Case Results
A selection of case outcomes achieved by Attorney Nic Cocis at the Southwest Justice Center, in federal courts, and throughout California. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.-
Round-the-Clock Surveillance Ended with SWAT Team Entering House
The ChallengeDuring early morning hours, the Sheriff Department’s SWAT team executed a search warrant at our client’s home looking for illegal guns, rifles, ammunition and gang-related paraphernalia. The client’s entire family was woken-up at gun point and detained for several hours while their house was searched. The search warrant was based on information that was obtained during someone else’s arrest 2 weeks prior and then followed-up with round-the-clock surveillance of our client’s house for 10 days
Our StrategyWe reviewed the search warrant and concluded that it lacked probable cause to connect our client’s home to any illegal activity. We then challenged the warrant in court, arguing that it had been issued in violation of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The judge agreed and suppressed the illegally obtained evidence.
The Result DISMISSED -
15 Felony Charges Dismissed in Nationally Significant Privacy Case
The ChallengeOur office represented an investigative journalist in a high-profile criminal case that tested the boundaries of California privacy law and undercover journalism. Following the release of undercover videos exposing practices within the fetal tissue procurement industry, the California Attorney General’s Office initiated an aggressive prosecution alleging 15 felony violations of California Penal Code §632, the state’s confidential communications recording statute. The litigation drew intense national interest and continued for nearly eight years. During this time, the undercover reporting led to significant legislative and congressional impact, including the enactment of Assembly Bill 1671 and a nationwide inquiry by the United States House Select Investigative Panel on Planned Parenthood. This case was documented extensively by major international and national outlets, including: CBN News; Associated Press; BBC News; NPR; Fox News; Courthouse News Service
Our StrategyOur defense focused on the intersection of First Amendment protections and the technical requirements of California’s recording laws. We systematically challenged the prosecution’s narrative, arguing that the recordings were made in public or semi-public settings where there was no reasonable expectation of confidentiality. By meticulously analyzing the context of each encounter and the specific intent of the investigative process, we positioned the case as a matter of protected journalistic activity. This prolonged, aggressive defense through years of litigation and multiple court levels ultimately created the leverage necessary to dismantle the prosecution’s felony case.
The Result ALL 15 FELONY CHARGES DISMISSED; 1 MISDEMEANOR; ZERO PUNISHMENT -
A Registered Nurse Arrested Twice for Possession with Intent to Sell
The ChallengeA nurse was facing two separate legal matters involving allegations of possession of marijuana for sale and possession of cocaine for sale. Because the second arrest occurred while the client was out on bail for the first, they were facing a mandatory sentencing enhancement. These combined charges put the client’s nursing license and professional future at significant risk.
Our StrategyWe focused our efforts on a negotiation that would address both cases simultaneously. We successfully convinced the prosecutor to dismiss the marijuana case and the “out on bail” enhancement entirely. For the remaining cocaine charge, we negotiated a reduction from “possession for sale” to “transportation for personal use.” This change in the nature of the charge allowed the client to avoid a prison sentence. The case was resolved with probation and house arrest, allowing the client to move forward with their life.
The Result 1st CASE DISMISSED. 2nd CASE PROBATION AND HOUSE ARREST -
Accessory to Murder After a Restaurant Shooting – Probation Secured
The ChallengeOur client was charged as an accessory to murder following a shooting at a busy Temecula restaurant. The prosecution alleged that our client aided the primary suspect in fleeing the scene after a fatal confrontation.
Our StrategyAfter a careful review of police reports and video surveillance footage, we established that our client was nearly shot himself while attempting to de-escalate the confrontation between his friend and one of the victims. We presented this evidence to the prosecution to negotiate a significantly reduced charge and sentence, emphasizing our client’s lack of intent to commit a crime.
The Result PRISON SENTENCE AVOIDED; PROBATION GRANTED -
Bar Fight Resulted In Felony Charges of Assault Causing Great Bodily Injury
The ChallengeOur client was charged with felony assault causing Great Bodily Injury (PC 245(a)(4) and PC 12022.7) following a bar fight. Due to the severity of the injuries and the victim’s loss of consciousness, the prosecution sought a multi-year sentence in prison, citing the GBI enhancement as a primary reason for a lengthy term.
Our StrategyWe challenged the prosecution’s narrative by presenting evidence of self-defense and mitigating the “Great Bodily Injury” allegation. By focusing on the intent and the specific circumstances of the encounter, we negotiated a reduction of the charges. The District Attorney agreed to drop the GBI enhancement and reduce the felony to a misdemeanor battery. Our client avoided years in prison, receiving only probation and a few days of house arrest.
The Result FELONY REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR; NO PRISON -
Book Author and Newspaper Editor Avoids Prison in Serious Dog Bite Case
The ChallengeA book author and former newspaper editor was charged with felony criminal negligence under California Penal Code 399 after his large dog bit a child on the face and neck. Authorities alleged the dog had a history of aggression toward children, and due to the severity of the injuries and the animal’s history, prosecutors sought a state prison sentence.
Our StrategyAfter lengthy court proceedings, we presented mitigating evidence regarding our client’s background and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Through persistent advocacy at sentencing, we were able to persuade the judge that incarceration was unnecessary. Our client was ultimately sentenced to probation and house arrest, avoiding the prison term sought by the prosecution.
The Result PROBATION AND HOUSE ARREST INSTEAD OF PRISON. -
Bookkeeper Arrested for Theft of $330,000 from Temecula Area High School
The ChallengeA longtime bookkeeper for a public high school was arrested and accused of stealing approximately $330,000. Prosecutors filed seven felony charges, including embezzlement by a public officer, grand theft, forgery, and money laundering. Due to the significant financial loss alleged in the case, our client faced many years in prison if convicted.
Our StrategyOver the course of nearly two years of negotiations with the prosecutor’s office, we worked to resolve the case in a manner that avoided a lengthy prison sentence. By presenting mitigating factors, including our client’s background, lack of prior criminal history, and willingness to accept responsibility, we successfully negotiated a resolution that substantially reduced the potential consequences.
The Result PROBATION AND ONE YEAR IN CUSTODY, AVOIDING A LENGTHY PRISON SENTENCE -
Private School Defeats Cal/OSHA Citations After Illegal Search Warrant
The ChallengeWe represented a private school in San Jose, CA, against government overreach. During COVID restrictions, Cal/OSHA sought a search warrant based on a flimsy, anonymous complaint that staff weren’t wearing masks. With the warrant in hand, Cal/OSHA inspected the entire school and issued citations.
Our StrategyFor nearly 3 years, we challenged the legality of the search warrant, arguing it violated the school’s 4th Amendment protection against unreasonable searches. We filed extensive briefing demonstrating that Cal/OSHA had misled the judge who issued the warrant, and that the warrant lacked the specificity required by the Constitution.
The Result DISMISSED -
Not Guilty: Directed Verdict for Church Pastor Arrested at DMV
The ChallengeA church Pastor and two other individuals were arrested for alleged trespassing at a DMV office. The arrests occurred while one individual was reading a Bible aloud near a line of people waiting for the office to open. Despite the DMV being closed at the time, the Pastor was prosecuted in criminal court. The stakes involved not only the client’s criminal record but the fundamental protection of civil liberties and the right to be free from unlawful government interference.
Our StrategyA church Pastor and two other individuals were arrested for alleged trespassing at a DMV office. The arrests occurred while one individual was reading a Bible aloud near a line of people waiting for the office to open. Despite the DMV being closed at the time, the Pastor was prosecuted in criminal court. The stakes involved not only the client’s criminal record but the fundamental protection of civil liberties and the right to be free from unlawful government interference.
The Result NOT GUILTY – DISMISSED -
Church Pastor Facing Criminal Charges for Violating COVID-19 Regulations
The ChallengeIn a first-of-its-kind criminal prosecution in California, a church pastor was charged with a misdemeanor for hosting an outdoor worship and baptism service near the Huntington Beach Pier. The service occurred during COVID-19 restrictions when indoor church gatherings were prohibited. Authorities alleged the event violated the Huntington Beach Municipal Code by holding a “large scale event” without a permit, and the pastor was ordered to appear in Orange County Superior Court.
Our StrategyOver nearly 10 months of legal proceedings, we demonstrated to the prosecutor that the pastor’s religious service did not constitute a criminal offense. We further showed that the outdoor worship and baptisms did not meet the legal definition of a “Permit Required” event under the city’s code. As a result, the case was dismissed, protecting the pastor’s rights and allowing him to continue his ministry without criminal liability.
The Result DISMISSED -
Client Whose DNA was Linked to Kidnap and Rape Faced a Sentence of 50 Years to Life
The ChallengeA client was recently arrested for a 1995 rape and kidnapping after a DNA match linked him to the scene. The California DOJ’s Bureau of Forensic Services calculated the DNA profile match at 1 in 54 quadrillion. Facing a sentence of 50 years to life, the client was confronted with decades-old allegations and forensic evidence that appeared insurmountable.
Our StrategyOur defense focused on the significant delay in prosecution and the loss of due process. We demonstrated that law enforcement allowed the investigation to go dormant for 14 years, during which time the police department destroyed critical evidence that could have been used to exonerate our client. By highlighting this failure to preserve evidence, we successfully negotiated a resolution that reduced the client’s exposure from a life sentence to just eight years.
The Result 50-TO-LIFE EXPOSURE REDUCED TO 8 YEARS -
Criminal Case Involving “Hollywood Madam” Heidi Fleiss
The ChallengeAfter a long term romantic relationship ended, our client was accused of felony vandalism and several misdemeanor offenses by her former lover, “Hollywood Madam” Heidi Fleiss.
Our StrategyThrough negotiations with the prosecution and a careful review of the evidence, we successfully challenged several of the allegations. The misdemeanor charges were dismissed, and the felony vandalism charge was reduced to misdemeanor vandalism, substantially limiting our client’s criminal exposure.
The Result FELONY CHARGES REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR -
Cultivation of 1,000+ Marijuana Plants & Firearms
The ChallengeOur client was arrested along with two others by the Sheriff’s Department and the Department of Fish & Wildlife in connection with the cultivation of approximately 1,000 marijuana plants, possession of about 15 pounds of processed marijuana, cash, and several firearms at a residence in Temecula.
Our StrategyWe conducted a detailed analysis of the search warrant and the prosecution’s evidence linking our client to the alleged operation. Through an independent investigation and strategic negotiations with the prosecution, we showed that the evidence was insufficient to support the charges, protecting our client’s rights.
The Result ALL CHARGES DISMISSED -
DA’s Office Ordered to Return $360,000 in Asset Forfeiture Case
The ChallengeThe District Attorney’s Office seized approximately $360,000 in cash, luxury vehicles, and motorcycles following an investigation into sophisticated “roof-top” burglaries of jewelry stores. The prosecution moved for asset forfeiture, seeking to permanently keep the seized property for law enforcement use. The primary challenge was ensuring these funds were used to compensate victims rather than being absorbed by the District Attorney’s Office.
Our StrategyWe challenged the forfeiture proceedings by arguing that the seized assets should be prioritized for victim restitution. We presented a legal case demonstrating that the funds were essential to making the affected jewelry stores whole. Our strategic approach convinced the judge to deny the request to keep the full amount. Instead, the court ordered that a significant portion of the money be returned and earmarked for restitution, ensuring the funds were used to compensate the victims of the burglaries.
The Result ASSETS REDIRECTED FOR VICTIM RESTITUTION -
DEA Wiretap Case Led to Arrest for Possession of 5 Pounds of Meth
The ChallengeOur client was arrested for transporting approximately five pounds of methamphetamine and faced a potential sentence of up to seven years in state prison. The case originated from one of the nation’s largest wiretap operations, where the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) intercepted communications from thousands of individuals. Because the arrest was tied to a high-level federal investigation, the prosecution initially maintained a firm position on a lengthy prison commitment.
Our StrategyOur defense focused on the legality of the underlying wiretap operation, which was at the center of a national inquiry regarding its legal authorization. We conducted a technical review of the warrant used to intercept our client’s telephone calls and identified significant legal deficiencies. By demonstrating that the evidence against our client was obtained through a potentially illegal wiretap, we gained the leverage necessary to secure a favorable resolution. The client was sentenced to 180 days of Caltrans work, successfully avoiding any time in state prison.
The Result PRISON SENTENCE AVOIDED – 180 DAYS CALTRANS WORK -
DUI Charges Reduced for Marine Sergeant to Protect Career
The ChallengeA Marine Sergeant was arrested for DUI with a blood alcohol level 2.5 times the legal limit. Given the high BAC and his military status, a conviction carried severe professional consequences, including a mandatory end to his long and dedicated military career.
Our StrategyWe focused on the client’s exemplary service record and the devastating impact a DUI conviction would have on his future. By negotiating with the prosecution and highlighting his commitment to his duties, we secured a reduction of the charges to a “wet reckless” (Vehicle Code 23103.5).
The Result DUI CHARGES REDUCED; MILITARY CAREER PRESERVED -
Embezzlement and Grand-Theft of $250,000 by Bookkeeper
The ChallengeOur client, an employee at a medical device company, was accused of high-level embezzlement, grand theft and financial misconduct. However, our investigation revealed that company executives had fabricated these allegations as a preemptive strike to discredit the client. The executives were attempting to conceal a multi-million dollar fraud scheme involving spinal surgery hardware—a “scam” that eventually drew significant national media attention for its impact on patient safety.
Our StrategyWe shifted the focus from the defense to an investigation into the company’s internal financial practices. By uncovering evidence that the accusations were a smokescreen for the executives’ own fraudulent activities, we effectively dismantled the prosecution’s case. We presented proof of the broader scheme to the authorities, demonstrating that the client was being used as a scapegoat for a larger corporate conspiracy. As a result of our findings, the criminal investigation into our client was terminated.
The Result DISMISSED -
Embezzlement of $212,000 by Club Treasurer
The ChallengeA former treasurer for a high school band booster club was accused of misappropriating over $212,000 in funds over several years. Given the substantial amount stolen from a non-profit organization and the breach of community trust, the client faced a significant state prison sentence for grand theft and white-collar crime enhancements.
Our StrategyWe focused on a mitigation strategy centered on financial restitution rather than a traditional adversarial defense. We negotiated directly with both the high school and the District Attorney’s Office to craft a realistic, structured repayment plan. By demonstrating the client’s commitment to making the organization whole, we successfully convinced the court that a custodial sentence was not the most productive outcome. The judge granted a sentence of probation and house arrest, allowing the client to maintain employment and fulfill their restitution obligations while avoiding jail time.
The Result PRISON AVOIDED; RESTITUTION PLAN SECURED -
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Charged with 12 Counts of Fraudulent Use of Employer’s Credit Card
The ChallengeAn Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) was terminated and subsequently charged with 12 criminal counts of fraudulent credit card use under Penal Code 484g. The allegations involved the unauthorized use of an employer’s card for personal purchases. With a dozen criminal counts pending, the client faced not only potential jail time but the permanent revocation of his EMT certification and an end to his career in emergency services.
Our StrategyWe negotiated with the prosecutor’s office to secure the client’s entry into the Deferred Entry of Judgment (DEJ) program. By emphasizing his professional background and lack of prior record, we diverted the case away from traditional prosecution. Upon the client’s successful completion of the program, all 12 felony counts were dismissed, successfully preserving his clean record and professional eligibility.
The Result ALL 12 COUNTS DISMISSED -
FBI Arrested Client for Involvement in Events on January 6th at U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.
The ChallengeShortly after returning from Washington, D.C. on January 6, 2021, our client was arrested by the FBI and accused of committing several felonies during a protest at the U.S. Capitol. Federal authorities initially believed that our client may have been involved in placing pipe bombs at the offices of the Republican and Democratic National Committees, in part because he had previously received explosives training while serving in the military. If convicted of the charged offenses, our client faced a maximum potential sentence of 28 years in federal prison.
Our StrategyThrough persistent advocacy and detailed review of the evidence, we were able to persuade the government to dismiss all major charges, leaving only a single felony count of obstructing police officers during a civil disorder. As part of accepting responsibility for his conduct on January 6, our client also voluntarily met with investigators working for the U.S. House of Representatives Select Committee tasked with examining the events at the United States Capitol.
The Result CHARGES REDUCED
Legal Disclaimer (SB 37 Compliance): The case results listed above are representative of outcomes achieved by the Law Office of Nic Cocis. Every case is unique, and results depend upon the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Nothing on this page should be construed as a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
