Carin Leanne Johnson, Appellate Attorney in Walnut Creek, California

Carin concentrates on appellate, criminal defense, and juvenile. Each area below outlines the kind of case Carin handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

  View other Appellate attorneys

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• Juvenile

  View other Juvenile attorneys

Carin's primary office is at 801 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Ste. 230, Walnut Creek, CA, 94596. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new appellate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Carin usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Carin discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in appellate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Carin for a appellate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Carin walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Carin offer a free consultation?

  Carin charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Carin's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Carin's current terms during booking.

• How long do appellate cases in California typically take?

  Simple appellate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Carin gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Carin take my case if I'm outside Walnut Creek?

  Carin is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Carin will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Carin?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Carin will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Carin accepting new appellate clients right now?

  Carin's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.