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Charlie Davis Dresow

Criminal defense Attorney at San Rafael, CA

5.0   34 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2007
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Charlie

Learn Charlie’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    40%
    Criminal Defense including all felonies and misdemeanors.

    16 years

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%
    Driving under the influence defense including

    16 years

  3. Federal crime
    10%

  4. Sex crime
    10%

  5. Violent crime
    10%

  6. White collar crime
    10%

WIN YOUR CASE! PRESERVE YOUR FREEDOM AND PROTECT YOUR FUTURE. DO NOT GIVE UP YOUR DREAMS.

 I provide my clients with excellent, effective, efficient and ethical representation.  I do not shy away from difficult cases.  I am able to negotiate favorable dispositions or take a case to trial and win.  I will treat you with respect  and dignity.  I make myself available to answer any questions or concerns as they develop.  I enjoy being active in my community and volunteering my time coaching youth football. 


I handle all types of criminal cases, from felonies to misdemeanors.  I also represent clients in post conviction proceedings such as probation violations, expungements, and motions to terminate probation early.  I handle DUIS, drug crimes, violent crime, domestic violence cases, property crime, and all other types of criminal offenses. 

Awards

Client's Choice 2020,2012
Client's Choice
2020 2012

Photos and videos

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Contact Charlie

Ragghianti | Freitas LLP
1101 Fifth Avenue,
Suite 100
San Rafael, CA, 94901

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  34 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by David | May 26, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Knowledgeable and responsive
Charlie had the essential answers we needed in the moment we needed them. His insight, responsiveness, and good judgement helped us reach the best possible outcome.
Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
extremely pleased with the outcome of my case.
“I could not have gotten more blessed than by what Attorney Charlie Davis has done for me. He has done the impossible - won my case in the most difficult courtroom to win in. He did it with a breeze. He is a consummate professional who genuinely cares deeply about his clients - a top-quality person. He educated me on what to expect, and what the likely outcome would be...and then he achieved it. I would highly recommend Charlie Davis to anyone needing a criminal defense lawyer. He will be with you every step of the way - 100%.”
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Posted by Ava | October 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing lawyer review
Charles took full control over my case, he kept me informed and updated at all times. A close friend had reached out and recommended him to me and I couldn’t have been happier with the out come. Amazing lawyer! I have never felt more positive about dealing with court!
Posted by Henry | September 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very good experience with Charles.
Charles has represented me very professionally and successfully in a criminal matter. I feel he has always given me good counsel. He does not over-promise, and is clear-thinking, trustworthy, honest, fair, and caring. I am happy to recommend him to others.
Posted by anonymous | July 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dedicated professional
During the consultation, Charles proved to be knowledgeable, dedicated, professional, and compassionate. I hired him and all of this remained consistent. He responded readily, followed through without needing reminders, navigated tricky political situations, and provided empathy at each step. Not only is he skillful, but he’s a good human! Can’t recommend him enough!
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Posted by Quent | June 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent, impressive, beginning to end
Mr. Dresow represented our art gallery in Napa in a dispute with Napa County over our re-opening subsequent to Covid-19 forced closure. The County was threatening us and our landlord with a restraining order. Mr Dresow not only shepherded us safely and nimbly through the dispute, we believe his public response to the County's threats, speaking to the unconstitutionality of the County's orders and actions, was instrumental in keeping the County at bay while a suit for federal court was being prepared on our behalf by the Pacific Legal Foundation. Mr. Dresow was in full, ready, and patient communication with us at all times throughout. He helped educate us to the nuances and realities of what we could expect through the fluid situation, anticipating the responses to each move made with his assistance and guidance. We'd hire him again in a heartbeat. We recommend his services without reservation.
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Posted by Robert | February 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent defense attorney
