Bay Area Criminal Defense Attorney
Former Public Defender Serving Oakland & Surrounding Communities
If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation, what you do next matters.
Brian Amaya brings nearly a decade of courtroom experience- and a deep understanding of how the system actually works- to every case..
Se habla español.
The consequences are real. Your defense should be too.
A Defense Attorney Who Knows the System
Brian Amaya is a former Alameda County Public Defender who has handled hundreds of cases- from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
He has represented clients across the Bay Area, including Oakland, Berkeley, and surrounding communities throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties- negotiating with prosecutors and challenging weak evidence at every stage.
Now in private practice, he brings that same experience with a more focused, personal approach.
A More Complete Approach to Defense
Brian takes a holistic approach to criminal defense- looking beyond the charges to understand the full picture of what someone is going through.
Many cases involve more than just a legal issue. They can be connected to stress, mental health challenges, substance use, or difficult life circumstances.
With experience as a Public Defender, Brian works to bring these factors into the conversation- advocating not just for your case, but for outcomes that actually support your future.
This approach can make a meaningful difference in how your case is handled, negotiated, and resolved.
This Work Is Personal
Brian was born and raised in Central Los Angeles by a single mother who came to this country as a refugee from El Salvador.
He grew up in a community where the justice system was not abstract- it was part of everyday life.
That experience shaped how he approaches this work today.
He represents clients across the Bay Area with clarity, respect, and a deep understanding of what’s at stake- particularly for those navigating the system in Oakland and surrounding communities.
Experience That Moves Cases Forward
• Former Alameda County Public Defender (nearly a decade)
• Handled misdemeanor and felony cases, including serious charges
• Former Supervising Attorney, Bay Area Legal Aid
• Experience in juvenile defense and Title IX cases
• President, East Bay La Raza Lawyers Association
• 2024 Community Service Award recipient
• Native Spanish speaker
Criminal Defense Across the Bay Area
Brian defends clients facing criminal charges across the Bay Area, including Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, Walnut Creek, and surrounding communities throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.
From misdemeanors to serious felony charges, the right strategy can make a real difference in how your case moves forward.
Felony Defense
High-stakes charges require
focused, strategic defense
DUI Defense
Protecting your license, record,
and future
Violent Crimes
Experienced representation
when the stakes are highest
Misdemeanor Defense
Lower-level charges with real
and lasting consequences
Drug Charges
Challenging evidence and
building strong defenses
Juvenile Defense
Advocating for young people
in the justice system
Why Experience as a Public Defender Matters
Before entering private practice, Brian spent nearly a decade as a Public Defender in Alameda County.
He has handled hundreds of cases from the defense side, giving him a clear understanding of how prosecutors build cases- and where those cases can be challenged.
That experience allows him to move quickly, think strategically, and advocate in ways that can make a real difference in the outcome of your case.
It also informs a more holistic approach- recognizing the real-life factors that often play a role and using them to strengthen your defense.
Trusted by Clients Across the Bay Area
Real experiences from people we’ve represented
★★★★★
Brian Amaya is beyond exceptional! I would highly recommend him to anyone that should come across the need for a lawyer. Very professional, knowledgeable and above all, caring. Although we hope to never need services again, but if we do, we would not hesitate to call upon Brian. Thank you for all you do
-Kanani V.
★★★★★
We are beyond grateful that we chose Brian Amaya to represent my fiancée’s son. From the very beginning, he was incredibly personable and immediately put our family at ease during what was a very scary time for us. He took the time to walk us through the entire process step by step, making sure we understood what to expect and answering every question with patience and honesty.
-Starra R.
★★★★★
Working with Brian for the last year and a half has been amazing and I’m so thankful for him. I came in a mess and stressed out, but he lift my spirit and confidence. There is no one better to work with to make you feel safe and protected. Thank you for everything, Brian! Truly a joy having crossed paths with you.
-Crystal N.