“If there is one characteristic that defines me, it is my belief in human dignity, my belief that my client's life is just as important now as it was on the day they were born.” - Michael Guisti

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Michael L. Guisti

Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Every day since the founding of his firm in 1999, Attorney Michael L. Guisti has grown in both talent and prestige. He is recognized by his peers and past clients alike for the hard-hitting defense he delivers, regardless of the scope of the case at hand. Attorney Guisti doesn't just represent his clients, he fights for them with a singular goal: to overturn their charges and protect their future.

With years of criminal defense experience, Attorney Guisti is well-versed in a vast number of criminal cases. He has successfully handled misdemeanors and felonies in both state and federal court. A skilled litigator, Attorney Guisti uses his brilliant academic background to approach each case logically and with intention. He is focused on solving problems the right way the first time.

Why Choose Attorney Michael Guisti?

Even in the midst of the most complex cases, Attorney Guisti is able to think objectively on behalf of his clients. Prosecutors are no match for his tough presence in the courtroom and have come to understand that Attorney Guisti doesn't waste time. He moves swiftly on each case, knowing that time is of the essence when his client's future is on the line. Attorney Michael Guisti

People know that they can trust Attorney Guisti. He takes the time to understand where his clients are coming from and refuses to leave anyone without a fair chance at the trial they deserve. He frequently tells his clients, "You should not give up on yourself because we will not give up on you. And we will stand right by your side until we get you off your trouble. Let's work it out."

Regularly sought out by the news media for his opinion and expertise on publicized cases, there is no question that Attorney Guisti is knowledgeable in all aspects of criminal law. If you are facing charges, contact Law Office of Michael L. Guisti for your free consultation today. You deserve aggressive advocacy from our Orange County criminal defense attorney.

Michael Guisti In the News

Michael Guisti Comments on Charges Being Dropped in Michelle Hadley Craigslist Case


Articles on Attorney Michael Guisti's Client Michelle Hadley in the Craigslist "Rape Fantasy" Case

  • Wife of a U.S. Marshal Accused of Framing his Ex-Girlfriend in Craigslist 'Rape Fantasy' Plot
  • Ontario Woman Jailed in 'Rape Fantasy' Craigslist Case Framed, OC DA says
  • Wife Thought to be Victim in 'rape fantasy' Craigslist Case Now Charged with Framing Husband's Ex-girlfriend
  • Michelle Hadley: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

  • Education

    J.D., Western State University College of Law, 1998
    Honors: Graduated with Juris Doctor Degree the highest honor of Magna Cum Laud. He was Class Salutatorian and Commencement speaker as a best Criminal Law student in law school. He also received the American Jurisprudence Award in Criminal Law.

    Jurisdictions Admitted to Practice

    • State Bar of California, 1999
    • U.S. Federal District Court, District of California, 1999

    Professional & Bar Association Memberships

    • Member of State Bar of California
    • Member of American Association for Justice (Formerly the Association of Trial Lawyers of America: ATLA)
    • Member of California Appellate Defense Counsel
    • Member of California Public Defenders Association
    • Member of Mensa USA
    • Member of numerous Chamber of Commerce
    • Member of Robert A. Banyard Inn of Court
    • Member of Orange County Bar Association
    • Member of American Bar Association
    • Member of Italian Bar Association

    Honors/Certificates

    • Received the Marjorie Day Award in 2004 from the Robert A. Banyard Inn of Court, which recognized him as the Associate Member who most represents the goals and ideals of the Inn
    • Received the American Jurisprudence Award in Criminal Law
    • National Trial Lawyers: Top 100
    • Membership into the "Nation's Top Attorneys" through the National Association of Distinguished Counsel
    • Rated "Top Attorney" by Coast Magazine - October 2015 Issue

    Whether you're facing a felony or a misdemeanor, don't risk a conviction. Act quickly to redeem your reputation and protect your record by consulting with our Orange County criminal defense lawyer. Call today to schedule your free consultation.

    (714) 530-9690

    Payment options available:

    Payment options available:

    Client Reviews

    “It was strongly recommended that I call federal defense attorney Michael L. Guisti. He had several investigators look at records and such, and my federal case was dismissed. Michael Guisti does what few attorneys can do, beat the federal government, and that is why if you’re in trouble with the government you need to call Michael Guisti right away!”

    - G.O. on

    Rating:5/5

    “I had everything to lose, my future, my education. Basically I did something that got me a misdemeanor, and the judge wanted to give a guilty plea. But Michael Guisti would not back down. Instead he fought for me, and now my record is clean.”

    - Client on

    Rating:5/5

    “Back in 2003 I was facing attempted murder. My family hired Michael Guisti to represent me. He is a very good attorney. He always answered my calls, addressed my questions and concerns, and kept me updated about my case. Thank you Michael Guisti for winning my case. I highly recommend anyone facing a criminal charge to see Michael Guisti.”

    - J.D. on

    Rating:5/5

    Case Results

    sex crimes

    Case Dropped

    Young man charged and arrested for sexual battery.

    assault

    Case Dropped

    Man charged with assault with a deadly weapon for hitting someone in the face with a heavy metal dust pan.

    drug crimes

    Served Less Than 30 Days in Jail

    Young man charged with selling 1000 tabs of ecstasy to undercover officer.

    Attempted Murder

    Reduced to Assault With Deadly Weapon

    Young man knocks the eye out his victim with a metal pipe. Charged with attempted murder and aggravated mayhem. Both cases carried life sentences.

    Assault & Battery

    Serves 80 Days on Work Furlough

    Woman arrested and charged with assault with a deadly weapon using scissors on a co-worker.

    Vehicular Assault

    Serves 80 Days on Work Furlough

    Man charged with three felony counts of vehicular assault with a deadly weapon.

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    OC Criminal Defense Attorney Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

    Copyright © 2024 All Rights Reserved. Law Office of Michael L. Guisti. Serving clients throughout Orange County, including: Irvine, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Westminster, and Costa Mesa. Representing clients in OC courts, including: Central Justice Center, Harbor Justice Center - Newport Beach Facility, North Justice Center, & West Justice Center.

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