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Christopher Paul Sohovich

Litigation Attorney at Irvine, CA

5.0   29 reviews

also known as Chris Sohovich


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About Christopher

Learn Christopher’s areas of practice.

Chris Sohovich joined Pacheco & Neach, P.C., as a proven litigator in the criminal and civil arenas with experience as a prosecutor, defense counsel and civil litigator. With an early background clerking for an eminent judge, Chris is a complete litigator who understands the broad risks attendant to trial work and who has demonstrated the ability to overcome obstacles.

His start began at the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, the tenth largest prosecutor’s office in the nation, one that routinely handles 50,000+ cases annually. While there he worked with distinction and moved quickly in the development of his trial skills and experience, handling numerous jury trials to successful conclusions. In one notable trial, Chris prosecuted and convicted a notorious gang member during Riverside County’s first gang injunction. The case had special significance due to a variety of circumstances that occurred right before the trial began that elevated the case to statewide media exposure.

Next Mr. Sohovich founded and operated his own law firm based in San Diego. Chris specialized in white collar and criminal litigation while honing his trial skills on the defense side of the arena. Chris further built on his exceptional abilities in internal investigations that began with his prosecutorial experiences and continued as a white collar defense counsel.

Prior to joining Pacheco & Neach, P.C., Chris expanded his experience into the field of commercial and business litigation. His aptitude was high, which led to many successful outcomes for his clients.

Early on Mr. Sohovich clerked for the Honorable Michael H. Watson at the 10th District Court of Appeals for the State of Ohio during law school and his undergraduate studies. Judge Watson continues to serve as a District Judge in the Southern District of Ohio.

While an individual’s professional accomplishments can be noteworthy, such as Mr. Sohovich’s, they are done in times of relative tranquility. Peril to one’s existence tends to be a more substantial evaluation. At seventeen years of age Chris Sohovich’s desire to serve his country, and to put himself in harm’s way, resulted in his voluntary enlistment in the United States Army. While serving six years Chris was assigned to Psychological Operations and then to Armor. During that service Chris displayed his commitment by earning two Army Achievement Medals and a National Defense Service Medal with an Oakleaf Cluster.

At Pacheco & Neach, P.C., we are looking for a commitment to others, bravery and dedication. Mr. Sohovich was a perfect fit. 

Licensed for 16 years
State CA
Status Active
Acquired 2006
Updated 11/30/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Christopher

