Skip to main content

Benjamin Ray Cates

also known as Ben Cates
  Save
Avvo Rating10
  • Temecula, CA
  • Licensed for 11 years
See more Temecula Criminal Defense lawyersSearch
AboutContactReviewsCost

About Benjamin

Former United States Marine, now fighting for you to protect your freedom and rights.

Practice areas

OtherDomestic violenceSex crimeDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 25%

    12 years, 500 cases

  2. DUI and DWI: 25%

    12 years, 500 cases

  3. Sex crime: 20%

  4. Domestic violence: 20%

  1. Expungement: 10%

Languages spoken

English

Contact

43460 Ridge Park Dr., Suite 200F
address map

Cates Law Office - Temecula Location

43460 Ridge Park Dr., Suite 200F
Temecula, CA, 92590

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
CAActive200810/27/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers2
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers Association2016
Client's Choice AwardAvvo2015
Top 40 Under 40National Trial Lawyers2015
Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers2015
DUI CertificateCalifornia Attorneys for Criminal Justice2015
DUI CertificateCalifornia DUI Lawyers Association2015
Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers Association2014
Top 40 under 40National Trial Lawyers Association2014
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
AttorneyLaw Offices of Benjamin Cates2015 - Present
Volunteer AttorneyLegal Aid Society Of San Bernardino, Inc.2008 - Present
AttorneyLaw Offices Of Michael A. Scafiddi, Inc.2008 - 2015
ClerkLaw Offices of Aaron L. Turner2007 - 2008
SergeantUnited States Marine Corps1994 - 2000
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember2015 - Present
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember2015 - Present
California DUI Lawyers AssociationMember2011 - Present
San Bernardino County Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
Riverside County Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
San Diego County Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
Orange County Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaMember2008 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
California Southern Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2008
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
In house trainingDUI Law at the DMV2014
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Third DUILicense retained
Peo. v. Mike D.Wet Reckless
Peo v. Jose R.Misdemeanor Dismissed
Peo v. Tom C.Dismissal
Peo. v. Derek H.Dismissal
Peo v. Sochilt V.Dismissal

Reviews

(28)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Benjamin Cates

The best choice!

Posted by

Ben by far is the best Attorney I have hired. As a mom of a defendant he made me feel so comfortable through the whole process, he was honest and calm which is exactly what this nervous mother needed. He kept his word and explained every detail step by step through the process. The outcome was better than we imagined it would be. I thank God he was with us in the courtroom and would reccomend him to anyone in our situation. Highly experienced and a top notch Attorney!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Client

Posted by

Benjamin is an excellent attorney. Resolved my case in less than a month. He took care of everything himself; not once did I have to make a court appearance. He is extremely friendly and very easy to talk to. He answers any questions you may have and explains everything very well. He got me the results I wanted and desperately needed. I was extremely satisfied with his services. Would definitely recommend.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great lawyer

Posted by

Ben Cates represented me in 2017 in a multiple felonies' case. I only did 3 months in county jail. He's a great lawyer and a good humbled man. He was always at my court dates even when ill. Well worth it.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Always Faithful

Posted by

I contacted him to get my probation modified. Ben did better then that, Ben got my probation terminated and had my record expunged. Ben was in constant contact with me, keeping me up to date on the status of the case. Ben appeared on my behalf at the hearing. I felt confident having Ben representing me. You are in good hands with him handling your case.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Lawyer

Posted by

Ben worked very hard to get me an amazing deal on a complicated DUI/drug case. He gave me a very affordable rate and was extremely communicative and helpful Iin every way. I cannot say enough about how dedicated he was throughout my 2-year case. I ended up with a great outcome and highly recommend him.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Look no where else Ben is the best!!!

Posted by

I was looking at 3-5 years for a felony dui and Ben kept me out of jail! And got the charges dropped to a misdemeanor. He was very professional and answered all my questions and was always available. Look no where else Ben is the perfect lawyer to defend you!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Very thorough and caring

Posted by

I called Ben Cates' office in a panic. My husband and I had contacted other offices but they were very vague and we never actually got to speak with a lawyer. Ben himself called me back right away after I left a message at his office and spoke with me about our case! I didn't feel rushed at all, he made me feel like he really cared to give us as much info as he could about what we should do. He even gave us advice against what that another office had told us to do and went into detail as to why we shouldn't do it. He gave us tips and my peace of mind back which was something I hadn't had in quite a while. I can't say enough about this lawyer and that's just from an over the phone consultation! Highly recommend!
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Exceptional

Posted by

Benjamin did his job without any flaws representing me, I highly recommend him!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A Life Saver

Posted by

My case was not looking good. I was looking at prison time for felony DUI. Out of all the attorneys I consulted with he was the only one who gave me hope and made me feel comfortable. He was also the only attorney to not hear the DMV hearing over the phone, but in person. Of which he won, getting my license with no restrictions. I didn't have to spend a day in jail thanks to Ben. He is the real deal.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A client who admires and respect Mr. Cates the most.

Posted by

Mr. Cates is an Outstanding Attorney. Beside his extremely knowledge and diligence, he always treated his client with cares, compassion and thoughtfulness. Mr. Cates always listened to his client patiently and responsed to the phone calls and texts as soon as possible. Mr. Cates also keeps all of the informations up-to-date for his client right after he left the Court house. If anyone ever needs a great Lawyer to protect you, I strongly recommend that you should call Mr. Cates Benjamin's office immediately. Your life will be saved. I don't have enough words to describe how much I admire Mr. Cates excellent knowledge and his wonderful personality... All I could say is: "Mr. Cates, I sincerely admire you, respect you and deeply appreciate your help and your support". Best Regards,
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(22)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

James Taylor, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 23, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Ben for many years. He is a hard working attorney. He has a great personality and is well respected in the courts. He is not afraid to put in the late hours.

