About Us
Defending Your Rights with Knowledge and Experience for over 40 years
Providing Exceptional Legal Representation
ABOUT MICHAEL J. SCOTT ATTORNEY AT LAW
Welcome to our About Us page, where we’ll tell you a little bit about our law firm, our experience and training, and how we can be the best choice of an attorney to represent you.
Our law firm has been providing criminal defense representation in California for over 40 years. We have handled a wide range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felony offenses. Our firm is dedicated to providing personalized attention and zealous representation to every client, no matter the nature of their case.
Experience and Training
We have extensive experience handling cases involving forensic evidence such as D.N.A., fingerprints, ballistics, blood spatter, and tool marks. Additionally, we have experience representing clients with mental disorders in
We have extensive experience handling cases involving forensic evidence such as D.N.A., fingerprints, ballistics, blood spatter, and tool marks. Additionally, we have experience representing clients with mental disorders in seeking diversion under P.C. 1001.20 and P.C. 1001.36. Our experience and training uniquely qualify us for complex criminal cases.
seeking diversion under P.C. 1001.20 and P.C. 1001.36. Our experience and training uniquely qualify us for complex criminal cases.
Jury Trials of Note
We have represented clients in several high-profile jury trials in California. In one of our most notable cases, we served as prosecutor in a capital murder jury trial in Santa Maria in 1984. Our firm has also served as court-appointed counsel in multiple capital murder jury trials, including the U-Haul murder case in 2015, which lasted six months. In each of these trials, we provided vigorous representation to our clients and achieved favorable outcomes.
Court Committees
Im a regular attendee of periodic Bench/Bar meetings in North County and Criminal Justice Coordinating Committees meetings (CJ.C.C.). I am also a member of the Bench/Bar committees that formulated rules for zoom evidentiary hearings during COVID. Our firm’s involvement in these committees underscores our commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest legal developments and collaborating with judges and other legal professionals.
Education
Michael Scott earned a Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University from 1966 to 1970 and a Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law from 1972 to 1975. He was admitted to the California Bar in 1976.
Compassionate Criminal Defense
At our law firm, we understand that facing criminal charges can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. That’s why we strive to provide our clients with compassionate and supportive representation. We believe in building strong relationships with our clients and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for each case.
We are confident that our experience, training, and dedication make us the best choice of an attorney to represent you in your criminal case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can assist you.
MAIN OFFICE
201 S Miller St, Suite 106Santa Maria, CA 93454
TELEPHONE
(805) 925-2717
WORKING HOURS
Mon - Thu: 8AM - 12PM 1PM - 5PM Fri: 8AM - 12PM 1PM - 3PM Sat - Sun: Closed
“Building a Strong Foundation for Effective Advocacy Since 1976”
Defense attorney Michael Scott is representing Ramon David Maldonado in the U-Haul murder trial. He delivered his closing argument Wednesday. Source: Santa Maria Times
Jury Trials of Note: Defending High Profile Cases in Santa Maria and Beyond
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Murder trial Mr. Scott represented Mr. V. Not guilty verdict
Felony jury trial alleging physical abuse of several juveniles in her care. Mr. Scott represented Ms. S. Not guilty verdicts.
Young immigrant mother accused of attempting to murder her infant child. Mr. Scott represented Ms. O. Not guilty of attempted murder.
Mr. Scott defended a man accused of domestic violence and physical abuse. Two separate jury trials were held. Mr. J. was found not guilty in each trial.
Gang murder trial referred to as “U-Haul” murder case. Mr. M. was found guilty of murder with special circumstances.
First-degree murder trial with special circumstances. Mr. Scott, as a Deputy District Attorney, prosecuted the case. Mr. L. was found guilty of first-degree murder and special circumstances found true.
Civil jury trial where local winery sued its cork provider for substandard corks Mr. Scott represented Cottonwood. The jury returned a verdict or for Cottonwood in the amount of $750,000.
Mr. Scott has completed over 150 criminal jury trials including murder, drug sales, robbery, rape, domestic violence, theft and dui’s. While the vast majority of criminal cases resolve without a trial it is important in negotiations that the other prosecution be aware the clients represented by Mr. Scott have experienced and talented trial counsel representing their interest should trial be necessary.
