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Pezhman Pakneshan

Criminal defense Attorney at San Francisco, CA

5.0   25 reviews
  • Licensed for 18 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2004
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Pezhman

Learn Pezhman’s areas of practice.

Pezhman Pakneshan graduated with honors from UCLA and the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Mr. Pakneshan also received a Certificate of Study in Business and Public Policy from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is a member in good standing with the State Bar of California.

Since receiving his law degree, Mr. Pakneshan has focused his practice on criminal, DUI & Civil Rights law. Upon graduating from law school, he worked as a Deputy District Attorney. As a prosecutor, he successfully prosecuted thousands of misdemeanor and felony criminal and DUI cases and tried numerous jury trials. During that time, Mr. Pakneshan grew to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution of criminal and DUI charges.

As a prosecutor, Mr. Pakneshan handled over 1,000 DUI cases. Now, he specializes in DUI defense. Over the years, he has received extensive training by the California Department of Justice, Bureau of Forensic Services, in all aspects of DUI cases. That extensive training included alcohol extrapolation studies, as well as EPAS and Intoxilyzer analysis. He has also received extensive training and has experience handling DUI cases involving prescription medications and illegal drugs.

As a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Pakneshan specializes in virtually every area of criminal law ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

Mr. Pakneshan's intricate knowledge of the criminal justice system affords his clients with unique "inside information" and gives him the advantage in defending criminal matters. Knowing how the prosecutor thinks gives him the opportunity to develop an effective defense designed to counter the government's strategy.

Mr. Pakneshan is also one of California’s foremost authorities on how to clear (expunge) criminal convictions. He is committed to helping people who have been unfairly saddled with a criminal record to expunge or seal their record.

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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  25 customer reviews
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Posted by Harry Singh | January 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Long story short Mr. Pezhman gave my life back-Go to him without hesitation
If you need to call me at 510-309-5003. We are blessed to have Mr. Pezhman help me with my case. It was a complaint against me by someone related to our family. I never thought that someone from our family could get me into a trap and file a criminal case against me. I am fortunate enough to have Mr. Pezhman representing us in contra costa county court. This gentleman showed up that he went way beyond any humbleness or professionalism. He is highly professional and intelligent, kind-hearted, and supportive. I was thrilled with his detail-oriented approach when he asked about what I would be wearing on the day of the hearing. I am unable to find qualified enough vocabulary to describe his greatness. Long story short, Mr. Pezhman saved my life. If he was not there, I am sure I could have been in prison for the next 15 years. He and his family are in our (my two sons (8 & 3-year old, my wife and me) prayers till our last breath. Thanks Harry Singh
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Posted by Javanna | February 6, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best lawyer
He’s the best! He helped me every time of the way! Very caring. I could call/text him anytime and he was there for me. Super smart and knowledgeable. 5/5 ⭐️
Posted by anonymous | December 4, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Diligent, responsive, and knowledgeable
Pezhman responded to every email and returned calls quickly and made sure to answer all of my questions. You can trust that he will do everything necessary to address your case, he always made sure to check in and follow up with the appropriate agencies. His pricing is very fair and you can tell that he isn't just doing this to get paid, he took my case very seriously from start to finish. I would highly recommend that you hire him as your lawyer.
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Posted by Alex | December 4, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Always there for me
When I first contacted Mr. Pakneshan, neither of us could have anticipated how long the matter would end up going on for, but needless to say I never expected it to be the way it was. That being said, Mr. Pakneshan was always there every step of the way to answer all my questions, guide me through the complicated processes, and even was able to appear for me when I was randomly picked up on a warrant that I was unaware I had. His interactions with the DA always led to my benefit, and he was able to help me avoid a $150,000 restitution fee. I would absolutely recommend Mr. Pakneshan to anyone who needs legal advice, especially for a DUI.
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Posted by anonymous | November 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent representation and communication
Pezhman's representation was excellent and successful. He had great communication and was always available to take my calls and take the time to explain everything to me clearly and earnestly in detail. I fully recommend Pezhman to anyone looking for a smart, dependable attorney. I felt the process was made very easy and smooth thanks to his attitude.
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Posted by Jerome | November 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A very kind, nice and helpful
He helped me thru start to finish. A very knowledgable attorney. I trusted him and it gave a good result. Thank you very much
Posted by Adam | August 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderfully competent and thoroughly communicative
From the moment I met with Pezhman I felt his compassion and confidence regarding my situation. He assessed my situation logically and reasonably and let me know his confidence level on getting the matter dismissed. I am a professional with my own practice and he understood the ramifications of a conviction. Over the 11 months from arrest to dismissal he was timely and thoroughly informative in al his communications to me. His fee was very reasonable and my experience from start to finish was nothing less than stellar. I am grateful for his experience, empathy, competence and performance to get my matter dismissed. Highly recommended!
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Posted by David | March 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
I would not hesitate for a second to recommend Pezhman as a defense attorney. He provided guidance on all of the steps through the process and was able to help have the charges dismissed and the arrest sealed.
Posted by B. | November 21, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
A proactive lawyer
Once I contacted Pezhman he listened to me attentively and built trust. He spend a fair amount of time to walk me through the process without being in a contract. He explained his strategy to resolve the issue proactively.
Posted by Ali | July 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional lawyer
Pezhman Pakneshan has provided an excellent service and put him excellent knowledge of the case. He responded on every email and text that I had questions and concerns and I got answers even 1 year after. Pezhman provided fabulous service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to all details. Thank you once again on doing a great job.
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Posted by Sal | July 2, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and affordable!!!
Mr. Pezhman resolved my criminal case SUPER FAST. He's very knowledgeable and guided me through the steps to resolve my problem. I would definitely highly recommend him.
Posted by Summer | June 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Happy !
From the very first phone call I made to Pakneshan, I knew he was dedicated to his clients. He personally answered every single phone call and e-mail, and all of my 100 questions! He was very nice and informative, I could not be happier with the outcome of my case! I am forever grateful for all of his hard work!
Posted by vincent | December 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great experience
I hired Pezhman to expunge two old offenses off my record in order to receive a real estate license. He was hungry and took me on as a client instantly and for a great price. He was great at communicating with me throughout the whole process and always answered the phone when I called him. If he didn’t have an answer to my question, he’d make the necessary calls to get it. He was able to get both offenses expunged in the time frame he gave me. Great experience!
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Posted by anonymous | August 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great DUI lawyer
I had a great experience working with Pezhman he is professional , experienced ,caring , and most important he won my case ! Highly recomend him if you are in need of representation
Posted by Tatiana | December 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
It was a great ROI!
Mr. Pakneshan did a great, aggressive job on defending my husband's driver's license privileges with DMV after a pretty complicated DUI case involving a car accident and a 2nd out-of-state offense. We were happy with his communication style and how less complicated our life was during that hard period. Mr. Pakneshan took charge of all legal matters and left minimal to us. He was willing to answer any case related questions even year after without any charge. It was money well spent. Mr. Pakneshan did not delay the process and was timely with every aspect of it. Thank you very much, Mr. Pakneshan!
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Posted by Lisa | March 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A+ DV Lawyer
Mr. Pakneshan talked to me on the phone, patiently listened and asked specific questions. He provided me with a cost estimate and possible future costs pending outcome of my case. He was honest, straight forward, but yet professional, polite and understanding of my situation. I highly recommend him for his knowledge and his fair pricing. He had my felony charges dismissed within a few weeks - no court appearance was needed.
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Posted by Daniel | September 22, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
This IS the person to call for a D.U.I. problem
Mr. Pakneshan is a former prosecutor and is extremely knowledgeable in both the civil and criminal aspects of D.U.I., which is crucial in getting the best outcome. Had it not been for his expertise, professionalism, attention to detail and understanding of strategy in dealing with the Court and the DMV, I might have done jail time and most certainly would be unable to drive for two years. Instead, I received the minimum penalty allowed by law, did community service, and had my driving privilege suspended for only 90 days. I cannot recommend Mr. Pakneshan highly enough. His dedication of taking hours to look critically through police vest cam footage enabled me to prevail with the DMV hearing. His professionalism and bearing are rare to find in these times, he always treated me with the highest respect and I always knew that he was doing the best that was possible in representing me. If you need help with a D.U.I., he IS the one to call.
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Posted by sam | June 25, 2015
great lawyer
I had my best experience with this firm.Mr Pakneshan is a very professional and competent lawyer .he handled my case very smoothly and confidently with minimum stress on me . His approach was very different and he showed the best level of ethics and professionalism. Dr , S.M
Posted by anonymous | June 17, 2013
Honest, trustworthy, reliable, and communicative! Great choice!
Pezhman really helped me out with my case. Whenever I had any questions about anything he would answer with full honesty, and if I needed to get in touch with him, it was never a complicated thing. I would be called or emailed always within a day. I appreciate all he's done for me and would highly recommend him.
Posted by anonymous | May 8, 2013
Trustworthy and Knowledgeable Criminal Defense Attorney
Mr. Pakneshan is the first person I would call when one of my own clients was in need of criminal defense. All of the acquaintances and clients that I have referred to him have been very satisfied with the legal services provided. Mr. Pakneshan is a trustworthy and extremely knowledgeable attorney that will produce the best possible outcome based on the facts of the case.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • The Pakneshan Firm
  • 2007 - Present
  • Deputy District Attorney
  • Sonoma County District Attorney's Office
  • 2005 - 2007
  • Intern
  • Philadelphia District Attorney's Office
  • 2003 - 2003
  • Intern
  • San Francisco Public Defender's Office
  • 2002 - 2002
  • Intern
  • San Francisco Public Defender's Office
  • 2002 - 2002
  • Intern
  • Consumer Bankruptcy Assistance Project
  • 2002 - 2002
  • Intern
  • Prison Law Office
  • 2001 - 2001
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Pennsylvania Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2003
  • UCLA
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1998

