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Founder & Managing Attorney

Tarek Shawky
For over 15 years I’ve dedicated myself to criminal defense and preserving the rights of my clients. Through public defense work and private practice I’ve obtained the most valuable criminal education and experience. I’ve learned how to win trials and how to negotiate the best results for clients through relationship building and by establishing trust with Judges and prosecutors. I’ve successfully reduced bail for clients and consistently provide creative, alternative sentences to keep clients out of custody. I know how to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system to secure the best possible result in an otherwise unfortunate situation.

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Successful Case Results

Dismissed – Domestic Violence Case.

Our client and his wife booked a weekend away at a beach resort in South Orange County. They went out to dinner and after a few drinks the wife began feeling agitated and upset. The couple soon headed back to their hotel where an argument ensued just outside the hotel entrance. A bystander called the police and our client was arrested and charged with domestic violence assault at Harbor Justice center in Newport Beach. Our office conducted extensive investigations and spoke to witnesses and staff who provided important details that allowed us to secure an outright dismissal.

Dismissed – DUI Case.

Our young Latino client was driving home from a bar in Redondo Beach. He had a few drinks but felt fine to drive. He was stopped by two officers after an illegal lane change. He admitted to drinking and was arrested for DUI. After extensive discussions with the City Prosecutor at the Inglewood courthouse, the DUI case was dismissed in November 2020 in exchange for a plea to unsafe lane change, an infraction, no fine. Our client was very pleased and felt vindicated after being wrongfully arrested

Drug Charges (Possession, Distribution, or Manufacturing)

If you are facing drug charges in Los Angeles or Riverside County, rely on the expertise of our dedicated drug charge defense attorneys. With a deep understanding of California drug laws, our experienced team meticulously examines the evidence, constructs effective defense strategies, and advocates vigorously on behalf of our clients. We are committed to protecting your rights and striving for the best possible outcome.

Dismissed – Domestic Violence Case.

Our client and his wife booked a weekend away at a beach resort in South Orange County. They went out to dinner and after a few drinks the wife began feeling agitated and upset. The couple soon headed back to their hotel where an argument ensued just outside the hotel entrance. A bystander called the police and our client was arrested and charged with domestic violence assault at Harbor Justice center in Newport Beach. Our office conducted extensive investigations and spoke to witnesses and staff who provided important details that allowed us to secure an outright dismissal.

Dismissed – DUI Case.

Our young Latino client was driving home from a bar in Redondo Beach. He had a few drinks but felt fine to drive. He was stopped by two officers after an illegal lane change. He admitted to drinking and was arrested for DUI. After extensive discussions with the City Prosecutor at the Inglewood courthouse, the DUI case was dismissed in November 2020 in exchange for a plea to unsafe lane change, an infraction, no fine. Our client was very pleased and felt vindicated after being wrongfully arrested

Drug Charges (Possession, Distribution, or Manufacturing)

If you are facing drug charges in Los Angeles or Riverside County, rely on the expertise of our dedicated drug charge defense attorneys. With a deep understanding of California drug laws, our experienced team meticulously examines the evidence, constructs effective defense strategies, and advocates vigorously on behalf of our clients. We are committed to protecting your rights and striving for the best possible outcome.

Criminal Law Blog


Embezzlement in California: Insights from a Criminal Defense Attorney

In this informative blog post, a seasoned criminal defense attorney from Shawky Law sheds light on the intricacies of embezzlement charges in California.

July 20, 2023


Unraveling the Importance of Ballistics Evidence in Homicide Cases: How Shawky Law Can Safeguard Your Defense

Are you facing a challenging homicide case in Los Angeles, Orange County, or Riverside involving ballistics evidence? At Shawky Law

July 20, 2023


Understanding Burglary under the California Penal Code: Insights from a Defense Attorney

Are you in need of a skilled defense attorney in California specializing in criminal law? Look no further. Our experienced team of California defense attorneys

July 19, 2023


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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What’s the difference between theft and robbery?


