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Frances-Marie Angeles Prizzia

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Avvo Rating10
  • Newport Beach, CA
  • Licensed for 15 years
  • Free consultation
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About Frances-Marie

Attorney Frances-Marie Prizzia was first interested in pursuing criminal law while working for immigrant labor organizations and a healthcare center, where she witnessed the injustices suffered by the disenfranchised and impoverished. Ms. Prizzia’s desire to make a difference and help those in need drove her to apply for law school. She received her Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law (where she had also earned her Bachelor’s degree) in 2005. As a law student, she argued and won a motion to suppress evidence due to the violations of the Fourth Amendment made by investigating police officers. Before establishing her firm, Attorney Prizzia worked for the Orange County Public Defender and the Los Angeles County Alternate Defender’s office. While working as a trial attorney, Mrs. Prizzia obtained many dismissals by the court, and took and won more cases in jury trial than any other attorney within her unit at the time. Attorney Prizzia is admitted to practice law in California, and is admitted to the California State Bar.

 

 

At the Law Office of Frances Prizzia, Attorney Prizzia is dedicated to defending the rights and protecting the futures of those who have been arrested or charged with a criminal offense. When their career, reputation, and future are on the line, Ms. Prizzia believes it is important to provide clients with aggressive representation and do everything in her power to have their charges reduced or dropped. Attorney Prizzia understands how stressful it can be to face criminal charges, which is why she offers clients her trusted legal counsel and personal attention. Whether you are facing a drug crime, sex crime, white collar crime, DUI (driving under the influence) offense, or probation violation, Ms. Prizzia has the knowledge and ability to represent you. To learn more about retaining the representation of a Newport Beach criminal defense lawyer, contact the Law Office of Frances Prizzia. 

Practice areas

DUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 70%

    16 years, 3,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI: 30%

Languages spoken

English, Tagalog

Contact

5000 Birch Street
address map

Law Offices of Frances Prizzia

5000 Birch Street
Suite 3000
Newport Beach, CA, 92660

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    CAActive200502/15/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers37
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2016
    Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers Association2016
    Client Choice AwardAvvo2015
    Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers Association2015
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2014
    Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers2014
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2013
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2012
    Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) Student courseNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)2011
    Articles EditorSanta Clara Journal of International Law2005
    Pro Bono AwardSanta Clara University School of Law2005
    Public Interest ScholarSanta Clara University School of Law2004
    Pro Bono AwardSanta Clara University School of Law2004
    Summer Program for International Humanitarian RightsSanta Clara University School of Law Institute of International and Comparative Law2003
    Public Interest ScholarSanta Clara University School of Law2003
    Public Interest ScholarSanta Clara University School of Law2002
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Attorney/ OwnerLaw Offices of Frances Prizzia, A.P.L.C.2009 - Present
    Deputy Alternate Public DefenderLos Angeles Alternate Public Defender2009 - 2009
    Contract AttorneyAmerican Civil Liberties Union Of Northern California2006 - 2006
    Deputy Public DefenderOrange County Public Defender2006 - 2009
    Legal InternSanta Clara County Public Defender's Office2005 - 2006
    Law Student Case HandlerNorthern California Innocence Project2004 - 2004
    Certified Law ClerkSanta Cruz Public Defender2004 - 2005
    Law Student Case HandlerKatharine and George Alexander Community Law Center2003 - 2004
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Philippine Bar AssociationAttorney Member2015 - Present
    California Women LawyersAttorney Member2015 - Present
    National Trial Lawyers AssociationTrial Lawyer Member2014 - Present
    South Orange County Bar AssociationAttorney Member2014 - Present
    North Orange County Bar AssociationAttorney Member2013 - Present
    West Orange County Bar AssociationAttorney Member2013 - Present
    Los Angeles County Bar AssociationAttorney Member2010 - Present
    Orange County Bar AssociationAttorney Member2006 - Present
    California Public Defenders AssociationAttorney Member2006 - Present
    American Bar AssociationAttorney Member2005 - Present
    State Bar of CaliforniaAttorney Member2005 - Present
    Phi Delta PhiMember1998 - Present
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Santa Clara University School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2005
    Santa Clara UniversityBS - Bachelor of Science2001
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Lawpreneur RadioJourney to Becoming a Criminal Defense Attorney2014
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    People v. Patrick N.Hung Jury (9 to 3 for Not Guilty)
    People v. Eloy A.*Pled down to Petty Theft of Lost Property and Driving without a license (NO JAIL TIME)
    People v. Erick S.*Pled down to Disturbing the Peace (NO JAIL TIME)
    People v. Brian O.*Pled down to Simple Battery (NO JAIL TIME)
    People v. Eun 0.*Pled down to Disturbing the Peace (NO JAIL TIME)
    People v. Anna R.Dismissed

