Andrew C. Pacheco

Andrew C. Pacheco is a highly respected criminal defense attorney whose career spans service as both a state and federal prosecutor. With extensive trial experience in Arizona Superior Court and United States District Court, he has built a reputation for handling high-stakes criminal cases and complex investigations with skill and determination.

Andrew began his academic journey at the University of Arizona, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Latin American Studies in 1993. He went on to complete his Juris Doctor at the University of Houston Law Center in 1996, preparing for a career centered on criminal law and public service.

Andrew began his legal career as a prosecutor with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, where he rose to Assistant Bureau Chief and handled high‑impact organized crime cases in the Gang Unit. In 2002, he joined the United States Attorney’s Office in Phoenix, focusing on complex organized crime prosecutions and supporting key FBI initiatives after the September 11 attacks. He led major investigations targeting domestic and international criminal organizations and transnational criminal networks.

Andrew later returned to federal service, prosecuting public corruption and immigration fraud while continuing to focus on organized crime. His career then expanded at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, where he held leadership roles including Financial Remedies Section Chief, Fraud and Special Prosecutions Section Chief, and ultimately Chief of the Criminal Division. In these positions, he oversaw prosecutors and agents statewide, advised on settlement negotiations, and represented Arizona on multiple criminal justice boards and commissions.

Andrew C. Pacheco continues to use his decades of courtroom experience, investigative insight, and leadership background to defend clients facing serious criminal matters, ensuring their rights are fully protected throughout every stage of the process. His dedication to justice has been recognized by peers, including his selection to Super Lawyers in criminal defense from 2023 to 2025. His memberships include the State Bar of Arizona and service on committees such as the Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Ryan Rapp Pacheco Sorensen, PLC
• Member, State Bar of Arizona
• Member, Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee
• Former Member, Peace Officer Standards and Training Board
• Executive Committee, Arizona Criminal Justice Commission

Licensed State

• Arizona

Education

• University of Houston Law Center
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Arizona
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges