John Elworth

John Elworth is the Assistant Chief Defender for the San Mateo County Private Defender Program. He helps oversee the program’s administration and supports attorneys providing court-appointed criminal defense. His work emphasizes data collection, case management, and performance analysis to improve indigent defense services. He also brings substantial experience representing clients in serious felony matters, including homicide cases and post-conviction proceedings involving immigration consequences.

Elworth earned his J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law and a B.S. from San Jose State University. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2003. His education and more than two decades of legal experience support his understanding of constitutional protections, criminal procedure, evidence, trial strategy, post-conviction remedies, and the professional responsibilities involved in representing people who cannot afford private counsel.

Elworth joined the Private Defender Program as a panel attorney in 2008 and focused primarily on indigent criminal defense. He handled serious felony cases, including several homicide matters that ended in acquittals or dismissals. His experience also includes filing California Penal Code Section 1473.7 petitions in partnership with Immigrant Legal Defense. These petitions may help qualifying clients challenge convictions affected by prejudicial errors involving immigration consequences.

John Elworth became Assistant Chief Defender in 2023. In this leadership role, he has collaborated with national indigent defense experts to identify useful performance measures and improve the program’s case management system. His colleagues awarded him the Woodman Award in 2019 for his dedication to zealous advocacy. His work combines courtroom experience, thoughtful administration, and a continuing commitment to effective, client-centered criminal defense.

Law Office Affiliations

• Assistant Chief Defender, San Mateo County Private Defender Program
• Member, The State Bar of California

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of San Diego School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• San Jose State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges