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Michael Sean Devereux

Federal crime Attorney at Beverly Hills, CA

4.5   24 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 20 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2003
    Status
    Active Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2022

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2022. See details

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Civil rights
    25%
    Has represented clients in federal court for federal and state civil rights violations for illegal search and seizure, excessive force, typically any civil rights violation done by law enforcement.

    20 years

  2. Federal crime
    25%
    Michael's first case involved defending associates of the Columbian Cali cartel in Operation Casablanca, the largest money laundering sting in US history.

  3. Privacy
    25%
    Representing clients in all avenues of privacy law from cybercrimes, defamation, revenge porn, social media (Yelp!) reviews, use of likeness, etc.

  4. Gun Law
    10%
    Although you may believe that you are prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm, there are exceptions, even for a felony conviction and/or a 5150 hold.

  5. Lawsuits and disputes
    10%
    Representing clients in federal and state as a trial attorney for entertainment, forfeiture, Internet, and privacy matters.

  6. Appeals
    5%
    Published opinion in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in a computer/privacy matter. Exceptional writing skills.

    20 years

ADVISES A WIDE RANGE OF LOS ANGELES AND CALIFORNIA CLIENTS ACROSS A NUMBER OF AREAS OF LAW.
  • Top 100 Trial Attorney
  • 2020 Litigator of the Year American Institute of Trial Lawyers
  • 2020 Elite Lawyer
  • 2019 Top 40 Civil Rights Verdicts from TopVerdict
  • Published Appellate opinion in Ninth Circuit
  • Nominated by the Cochran Firm as their best criminal defense lawyer in 2005.

Awards

Top Contributor 2022,2021,2020,2019,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014,2013
Top Contributor
2022 2021 2020 + 7 ...
Client's Choice 2013
Client's Choice
2013

Photos and videos

Contact Michael

Michael Devereux
9171 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 500
Beverly Hills, CA, 90210

Reviews

4.5 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
5 Star
 
88%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
13%
Client's Choice 2013
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Shawn Paul | June 1, 2013
Super Lawyer beat the pants off the Prosecutor & the Judge-WINS unanimously in less than 40 minutes of Jury deliberation.
YES, I highly recommend Michael as a Super Lawyer. Michael took my case to the full jury trial because the issue was politically sensitive and he beat the pants off the Prosecutor & the Judge, so much the prosecutor commented such and shook his hand at the end. WINS unanimously in less than 40 minutes of Jury deliberation! Michael is a Law driven expert who is data, evidence driven, this Super Lawyer which fights to WIN & thrives on taking the full case through the full court system (Jury Trail). He has a deep understanding of Technology, various Industry and expert in aligning the case to make the needs with client expectations. As a Legal leader, act as a consistent advocate and champion for use of Legal, regulatory compliance, standard methods, tools, techniques, best practices, and emerging. He has a passion for creative and innovative technical solutions to understand how a Jury would see things, while ensuring that cost conscientious and executes best road map for your desired results are feasible and deliverable. Although the experience is troubling for anyone to have to go to court, Michael takes the burden away & off the client.
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Posted by anonymous | April 4, 2013
Thank you Michael Devereux
Unfortuantely I was in a situation where I needed to hire Michael Sean Devereux regarding cybercrime that happened to me personally. Mr. Devereux was very knowledgable in this field and had my case rectified and closed within weeks. I highly recommend Michael Sean Devereux.
Posted by anonymous | April 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Don't play with Lions tail.
He is very powerful in his profession. I had a case connected to another country , I checked with several lawyers they want a lot of money or they didn't know how to do it. As soon as Michael saw that he said I will dismiss the case within 10 hours. and guess what? he defeat my enemy as he promised. Thanks is not good enough for him.
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Posted by anonymous | July 16, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Consultation Experience!
He was able to answer all my questions in a timely manner that helped put my mind at ease! He was very knowledgeable and I thank him so much for taking his time to answer every question!
Posted by Jean | June 16, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very helpful information
Mr Devereux took the time to suggest possible remedies for my issues. I am looking further into these solutions and what is involved. It is possible I will hire him to do some work for me.
Response from Michael Devereux June 17, 2020
Thank you for the kind words.
Posted by Julia | June 7, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very knowledgeable, and helpful
Fast response, easy to talk to, very helpful and knowledgeable. Has helped me with my current criminal and family cases. Experienced, helpful, and understanding.
Posted by Marion | March 10, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
highly recommend
I consulted Mr. Devereaux for a personal matter and he took the time explaining in detail what to expect, I am forever grateful for his advise.
Posted by Helen | March 21, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Extremely helpful
He not only understood the issue I was trying to solve but sent me a link to all the information I needed to solve it. He went above and beyond and I appreciate that very much.
Posted by anonymous | March 19, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Quick and knowledgeable response on electronic transfer lost between two banks
Attorney Devereux responded quickly to my questions and provided resources and agencies I could use to file a complaint. I transferred funds online from one bank to another and while the intended recipient did not receive the funds due to an oversight on my part, both banks are claiming the other should have the funds. This had been going on for 4 months.
Read less
Posted by Elizabeth | March 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I'm so glad to have met him!!
He was so reassurring that everything was going to be be fine in regards of my boyfriend. And when it came to our court date the case was dismissed, and i believe it was due to him because he said he was going to send a letter to the D.A stating I didnt want to pursue anything against my boyfriend and was going to use my right to Marcy's Law and he reassurred me that by doing so the case was going to be dropped and it was.
Read less
Posted by Amy | December 2, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Amazing
He answered me quickly and with respect. All the other attorneys that responded were judgemental and rude. I was very relieved after I spoke with him. He is amazing and was my Angel in disguise
Posted by Brooks | October 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 stars is not nearly enough!!!!!
When I had the good fortune to be represented by Mr. Devereux I was reminded that God does indeed work through others. I owe this man my life, literally. I can't begin to express how great Michael is. Everyone told me my case was hopeless, that I was a fool to take this to trial and this man had faith in me and his ability to give me a fair trial and ultimately an astounding new belief in humanity. With all the lies and illegal acts committed by the prosecution and law enforcement, Mr. Devereux never once seemed to not have anything but ultimate confidence in himself and our case. Watching him in action was like watching a surgeon save a life. If your freedom is a risk, them there is no one better to handle your case. He was always available to answer my calls or emails, he visited me regularly behind bars and ultimately proved my innocence. Because that's what it really is; you proving your innocence. He isn't over priced and is there to provide you justice. I believed he truly cared about me and my case. I can't thank him enough. Thank you Mr. Devereux!!
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Posted by anonymous | September 1, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Brilliant & Informative Attorney
Michael came to us when we were in crisis and had just lost 500k in an internet wire fraud hack job by criminals. He lightened us up with good information and follows up. Just a really nice good guy and easy to talk too.
Response from Michael Devereux September 8, 2017
Thank you for the kind words. If you need any additional information or help, please don't hesitate to call.
Posted by anonymous | January 18, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney
I retained Mr. Devereux to recall a warrant. He took the time to explain everything and helped me get the results I was hoping for. Could not have been happier with the whole experience. He helped me through a very stressful and draining ordeal. I would definitely recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
Posted by rachel landers | October 8, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Highly Recommend!
Today I consulted with Attorney Devereux on the phone concerning internet law about a website that illegally publishing my personal information. Attorney Devereux time out of his busy day to discuss the internet privacy laws with me. He's very knowledgeable of the law. I highly recommend Attorney Devereux.
Posted by fabiola | April 13, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceeded my expectations!!!
Let me start by saying I am extremely pleased by Mr. Devereux's work, professionalism, and devotion to his clients. He was very honest and never made any false promises about the outcome of my case nor did he try to seek compensation further than our initial contract. I initially consulted and even hired other experienced attorneys but nothing got accomplished. Mr. Devereux worked on my case for over six months and was able to get my case dismissed which I was told by previous attorneys was impossible. My husband and I are forever grateful for his great work!
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Posted by Frances | November 8, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superior Criminal Defense Attorney
I wanted an old fashioned sleuth type criminal defense attorney with successful experience so a friend recommended Michael Devereux in downtown Long Beach. Amazing lawyer. His knowledge of criminal law and evidence is remarkable. He got me a great result. To watch him lawyering was well worth the money. I read a review where someone called him a Super Lawyer. That is so true. You can’t go wrong with this criminal attorney.
Read less
Posted by Gayle | November 29, 2013
Responsive and Knowledgeable
I did not hire Mr. Devereux because of my issues were in small claims court where you can not be represented by an attorney. He give me his full attention and benefit of his experience during our hour free consultation and provided me with guidance as I moved forward. He would be my first choice when I am in need of an attorney in the future.
Read less
Posted by SDKev760 | July 2, 2013
More then one isp approval for your area
Great detail and knowledgeable answer to my question. I would definitely used him as a lawyer for future reference
Posted by Courtney | April 9, 2013
Internet extortion case
When I thought my case was impossible, Michael came to the rescue. His knowledge of internet forensics is beyond impressive. I cannot thank him and his team enough for all of their hard work.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 45 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check

Resume

AVVO RATING 1.0 (Extreme Caution)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2022.

Discipline with Actual Suspension issued in CA, 2022
updated on 11/07/2023

This sanction means the attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. The attorney typically returns to practicing law when the suspension expires.

Discipline with Actual Suspension issued in CA, 2022
updated on 10/09/2023

This sanction means the attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. The attorney typically returns to practicing law when the suspension expires.

Discipline, Probation; no Actual Suspension issued in CA, 2020
updated on 10/15/2020

This sanction means the attorney had a suspension placed on hold (and ultimately removed) by complying with certain requirements.

Michael's comment: “In 2019, I had health issues including several heart attacks causing several strokes which were significant reasons behind the action taken. I'm in good standing with the state bar. I'm working with my physicians and attorney in having the record mitigated.”

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Michael K. Cernyar, Esq. A Professional Corporation
  • 2005 - Present
  • Attorney
  • The Cochran Firm
  • 2004 - 2005
  • Attorney/Law Clerk
  • Law Offices of Charles Pereyra-Suarez
  • 2001 - 2004

Education

  • Loyola Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2001
  • California State University, Long Beach
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996
  • Purdue University
  • 1978

Legal Cases

  • People v. Kibriya
  • All cyberstalking & harassment charges dismissed at prelim
  • People v. McCahon
  • Murder charge dismissed at prelim
  • People v. Robert Blake
  • Acquitted of Murder
View all legal cases

Associations

  • United States District Court for the Northern District of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2013 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth Circuit
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2007 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Southern District of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2006 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2004 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Central District of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2003 - Present
  • State Bar of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2003 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Attorney Member
  • 2002 - Present
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • State Bar of California, Criminal Law Section
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Internet Attorneys Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • American Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Los Angeles County Criminal Courts Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Criminal Courts Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Footprinters #58
  • Member
  • N/A
  • NORML Legal Committee
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • California Public Defenders Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Federal Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Beverly Hills Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Croatian Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Los Angeles County Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Harbor Winds II
  • Secretary
  • 2001 - 2005
  • Harbor Winds II
  • Past Secretary/Treasurer
  • 1995 - 2000
  • Harbor Winds II
  • President
  • 1991 - 1994
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Lawyer of the Year
  • American Institute of Legal Professionals
  • 2021
  • Top 10 Attorneys
  • American Jurist Institute
  • 2021
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2021
  • Elite Lawyer
  • Elite Lawyers of America
  • 2020
  • Litigator of the Year
  • American Institute of Trial Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Top 40 Civil Rights Settlements
  • TopVerdict
  • 2019
  • Excellence in Litigation
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • 2018
  • Top Lawyers
  • Legal Network
  • 2017
  • Distinguished Lawyer
  • Expert Network
  • 2017
  • Top Lawyers In California
  • The Legal Network
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top Lawyers In California
  • American Lawyer Media
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyer (nominated)
  • LegalForce Media
  • 2008
  • Top Criminal Attorney (nominated)
  • The Cochran Firm
  • 2005
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • St. Anthony Career Day
  • Career Day
  • 2014
  • St. Anthony's Career Day
  • Career Day
  • 2013
  • Chapman University School of Law: Nexus Journal of Law and Policy Symposium-Privacy and the Internet
  • Privacy & the Internet
  • 2013
  • Tincher School Law Day
  • Law Day
  • 2008
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (64)
Given (28)
Endorse Michael
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"In the course of my career as a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles I have had the honor and privilege to know dozens and dozens of criminal defense lawyers. I have known a handful whom I would recommend without hesitation to a potential client or fellow lawyer. Among such handful, there is a few, no more than perhaps 3 or so, whom I would trust without slightest hesitation if I ever found myself in trouble. Michael is among the elite criminal defense attorneys whom I can always rely on for help and advice and who, I know from personal experience, always provides the best client representation possible. Michael is an excellent and experienced attorney with significant intellectual and writing skills, as well as great courtroom presence and trial experience. One cannot go wrong with Michael. I endorse him without any reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael is an intelligent aggressive and compassionate attorney who will fight the good fight for his clients. I would gladly refer him any case in Southern California. I endorse this lawyer."
Business Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Business Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael Devereux is a modern Renaissance man - his areas of legal expertise being both broad and deep. His client satisfaction ratings are similarly outstanding. I endorse this lawyer. WM"
Computer fraud Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Devereux is undoubtedly a top notch attorney who has skillfully mastered his primary area of practice over the course of his professional experience. His sharp critical thinking and flawless work ethic are perhaps the key qualities which ensured the success of a remarkable number of his cases. I endorse this lawyer and encourage anyone who needs superior legal representation to opt for his services."
Computer fraud Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Michael is a well-regarded and driven attorney who has provided exceptional legal representation to numerous clients throughout the U.S. With his extensive knowledge, broad experience and impressive professional skills, he is bound to invest his time and energy into achieving the best outcome for each case, regardless of its level of complexity."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I cannot believe I have not endorsed Mr. Devereux before now. He has posted years of answers that are accurate, analytic, and customized to the needs of the Avvo askers. These are exactly the qualities that every client would look for when hiring an attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A highly skilled attorney who is well respected in the legal community. I endorse this lawyer."
Internet Attorney | Jan 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
General practice Attorney | Nov 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Devereux provides consistently accurate and helpful answers to Avvo Askers. He is a very knowledgeable and experienced attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Michael since my first days as a criminal lawyer 12 years ago. He was then, and is now, one of the best attorneys I have known. He is passionate, caring and goes the extra mile for each client."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I know Attorney Devereux by reputation. He is very skillful and very experienced."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 05
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. I have read many of the answers given by this attorney. I can say that the answers are well done and give solid advice."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike is an excellent and dedicated attorney. He works tirelessly for his clients and has great results. I have no hesitation in endorsing him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Other
"Mr. Devereux is a fine lawyer who fights hard for his clients. I endorse his work."
View more endorsements
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Beverly Hills Federal crime Lawyer Michael Sean Devereux
Michael Sean Devereux
Federal crime Attorney
Beverly Hills, CA
Licensed for 20 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available
This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2022. See details