When the System is Against You,
We're on Your SideNavigating the legal system can feel daunting, especially when the odds seem stacked against you. With our firm's 25+ years of experience and proven track record in state and federal cases, we're dedicated to being your unwavering advocates. Reach out today to begin building your defense and reclaiming your rights.
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney
Strong Representation for State & Federal Charges in Southern California
If you are facing state or federal criminal charges, it is vitally important that you speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney about your case as soon as possible. While you may think you can defend yourself in court or convince law enforcement personnel that a misunderstanding has occurred, you would be risking your case. The prosecution will pursue your charges aggressively and often argue for the maximum sentence. A seasoned defense lawyer can be your greatest ally in and out of the courtroom while dealing with these challenges.
Law Office of Diane C. Bass is highly respected by clients, fellow criminal defense lawyers, and legal professionals working on the other side. If you have been accused of a crime, Diane C. Bass and her legal team have extensive experience providing successful defenses to Southern California clients. She is based in Irvine and represents clients across San Diego, Los Angeles, Riverside, and Orange County.
Dedicated Service & Aggressive Defense in Orange County & Throughout Southern California
A conviction in a criminal case often comes with the potential of financial penalties, probation, and even long prison sentences. Even those who escape with a not-guilty verdict risk having their reputation tarnished by the charges.
That is why working with an attorney experienced in these cases is essential. As your legal defense, Diane C. Bass can provide dedicated service and vigorously defend your name. With her help, you may potentially walk away from charges without lasting damage.
Contact us online or at (949) 990-4195 to schedule your confidential consultation today.
Why You Need a Skilled Defense Attorney
Being charged with a crime is scary, stressful, and serious. If you or a loved one have been arrested or are being investigated for a crime, you must obtain the best possible representation from a skilled attorney at the earliest stage of the case.
Without adequate legal representation, you could be severely disadvantaged when defending yourself in court. Anything you say can, and often will, be used against you. Without the professional protection of an attorney, your case can be harmed by the many pitfalls of investigative and legal complexities. Our firm can put an aggressive defense plan on your side.
Diane C. Bass can assist you from the moment you are arrested or learn you are under investigation. Her team can help you at every step, from bail to pre-trial negotiations and beyond, always working for the most favorable outcome. Law Office of Diane C. Bass has a proven and trusted track record of success and will be by your side every step of the way.
We Put Our Clients First
Testimonials and Reviews
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"I appreciated she was straightforward and honest about our possible outcomes to our specific situation, but the results were much better than what we expected."- Dora H.
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"Her expertise, connections, analysis, and comprehensive review of my situation were more than I could ever ask. I am extremely grateful and couldn't be happier with my choice!"- Jeff R.
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"Diane is the perfect mix of gentle understanding and fierce action you’ll need if you find yourself dealing with the OC court system."- Angie T.
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"After meeting with Diane I felt immediate comfort, and I was sold on the fact that I could trust this amazing person with my life. Diane Bass was there for me every step of the way like no other attorney had ever been."- Ryan O.
A Proven History Of Success
Recent Case Results
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Probation $50 Million Immigration Fraud
Client suspected of $50,000,000 Immigration fraud. Client sentenced to 1 day of imprisonment and 3 years supervised release.
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Probation $22 Million Health Care Fraud
Client was potentially facing 97-121 months in Federal prison. Attorney Bass was able to have the fraud charges dismissed. Client pled to attempted obstruction of justice and sentenced to probation.
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Sentence Reduced $15 Million Covid Relief Fraud
DA offered 6 years state prison, client sentenced to 1 year home confinement.
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Charges Dismissed Wire Fraud / Embezzlement
Client was facing up to 21-months in Federal prison for charges of Wire Fraud/Embezzlement in the amount of $150,000.00.
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Sentence Reduced $3 Million Tax Evasion
Client facing 41 months federal prison - sentenced to 6 months.
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Not Guilty Possession with Intent to Distribute
Client facing mandatory minimum 10 years federal prison.
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Sentence Reduced Drug Trafficking Case
Client was facing 10 year mandatory minimum. He was sentenced to 6 months with credit for time served, released the night.
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Probation Bank Fraud
Client was facing up to 27-33 months in prison for Bank Fraud/loss amount $62,000.
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7 Days in Custody Federal Rico Conspiracy
Client was facing life in prison.
Attorney Diane C. Bass handles federal criminal charges nationwide and represents clients in state criminal matters throughout Southern California. With decades of professional experience in her field and national recognition as a Super Lawyer, she and her team bring exceptional knowledge, skills, and resources to your case, whether it involves violent or nonviolent crime accusations.
Why Choose Law Office of Diane C. Bass?
The Right Attorney Makes a Difference
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Top-Rated & Award-Winning Legal RepresentationWe consistently deliver results that exceed expectations, earning the trust of clients and accolades from the legal community.
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25+ Years of Criminal Defense Legal ExperienceWith over 25 years of criminal defense legal experience, we bring a wealth of seasoned insight and a proven track record of success to every case we handle.
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Extensive Knowledge & Experience With Federal CasesWith extensive knowledge and experience in federal cases, we offer comprehensive legal strategies tailored to the complexities of each situation.
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An Outstanding Reputation Amongst Clients & PeersOur reputation among clients and peers alike reflects our unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for those we represent.
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Featured in the MediaAttorney Bass is frequently featured in media outlets such as The Washington Post, LA Times, ESPN, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal and more.
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Track Record of SuccessWith a track record of handling some of the most significant cases in the Central District of California, our firm brings unmatched experience to every client's defense.
Attorney Bass is a trusted advisor to numerous media outlets, with our experience recognized and sought after across various platforms.
WHO I AM
Thirty Years in Federal Court. I Know How This System Works — Including How Federal Judges Think.
I have been a criminal defense attorney in Southern California for almost 30 years. In that time, I have handled everything from MS-13 and Mexican Mafia cases to billion-dollar investment fraud to the bookmaking case at the center of the Shohei Ohtani scandal. I have tried cases in front of judges appointed by every administration dating back to Reagan. I know how federal prosecutors build their cases. I know how federal agents gather evidence. And I know — from thirty years of standing in front of them — how federal judges think.
Most federal judges are extraordinarily smart. They read every word you submit. They come to sentencing hearings prepared. They notice when an attorney hasn't done the work. And they respond when someone has.
That knowledge — knowing what a federal judge is actually looking for when they review a sentencing memorandum, when they consider a motion to suppress, when they weigh a cooperation agreement — is not something you learn from a book. It comes from decades of showing up in that courtroom, losing cases you should have won and winning cases nobody thought you could, and paying attention every single time.
Before law school, I studied ballet, drama, and performance — including three years at UC Irvine as a drama major. I mention this not as a curiosity but because it is genuinely relevant to what I do. Federal court is, among other things, a performance. A jury that is falling asleep wakes up when someone with real training in presence, timing, and storytelling stands up to speak. I have been in front of enough juries to know that how you say something matters as much as what you say.
I am a solo practitioner. When you hire me, you get me — not an associate, not a paralegal, not someone you've never met. Me.
Call (949) 990-4195 for a confidential consultation with our Orange County criminal defense lawyer. Or reach us on our contact page to get started.