San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney — Former Prosecutor

Cameron Bowman is a trusted advisor and fierce trial attorney with over 30 years on the front lines of legal warfare
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My name is Cameron Bowman, and I have spent the last thirty years working in the criminal justice system as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney.

For 17 years (1989–2006), I served as a prosecutor in the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, handling some of the county’s most serious criminal cases. I was the lead prosecutor in nearly one hundred trials, from gang crimes and homicides to domestic violence, and prosecuted Santa Clara County’s first “Three Strikes” case.

That experience taught me how the prosecution builds a case, gathers evidence, and prepares witnesses. In 1998, I was named the county’s Trial Attorney of the Year after winning a year-long case involving prison gang members who ordered a murder from Pelican Bay State Prison.

My time in the Family Violence Unit was particularly meaningful. I tried numerous domestic violence cases, advocated for hundreds of victims, and received specialized training that deepened my understanding of these complex cases.
In 2006, I moved into criminal defense because I believe everyone deserves a strong, principled advocate. I worked at the Independent Defender’s Office and later became a founding partner in one of Northern California’s largest criminal defense firms.

Having prosecuted cases, defended the accused, and advocated for victims, I understand how the same incident can look different from each side. I draw on that experience to examine the evidence, question assumptions, and help my clients understand their options.

From researching your case to deciding what to do

Some clients come to me after researching their situation with ChatGPT or another AI tool. I understand why. When you are worried about your future, a quick explanation can help you make sense of unfamiliar terms and organize your questions.

I have also represented clients who acted on AI-generated guidance before we spoke. Even an accurate general answer may not fit the facts, evidence, or consequences of your case.

I want to understand what you read, what you have already done, and what concerns you most. Together, we can work through your options using the facts of your case and my experience in Santa Clara County.

AI can inform you, but it cannot defend you. My job is to help you understand where you stand and develop a strategy for moving forward.

Specializing in the following practice areas:

Domestic Violence

and all other family violence related crimes

Violent Crime and Homicide

and all other violent or weapons-related crimes

Sex Charges

and all other accusations of sexual misconduct

Record Arrest Sealing

Expungements and all other post conviction motions

Reviews & Testimonials

      All reviews
 
   Google
 
   Avvo
 
 
  
 
 
 
  4.5
 4.5
 Top Rated Service 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
 
 
 
    
 5.0
 5.0
 Top Rated Service 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
 
 
 
