Frances-Marie Angeles Prizzia

Frances-Marie Angeles Prizzia

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 20 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Newport Beach, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI

5000 Birch Street, Suite 3000, Newport Beach, CA

About Frances-Marie

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 70%

21 years | 3,000 cases

70%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in California for 20 years

State: California

Acquired: 2005

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Frances Prizzia

5000 Birch Street, Suite 3000, Newport Beach, CA, 92660

Law Offices of Frances Prizzia

1432 Edinger Avenue, Suite 240, Tustin, CA, 92780

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Frances-Marie Angeles Prizzia's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

53 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 14 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Matthew | October 09, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Domestic Violence

Experience the Prizzia Whirlwind!!

Contact the law office of attorney Francis Prizzia and ask for the Prizzia Whirlwind treatment if you want a strong, knowledgeable and energetic defense attorney working for you. From the time I first made contact with Kris, team manager, and explained my TRO situation, to witnessing the Francis P...rizzia Whirlwind effect in court first hand, to the current efforts of wrapping my case up, I’ve had nothing but confidence in this team. I’ve been informed every step of the way and every question was answered in a timely manner. The court appearance went off without a hitch and attorney Prizzia crushed it! She secured another notch in the win column. (You should go watch her in action sometime very impressive) I’m very appreciative for what Kris and Attorney Prizzia were able to do for me. I can’t thank you enough.

Posted by Tristan | May 29, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Domestic Violence

Bad biaaaaaaaa

Okay, I needed her for a TRO. And let me tell you I’m the furtherest thing from easy. She walked in day of the hearing and ripped the other side up. I’m a little terrified of her still. If you want someone who will win, and take the other side down. Pick her! I can’t say enough good things about her ...or Kristin. They text me back every time I needed something. They were always there. I would hire them over and over again!

Posted by anonymous | August 16, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

From One Professional About Another

I was happy Ms. Prizzia extended a retainer agreement during my difficult circumstances that were no fault of my own. Before I spoke with Ms Prizzia I was matriculated through to her via her two office staff assistants at the time then lastly to Ms. Prizzia. I was assured by her office staff a copy o...f my discovery would be procured from my then current representation. I hired Ms. Prizzia to review my discovery with me and give a second opinion. I requested her office staff confirm they can obtain the discovery before I paid. Everything was yes and amen. They could not procure a copy of my discovery after I paid. They never gave me a second opinion from said discovery, only re-read a redacted version of the police narrative (which can be done within the free CA Bar 30min free consultation and therefore no need to pay). My then current representation told me to call and get my money back. I did and Ms. Praizzia had a royal melt down over it and refused to give it back. I wish I could upload the txt messages she sent here so you can see. I filed a CA Bar complaint not to get her law licence taken but to have some measure of accountability and oversight and to attempt to get resolution. Ms. Prizzia falsely said I didn't pay her to review the discovery, only a second opinion. This is logically self refuting; I don't need to pay someone to give a second opinion on a police narrative (that takes 5-10min out of a free 30 min consultation), However, I would need to pay an attorney to review discovery, a much more involving process, ever so much more than 30min. As someone who has training in psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy as well as many numerous business associates in the performance industry, Ms. Prizzia conduct is clear. This is not a one time offense, she is not stupid or misunderstood, this is a "Pervasive Character Pattern." This happens when you have no accountability or grow as a person. Who was she serving, her client or herself? Did her staff conduct themselves professionally? It's too bad, I was really hoping she would help me, but Ms. Prizzia chose not to- she did not do anything and she exploited my difficult situation for her own unjust financial enrichment. In this regard, her and her staff were behaving more like one of those Gold Diggers. She is fortunate the case workers at the CA Bar are not attorneys and they are not that smart. And Ms. Priazzia's response to the CA Bar's inquiry was hollow and generic, bereft of any authentic connection, but was rather evasive. After all, her bar licence is on the line, telling the truth would come with undesirable consequences. Mr. Prizzia is in a position of trust for people going through vulnerable and traumatic situations. Talk is cheap, actions are everything. Looking back I would have chosen a better person and the best criminal attorney. Best wishes for those other first time victims of the system getting put through the ringer when it's no fault of your own. Hopefully your family believes you. To Ms. Prizzia: The God you may or may not believe in created you, loves you and will one day review all things you have done even in secret, seeing even your thoughts and intentions. This is not over. See you then and hopefully with those marching in.

Posted by Nikki | July 14, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Impeccable defense attorney

During a very difficult time Frances made the difference in my life. She was very personable, knowledgeable, prompt and professional through the entire process. The way she analyzed my case and explained the defense strategy she would use blew me away. I was ready to just give up and was surprised wi...th all the defense options available to me. Take it from me, the right defense attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case. Hire Frances if you need a top notch defense attorney that will fight smart for you.

Posted by Ryan | December 07, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Expungement

A caring team

Ms Prizzia and her team (special thanks to Pam) for expungement of my felony and bad misdemeanor. I am a free man thanks the the legal team and I am very grateful.

See All Client Reviews

Frances-Marie Angeles Prizzia's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Frances-Marie
Kevin Ryan Snyder headshot
Kevin Snyder

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 10

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 Ting-Yan Wong headshot
Geraldine Wong

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 04

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 Matthew Williams headshot
Ryan Williams

Criminal defense lawyer | May 30

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 headshot
Vijay Dinakar

Criminal defense lawyer | May 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Jason James Buccat headshot
Jason Buccat

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 31

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 David Jessup headshot
Miles Jessup

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 02

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 Fengcheng Yeh headshot
Jeff Yeh

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 21

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Breanna Catherine Slattery headshot
Breanna Slattery

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 14

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 John Bruno headshot
Keith Bruno

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 04

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 Victor Wallin headshot
Thomas Wallin

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 23

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."

View All Endorsements
Mohammad Z. Qazi headshot
Mohammad Qazi

Criminal defense lawyer

Ryan Matthew Williams headshot
Ryan Williams

Criminal defense lawyer

Thomas Victor Wallin headshot
Thomas Wallin

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2016

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2015

Client Choice Award, Avvo

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2014

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2013

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2012

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2011

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) Student course, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)

2005

Pro Bono Award, Santa Clara University School of Law

2005

Articles Editor, Santa Clara Journal of International Law

2004

Public Interest Scholar, Santa Clara University School of Law

2004

Pro Bono Award, Santa Clara University School of Law

2003

Public Interest Scholar, Santa Clara University School of Law

2003

Summer Program for International Humanitarian Rights, Santa Clara University School of Law Institute of International and Comparative Law

2002

Public Interest Scholar, Santa Clara University School of Law

Work Experience

2009 - Present

Attorney/ Owner, Law Offices of Frances Prizzia, A.P.L.C.

2009 - 2009

Deputy Alternate Public Defender, Los Angeles Alternate Public Defender

2006 - 2009

Deputy Public Defender, Orange County Public Defender

2006 - 2006

Contract Attorney, American Civil Liberties Union Of Northern California

2005 - 2006

Legal Intern, Santa Clara County Public Defender's Office

2004 - 2005

Certified Law Clerk, Santa Cruz Public Defender

2004 - 2004

Law Student Case Handler, Northern California Innocence Project

2003 - 2004

Law Student Case Handler, Katharine and George Alexander Community Law Center

Associations

2025 - Present

Los Angeles Unity Bar

Vice Chair

2025 - Present

Orange County Unity Bar

Co-chair

2025 - Present

California Legal Pathways Collaborative

Communications Manager

2024 - Present

Italian American Lawyers Association

Board Member

2015 - Present

Philippine Bar Association

Attorney Member

2015 - Present

California Women Lawyers

Attorney Member

2014 - Present

National Trial Lawyers Association

Trial Lawyer Member

2014 - Present

South Orange County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2013 - Present

North Orange County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2013 - Present

West Orange County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2010 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2006 - Present

Orange County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2006 - Present

California Public Defenders Association

Attorney Member

2005 - Present

State Bar of California

Attorney Member

2005 - Present

American Bar Association

Attorney Member

1998 - Present

Phi Delta Phi

Member

2022 - 2023

Filipino-American Lawyers of Orange County

President

Sample of Legal Cases

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

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

Santa Clara University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2001

Santa Clara University

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2024

Liwanag Conference

Across Sectors Law Panel

2022

Webinar

Ins and Outs of starting a law firm

2021

Webinar on AAPI hate crimes

What are hate crimes and what can AAPI attorneys do about them?

2021

Overcoming Barriers

How minority attorneys in the public sector find success at the highest levels

Languages

English

Tagalog

Spanish

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • 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