Sean A Nicholson

Criminal defense Attorney at Vancouver, WA

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Resume

Amazing results!

Highly recommend.

About Sean

Learn Sean’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

99%

Domestic Violence, Driving Under the Influence & DMV Defense, Theft/Fraud/Embezzlement Cases, Elder Abuse, Drug Offenses, Assault/Battery, Burglary/Robbery, Trespassing, Vandalism, Probation Violations.
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25 years
Expungement

1%

If you have fulfilled your probation obligations, we can aid you in having your guilty or no contest plea changed to a not guilty finding and dismissal of the accusations or pleading. Thereby effectively cleaning your record. Call for details.
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25 years

Pacific Defender Law Group is a law firm with vast expertise and experience in defense of all criminal charges. We are familiar and experienced with the criminal justice system, the judges, and the prosecutors throughout the Vancouver and Spokane Washington area. Mr. Sean A. Nicholson is in court every day and have developed excellent working relationships with the judges, court clerks, and prosecutors. We strive to provide our clients with the benefits of our experience, to offer exceptional and personal representation to the clients of Pacific Defender Law Group.

Unlike many Law Firms, we do not contract our cases to outside attorneys or law firms, we handle the cases personally, and do not have inexperienced associates appearing in court. When you trust Pacific Defender Law Group to handle your criminal matter, it is handled in house and personally by Sean A. Nicholson, Esq. and Leslie S. Nicholson, Esq.

Our attorneys have well over fifty years aggregate experience practicing law. We use a team approach on all cases so that multiple attorneys review and have input on all cases. It is important that a team approach be used when dealing with the defense of criminal offenses so that “no stone goes unturned” and you, as the client, receive the benefit of multiple and thorough reviews of your case by experienced attorneys. Our experience has been that most prosecutors are overzealous and regularly overcharge individuals with crimes that are not based on the facts of the case. Do not serve unnecessary jail time, prison time, or pay unnecessary fines because you are not adequately represented. An experienced law firm can and does make a substantial difference.

It is imperative in almost all crimes (especially in DUI and domestic violence cases) that you obtain representation as soon as possible. Give our office a call so we can start working for you immediately; all initial consultations are free. We have experience and will appear in court for you anywhere in or around Vancouver, Washington.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 24 years

State WA

Status Active

Acquired 2019

Updated 03/19/2023

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 1998

Updated 11/30/2022

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

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Reviews

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4.7 / 5.0

45 customer reviews

4 Star

2 Star

Posted by anonymous | December 9, 2022

Amazing results!

Sean and Leslie are experienced and knowledgeable about the law. They explained everything regarding our case to us, laid out the options and made reasonable recommendations so that we could resolve this and move on with our lives. We are so grateful for their guidance.

Posted by anonymous | May 23, 2022

Highly recommend.

Mr Nicholson is a fantastic attorney. Came to him after finding myself in a rough situation, and he was informative and helpful before even before officially becoming my attorney. After hiring him , he was able to work with the judge to produce the ideal result, a complete dismissal. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, which I hope you don’t, Mr. Nicholson is just who you want in your corner.

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Posted by Lucy | April 22, 2022

Best guy for a difficult situation

I hired Sean after speaking with about five other lawyers. I liked that he was no-nonsense and direct with me, which helped me face the dire situation I was in. It was my first DUI but I had a high alcohol amount and did not act so nicely to the cops. Sean calmed me down and walked me through the process I would face. When he wasn't available by phone, Leslie was or he answered by e-mail.. I got a great deal and awesome help. Thank you Pacific Defender!

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Posted by anonymous | January 27, 2021

Fantastic lawyer for my misdemeanor Hit and Run

I'm going to preface this by saying don't be an idiot and commit a hit and run. Unfortunately that is exactly what I did. Long story short, no one got hurt and I got a misdemeanor for my crime. I hired Sean after reading his firm's testimonials and I wasn't sure what to expect from a legal standpoint. Fortunately, Sean alleviated all my concerns and charged a very fair rate, especially with the outcome that I essentially got a driving infraction and my misdemeanor dismissed. His email replies are timely and punctual and he will absolutely fight for the best deal for you. I've seen some of the other testimonials and despite the fact that my charges weren't as severe as others, but I was still worried about myself. I didn't know what to expect but he definitely exceeded my expectations in retrospect. Sean is a highly recommended lawyer for criminal defense and I will come back to him for any other help. I just hope it won't come down to that in the future!

