Charles Stoddard

Charles Stoddard has built a distinguished reputation as one of Orange County’s most respected criminal defense attorneys. Since beginning his career, he has dedicated himself to protecting the rights of individuals accused of crimes and ensuring that each client receives a strong and fair defense built on skill, preparation, and commitment.

Charles began his academic journey at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, where he graduated cum laude from the College Honors Program with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1990. In 1993, he earned his Juris Doctor from the College of William & Mary Marshall-Wythe School of Law.

Charles launched his professional career as a Deputy District Attorney at the Butte County District Attorney’s Office in 1994. Soon after, he returned to Orange County to work at a prominent criminal defense firm, where he practiced exclusively for the next ten years. During that period, he handled hundreds of cases, developed trial expertise, and gained a reputation for tenacity and integrity in the courtroom.

Charles’s excellence in legal service has been recognized with multiple honors. In 2012, he received the West Orange County Bar Association Michael A. Horan Award for Excellence, Commitment, and Dedication. His continued commitment to the highest ideals of the legal profession earned him a place among the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel in 2015. That same year, he was recognized as a Member of the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, acknowledging his outstanding client advocacy and results.

Charles Stoddard has appeared in court nearly every day for three decades, conducting more than 100 jury trials and negotiating favorable outcomes for countless clients. His lifelong commitment to justice and tireless defense of the accused have made him a trusted advocate throughout Orange County.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Paladin Legal Defenders
• Member, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
• Member, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

Licensed State

• California

Education

• William & Mary Marshall-Wythe School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of California, Los Angeles
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges