"I recently had the pleasure of working with Mr. Cocis on a legal matter, and I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. From our first consultation, Mr. Nic Cocis showed a deep understanding of the law and an exceptional level of commitment to my case. His attention to responding to my inquiries with phone calls and follow up emails in a timely manner is second none. Thanks to his hard work and dedication, we were able to resolve the legal matter successfully. I would highly recommend Mr. Cocis to anyone in need of a reliable and highly skilled attorney."— John H.
Southwest Riverside County Criminal Defense
25+ Years of Results at the Southwest Justice Center
Aggressive Representation at the Southwest Justice Center. Based in Murrieta, Serving all of Southwest Riverside County.


Your Defense Starts Here
A Weekly Presence at the Southwest Justice Center
If you are facing criminal charges in Southwest Riverside County, choosing the right attorney is the most important decision you will make. For over 25 years, The Law Office of Nic Cocis has provided aggressive, locally focused defense at the Southwest Justice Center. Unlike firms that travel into the area for occasional appearances, our practice is centered here in Riverside County. Our office is located minutes from the courthouse, and our deep familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and procedures provides a distinct strategic advantage for clients in Murrieta, Temecula, Lake Elsinore, and Menifee.
How We Defend You
Practice Areas
DUI & Traffic Offenses
First offense to felony DUI. License hearings, breath test challenges, and court defense at the SWJC.
Drug Crimes
Possession, sales, and transportation charges. We challenge search warrants and fight for reduced charges.
Theft & Property Crimes
Shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and grand theft. Aggressive defense to protect your record and freedom.
Sex Offenses
Discreet, aggressive defense for all sex crime allegations. Protecting your rights and reputation.
Violent Crimes
Assault, battery, and homicide charges. Strategic defense against serious felony allegations.
White Collar Crimes
Fraud, embezzlement, and forgery. Defending professionals facing financial crime accusations.
Domestic Violence
Restraining orders, PC 243(e)(1), and felony DV. Protecting your family, freedom, and future.
Firearm Offenses
Concealed carry, felon in possession, and assault weapon charges under California firearms law.
Juvenile Crimes
Defending minors in juvenile court. Focused on rehabilitation, record sealing, and second chances.
Expungement
Clear your criminal record under PC 1203.4. Restore your employment and housing opportunities.
Probation Violations
Missed check-ins, failed tests, and new arrests. We fight to keep you out of custody.
Federal Crimes
Federal drug, fraud, and conspiracy charges. Experienced defense in both state and federal courts.

Your Case Belongs at the Southwest Justice Center.
Your Defense Belongs Here.
If you were arrested in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Winchester, or French Valley, your future will likely be decided at the Southwest Justice Center (SWJC) on Auld Road. In these courtrooms, local knowledge is the ultimate advantage. Since 1999, Nic Cocis has been a weekly fixture in the SWJC, appearing before the same judges and negotiating with the same Riverside County prosecutors for over 25+ years. We don't just know the law; we know the specific nuances, procedural quirks, and judicial tendencies of the Southwest District. Whether you are facing a felony or a misdemeanor, you need a firm that treats the Southwest Justice Center as its home turf.
The Cocis Difference
Why Clients Trust Us
25+ Years in the SWJC
No other firm knows the Southwest Justice Center's judges, prosecutors, and procedures like we do.
Prosecution Insight
Internship at the Sacramento County DA's Office provided firsthand understanding of how the prosecution builds cases.
Responsive & Accessible
We respond promptly to calls and emails, and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs.
Personalized Defense
Every case is unique. We build custom defense strategies tailored to your specific charges and circumstances.
Avvo 10.0 Superb Rating
Recognized by Avvo with the highest possible rating for experience, industry recognition, and professional conduct.
Proven Track Record
Thousands of cases handled with a history of dismissals, reductions, and acquittals across all criminal charges.
Southwest Riverside County
Areas We Serve
Murrieta
Home Base — Steps from the Southwest Justice Center
Temecula
Serving Temecula's Wine Country Community
Menifee
Defending Menifee Residents in Riverside County Courts
Lake Elsinore
Criminal Defense for the Lake Elsinore Community
Wildomar
Local Defense for Wildomar Residents
Winchester
Protecting Winchester Families in Court
Canyon Lake
Serving the Canyon Lake Gated Community
French Valley
Defending French Valley Residents at the SWJC
Client Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
"One of the best! Our family had a great experience with Nic as he defended our son during a serious felony juvenile criminal case. We had confidence in him from the start as he clearly knew exactly what needed to be done and how to approach the case. He knew the ins and outs of the court, the judges etc. We are so happy we went with Nic. He ended up getting us an even better outcome and the case will be getting dropped in a few months."— Michael B. — Murrieta, CA
"Nic, I cannot even put into words the amount of gratitude I have. You are an amazing attorney and a genuine nice guy. I have no doubt without your hard work and determination my case would have ended much differently. I will be forever grateful. Again, thank you."— F.D. — Temecula, CA
Get Started Today
Free & Confidential Consultation
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Southwest Riverside County, time is critical. Contact the Law Office of Nic Cocis today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
