Skip to main content

Karen Lynn Goldstein

Federal crime Attorney at Los Angeles, CA

5.0   22 reviews

Licensed for 19 years

Virtual consultation available

Free consultation

About Karen

Learn Karen’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    Sex Crimes, Violent Crimes, Federal Crimes, Domestic Violence Crimes, Drug Crimes, Theft Crimes, White Collar Crimes, Third Strike Crimes, Internet Crimes, and DUI.

    20 years

  2. Federal crime
    50%
    Child pornography, White Collar, Conspiracy, Drug Sales and Distribution, Embezzlement, Fraud, Tax offenses, RICO, all Sexual Crimes,

    20 years

RECIPIENT OF TRIAL ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR 2020, JERRY GIESLER MEMORIAL AWARD BY CRIMINAL COURTS BAR ASSOCIATION (CCBA) IN LOS ANGELES. PERSISTENT, PASSIONATE, PRINCIPLED CRIMINAL DEFENSE. ALL STATE & FEDERAL CRIMES.

Persistent. Passionate. Principled.

Ms. Goldstein is an experienced trial lawyer who has been practicing in criminal defense since 2003. She is thrilled to be honored as the 2020 Recipient of Trial Attorney of the Year by the Criminal Courts Bar Association. Her practice is dedicated equally to defending state and federal criminal cases. Over the past fifteen years, she had gained extensive experience in representing clients accused of all types of crimes ranging from murder, child molestation, and white collar offenses, to gang-related crimes, rape, child pornography, and RICO cases. She has also developed a strong reputation in the community for fighting the most challenging of sex crimes cases and remaining undaunted in the face of overwhelming odds.

  • violent cimes
  • sex crimes
  • federal crimes 
  • white collar crimes
  • tax offenses
  • drug crimes
  • DUI
  • theft, fraud, embezzlement
  • domestic violence
  • internet offenses

Ms. Goldstein is currently a member of the Central Justice Act (CJA) conflict panel for the Central District of California and the Indigent Criminal Defense Appointment (ICDA) panel for Los Angeles County where she represents indigent clients in federal and state court. She graduated cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center and maga cum laude from Georgetown University.

Ms. Goldstein is a member of the State Bar of California and the Bar Association of the District of Columbia. She has been admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of California, as well as the Federal District Courts for the Central, Northern, Southern and Eastern Districts of California.

Ms. Goldstein speaks, reads, and writes French fluently and is conversational in Spanish.

Awards

Client's Choice 2014,2013,2012,2011
Client's Choice
2014 2013 2012 + 1 ...

Photos and videos

Licensed for 19 years
State NY
Status Currently Registered
Acquired 2020
Updated 11/17/2022
State DC
Status Good Standing
Acquired 2006
Updated 06/08/2022
State CA
Status Active
Acquired 2004
Updated 12/07/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Karen

Law Offices of Karen L. Goldstein
1645 N. Vine Street
Suite 306
Los Angeles, CA, 90028-8805