Some clients who are caught shoplifting are surprised to find out that the prosecutor charged them with felony robbery in violation of California Penal Code section 211, a serious and violent strike offense. In California, a misdemeanor shoplift can be charged as a robbery if the suspect uses force or fear to in the course of the theft. That means if a shoplifter bumps the security guard on his way out of the store, the offense becomes a robbery. If you’ve been charged with a robbery, you have options, call us for a free consultation.

On November 4, 2014, California voters passed Prop. 47, which reduced certain drug and theft offenses to misdemeanors. The law established a threshold of $950 in order to charge a theft as a felony. Theft crimes involving more than $950 in property or loss are still treated as felonies. Residential burglaries and robbery offenses are also still considered felonies regardless of the loss amount.

There are a number of theft charges in the penal code. Whether the charge is a felony or a misdemeanor depends on the value and circumstances of the alleged theft. Theft of more than $950 in cash, goods or services is generally charged as a felony in California. Theft from a residence is a felony strike. Theft involving force or fear is felony robbery, a serious and violent strike offense. Less than $950 is charged as a misdemeanor pursuant to Prop. 47.

In Los Angeles, California, spitting on someone can potentially be considered an assault. Assault, as defined by California law, includes any willful and unlawful attempt to use force or violence upon another person. This definition encompasses both physical acts and actions that cause offensive contact. Spitting on someone without their consent can be interpreted as an act of offensive contact and may be considered an assault. However, it is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney who is knowledgeable about the specific laws and legal interpretations in Los Angeles, as there may be additional factors or nuances that could affect the classification or potential consequences of such an incident.

Some clients who are caught shoplifting are surprised to find out that the prosecutor charged them with felony robbery in violation of California Penal Code section 211, a serious and violent strike offense. In California, a misdemeanor shoplift can be charged as a robbery if the suspect uses force or fear to in the course of the theft. That means if a shoplifter bumps the security guard on his way out of the store, the offense becomes a robbery. If you’ve been charged with a robbery, you have options, call us for a free consultation.

On November 4, 2014, California voters passed Prop. 47, which reduced certain drug and theft offenses to misdemeanors. The law established a threshold of $950 in order to charge a theft as a felony. Theft crimes involving more than $950 in property or loss are still treated as felonies. Residential burglaries and robbery offenses are also still considered felonies regardless of the loss amount.

There are a number of theft charges in the penal code. Whether the charge is a felony or a misdemeanor depends on the value and circumstances of the alleged theft. Theft of more than $950 in cash, goods or services is generally charged as a felony in California. Theft from a residence is a felony strike. Theft involving force or fear is felony robbery, a serious and violent strike offense. Less than $950 is charged as a misdemeanor pursuant to Prop. 47.

In Los Angeles, California, spitting on someone can potentially be considered an assault. Assault, as defined by California law, includes any willful and unlawful attempt to use force or violence upon another person. This definition encompasses both physical acts and actions that cause offensive contact. Spitting on someone without their consent can be interpreted as an act of offensive contact and may be considered an assault. However, it is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney who is knowledgeable about the specific laws and legal interpretations in Los Angeles, as there may be additional factors or nuances that could affect the classification or potential consequences of such an incident.

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Our Awards

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAYS

“I’m fortunate to have known Tarek for a very long time. He’s very sharp, trustworthy, and quick witted. When I needed legal guidance, I turned to Tarek and I couldn’t have been happier. I recommend him to anyone!”
Jason O.Former Client
Jason O.
“Tarek is a former colleague of mine and an excellent attorney. He is very skilled inside the courtroom and compassionate towards his clients. I highly recommend Tarek.”
Sabrina D., Esq.Former Colleague & Attorney
Sabrina D., Esq.
“False Allegations Dismissed – Tarek has been supportive from the start and is very well versed on the legal system, from the jail house to the DAs office and the courtroom. Tarek and his staff worked diligently to do everything necessary to prove my brothers innocence after 2 counts against him. His case got dismissed. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!!”
Reyna S.Former Client’s Family
Reyna S.
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