Skip to main content

Michael Aaron Goldstein

Open for Business
Virtual Consultation
  Save
Avvo Rating10
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Licensed for 24 years
  • Free consultation
Michael Aaron Goldstein
Michael Aaron Goldstein
AboutContactReviewsCost

About Michael

TOP-RATED LOS ANGELES AND HOLLYWOOD CRIMINAL, DUI AND FEDERAL CRIME LAWYER. 22 YEARS EXPERIENCE.

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.

Read More

Practice areas

OtherFederal crimeDUI and DWIDomestic violenceCriminal defense
  1. 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.

    25 years, 2,500 cases

  2. 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.

    25 years, 2,000 cases

  3. 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.

    25 years, 2,500 cases

  4. 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.

    25 years, 500 cases

  1. 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.

    25 years, 500 cases

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Photos and videos

1901472 1424358702

1901472 1424793896

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
CAActive199605/16/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers1398
Legal guides1
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2018
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2010
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
PartnerGoldstein Law Group1996 - Present
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar AssociationBoard of Directors2010 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2002 - Present
Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar AssociationMember1999 - Present
Los Angeles County Bar AssociationMember1997 - Present
San Fernando Valley Bar Association, Criminal Law SectionMember1996 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaMember1996 - Present
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of LaVerne College of LawJuris Doctor1996
University of Southern CaliforniaBA - Bachelor of Arts1991
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
DUI Charges DismissedCharges Dismissed
Robbery Charges Dismissed and No JailNo Jail Time in Robbery Case
Charges to be Dismissed in Marijuana DUI CaseCharges Dismissed
No Charges Filed In Sexual Assault CaseDA Declined to File Charges
Declaration of Factual Innocence Granted in Marijuana Transportation CaseDeclaration of factual innocence
San Fernando Courthouse - Attempted murder charges dismissedCharges Dismissed
Los Angeles Superior Court - Not guilty verdicts in attempted murder caseNot Guilty
Los Angeles Superior Court - Malibu CourthouseNot Guilty
Los Angeles Superior Court - Malibu Courthouse-Not Guilty Verdict
Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed Against Non-Citizen ClientCharges Dismissed
Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed Against Registered NurseCharges Dismissed
Felony Charges Dismissed and No Jail in Assault on Police OfficersFelony Charges Dismissed
Charges Dismissed in DUI involving Traffic CollisionCharges Dismissed
Charges Dismissed in Cocaine ArrestCharges Dismissed After Completion of Terms
Domestic Violence Charges DismissedCase Dismissed
Felony Human Trafficking Charges DismissedCase Dismissed
Probation & Drug Rehab in 7 Count Residential Burglary CaseProbation & Drug Rehab
Charges Dismissed in Methamphetamine Sales CaseCase Dismissed
No Charges Filed in Venice High School Sexual Assault CaseNo Charges Filed
Judge Dismisses Drug Trafficking ChargesDrug Trafficking Charges Dismissed
Charges Dismissed in DUI Arrest involving Traffic CollisionDUI Drugs Charges Dismissed
DUI Charges DismissedDUI Charges Dismissed
DUI Charge DismissedDUI Charge Dismissed
No Charges Filed in Vehicular Manslaughter InvestigationNo Charges Filed
Drug Charges Dismissed Following Suppression MotionCharges Dismissed
Attempted Murder & Robbery Charges Dismissed - San Fernando Superior CourtCharges Dismissed
Drug Charges Dismissed after 26 YearsCharges Dismissed
No Jail in 3rd DUI with .34/.35 blood alcohol levelNegotiated case with no jail time
1st Degree Murder Charges Dismissed in Gang KillingDismissal

Reviews

(86)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Michael Goldstein

Honest, professional and caring attorney with great results.

Posted by

I first retained Michael in summer of 2008 when I was charged with two misdemeanor (non-violent) charges. As a professional earning well over six figures in our shaky economy, I was caught in a high stakes predicament with fear of losing my job and reputation if convicted on the charges. I was referred to Michael by another reputable attorney. Michael gave me a free consultation over coffee (which I agreed on the venue because it was more convenient to me) and soon after I retained him. Michael fought for me in multiple hearings of which I attended only when it made sense. This was important as I was trying to balance my career at the same time. The end result was a settlement on a single much lesser misdemeanor conviction and dismissal of the original charges. Twelve months later, I again retained Michael who convinced the court to terminate my probation early and expunge the conviction. Michael is knowledgeable and locally well connected. His approach is aggressive but realistic. His fees are competitive, fair and transparent. Most important in my situation was that he was understanding of my situation and discreet. I would recommend him for white collar professionals but I have no doubt he will do just as well for any income class.

He is the best lawyer! saved me from getting life! Story is on La times.

Posted by

I would definitely recommend Michael! He saved me from innocently getting life in prison. I was wrongly accused of assaulting, robbing and attempted murder and I did 20 days in jail. The DA and detectives weren't doing their job and Michael got to the bottom of it. My dad was trying to hire the best attorney so he did his research looked around and a family member that had actually beat his case with him recommended him. Michael comes from a family of famous lawyers and is known to be one of the best lawyers and I could see why. I thank God he came across him. He did an amazing job as soon as my father hired him he starting doing all he could to get me out of there the soonest possible. Thank you Michael for all your hard work and thank you to your secretary she is amazing as well. My dad couldn't go to the courts but she kept updating him often and we appreciate everything! This was a big stressful time for us but we got through it. I am only 20 years old and I'm happy I won't be in prison for the rest of my life! Once again I would definitely recommend Michael!

Professional at his best

Posted by

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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Amazing is an understatement!

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Highly Recommend

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

VP GM

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Michael the Miracle Worker

Posted by

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!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Ultimate Professionalism In A Criminal Defense Attorney

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Ms.

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Jack ferra’s case

Posted by

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!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(125)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Craig Charles, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 8, 2019
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 on Mar 21, 2017
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

I endorse this lawyer.

David Greene, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 15, 2016
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 on Apr 9, 2016
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 on Aug 19, 2015
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 on Jul 15, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Inna Gorin, Criminal defense Attorney on May 4, 2015
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 on Apr 30, 2015
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 on Apr 28, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Charles Smith

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

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

Robert Storrs, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 16, 2015
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 on Mar 13, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Christopher Ariano, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 11, 2015
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 on Mar 10, 2015
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 on Feb 28, 2015
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.

Nicholas Spirtos

I endorse this lawyer. Highly rated and knowledgeable. Great responses on questions. Right on target.

Jill Rogers

Competent, professional, and all around a great attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

Robert von Dohlen, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 16, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Cost

RATES
    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
      30 minutes
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card