Michael C. Lukehart

Michael C. Lukehart has been a dedicated advocate in the field of Criminal Defendant Litigation since 1982. His career began with the Kern County Public Defender, where he honed his skills over 26 years before establishing his own office in 2008. Throughout his career, Mr. Lukehart has defended numerous high-profile and complex cases, notably pioneering the defense of Three-Strikes trials in California.

In 2002, Mr. Lukehart was recognized as the Defender of the Year by the California Public Defenders Association, a testament to his exceptional contributions to criminal defense. The following year, he received similar accolades from the Kern County Bar Association, Criminal Defense Section. His professional excellence is further highlighted by his listing in Martindale-Hubbell's Bar Register of Pre-Eminent Attorneys and his AV® Peer Review Rating, which signifies the highest level of professional achievement and ethical standards.

Mr. Lukehart also holds a top Avvo rating of 10 (Superb), distinguishing him as a leading attorney in Kern County. His expertise is frequently sought after by various professional, educational, and law enforcement organizations, where he serves as a speaker. However, his true prowess shines in the courtroom, where he dedicates himself fully to each case, regardless of its size or complexity.

Throughout his career, Mr. Lukehart has completed 284 felony jury trials, including 51 homicide trials and 32 special circumstance cases. He is Death Penalty Qualified, reflecting his capability in handling the most serious criminal matters. Mr. Lukehart treats every case with the utmost attention and respect, understanding the personal significance each holds for his clients.