I was referred to Mr. Dresow by a colleague after being arrested for a DUI. Charles was able to see me straightaway and took control of the case immediately. The case was unique in that I was not driving and the automobile was parked. Mr. Dresow was able to apply new law to the case and in doing so was able to get the case dismissed. Throughout the process, Mr. Dresow was communicative, informative with me the client and effective in his application of the law. I found Charles to be a talented lawyer and an ardent advocate I would highly recommend him.
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Posted by Mucio | January 7, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
Mr. Dresow and his staff were of great help to me, very understanding and gave me a thorough break down of my case with all different, outcome. I highly recommend Mr. Dresow and his professional staff. Thank you.
Posted by James | January 3, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Charlie Dresow saves the day
Our son was arrested at a party where a fight broke out. He was accused of being a part of the fight and they were going to hold him for 5 days in Juvenile detention until the trial. Charlie stepped in and explained the situation to us and what we can do. Thanks to Charlie our son was released the day after we contacted him and all charges dropped.
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Posted by Nicholas | June 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great People Skills and Knowledge
My case would have resulted in employment termination if it had fallen into the wrong hands. Charles gave me great advice and guidance, which allowed me to work toward a better solution than the court presented. I am truly grateful for all of the assistance with regards to my case because my charges were reduced to a point that my job/life were saved. I cannot say enough positive things about Charles Dresow and I advise anyone in a tough spot with an arrest to employ his services.
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Posted by Mark | March 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Always available with a positive word AND a great Lawyer
Defending ones character with today's social media is a tough thing. Charles not only was an excellent and strategic Lawyer, he also provided comfort when the going got really tough. We were referred to Mr. Dresow through another attorney we had used previously for a property issue. We are so glad that we found Mr. Dresow. I don;t know how he manages to deal with all the court BS from day to day, but I am sure glad he was there for me.
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Posted by Daniel | February 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Branch Sales Manager
I was having such a hard time with immigration because I had some legal issues that needed to be resolved. I tried few lawyers and could not get anywhere. I am talking about going through hell the last sixteen years. Then one day, I found this amazing and an excellent lawyer February 2017, by mid May 2017, he won my case and because of his hard work, knowledge of the law I was able to win my case. I will always be greatful to him for the rest of my life. if you want to get some result, and if you want to work with someone who will listen to you and get you some great result, contact Charles Dresow. He is very knowledgeable, humble and great to work with. Thank you Charlie, for your great work. i sleep better now, thanks to you.
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Posted by Lester McCullum | November 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. McCullum
In June of last year, I made a bad decision by carrying a weapon in a public place, arrested and spent the weekend in Santa Rita. Unaware of Alameda County strict gun laws, I was facing serious charges and possible jail time. Being that this was my first offense, I didn’t know who to turn to nor what steps I should take. But thankfully my cousin, who’s a D.A., recommended an attorney Charlie Dresow for legal counseling. Mr. Dresow has went above and beyond the call of duty and has worked diligently on fighting my case. And from His unwavering efforts, My sentence was reduced from serving 120 days in jail, to only 60 days with half time at home with an Electronic Monitoring Device. I am able to keep my job so that I could continue to support my family, plus save me from the humiliation of spending another day in jail. My family and I are extremely grateful for Mr. Dresow’s hardwork in succeeding my case. If your having legal problems, I would highly recommend Charlie Dresow, Criminal Defense Attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | July 14, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Unparalled Criminal Defense Attorney
Charles has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to DUI cases and the judicial system in Marin County. I found myself in a horrible circumstance, staring at a DUI charge and additional alcohol related charges that would derail my career, my reputation and all I had ever worked for. After speaking with Charles, it became clear that he was not only willing to listen to me, to what happened, and what I needed but that he was also far more knowledgeable than any of the other attorneys I spoke to. The most striking and prevalent characteristic of Charles in addition to his unwavering professionalism, stellar reputation (highly visible by all judges and collegues) and impressive Curriculum Vitae was his steadfast and sincere compassion and empathy for my circumstance and well being. This truly made me feel incredibly safe and secure whilst navigating the most treacherous situation I have ever faced. He is calculated and meticulous in his approach. He has great attention to detail and walked me through every step of the way. He gave me my options, all thoroughly researched, and pointed me in the best direction to avoid unwanted outcomes through risk mitigation. Although, had I gone to trial, there is no doubt that Charles would have prevailed. He was always responsive too, even the rare time when I had a question on a weekend or after hours during the week. He helped me get out of a situation where I was a victim of circumstance and didn't do myself any favors either. Without Charles' help, I would have been hit with everything including jail time. Instead, due to him being a champion for me and knowing what he does about the system, he helped me save my career and my livelihood. I cannot stress how important all of this was to me. If you find yourself in a situation like this, don't hesitate. This is your guy. Give him a call, and you'll know within seconds exactly what I mean from the moment you speak with him.
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Posted by anonymous | June 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best defense attorney
Charlie Dresow was recommended to me by a family attorney i was working with. Charlie is very smart, knowledgeable, fair, reasonable and with a winning attitude. Charlie not only knows the law, he is dedicating his time to his clients which is very important. He was always available to answer any of my e-mails, or texts I had. I was unjustly and falsely accused of Domestic Violence case and Charlie was able to prove and show to jurors that truth prevails and win the case. I highly recommend Charlie Dresow to anyone needing a competent, qualified defense attorney who is going through trials and tribulations. I am grateful and thankful to Charlie Dresow for being represented by him in court and his hard work.
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Posted by anonymous | January 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
best
over exceeded my expectations got my felony's dismissed and took the misdemeanors to trial. most attorney's I have dealt with would not of pushed and fought so hard
Posted by anonymous | August 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Representation in Superior Court
Mr. Charles Dresow was the second attorney I hired to represent me in Superior Court, and he did an outstanding job handling the case in preparation for trial. Charles has a winning attitude and is well-versed in the penal code. His strategy of being direct and adhering to the facts of the case led to a perfect outcome. I highly recommend him for anyone needing a competent, qualified and no-nonsense lawyer. I am deeply grateful for his diligence and perspicuity handling this case successfully.
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Posted by anonymous | December 14, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest, Prompt and Sincere
I Hired Charles for an alcohol related issue that could have landed me in jail for six months. Charles Dresow not only knows the law, he lives the practice of honoring and dedicating his time to his clients. He answered any texts I had, he did not hesitate to pick up the phone ( even on a Sunday afternoon ), and I would recommend Charles Dresow to anyone going through trials and tribulations. He is the most down to earth and reliable Attorney I have ever had in my life. Thank you Mr. Dresow. -M
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Posted by Jim | November 30, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Brilliant, Capable, Reassuring, Calm and Objective Attorney
Mr. Dresow helped me in my darkest hour ever. He is an old soul in a young man's body, with a young man's energy. I was unjustly and falsely accused of serious crimes. Mr. Dresow brought 3 generations of legal experience with him to my case. He has a real provenance. He has a practical working knowledge of the legal system and was able to calmly, consistently and methodically defend me. My case was dismissed and I am eternally grateful.
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Posted by Vicki | December 23, 2014
Job well done
I thought Charles Did a wonderful job for my brother. I would have like him to having got him out earlier, but the end result was the same all charges dropped. Our attorney kept us informed gave us correct information gave us case history's to help with our decision making. All in all I would differently use him again. Thank you, Sincerely
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Ragghianti Freitas, LLP
  • 2016 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Law Offices Charles D. Dresow
  • 2009 - 2015
  • Special Deputy District Attorney
  • Marin County District Attorney
  • 2008 - 2008
  • Legal Research Attorney
  • Marin County District Attorney
  • 2007 - 2008
  • Volunteer
  • Katrina-Gideon Project
  • 2006 - 2006
  • Certified Law Student
  • Sacramento County Public Defender
  • 2005 - 2007
  • Legal Intern
  • Sacramento Public Defenders Office
  • 2005 - 2005
View all work experience

Education

  • McGeorge SOL Univ of the Pacific
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2007
  • Pitzer Coll
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2003

Legal Cases

  • People v. G
  • Probation violation dismissed after hearing.
  • People v. V
  • Not Guilty all Counts after jury trial
  • People v. S
  • case dismissed
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Marin County Bar Association
  • Director
  • 2011 - Present
  • Marin County Bar Association
  • Chair MCBA Law Day 2011
  • 2011 - Present
  • Marin County Bar Association
  • Member Scholorship Committee
  • 2011 - Present
  • American Psychology-Law Society
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Sonoma County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Marin County Bar Association Law Day-Public Education Committee
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Marin County Bar Association CLE Committee
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Sonoma County Bar Association, Criminal Defense Section
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • San Francisco Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Richard Sangster Inn of Court
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • California Public Defenders Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Marin County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2007 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Criminal Trial Lawyer
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Criminal Justice Concentration
  • Mcgeorge School of Law
  • 2007
  • Certificate of Commendation
  • Marin County Board of Supervisors
  • 2004

Speaking Engagements

  • Napa County Police Academy mock trial practicum
  • Criminal Trial
  • 2011
  • March Program
  • With Friends Like These
  • 2011
  • Law Day
  • Youth and the Law
  • 2011
  • Sonoma County Bar Association Law Day
  • The American Jury - We the People in Action
  • 2010
  • Marin County Law Day
  • Legal Education
  • 2010
  • October Program
  • Do you have to speak up to remain silent (Presentation Coordinator)
  • 2010
  • 2009 Marin County Bar Association Law Day
  • Youth and the Law
  • 2009
  • February 2009 Program
  • Jury Selection
  • 2009
  • October 2009 Program
  • Ashcroft v. Iqbal
  • 2009
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (22)
Given (14)
Endorse Charlie
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. You cannot find a better criminal defense attorney in the Marin County area. Discreet, thorough, tough in the courtroom and well-respected by fellow defense attorneys, prosecutors and judges alike."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Charles Dresow is a great criminal defense lawyer who really goes to bat for his clients. He's well respected amongst the other criminal defense lawyer's in the community because of the fine work that he does."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. A pleasure to work with."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"In October 2011, when I was a DA, I went against Charlie in a very interesting animal cruelty case. Despite tough odds, Charlie approached the case in a brilliantly strategic way and obtained a good result for his client. On many other occasions, I've seen Charlie pull off some fantastic results for his clients. I'm happy on no longer adverse to him! A terrific trial lawyer!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I met Charlie Dresow when I was a new attorney considering whether to pursue a criminal defense practice. Charlie spent considerable time mentoring me and teaching me about what it means to be a criminal defense attorney. He is an outstanding attorney, cares deeply about his clients, and the amount of time he took out of his busy schedule to provide me with guidance speaks volumes about his selflessness. I wholeheartedly endorse Charlie!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work: trustworthy, conscientious, hardworking and fundamentally dedicated to every Client, Mr. Dresow is an excellent defense attorney. Any person in need of a premier criminal defense lawyer will know he or she is in capable hands."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Charlie. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Charlie is a fantastic attorney. He is able to handle complex cases with great skill and the highest ethics. I have recommended him on many occasions and will continue to do so. Best of all, Charlie is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I had a chance to talk with Charles at the CDLA Kuwatch DUI Seminar. He is very knowledgeable on DUI law and has a wealth of experience. He has the courage and talent to take on tough cases. I recommend him to anyone who is facing DUI charges."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Charlie has developed an excellent reputation amongst his criminal defense colleagues as well as prosecutors. Maintaining that credibility with prosecutors is key to diligent and effective representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Charlie Dresow is an aggressive passionate advocate for his clients. Charlie is well respected criminal defense and DUI trial attorney. I recommend Charlie Dresow without hesitation. He is not afraid to stand up and fight for his clients to get the best possible outcome."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Charlie is a wonderful advocate for his clients, and I fully endorse him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Charlie at the Sacramento County Public Defender's Office. Charlie comes family background of defense work and works tirelessly to vindicate his clients. Charlie shows compassion and respect to even the toughest customers. He genuinely likes to help people and isn't afraid to stand up for his clients against the machine that is the criminal justice system. Excellent choice."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I worked with Charlie at the District Attorney's Office in Marin. Charlie is a smart, hardworking, and respected attorney and an excellent trial lawyer. I highly recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have referred a number of clients to Charles and heard nothing but good things, and seen nothing but great results. Thank you."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Any time a client asks me for a referral to a criminal defense attorney I always refer them to Charlie. I can always trust that he will take great care of that person in a professional and courteous manner. Charlie's professionalism and knowledge of the law and of the courts make him an outstanding attorney."
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Avvo Contributions

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San Rafael Criminal defense Lawyer Charlie Davis Dresow
Charlie Davis Dresow
Criminal defense Attorney
San Rafael, CA
Licensed for 15 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available