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  22 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Client's Choice 2014
Client's Choice
Karen received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2014
Posted by Andre | June 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredibly Knowledgeable and Easy to Work With
After speaking with multiple criminal defense attorneys, I knew that Karen was the attorney I needed to hire and move forward with. The reason why I knew she was the one was because she didn't mention money and/or payment right off the bat. Yes, criminal defense attorneys are VERY expensive, but you don't want to work with someone who is going to give you the cost before they try to sell their product to you. She listened to me, she was engaged in the story I was telling her, she was asking all the right questions. Given the very unfortunate circumstances of my case, Karen was able to explain to me how the proceedings would work from A to Z. She was always on time, responded to emails in a timely fashion, and knew exactly what we needed to do in order to win the case. We ended up hiring a private investigator that Karen had worked with in the past and she was just as amazing. With their diligence, we were able to obtain a case diversion with the prosecutor and eventually a complete dismissal without any record of it. I genuinely would recommend Karen for anyone facing a criminal defense charge. It was the best choice to hire her for my defense in the worst circumstance.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2014
Miracle Worker
Karen is a genius! I was facing a felony charge with a potential 3 year prison sentence and sexual registration. I felt hopeless and ashamed and I thought that all hope of a positive outcome was lost. Karen's professional demeanor, knowledge and experience gave me the peace of mind that I thought I'd never have. Through Karen’s hard work she was able to reduce my felony charge to 2 lower misdemeanors with no jail time, no sex offender registration and no community service! My sentence was ultimately reduced to 2 years of informal probation, which included therapy and 12 step meetings. I can speak from experience that facing prison as a result of a sexual related crime is nearly unbearable. Karen helped me to relax and think positivity about my situation and not to dwell on the negative emotions and thoughts that I was experiencing. She provided the peace of mind that is almost impossible to find in a time of need and was able to work out a deal with the DA that I never thought would be remotely possible. I HIGHLY recommend Karen L. Goldstein for any sexual related legal issue that one might have the misfortune of finding themselves in. She truly is Persistent, passionate and principled!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Lawyer
Ms. Goldstein was my lawyer for a serious federal case, which involved allegations of conspiracy and money laundering. At the end, I received no custody time. Ms. Goldstein went above and beyond not only because of the sentence she was able to get me- she was very emotionally supportive as well. She gave me reassurance and support to continue when I thought everything was hopeless. She fought hard for me and offered different solutions. She gave me 110% of her time and efforts. She treated me with respect and made me feel like a person and not a criminal. I am very grateful that for everything that Ms. Goldstein did.
Read less
Posted by Michelle | December 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Defense Attorney
Karen Goldstein is an exceptional defense attorney and my family is forever indebted to her. My father was wrongly accused of a child sex crime and Mrs. Goldstein took his very challenging case to trial and got him a hung jury. Mrs. Goldstein and Ms. Melissa Austen spent so much time on my Dad's case and they were diligent and relentless in his defense. Upon first meeting Mrs. Goldstein, I noted how smart, articulate, highly educated and experienced she is. Thank goodness we were referred to her by another defense attorney who knew that we needed Mrs. Goldstein (as she has a reputation for being able to handle the toughest cases). Mrs. Goldstein is an assertive, confident, strong and highly skilled attorney. Karen and Melissa, thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My experience with Karen Goldstein
I had a pretty difficult case and I came to latent o ha dale it she was very easy to work with and made the whole legal process very easy for me to not worry about it while I tended to my Dailey routine. She oukd attend the court hearings to the best of her ability and let me know what happend (which I loved). Karen is very experienced and knows how to deal with cases, she got me case dismissed and I couldn’t be more thrilled with my experience. I HIGHLY recommend Karen if you need a attorney for any legal issues!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | March 14, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible
Miss Goldstein was able to help in ways I can not describe. I was facing Jail and registration. Both of which would have ruined my life. She was able to get my charges reduced to a misdemeanor with community service. If you are indeed facing a sexual offense crime, The Law offices Of Karen L Goldstein is absolutely the firm to hire.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | December 3, 2014
Great Attorney. Highly recommend
She was very responsive. Made feel she was always on my side. Knowledgable with my case and what would happen next. RA
Posted by anonymous | November 19, 2014
Great DUI Lawyer
I was very pleased with Ms. Goldstein's work in my case. Having never needed an attorney before, I didn't know what to expect. Ms. Goldstein made herself available for any questions or concerns I had, and took the time to make sure I understood everything involved. She's proactive and fierce and completely dedicated to her clients. Highly recommended.
