Michael Aaron Goldstein

Criminal defense Attorney at Los Angeles, CA

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Mrs. Ferrando

Michael Goldstein is by far the best lawyer i’ve ever had the pleasure to meet and beyond grateful he is representing my husband. He was initially charged with 2 counts of premeditated attempted murder. Mr. Goldstein worked magic and allowed my husband the opportunity to obtain a plea bargain that included dismissing the more serious charges and entering a plea to one count of assault with a firearm, a non-violent offense which enabled him to serve only 50% time. Our time with Mr. Goldstein was all around a 10/10. From the beginning to the end. Every encounter with Mr. Goldstein calmed any nerves we had. He personally met with us and appeared at every single court hearing (most other lawyers send their not so inclined nor convincing representatives) and also personally visited the jail on multiple occasions to speak with and confirm the safety of my husband. If you are in need of help you must reach out to Mr. Goldstein, it will not be a waste of money or your time. My respect and gratefulness is beyond words.

Professional at his best

Mr. Goldstein was such a key component in handling my case. he made my experience stressless. Mr. Goldstein was diligent a communicated with me consistently never leaving me in the dark. By the end, my case was dismissed and I have Mr. Goldstein to thank for that. His personality is charismatic and compassionate, he understands the stress the courts can put on someone, Without his help, I would have crumbled with unnecessary anxiety, he handled the majority of the leg work and I'm so grateful he was there for me...Thank you

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

60%

Since 1975, our practice has been limited to defending those who are either under investigation or have been charged with the commission of a criminal offense. We handle cases ranging from DUI's to Murder to Complex Narcotic and Conspiracy matters. Michael is licensed to practice law in all State and Federal Courts of California. Additionally, Michael A. Goldstein has represented clients in Arizona, Hawaii, Texas, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, Mississippi, and Wisconsin.
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27 years, 2,500 cases
DUI and DWI

10%

Our Los Angeles DUI attorneys has decades of experiences and track record of success against any type of driving under the influence charges. In one recent case in Glendale Superior Court, our client was charges in a marijuana DUI case. Our law firm was able to negotiate a favorable outcome to have the charges dismissed.
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27 years, 2,500 cases
Domestic violence

10%

Our law firm has been successfully defending clients against domestic violence charges for decades. In one recent case in Los Angeles Superior Court, our client, a registered nurse, was was charged with assaulting her husband in the presence of her two children. After negotiation, all the charges were dismissed on the day of trial.
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27 years, 2,000 cases
Federal crime

10%

Our Los Angeles federal criminal defense lawyers have a history of success in all United States Central District of California Courts. We handle any type of federal crime charges, including sex crimes, healthcare fraud, wire and mail fraud, drug crimes, fraud crimes, RICO charges, white collar crimes, internet crimes.
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27 years, 500 cases
Sex crime

10%

Our Los Angeles sex crime attorneys have a track record of success against any type of sexual related crime, including child pornography, child molestation, rape, statutory rape, indecent exposure, solicitation of prostitution, sexual battery.
... Read more
27 years, 500 cases

Top-Rated Los Angeles Criminal Attorney with 22 Years Expereince. Client's Choice Winner 2014.

Michael A. Goldstein was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1996 and is admitted to the Central and Southern Districts of the United States District Court. Michael represents clients charged in both State and Federal Courts and has represented the interests of clients in State or Federal cases pending in California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington, Nebraska and other jurisdictions.

Michael served as the 2014 president of the Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association and currently sits on the Board of Directors.

Michael has secured 4 consecutive not guilty verdicts. The last two juries found Michael’s client not guilty in 27 minutes and 50 minutes. The first of these significant victories involved an 8-week, 42 defendant complex insurance fraud case tried before the Honorable Lance Ito.

