Cody Bryan Kensit Salfen

Cody Bryan Kensit Salfen

also known as Cody Salfen

5.0
Rating: 9.5

Licensed for 9 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at San Jose, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Domestic Violence ... +5 more

1250 Aviation Ave., Suite 200U, San Jose, CA

About Cody

Biography

Practice Areas

8

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 70%

Theft, Burglary, Property Crimes, Domestic Violence, DUI/DWI (Driving Under the Influence), Drug Offenses, Misdemeanors, Felonies, Gang Related Matters, Assault & Battery, Probation Violations, Traffic Citations and all other criminal offenses.

70%
DUI and DWI 15%

Handling misdemeanor and felony DUI/Driving Under the Influence cases, including the criminal proceedings and DMV related hearings and issued.

15%
Domestic Violence 10%

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders, Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, Workplace Violence Restraining Orders, Elder Abuse Restraining Orders

10%
Expungement 1%

Petitions for Factual Innocence, Expungement, Record Clearance, Record Correction and other related matters.

1%
Personal Injury 1%

Traffic collisions, dog bites, aviation related personal injury, slip & fall, premise liability and more.

1%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in California for 9 years

State: California

Acquired: 2016

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The Salfen Law Firm, A Prof. Law Corp.

1250 Aviation Ave., Suite 200U, San Jose, CA, 95110

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Cody Bryan Kensit Salfen's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

37 Client Reviews

5 star (37)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by anonymous | April 28, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Excelente servicio

Muy buen abogado súper recomendado, muchas gracias señor cody por su ayuda en mi caso, amabilidad y honestidad

Posted by Elgun | June 6, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Exceptional Legal Expertise by Cody: A True Advocate

I found myself facing a very complicated case with a serious felony charge that was significantly impacting my personal life and career. In this challenging time, I was fortunate to have Cody by my side. His expertise, dedication, and strategic approach were nothing short of extraordinary. From th...e outset, Cody meticulously analyzed the intricacies of my case and crafted a robust defense strategy. His profound knowledge of the law and his tenacity were evident as he worked tirelessly to negotiate with the District Attorney. Through his relentless efforts, Cody managed to reduce my charge, ultimately achieving the best possible outcome—my felony charge was dismissed. Throughout this stressful period, Cody provided clear instructions and invaluable advice that guided me every step of the way. His unwavering support and exceptional legal acumen not only helped me get rid of the charges but also allowed me to regain control of my life and career. I am immensely grateful for Cody's hard work and dedication. If you are in need of a lawyer who will fight passionately for your rights and secure the best possible outcome, I highly recommend Cody. He is truly a remarkable advocate who goes above and beyond for his clients. Thank you, Cody, for everything you have done for me.

Posted by Nimisha | February 28, 2023 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Grateful to my attorney for so much!

I am ever so grateful to Mr. Salfen for his service in my mother's case. He and his team have shown so much patience throughout the process, and we are very happy that he has shown great tenacity and kindness in handling the case. As a result of his impressive litigation and negotiation skills, the e...ntire case was settled smoothly. Had it not been for Mr. Salfen, my mother and I would have been through even tremendous stress with each hearing date. Mr. Salfen is a very tenacious attorney who fights for his clients through thick and thin. He never left my mother's side through the whole process, and everything was thoroughly explained to her at each step. He went above and beyond at times to find her a translator, which meant a lot to her. She is ever so grateful to have had his assistance in handling everything.

Posted by Trinity | October 27, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Cody

Great Lawyer heavy duty charges, reduced to almost nothing very nice man explained everything in detail and took the time to make me understand what was going on I would recommend him to anyone

Posted by Richard | April 21, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Bad Decision - Lesson Learned

I found my self in a sticky situation a few months ago. I was having some drinks with friends in Los Altos, a few hours went by, and I made the critical mistake of thinking I was good to drive home. Long story short, I made it home perfectly fine. When I was pulling into my driveway, I accidental...ly hit my neighbors' trashcan. I pulled into my driveway and went back to the street to fix the can. Luck would have it, an officer patrolling the street happened to see me the whole incident. As I walked to the street to fix the trash can I was with met with lights and sirens....A few hours later I was sitting in a cell wondering if my world was about to collapse around me. Lucky for me, a friend recommend Cody and I got on a call with him right away. He was clear about what would happen next and provided me the best possible advice, "DON'T ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS". The overzealous DA wanted to charge me with hit and run and DUI. Cody was able to get both charges dropped and clear my record. He may not be the cheapest, but who wants a cheap lawyer. Thank you, Cody, for giving me my life back!

