Ryan Michael Burke

Attorney Ryan Burke is a seasoned criminal defense litigator with valuable experience from his work in the San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office Appellate Division. His background gives him insight into how criminal convictions, appeals, and post-conviction issues are reviewed by the government, allowing him to approach defense cases with precision, strategy, and a deep understanding of criminal procedure.

While at the San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office Appellate Division, Mr. Burke handled complex criminal appeals and post-conviction matters. This experience gave him a strong command of appellate strategy, legal writing, procedural rules, and the detailed analysis required in serious criminal cases.

Attorney Burke successfully obtained a published decision in Esparza v. Superior Court, delivering a decisive appellate victory. The California Court of Appeal overturned the trial court’s decision and agreed with Attorney Burke that a finding of grave disability under the LPS Act does not render a person incompetent to testify. The opinion stands as a clear statement on the limits of competency determinations and the protection of a person’s rights.

In addition to his litigation and appellate work, Attorney Burke has spoken publicly on significant constitutional issues. He was mentioned by The Christian Post after advocating on behalf of a filmmaker arrested while documenting street preaching outside a Planned Parenthood facility in Pomona. Mr. Burke emphasized that the incident raised serious First Amendment concerns involving free speech, freedom of the press, and equal protection under the law.

With comprehensive knowledge of criminal and civil law and procedure, Attorney Burke takes a disciplined, analytical approach to every case. His background allows him to identify legal weaknesses early, anticipate the arguments prosecutors may raise, and position cases for the strongest possible outcome at both the trial and appellate levels.