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Posted by Tracy | March 13, 2020

HIGHLY recommend Sean A Nicholson

Sean Nicholson was amazing during the entire process. He was always available to answer any questions that I had, and would always keep me up to date on what was going on with my case. Having this be my first case, I was unaware of the process. Sean Nicholson made sure to help me understand all aspects of the case and made me feel at ease the entire time. I would 100% choose his services if you are looking for a smart, trustworthy and fully educated lawyer to help you with your case!

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Posted by anonymous | December 9, 2019

The reality is you never think you will find yourself in a situation that you need an attorney, but if you ever find yourself needing on I highly recommend Sean Nicholson. He quickly responded my emails and calls, and he patiently explained every step of the process. I am grateful I had him there by my side.

Posted by anonymous | December 4, 2019

Highly recommend working with Sean Nicholson

Highly recommend working with Leslie and Sean Nicholson. I remember when I first called Sean, he was about to leave the office but decided to stay and listen to my story. I was rambling and worried about the consequences of being falsely accused of a crime by my narcissistic ex. He put all my worries at ease when he reassured me that with the ample evidence I had, he was fully confident he and Leslie would help me win my case. Before any trial, my case was dismissed and I won my settlement agreement. Really appreciate all the work Leslie and Sean did for me.

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Posted by Kristene | July 22, 2019

Sean and Leslie are the Best

Have had Sean take on 3 cases that we thought were hopeless. By the time I called Sean I was about ready to give up on the case. He is very responsive returning all calls quickly and prepared us extremely well for our cases. We got the restraining order dropped which never would have happened without Sean and Leslie’s incredible work. They went far beyond my expectations. After that we Sean agreed to stay with us for upcoming custody case since it had to do with the restraining order and once again he and Leslie went above and beyond and we were able to get exactly what we were hoping for. He also was able to get an “under the influence” completely dismissed. I don’t know what I would have done without them during this time. They were my saving grace. Absolutely incredible lawyers and human beings

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Posted by Paul | May 10, 2019

FELONIES DISMISSED

He was very communicative, super professional, respectful and kind. At my age, I was very anxious and nervous about my serious case. With his confidence and reassurance, I was made more comfortable with my situation and it relieved me a lot of my stress and worries - especially my mom. He was always straight to point and gave me realistic scenarios. After all of this he got my very serious case dismissed! He was super helpful and an honest man. Did not overcharge unlike other lawyers I've had before him. I would very much recommend him to my family and friends. It's important to note that my friend and I got arrested at the same time. My friend's charges were lower in number and a lot less serious than mine. However with Nicolas, my charges were completely dropped, as my friend with a different lawyer ended up with probation for a year. HES THE MAN! And to help people mines was serious felonies and if I was charged I would have had a horrible future and I am way to young and I still want a future career as a law enforcement officer! My friend (who isn’t my friend anymore) has all misdemeanors and had to take a pledge deal.

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Posted by Tetyana | April 21, 2019

Thank You Sean & Leslie

Both of you went above and beyond in resolving this horrible and embarrassing mistake I made. He was cheaper than all other firms and was professional in all his dealings with us. He was knowledgeable in everything concerning my case and it was resolved exactly how he explained during our first conversation. We can’t thank you enough for your attentiveness and compassionate understanding. I would recommend your firm without hesitation to anyone in need of some honest help. Thank You

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Posted by Colby | October 30, 2018

Colby D.

Sean really took the time to understand myself to my wife’s questions, he delivered as promised on the outcome of our cases. Sean is very professional and I highly recommend him to anyone.

Posted by Monica | September 22, 2018

THANK YOU SEAN NICHOLSON!

