How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a criminal defense case?

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

Does Matthew offer a free consultation?

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

How long do criminal defense cases in California typically take?

Simple criminal defense 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. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Los Angeles?

Matthew 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 — Matthew 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 Matthew?

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. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Matthew accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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

Unclaimed · Is this you?

Matthew Cohen, Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, California

Over 28 years of legal practice · focused on Criminal Defense, Drug Crimes, and DUI/DWI · 4.9/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

PartneratPerlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers

Los Angeles, CA

Practicing criminal defense in Los Angeles since 1998.

28+: Years practicing
4.9 ★: 2 client reviews
1: Bar admission

Practices in

Criminal Defense Drug Crimes DUI/DWI DV Defense DV Protection General +2 more →

Are you Matthew Cohen?

This profile was built from public bar records and is still unclaimed. Claim it free to control your photo, bio, and fees — and get client inquiries sent straight to you.

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Quick answer

Matthew Cohen is a partner based in Los Angeles, CA. The practice focuses on Criminal Defense, Drug Crimes, and DUI/DWI. Matthew has over 28 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers. Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Based in: Los Angeles, CA
Experience: over 28 years
Known for: Criminal Defense · Drug Crimes · DUI/DWI

Handles Criminal Defense, Drug Crimes, and DUI/DWI matters from Los Angeles, CA.
Over 28 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with Peer Reviewed.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Matthew Cohen

Matthew concentrates on criminal defense, drug crimes, dui/dwi, dv defense, and dv protection. Each area below outlines the kind of case Matthew handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Criminal Defense cases in Los Angeles, California

Matthew takes criminal defense matters in Los Angeles, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Drug Crimes cases in Los Angeles, California

Matthew takes drug crimes matters in Los Angeles, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

DUI/DWI cases in Los Angeles, California

Matthew takes dui/dwi matters in Los Angeles, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

DV Defense cases in Los Angeles, California

Matthew takes dv defense matters in Los Angeles, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

DV Protection cases in Los Angeles, California

Matthew takes dv protection matters in Los Angeles, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Matthew Cohen — Over 28 years of California criminal defense experience

Matthew Cohen is a leading criminal defense attorney based in Los Angeles, renowned for his expertise in DUI and criminal defense cases. Offering a risk-free consultation to anyone facing criminal charges, Mr. Cohen assures clients of his commitment to safeguarding their rights. He is dedicated to supporting defendants through complex legal landscapes, striving for favorable outcomes with over a decade of courtroom experience across Southern California. A graduate of Binghamton University in New York and holding a law degree from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, Mr. Cohen brings a strong academic foundation to his practice. Initially specializing in intellectual property law, he pivoted towards criminal defense after recognizing its urgent need, driven by a desire to dismantle the barriers facing defendants.

Matthew Cohen is recognized for his fair, compassionate, and tenacious advocacy, having represented thousands in both misdemeanor and felony cases. He emphasizes finding creative solutions for his clients, seeking alternatives to incarceration whenever feasible. With in-depth knowledge and established relationships with prosecutors and judges, Mr. Cohen provides strategic, dedicated representation, ensuring each client's case is efficiently settled, with their rights and future at the forefront.

Working with Matthew on a criminal defense matter

Clients Matthew works with

Matthew reviews new inquiries case-by-case for criminal defense, drug crimes, and dui/dwi matters in Los Angeles and the surrounding California area.

Credentials

Matthew Cohen's legal education and bar admissions

Pepperdine University School of Law
J.D. · 1998
State University of New York at Binghamton
B.S.M.E. · 1995

Jurisdictions

Matthew's state bar admissions

California
1998 · ACTIVE

Matthew studied at J.D. in Pepperdine University School of Law and B.S.M.E. in State University of New York at Binghamton.

Law school and academic background

Matthew completed J.D. in Pepperdine University School of Law and B.S.M.E. in State University of New York at Binghamton. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Matthew runs in California is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Matthew Cohen

Matthew has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

Peer Reviewed

Legal awards and honors

Peer Reviewed.

Locations

Matthew Cohen's office in Los Angeles

Matthew's primary office is at 355 S Grand Avenue, Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA, 90071. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers

355 S Grand Avenue, Suite 2450

Los Angeles, CA 90071

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Matthew Cohen — 4.9/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Matthew. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles.

4.9

2 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Matthew Cohen claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Matthew Cohen — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Matthew charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Matthew will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, California

A short list to run through before you commit: How many criminal defense matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Matthew

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

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every criminal defense matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Matthew confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Matthew's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many criminal defense practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Matthew Cohen

How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a criminal defense case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Matthew offer a free consultation?
Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.
How long do criminal defense cases in California typically take?
Simple criminal defense 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. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Los Angeles?
Matthew 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 — Matthew 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 Matthew?
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. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Matthew accepting new criminal defense clients right now?
Matthew's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by California residents in the last few months, answered by criminal defense attorneys like Matthew Cohen. Each link opens the full answer thread.

What should I do if I’m arrested for assault in California?
I was arrested in Los Angeles, CA, for assault during an altercation at a bar last weekend. I didn’t start the fight, and there are witnesses who can back me up. I'm really anxious
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · California
How can I appeal a conviction for a DUI in Michigan?
I was convicted of a DUI in Detroit, MI, last year and am unhappy with the outcome. I feel like my attorney didn’t represent me well, and I’d like to know if there’s a way to appea
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Michigan
What can I do if I’m wrongfully accused of robbery in Pennsylvania?
I was wrongly accused of robbery in Philadelphia, PA, after an incident at a store where I was simply shopping. The security footage proves my innocence, but the police arrested me
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Pennsylvania
What should I know about plea deals for misdemeanor charges in Hawaii?
I received a misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct in Honolulu, HI, and the court suggested a plea deal. I’m unsure if I should accept it or fight the charge. What should I con
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Hawaii
What are the penalties for a DUI in Colorado after a second offense?
I received my second DUI in Denver, CO, last month, and I'm worried about facing harsher penalties this time around. My first offense resulted in a fine and community service, but
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Colorado
What are the legal consequences of underage drinking in Massachusetts?
I’m a college student in Boston, MA, and I was caught with alcohol at a party. I’m concerned about the legal repercussions this may have on my record and my future job opportunitie
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Massachusetts

Areas served

Criminal Defense attorneys serving Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in California

Matthew handles criminal defense matters throughout California. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified criminal defense attorneys in that community.

More counsel

If Matthew's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.

Matthew Cohen, Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, California

Quick answer

Practice areas handled by Matthew Cohen

Criminal Defense cases in Los Angeles, California