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   Top Rated Service
   4.5 Excellent rating Last 12 months 
  New reviews collected regularly Recent review activity detected 
  Verified by Trustindex Based on real customer reviews Learn more 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 5.0
 5.0
 Top Rated Service
   Verified by Trustindex   Top Rated Service
   5.0 Excellent rating Last 12 months 
  New reviews collected regularly Recent review activity detected 
  Verified by Trustindex Based on real customer reviews Learn more 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 4.5
 4.5
 Top Rated Service
   Verified by Trustindex   Top Rated Service
   4.5 Excellent rating Last 12 months 
  New reviews collected regularly Recent review activity detected 
  Verified by Trustindex Based on real customer reviews Learn more 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   The Goul 
 708 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 
 5494 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. DUI case dismissed thanks to Cameron and VIB Law.
I highly recommend Cameron when looking for a DUI defense lawyer for representation in court. I was referred to Cameron by a friend as I was needing an experienced and savvy DUI attorney to fight for me in court as I believed my arrest to be unlawful. Cameron was able to not only win my APS hearing with the DMV but successfully demonstrated to the judge that my arrest was unlawful due to an illegal stop by the officer. The DA did not oppose our motion to surpress and dismissed the charges against me. I can not thank Cameron enough for believing in me and fighting for my rights in court.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   Andy 
 6081 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Commanding
Cameron is a very strong court room attorney. He has great knowledge of the ins and outs of the law from all angles. I felt very secure while in court with him knowing I would be able to get the best possible outcome in my case. He made things comfortable for me as the legal proceedings got prolonged and I found myself with lots of confidence due to his very commanding personality. Cameron was definitely the right attorney for me and my situation and I’m sure he can be for many others in the same need. Lastly I didn’t feel like Cameron is in it to get in to your pocket book as many attorneys are. I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for the great job he did for me. Andy K.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 4221 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 Google  
   
   Mariaz Shepherd 
 16 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When you find yourself in need of a lawyer — especially when you've never needed one before and you need to protect your good name — you want someone with whom you can build quick rapport with, who has a level of confidence that comes only deep experience, is both attentive and reachable, and has a well-proven track record of success. This is all Cameron Bowman.

I didn't have much time to find a lawyer, but now that my situation is positively resolved, I'm glad I didn't have much time to search because it led me to working with Cameron. I was anxious and he was able to quickly understand my situation and calm me down. We took easy, approachable steps to get to a positive resolution and throughout it all, he managed my many questions clearly, patiently, and in a very timely manner. I appreciated his openness to sharing possible outcomes, while emphasizing the most likely ones (in my case, positive ones) in a way that didn't worry me any further. Please don't hesitate to give him a call should you need help. You'll be glad you did.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 1785 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Cameron Bowman, the Batman I needed to rescue me from trouble
I was charged of a misdemeanor and a felony charge. I was recommended Mr. Bowman as the best criminal lawyer in the county. I took the advice and explained my situation to Mr. Bowman and he patiently listened to my whole situation, even though it was on a weekend. He wasted no time in analyzing the details and immediately suggested everything I got to do, in order to make our case strong and asked me to leave the rest to him. Every time I got haunted by the thoughts of ending up in jail, I would call him (he was very approachable) and I would feel a ton of burden lifted off my chest after speaking to him. Thanks to his proactive approach and his connections within the DA's office, he got both of my charges dropped like he always predicted would happen. If at all you are in need of a criminal lawyer in Santa Clara county, don't waste your time in looking beyond Cameron Bowman. HE IS THE BEST there is and he will take care of your case.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Shyam Venkatesh 
 132 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 Avvo  
   
   Brandy 
 4639 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. My Life saver and life changer
Cameron Bowman is my savior. From the beginning he and his office put me at ease and took care of me. I felt comfortable with him from the very beginning. He was open and honest with me, and gave me every scenario that could come up. He never made me false promises, and never guaranteed me anything. He did tell me his is good at what he does, and I believed every word. And you know what HE WAS RIGHT!!! Given his background and presence in the community he knows the right things to do for his clients. I am so grateful that I was referred to his office and I was able to hire him for my needs. I never plan to need him again but if I do he will be on my speed dial!!
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   Lorna 
 6075 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Excellent Criminal Defense Attorney
Cameron is an A+ attorney who has the experience necessary to get you or your loved ones the best results. Not only is Cameron knowledgeable in all areas of Criminal Law but he is a man of integrity, an expert in his field, aggressive and takes care of his clients. Cameron was successful in getting all charges dropped against my son who was facing 3 strikes. My only regret was I did not hire him from the first moment my son needed legal representation. If your future is at risk don’t hesitate to retain the attorney with the expertise to turn things around, Cameron Bowman!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Judith Bushey 
 116 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  
   
   anonymous 
 5799 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. Highest regard for Cameron
I am a professional who was unfortunately faced with the prospect of DV charges. Cameron empathetically listened to my case and why any charges being filed would be devastating to me, my family and my career. He worked professionally and communicated regularly and calmly with me to put together a strategy to try and avoid any charges being filed. Through his hard work w/ the DDA assigned to the matter and persuasive advocacy, we received notice that the DDA was declining to file charges. I am absolutely thrilled w/his representation and highly recommend him to anyone who wants a real professional to handle any matter delicate or otherwise.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 5601 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. DUI - .12/.12 with accident - San Jose, CA
Cameron is a great attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable and is honest and reliable. I contacted Cameron on a Sunday via email and within (2) hours he called me to talk to me about my situation. Immediately, I felt comfortable and knew that he was the right attorney for me. I didn't even meet Cameron in person before I decided to go ahead and hire him. Not only is he a great attorney, but, his pricing is extremely competitive. Cameron was able to keep me out of jail which in turn saved my job and saved my life! I am very thankful and grateful and would definately recommend him to anyone that faces a DUI/DWI charge in the bay area.
  
 
     Posted on Avvo  
   
   tracey 
 4215 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 Avvo  
   
   anonymous 
 1883 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Avvo. The help we needed
We hired Cameron Bowman because of his specialization in DV cases, past experience as a prosecutor, and his connections with the local courts, judges, and DA office. Anxious and honestly terrified, I appreciated the straightforward and candid way in which the process, case, and options were explained. Cameron gave us an honest assessment of my chances plus the pros and cons of each option at each step of the process. He was kind and empathetic, and I felt heard for the first time since the accusation/arrest. The case dragged on for almost a year, and throughout that time, Cameron scheduled and provided a thorough check-in and review each time we requested it. Although we were unable to get the dismissal we had hoped for, under Mr Bowman's guidance and counsel, we were able to navigate unfavorable conditions and a lengthy process to achieve a good outcome, all things considered. We are grateful for his expertise and work, and intend to hire him again when it comes time to seal the record next year.

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.