    
 4.5
 4.5
 Top Rated Service 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 5978 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Cameron kennard Bowman
He helped me get out of the trouble I was in, and has helped me to a new future.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   tracey 
 4179 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Great defense attorney, really helped us out.
I met Cameron while working at the District Attorney's office, and referred several people to his firm (all had very high regards for how Cameron handled their issues). He really supported my niece on a sentencing issue after the public defender did a pretty poor job on it. We really appreciate all he did to help, going above and beyond, and his presence really helped calm our nerves and brought some sanity back into her life.... Cameron is an excellent attorney!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   The Goul 
 672 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Cameron and his team were very easy to work with and always responded within a reasonable amount of time. All questions were answered in detail, was guided through the process for my case, and was taken care of in a timely manner. Highly recommend Mr. Cameron Bowman. He is a natural born fighter.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 4185 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Outstanding
Let me start by saying that I am a lawyer who works within the criminal justice system. It was almost painful for me to watch someone else do "my" job, but it gives me the unique opportunity to give you an honest impression that distinguishes the good from the bad. Many people don't know that Cameron Bowman was a highly distinguished prosecutor within the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office. He was on the special operations and homicide teams and he was the felony trial attorney of the year in the late 90s. That means he was the most impressive trial attorney out of the 180 trial attorneys the DA employs. It's a BIG deal. Fundamentally, you have to understand that criminal cases get resolved in one of three ways: dismissal, settlement, or trial. There are no other options. You will get nowhere on any of those fronts if you can't try a case. DAs won't dismiss or settle cases against sloppy attorneys because they know they can win at trial. They will push forward on cases where they know the defense attorney is lazy or incompetent. They can't do that with Cameron Bowman. He can try circles around most attorneys in this County. That kind of experience is invaluable. It gives him and incredibly unique perspective. He won't make you unrealistic promises, but instead, will guide you through the process. He'll let you know what you can do to improve your own situation and he'll do what he can to manage it. He is well respected by the judges and the prosecutors in this County. And if push comes to shove, there is no one you'd rather have represent you when 12 members of the community are going to decide your fate.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   G 
 4901 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. DV case... Mr. Cameron Bowman is the Best!
I am posting this review because I feel like it will help people to find the right professional as it helped to me. Several months ago I was arrested for DV... lost, sad, hopeless I decided to do an extensive research on the Internet in order to find an excellent attorney who can handle my case. Since the very first moment I met with Mr. Cameron Bowman I felt like I found the right person, and I wasn't wrong.! He gave me great confidence. I felt so relieved when he said he would take care of my case. He was always keeping me updated about every step of the process with great patience, efficacy, efficiency and professionalism. He and his staff work perfectly. It turns out that Mr. Bowman was amazingly able to get no charges from the DA. In addition, he got from the Judge to grant my Motion for Factual Innocence, meaning that my arrest records were ordered to be sealed WOW! I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER! He is simply the best.! I really appreciate the time and work that he put into my case. I highly recommend Mr. Bowman to anyone looking for a solid legal representation.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 5657 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Would Highly Recommend
My dad was arrested due to an incident at a park involving a child and his mother - largely due to misunderstanding of my dad's condition: Alzheimer's & dementia. Cameron was very knowledgeable in this area, as well as understanding my dad's situation. By working with the police department and the DA's office (numerous phone conversations), he was able to convince them to have the case against my dad "discharged". Additionally, he has helped to file a petition to "Seal and Destroy Arrest Record", which recently has been granted by the police department. Cameron was very professional and efficient in handling my dad's case, with a very positive outcome.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   Dana 
 2140 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Amazing Defense Lawyer
Mr. Bowman is AMAZING!!! I can't thank him enough for the work he did on my son's case. He went above and beyond in every way. Every email or call i made was answered and responded to promptly and he explained everything to us every step of the way during his court proceedings. He was very honest about my son's case and what he was up against but he never stopped fighting for the best outcome for my son & in the end he got my son's case dismissed!!! I recommend him to anyone who needs an amazing criminal defense lawyer!
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 3901 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Hands down the BEST!!
I had a major criminal case that tied into a restraining order. I was falsely accused of something. Cameron handled the restraining order case. His communication throughout the process was above and beyond. If i emailed him, he would respond back promptly. If i called the office, he would contact me back ASAP. He helped me when I was nervous and was real with me. He let me know what he was thinking and were the situation stood in his mind. He is highly trustworthy and skilled. Don't let his kindness fool you, he controlled the court room. He's aggressive, extremely smart, I called him the legal Mike Tyson after he won my restraining order case. He is the best period. I will recommend Cameron to anyone who needs a criminal lawyer! Get Cameron and win! He will out perform his job tasks as your lawyer. I am so thankful he was mine. You saved my life Cameron in a highly critical situation that revolved around a high felony and I was sick to my stomach with the false accusations. You delivered and then some!
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   roger 
 4092 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. DUI Marijuana Case
Cameron Bowman handled our DUI marijuana case professionally and expertly with detailed and aggressive cross examination of the procecutions two police officers star witnesses. He ripped them on cross examination which completely destroying the prosectution’s case. This left the prosecuting DA no choice but to dismiss this case after this damaging testimony completely destroying the prosectution's claims and assertions. We are overjoyed with the dismissal ruling in our case. It took over a year to get a resolution to the case but our first lawyer did not do a good job in our defense. We interviewed Cameron, hired him and he picked up that ball and ran with it to its eventual success outcome. We highly recommend Cameron as an outstanding defense attorney for DUI marijuana or marijuana cases. It is a refreshing change to work with a law group that does not pass off a case to junior lawyers in a firm to handle. At VIB, Valencia, Ippolito & Bowman Attorneys at Law, we interacted with a partner, Cameron Bowman from beginning to end.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 4933 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. I was in need of a great Lawyer and found Cameron Bowman of VIB Attorneys at Law
I made a mistake in judgement and was arrested on DUI charges. I had never been in trouble before and was not familiar with what I should do and when to do it. Cameron Bowman called me back within minutes of my call and eased my stress and anxiety I had from being in this difficult situation. After asking me a few questions regarding my situation, he asked me to come to his office as soon as I could where the atmosphere was professional, relaxing, and friendly. My first impression was that Cameron Bowman understood how I was feeling which was a great help to me. Regarding knowledge Mr. Bowman has experience with both sides of the law. He knows how to help you understand how the system works and what to expect. He will immediately start a strategy and plan for your issue leading up to your day in court. He and his staff are easily accessible and will help you through the process. Nobody is ever pleased to go through this but having Mr. Bowman by my side made me feel like I was in good hands. When my day in court came I was very glad I had Cameron Bowman representing me and speaking in my behalf. I was very pleased with the results of my case. If you don't have a lawyer or you plan to just go to court and see what happens, do yourself a favor and call Cameron Bowman you won't be sorry!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Shyam Venkatesh 
 96 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family is deeply grateful to have engaged Mr. Bowman. He is an extremely knowledgeable attorney who approached our case with empathy and thoughtfulness, keeping us calm and reassured throughout the entire legal process lasting over 18 months. We trusted him completely. Thanks to his expert strategy, we reached a successful outcome wherein the case has been dismissed. We, highly and without any reservations recommend him to anyone in need of a supportive and effective advocate.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Judith Bushey 
 80 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cameron Bowman, Attorney at Law, represented a family member of mine who was charged with multiple extremely serious felony crimes.  Over the course of a 2 1/2 year period, Mr. Bowman provided outstanding defense strategies which led to the best possible outcome.  Mr. Bowman is highly competent and committed to the belief that everyone deserves fairness in our justice system.  You can trust that he’ll do his best for your situation.  I am honored to recommend Mr.  Bowman’s services as a Defense Attorney.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   Bonnie 
 5256 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Excellent Service and Assistance from Mr. Bowman
Mr. Bowman handled a case for my daughter. He is extremely professional, competent, and has excellent follow-thru. I would gladly recommend him to anyone who needs assistance from an attorney. Even his office staff (Nancy) are very professional and helpful. Thank you Mr. Bowman!!

