Case Results

Former Prosecutor. Relentless Advocate. Consistent Results.

Ryan Couzens built his reputation on one principle: preparation and strategy produce outcomes. With sixteen years as a prosecutor and dozens of jury trials behind him, he understands what it takes to dismantle a case from the inside. Now, as a defense attorney, that experience translates directly into results for his clients—dismissals before charges are filed, felony reductions to misdemeanors, alternative sentencing that avoids incarceration, and outright case dismissals after strategic negotiation.

The following results reflect real outcomes across the five primary areas of criminal defense we handle. While every case is unique and past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, these examples demonstrate the strategic, strategic approach that defines our practice.

DUI Defense Results

DUI cases often hinge on technical details—unlawful stops, faulty testing procedures, Title 17 violations, and rising BAC defenses. We challenge every aspect of the evidence, from the initial traffic stop to the admissibility of breath and blood tests. Many of our DUI cases result in charge reductions to wet or dry reckless, dismissals based on suppressed evidence, or minimized penalties through alternative sentencing.

Client outcome:

“DUI Plead down to Dry & Reckless. Ryan is an excellent attorney! From day one he was professional, knowledgeable and fabulous in communicating… He was able to get my charge and fine reduced.”

“We are so thankful to Ryan Couzens for getting a dismissal for my husband’s DUI. You’re the best Ryan!!”

Domestic Violence Defense Results

Domestic violence cases are complex, emotionally charged, and carry severe collateral consequences beyond jail time—restraining orders, custody issues, and professional licensing implications. We’ve successfully defended clients by exposing false allegations, establishing self-defense, demonstrating lack of evidence, and negotiating charge reductions that avoid DV convictions entirely. Many domestic violence cases we handle result in dismissals or reductions to non-DV offenses such as disturbing the peace.

Client outcome:

“DV plea to 415(2) disturbing the peace. Ryan is an exceptional and practical attorney… With his prior experience as a DA, he understands how the other side thinks and plays their hand. He has intuitive ideas and creative angles in framing your defense.”

Drug Crime Defense Results

Drug cases often involve constitutional violations—unlawful searches, illegal surveillance, and questionable warrants. We’ve secured dismissals by challenging Fourth Amendment violations, suppressing illegally obtained evidence, and demonstrating lack of probable cause. We also pursue alternative sentencing through diversion programs, drug court, and treatment-focused resolutions that prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration.

Client outcome:

“I was accused of a crime that would have ruined my life. Once I hired Mr. Couzens he worked tirelessly to gather materials and present my case to the DA to get them not to file. After months of work, the DA decided not to charge the case.”

Felony Defense Results

Felony charges carry life-altering consequences, but strategic early intervention can change the trajectory of a case. We’ve achieved dismissals in serious felony cases, including firearm-related charges, violent crime allegations, and cases carrying potential decades in prison. Through thorough investigation, strategic pre-filing advocacy, and relentless negotiation, we’ve secured charge reductions, alternative sentencing, and complete case dismissals.

Client outcome:

“I’m beyond grateful to have had Ryan Couzens as my attorney. His expertise, dedication, and tireless efforts led to the dismissal of two felony charges, which carried a maximum sentence of 12 years.”

“Phenomenal representation! I was charged with 9 felonies… facing a minimum of 3 months in jail… He was successful at reducing my charges to a probation time and a community services time with (Zero) day in jail.”

“The complexities of firearms laws can be overwhelming in the state of California. Ryan communicated the technicalities of these laws and was able to get felony charges dismissed.”

Misdemeanor Defense Results

Even misdemeanor charges can derail careers, professional licenses, and immigration status. We treat every misdemeanor case with urgency, pursuing dismissals, diversions, and charge reductions that protect our clients’ records. Whether it’s theft-related offenses, assault charges, or public order violations, we work to achieve outcomes that minimize long-term consequences.

Client outcome:

“I recently got a DUI and found myself in need of an attorney. Luckily, I knew of Ryan Couzens… I honestly would have been lost without his help, and know my outcome would not have been as good.”

“I’m incredibly grateful for the outstanding job Mr. Couzens did getting my case dismissed. From start to finish, they were professional, responsive, and clearly knew the law inside and out.”

Pre-Filing Interventions: Stopping Charges Before They Start

One of the most valuable outcomes in criminal defense is preventing charges from being filed in the first place. Through strategic pre-filing representation, we present evidence and legal arguments directly to prosecutors before formal charges are issued. This approach has led to numerous cases being declined for prosecution entirely—meaning no arraignment, no public record, and no criminal case.

Client outcome:

“My husband and I were represented by Ryan Couzens during one of the most challenging times in our lives, where my husband was wrongfully accused of a crime he did not commit… Ryan showed unwavering belief in our innocence and took immediate, strategic action, hiring a private investigator, thoroughly gathering evidence, and presenting critical information to the District Attorney before we even reached arraignment. Thanks to his relentless dedication and exceptional legal skill, our case was completely dismissed.”

“Mr. Couzens explained the entire process to me and negotiated with the DA both before, and after the charges were filed. After these negotiations, the DA agreed to drop the charges.”

Results matter. Experience matters. Preparation matters.

Every case is different, but the approach remains the same: challenge the evidence, protect constitutional rights, and pursue every avenue toward the strongest possible outcome. If you’re facing criminal charges in Greater Sacramento or Placer County, early intervention with experienced counsel can make all the difference.