James S. Thomson - Berkeley, CA
James S. Thomson is a preeminent federal and state criminal defense attorney based in Berkeley, CA. With over 45 years of experience, he is a recipient of the CACJ Lifetime Achievement Award, specializing in capital defense, complex RICO trials, and appeals.
Elite Federal Criminal Defense and Capital Litigation in Berkeley
When you are facing federal charges or complex criminal prosecutions, your liberty and future depend on the quality of your legal representation. James S. Thomson, Attorney and Counselor at Law, provides elite, highly sophisticated, and aggressive defense representation for individuals facing serious state and federal charges. Admitted to the California State Bar in 1978, James S. Thomson has spent over four decades establishing himself as one of the nation's preeminent criminal defense advocates. Based in Berkeley, our firm is dedicated to defending clients in some of the most challenging legal arenas, including federal RICO trials, high-stakes white-collar prosecutions, and capital cases. If you urgently need a criminal defense lawyer with the experience, courage, and intellectual caliber to handle your case, James S. Thomson is ready to stand between you and the power of the government.
Comprehensive Federal Criminal Defense and RICO Advocacy
Federal criminal cases are vastly different from state court proceedings, involving intensive investigations by federal agencies, complex sentencing guidelines, and immense resources. Our highly specialized team of Criminal Defense Lawyers understands the unique strategies required to defeat federal charges. We have extensive experience defending against complex charges, including conspiracy, Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) violations, wire fraud, and drug trafficking offenses. If you are searching to find a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to dissect federal evidence, challenge illegal wiretaps, and present a formidable defense in federal court, our firm has the proven capability to fight for you at every stage.
Nationally Recognized Capital Defense Expertise
Defending individuals in capital cases-where the death penalty is on the table-requires an extraordinary level of dedication and technical legal skill. James S. Thomson is a nationally recognized expert in capital defense and has spent decades fighting to protect the lives of clients in high-profile death penalty cases across the country. In recognition of his legendary contributions to capital defense and the legal profession, he was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ). When you hire a criminal defense lawyer from our firm, you are securing an advocate whose trial strategies, legal briefs, and passion have saved lives and set vital legal precedents.
Complex Appellate and Post-Conviction Advocacy
In addition to trial representation, we provide exceptional representation in state and federal appellate courts and post-conviction proceedings. Our seasoned Violent Crime Defense Lawyers analyze trial transcripts to identify critical constitutional errors, evidentiary misrulings, and ineffective assistance of counsel. We draft meticulous, legally persuasive appellate briefs and state and federal petitions for writs of habeas corpus. We are committed to ensuring that every client receives a fair trial and that their constitutional rights are aggressively defended, even long after a verdict has been rendered.
Why Choose Attorney James S. Thomson"
We believe that every individual accused of a crime deserves a rigorous, highly prepared, and uncompromising defense. We take a highly selective approach to our caseload, allowing us to dedicate substantial intellectual and investigative resources to every single client we represent. Our office in Berkeley provides a private, supportive environment where we work collaboratively to build the strongest possible defense. Let us help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
- Distinguished Reputation: Recipient of the CACJ Lifetime Achievement Award and rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell.
- Over 45 Years of Experience: Unparalleled depth in federal and state criminal courts since 1978.
- Elite Capital Defense: Leading expert in capital cases, RICO, and complex conspiracy prosecutions.
- Personalized Representation: Dedicated, high-level attention and direct communication with a premier trial attorney.
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the arts-and-industrial district of West Berkeley, situated just off Fourth Street, a short distance from the waterfront.
Building Location
This is a single-story commercial office building built in 1985. The property features a clean professional design and is situated near the unique Takara Sake Museum.
Parking Details
Visitors can utilize the adjacent on-site surface parking lot or find convenient, unmetered street parking along Addison Street.
Public Transit
Served by Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District Route 51B (University - College); nearest stop is at University Avenue & 3rd Street.
Accessibility / Suite Access
Enter through the main front entrance of the building. Suite A is situated on the ground floor, offering immediate, step-free access from the lobby.