    Reviews

    (38)
    5 Star
    		92%
    4 Star
    		3%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		3%
    1 Star
    		3%
    Review Frances-Marie Prizzia

    Above and Beyond

    Posted by

    Frances Prizzia recently represented me in a felony vandalism case. Prior to retaining Frances, I had struggled through 17 months of court appearances while being represented by a different law firm. When Frances took over my case she immediately had the charges against me reduced to a misdemeanor and soon after convinced the court to dismiss the case completely. Frances and her staff are incredible! Always available, always comforting and always aggressively working on her clients behalf. Meeting Frances Prizzia was a true blessing and allowed my wife and I to return to a normal life. Thank you Frances!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Restraining Order

    Posted by

    I was so greatly relieved yesterday for our lawyer's excellent deliverance for my daughter's case. I met her when they came out after the session. When I saw her angelic face uttering positively the result, the saying of "First Impression Is Lasting" was proven. I will definitely recommend her to anyone who has legal problems. Her expertise is really a proven fact. Kudos for that. I now has a peace of mind to dwell in this side of the universe. A million thanks Atty. Frances-Marie Prizzia!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Very caring and persistent.

    Posted by

    Frances stayed on top of my case, was patient throughout out and had great follow through. I am very grateful for her efforts.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best Attorney

    Posted by

    Frances is the best at what she does. Being that I’ve never been in trouble before, she helped ease my mind. She answered all of my questions, even gave me her personal cellphone number to be able to reach her. Her communication is great! Not to mention she is very flexible and affordable. Having her as my lawyer gives me no worries. She is handling 2 separate cases for me in which one of them she has gotten dismissed. Not to mention she went the extra mile and drove over an hour from where her office is to handle what was needed. She has great knowledge of all things that were thrown our way. I would definitely hire her again if ever needed! I would not trust anyone else with my future except for her. Thank you Frances for everything you’ve done for me so far, my family and I appreciate you so much.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Outstanding Person & Attorney

    Posted by

    I hired Frances when I was battling false allegations of DV. Frances went above and beyond to help me out. She is extremely smart, intelligent as well as fiercely aggressive attorney. She had the TRO dismissed in very first hearing. I will forever be grateful to her for what she has done for me.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    In your corner

    Posted by

    I called Frances to explain my dilemma. She was very knowledgeable and compassionate. Trust me when I say that she is in your corner. She is a bulldog! Do yourself a favor, and hire her. Thank you Francis!!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Francis Saved My LIFE!!

    Posted by

    I was facing 25 years in prison with three strikes, on a DV case. The District Atty was not budging just adding more to my case. I hired Francis and she was AMAZING!!! I received a sentence of 90 days of home confinement, no actual jail time. Francis saved my LIFE!! Robert
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Case Dismissed!

    Posted by

    I would like to mention that after interviewing few criminal defense attorneys, we retained Attorney Frances Prizzia to handle a friend’s case in the Orange County District Court. Frances heard us with outmost care, compassion and professionalism. During the first meeting she put our worried and anxious minds at ease and explained the various scenarios and possible outcomes of the case. Mistakes happen in everyone’s life and everyone deserves a second chance. Frances is a great listener; she dissected the case and explained the steps and procedures very clearly in layman terms too. She worked with the DA and negotiated a favorable outcome leading to the dismissal of the case. Of course some formalities were to be done. A seasoned criminal law defense attorney friend (from a different California jurisdiction) said this about Frances: “It sounds like her attorney is on top of the situation.” and “…the disposition suggested by her attorney would be in her best interests.” Frances' client never had to go to the court. Frances represented and navigated the client on the formalities and procedures. A great thing about Frances is, she is very easy to work with and communicate. Furthermore, Frances is very reachable via text messages and easy to work with. She even gave a discount on her reasonable fee. Her staff is always reachable and return your messages. Highly recommended!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Expertise and Care