See All Client Reviews

Cody Bryan Kensit Salfen's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Cody
Ghazal Sharif headshot
Ghazal Sharif

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Cody is smart, talented and a force to be reckoned with in court. He is known as a master negotiator, outstanding writer and persuasive trial attorney. He is well–liked and respected by Judges, prosecutors, defense panel and his clients, alike. Most importantly, he is honest, kind and patient."

Negad Amr Zaky headshot
Negad Zaky

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Salfen is a thoughtful and effective advocate. He achieves great results for his clients."

Samuel Jackson Gordon headshot
Samuel Gordon

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Salfen is one of the most detail oriented and intelligent attorneys I have ever worked with and thus one of the most effective."

Dmitry Stadlin headshot
Dmitry Stadlin

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Cody truly cares about his clients and takes the time to analyze his cases very carefully. He thinks about potential tactics and outcomes and keeps his client informed throughout the case. He has a unique view on how to properly investigate a criminal case, and great insight on doing so, which yields phenomenal results in his cases."

Erik Steven Johnson headshot
Erik Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cody is a dedicated attorney and advocate for his clients. He is committed to legal excellence and cares about the people he represents. Without hesitation I endorse this lawyer."

Ralph Anthony Robles headshot
Ralph Robles

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He constantly uses his knowledge and experience to get the best results for his clients."

Joshua Beal Davis headshot
Joshua Davis

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 03

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"From working on several matters with Cody, I know him to be professional, dependable and hardworking. With his background in law enforcement and investigations, he brings experience seldom seen in a lawyer. I would not hesitate to refer a client with a serious matter to Cody."

Clare Capaccioli Velasquez headshot
Clare Velasquez

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Other

"Cody is professional, thorough, and courteous. He is dedicated to advising his clients of many legal options and strategies best suited for their individual needs and advocating for them throughout the legal system. Additionally he has experience in many types if criminal investigation, insight into the local justice system and a wealth of experience in a variety of related legal matters. I highly recommend him."

Michael David Lipzen headshot
Michael Lipzen

Criminal defense lawyer | May 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jon Ali Atabek headshot
Jon Atabek

Commercial real estate lawyer | May 21

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Salfen is thorough and tenacious, as well as responsive and detailed in his documentation of his work. His law enforcement background is certainly an asset."

Matthew Jacob Olsman headshot
Matthew Olsman

Criminal defense lawyer | May 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cody is a fantastic attorney with a strong background in investigative work. Cody has worked in the Santa Clara Criminal Justice System for many years. He is a passionate advocate and works hard for his clients. If you have a problem in Santa Clara County, Cody is the man to help you with it."

Elizabeth Elena Prehn headshot
Elizabeth Prehn

Criminal defense lawyer | May 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Cody for many years and I have found him to provide a comprehensive and vigorous criminal defense for the accused. In matters for which we work together, he is easy to work with and reliable."

View All Endorsements
Ghazal Sharif headshot
Ghazal Sharif

Criminal defense lawyer

Negad Amr Zaky headshot
Negad Zaky

Criminal defense lawyer

Ralph Anthony Robles headshot
Ralph Robles

Criminal defense lawyer

Dmitry Stadlin headshot
Dmitry Stadlin

Criminal defense lawyer

Thanh Duc Ngo headshot
Thanh Ngo

Criminal defense lawyer

Javier Demetrio Rios headshot
Javier Rios

Criminal defense lawyer

Erik Steven Johnson headshot
Erik Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer

Patrick Michael Coughlin headshot
Patrick Coughlin

Criminal defense lawyer

Samuel Jackson Gordon headshot
Samuel Gordon

Criminal defense lawyer

Jon Ali Atabek headshot
Jon Atabek

Contracts and agreements lawyer

Matthew Jacob Olsman headshot
Matthew Olsman

Immigration lawyer

Cameron Collier Brady headshot
Cameron Brady

Litigation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.5 (Superb)

Honors

2025

SuperLawyers Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2024

SuperLawyers Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2023

SuperLawyers Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2022

SuperLawyers Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2021

SuperLawyers Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2012

Investigative Industry Scholarship Award, CALI - California Association of Licensed Investigators

2011

CONTRACT LAW - Award for Academic Excellence/Highest Grade, Witkin Legal Institute

2010

Pro Bono Publico Award, Public Interest Legal Foundation

2007

Dean’s Scholar Award for Academic Excellence, San Jose State University, College of Applied Sciences and Arts

2004

Public Service Award, Los Gatos Lions Club

2004

Scholastic Achievement Award in Honor of Academic Excellence, State Assembly of California (State Senator Joseph Simitian)

Work Experience

2016 - Present

Founder & Managing Attorney, The Salfen Law Firm, A Professional Law Corporation

2011 - Present

Founder & Lead Private Investigator, Cody S Investigations, LLC

2014 - 2015

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT (Subject: Investigations), State of California, Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security and Investigative Services

Associations

2017 - Present

California Attorneys for Criminal Justice

Member

2012 - Present

CALI - California Association of Licensed Investigators

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

FELONY ASSAULT CHARGES DISMISSED - Client not guilty (due to insufficient evidence)

Not Guilty / Charges Dismissed - Insufficient Evidence

DISMISSED - Felony Grand Theft Auto Charge - DISMISSED Due to Insufficiency of the Evidence (San Jose, CA)

Not Guilty/Felony Grand Theft Auto Charge Dismissed - Insufficient Evidence

CHARGES DISMISSED - Three Petty Theft Charges Dismissed (Santa Clara County) - CA Penal Code Sec. 484/488

Not Guilty / All Charges Dismissed

CHARGES DISMISSED - Felony Drug Sales + Felony Possession of Stolen Property (Santa Clara County)

Not Guilty / All Charges Dismissed

DUI CONVICTION EXPUNGED (CA Penal Code Section 1203.4) - Santa Clara County

EXPUNGEMENT GRANTED / DUI CONVICTION SET ASIDE (CA PC 1203.4)

CHARGE DISMISSED - Resisting Arrest (Santa Clara County)

Not Guilty / Charge Dismissed

CHARGES DISMISSED - Hit & Run + Drug Possession + Driving on a Suspended License (Santa Clara County / South County)

Not Guilty / All Charges Dismissed

CHARGE DISMISSED - Domestic Violence (Santa Clara County)

Not Guilty / Charge Dismissed

CHARGES DISMISSED - Brandishing a Weapon + Battery (Santa Clara County / San Jose)

Not Guilty / All Charges Dismissed

ATTORNEY CODY SALFEN WINS DMV HEARING (Client Charged with 2nd DUI) - (Santa Clara County/San Jose)

DMV Hearing Win! No DMV License Suspension

CHARGE DISMISSED - Battery (Santa Clara County - San Jose)

Not Guilty / Charge Dismissed

CHARGES DISMISSED - Drug Charges - Under the Influence + Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Santa Clara County)

Not Guilty / All Charges Dismissed

DISMISSED - Domestic Violence/DV Charge - PC 243(e)(1)

Not Guilty / Charge Dismissed

DRUG CHARGES DISMISSED - Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Not Guilty / All Charges Dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

2015

San Francisco Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

2008

University of California - Santa Barbara

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2023

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office - Teen Academy

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office - Teen Academy / Courtroom Procedure / Mock Trial (Guest Instructor)

2016

Discovery Channel/Investigation Discovery True Crime Series Legal and Investigative Consultant and Researcher (Multiple Episodes)

2016

Coverage on CBS This Morning (National News) Re: Missing Person Investigation Missing Person Investigation

2016

Coverage of Missing Person Investigation in San Jose Mercury News Missing Person Investigation

2012

San Jose District - CALI - California Association of Licensed Investigators

Firearms Safety Presentation

Publications

2008

University of California, Santa Barbara Law & Society Journal Editorial Board Member

Languages

English

Spanish

Activity

Avvo Rating

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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