I was cited for a misdemeanor drug possession, then the DA amended the charges to possession for SALES. AFTER I got clean and straightened out my life. With my record, this could have been devastating. While the case was still pending, my mom was diagnosed with cancer. Not only did I stand to lose the life I worked so hard to rebuild, but if they had put me in custody, I wouldn't have been here for my mom, who was dying and needed me more than ever. Every good thing in my life rested in the hands of my attorney. Sean Nicholson took a case that could have ended with me in prison for many years and convinced them to drop it back down to a misdemeanor, and give me two years of COURT (unsupervised) probation. NO JAIL TIME. AND fines and fees were waived. I hadn't dared to even HOPE for such a good outcome. I literally could not have asked for more. The only way it gets better than that is an outright dismissal, which, in this case, was NEVER going to happen, because they had me dead to rights. This attorney may not win any awards for being Mr. Congeniality, but don't be fooled - he will FIGHT for you. He saved my life as I know it, and because of him, I was at HOME, holding my mother's hand when she passed. There are no words that can adequately express my gratitude. If you want a lawyer that will do the very best by you, and won't settle for less, hire Sean Nicholson.

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Posted by Darwin | August 24, 2018

Sean saved me

Sean was amazing. He went through almost a year of fighting for us due to the DA's delays and was so patient and kind with what our case was. His dilligence in all of or court appearances didn't faze him. He kept reassuring us of what the best outcome would be and he delivered just as he said he would. If you need an attorney, Sean and his group are one you can count on.

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Posted by Gail | January 30, 2018

Case Dismissed!!

The Nicholson Law Offices are fantastic! My son had a complicated case and was too sick to attend court. Sean Nicholson made it so that Danny didn't have to appear in court. Sean had to appear six times and finally got the case dismissed and he kept us informed throughout the whole ordeal. His price was very reasonable and his work superb! I highly recommend him.

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Posted by N. Singh | January 15, 2018

The Greatest Lawyer!!!

I drank, I drove and shortly after I crashed into several parked cars. Don't ask how it happened, it just happened. The first thing I did after I got bailed out of jail, I called Sean. My wife used Sean and his team before on a different issue and Sean and his team did a tremendous job on that case. I was looking at serious felony charges, but knowing that I had Sean and his team on my side I knew I would be in great hands. Sean and his team worked out a deal with the DA's office that even left my wife and I in shock. That's how much of a great lawyer he his. Thanks Sean!! So if you are in a jam or ever get yourself in a jam and you need a lawyer stop looking and go with Sean Nicholson and his team just do yourself that favor, trust me I did. Thanks for everything Sean!

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Posted by Kathy | January 12, 2018

Sean worked tirelessly on my behalf!

I was pulled over and charged with a DUI about a year ago, and luckily, Sean reached out to me. He represented me in court and got my fine decreased significantly. But most important, he battled the DMV on my behalf throughout 2017, and I never got my license suspended--all thanks to Sean. For all his work, he only charged one up-front fee. I can't recommend him enough!

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Posted by David | December 7, 2017

One Bad Night

I have never had any trouble with the law and one night bad night I did and need a Lawyer. I called many from the web and came across Sean. Sean made me feel comfortable and confident that he would get this all cleared up. He was able get it taken care of and put up with me calling all time and would answer any questions I had. I thank you Mr. Nicholson

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Posted by anonymous | October 30, 2017

Your Are In Good Hands with Nicholson & Nicholson

I have never been in trouble with the law my entire life. I made a mistake and I was so fortunate to hire Sean Nicholson to represent my case. I was in uncharted territory with the criminal justice system and Mr. Nicholson was by my side every step of the way. He explained the charges against me and advised me with insight, knowledge and legal guidance that I could not have provided on my own. He spoke calmly, clearly and was very patient with my questions and concerns. We met three times at the courthouse. He provided me with a strategy and the possible outcomes. He delivered and I can not be more thrilled with his performance. I am truly grateful for the experience and so humbled and thankful that our paths have crossed. I am working through my probation and when the time is right we will work on expunging my criminal record and I can proceed with my life. Hopefully, I will never need his services again after my incident but I truly and whole-heartedly recommend his expertise and services!