Michael is currently part of a team of lawyers in the UK defending an American clothing designer facing serious criminal charges. In another international case, Michael put together the defense team for a client arrested in Oslo, Norway. Michael collaborated with the defense team litigating issues under the US-Norwegian extradition treaty to prevent the extradition of our client back to the United States on Racketeering & Gaming charges. That matter was ultimately argued before the Norwegian Supreme Court in June 2014.

Michael has handled more than 1500 felony and misdemeanor criminal matters ranging from major narcotics cases, assault cases, DUI’s, homicide cases as well as complex fraud or regulatory matters for corporate clients. Michael has represented musicians, doctors, lawyers, athletes, entertainment executives, career criminals, and foreign nationals. Michael’s creative work on behalf of musicians and/or athletes has made it possible for them to tour and/or work internationally.

Michael has carved out a niche representing individuals with substance abuse and/or mental health issues. Where necessary, Michael relies on the assistance of intervention specialists and drug counselors to secure confidential and professional help for clients. Michael is an advocate of alternative sentencing and his network of experts provide his clients with the best chance to avoid incarceration. Michael has represented doctors, lawyers and other licensed professionals in criminal matters.

Michael currently sits on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association and is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Los Angeles County Bar Association, San Fernando Valley Bar Association and sits on the Park Advisory Board of Pan Pacific Recreation Complex.

Michael also sits on the board of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition that provides a support and advocacy network for, and is comprised of formerly incarcerated young men and women. Michael was born and raised in Los Angeles, is married and the father of two young boys.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 26 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 1996

Updated 12/07/2022

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

Contact Michael

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Goldstein Law Group

1645 Vine Street

Suite 809

Los Angeles, CA, 90028

Message Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

87 customer reviews

5 Star

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4 Star

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1 Star

Posted by anonymous | April 26, 2022

Mrs. Ferrando

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Posted by Shaun | July 22, 2021

Professional at his best

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Posted by anonymous | July 12, 2021

Amazing is an understatement!

Probably Thee most selfless council & office I've ever come in contact with. I've worked with attorneys for over 12 years and I've yet to come in contact with someone so caring, professional and over all approachable. The work he and his team did, was beyond anything I could have asked for. Thank you Michael & Irma. I'm forever indebted to you all.

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Posted by Sabrina | June 25, 2021

Highly Recommend

I couldn't have asked for a better outcome through such a difficult process. Michael Goldstein was the highest level of professionalism, efficiency and integrity. I was able to come to him with any questions at any time and having that communication through it all was so comforting. In any matter requiring representation, there would be no other choice than Michael Goldstein.

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Posted by Rachel | June 15, 2021

VP GM

Michael Goldstein is the best lawyer in Los Angeles, if integrity and honesty is important to you then this is your man! Los Angeles is a better city with Michael in it. Michael has helped our family on numerous occasions and I credit him for the strong , healthy family that I am so proud of today. We could not have done this without him.

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Posted by Blake | April 21, 2021

Michael the Miracle Worker

I retained Michael and his team towards the beginning of February this year. At first I was very nervous as I was facing some serious charges 25400pc (1) from a predicament I got into on December 20, 2020. From the very first consultation Michael assured me that everything would be okay. As I said I was very nervous and wasn’t sure that there was any way that “everything would be okay” ,but I was extremely wrong. If you’re stuck in a bad situation with the law and think that there is no way out, look towards Michael’s firm. Not only did he saved me jail time and even time in general, he got my charges completely declined before they were even filed. He was amazing when it came to talking to the DA and kept me up to date frequently. Michael Goldstein and firm you guys are miracle workers and worth every penny of cost for representation! I would highly recommend the firm to anyone facing legal troubles, they are extraordinary!

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Posted by Paul | February 26, 2021

Ultimate Professionalism In A Criminal Defense Attorney

I would recommend Michael Goldstein of the Goldstein Law Group to anyone and everyone. I found myself in need of a criminal defense attorney and luckily a family friend steered me in Michael Goldstein's direction. Michael took control of my case, moved my court date up, and negotiated successfully to have all charges dropped. From start to finish the best experience with a legal professional that I have ever had. As long as Michael Goldstein of the Goldstein Law Group is practicing law he will be my attorney.

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Posted by anonymous | October 27, 2020

Ms.

To our dismay, our 19-year-old son was falsely accused of rape in July 2018. The very day the investigator came to our house to interrogate him we met with & hired a criminal attorney to represent him. Eight months later, our attorney said he had worked out a good deal with the DA & recommended my son to take a plea deal to a misdemeanor for statutory rape. We could not decide to settle & admit to a guilty plea for a crime my son had did not commit so we decided to hire somebody else to represent him. We met with a couple of criminal attorneys who stated the case was 100% triable but unfortunately their retainer was way beyond our possibilities. We met with Mike in March 2019. Mike reviewed the case & stated he would fight to prove our son’s innocence as if it was his own kid. We were right there inspired by Mike’s professionalism, self- confidence & humanity so we hired him to represent our son & once again prayed our son’s life was in the right hands. Mike recommended we hire an investigator, which we did. Once the investigation was completed Mike prepared a mitigation package which he presented to the DA. At this point, Mike stated he was very positive & was aiming at getting the charges dropped before even going to trial. Unfortunately, we were hit with COVID & the already long & agonizing wait became even longer since the courts were closed. However, as soon as the courts reopened Mike resumed conversations with the DA & the charges were finally dropped in front of the judge in October 2020. Mike kept his word & fought to prove our son’s innocence as if it was his own kid & for that we will be forever grateful.

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Posted by Candyce | October 27, 2020

Jack ferra’s case

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Michael Goldstein. He represented my husband in a criminal case. My husband was facing misdemeanor charges for growing and operating a marijuana grow. As well as a felony charge for manufacturing. Michael was able to squash it before the case even went to preliminary hearing. At the prelim examination Michael was prepared and ready with everything needed to end the case and fight the DA. He got the misdemeanor charges dropped completely and the felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor. Michael is confident and professional and clearly loves what he does! Michaels secretary, Irma was my lifesaver. She always answered when I called her in a panic and would reassure me that Michael had our backs. Michael delivered what he promised! They are a great team and without a doubt, Michael Goldstein IS who you want Defending you!

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Posted by Isaac | April 23, 2020

Recommendation

I moved to LA in 2015 and when I needed an attorney Mr. Michael Goldstein was highly recommended to me. My wife and I were very sad, depressed, and with a significant anxiety, when we met Attorney Goldstein for the first time. He proved to be most professional, detailed oriented, highly skilled and very intelligent. To our shock his fees were also very reasonable. When we left his office on our first meeting, both my wife and I felt confident and convinced that we have chosen the best professional lawyer. Within days Mr. Goldstein prepared us in a most professional manner to respond to the legal demands and documents. He communicated with us frequently and directed us on the path of success. The court documents that his office prepared were most professional and detailed. The REASULT of his professional work was most successful and beyond our expectations. We are most satisfied with Mr. Michael Goldstein and his professional staff. As a business owner, developer, engineer, EMBA & CPA we highly recommend the Goldstein Law Firm with no hesitation what so ever.

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Posted by Sharon | December 21, 2019

Gifted counsel under fire and a deeply concerned handling of my complex matter.

I was trained in Clinical Psychology and work in the field I love. I was six months ago though, accused of elder abuse of my mother. I was formally charged with a criminal act that I never committed. I faced being unable to license as a psychotherapist or to continue to work with people in any trusted, caring capacity as a result. I was indeed in very dark waters. The case was brought by a family member. It should have been an easy case for Mr. Goldstein on the face of it, but the family member who initiated the accusations had ties to law enforcement, and had spent years weaving a tangled web to incriminate me in an attempt deprive me of an inheritance. I was blindsided by this, and quite frightened in the face of almost overwhelming, complex hearsay and misinterpretation of facts that were delivered over several years to the DA’s office by this family member , who thus created a “ record”, a tide that was running strongly against me. It became clear after Mr. Goldstein agreed to represent me and began discovery, that it was actually quite a difficult case. I had many possible character witnesses who could refute the charges, but my mother suffers from dementia, so it was anything but a straightforward defense, due to how much false evidence had been “presented” behind the scene. My livelihood and career were at stake. Michael Goldstein cut through it all and by simplifying the matter for the DA and pointing her to the two most relevant and credible witnesses who strongly refuted the charges. He repeatedly argued persuasively that he would not be willing to settle on my behalf for any less than a full dismissal. Having persuaded her to dismiss charges, he further resolved to seek an allowance of “sealing” of the record of this matter, so that it would not ever come up in my work. He fully gained the DA’s cooperation and agreement. I really cannot recommend him more highly. He can absolutely be trusted in both his character and competence. His tenacity in unraveling the prosecutions effort was tireless and determined. He saved my professional life under serious threat of prosecution, and understood well that in my case it was not just about my “getting off”.

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Posted by Alexandra G. | September 14, 2019

Get Me Goldstein

Michael Goldstein has been representing my family for a number of years. He is an exceptional lawyer, who never seeks to disappoint. Michael has many years of experience in the criminal defense field and has represented multiple family members of mine in both felony and misdemeanor cases. All cases ended up getting thrown out or dismissed. I would recommend Michael to anyone, including my close friends and family. You can’t go wrong with hiring Goldstein.

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Posted by Juan | June 14, 2019

Domestic Violance can affect you

I was facing a domestic violence charge with corporal injury. My sister hired a lawyer before Micheal. That lawyer wanted to give me a military diversion. Which isn’t too bad he was going to put in the motion, but my mom and I had different ideas we went with the best. His professionalism and knowledge of the law got mi case dismissed. I would recommend 100%.

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Posted by Marina | May 31, 2019

Professional Miracle Worker

Michael made a miracle for my son and my family!I hired Michael after I was advised that the attorney I had was mishandling my son’s case. Once I hired Michael he was incredibly professional, and he communicated with me honestly, clearly, and often. In spite of the mishandling of my son’s case during the preliminary phase of the trial, and facing multiple life sentence charges, Michael got my son a second chance in life and safe him from serving time in jail! He did more then he promised!!! He is the BEST!!! Highly recommended!!!

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Posted by Jefferson | April 8, 2019

I needed help

Mr. Goldstien saved my career. Having worked in an industry for 23+ years, I was falsely accused and was referred to Mr. Goldstein by someone familiar with my situation. Mr. Golstein took an approach that overcame obstacles and successfully represented me. Well worth it.

Posted by Erich | March 20, 2019

Guidance Amidst Legal Chaos

Last November and December were two of the most stressful months of my life. The walls were closing in on my criminal case and my former (disrespectful) defense attorney threw his hands up in the midst of the chaos. Luckily, a family friend put me in touch with Michael. He immediately took stock of the situation and worked to link me up with a much more competent defense attorney in a matter of days. As you, reader, unfortunately understand; interactions with the criminal justice system can prove unimaginably stressful, scary and disorienting. I implore you to consider Michael as your north star as you navigate your journey. He is shrewd, responsible, personable, gifted and full of heart. Michael rapidly took on my problem on top of his current caseload and familial demands. Without his guidance, reassurance and compassion I would be completely lost amidst this legal storm. I hope the deep sense of gratitude and appreciation comes forth from reading this review, and I hope it encourages you to give Michael a call. He saved the day, in ways I couldn't have imagined at the time.

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Posted by Erica | February 23, 2019

No charges filed against me

Michael Goldstein was an excellent attorney on my case and was detailed in every little thing. He was able to show evidence that helped my case. He worked hard and was able to get my case dismissed with no charges filed against me. I liked how he communicated with me daily. He is an excellent attorney.

Posted by anonymous | February 18, 2019

Knowledgeable and Professional Attorney - Great Outcome on My Case

Michael Goldstein is an extremely knowledgeable and competent attorney. He not only got my record cleaned, he advised me on all my potential legal implications. I liked how he kept in contact with me during the whole process and his excellent legal service. I always felt I was in good hands. I have no hesitation recommending Mr. Goldstein.

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Posted by R. R. | February 4, 2019

Excellent guidance and case result

We had a serious family situation and attorney Michael Goldstein gave us excellent guidance to a successful conclusion. He always took my calls. I give him my highest recommendation.

Posted by J H | January 21, 2019

Got my charges reduced to just a fine

I was arrested for DUI and caught with a little marijuana. I was referred to Michael Goldstein by a friend who said he specializes in DUI cases. Mr. Goldstein worked aggressively and got my charges reduced to just a fine. I might have lost my job if convicted. He always kept me in the loop of what was going on in my case. Thank you Michael.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner
Goldstein Law Group
1996 - Present

Education

University of LaVerne College of Law
Juris Doctor
1996

University of Southern California
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1991

Legal Cases

DUI Charges Dismissed
Charges Dismissed

Robbery Charges Dismissed and No Jail
No Jail Time in Robbery Case

Charges to be Dismissed in Marijuana DUI Case
Charges Dismissed

View all legal cases

Associations

Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association
Board of Directors
2010 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
2002 - Present

Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association
Member
1999 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association
Member
1997 - Present

San Fernando Valley Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
Member
1996 - Present

State Bar of California
Member
1996 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Spanish

Honors and Awards

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2018

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2010

Attorney endorsements

Received (125)

Given (175)

Endorse Michael

Craig Charles

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is a top-notch criminal defense attorney who will fight hard to get you the best possible result. I highly recommend him!!"

Walter Hnot,

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an excellent attorney committed to providing the highest quality representation to clients. I endorse this attorney without reservation."

Amir Soleimanian

Unknown Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Greene

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike is the best in the business. If he is your lawyer you are very very lucky"

Jameel Manji

Juvenile law Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community."

Mark Clay

DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Goldstein. Very experienced and caring attorney who achieves great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact him for help."

Benjamin Pardun

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"A great asset to the criminal defense community. I endorse this lawyer."

Inna Gorin

Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Michael Goldstein. Highly experienced, intelligent, and dedicated attorney with a track record of success. He is well known in the Avvo community for posting very helpful and thorough legal answers for people seeking advice. He is widely respected in the legal community."

Jonathan Lacour

DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Keen attention to detail and exceptional client service. One of the best DUI attorneys there is. I endorse this lawyer."

Gregory Brenner

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Charles Smith

Unknown Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Based upon the quantity and quality of contributions on AVVO, I have found the contributions to be thoughtful, informative and practical. I highly recommend his legal services"

Mark Murad

Unknown Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. He is one of the best lawyers!"

Robert Storrs

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"A review of Mr. Goldstein's credentials makes it clear that he is highly knowledgeable and well-established in the community."

Mark Cunningham

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher Ariano

DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I would recommend Mr. Goldstein to anyone who is charged with a crime. He is a highly experienced and aggressive attorney who knows the ins and outs of the highly specialized area of DUI defense. I would encourage anyone who is facing a DUI or other charges to contact him."

John Elbert

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is a fine attorney who is dedicated to his clients and works tirelessly for successful results. I have no hesitation when endorsing him."

Michael Cognata

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Unlike many attorneys whom I know by reputation alone, I have actually had the pleasure of working on a case in the past with Michael Goldstein, where we had co-defendants/clients. He is an amazingly thoughtful and intelligent attorney. I also see him in court quite regularly and his presence does not go unrecognized by the court. He has a spotless reputation and I would hire him if I had a problem requiring representation or counsel."