Jeanne Normandeau, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 16, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I am currently working with Ben on a co-defendant criminal matter. I have been impressed with his knowledge of the law and thorough investigation into the facts of our case. Ben Cates is an experienced and conscientious lawyer that achieves great results for his clients. I strongly endorse Ben Cates to have in your corner if you ever need an experienced criminal lawyer.

Scott Henry, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 15, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Ben is a great attorney with a stellar reputation throughout the legal community. He is respected by Judges, Prosecutors and the Defense Bar throughout Southern California. Mr. Cates truly cares about each and every one of his clients and it shows by the hard work and dedication he puts into each and every case. I without hesitation would recommend him as a great attorney!

Hilda Zamora, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 6, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse Mr. Cates. He fights to protect the rights of his clients and understands the importance and the need for justice. He is a true asset to the practice of criminal defense.

Dawn Kirk, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 12, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ben is the consummate professional and truly cares for his clients. Ben is extremely quick on his feet and is always up to date on the latest case law. Ben is always prepared for whatever hearing, negotiation or trial is coming up and is not afraid to think outside of the box. I highly recommend Ben Cates for all those seeking a competent criminal defense attorney - his clients are lucky to have him on their team.

Jeremy Waitman, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 10, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ben stands out as a lawyer who is passionate about what he does. In a profession where so many lawyers have lost that zeal, it is refreshing to work alongside him in the courtroom.

Jared Bartell, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 9, 2015
Relationship: Friend

Over the years Ben and I have discussed many cases together. I am honored to call him a friend and you would be honored to call him your lawyer.

Ronald Powell, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 5, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer. Ben Cates is an excellent attorney and a credit to our profession. He just completed a trial, and it was amazing to see the time he put in to make sure the client received great representation. Ben Cates is an excellent attorney!

Megan Scafiddi, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 5, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Cates is extremely knowledgable inthe areas of criminal defense, DMV hearings, as well as appeals and writs. Mr. Cates is dedicated to his clients and always gives everything he can when defending them. He works with the team to ensure the best resolution possible. I would recommend Mr. Cates to anyone seeking representation who Is facing with criminal charges.

Scot Neudorff, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 26, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Ben Cates since our days in law school together. Ben was always a strong student who took his studies seriously. He now has that same commitment to becoming the best lawyer he can be. He is very knowledgeable, experienced, and a very good lawyer. I fully endorse Benjamin Cates as a lawyer!

Roderick Daly, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 24, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I wholeheartedly endorse Ben Cates. He is personable, quick-witted, and has a tireless work ethic. He is well respected by both sides of the bar, and commands respect whenever he sets foot in a courtroom. He is very effective lawyer because he is always prepared, knows the nuances of the law, and is able to adapt his legal strategies to fit specific clients and specific courts.

Eric Hunt, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 24, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have had the opportunity to get to know Ben Cates over the past several years. He is a confident and very knowledgeable attorney, who is willing to work until the job is complete. Along with being able to think quickly on his feet, he is also intellectually gifted and able to explore novel approaches to complex areas of law. I highly endorse this lawyer.

Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on May 30, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Stephen Allen, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 21, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Cates for about 4 years and he is an excellent attorney with a lot of experience in the Riverside/San Bernardino courts. A respected, dedicated attorney!

Gary Smith, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 13, 2012
Relationship: Friend

I endorse this lawyer. Ben Cates is my friend. He is a fine lawyer. We tried an attempted murder case together. His background as a Marine was invaluable, as the case involved a former Marine--our client, and all of the witnesses were in the military. Ben knew things that I did not. He saw things that I could not. He is hard-working, dedicated to perfection, and will not be defeated.

Jeffrey Moore, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 7, 2012
Relationship: Co-worker

I have had the privilege of working with Mr. Cates for several months and have had the opportunity to observe his work both in and out of court. He is extremely experienced and skilled with the DMV administrative process, and is a master of DMV-related writs and appeals. In the criminal courts, he is a zealous and knowledgable advocate for his clients. I endorse this lawyer.

Neil Shouse, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 22, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ben Cates is the go-to lawyer for any issues involving the DMV, APS hearings, writs and appeals. He knows the system inside and out and gets terrific results for his clients.

Ricson Dakanay, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 9, 2012
Relationship: Co-worker

Ben Cates is an attorney I can always count on for help and advice.He is very knowledgeable about criminal defense law and exemplifies what it means to be a "zealous advocate". He truly cares about the clients and their needs, and he will to go great lengths in ensuring everything that could be done, was indeed carried out. I consider him a great mentor and a friend. I highly endorse Ben.

Sarah Powell, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 8, 2012
Relationship: Co-worker

I have the pleasure of working with Ben, who I consider a very talented and knowledgeable attorney. He certainly works for the best interest of our clients. His knowledge of the DMV hearing has led to very successful results for our clients. He extremely personable and well-liked by judges, attorneys and clients. I definately endorse his work.

Michael Scafiddi, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 26, 2012
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Ben from the time he started law school. When you meet Ben you immediately notice that he has high energy , is intelligent and truly cares about people. Because of those skills I hired Ben to work in my office and it has been one of the best decisions I have made in my professional career. He is hard working and dedicated to our client and has a burning desire to win. Ben has won numerous DMV hearing for drivers and his legal work lead to the inadmissibility of a critical document used by DMV to take away client licenses. This resulted in set asides (wins) for numerous clients of our office as well as clients for other attorneys whom we shared the information with. Ben continually looks for innovative ways to help his clients. I am proud to say that Ben works for my office but more importantly I am proud of his amazing growth as a lawyer. I strongly endorse Ben Cates !