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Posted by Alex | August 23, 2017

LEGAL REPRESENTATION

Mr. Sean Nicholson conducted my case covering all details possible, and the day at the Court he met me outside the Court Room, as previously discussed, and before going to the podium to see the Judge. He explained me that he had met the Judge and the D.A. to discuss my case, getting a reduced infraction with a very affordable fine, and explained to me all the options I had besides the offer from the Court, for me to take an informed decision. He spoke calmly, not using too many technical terms, giving time to understand. Then we went to the Court Room, and at the end, with an outcome matching exactly what Mr. Nicholson had told me minutes before, Mr. Nicholson got a receipt from one of the clerks and gave it to me for me to pay the fine, adding that in one year we would apply for expungement, so I could have my records clean again. He also added that I could call him for any further questions I might have. In summary, I can describe Mr. Nicholson’s performance with one word: Excellence (5 stars).

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Posted by Shelly | August 9, 2017

Excellent Representation.

The Nicholson Law Office was VERY helpful in all aspects of the court proceedings. I would just like to thank Mr. Nicholson personally for the help with my case. I appreciate his candor and honesty with my situation. I am pleased with the outcome and handling of the case. I will gladly recommend his services to any of my friends or family that may ever need it. Thank you again for your teams assistance.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.3 (Excellent)

Work Experience

Owner/Attorney
Nicholson Law Offices
1998 - Present

Education

Golden Gate Univ SOL
JD - Juris Doctor
1998

Western Oregon University
undergraduate
1994

Legal Cases

State of Washington v. W.C.
Reckless Driving

People of the State of California v. J.H.
Dismissed Felony Conviction Reduced to Misdemeanor

People of the State of California v. J.H.
Dismissal

View all legal cases

Associations

Washington Defender Association
Attorney Member
2021 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section
2000 - Present

Alameda County Bar Association, Trial Practice Section
2000 - Present

California Public Defenders Association
1999 - Present

San Francisco County Bar Association
1998 - Present

State Bar of California, Solo and Small Firm Section
1998 - Present

State Bar of California, Criminal Law Section
1998 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Excellent Acheivement in Criminal Defense
Am Jur Bankroft Whitney
1998

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)

Given (8)

Endorse Sean

William Fitzgerald

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christine Bogosian

Criminal defense Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent attorney and always looks out for the best interest of the client."

Bradford Weston

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked closely with Mr. Nicholson and the other partners in his firm for over ten years. They are all great lawyers and great people. They have vast knowledge of the criminal law issues throughout the entire S.F.Bay Area and beyond and are smart and efficient lawyers. I go to Sean for advice on complicated legal matters and enjoy working with him and the other partners and associates at Nicholson and Nicholson. Sean Nicholson gets things done."

Daryl Thompson

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Sean Nicholson for his expertise in DUI/DWI."

Moises Aguilar

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Nicholson is a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney. He is an indispensible asset to his clients and the criminal defense community at large. I would not hesitate to refer a client to him if the occasion arose."

Erik Nicholson

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Mr. Nicholson was my mentor through college and law school. I had the opportunity to work in his office for several years and can personally attest to hundreds of victories on misdemeanor and felony cases as well as DMV administrative hearings. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need."

Tyrone Martinez

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyers outstanding work. I've seen first hand how hard Mr. Nicholson works for his clients. His knowledge of criminal knowledge is deep and his commitment to his clients impressive. Mr. Nicholson is truly an asset to his clients and the legal community."

Christian Lassen

Unknown Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Yvonne Todd

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 23
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I strongly endorse this lawyer. He is an hard working aggressive attorney who fights for his clients and gets great results. His tremendous amount of experience separates him from the rest. Sean is truly an asset to the legal community."

View more endorsements

Christine Bogosian

Criminal defense

Bradford Weston

Criminal defense

Daryl Thompson

DUI and DWI