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Ron Cordova - Irvine, CA

16520 Bake ParkwaySuite 280 Irvine, CA 92618

Updated: 02/18/2024

Irvine Criminal Defense Lawyer

Overview

Ron Cordova is an experienced and well-respected criminal defense attorney. He has successfully represented clients in a wide array of state and federal criminal matters, including homicides and other violent offenses such as assault, battery, robbery, drug charges, theft and white collar offenses, alcohol-related charges and juvenile cases. Please see the practice areas page of this website for further information on Mr. Cordova's areas of expertise.

Ron Cordova represents clients in Orange County as well as statewide and nationally, devoting personal attention to each client's case. He combines skill, compassion and aggressive representation to provide the highest level of legal service. With more than 40 years of criminal law and jury trial experience, Ron Cordova has a well-deserved reputation for obtaining outstanding results in even the most difficult and challenging cases. He has tried more than 150 cases to verdict and maintains a truly national practice, having represented clients in 34 states and the District of Columbia as well as several foreign countries. Despite such prominence, Ron remains accessible to his clients and does not pass their cases off to associates.

Ron Cordova is a distinguished criminal defense lawyer. He has been named a "Southern California SuperLawyer" fifteen times since 2007 and has received the highest possible rating of "AV" from Martindale Hubbell, the national directory of attorneys, confirming his preeminent legal ability and the highest ethical standards.

Ron Cordova has been recognized by Newsweek Magazine in 2011, 2012 and 2013 as one of the best criminal defense attorneys nationwide. He has also been recognized as one of the top five criminal defense lawyers in Orange County by OC Metro Magazine every year since 2009. Ron is also listed in Who's Who in America and Who's Who in American Law.

Ron Cordova is a former Orange County deputy district attorney and a former member of the California Legislature. Additionally, he has served as a professor of criminal law in California and internationally. Ron has taught courses at the University of California, Irvine, the Institute of Comparative Law at the University of Szeged, Hungary, the University of Debrecen, Hungary, the University of Pecs, Hungary, the University of Maribor, Slovenia, Jan Masaryk University in Brno in the Czech Republic and Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland.

Ron Cordova is admitted to practice before all state and federal courts in California as well as federal courts in Arizona, Colorado, Michigan and Texas. He has also been admitted pro hac vice in numerous jurisdictions throughout the United States.

About Ron Cordova

Practice Areas

  • Criminal Defense
  • Criminal Law - State and Federal
  • DUI / DWI

Litigation

  • 100%

Year Joined Firm

  • 1979

Languages

  • Spanish
  • Swedish
  • German

Qualifications

Bar Admissions

  • California, 1972
  • U.S. District Court District of Arizona
  • U.S. District Court District of Colorado
  • U.S. District Court Central District of California
  • U.S. District Court Eastern District of California
  • U.S. District Court Northern District of California
  • U.S. District Court Southern District of California
  • U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan
  • U.S. District Court Western District of Texas

Other Affiliations

  • California Legislature (Vice-Chairman, Committee on Judiciary)
  • California Legislature (Member, Committee on Revenue and Taxation)
  • California Legislature (Member, Committee on Elections and Reapportionment)
  • California Legislature (Member, Select Committee on Corrections)
  • California Legislature (Member, Joint Committee on Revision of the Penal Code)
  • State Bar of California (Member)
  • Orange County Bar Association (Member)
  • Newport-Harbor Bar Association (Member)

Education

  • University of Southern California Law Center, Los Angeles, California, 1972
    J.D.
    Honors: American Jurisprudence Award in International Law
  • Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, 1967
    A.B.
    Honors: With Distinction
    Major: International Relations

Past Positions

  • Orange County Deputy District Attorney, 1973 - 1976
  • Member of the California Legislature, 74th Assembly District, 1976 - 1978

Pro Bono Activities

  • Co-counsel in the jury trial of State of Tennessee v Byron Looper http://www.https://crimelibrary.org/notorious_murders/classics/byron_looper/14.html

Classes and Seminars

  • Adjunct Professor of Criminal Law, University of California, Irvine , September 1, 1981 - June 1, 1983

Achievements

Other Sources of Feedback About Ron Cordova

Included on the 2025 Southern California Super Lawyers list


Past Lists

  • 2024 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2023 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2022 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2021 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2020 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2019 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2018 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2017 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2016 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2015 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2014 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2011 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2010 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2009 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2008 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2007 Southern California Super Lawyers list

View the profile for Ron Cordova on Super Lawyers

Honors

  • Named a "Southern California Super Lawyer", 2007 - 2011, 2014 - 2023
  • "AV" rated by Martindale Hubbell, 1998 - 2020
  • Time Magazine Leading Southern California Attorneys, 2012 - 2013
  • Newsweek Magazine Top Attorneys Nationwide, 2011 - 2013
  • OC Metro Magazine Top Five Criminal Defense Attorneys in Orange County, 2009 - 2016
  • Outstanding Young Men of America, 1977-1978

Photo

Office Information

Address

16520 Bake ParkwaySuite 280 Irvine, CA 92618

Fax

  • 949-748-3888

Accepts Credit Cards

Yes

Office Hours

9am to 6pm Monday to Friday; Saturday and Sunday by appointment

Publication

Articles

  • Special Lecture in Comparative Law at Nicolaus Copernicus University, Torun, Poland: "Miranda in the post-9/11 Context" April 2010
  • Analysis of California Supreme Court decision extending Boykin-Tahl waivers to prior convictions, "In re Yurko: Portent or Anomaly?" Orange County Bar Journal

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By Anonymous on Dec. 15, 2016
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron helped me by getting me three years, instead of ten, he made no false promises always told me what was going, I had another lawyer who had got me out of county jail in Los Angeles but left it open for the feds to come after me years later, I was released in 2006 I thought everything was over. The feds told me in 2008 they were charging me with what the first lawyer left open, I freaked out and had a melt down, My friend recommended Ron, I had looked at photos of underaged girls, slept with a 16-year old, and Ron was never judgemental, He took my calls when I was inside, he didn't have to, And now I face the challenge of getting my family back because things fell apart when I was gone, He has gone out of his way to help, Most lawyers stop once the case is over but Ron has answered questions when I have had issues with my probations, Ron is not only great lawyer but also a good man.

By Anonymous on Oct. 06, 2016
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron Cordova, is one the finest legal experts in the Country. His knowledge and expertise in the criminal justice system is unfathomable.

By Anonymous on Aug. 30, 2014
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron understood my case and followed through on every promise. He was able to effectively negotiate with the district attorney which resulted in a favorable and reasonable outcome. This save me much personal time and stress. I would recommend Ron to anyone who is in need of representation for misdemeanor crimes.

By Anonymous on Aug. 08, 2014
Verified Client
Recommendation

I don’t how to express my highest regard and deepest appreciation for everything he did for me in a few words. I met Mr. Cordova about two years ago, at the time I was in a lot of trouble with the law, and really needed professional help. I met with quite a few lawyers, and I eventually picked Mr. Cordova, not only because of my first impression of him being extremely knowledgeable about the criminal law and his eloquent nature, it is also because I was told that he is a good man. I told him that I made a mistake, and I needed help to get me the best results. Very quickly, he was able to understand the circumstances, the seriousness of the situation, and showed me a clear path. He explained to me his strategy, told me what to expect, and mostly importantly, he did that in a language I can understand. Mr. Cordova”s background in linguistics was a great advantage in the communication with the prosecuting attorney. He is convincing and authoritative. Looking back, although there were uncertainties along the way, and I was in a lot of stress and fear, he really did bring stability and hope, and tool control. Mr. Cordova was extremely patient with me, most time I would ask him the same questions twice or three times mainly because of fear and anxiety, and he always had answers for me. He always responded to my calls, I don’t think there was even once he didn’t respond; he even gave me heads-up when he went to lecture in Europe. In the end, I really got the best result I could expect, Home Confinement and Probation. It is the minimum sentencing and a departure by the Judge due to the severity of the case. I have two very young children and older parents to take care of; he helped to keep our family together. We truly appreciate Mr. Cordova’s support and respect his professionalism. We strongly recommend Mr. Cordova not just for him capability but simply because he cares!

