Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina604 10th StreetSacramento, CA, 95814United States (916) 947-3912 (916) 947-3912

Joseph Salvatore Farina

Save

3.7(12)

Avvo Rating8.4

Sacramento, CA
Licensed for 34 years
Free consultation

Call (916) 823-8703

About Contact Reviews Cost

About Joseph

I've been a criminal defense attorney for 34 years. Like many attorneys, I started out in the DA's office but quickly moved on to private practice. In 1993, I opened the Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina and have been in private practice ever since.

From 2009 through 2019, I handled sex cases almost exclusively, including child molestation, rape, sexual assault, statutory rape and possession of child pornography. Of my last 75 felony jury trials dating back to December 2008, about 90% have been sex cases. I have a lot of trial experience in this area and am knowledgable about the applicable law. The law regarding sex crimes is complicated, confusing and horrible for the defense. The sentencing schemes are equally complicated and confusing.

I also handle other criminal defense matters such as internet sting cases, human trafficking, murder, attempted murder, robbery, burglaries, drug cases and gang related matters. If you need an attorney, you want someone who is not only experienced, but who works hard for you and is not afraid to challenge the DA and judges. Many attorneys seem afraid of judges who seem to know less than the they do but because they wear the black robes are afraid to stand up to them.

I've made my reputation by being thoroughly prepared and unwilliing to compromise my client's constitutional rights. Obviously I don't pick a fight with a judge if not necessary but I don't back down either. Zealous and unyielding representation is critically important if you are to stand a fighting chance against a system that is stacked against the defendant.

If you have a question about a criminal defense matter or need legal representation, call me. I offer free initial consultations and am available for evening and weekend appointments.

Practice areas

Sex crime: 100%
35 years, 3,000 cases

Languages spoken

English

Contact

Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina

604 10th Street
Sacramento, CA, 95814

Office (916) 947-3912
Mobile (916) 947-3912

Website

http://www.farinadefense.com

Message

Resume

License

State	Status	Acquired	Updated
CA	Active	1987	02/07/2022

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

Avvo Contributions

Legal answers	5531
Legal guides	3

work experience

Title	Company name	Duration
Attorney-at-Law	Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina	1993 - 2019

associations

Association name	Position name	Duration
State Bar of California	Member	N/A
California Public Defenders Association	Member	N/A
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers	Member	N/A

education

School name	Degree	Graduated
Santa Clara University School of Law	JD - Juris Doctor	1986
University of Maryland, College Park	BA - Bachelor of Arts	1982

speaking engagements

Conference name	Title	Date
CCD MCLE Seminar	Child Molestation - Primer	2021
Sacramento Valley Paralegal Association MCLE Ethics Training	Starting a Criminal Defense Practice: A Primer	2017
CCD Brown Bag Seminar	How To Handle A Child Molestation Case	2013

legal cases

Case name	Outcome
People v. Frank M.	Acquittal
People v. Curtis D.	Dismissal
People v. K.T.	Pled to misdemeanor battery
People v. Pointer	Dismissal
People v. Farr	Dismissal

See all Legal Cases

Show full resume

Reviews

3.5 stars3.7 (12)

5 Star		67%
4 Star		0%
3 Star		0%
2 Star		0%
1 Star		33%

Review Joseph Salvatore Farina

number 1 lawyer in California by far

5.0 stars

Posted by Taylor
June 7, 2019

That is so not true about joe being rude or snaring to ppl he’s so welcoming and helping in a business way and nor is he against young ppl or anyone at that because I’m in my 20s and he’s going to bat for me like I was his own son this man is by far the baddest man to fight for you and doesn’t miss a thing and he has just been shredding the cops that thought they where just going to charge me and my 2 co dees with whatever they felt like well he’s going to be my man at law from here on out and thanks again joe for everything so far

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Hired attorney

He is clear, diligent and very professional.

5.0 stars

Posted by Margarita
November 30, 2017

He did spend the time to reply and also call to go over the case I have, give me the time to explain my situation and kindly advise me.

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Great unbiased information

5.0 stars

Posted by Taron Singh
February 25, 2017

Mr. Salvatore provided me with great information. He even gave me an unbiased opinion about another attorney which is honest of him. He definitely knows his stuff and would be a great attorney for anyone. Would really recommend. Very friendly and provides a lot of information.

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Top notch

5.0 stars

Posted by Barbara Restad
January 14, 2017

Answered my question with "to the point" answer which was exactly what I needed. If I need to hire anyone for future he would be my choice, hands down.

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Honest

5.0 stars

Posted by Robert
October 26, 2015

The BEST advice I've ever been given by anyone - hands down. He was straight forward, to the point and didn't try to "sugar coat" his answers to try and win me over. He told me what I needed to hear - THE TRUTH. If more lawyers were like Joseph, the stigma of the shady attorney would be a thing of the past.

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Caring, knowledgable and honest !

5.0 stars

Posted by anonymous
February 14, 2015

He spent over an hour speaking with me via the phone about my situation .Luckily after I finally was interviewed by CPS , they found in favor of me being able to visit my children . There is no feeling like being falsely accused and having no clue what to do . If you find yourself in the same situation ,call J. Farina and get some peace of mind .

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Wonderful attorney

5.0 stars

Posted by Kay
June 26, 2014

Mr. Farina is a very good lawyer. He is aggressive when he needs to be, cares about his clients, he listens to you and gives you the time you need. He is very knowledgable and does a very good job battling for you. I would definitely hire him again and recommend him to anyone who needs a good lawyer ...thank you so much Mr. Farina for all you did for my family.

5.0 stars

Posted by Hollie
July 12, 2011

Mr. Farina is dedicated to his work, and always goes the extra mile to do what needs to be done for his client. He has a lot of emotion when dealing with certain situations, and can be very caring and concerned for his clients well being.

The Misogyny is REAL with this one

1.0 star

Posted by anonymous
August 20, 2021

Read the negative reviews, and believe them. He is very rude, and can’t even be professional on an online forum for attorneys. I’m sorry did your crystal ball not work for this either?

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Joseph Salvatore Farina's response: Whoa another biting response by an obvious malcontent. Guess she didn't like my insightful answer. Hey my crystal ball really is in the shop being repaired. As for being professional to people, just ask anyone who has a GENUINE legal issue that REALLY impact their lives - not anonymous posters asking for questions requiring rampant speculation wild guesses and a functioning crystal ball. At least she spelled professional and misogyny correctly. Thank God for spell check.

Horrible online review

1.0 star

Posted by Jason
February 22, 2021

Guy wants to assume that you are shoplifting. I bet the store would have been willing to take this to court if I was actually shoplifting instead of hiding while Im pursuing legal action. Never take a lawyer that's going to assume, they're too lazy to do their job.

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Consulted attorney

Joseph Salvatore Farina's response: Unfortunately this forum requires that we assume certain facts because askers usually leave out critical information or shade the facts to make seem like they are the victim. And because it is anonymous we can't assume anything they say is true. So in this case story security, with obviously nothing better to do, stops these people going out an entrance instead of an exit, because they thought they were shoplifting. The law allows a retailer to protect their property from thieves. So instead of accepting it as a misunderstanding and moving on, this asker wants to sue them and hit the lottery. This unstable person actually called me to yell at me ranting and raving as a I was enjoying lunch. Next time I won't accept calls from numbers I do not recognize. Angry and unhappy people like this are scary but at least I don't have to listen to them.

See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(40)

Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Aneeta Mishra, Unknown Attorney on May 29, 2021
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Attorney Farina.

Michael Doland, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 6, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

A total oversight not to have recommended Mr. Farina long before now. Mr. Farina's answers are consistently accurate, analytic, and customized to the needs of the Avvo askers. These are exactly the qualities that all clients would look for when hiring an attorney.

Aneeta Mishra, Unknown Attorney on May 29, 2021
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Attorney Farina.

Michael Doland, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 6, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matthew Lopas, Sex crime Attorney on May 8, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Joe for many years. Joe was the only conflict attorney that would take the sex crimes cases for many years. He is so knowledgeable about the nuances in the evidence code and sentencing that I consulted with him many times. Joe has presented many Continuing Legal Education seminars on sex crimes for all defense attorneys to attend. Joe is above board and honest.

John Karas, Sex crime Attorney on Jun 26, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe Farina is a tough, no nonsense, aggressive trial lawyer like myself. It is my pleasure to endorse him to anyone needing an experienced sex crimes lawyer.

Michael Parent, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 12, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Farina is a knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney.

Jonathan Reza, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 24, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Farina brings a certain knowledge about the criminal law that only 29 years of experience can bring. I'd recommend him to anyone seeking representation!

Joshua Kaizuka, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 18, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have run into Joe in the Sacramento area and he is well known to take on cases that are very tough that many other defense attorneys just aren't experienced enough to deal with or scared to do so. Great asset to the criminal defense bar!

Thomas Olsen, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 25, 2015
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Lukehart, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 16, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have followed much of the advice he offers, and it is sound and thoughtful.

John Elbert, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 11, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Joe is an excellent and dedicated attorney. He works tirelessly for his clients and has great results. I have no hesitation in endorsing him.

Clemente Jimenez, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 27, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Farina has proven himself to be an effective advocate for his clients. He is a well respected member of the legal community.

William Makler, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 7, 2015
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Thomas Spivack, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 4, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. It is very clear from his many years of experience, contributions and reviews that Mr. Farina is extremely knowledgeable and highly competent. I wouldn't hesitate recommending him.

Dorinda Myers, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 19, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

When you find yourself, or a loved one, in need of a criminal defense attorney, you need to find someone who is experienced, trial savvy and a tough litigator. Mr. Farina is just that. It is clear why he is well respected in the legal community.

Judd Nemiro, Unknown Attorney on Dec 12, 2014
Relationship: Other

This lawyer is knowledgeable, efficient and talented. I endorse this lawyer.

Douglas Borthwick, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 3, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

William Housley, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 28, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator.

Dmitry Gorin, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 9, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Attorney Joseph Farina provides excellent legal answers on Avvo for individuals seeking assistance. An asset to the legal profession. I fully endorse him.

Scott Stotz, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 7, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

It is a privilege to write this endorsement on behalf of Mr. Farina. Mr Farina's advice and comments are relevant, practical, and professional. He demonstrates a sincerity and understanding commensurate with his experience.

Dmitriy Shakhnevich, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 28, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Show recent endorsements

Matthew Lopas
John Karas
Clemente Jimenez
Dorinda Myers
Jay Finnecy
Richard Taub
Victoria Clemans
Christian Lassen
Christine McCall

Show who Joseph has endorsed

Cost

RATES

Hourly Rates $300-$300/hour

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

OTHER BILLING TYPES

Retainer Some attorneys require an upfront payment to secure their services before they begin their work.Always

PAYMENT METHODS

Cash, Check, Credit Card

Joseph Salvatore Farina

About Joseph

Contact

Resume

Reviews

number 1 lawyer in California by far

5.0 stars

He is clear, diligent and very professional.

5.0 stars

Great unbiased information

5.0 stars

Top notch

5.0 stars

Honest

5.0 stars

Caring, knowledgable and honest !

5.0 stars

Wonderful attorney

5.0 stars

The Extra Mile Service

5.0 stars

The Misogyny is REAL with this one

1.0 star

Horrible online review

1.0 star

Attorney endorsements

Cost