Russell Sheridan Babcock

Russell Sheridan Babcock

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 44 years

Federal crime Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Federal Crime, Criminal Defense, White Collar Crime, Appeals

1901 First Avenue #138, San Diego, CA

About Russell

Biography

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Federal Crime 60%

I practice both in state and federal court and have traveled to Russia, Mexico, Panama, Ecuador, and Colombia as well as appearing in more than ten state courts to help my clients.

44 years | 800 cases

60%
Criminal Defense 25%

I have worked in the San Diego area more than twenty years in criminal defense and have handled every kind of case from death penalty to DUI's

44 years | 3,000 cases

25%
White Collar Crime 10%

I handle complex money laundering, structuring, fraud, and baking crimes.

44 years | 200 cases

10%
Appeals 5%

I have defended individuals on appeal for more than two decades and was named the Appellate Attorney of the Year for San Diego in 1998.

44 years | 500 cases

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Hourly Rates

$ 400-450 per hour

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in California for 44 years

State: California

Acquired: 1981

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Colorado for 38 years

State: Colorado

Acquired: 1987

Dismissed

No misconduct found

Licensed in Alaska for 43 years

State: Alaska

Acquired: 1982

Suspended

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Russell Sheridan Babcock

1901 First Avenue #138, San Diego, CA, 92101

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Russell Sheridan Babcock's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

111 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 111 reviews

Posted by anonymous | June 29, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Second opportunity given/ Life handed back to me

About two years and some months ago my life was stripped away from me after I was taken advantage of my a so called friend. I was arrested and without my knowledge i was carrying nearly 140lbs of contraband which led to my arrest. I was released and a year later i was round up by federal agencies and... managed to post bail in order to continue my nursing studies. After another years long work, managing court days, work schedules, and school schedules I was able to receive a dismissal of my case which allows me to be a free man walking once again. This second opportunity of life is never going to be taken for granted as I was facing a minimum of 10 years, and a maximum of life in federal prison. Russel is a one of a kind lawyer who will stick by your side no matter what, as long as you work with him and give him all the information he needs from you. Honesty is important with Russel as he can’t do his best work without all the details of any case. Thank you Russel for a second chance.

Posted by Andrew | June 28, 2026 | Hired Attorney

INCREDIBLE DISMISSAL with the help from Attorney Russell Babcock!!!

In 2024, my son who just turned 18 years old had been taken advantage of his kindness. My son was basically used as a “Blind Mule.” There are key events that I will not get into, but my son was arrested for transportation of a controlled substance. It weighed over 130 pounds. My wife and I went to t...he PD to pick up our son and he gave me a ticket that listed what he was being charged for. My family’s world was turned upside down. The very next day, we began to search online for attorneys who practiced in drug cases. We called a number and it was answered by Russell Babcock. We explained the details and the events and were given a quote to retain Mr. Babcock. We reviewed Mr. Babcock’s client reviews and we felt that Russell was the right person who can defend our son. Without hesitation, we paid the retaining fee and Russell began to work with my son over video call in the evening. Days and months went by with no updates from the DA. Russell constantly kept in contact with me and my son through text messages, phone calls and emails. Russell introduced us to his counterpart who lives outside of the USA who is also an attorney. Her name is Nathalia. Nathalia is well over 3,000 miles outside of the USA. But she is just a call or text message away. Nathalia kept in close contact with my son and I when Russell needed info such as documentation and evidence to help in my son’s situation. A full year went by with no word from law enforcement. Just over one year after my son got arrested; he was picked up by various law enforcement agencies and taken into custody. I immediately called Russell to let him know that my son was taken away and that we had no idea where he was being held. Russell then advised us that in order for my son to have full legal representation, we needed to pay to have full representation for our son. Again, my wife and I without hesitation, paid for Russell’s services. When my son went before the judge, Russell used our initial retaining fee to post bail for our son. Soon enough, my son was out on bail and back home. Russell and Nathalia maintained contact with us at every step of the way. We all maintained constant communications at all times to know what the status was on the case or when further interviews where needed between my son and Russell.. Russell told us that my sons case was not going to be easy due to the amount on contraband that was seized, but that the case should go smoothly because my son had a job, attended college full time, and a handful of Letters of Characters from family and friends. We attended numerous Motion Hearings for the next 15 months. After each Hearing, Russell explained of a plan that he has to take this case on. Russell would reassure my wife and I that the case is looking good but anything can happen. Russell and the prosecuting attorney decided that the best course of action was to have my son stand before a Grand Jury. Weeks went by and we got our day in court. The prosecuting attorney advised the Judge that the drug charge is being exonerated and that the case is being dismissed. The judge told my son, “You are a free man.” Russell and Nathalia are a super incredible team. If it wasn’t for Russell and Nathalia, my son would of not walked out of the US Federal court a free man. Our son was looking at a maximum of Life in Prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years with a $10 million fine. Because of Russell and Nathalia’s hard work and dedication, my son walks free. Thank you so very much Russell and Nathalia!! I HIGHLY recommend Russell Babcock. He will walk with you with the help of his attorney partner Nathalia every step of the way.

Posted by Daniel | June 20, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Really good results.

Russell is an exceptional attorney. He was very thorough with my case and explored every angle to get the best result possible. Federal cases can be very difficult, and proper representation is imperative. I actually found Russell through reviews like these, and I'm very grateful I did. I had two ...complicated cases, and he was able to get the best outcome available in both. With over 20 years of experience on both the prosecution and defense sides, he knows the ins and outs of the courtroom and was meticulous throughout the entire process. I listened to his advice and did everything he asked of me, and he was able to help me get the least amount of time possible. Being charged at either the federal or state level is stressful and nerve-racking, but with Russell on my team, I felt secure throughout the process. He saved me a lot of time and was worth every penny. I've worked with him twice already and wouldn't hesitate to hire him again or recommend him to anyone going through a difficult legal situation.

Posted by Hvl | May 17, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Minimo de 10 años federales sentenciado a 15 meses

Rcomiendo mucho alos abogados rusel babcock y a nathalia siekavizza por que me ayudaron en un caso federal que enfrentava el minimo obligatorio de 10 años que fue muy muy dificil para mi y mi familia donde me preguntava cuantos años de mi vida iva estar en la prision y de meses de trabajo con ellos m...e lograron sentenciarme a 15 meses que fue un milagro pero para ese milagro tuvieron un gran tabajo ellos fue la mejor decision aver los elejido por que son muy sinceros amables y cuando nosotros llo y mi familia teniamos dudas siempre estavan ellos para aclararlas en cual kier momento por que contestan las llamadas en cual kier momento de angustia y siempre estan pendientes de todo si tienes un caso federal no dudes un poquito en contactarlos por que rusel babcock y nathalia siekavizza me. Cambiaron la vida tamvien lo pueden aser contigo ellos ablan con los echos de tanto trabajo con mi sentencia de 15 meses agradecidos siempre vamos a estar con ellos

Posted by Gerardo | March 10, 2026 | Hired Attorney

You need someone like Mr. Russell Babcock on your team !

Mr. Russell I cannot thank you enough for everything you did for me. After my public defender was trying to pressure me to sign a 5-10 year plea agreement ,I knew I needed someone who truly had my best interests at heart. When I hired Mr. Russell, he took the time to walk me through every detail of m...y case, patiently answering every question I had and I had allot . Every call was returned promptly, and his entire team was always on top of things. My family and I always felt supported. Today, I am writing this review because I am free , I was granted time served with probation. Mr. Russell didn’t just speak for me he spoke passionately to the lawyers and to the judge. I saw him shine in the courtroom, and I developed a deep respect for him . He understood the assignment. I wasn’t just another case. I am beyond grateful my life, my freedom, and my family’s happiness are all because of him. If you’re ever faced with a tough decision, don’t settle Mr. Russell will go above and beyond. I will forever be in his debt. Thank you again. Russel Babcock and your team !

See All Client Reviews

Russell Sheridan Babcock's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Russell
Knut Sveinbjorn Johnson headshot
Knut Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 05

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Russell and I worked together on a difficult bank robbery case and he was able to secure a fantastic deal for his client. He works hard, is very committed, and he is a terrific lawyer."

George Fredrick Mueller headshot
George Mueller

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Unquestionably competent, consistently conscientious, endlessly hardworking, always helpful, and highly dedicated, it is well-known this exceptional lawyer is an excellent trial attorney who is a tremendous asset to the Defense Bar community. Any person in need who hires this superb attorney will know he or she is in capable hands. For a number of positive reasons, I am honored to endorse Mr. Babcock."

Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Russell is an exceptional criminal defense attorney whose reputation speaks for itself. Highly recommended lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | May 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Russell. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Donte Terrill Wyatt headshot
Donte Wyatt

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Babcock is an excellent attorney. I have had the opportunity to view him in trial as an opposing counsel. Attorney Babcock was aggressive, prepared and a strong advocate for his client. He ultimately prevailed in the matter in which we were opposed. Attorney Babcock is very knowledgeable of the law. His experience as a former prosecutor combined with years of experience as a criminal defense attorney makes him one of the best attorneys in San Diego County. I recommend him without reservation."

James Nelson Dicks headshot
James Dicks

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"This attorney works very hard for the client and keeps up with the law by attending legal seminars to assist them in this regard. I endorse this attorney."

Michael Shemtoub headshot
Michael Shemtoub

Appeals lawyer | Sep 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Your resume speaks for itself and I consider you a valuable member of the attorney community. I would recommend you to anyone and everyone who needs your services. I whole heartedly endorse this lawyer!"

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

Unknown lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Daniel Martin Smith headshot
Daniel Smith

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I go to Russ for advice in many cases. He has incredible experience and is highly intelligent. Prosecutors know they have their hands full when Russ is involved. Great lawyer."

Robert Michael Garland headshot
Robert Garland

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 13

Relationship: Friend

"Russell is a very hard worker and an intelligent advocate. I have watched him at trials and he develops a great rapport with the jury. He is very skilled and a great lawyer. I recommend him highly."

James Cannon Huber headshot
James Huber

Appeals lawyer | Oct 20

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I endorse this lawyer's work."

Michael Stephen Berg headshot
Michael Berg

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse russell's work. i have known him for over 25 years and once worked with him in the anchorage, alaska city prosecutor's office. he is intelligent, hard-working and cares a great deal about each of his clients."

Samuel Eugene Spital headshot
Samuel Spital

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 05

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I fully endorse this lawyer's work. Russell Babcock is a fellow criminal defense lawyer in the community with whom I have known and worked together for nearly 25 years. He is a "lawyer's lawyer," dedicated to getting results and satisfying his clients. Russ works 24/7 and has also obtained recognition by his peers, having received the "Super Lawyer" award for 2008 and 2009. We continue to associate on countless criminal matters, thereby giving our respective clients the benefit of our team approach to strategize legal issues, facts and circumstances."

C. Logan McKechnie headshot
C. McKechnie

General practice lawyer | Apr 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"This is one of the hardest working and most talented lawyers who works very hard for his clients."

View All Endorsements
Benjamin Jerome Cheeks headshot
Benjamin Cheeks

Criminal defense lawyer

Donte Terrill Wyatt headshot
Donte Wyatt

Criminal defense lawyer

James Nelson Dicks headshot
James Dicks

Criminal defense lawyer

Ryan Thomas Mardock headshot
Ryan Mardock

Criminal defense lawyer

Mary Frances Prevost headshot
Mary Prevost

Criminal defense lawyer

Robert Michael Garland headshot
Robert Garland

Family lawyer

James Cannon Huber headshot
James Huber

Appeals lawyer

Cesar Luna headshot
Cesar Luna

Immigration lawyer

Michael Stephen Berg headshot
Michael Berg

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael L. Crowley headshot
Michael Crowley

Criminal defense lawyer

Knut Sveinbjorn Johnson headshot
Knut Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer

Samuel Eugene Spital headshot
Samuel Spital

Administrative law lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2019

Client's Choice, Avvo

2009

Super Lawyer (top 5% of lawyers), Super Lawyers

2008

Super Lawyer (Top 5% of lawyers), Super Lawyers

2007

Kudos (Acquittal in First Degree Murder Case, San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association

2004

Kudos (Acquittal in Largest Maritime Drug Case), San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association

1998

Appellate Attorney of the Year (Reversal of Life Case), San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association

1995

Certified Criminal Law Specialist, State Bar of California

1981

Top 15% of Law School Class, University of California, Davis

1978

Top University Student Rhetoric/Communication, University of California, Davis

1977

Phi Beta Kappa (top 1% of class), University of California, Davis

Work Experience

1990 - Present

Owner, Law Office of Russell S. Babcock

1991 - 1992

Special Prosecutor, District Attorney's Office

1988 - 1990

Attorney, Rosner and Law

1987 - 1988

Supervising Assistant Attorney General, Attorney General's Office

1982 - 1987

Assistant District Attorney, District Attorney's Office

1982 - 1982

Deputy District Attorney, District Attorney's Office

Associations

2007 - Present

Moot Court Judge, Finals

University of San Dego School of Law

1994 - Present

Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals

Practicing Attorney

1994 - Present

United States District Court Southern District of MIchigan

Practicing Attorney

1991 - Present

California Public Defenders Association

Member

1991 - Present

California Appellate Defense Counsel

Member

1991 - Present

Criminal Justice Act (CJA Panel)

Member

1991 - Present

Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals

Practicing Attorney

1991 - Present

United States District Court for the Southern District of California

Practicing Attorney

1998 - 2000

William Enright Inn of Court

Barrister

Sample of Legal Cases

People v. Covarubbias

Acquittal all charges, including murder

People v. Chagovic

Client acquitted of all charges

People v. Kasim

Life Sentence reversed on appeal, defendant freed

See More Legal Cases

Education

1981

University of California at Davis School of Law

Juris Doctor

1978

University of California, Davis

A.B.

Speaking Engagements

2000

Youth in Cuba

State of Education for Children in Cuba

Publications

2016

Fiction Novel Based on my experience defending drug smuggling cases The Blind Mule

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
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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