Jesse Berkowitz is a Bay Area criminal defense attorney with over a decade of trial experience protecting individuals facing state and federal charges across Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Mateo, Solano, and Marin Counties.

Before founding Berkowitz Law, Jesse served as a Deputy Public Defender in both Contra Costa and Santa Clara Counties, where he personally tried more than 40 jury trials to verdict—handling everything from complex misdemeanors to serious felony offenses. His extensive courtroom background gives him invaluable insight into how local district attorneys evaluate and prosecute criminal allegations.

Jesse earned his Juris Doctor from UC Law San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings), where he served on the Constitutional Law Quarterly.

Experienced Bay Area Courtroom Advocacy

In private practice, Jesse leverages his intimate knowledge of local courts, prosecutors, and judges across the San Francisco Bay Area. Having obtained case dismissals, negotiated agreements not to file criminal charges, and secured favorable negotiated pre-trial resolutions, Jesse prepares every case as if it is going to trial.

Whether defending clients against white collar crime allegations, domestic violence charges, drug offenses, violent crimes, sex crimes, or vehicle offenses, Jesse delivers aggressive, strategic defense focused on protecting your rights and preserving your future.

Jesse also represents witnesses and crime victims who require guidance in navigating court proceedings and subpoenas, in both state and federal proceedings.

Federal Defense & Community Leadership

  • Criminal Justice Act (CJA) Panel Member: Hand-picked to serve on the CJA Panel for the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, representing clients in complex federal criminal proceedings.
  • Board of Directors, Center for Youth Development through Law: Serves on the Board of Directors for this nonprofit affiliated with the UC Berkeley School of Law, guiding first-generation and marginalized youth toward legal and higher education pathways.
  • California State Bar Admission: Licensed to practice before all California state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

Why Hire Us?

When you are facing criminal charges, the attorney you choose matters. Jesse Berkowitz offers more than just legal knowledge—he brings experience and insight that can have a direct impact on the outcome of your case. Having worked as a Deputy Public Defender, Jesse understands the strategies prosecutors use and how to counter them effectively. His years in Bay Area courtrooms mean he knows the judges, local procedures, and the unique characteristics of each jurisdiction’s criminal justice system.

Clients benefit not only from Jesse’s litigation skills but also from his client-centered approach. He believes that strong defense begins with trust, and he takes the time to listen, explain the process, and answer questions at every stage of the case. His goal is to empower clients to make informed decisions while building the strongest possible defense on their behalf. Whether negotiating for reduced charges, pursuing alternative sentencing, or taking a case to trial, Jesse works tirelessly to achieve the best outcomes for those he represents.

Protect Your Rights & Future—Contact Berkowitz Law Today

Facing criminal allegations can be daunting, but you do not have to fight the system alone. Prosecutors act quickly to build a case against you—getting a well-respected, zealous defense attorney on your side early can make a critical difference in the outcome of your charges.

Contact Jesse Berkowitz today at 510-947-0300 or complete our online form to schedule a confidential, zero-obligation consultation.