Catherine Ann Schwartz

PRO

Catherine Ann Schwartz

4.3
Rating: 9.7

Licensed for 34 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Riverside, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Divorce & Separation, Child Support ... +2 more

6877 Magnolia Avenue., Riverside, CA

Free Consultation

About Catherine

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Child Custody 20%

20%
Child Support 20%

20%
Criminal Defense 20%

20%
Divorce and Separation 20%

20%
Domestic Violence 20%

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2015 2014 2013

Licenses

Licensed in California for 34 years

State: California

Acquired: 1991

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Catherine A. Schwartz

6877 Magnolia Avenue., Riverside, CA, 92506

cschwartzlaw.com/

Online Presence

Other places you can find Catherine online.

Catherine Ann Schwartz's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.3 /5.0

58 Client Reviews

Showing 41 - 45 of 58 reviews

Posted by Matthew | May 02, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes

Thank you Catherine!

Catherine was the first lawyer I've met who actually said and completed what she told me she would do. I've never written a review for anything before this but I truly feel it deserves to be heard. This law group stepped up and got the job done. I am extremely thankful for the diligent and caring ef...fort that was put into my case and I never felt I was being taken advantage off or left in the dark about my case. I've experience other lawyers that have only had their best interest in mind and took advantage of me. Catherine and her group always were thoughtful and caring about my case as small as it was. I'm forever thankful for their compassion and hard work.

Posted by Michael | April 25, 2013 | Litigation

Very strong representation in court

I am extremely grateful for all that Ms. Schwartz and her excellent staff have done for me. Her associate attorney Jeremy made opposing counsel look ridiculous in court. He walked all over them and I ended up getting more than I even asked for. They made themselves readily available to answer ques...tions, and even met after hours and communicated to me on weekends when necessary. My case did become costly, but their fees were fair and I did not feel they were trying to penny pinch me. They made sure my case was over as quick as possible. Absolute professionals and I will be recommending them to friends and family.

Posted by anonymous | April 25, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes

Thank you

Ms. Schwartz, I am writing to extend my sincerest appreciation and heartfelt thanks to you and your office. I cannot be happier with the level of service and representation I have received. Mr. Roark and Ms. Masson have been exceptionally diligent in providing me with assistance in my case. Both h...ave made themselves available to answer questions and provide information when I contact the office. I am extremely impressed with the level of attention, detail and knowledge that they display regarding my case. I would not have expected this amount of time, personal commitment, and attention from a law firm. Additionally, Mr. Roark has gone above and beyond his duties as counsel to answer correspondences to the opposing party, which I am sure, has impacted his personal time, including weekends. Mr. Roark has even gone as far as to meet with the opposing party to serve paperwork, and obtain signatures. I appreciate all the time, effort and legal expertise you and your firm have conducted on my case. I understand the case is far from over, but I look forward to our ongoing partnership as my legal issues are resolved.

Posted by G. Allen | April 25, 2013 | Criminal Defense

The Amazing Catherine!

I was recommended to Ms. Schwartz to handle a potentially bad situation that could have ruined my life and that of my family. I called Ms. Schwartz in a panic and she IMMEDIATELY got me in to talk with me (at no charge!). I gave her all of the details of my situation and she spent her personal time... talking things over with me and doing her own research. She contacted various experts and advised me on how to handle the situation should the DA pursue a case against me. Because of her kindness and willingness to listen and help, I was able to dodge a very serious situation that could have sent me to prison and I would have ruined my family and my life! I owe everything to Ms. Schwartz and I will be forever grateful to her as an attorney and a very caring human being. THANK YOU FOR CHANGING MY LIFE!!!!

Posted by KATIE | April 25, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes

CATHERINE CARES!!!!

Ms. Schwartz not only cares about her clients but she and her staff work really hard for every client! The clients who say they are unhappy are simply unhappy LIARS!!!!! I retained Ms. Schwartz and have ONLY had positive experiences! Her rates were MORE THAN fair!! She always called me back and h...er staff is terrific!! Ms. Schwartz not only did an excellent job on my case - she helped me through a very emotional time.

See All Client Reviews

Catherine Ann Schwartz's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Catherine
David Giuseppe Chianello headshot
David Chianello

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 07

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I’ve worked with Ms. Schwartz at the opposite end of counsel table for nearly six years . . . she’s a great attorney. Ms. Schwartz’s legal knowledge, modesty, and charm, coupled with her power of persuasion afford her the ability to connect with judges and juries alike. I have personally seen Ms. Schwartz win cases that others thought were unwinnable; I’ve heard jurors speak about her no-nonsense approach to the law and proving the elements in favor of her case; and I’ve talked with judges who gave glowing reviews of her presentation of evidence and closing arguments. If ever I need the assistance of a criminal defense attorney, I would call Ms. Schwartz first without a doubt."

Marisol Andrea Haro headshot
Marisol Haro

Family lawyer | Aug 07

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I have had the pleasure of working with Cathy inside and outside of court. In all instances I have been impressed by her knowledge, professionalism, and expertise. She is a skilled litigator and astute advocate. She is extremely diligent, hard-working and committed; capable of tackling any issue and opposing counsel. In addition, she is a kind, warmhearted individual who truly cares about her clients and is willing to go the extra mile for them. Cathy’s staff is also deserving of praise. They are talented and professional, each with significant experience and wholly devoted to their clients and work. Cathy and her entire staff are an impressive group that any client would be fortunate to have on their side."

Dean N. Ankouny headshot
Dean Ankouny

General practice lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Malvina K. Ovanezova headshot
Malvina Ovanezova

Family lawyer | May 10

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stacy A Albelais headshot
Stacy Albelais

Family lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Catherine has a great reputation as a skilled advocate."

Jonathan Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Quality representation and exceptional attentiveness to his clients."

Raquel A. Fernandez-Flaherty headshot
Raquel Fernandez-Flaherty

Family lawyer | Apr 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Well respected by her peers and the legal community. Great asset to AVVO."

David S. Soble headshot
David Soble

Family lawyer | Mar 24

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. She is well regarded by both her clients and her peers."

Evelyn Susan Ginossi headshot
Evelyn Ginossi

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Mar 18

Relationship: Other

"I not only endorse this lawyer, I also give them 5 stars."

Tashfeen Ul Haq headshot
Tashfeen Haq

Family lawyer | Mar 05

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse Catherine. Her approach to resolving a case was very no-nonsense and very compassionate. Yet her compassion did not cloud her judgment about the law."

Lyle Dickson headshot
Lyle Dickson

Unknown lawyer | Jan 18

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Matt Bryant headshot
Matt Bryant

Family lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Robert Lawrence Cohen headshot
Robert Cohen

Family lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ryan Jacob Fishman headshot
Ryan Fishman

Civil rights lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nakesha Steffler Dodson Ruegg headshot
Nakesha Ruegg

Family lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Torri headshot
Joseph Torri

Unknown lawyer | Jan 03

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Schwartz was a supervisor while I was at the Riverside County Public Defender's Office. This attorney brings passion in her representation of individuals accused of crimes."

Steven Carl Townsend headshot
Steven Townsend

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I make this endorsement because she is committed to your clients and her profession."

James Thomas Lillard headshot
James Lillard

Family lawyer | Sep 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Catherine is a well respected attorney in the community, straight forward and ethical."

Jillian K. Duggan-Herd headshot
Jillian Duggan-Herd

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Schwartz spends a lot of time responding to questions posted on this website with informative and considerate answers which reflect a high degree of knowledge and expertise. She shows compassion and a willingness to help clients during difficult times. I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Audrey G. Oran headshot
Audrey Oran

Family lawyer

Dean N. Ankouny headshot
Dean Ankouny

Criminal defense lawyer

Christina Laureen Godbey headshot
Christina Godbey

Family lawyer

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Family lawyer

Tashfeen Ul Haq headshot
Tashfeen Haq

Divorce and separation lawyer

Ryan Jacob Fishman headshot
Ryan Fishman

Criminal defense lawyer

Nakesha Steffler Dodson Ruegg headshot
Nakesha Ruegg

Family lawyer

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Criminal defense lawyer

Joseph Torri headshot
Joseph Torri

Family lawyer

Christopher J Whelton headshot
Christopher Whelton

DUI and DWI lawyer

James Thomas Lillard headshot
James Lillard

Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer

Jillian K. Duggan-Herd headshot
Jillian Duggan-Herd

Divorce and separation lawyer

Valerie Lee Murphy headshot
Valerie Murphy

Family lawyer

William W Housley headshot
William Housley

Criminal defense lawyer

Howard E. Knispel headshot
Howard Knispel

Divorce and separation lawyer

Steven Carl Townsend headshot
Steven Townsend

Criminal defense lawyer

Vincent Paul Tolisano headshot
Vincent Tolisano

Personal injury lawyer

Steffanie Ann Walczak headshot
Steffanie Walczak

Criminal defense lawyer

Rizwan M Khalid headshot
Rizwan Khalid

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Kathryn L. Hudson headshot
Kathryn Hudson

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.7 (Superb)

Honors

2015

10.0 Rating, Avvo

2015

Woman of Distinction - Outstanding Leaders of the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Magazine

2014

Top Attorney, Inland Empire Magazine

2014

Superb Attorney Rating, Avvo

2014

Top Attorney in Criminal Defense Award, Avvo

2014

Top Attorney in Family Law Award, Avvo

2014

9.5 Rating, Avvo

2014

4 1/2 star client rating, Avvo

2014

9.3 rating, Avvo

2014

Client's choice recognition award, Avvo

2014

Woman of Distinction - Outstanding Women of the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Magazine

2013

Featured Attorney, YourVilla Magazine

2013

Top Lawyer, Inland Empire Magazine

2011

Board of Directors Award, Soroptimist International of Riverside

2010

Certificiate of Completion - Graduate, Leadership Riverside

1991

Juris Doctorate, Thomas Jefferson School of Law

1990

American Jurisprudence Award, Juvenile Law

1990

American Jurisprudence Award, UCC

1989

American Jurisprudence Award, Criminal Law

Work Experience

2011 - Present

Owner, Law Offices of Catherine A. Schwartz

2012 - 2013

Attorney, Riverside Criminal Defense Panel

2007 - 2011

Attorney, Blumenthal Law Offices

2001 - 2007

Supervising Deputy Public Defender, Law Offices Of The Public Defender, County Of Riverside

1994 - 2001

Public Defender, The Law Offices Of The Public Defender Of Riverside County

1992 - 1994

Attorney, Juvenile Defense Panel

1991 - 1994

Attorney, Law Offices of Catherine A. Schwartz

Associations

2013 - Present

Operation SafeHouse

Board Member

2012 - Present

Soroptomist International of Riverside

Board Member

2012 - Present

Avvo

Member

2012 - Present

Women's Legal Center, Riverside CA

President

1991 - Present

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

Alumni

San Bernardino County Bar Association

Member

Riverside County Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Task Force

Pro Bono Attorney

State Bar of California

Member

Voices for the Children

Advocate

Riverside Chambers of Commerce

Member

Riverside County Bar Association

Member

2010 - 2010

Leadership Riverside

Graduate

2006 - 2007

Juvenile Justice Commission of California

Board Member

2006 - 2007

American Inns of Court

Board Member

1999 - 2001

Paloma Valley High School Mock Trial

Mock Trial Attorney Coach

1990 - 1991

International Law Society

President

1988 - 1999

PALS - Parents Attending Law School

President

Sample of Legal Cases

Child custody and visitation case

Opposing counsel's motion denied.

Riverside criminal defense case

Not guilty on all counts.

Riverside drug possession case

All charges dismissed.

Riverside DUI case.

Case dismissed.

Riverside domestic violence case

Felony reduced to a misdemeanor

Riverside Juvenile Dependency case

Children returned to client, case dismissed.

Riverside murder attempt case

Charges reduced to probation.

Riverside sex offender case

Charges reduced to misdemeanor

Riverside jury trial - murder case.

Verdict of not guilty.

See More Legal Cases

Education

1991

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1980

Philadelphia Christian College

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2015

AVID Program

Criminal Law Procedures

2014

Corona High School

Juveniles Being Prosecuted as Adults

2000

Paloma Valley High School

Attorneys of Tomorrow

Publications

Languages

English

Spanish

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • 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