Similar lawyers nearby

Pacheco & Neach, PC
3 Park Plaza
Suite 120
Irvine, CA, 92614

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  29 customer reviews
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Posted by Melisa | February 14, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Truly Remarkable!
I’m a active duty military service member with a unfortunate situation that got me into legal trouble. I reached out to Chris after seeing his reviews and boy did I get lucky. He went to court for me and got my charges completely dropped. Best criminal lawyer everrrrr!!!!
Posted by Chelsea Marie Parke | February 5, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Good expirience
I definitely recommend this great attorney. This was my first ticket, he helped me through the entire process, and had my case dismissed, happy ending!
Posted by anonymous | January 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expungment
I was convicted of a DUI in my younger years, and once my probation was successfully completed, I wanted the charge expunged from my record. My original intention was to go through the process myself and save expenses, but quickly realized I would get lost in the legal system if I did. After consulting with a number of DUI lawyers in the area, I spoke with a representative from Sohovich's office. Not only were they professional, but they also offered their services at a price that was LITERALLY 10x LESS than the competitors I had spoken to. (e.g., approx $150 v. $1500). Throughout the process, the same representative kept in touch with me regarding the status of my petition, and quickly sent me documentation of the approved petition as soon as they had it (They even went to the courthouse directly to see what the hold up was when there was a delay). I was very impressed with this service and would genuinely recommend this office to anyone needing a helpful, reasonable lawyer.
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Response from Christopher Sohovich January 21, 2016
Thank you for the review, we are happy you were satisfied with our service. We try to set ourselves apart from the competition by offering personal service. We are even happier we were able to help you in your time of need!
Posted by Joe | November 7, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great help for a tuff time
If your like me this is probably one of the worst things that could happen to you, Chris makes it as seamless as possible, I thought about going it alone, but glad I didn't, Chris will stay with you through the whole process and beyond and keep you informed.
Posted by Tiffany | November 7, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Do yourself a favor and hire Chris
The only positive thing that came out of drinking too much and crashing my car was hiring Chris. Instead of jail time and 9 months of DUI classes I ended up with a 3 month class and community service. He was prompt in answering every question I had and made a very stressful time of my life a lot easier.
Posted by anonymous | November 25, 2014
The BEST
I highly recommend Chris as an expert DUI lawyer. He is very easy going and calm which was a tremendous help when dealing with a stressful situation like a DUI. I trusted Chris 100% as he lead me through this process. I was truly grateful for all the effort he put in on my case! Thank you Chris!
Posted by anonymous | November 11, 2014
Chris saved me from a dui conviction!!
Chris was not only professional and easy to work with he prevented me from having a dui on my record. Chris found a loophole and even saved me from loosing my license. A dui or loss of my license would have ruined my career as it does for many, so before you hire any lawyer that claims to be" THE BEST IN SAN DIEGO" call Christopher Sohovich he is the one you can count on.
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Posted by Carrie | October 13, 2014
Best DUI Attorney in San Diego
Although I did not retain Chris, he helped me decide what choice was best for me when determining my options. After calling several attorneys, I knew Chris was the best option because he was the only one that knew how to handle my case. I was convicted of a DWI 10 years ago in Denver while carrying a California license and was never told I needed to file residency documents to relinquish my California license so I now have to repeat the classes in San Diego to get my license back. Chris sat on the phone with the DMV and also sat on the phone with me and listened to me cry even thought I never paid him a dime. What attorney does that, ever? A genuine, caring attorney who is truly concerned and wants to help people, that's who. There were options that I could have chosen where he could have potentially made a lot of money off of me but he advised I take the classes and not fight with the DMV which saved me thousands of dollars and a lot of time. I am a paralegal so I know what to look for in an attorney and he's got it all. If I ever have another problem or know anyone that does, I'll recommend him to them in a heartbeat. Thank you Chris!
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Posted by anonymous | July 9, 2014
Chris relieved me of a huge nightmare
After making one of the biggest mistakes of my life, I felt nonstop anxiety, fear and humiliation about the DUI. I tried to initially take care of matters on my own, but the system is so large and full of pitfalls, I realized I could not do this alone without a bad result. I called Chris and he walked through the entire process and what the outcomes might be. He was able to get my charge reduced in addition to other charges/infractions dropped (excessive speeding and registration). He took a whole load off my mind while letting me cover my responsibilities at home. Chris is extremely professional and helpful. He doesn't sugar coat things, but he also maintains a real positive attitude. If you made a mistake like me, do yourself a favor and call him.
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Posted by Jerry | March 17, 2014
Best DUI Attorney in San Diego
If you are ever charged with a DUI in the San Diego area look no further than Chris Sohovich for representation. When I was first charged with my DUI I hired a different attorney and ended up having a warrant for my arrest issued because she did not show up to my scheduled arraignment. I was cautious on hiring a new attorney for the fear of being burned again. I called Chris and explained my situation and he immediately took my case before money exchanged hands. I knew from the start Chris was going to work hard on my case. Work hard he did, my case was dismissed. Thank you Chris for working diligently with me, I don't think the outcome would've been the same with the other attorney I had hired.
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Posted by Ava | December 7, 2013
Truly SD's finest