Read less
Posted by lex | March 7, 2014
Provided excellent legal counsel
I hired Karen Lynn Goldstein to provide her legal expertise on extremely sensitive and serious federal case. Her professionalism, grit, and dedication to fighting for the best possible outcome eased some of the stresses of dealing with my case. In the end her research and collboration with recognized experts help secure a lower sentence than recommended by the government. I recommend Karen Lynn Goldstein as a defense Lawyer for anyone facing a felony.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2014
Saved my career and helped cut down my charge
I would recommend karen to everyone what an amazing lawyer she was able to get my second charge of wet reckless dropped and I only 3 months of classes when I should have gotten 9 months!!
Posted by Vanessa | August 16, 2013
Karen Goldstein is the most professional, knowledgeable, and qualified attorney I ever came across
Karen Goldstein is the most professional, knowledgeable, and qualified attorney I ever came across. She was very helpful from the first free consultation through out the end of the case. She responded to my emails promptly. She was able to clarify all my doubts and concerns regarding the case all the time. I was very impressed about her familiarity with the Van Nuys court. Karen Goldstein is a well respected attorney who can be trusted and really cares for her clients.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | January 18, 2013
Karen Goldstein is a very capable client advocate.
Karen Goldstein was impeccable from start to finish. She was not only a qualified, informed and seasoned representative, she was also an advocate on my behalf. She went above and beyond to obtain information to help my cause and the end result was much more favorable than I could have imagined. I remain very grateful for the outcome of my case and I owe that to Karen Goldstein. Her research, preparation and true concern for my well being were evident throughout the process. She is a very dynamic, fair, compassionate and very capable attorney, and it was obvious she was very well respected by all those who she came in contact with during my case, especially the judge. I would without question recommend her services and I encourage anyone facing anxiety and fear over a pending legal issue to retain her services. She truly represents her clients throughout the entire legal process and even continues to check in with them thereafter. I was truly fortunate to have her representation.
Read less
Posted by Lee | January 17, 2013
Serious Charges need a Serious Attorney, Karen was by Far the Best Choice.
Charged with a serious sex crime and risked losing my family, friends and career, I had to look for a qualified attorney. After disappointing results and waisted meetings with other lawyers I finally met with Karen who from the start gave me hope and looked past my finances and seen the person. She was unlike the others who were only asking about my financial situation first and than wanted to hear the story. She possessed a tenacity that is unmatched and was exactly what I needed to proceed..."Confident, Knowledgable and Experienced!" The felony charges were reduced to a misdeamenor which resulted in minimal 15 day sentence and counseling. I recommend her to anyone in need of help at anytime. Karen is definitely QUALIFIED!
Read less
Posted by L.B. | January 15, 2013
Heartfelt Thank You Karen! Out of many, you were by far the best choice.
I was recently charged with a serious sex offence and risked losing everything, family, job ,friends, etc. Karen was tenacious in her efforts to help me out of my situation. I have never been in any trouble in all my life and she recognized that and diligently, professionally and most efficiently guided me to the best resolution possible. I know how scary this whole process can be but after my first meet with Karen, I knew she was the best decision after speaking with others that only gave me bad news and no hope. Thank you Karen for actually caring enough to look past the money and seeing the person.
Read less
Posted by KR | January 15, 2013
Got my DUI reduced!
Karen L. Goldstein is a passionate, determined and dedicated attorney that will fight for you to get the best result from your case. In my case, she was able to get my DUI reduced and I am so thankful for all of the hard work and effort that she put into my case. She made sure that I understood all of the laws involved, as well as continually kept me updated through the process. She helped take the stress and pressure out of the whole process and I would recommend her to anyone!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | January 3, 2013
Looking for a highly professional legal assistance with the best outcome? Karen Goldstein is your only choice.
If you have violated the law and are facing court procedures, don’t hesitate even a second to contact Karen Lynn Goldstein. This is the one and only lawyer you are looking for. Motivated, committed, aggressive and passionate, she is fighting for every single case like it is the most important one. Right from the first interview this highly professional and knowledgeable lawyer creates a certain atmosphere, where the client feels so comfortable sharing his/her fears and concerns. One great thing about Karen Goldstein’s working style is that while communicating with her clients, she treats them not as criminals but rather as individuals, personalities, who though have acted wrongfully, violated the law but still are ordinary human beings, experiencing hard times and seeking help. She renders this help brilliantly, successfully handling and winning even the most complicated cases. Karen Goldstein has been by my side through the entire process connected with the worst period of my life and made it a lot easy. Right from the first minutes in the court I noticed the Judge’s and the DA’s great respect towards my lawyer, and it made me so self-confident. She did everything to make the entire trial process as non-invasive for me as possible and achieved the best outcome I could expect. And recently my case was successfully expunged after Goldstein’s another great job. Thank you so much, Karen. You are the best! You saved my future, you returned me to my previous safe, quiet and honest life, where there is no place for even the slightest wrongdoing. Again, if you are in trouble with the law, Karen Goldstein is your only choice.
