San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney
A Safe Harbor
In a Time of Crisis
Over 30 years defending clients against the most serious criminal charges. Sex crimes. Federal offenses. Life-altering accusations.
The Law Office of John D. Forsyth
Confidential consultations available 24/7
30+
Years Experience
90%
Focus on Sex Crimes
1000+
Cases Handled
100%
Commitment
Your Attorney
John D. Forsyth
A San Francisco native with deep roots in the community. Education entirely local: St. Brendan Elementary, Saint Ignatius College Preparatory, UC Berkeley, and University of California San Francisco College of the Law.
As a tribally enrolled member of the Round Valley Indian Tribes, John developed his passion for defending the rights of those without a voice during summers spent working for tribal attorneys.
After graduation, John spent two years with the Alameda County District Attorney's Office. Since then, he has dedicated himself to defending those accused by state and federal agencies. In the last 30+ years, nearly 90% of his work has involved accusations of sexual misconduct and serious violent felonies.
- Stanford Law School Trial Advocacy Faculty since 2001
- UC Berkeley Graduate
- University of California San Francisco College of the Law
- Prosecutorial Experience at the Alameda County District Attorney's Office
- Round Valley Indian Tribes
The Defense Approach
Leaving No Stone Unturned
- 1Ascertain all available defenses and develop a winning strategy
- 2Assemble a team of expert professionals including investigators and forensic psychologists
- 3Prepare every case for jury trial to present the strongest possible posture
- 4Let the opposition know you're ready to fight for your rights
Areas of Expertise
Practice Areas
Comprehensive criminal defense representation for the most serious charges. Every case receives personalized attention and aggressive advocacy.
Sex Crime Defense
Strategic defense against the most serious accusations. Protecting your rights, reputation, and future.
DUI & Vehicular Homicide
Comprehensive DUI defense to protect your driving privileges and minimize consequences.
Domestic Violence
Thoughtful, aggressive defense to protect your freedom, family, and career.
Three Strikes Cases
Fighting to reduce or dismiss strikes that could result in life imprisonment.
Federal Criminal Defense
Experienced representation against federal charges including weapons and drug offenses.
Homicide & Kidnapping
Serious felony defense requiring the most experienced and dedicated representation.
Proven Results
Recent Case Results
A track record of success defending clients against the most serious criminal charges in California courts.
Child Molestation
Butte County Superior Court
NOT GUILTY
Client acquitted after jury deliberated just 80 minutes. Defense exposed false accusations.
Child Pornography
U.S. District Court
60 MONTHS
vs 108-135 Guidelines
Federal sentence reduced by nearly half through comprehensive defense strategy.
Child Molestation
11 Counts
Alameda County Superior Court
DISMISSED
All sex crime charges dismissed after aggressive preliminary hearing strategy.
Your Defense Matters
Why Choose John D. Forsyth?
30+ Years Experience
Decades of courtroom experience defending clients against the most serious criminal charges.
Specialized Focus
90% of practice dedicated to sex crimes and serious felony defense.
Stanford Faculty
Teaching trial advocacy to the next generation of lawyers since 2001.
Proven Results
Track record of dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges for clients.
“John Forsyth's expertise and dedication were evident from our first meeting. His thorough preparation and courtroom presence made all the difference in my case.”
Former Client
Take Action Now
Your Future Is Worth
Fighting For
When you're facing criminal charges, you need an attorney who will fight for you. Contact the Law Office of John D. Forsyth today for a free, confidential consultation.
(415) 812-3257Available 24/7 for urgent matters
Consultation Fee Policy
- •There is no charge for the first consultation if conducted at the office.
- •Any consultation conducted off-site or at a detention facility requires a fee paid up front.
- •If the client decides to retain the office, 100% of the consultation fee will be applied to the initial retainer for services.