I found Christopher and decided to hire him based on our initial consultation and his Avvo rating. My DUI was life altering affecting my job and marriage. Chris was by my side every step of the way. My case was dismissed and everything is coming together once again. Chris is an honest, realistic and compassionate individual. I owe him so much more than I can ever repay.
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Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2013
Christopher is your guy
Christopher is amazing.I had the help of Christopher and he put me at total ease.He is trustworthy,honest and very reliable.Unlike other attorneys I was able to get in contact with him at all times needed and if he couldnt answer the cell phone he would call me back a.s.a.p.He knows the laws and knows how to protect your rights. I am so glad a friend told me about Chris all the weight had been lifted off my shoulders with my court stress after his help.
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Posted by anonymous | April 16, 2013
I wouldn't go to anyone else!
Chris handled my case professionally and compassionately. He kept me informed every step of the way and explained the process of a DUI in a way that was easy to understand. He gave me hope in a very dark time of my life. He told me we would get through it together and he was 100% right! I was charged with a DUI but came out with a reckless driving charge. No classes and no license suspension! COuld not recommend more highly!
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Posted by anonymous | April 12, 2013
Aggressive and dedicated!
Chris had his hands full with my case…not only was it a difficult legal situation but I was also very upset and confused. I received 2 DUI’s in 3 months. The 2nd involved a driving on a suspended license and a hit and run. He kept me out of jail, out of a treatment program and negotiated a 5th point off my record. He has incredible knowledge of the law and all the processes regarding the DMV and the DUI classes. From the first time I spoke with him all the way through to the end he made me feel confident and secure. I interviewed 3 other lawyers and there was no comparison. He’s fantastic!
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Posted by anonymous | March 11, 2013
Lifesaver!
Mr. Sohovich took care of some very serious legal problems I was having. I didn't go to jail and I was not convicted, despite what other attorneys told me was going to happen. I am so very grateful I had him as my lawyer. If you are reading this, then you would be lucky to have him as yours.
Posted by anonymous | March 11, 2013
Don't waste your time with anyone else!!!!
Chris recently represented me in my first (and only) DUI case. I had a 0.12 and thought I'm getting a DUI. Not only that I was in danger of losing my career. Chris knows exactly what to say and when to say it. He is professional and charismatic in the courtroom, a real master of his craft. I could not recommend Chris highly enough. He's worth every cent and then some. Thank you so much!
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Posted by anonymous | March 6, 2013
Excellent Attorney
Chris Sohovich helped me with my DUI. I typically am one of those people that do not like attorneys. Sohovich changed my mind. He is down to earth and sharp as a whip. From my experience I'd advise everyone to avoid a DUI at all costs but if it does happen to you, Sohovich is the man to call. Hands down, best DUI attorney in San Diego.
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Posted by anonymous | March 3, 2013
Silver Lining
Mr. Sohovich was truly the silver lining during a very bad situation. After receiving a DUI I was in panic mode. I had no idea what to expect or what would happen to me in regards to my record, my license, my job, and financially. Mr. Sohovich helped me turn the worst event in my life in to a bump in the road. He walked me through everything step by step from the beginning. Once I found out the process and how everything would be handled I was not overwhelmed or panicked. It really made a difference to me that he kept me informed every step of the way and he got me the best possible outcome for the bad situation that I put myself in. I highly recommend Mr. Sohovich to anyone that has gotten a DUI. He is the best attorney you could hope for when dealing with DUI's.
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Posted by anonymous | August 20, 2012
Trust Him
After being arrested on a DUI charge, I was not feeling very optomistic. Chris Sohovich was calm, cool, and collected. He reassured me that he could help. Chris remained patient and persistent, and eventually got my charge negotiated down to a wet reckless. Contact Chris if you find yourself in my shoes. He will not stop until you have the best deal possible.
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Posted by Al | August 17, 2012
You Rock Chris!
There I was... Finally coming to the end of a long arduous court process.. I had done my time, had my license suspended, paid my fines, taken the courses, fulfilled all the committments, paid the extra insurance, explained the situation to potential employers on applications, and endured all of the other pain and humiliation as a result of my .01 over the legal BAC limit, on the drive home from dinner with colleagues (.08 "wet reckless" charge which had been negotiated down from a DUI by Chris' team) In my case, the time finally came for the charges to be expunged and Chris & Mary were there for me again. As fate would have it, instead of expunging the charges from my record, a clerical error caused by a typo (literally the difference of a single period) resulted in a felony firearm related charge being put on my DMV record! Of course I was beside myself and anxious to get the error corrected. Chris & Mary consoled me and went to the court to negotiate with the commissioner 4 times over several weeks to correct the situation! Every time, they said it was fixed but when I contacted the DMV, they said it was still there. I called their office often bugging them about the situation but they were always courtious. Finally they were actually able to get one of the senior counsel representatives from the DMV to call and apologize for the situation. Just yesterday the DMV confirmed that it has been completely removed from the record. YAY!! :D If you are in a situation where you need legal counsel in a DUI case, don't hesitate to retain Chris and team! You will not regret it.
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Pacheco & Neach
  • 2019 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Law Office of Christopher P. Sohovich
  • 2008 - 2019
  • Associate
  • Koeller Nebeker Carlson Haluck
  • 2008 - 2008
  • Deputy District Attorney
  • Riverside District Attorney
  • 2006 - 2007
  • Law Clerk
  • San Diego Alternate Public Defender
  • 2004 - 2006
  • Judicial Extern
  • 10th District Court of Appeals State of Ohio
  • 2004 - 2004
View all work experience

Education

  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Summer Session
  • 2012
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Annual Seminar
  • 2012
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Annual DUI Seminar
  • 2010
  • DUI from A to DMV
  • 2010
  • Forensic Blood and Urine Laboratory Seminar
  • Certificate of Completion
  • 2009
  • NACDL DUI Seminar
  • 2008
  • Thomas Jefferson SOL
  • Law
  • 2006
  • Ohio State Univ
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2003
View all education

Legal Cases

  • People v. X
  • Dismissed
  • People v. X
  • DUI dismissed
  • People v. X
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Association of DUI Defense Lawyers
  • Founding Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • San Diego DUI Defense Associates
  • Secretary/Treasurer
  • 2009 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • California Public Defenders Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • San Diego Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • State Bar of California
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top Attorney Semi Finalist
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2014
  • Top Attorney Nominee
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2014
  • Top Attorney Semi-Finalist
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2013
  • Top Attorney Nominee
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2013
  • Top Young Attorney Nominee
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2012
  • Cert. of Completion: SFST Student Course
  • La Pier & Associates
  • 2012
  • Summer Session Graduate
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2012
  • Top Attorney Semi-Finalist
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2012
  • Top Attorney Nomination
  • San Diego Daily Transcript
  • 2012
  • Employee of the Month
  • Riverside County District Attorney
  • 2007
  • Employee of the Month
  • Riverside County District Attorney
  • 2007
View all awards

Publications

  • Thompson Publishing Group/West
  • California Drunk Driving Defense (2013 supplement)
  • 2013
  • Sanctuary Bail Bonds website
  • Penalties for multiple DUIs
  • 2013
  • West Group publication
  • California Drunk Driving Defense 2012 Update
  • 2012
  • Chris Sohovich's website
  • Overview of DUI charges
  • 2009
  • Pitfalls to Avoid When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
  • Pitfalls to Avoid When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
  • N/A
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Administration of Justice
  • Criminal Justice
  • 2015
  • Phi Alpha Delta
  • Lawyer panel
  • 2013
  • Phi Alpha Delta
  • Becoming a lawyer
  • 2013
  • San Diego DUI Defense Associates
  • Penalties for multiple DUIs
  • 2013
  • University of California San Diego
  • Tips for Pre-Law Students
  • 2013
  • Spring Seminar
  • Prosecutorial Misconduct
  • 2011
  • Lawyers Panel
  • DUI Education and Prevention
  • 2010
  • Lawyer Panel
  • The real cost of a DUI
  • 2010
  • Continuing Legal Education
  • Field Sobriety Tests
  • 2010
  • Spring Seminar
  • DUI sentencing
  • 2010
  • San Diego DUI Defense Associates
  • SEO for solo practitioners
  • N/A
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (49)
Given (46)
Endorse Christopher
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is an excellent attorney and he is a rising star in the San Diego legal community. He has outstanding trial skills and he zealously fights for his clients in every case. I had the pleasure of working with Chris while at the Riverside county District Attorney's office. Chris had a very well-respected reputation as an honest and aggressive attorney who excels in the courtroom. I would not hesitate to endorse his work and to recommend his services."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Chris is an intense, dedicated attorney who recently moved from the ranks of prosecutor to criminal defense. He knows the legal system in California from both sides and has taken and successfully passed an advanced training class (Forensic Blood and Urine Laboratory Course) that fewer than 1/10 of 1 % of all criminal defense attorneys in the nation have taken. This shows his dedication to his craft."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris Sohovich is a great advocate for his clients; his knowledge and experience with DUI defense is a valuable asset to them. Additionally, his professional demeanor commands respect from everyone in court."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Christopher is an exceptional criminal defense attorney whose reputation speaks for itself. Highly recommended lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a phenomenal DUI defense attorney. Tenacious and knowledgeable Chris has devoted his career to keeping the system honest. I've witnessed Chris in court on a number of occasions securing the best possible results for his clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a top notch attorney with the trial and negotiation skills needed to provide zealous and thorough advocacy for his clients. I strongly endorse Christopher Sohovich."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris fights for his clients"
Unknown Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney Christopher Sohovich. He is hard working, experienced and dedicated to the success of his clients. A respected member within the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A truly excellent attorney well respected in the legal community. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is an excellent attorney and seems to know everyone in town! He knows what he is doing and I'd trust him with any of my cases. He takes the time to really listen to his clients and is a pro in court! I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"It is very rare to find someone who can comfortably argue the law with judges, investigate the science with experts, and truly communicate to a jury. Chris is one of very few out there who can do all three and make it look effortless. Put plainly, Chris may be the best attorney I know."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Paul is an excellent lawyer. I constantly go to him for advice and he is valuable asset to the defense community. He's been there for me more than a few times and fights hard for his clients"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is well known and respected by every defense lawyer in the community as well as judges and prosecutors. I would recommend Chris to anyone in need of representation."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Christopher is extremely dedicated to serving his clients. His experience and background make him an excellent attorney. I would not hesitate to refer clients to Christopher for representation."
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