Martin A. Jones

Martin Jones is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney renowned for handling the most complex and high-stakes cases, including death penalty matters, where his strategic advocacy has led juries to fully reject the allegations in numerous cases.

Martin Jones stands at the forefront of criminal defense, known for his strategic precision, persuasive courtroom presence, and a proven record of success in high-stakes cases. With more than two decades of experience as a criminal defense attorney, Martin previously served as the Assistant Chief Defense Attorney and Felony Supervisor at the Placer County Public Defender’s Office. He chose to leave the Public Defender’s Office to dedicate more time and attention to individual clients. Martin believes that clients are not just case numbers—they are people who deserve respect, compassion, and open communication. He emphasizes that exceptional representation requires accessibility and a genuine attorney-client connection.

From an early age, Martin recognized the injustices present in the world, particularly within marginalized communities. He dedicated time to understanding different cultures, and this appreciation for diverse perspectives has strengthened his ability to read and understand human behavior. This insight guides his approach to building strong, empathetic, and effective defenses for his clients.

For Martin, seeing his clients maintain their reputations and return safely to their families and children is a profound motivator. Protecting their freedom and dignity drives him to fight relentlessly for the best possible outcomes in every case.

Martin earned a reputation for integrity, precision, and outstanding results. Known for his calm command of the courtroom allows him methodical approach to navigate even the toughest legal challenges with confidence and precision. He delivers strong, personalized representation to clients facing serious criminal charges and fights to achieve the best possible result, no matter the charges.

 Martin Jones has tried nearly 75 jury trials and represented thousands of clients throughout his career. He has handled the full spectrum of criminal cases, including complex and high-profile matters such as sex crimes, human trafficking, drug possession and trafficking, rape, kidnapping, murder and homicide, federal offenses, internet crimes, domestic violence, assault and battery, arson, fraud, theft, DUI, evading law enforcement, and white-collar crimes.

 He successfully handled cases involving the death penalty, where he was able to save his clients from death row. He is experienced in handling matters involving highly specialized areas of the law,w such as sexually violent predators and mentally disordered offenders.

Martin earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry, a background that provides him with a deep understanding of complex forensic issues, including DNA analysis and medical evidence. Early in his career, he served as a law clerk to the Honorable William F. Rylaarsdam of the California Court of Appeal, Fourth District, where he contributed to drafting several appellate opinions. Dedicated to continual growth in his field, Martin regularly attends advanced capital case training programs and is a 2018 graduate of Gerry Spence’s renowned Trial Lawyers College – Defense of the Damned.

Outside the courtroom, Martin Jones is passionate about giving back and making a real difference in his community. He serves as Chairman of the Placer County Food Bank and sits on the Board of Directors for the California Bicycle Coalition, championing safer streets and sustainable cycling initiatives. For Martin, connecting with everyday people and supporting meaningful causes is as important as his work in the courtroom.

EDUCATION

§  B.S in Biochemistry from Cal State, Fullerton, NSF/REU grant

§  Graduated with top honors from Western State Law School, Fullerton, CA, Dean’s List, Witkin Award, and Law Review Notes Editor

AWARDS

§  California Super Lawyer List               2024  - 2025

§  US- Criminal Defense Lawyer Of The Year            2026

§  Top National Trial Lawyers Top 100   2023 – 2025

          Criminal Defense

§  Sacramento Magazine Top Lawyer 2023- 2024-2025

          Criminal Defense

§  Legal Elite 2020 -2021

§  Elite Lawyer         2025

          Criminal Defense

§  American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys

          Winning DUI Cases

§  American Top Attorneys 2022

          Criminal Defense Law

§  US News Magazine

          Best Law Firm 2023

§  Best lawyer Best law Firms  2019- 2024 – 2025

§  City’s Best Award 2021- 2022-2023

Professional Associations

§  Member of the State Bar of California, admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California

§  Board Member of the Placer Food Bank

Chairman of the Board 2017 – 2019

§  The Secretary of CalBike 2022- 2025

MEDIA APPERANCES AND COVERAGE

§  Elder Abuse and Manslaughter – Los Angeles Times, Print and Broadcast Media
A 91-year-old woman living with her great-niece died weighing just 35 pounds and covered with severe sores. The case drew widespread attention and raised significant concerns about the line between caregiving and neglect, highlighting the challenges of in-home elder care.

§  Murder Case – Print and Broadcast Media
Martin Jones represented a Roseville man charged with four counts of murder. The killings occurred over several days across two Northern California counties, resulting in the tragic loss of the client’s entire family.

§  Shooting Case – Broadcast Media
In a case involving a shooting at the ABC10 news station in Sacramento, Martin Jones represented the accused. He successfully argued that his client’s political views should not influence the legal proceedings and emphasized the importance of focusing solely on the facts of the case.

§  Super Lawyers Recognition – Print Media
In 2024, Martin Jones was featured in the August edition of Super Lawyers, an honor recognizing his exceptional legal skills and his outstanding reputation within the legal community.

§  Additional Media Presence
Martin Jones has appeared in numerous commentary segments and case-related features on broadcast media, providing expert legal insight on high-profile criminal cases.