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About Joseph
Biography
I've been a criminal defense attorney for more than 38 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 2025, I have handled sex cases almost exclusively, including child molestation, rape, sexual assault, statutory rape and possession of child pornography. Of my last 90 felony jury trials dating back to December 2008, about 95% 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.
Accused of a sex crime? Been falsely accused? Call me right away to discuss your case.
Practice Areas
1
Practice Area
Sex Crime
100%
39 years | 3,000 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
$ 400-450 per hour
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2022 2021 2020
...
+
7
Licenses
Licensed in California for 38 years
State: California
Acquired: 1987
No misconduct found
Location
Online Presence
Other places you can find Joseph online.
Joseph Salvatore Farina's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 11 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Taylor | June 7, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
number 1 lawyer in California by far
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 ...
Posted by Margarita | November 30, 2017 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
He is clear, diligent and very professional.
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.
Posted by Taron Singh | February 25, 2017 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Great unbiased information
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.
Posted by Barbara Restad | January 14, 2017 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Top notch
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.
Posted by Robert | October 26, 2015 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Honest
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 th...
Joseph Salvatore Farina's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse Attorney Farina."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Farina is a knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney."
"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!"
"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!"
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have followed much of the advice he offers, and it is sound and thoughtful."
"Joe is an excellent and dedicated attorney. He works tirelessly for his clients and has great results. I have no hesitation in endorsing him."
"Mr. Farina has proven himself to be an effective advocate for his clients. He is a well respected member of the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"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."
"This lawyer is knowledgeable, efficient and talented. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."
"Attorney Joseph Farina provides excellent legal answers on Avvo for individuals seeking assistance. An asset to the legal profession. I fully endorse him."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer."
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Experience
Work Experience
1993 - 2019
Attorney-at-Law, Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina
Associations
State Bar of California
Member
California Public Defenders Association
Member
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
Sample of Legal Cases
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
People v. Escamilla
Dismissal
People v. Thompson
Dismissal
People v. Wing
Dismissal
People v. Braeger
Dismissal
People v. Goodwin
Dismissal
People v. Cooks
Dismissal
People v. Madrigal
Acquittal
People v. Espitia
Dismissal
People v. Marin
Dismissal
People v. Devore
Acquittal
People v. Nixon
Acquittal
Education
1986
Santa Clara University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1982
University of Maryland, College Park
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2021
CCD MCLE Seminar
Child Molestation - Primer
2017
Sacramento Valley Paralegal Association MCLE Ethics Training
Starting a Criminal Defense Practice: A Primer
2013
CCD Brown Bag Seminar
How To Handle A Child Molestation Case
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Top Contributor
Joseph earned significant contribution points in 2022.
Legal Answers
Q&A
In a Criminal misdemeanor case - Do I have to get arraigned first before submitting a motion?
17 Nov 2024
Q&A
If I am being interviewed a third party investigator, can anything I say incriminate me and can I be legally represented?
26 Apr 2024
Q&A
How long would my daughter have to get a rap kit done ?
26 Apr 2024