Charges rejected
Felony domestic violence arrest. The prosecutor declined to file charges at the arraignment.
2022Home / Criminal Defense · Santa Monica
Criminal defense lawyer for Santa Monica.
Arrested or charged in Santa Monica? Our Beverly Hills office is minutes away. We defend misdemeanor and felony cases, DUIs and restraining orders arising in Santa Monica and the Westside.
Who prosecutes your case matters
In Santa Monica, many misdemeanor cases are prosecuted by the Santa Monica City Attorney's Office rather than the Los Angeles County District Attorney, while felonies are handled by the District Attorney. Each office has its own practices and priorities. Knowing who is on the other side shapes the strategy from the first court date.
Cases we handle
- DUI and DMV license hearings.
- Theft, shoplifting and property crimes.
- Assault, battery and domestic violence.
- Drug and marijuana offenses, including diversion.
- Restraining orders, for petitioners and respondents.
- Felony charges in Los Angeles Superior Court.
What to do right now
Do not discuss the case with police or on recorded jail calls. Write down what you remember while it is fresh, keep any paperwork you were given, and call a defense lawyer before your first court date. Early involvement can affect bail, whether charges are filed and the options available later.
Call (310) 415-9499 for a free 20-minute consultation.
Case results
Recent results.
Selected outcomes from the firm’s closed matters.
Dismissed
Firearm discharge case dismissed after the client completed diversion. No conviction.
2023Dismissed
Criminal case against a commercial property owner and its company over a cannabis tenant. Dismissed as to both.
2022Dismissed
Property owner charged with building-permit violations tied to a tenant's dispensary. Case dismissed.
2025Funds returned
Cash seized in a raid aimed at a neighbor was returned to the client, who was never charged.
2023Results depend on the facts of each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Client details are withheld for privacy.
Common questions
Questions clients ask first.
General information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Santa Monica?
A misdemeanor can still mean jail, probation, fines and a permanent record. A lawyer can often negotiate a reduction, diversion or dismissal, and can sometimes appear in court for you so you do not miss work.
Can my case be dismissed?
It depends on the evidence and your history. Dismissals can come from weaknesses in the evidence, from diversion programs, or from negotiation with the prosecutor.
Client reviews
5.0 stars on Google from 46 clients.
Very grateful to Mr. Manavi for representing me against a insurance company that was trying to deny me equitable payment in the repair of my childhood home after a negligent plumber. Mr. Manavi advocated fiercely, expertly, and strategically to secure a favorable outcome.
Saman had great attention to detail when it came to my case. … Not only was he accurate in the timeline I provided for my case but he was very clear in communicating his strategy and made me feel very comfortable with my case.
He was always available when I needed him and kept me informed throughout the entire process. He explained things clearly, but was also very understanding and easy to talk to, which made a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable.
Also serving
DUI Lawyer · Van Nuys & Los AngelesBusiness Litigation · Beverly Hills & Los AngelesCriminal Defense · GlendaleCriminal Defense · Beverly HillsCriminal Defense · InglewoodCriminal Defense · Long BeachReal Estate & Lease Disputes · Los AngelesExpungement · Los AngelesBusiness Formation · Los AngelesCriminal Defense · Van NuysDomestic Violence Defense · Los AngelesCriminal Defense · Orange CountyContract Disputes · Los AngelesRestraining Orders · Los Angeles
Contact
Get answers in one phone call.
The first 20 minutes are free. Have any documents handy, such as a contract, lease, citation or police report, and a short description of what you hope to achieve.
Email
saman@manavilaw.com
Include a short description of your legal issue and the best number to reach you.