Read less
Posted by Joe | August 16, 2012
Oustanding and Professional Representation
Luck was on my side the day I called Ms. Goldstein for representation in a serious criminal matter. Having never been in legal trouble before, I was at a complete loss as to how I would even choose a lawyer. I began searching for criminal defense lawyers on the internet and one of the first names I happened upon was hers. Her website said she was "Pricinpled and Compassionate" and after my first conversation with her I knew it was true. Lets start with compassionate. The period between securing her representation and my actual appearances in court was one of the most trying times in my life. I was a nervous wreck. Anxiety was always present...but so was Karen. Although I knew she had many clients I felt like I was the only one. No call went unanswered. No email neglected. She was ALWAYS there for me to answer every question and concern no matter how trivial. She even took the time to consult with my parents rearding their concerns. While I expected great service I had not expected this and without it I dont know how I would have gotten through it. Now to principled. Karen seems to truly believe in the principle that every defendant deserves the best representation possible. Based on the charges against me I was worried about whether I would get anyones "A" game. Karen alleviated those concerns and showed me that she only brings her "A" game. I never had a doubt she would do her best to get me the most favorable outcome possible. And now to the results. From the beginning I was unwilling to go to trial so the goal was to ge the best deal possible. The one result I would not accept was to serve time in prison. And thanks to Karen I didn't serve a day. The prosecution was asking for 180 days and she worked with the court to secure a deal for probation. She fought for and got me the best outcome possible. So if you are in a legal jam and are looking for oustanding representation from a compassionate, friendly, and responsive attourney, look no further.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | October 3, 2011
Amazing, outstanding, honest, nonjudgemental, sharp lawyer
Super appreciative for all of Karen Goldstein's work. She is hardworking, nonjudgemental, informed, and compassionate. Highly recommended!
Posted by Bill | June 9, 2011
Smart, Honest, and Knows Here Buisness
I hired karen off of a review from Handle On The Law. In speaking with her the first time, she listened, asked questions, and set a time when she could pull my case file to review it. Only at that point would she sit down to talk the details of the case. Once we did meet, Karen verified the details of the case, and clearly told me what she and I had discussed as the out come that I was looking for. From the intial time we met, and a few calls exchanged. Karen had a court date set. In court, working with both a different DA and Judge. She laid out to me as we had spoke, of what she was going to say, and since she knew the court system so very well. She brought with her an extra copy of the motion she was filing on my behalf, to present to the DA because she said, they unsually never have it. She was correct. Presenting the motion to the DA, she stuck to the facts, and the end she was looking for. Hearing her present my case and answering the DA questions, and soon enough the Judges questions. Each time she answered, both her tone and answer where clear, I thought that sincerity gained the positive strength to what she was talking about which did inturn reflected positive towards me. I had some serious issues with this situation that I had gotten myself into. The facts really could have gone against me, and hung over me for the rest of my life. Only due to Karen's efforts, knowledge of law, skillful speaking abilities, and just being prepaired got me the outcome that I had so long been hoping for. Besides my thinking if she had handled my case from the beginning. I would never have been in the position I ended up in. In the end, Karen does listen to you, explain everything in detail to you, and best of all, She is the one that goes to court with you. She does not send out an associate or some other lesser exprienced person. Just Karen When you hire Karen. Please know that her skill's, abilities, and desire to get the out come you are looking for is exactly what you get. One fantastic lawyer. Look no further. Just hire her. You will be glad.
Read less
Posted by Jonathan L. | February 22, 2011
Amazing Attorney
Karen is the complete package. She is so knowledgeable and relentless in her defense. I knew from the first moment i met her i was in good hands and the results of my case confirmed my intuition.
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • CJA Conflict Federal Panel Attorney
  • United States Central District of California
  • 2013 - Present
  • Partner
  • White Goldstein
  • 2008 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Partner
  • Law Offices of Karen L. Goldstein
  • 2006 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Attorney
  • Indigent Criminal Defense Appointment Panel (ICDA)
  • 2006 - Present
View all work experience

