Leonard Manalo

Leonard Manalo

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 13 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Pasadena, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Juvenile ... +3 more

680 East Colorado Boulevard Ste. 180, Pasadena, CA

About Leonard

Biography

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in California for 13 years

State: California

Acquired: 2013

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Leonard Manalo

680 East Colorado Boulevard Ste. 180, Pasadena, CA, 91101

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Leonard Manalo's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

126 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 123 reviews | 5 stars

Posted by carlo | October 08, 2026 | Hired Attorney

“Exceptional Lawyers Who Turned One of the Hardest Moments of Our Lives Around”

First of all, I am writing this review on behalf of my spouse and myself because we simply want to express our deepest gratitude to our lawyers, Counsel Karthik Krishnan and Counsel Leonard Manalo. To begin with, we honestly had no idea what to do when my spouse unexpectedly became involved in a c...riminal case. We were both overwhelmed, confused, and extremely stressed—to the point that we even considered going back to the Philippines. We are both Filipino, and we had only recently arrived in America when we suddenly encountered this difficult situation, involving another Filipino. I won’t go into the details of the case because, if possible, we would rather not relive that experience. We started searching for lawyers who could help us, and thankfully, we found Law Office of Karthik Krishnan and contacted them right away. Their response was incredibly fast, and from there, we were able to speak with them immediately. Attorney Karthik Krishnan was the first attorney we spoke with and the first one to handle our case. He is an excellent lawyer—very confident, strong, and someone you can truly feel has the ability and determination to defend you. However, since we are Filipino, he felt that it would be better for us to work with his fellow Filipino attorney, Attorney Leonard Manalo. We jokingly call him “small but terrible” hahaha! Why? Because he is the complete opposite of Attorney Karthik Krishnan. Attorney Leonard is calm, soft-spoken, and seemingly quiet, but just like Attorney Karthik, he knows exactly what he is doing and how to handle a case. All you need to do is explain everything honestly and clearly to them so they can understand the situation and determine the best approach and solution for your case. From the beginning until the very end of our case, they never left us on our own. Whenever we had questions about the process, they took the time to explain everything to us and tell us what we needed to do. They were also very understanding and cooperative when it came to payment arrangements. They are truly compassionate and understanding lawyers. We are incredibly grateful that we found them and that they helped us get our case dismissed. Our case was handled at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in Downtown Los Angeles. What we went through was extremely difficult and stressful, especially because we were just starting our new life in America. But because of the help and guidance of these attorneys, the process became much easier, and they helped ease our fears and worries along the way. So, to anyone looking for a lawyer to help with their case, especially a criminal case, we highly recommend Attorney Karthik Krishnan, Attorney Leonard Manalo, and the Law Office of Karthik Krishnan team. We can personally say this because we experienced their dedication and professionalism firsthand. Thank you so much again to the entire law firm for helping us through one of the most difficult experiences of our lives. We will always be grateful for everything you have done for us. Maraming, maraming salamat po, and more power to all of you!

Posted by Austin Arevalo | September 29, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Reliability & honesty

Mr. Manalo was assigned to my case. From the beginning, it was evident he was prompt. I never had issues with getting ahold of Mr. Manalo at any time, especially during business hours. After every phone call, text, or meeting: I got the impression my case wasn’t just another case to him. I felt he wo...rked tirelessly & rigorously on my case. During the court process, he was very kind, direct, & had an end goal. He was attentive to my situation & asked the right questions. I felt comfortable that my case was in his hands. After the few times we attended court & they’d offer a resolution, he’d let me know, I would give my thoughts. Then, with that he’d go back & get the absolutes best done. Even post-resolution, Leo Manalo continues to be there to offer input. In my honest opinion, he’s what every lawyer should aspire to be. - Austin Arevalo, client since 2024

Posted by anonymous | August 27, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Great Lawyer for Orange County, reduced charges significantly

He was an extremely understanding and helpful lawyer. He did a great job keeping facts straight and didn't sugarcoat anything while also making me feel comforted and safe. He was able to drop the charges from felonies to misdemeanors and saved me lots of money/prison time. Without him, I don't know w...here I would be in terms of my life and future. He was easily accessible, quick to respond, and very confident in his knowledge. I would recommend him to anybody going through any criminal issues in orange county.

Posted by Soo | February 22, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Won my case. Professional & concise

Leo partnered with my other attorney Karthik Krishnan to resolve my felony case with the EDD. Leo was kind, professional, and responded to me every time I messaged or called him. He was concise, to the point, and listened to me. He believed in my case. He helped me beat it with Karthik.Leo represent...ed me twice in court. The judge dismissed it and I only had to pay the overpayment of $1,800. The time period in which I was accused was dismissed as it was found to be (electronic) fraud with the DA & my attorneys. I would recommend Leo for a criminal case any day. I highly recommend him to anyone in Los Angeles area.

Posted by anonymous | October 02, 2025 | Hired Attorney

Exceptional Legal Services

I cannot speak highly enough of Leo Manalo and the exceptional legal representation he provided during one of the most challenging times in my life. From the very first moment I reached out for help, Leo demonstrated the professionalism and dedication that sets him apart from other attorneys. What i...mpressed me most was his immediate responsiveness – he responded within just 15 minutes of my contacting his website on a Sunday morning, showing his genuine commitment to his clients even outside traditional business hours. Throughout my case, he maintained this level of accessibility, always being responsive to my texts and patiently answering every question I had, no matter how small. Leo's professional demeanor and extensive knowledge of the law gave me confidence during an uncertain time. He thoroughly explained possible outcomes and kept me informed throughout the entire process. His navigation of the process was also evident that he has cultivated excellent working relationships with prosecutors, court staff and judges – relationships that clearly benefit his clients. Beyond his professional qualities, Leo is incredibly punctual and reliable. Most importantly, his legal expertise made all the difference in my case. He successfully secured a Judicial Diversion program for me, which ultimately resulted in my case being dismissed after I completed the program. This outcome literally saved my career, and I cannot overstate how grateful I am for his skillful representation. Leo Manalo is truly a master of his craft, and I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal counsel. His combination of legal knowledge, professionalism, responsiveness and genuine care for his clients makes him an outstanding attorney. I am forever grateful for everything he did for me.

See All Client Reviews

Leonard Manalo's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Leonard
Neeraj Dayal Singh headshot
Neeraj Singh

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Leo for criminal matters out of San Diego County."

Michael Anthony Scafiddi headshot
Michael Scafiddi

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Leo is a hard charging attorney who has great skills and a passion to defend his clients."

John Murray headshot
John Murray

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 17

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Leo is an incredibly smart lawyer whose work ethic makes all the difference for his clients."

Arash V Sadat headshot
Arash Sadat

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Leo is passionate, intelligent, and has extensive knowledge of nearly every aspect of criminal law and procedure. He is truly an exceptional attorney."

Michael Vicente Castillo headshot
Michael Castillo

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Daria A. Panoff headshot
Daria Panoff

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"I'm proud Leonard works in the California branch of our law firm. In a few short years Leonard has established himself as a force of nature in the criminal defense community. His competence is matched only by his compassion."

Michael Becker headshot
Michael Becker

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Leo works in the California office of our law firm. I hear nothing but great things, and we gladly refer our clients with California cases to Leo and his fellow Shouse Law Group attorneys."

Daniel R. Page headshot
Daniel Page

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Leo's the real deal. Defending clients is his calling. I wish everyone facing criminal charges could have someone like Leo representing them."

Adam Solinger headshot
Adam Solinger

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Leonard Manalo is a credit to the legal community. He does everything possible in pursuit of excellent resolutions for his clients."

Amber R. Fuhriman headshot
Amber Fuhriman

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Leo is an unstoppable workhorse of an attorney. He rises to every occasion and exceeds all expectations. Shouse Law Group is so lucky to have him."

Andrey I. Plaksin headshot
Andrey Plaksin

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 25

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Leo is a top notch criminal defense lawyer. He successfully convinced a tough judge to recall a felony warrant, reduced a cocaine possession case from a felony to a misdemeanor and placed the case on track for dismissal. Very happy with his work and will gladly refer more clients to him."

Karthik Krishnan headshot
Karthik Krishnan

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Manalo is an exceedingly professional and tireless advocate for clients. I have had the pleasure of working with him on a number of matters and each time I am impressed with the diligence and dedication he gives to his clients' cases. If you are looking for a fighter with compassion, you'd be hard pressed to find someone better. I strongly endorse him."

Neil Shouse headshot
Neil Shouse

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 11

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"A very effective advocate for his clients."

Ninaz Saffari headshot
Ninaz Saffari

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 11

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I've worked closely with Leo on a number of cases. He's an outstanding lawyer: always prepared, versed on the law, and relentless in his advocacy. He's a great attorney to have on your side."

David Francis Poblete headshot
David Poblete

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 08

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Leo is an excellent lawyer who works hard, cares deeply about his cases and his clients, knows the system, and consistently comes away with great results."

View All Endorsements
Neeraj Dayal Singh headshot
Neeraj Singh

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Anthony Scafiddi headshot
Michael Scafiddi

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark Thomas Russ headshot
Mark Russ

Criminal defense lawyer

Elisa Marie-Ann Guadan headshot
Elisa Guadan

Criminal defense lawyer

Adam Solinger headshot
Adam Solinger

Criminal defense lawyer

Karthik Krishnan headshot
Karthik Krishnan

Criminal defense lawyer

John Murray headshot
John Murray

Criminal defense lawyer

Neil Shouse headshot
Neil Shouse

Criminal defense lawyer

David Francis Poblete headshot
David Poblete

Criminal defense lawyer

Ninaz Saffari headshot
Ninaz Saffari

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2023

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2023

Top 40 under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2020

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2018

Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys Under 40 In California, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2017

10 Best for Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

2011

James Irvine Swinden Scholar, Loyola Law School

Work Experience

2020 - Present

Principal Attorney, Law Offices of Leonard Manalo

2014 - 2022

Criminal Defense Attorney, Shouse Law Group

2011 - 2013

Criminal Defense Attorney, Margolin & Lawrence

2011 - 2011

Legal Assistant, Disability Rights Legal Center

2007 - 2008

Investigative Intern, San Diego Public Defender's Office

Associations

2013 - Present

United States District Court for the Central District of California

2013 - Present

United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth Circuit

2011 - Present

State Bar of California

Sample of Legal Cases

Illegal Search Leads to Exclusion of 7 grams of cocaine and 1 pound of mushrooms

Case Dismissed

Petty theft charges to be reduced after community service

Case Dismissed

Rape Allegations Not Filed

Case Note Rejected

See More Legal Cases

Education

2011

Loyola Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

2006

San Francisco State Unv

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2013

AB Samahan High School Conference

Asian American Engagement in Legal Profession

Publications

2023

Manalolaw.net DUI Primer

Languages

English

Tagalog

Avvo Rating

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  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
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