Moksha Smith

Partner | Certified Criminal Law Specialist | Criminal Defense and Family Law

Moksha Smith is a Partner at Magdalena Law Group. She is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist with the State Bar of California, a certification which is awarded to less than 1% of practicing attorneys in California.

Prior to joining Magdalena Law Group, she was a prosecutor for five years, where she conducted approximately twenty-five jury trials, hundreds of preliminary hearings, and motions in complex domestic violence, sexual assault, and miscellaneous cases. She advocated for the rights of victims in domestic violence and sexual assault cases, which has given Ms. Smith the experience and drive to be a champion for her clients by achieving justice and helping them find a voice.

She pioneered the criminal defense branch at the firm, where she represents clients in complex criminal defense cases, including: gang, kidnapping, and sexual assault cases.

She also handles complex family law cases, including: domestic violence, custody and visitation issues, support, and property division. She has successfully conducted dozens of bench trials and is in the courtroom on a nearly daily basis.

Ms. Smith has been selected for the prestigious Marquis Who’s Who Award, Super Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers 40 under 40, and the Avvo Client’s Choice Award.

She fights for her clients behind the scenes and in the courtroom, to advocate for the best outcome, and help clients move forward with their lives in a positive manner. Ms. Smith has an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system having worked for both sides.

Ms. Smith enjoys taking a leadership role in her community, making a difference, and giving back. She serves on multiple boards, committees, and is currently an MBA candidate at Santa Clara University.

Education:

• University of California, San Diego (B.S. in Cognitive Neuroscience, Minors in Biology and Psychology);
• Santa Clara University, School of Law (Juris Doctor);
• Santa Clara University, Leavey School of Business (MBA Candidate).

Boards:

• Santa Clara Bar Association (Board of Directors);
• Niroga (Board of Directors)

Committees:

• Santa Clara Chief of Police Advisory Committee;
• California Lawyers Association (Criminal Executive Committee);
• Women’s Executive Committee, Santa Clara Bar Association (Co-chair).

Certifications:

• Certified Criminal Law Specialization;
• Santa Clara University, Board Leadership Academy.

Awards:

• Marquis Who’s Who;
• Super Lawyers;
• National Trial Lawyers (40 under 40);
• Avvo Client’s Choice Award.