Education

  • Georgetown University Law Center
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2003
  • Georgetown University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1999

Legal Cases

  • People v. Michael Fenton MA056050
  • Acquittal on all charges after jury trial
  • People v. Mirna Marin
  • Acquittal after jury trial

Associations

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
  • Sustaining Attorney Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Association of Federal Defense Attorneys
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • DUI Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Los Angeles County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2000 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • French
  • Spanish
  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Trial Attorney of the Year, Jerry Giesler Memorial Award
  • Criminal Courts Bar Association Los Angeles
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer in Criminal Defense, Southern California
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Rising Star in Criminal Defense
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Rising Star in Criminal Defense
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Rising Star in Criminal Defense
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney under 40 in California
  • National Academy of Defense Attorneys
  • 2014
  • Rising Star in Criminal Defense
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers under 40 in CA
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2013
  • Rising Star in Criminal Defense
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyers Rising Star 2012
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2012
  • Cum Laude
  • Georgetown University Law Center
  • 2003
  • Magna Cum Laude
  • Georgetown University
  • 1999
  • Phi Beta Kappa
  • Phi Beta Kappa
  • 1999
View all awards

Publications

  • Strategies for Defending Sex Crimes
  • The Modern Day Scarlet Letter: Defending People Accused of Sex Crimes
  • 2014
  • Georgetown Journal of Gender and the Law
  • Assisted Reproductive Technology
  • 2003

Speaking Engagements

  • Defending the Unthinkable Zealous Advocacy in Sex efense Cases
  • Wielding Experts as a Sword: “Out-Experting” the Prosecution
  • 2018
  • Defending Drug Crimes
  • Dismantling the Death Star: Mitigation & Litigation in RICO Drug Case
  • 2017
  • Indigent Criminal Defense Appointment Panel Winter Seminar
  • Sex Crimes Defense
  • 2014
  • Fiddler Institute of Criminal Justice
  • Sex Crimes Defense
  • 2014
  • Money 101 with Bob McCormick
  • DUI Laws in California
  • 2012
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (22)
Given (12)
Endorse Karen
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Karen is one of the most intelligent, hardworking, and professional attorneys working in Los Angeles. She is extremely detail-oriented and truly cares about her clients. I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"A highly skilled, experienced and effective attorney. Karen is a detail-oriented and relentless advocate who cares about her clients and the results she achieves. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Karen is one of the sharpest, most intelligent attorneys in the legal community. Karen is the paradigm of beauty and brains, and she has over TEN years of experience in criminal defense. She is tough as nails and gets consistent miracles for her clients. Her clients are extremely lucky to have her. I wholeheartedly endorse Karen."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Karen is a great criminal defense attorney! I recommend her highly! =)"
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Karen and I were co-counsel on a large and complicated federal case. I was extremely impressed with Karen's knowledge of the law, her ability to understand and absorb the facts and her written and oral advocacy. She is an excellent, ethical lawyer and I wholeheartedly endorse her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Karen Goldstein as a higly capable and dedicated criminal defense attorney and in particular recommend her for Federal as well as cases involving allegations of sex offenses, two areas in which she has distinguished herself."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Karen is dedicated attorney who works hard for her clients. She is a true advocate."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Karen is tenacious, aggressive, and a masterful writer and litigant. She cares deeply for her clients and achieves phenomenal results. Her clients are lucky to have her by their side."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Her skill in representing clients, her comprehensive legal knowledge, and her attention to detail are unsurpassed."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer with complete confidence. Karen is simply amazing. She is phenomenal in court as a litigator and a relentless motion writer, which is a scarce commodity. Karen knows the law, knows the procedure and knows how to handle herself in a courtroom. We have worked on serious felony cases together and I was thoroughly impressed. With Karen there is never a stone left unturned."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Family member
"I have had a chance to watch Karen in action and she brings a high level of professionalism and experience to the courtroom."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Karen Goldstein has earned a reputation as being one of LA's most successful criminal defense attorneys. Her educational background and extensive trial court experience enable her to be a zealous advocate for her clients. Karen's knowledge of the law is unparalleled by the competition."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense