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Joseph Salvatore Farina

Sex crime Attorney at Sacramento, CA

4.2   10 reviews

About Joseph

Learn Joseph’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. Sex crime
    100%

    36 years, 3,000 cases

I've been a criminal defense attorney for 35 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.

Licensed for 36 years
State CA
Status Active
Acquired 1987
Updated 04/20/2023

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

Contact Joseph

Similar lawyers nearby

Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina
604 10th Street
Sacramento, CA, 95814

Reviews

4.2 / 5.0
  10 customer reviews
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Posted by Taylor | June 7, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired 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 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
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Posted by Margarita | November 30, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted 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
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted 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
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted 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
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted 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 the past.
Posted by anonymous | February 14, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Caring, knowledgable and honest !
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 .
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Posted by Kay | June 26, 2014
Wonderful attorney
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.
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Posted by Hollie | July 12, 2011
The Extra Mile Service
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.
Posted by anonymous | December 30, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Unprofessional
This laywer left an answer regarding to fictional minors. The answer wasn't an answer and instead a very unprofessional response. They belittled the person who asked the question instead of answering the question. Then when the person who asked the question responded asking for a serious answer, they simply stated that their question wasn't serious. Very unprofessional. Do not hire.
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Response from Joseph Farina December 31, 2020
I have no idea who this is. Unfortunately we get a number of trolls and bored teenagers who ask nonsense questions. Or mentally disturbed adults who are sexual predators who may well act on their disturbed fantasies. This site is designed for actual persons who have real criminal issues instead of mentally disturbed individuals who get their jollies asking sexually deviant questions about fictional minors. I also note that this disturbed person left their comment anonymously which proves they are a spineless coward and weasel. I suggest they seek professional sex offender treatment immediately before they hurt a child. Enough said.
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Posted by anonymous | April 7, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Extremely belittling
I’ve had a consultation with this man years ago and he’s so rude. I’m disabled and don’t know much about the law so I was learning for the first time. he told me in a sneer that I was more or less guilty and a bad person because what I was being accused of... I definitely hired someone else who didn’t put me down who wanted to explore options glad I did because the charges were reduced to a diversion program and then cleared. maybe he doesn’t like young people or disabled people certainly glad I listened to my gut and got off the phone
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Response from Joseph Farina April 9, 2019
Complete fabrication by an admitted thief and liar I have never consulted over the telephone or in person with any disabled person to whom I was rude. I have never told anyone that they were more or less guilty and that they were a bad person. Wonder why this popped up all of a sudden if this happened many years ago AND since I have never had a bad review? Let me guess - could it have something to do with a recent asker who did not like my advice and left me a vile and disgusting message? Guess some people don't like the truth being explained to them that by stealing from a retail establishment AND then using force towards the loss prevention officer that they are guilty of committing a robbery. What else can you expect from someone who leaves their message anonymously?
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 300-300 per hour
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.4 (Excellent)

Work Experience

  • Attorney-at-Law
  • Law Offices of Joseph S. Farina
  • 1993 - 2019

Education

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

Legal Cases

  • People v. Frank M.
  • Acquittal
  • People v. Curtis D.
  • Dismissal
  • People v. K.T.
  • Pled to misdemeanor battery
View all legal cases

Associations

  • State Bar of California
  • Member
  • N/A
  • California Public Defenders Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A

Languages Spoken

  • English

Speaking Engagements

  • 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

Attorney endorsements

Received (40)
Given (12)
Endorse Joseph
Unknown Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Attorney Farina."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 06
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."
Sex crime Attorney | May 08
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."
Sex crime Attorney | Jun 26
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Farina is a knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 24
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!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 18
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!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have followed much of the advice he offers, and it is sound and thoughtful."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 11
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 27
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 04
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 19
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."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Other
"This lawyer is knowledgeable, efficient and talented. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 09
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 07
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
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