Michael Aaron Goldstein

PRO

Michael Aaron Goldstein

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 29 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Los Angeles, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Federal Crime ... +2 more

1645 Vine Street, Suite 809, Los Angeles, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Michael

Biography

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

Practice Areas

5

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.

30 years | 2,500 cases

60%
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.

30 years | 2,500 cases

10%
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.

30 years | 2,000 cases

10%
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.

30 years | 500 cases

10%
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.

30 years | 500 cases

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2021 2019 2018
...
+ 6
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2018 2017 2016
...
+ 2
Gold Client Champion

Licenses

Licensed in California for 29 years

State: California

Acquired: 1996

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Goldstein Law Group

1645 Vine Street, Suite 809, Los Angeles, CA, 90028

goldsteinlawgroup.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Michael online.

Michael Aaron Goldstein's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

91 Client Reviews

Showing 36 - 40 of 91 reviews

Posted by Brandon | October 22, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

1 of a kind

Michael is truly amazing. I was facing multiple years for strong arm robbery that I really didn’t do and had approx 10 days to resolve the case before I surrender into federal custody for a different case (wish I had hired him to be my lawyer on that case) and he worked with the DA to plea it all th...e way down to a misdemeanor. I had a real complex situation to navigate and he did everything in his power to help me and that gives you the best piece of mind you can get. He even worked with me on the price, he actually cares and is not just another money hungry lawyer. Michael is proof that they are not all the same. I’d recommend each and everyone of you reading this to call him right now if you need help.

Posted by Mike | October 19, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

light at the end of the tunnel

Back in 2011, I was arrested and charged with 3 felonies: posession of marijuana(about 10 lbs), transportation, and intent to sell. I also had 2 firearms, which gave me 2 +1's, and misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance. Altogether I was facing about a decade in prison had I been convicte...d to the fullest extent of the law. I was taken to the LA county holding station in West Hollywood, was held on $100k bond, and after making my initial phone call to the bail bondsman, they decided to deem me a flight risk, so they relinquished my bail, and i was to be held until my arraignment. My family had found Michael Goldstein to represent me, while I was in holding; and he actually came by to visit me. The way he presented to me, that everything was going to be ok(even though at the moment, I knew I was looking at serious prison time), I literally felt like the hand of God had swooped in to ensure that everything was going to work out in my favor, despite my then current situation. Due to Michael's experience, he was able to convince the DA that I was not in fact, a flight risk; but just a troubled young man who had made some bad decisions with no prior record, and I was released on my own recognizance. That was only part of the battle, unfortunately my phone records were subpoenaed, which landed me in hot water. We continued to make appearances in court, with no hiccups in between and lead us to the final sentencing. Of course I didnt want jail or prison time, so under Michael's counsel, I plead no contest to the felony possession of marijauana charge, and not guilty to the others. With Michael's foresight, he recommended this as a bargain for my situation, as I would later have the opportunity to reduce this charge to a misdemeanor. With Michael's experience in persuading the powers that be to not impose harsh punishments on his clients; but rather send them to a diversion program for rehabilitation is really where his reputation precedes him, and he truly does care for the well-being of his clients. Ultimately, my conviction of felony possession of marijuana carried a sentence of 3 years probation, 320 hours of community service, and a 60 residential treatment program. Michael continued to support my case to ensure this conviction was reduced to a misdemeanor. My personal opinion on how Michael Goldstein made me feel when I was initially looking at a multi year bid in prison, when I thought my life was over; and there was no way out... Well, he treated me as if I was his family when he visited me in the holding cell and assured me I was going to be ok, he's a world class criminal defense attorney so suffice to say he's a busy guy yet always took my phone calls or returned them as soon as he could, he showed up to my court dates, he counseled my case with compassion, and every time I spoke with him I knew I was in good hands and that I had complete faith he would do right by me. It's been nearly 8 years since my arrest, and in that time I was given the opportunity to completely revolutionize my life. All i needed was that glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, which Michael gave me through the year of showing up to court with me in 2011. So rather than having a career as a criminal in and out of jail, I had a second lease on life and a chance to modify my behavior; my days are now filled with happiness, and most importantly, freedom. Much gratitude for Michael Goldstein and his team for supporting me through a difficult time in my life where an apparent event of misfortune, turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

Posted by Richard R. | October 15, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Family

Highest Recommendation!

Thorough. Attentive. Savvy. Caring. Clearly well-respected by the courts. We had a family crisis and Michael Goldstein guided us to a successful conclusion on the case. He gets my highest recommendation!

Posted by Forest Z. | October 08, 2018 | Hired Attorney

Highly Recommend!

Michael Goldstein is an excellent attorney. He is smart, professional, and dedicated. He always had our best interest in mind and not just after a quick dollar. He did a great job on my case and kept me well informed on what was happening. Highly recommend!

Posted by Matt | October 02, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Michael did a great job on my case

Michael Goldstein is definitely the guy to have on your team when it comes to criminal cases. He knows a lot of the DA’s and employees in the Van Nuys Courthouse. He did a great job on my case. Would 100% recommend him.

See All Client Reviews

Michael Aaron Goldstein's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Eugene Paul Hanrahan headshot
Eugene Hanrahan

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 04

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer because Michael has the experience and knowledge to get excellent results for his clients."

Craig Forrest Charles headshot
Craig Charles

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Rudolph Hnot, III headshot
Walter Hnot,

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
Amir Soleimanian

Unknown lawyer | Oct 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

David R. Greene headshot
David Greene

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
Jameel Manji

Juvenile law lawyer | Apr 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 Harold Pardun headshot
Benjamin Pardun

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Inna S Gorin headshot
Inna Gorin

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 David Brenner headshot
Gregory Brenner

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Charles R Smith headshot
Charles Smith

Unknown lawyer | 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 Issa Murad headshot
Mark Murad

Unknown lawyer | Mar 21

Relationship: Other

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

Robert L Storrs headshot
Robert Storrs

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 George Cunningham headshot
Mark Cunningham

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher H. Ariano headshot
Christopher Ariano

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 B. Elbert headshot
John Elbert

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 P Cognata headshot
Michael Cognata

Criminal defense lawyer | 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."

Nicholas Basil Spirtos headshot
Nicholas Spirtos

Unknown lawyer | Feb 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Jill L Rogers headshot
Jill Rogers

Unknown lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Other

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

View All Endorsements
Craig Forrest Charles headshot
Craig Charles

Personal injury lawyer

Jose Antonio Egurbide headshot
Jose Egurbide

Government lawyer

Jameel Manji headshot
Jameel Manji

Immigration lawyer

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

Immigration lawyer

Benjamin Harold Pardun headshot
Benjamin Pardun

Criminal defense lawyer

Martin Pines headshot
Martin Pines

Criminal defense lawyer

Gregory David Brenner headshot
Gregory Brenner

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark Issa Murad headshot
Mark Murad

Personal injury lawyer

Robert L Storrs headshot
Robert Storrs

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark George Cunningham headshot
Mark Cunningham

Personal injury lawyer

Christopher H. Ariano headshot
Christopher Ariano

Criminal defense lawyer

John B. Elbert headshot
John Elbert

Criminal defense lawyer

Robert Werner von Dohlen headshot
Robert von Dohlen

Personal injury lawyer

Michael P Cognata headshot
Michael Cognata

DUI and DWI lawyer

Mark Wayne Girdner headshot
Mark Girdner

Criminal defense lawyer

Inna S Gorin headshot
Inna Gorin

Personal injury lawyer

James Charles Shields headshot
James Shields

Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer

Benjamin S Kuipers headshot
Benjamin Kuipers

Criminal defense lawyer

Edward Lawrence Earle headshot
Edward Earle

Personal injury lawyer

Thomas John Nellessen headshot
Thomas Nellessen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

1996 - Present

Partner, Goldstein Law Group

Associations

2010 - Present

Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association

Board of Directors

2002 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

1999 - Present

Los Angeles Criminal Courts Bar Association

Member

1997 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association

Member

1996 - Present

San Fernando Valley Bar Association, Criminal Law Section

Member

1996 - Present

State Bar of California

Member

Sample of 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

No Charges Filed In Sexual Assault Case

DA Declined to File Charges

Declaration of Factual Innocence Granted in Marijuana Transportation Case

Declaration of factual innocence

San Fernando Courthouse - Attempted murder charges dismissed

Charges Dismissed

Los Angeles Superior Court - Not guilty verdicts in attempted murder case

Not Guilty

Los Angeles Superior Court - Malibu Courthouse

Not Guilty

Los Angeles Superior Court - Malibu Courthouse-

Not Guilty Verdict

Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed Against Non-Citizen Client

Charges Dismissed

Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed Against Registered Nurse

Charges Dismissed

Felony Charges Dismissed and No Jail in Assault on Police Officers

Felony Charges Dismissed

Charges Dismissed in DUI involving Traffic Collision

Charges Dismissed

Charges Dismissed in Cocaine Arrest

Charges Dismissed After Completion of Terms

Felony Human Trafficking Charges Dismissed

Case Dismissed

Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed

Case Dismissed

Probation & Drug Rehab in 7 Count Residential Burglary Case

Probation & Drug Rehab

Charges Dismissed in Methamphetamine Sales Case

Case Dismissed

No Charges Filed in Venice High School Sexual Assault Case

No Charges Filed

Judge Dismisses Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug Trafficking Charges Dismissed

Charges Dismissed in DUI Arrest involving Traffic Collision

DUI Drugs Charges Dismissed

DUI Charges Dismissed

DUI Charges Dismissed

DUI Charge Dismissed

DUI Charge Dismissed

No Charges Filed in Vehicular Manslaughter Investigation

No Charges Filed

Drug Charges Dismissed Following Suppression Motion

Charges Dismissed

Attempted Murder & Robbery Charges Dismissed - San Fernando Superior Court

Charges Dismissed

Drug Charges Dismissed after 26 Years

Charges Dismissed

No Jail in 3rd DUI with .34/.35 blood alcohol level

Negotiated case with no jail time

1st Degree Murder Charges Dismissed in Gang Killing

Dismissal

See More Legal Cases

Education

1996

University of LaVerne College of Law

Juris Doctor

1991

University of Southern California

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Languages

English

Spanish

Activity

Top Contributor

Michael earned significant contribution points in 2018.

Avvo Rating

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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