    Posted by

    I called the Law Offices of Frances Prizzia on Sunday night slightly panicked because of an unexpected, complicated legal issue. Frances answered the phone! She calmed me, provided me information about next steps and the office followed up the next day. I was impressed with the level of customer care and outstanding work keeping me informed by staying in contact. Frances successfully resolved our case and I highly recommend her if you want a lawyer who is knowledgeable and caring.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Absolutely THE BEST!!!!!!!

    Posted by

    When I was unexpectedly arrested for unknown warrants my Fiance contacted her lawyer Frances Prizzia and Frances immediately advised her , calmed her , and gave her peace of mind...Frances was immediately available and was extremely quick and knowledgeable. She appeared at my court date and not only got me released, she also got the judge to end my probation term as well...She is a Godsend. She helped me and my Fiance get our lives back on track...We don't know where we would be without her. We are truly thankful for Frances and we recommend her to everyone.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
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    Attorney endorsements

    (10)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Kevin Snyder, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 10, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I highly endorse Ms. Prizzia for her legal acumen, trial skills, and passionate defense. I had the pleasure of working alongside her during her years at the Orange County Public Defender's Office and personally witnessed the great results she wins for clients. She personifies the adage that sometimes the best defense is a strong offense. She is a fierce advocate and a tireless worker which gives her a huge edge. She will out smart, out work, and out class her competition in the courtroom. For all her tenacity and energy in court, she is very easy to work with and her compassion for her clients and their causes is immeasurable.

    Geraldine Wong, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 4, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Frances is an awesome trial attorney. I worked with her when she was a deputy public defender, and she was constantly winning trials and motions. Looking for a smart and aggressive attorney? Call Frances!

    Ryan Williams, Criminal defense Attorney on May 30, 2013
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I had the privilege of working alongside Frances when we were both deputy public defenders several years ago. She is a relentless advocate who will never back down from defending her clients. I have seen her go toe-to-toe with overzealous prosecutors, and it pays dividends for her clients. She is outstanding in trial, and juries love her. If you need a fighter, Frances is your lawyer!

    Vijay Dinakar, Criminal defense Attorney on May 25, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ms. Prizzia is an aggressive and experienced criminal attorney that will fight for your rights. Highly recommended.

    Jason Buccat, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 31, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Frances is the bulldog you want on your side. She brings a wealth of passion and skill to her practice, which translates into success for her clients.

    Miles Jessup, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 2, 2013
    Relationship: Co-worker

    Ms. Prizzia is a skilled and effective trial attorney. She demonstrates a deep comprehension of nuanced legal concepts while naturally understanding long term strategic concerns. She is respected by the bench and by the prosecution. Juries love her. She is at once a compassionate counselor to her clients and a mighty opponent to the State. She is a tireless and ferocious litigator at all stages of the proceedings. Do not let her physical size fool you, she is a force to be reckoned with.

    Jeff Yeh, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 21, 2010
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Breanna Slattery, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 14, 2010
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Attorney Frances Prizzia's compassion for her clients allows her to fight on their behalf in a way unmatched by most criminal defense attorney. She truly believes that a strong defense is a right afforded to every individual, and her dedication to her clients shows through at every turn, I highly recommend Ms. Prizzia as a superior criminal defense attorney.

    Keith Bruno, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 4, 2010
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Frances and I have worked closely on several criminal defense matters. She is experienced, talented and compassionate. In other words, a truly remarkable lawyer.

    Thomas Wallin, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 23, 2009
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Attorney Prizzia is a very strong trial attorney. I have witnessed her skills and am confident in endorsing her. Her passion for defending her clients is only matched by her desire to uphold the constitution.

    Cost

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      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs60 minutes