Legal Cases

  • San Mateo County - Domestic Violence Restraining Order Case (Family Law)
  • Complete victory!
  • Solano County DUI Case
  • District Attorney reduced charges to wet reckless. DMV refusal suspension hearing dismissed. Client avoided license suspension. Client needed license to drive to work and could not accept a license suspension for even one day.
  • DUI Case
  • Charges Reduced to Wet-Reckless
View all legal cases

Associations

  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Penn Law Northern California Alumni Society
  • Founding Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • State Bar of California
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish
  • English
  • Persian

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers (selected for membership)
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Award for Exemplary Public Service
  • University of Pennsylvania Law School
  • 2003

Speaking Engagements

  • Managerial Decision Making Presentation
  • Police Search & Seizure
  • 2003

Attorney endorsements

Received (33)
Given (90)
Endorse Pezhman
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He will fight hard to get you the best possible outcome."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Other
"Great attorney who works hard to get the best results for clients. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"10 years of practicing criminal law is experienced. he has a huge advantage over many defense attorneys as a former Deputy District Attorney for 4 years. "They know that he knows what they know". His knowledge of both the law and procedure is excellent and evident in his pro bono contributions here. The real test of his skills is the judgement of his clients and here their reviews are outstanding. READ THEM! Do yourself a favor and schedule consultation with him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. It is very clear from many years of experience, contributions and reviews that Mr. Pakneshan is extremely knowledgeable and highly competent. I wouldn't hesitate recommending him ."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney Pezhman Pakneshan. Hard working, skilled, and dedicated to his clients. A respected member within the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Pezhman is a great local defense attorney. I endorse him."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
San Francisco Criminal defense Lawyer Pezhman Pakneshan
Pezhman Pakneshan
Criminal defense Attorney
San Francisco, CA
Licensed for 18 years
Free Consultation