Media & Coverage Highlights

A Black Army Vet Held 16 Months in Solitary — Then Acquitted
Washington Post, June 2022
I defended Andrew Johnson, who was held in solitary confinement pretrial for 16 months. After presenting our defense, the jury returned a Not Guilty verdict in under two hours.
(Read the full story on Washington Post)

Veteran Acquitted in Self-Defense Shooting, Sues for Jail Treatment
ABC7 News
I represented a U.S. Army veteran who was cleared of attempted murder charges and is now suing for alleged mistreatment in custody.
(Read the ABC7 report)

Feature: “The Festival Lawyer”

Feature: “The Festival Lawyer”
Vice Magazine
A profile of me exploring how my experience, interests, and legal work intersect — including my work as “The Festival Lawyer.”
(Read the Vice article)

Certification

Duke University School of Law - 2018
UCSF Hastings School of Law - 2016

Education

Juris Doctor - Santa Clara University - May 1989

Awards

“Trial Attorney of the Year” - Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office - June 1998
National Trial Lawyers Association - “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” - 2022

Court Admissions

Admitted to Practice in California - Supreme Court of California - December 1989
Admitted to Practice Federal Law - Northern California District - December 1989

Memberships

California Public Defender’s Association
LEAP - Law Enforcement

My five promises to you:

I will only take a case where I know I can help

I will always be the most prepared lawyer in the courtroom

I start every case with the presumption that you are NOT guilty

You will always be able to reach me when you have a question about your case

I will never run from a fight

Request a Free Consultation

Throughout my career, I have tried over 100 cases to verdict, so I am confident that I am as skilled a trial attorney as you can find. Period.

However, I am just as proud of my skills as a negotiator. My reputation as a skilled trial lawyer and my connections in the criminal justice system allows me to get great results for my clients. My entire goal is to get my clients past the nightmare they may now find themselves in and will enable them to move on with their life.