Kristine Koo

Compassionate with her clients, yet aggressive in court, Kristine Koo ensures her clients are well represented. With over a decade of experience practicing criminal law, from misdemeanors to felonies to appeals, Kristine’s legal acumen is exemplary. After graduating from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, she went straight to the Office of the Public Defender’s in Bradenton, Florida to try cases. There, she worked tirelessly with some of the poorest clients, advocating for their liberty in court. In Florida, Kristine also tried two significant capital (life in prison without parole) sexual battery cases in Florida – where she cross examined a three year old and six year old.

After Kristine’s time in Florida, she went on to work as a Deputy District Attorney in Fresno where she prosecuted misdemeanors, majority of them being DUIs. Since Kristine was a DA, she knows how cases are prosecuted and understands how cases are filed. She can sometimes work with the DA before cases even get into a courtroom to avoid prosecution. After her time at the DA’s office, she returned back to the Defense Bar.

Kristine is known for her listening ear, making sure her clients are heard. Kristine wants to understand her clients fully so they can collaborate on the best defense. She is empathetic and kind. In trial, however, she is known for being zealous, aggressive, and firm. Kristine has tried over 50 jury trials, including two sex crime cases where the defendants were looking at life in prison, with no parole. No matter what kind of case going to trial, from stealing a burrito (true story – ask Kristine about it) to molesting children, Kristine has your back and will get you through your case.

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Previous Criminal Law Background

• Assistant Public Defender, Sarasota, Florida
• Deputy District Attorney, Fresno, CA
• Alternate Defender, Fresno, CA

Central California Appellate Program

Currently serves on the panel for the 3rd and 5th Districts of the Court of Appeals

Specific Training

• National Criminal Defense College (2013)
• Advanced trial training; coached on cross examination, direct examination, jury selection, and story telling by nationally renowned trial lawyers