By Anonymous on Apr. 25, 2014
Verified Client
Recommendation

I made the unfortunate mistake of not hiring Ron Cordova when I first had a consultation with him. Instead, I committed a $2500 mistake of retaining another lawyer (who's name I won't mention) based on a recommendation from a 3rd party. Less than a month into my case, I realized that I had to cut my losses and meet with Mr. Cordova once again. This, I would have to say was the smartest thing I did. My original attorney seemed confused and wouldn't listen to the facts of the case, but instead, insisted on being guided by his own presumption of the charges; so much so that we were discussing plea bargains on day 2. On the flip side, Mr. Cordova made sure to understand the facts and used these to our advantage. His persuasion and years of experience were evident throughout my case. Needless to say, Mr. Cordova had my case dismissed and I am very happy with the results. I highly recommend him.

By Anonymous on Apr. 18, 2014
Verified Client
Recommendation

Mr. Cordova was extremely professional and very knowledgeable when it came to handling my case. I was referred to him by another attorney who I have know for over a decade and put a great deal of trust in. My case was very specific in nature and Mr. Cordova handled it with the upmost care and urgency. I was profoundly amazed with the out come of the case of which could have been a career ending violation. I was very impressed with his thoroughness and attention to detail while working my case. I highly recommend Mr. Cordova for any legal matters you might run into. Especially when dealing with the department of Fish and Wildlife. five star service!!!

By Anonymous on Apr. 18, 2014
Verified Client
Recommendation

I would highly reccommend Mr. Cordova for your legal representation, he is the consummate professional who is very thorough and will truly do his utmost to gain the best desired result for you. He was always easy to get in touch with and would respond promptly to both emails and voicemails.You could not ask for better representation by an attorney. Sincerely, Rick

By Anonymous on Mar. 01, 2014
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron Cordova is there on the spot. He is knowledgeable on a wide range of legal matters. Ron is efficient, effective and reasonably priced. I recommend Ron Cordova to everyone needing legal services.

By Anonymous on Nov. 26, 2013
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron did an excellent job with our case. He took the time and explained options and helped us determine what would be the best for our situation. He came through with the best possible outcome!! I would highly recommend him! He is a great attorney and very personable.

By Anonymous on Nov. 15, 2013
Verified Client
Recommendation

I first learned of Mr. Cordova when he was showcased in OC Metro Magazine as one of Orange County's top five attorneys for 2012. Ironically, I had read Mr. Cordova's profile approximately a year prior to my son's legal incident. The article not only had described him as having extensive legal expertise but more importantly how approachable and compassionate he was. I recall being instantly impressed by his qualifications. When my son was wrongfully accused of a crime in 2013, I immediately remembered the O.C Metro article. I called Ron and left him a message. He called me back promptly and we set an appointment to discuss my son's case. From the moment I started talking to him, I knew that the person sitting across from me was a consummate professional of the highest caliber. Indeed, my expectations were surpassed and I felt extremely lucky to have found such a skilled attorney for my son. Having experience in court cases in the past, I knew that Ron was going to deliver. I was proven right: Ron convinced the D.A in my son's case to dismiss all charges. While this result cannot be guaranteed in every case, an attorney like Ron Cordova can significantly improve the odds of winning your case. Ron carries a liveliness and exuberance that lights smiles across the courtroom. He is charming and extremely intelligent. I highly recommend Ron's services to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney. He is one of a kind.

By Anonymous on Aug. 22, 2013
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron took the responsibility of defending my son in a felony matter. He was upfront about the real possibilities facing my son and clearly explained his approach for the best possible defense and what he felt would be a reasonable outcome. Not only did the matter come to a satisfactory outcome, but the possible time of 3 years ended up being 100 days in county. He did require documentation to strengthen his case which I was happy to provide. In short, I was completely honest with the situation, told him what I could provide as evidence and Ron found the best defense for our situation. He is professional and up front. I couldn't ask for more.

By Anonymous on Aug. 21, 2013
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron Cordova, Attorney-at-Law is a great criminal defense attorney. Ron assisted me with an extremely painful event in my life. There are no words in the English language to express my gratitude for the help he gave me in helping me resolve a legal issue that involved communication from the east coast to the west coast. I chose Ron to represent the case after I read his credentials and testimonials of other clients. Every time I would think of an issue of concern, he would take his time and explain in simple terms what the process would involve. Believe me, it is difficult to navigate the waters of a complex legal system involving different states. I have worked with professionals most of my life and I can truly state Ron's exceptional professionalism, experience, education, and caring helped me from many miles away.

By Anonymous on Jul. 25, 2013
Verified Client
Recommendation

December 2012 I was arrested for DUI. I contacted several attorneys to discuss my case and to make my selection for legal representation. I selected Ron Cordova because he impressed me with his knowledge and experience handling DUI cases. Ron was very upfront and realistic regarding my case and never attempted to build false hopes or unrealistic expectations for the outcome of my case. The fees for his services were clearly explained at our initial meeting and never once deviated from our agreement. Ron was available in a timely manner to address my questions and concerns as they came up. My entire experience with Ron was very positive. I highly recommend Ron Cordova to anyone facing a DUI charge.

By Anonymous on Dec. 17, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

I recommend MR. Ron Cordova 100% MR. Cordova tells you the way it is. if he says he can help you, you can take it to the bank.He dose not give you false hope. he tells you the way it is. MR. Cordova is the one and only attorney i would ever use. When you choose MR. Cordova you get the very best attorney money can buy. MR. Cordova is a MIRACLE WORKER. THANK YOU Dean A Gulla

By Anonymous on Sep. 17, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron Cordova is a superb criminal defense lawyer that was on top of my case from day one. He did exactly what he said he would do. Ron is very accessible and approachable. Every time I would worry or wonder what was going on with my case, he had the answers. He would always be accessible over the phone on the weekends as well. Ron is intelligent, as he knows the nuances of various procedures, laws, and statutes. His team that works for him does an outstanding job as well. His intern helped immensely with the research and recommendations on my case. Aside from Ron's arduous professional work ethic, his personable character is what sets him apart. His humor and personality and ability to connect with people on a personal level help with dealing with the other side--i.e. prosecution. Ron is even doing extra work on my civil case, where he does not even have to. He is basically doing my civil lawyer's work for him. Ron produces results and is honest throughout the entire process. Anyone that wants the best representation for themselves should hire Ron Cordova.

By Anonymous on Sep. 10, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron Cordova assisted me during an extremely difficult point in my life. Nothing can describe the amount of stress and turmoil one deals with when confronted by criminal charges, but Ron never wavered in his belief, not only in my case, but in me personally. He fought mercilessly on my behalf and had the charges against me reduced significantly. I couldn't imagine having to navigate the legal system on my own and am extremely thankful Ron was there to guide the way. I couldn't recommend Ron Cordova highly enough.

By Anonymous on Jul. 02, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

In 2004 I needed an Attorney for a criminal matter, due to the charges my life had changed dramatically overnight. I lost my job, my business, and was in need of someone I could trust, as my life was literally on the line. Shortly after being charged I met with Ron Cordova in person. I will never forget that first conversation with him, I was so scared as to what could happen next and having him take his time in explaining the entire process that I faced from beginning to end made me see that there was light at the end of the tunnel. After hiring Ron Cordova to be my defense attorney, he always answered my phone calls, every single time, even if it was just to say that he would call me back. I can tell you that this is so important for anyone who is facing legal action, criminal or civil. When you have a question or concern, you are a phone call away from speaking with a world class attorney who will always take the time to speak with you. After Ron successfully defended me in the criminal matter, yes I pled guilty, but I pled guilty on the best terms possible, and the fact is, I was guilty. The deal Ron negotiated reduced the time of jail by 87% compared to what the probation office had suggested. During the time I was incarcerated, Ron continued to try and help me by getting me on house arrest, he didn’t charge extra for this, he was simply determined to see this through, he wasn’t done being my attorney until all available options had been exhausted. If you are reading this and you are looking for an attorney, I highly recommend Ron Cordova. Ron is an unconventional attorney, he is willing to try and do things others won’t, possibly because they aren’t even aware of them. Ron is NOT the cookie cutter attorney you will see on billboards or large phone book ads, he is your personal attorney for life.

By Anonymous on Jun. 29, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

Ron Cordova, Attorney-at-Law helped me through a difficult and confusing time. I never had to appear in court, and I was able to make payments while I completed some court ordered classes. Once the classes were completed, my charges were dismissed. I hate to think what would have happened to me had I chosen to represent myself. I highly recommend Ron Cordova. He took the time to explain things to me over the phone and in person and kept in touch with me throughout the 6 month process that I went through with my case.

By Anonymous on May. 28, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

If you ever find yourself in a situation requiring a criminal defense, you need to act quickly and make good decisions regarding representation-- and you need look no further than Ron Cordova. Ron is truly outstanding, and an absolutely excellent choice at a critical time when you can't afford to make a poor decision regarding representation. It is clear to me that he knows the system from years of experience as both a prosecutor and defense counsel. Ron handled my case expeditiously, professionally and with demonstrated personal concern. As a result, my case was resolved in the best manner possible, with all charges eventually dismissed. Ron also helped me after the case, providing advice and documentation to assist me in mitigating any undue negative consequences of having been charged. Ron exceeded my expectations, and I recommend him unconditionally. His exceptional credentials and experience, combined with his determination and caring, make him a uniquely qualified choice.

By Anonymous on Mar. 13, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

Recently we found ourselves involved in a legal matter with a family member that really tested our faith in the criminal justice system. A search brought us to Ron Cordova, and we were grateful for his services. He was able to help us see through the emotion and get right to the heart of the matter. Ron's ability to not only work with his clients but navigate the complex legal world with ease made all of the difference for us. I think that you'll find him a wonderful partner to work with and I can't recommend him highly enough. Ron is a trusted partner and completely reliable.

By Anonymous on Mar. 08, 2012
Verified Client
Recommendation

I have had the pleasure of working with Ron Cordova in a case where we needed competent representation for a family member. Ron's approach to working with his clients is remarkable, his knowledge and experience in working with the Court system really helped to calm our fears and make us feel that everything was under control. He is warm, and has a genuine concern for his clients. Ron provided direct representation in court every step of the way, and helped to turn an unfortunate situation into a positive one. He is a pleasure to work with and always takes our calls, a quality not seen in today's busy climate. I recommend Ron without reservation!

By Anonymous on Dec. 28, 2011
Verified Client
Recommendation

SOMETIMES A BAD THING CAN HAPPEN TO A GOOD PERSON. IF YOU EVER FIND YOURSELF IN A BIND THIS IS ONE PERSON YOU CAN PLACE YOUR TRUST AND HOPES IN. A TRUE PROVEN PROFESIONAL WHO KNOWS THE SYSTEM AND HOW TO WORK WITHIN IT. I DONT THINK YOU CAN FIND BETTER THAN THIS. THE REAL DEAL. NO NONSENSE. YOURE IN GOOD HANDS WITH RON CORDOVA. HES BEEN AROUND THE BLOCK. YOU REALLY GET QUALITY HERE WITH PROPER DIRECTION AND THE BEST RESULTS POSSIBLE. THE MAN SAVED MY BUTT.

By Anonymous on Dec. 22, 2011
Verified Client
Recommendation

I could not say enough positive about Ron and his professional and efficient work. He helped us with family member who had a traffic matter which had gotten out of control due to inattention after the family member moved out of state and negligently lost touch with the matter. Ron efficiently handled the proceeding to a very positive conclusion without requiring a personal appearance by the out of state defendant. More than the results, however, Ron was fair in his billing, low maintenance in his process and exceedingly compassionate with the problem.

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Fax:
949-748-3888
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16520 Bake ParkwaySuite 280 Irvine, CA 92618

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