantly gets results for her clients. She has handled every situation in the book. You cannot go wrong with Silva as your attorney."
"Having known Silva both professionally and personally for well over a decade, I strongly endorse and recommend her for your legal needs. Her passion and deep dedication to her clients is unparalleled!"
"I have known Silva for over 7 years. She is passionate about her job and her clients. Her reputation in the legal community is top notch."
"I confidently endorse this lawyer. Silva is an extremely intelligent , honest, and passionate person. These are qualities which translate to an excellent defense attorney. In addition, Silva is a fierce advocate who will fight for you and never back down."
"Silva's vast experience speaks for itself. It's her warmth and compassion that sets her apart from other lawyers out there. She will never talk over or below you. Her rare amount of empathy and vast skill make her an excellent choice!"
"Silva is my go to lawyer for brainstorming a case, specially Juvenile cases. She is generous with her knowledge and is a passionate lawyer and a zealous advocate. She wholeheartedly fights for the rights of her clients."
"Ms. Mergerditchian is an excellent criminal defense attorney. Whether it's a juvenile, misdemeanor or felony case, Ms. Megerditchian will passionately defended her client's rights and any client would be lucky to have her as their attorney."
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
SuperLawyer, SuperLawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
SuperLawyer, SuperLawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
SuperLawyer, SuperLawyers
2017
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2017
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2017
10 Year Anniversary, Martindale-Hubbell
2016
Top 100 Criminal Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2016
Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
2016
Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2015
Client Satisfaction, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2015
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2014
Certificate of Recognition - Los Padrinos Juvenile Court, State Of California Senate
2014
Recognition-Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, California State Assembly
2006
Oralist, Southwestern University of Law
2006
Moot Court Honors Program, Southwestern Law School
2005
Certificate of International Legal Studies, University of London
Work Experience
2015 - Present
Owner / Attorney, SLM Law
2008 - 2015
Attorney, Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office
2007 - 2008
Senior Law Clerk, Public Integrity Unit, Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office
2006 - 2006
Certified Law Clerk, Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office
1995 - 2003
Producer, Clear Channel Entertainment/Premiere Radio Networks
Associations
2015 - Present
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
2007 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaAttorney
2015 - 2017
Women Lawyers Association of Los AngelesMember
2015 - 2016
National Association of Professional WomenMember
Sample of Legal Cases
People v. Francis
Case Dismissed
People v. Minor
DISMISSED
PEOPLE V. MINOR
DISMISSED
PEOPLE V. MR. G
NOT GUILTY
Education
2007
Southwestern University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1996
California State University, Northridge
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2015
ICDA
The Beginners Guide To Juvenile Defense
2014
Southwestern Law School Alumni Association
“Off the Record with Criminal Defense Attorneys and Prosecutors in a Government Setting”
2014
Keeping it Real
What to do when you are in trouble with the law
Publications
2024
2019
2019
2019
2019
2019
2018
SilvaLegal.com Blog
When Your Child Is Arrested for A Sex Crime
2018
SilvaLegal.com Blog
When Your Child is Arrested: Know Their Rights
2018
SilvaLegal.com Blog
No Contest vs. Guilty: What’s the Difference?
2018
SilvaLegal.com Blog
The New Norm: Monitoring Your Child’s Social Media
2018
SilvaLegal.com Blog
What To Do When Your Child Is Bullied
2017
Silvalegal.com News
What Parents Should know If their Child is Arrested
2017
Silvalegal.com News
Let The Children Know...Never talk to Cops if Arrested.
2017
Barry Goldberg Website Blog
When Criminal Defense Cases and Personal Injury Cases Collide
2016
Silvalegal.com News
New and Much Needed Perspective In Defending The Mentally Ill
Languages
English
Armenian
Spanish
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides