LA Criminal Defense Attorney John Duran

Trusted in West Hollywood, Respected Across Los Angeles County Courtrooms

A trusted advocate with {experience_years} years of experience, deep local ties, and a commitment to protecting your future.

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The Duran Law Group
John Duran

Attorney John Duran

For two decades, John Duran served as Mayor and Councilmember in West Hollywood, where he became one of the city’s most recognizable leaders. But long before—and long after—his time in office, John has been a trial lawyer. With 37 years of courtroom experience, he’s defended thousands of clients across Southern California in cases ranging from DUIs and drug offenses to high-profile constitutional challenges.

Known for his candor and compassion, John doesn’t promise miracles—he promises to fight for the best possible outcome, drawing on decades of legal skill and a deep understanding of what his clients are going through. Whether it’s a first-time mistake, false accusation, or the most serious of charges, John brings relentless advocacy and practical solutions to every case.

  • Log cabin icon

    Co-facilitator of West Hollywood Alcohol/Drug Recovery Center and preservation of the Log Cabin facility

  • EQCA

    Co-founder of Equality California and LIFE AIDS Lobby

  • NALEO

    National Chairman of NALEO (National Association of Latino Elected Officials)

Why Clients Trust Us

Trusted Community Advocate
With decades of service as West Hollywood’s mayor and a deep connection to the LGBTQ+ and Latino communities, John Duran understands the unique challenges his clients face. He fights not just as an attorney but as a trusted neighbor and advocate.
Honest, Straightforward Counsel
John doesn’t promise “get out of jail free” cards. He lays out the facts honestly and helps clients navigate tough situations with clear expectations, grounded strategy, and unwavering support.
Defense From Someone Who’s Been There
With 29 years sober and a personal understanding of addiction struggles, John connects with clients on a deeper level. His legal defense is informed by empathy, personal experience, and a commitment to rehabilitation over punishment.
John Duran with Kamala Harris

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When you’re facing charges, you need someone who understands what’s at stake. John Duran offers a free consultation to listen, guide, and fight for the best outcome with 37 years of legal experience behind him.

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Recognition & Impact

Read recent updates and highlights featuring Attorney John Duran’s legal work, community involvement, and insights on criminal defense.

2020

20 Years of Service in West Hollywood

Recognition from the City of West Hollywood for 20 years of service from 2000-2020 as Councilmember and Mayor of the City of West Hollywood.

City of West Hollywood
2014

International HIV Prevention Recognition

Presented with recognition from Israel for working on joint efforts on HIV prevention in US and Israel.

State of Israel
2018

Dedication to Human and Civil Rights

Presented with award from Equality Armenia for dedication to human and civil rights with Armenian community.

Equality Armenia
2010

Hall of Fame Induction

Inducted to the Hall of Fame of Western University College of Law for an exemplary legal career and outstanding community service.

Western University College of Law
2014

Service to the Latino Community

La Cada award for outstanding service to the Latino community of Greater Los Angeles.

La Cada
2009

Lifetime Achievement in Marriage Equality

Lifetime Achievement Award from Equality California for legal/political service to secure marriage equality in California.

Equality California
2015

National Service Award

National Service award from NALEO (National Association of Latino Elected Officials).

NALEO
2012

Securing Permanent Location for West Hollywood Alcohol and Drug Center

Honored by the California State Assembly and Assemblywoman Betsy Butler for finding a permanent location for the West Hollywood Alcohol and Drug Center serving over 10,000 alcoholics and addicts monthly to prevent drunk driving, addiction and homelessness in the West Hollywood community.

California State Assembly
John Duran

About the Firm

Duran Law Group is built on a simple belief: everyone deserves a strong defense. Based in West Hollywood ON THE WORLD FAMOUS SUNSET STRIP, the firm serves clients throughout Los Angeles and beyond, focusing on criminal law matters including DUIs, drug offenses, domestic violence, sex crimes, and white-collar cases.

While John Duran is well-known for his years of public service and activism, his roots are in the courtroom. He has dedicated his legal career to standing up for people when they need it most—whether they’re facing addiction-related charges, fighting false allegations, or navigating life-altering felony accusations. At Duran Law Group, every client is treated with dignity, honesty, and respect.

Notable Case Results

Over nearly four decades, John Duran has taken on precedent-setting cases that shaped California law and protected the rights of countless individuals. His record includes:

1987–2000

People v. John Does

Represented hundreds of men arrested and charged with lewd conduct by undercover police officers. Worked with a team of lawyers to challenge discriminatory enforcement.

Outcome: Secured numerous jury trial victories and helped reform Los Angeles lewd conduct enforcement, including the elimination of undercover policing in such cases.

1996

People v. Green

Represented Mr. Green in the first felony assisted suicide prosecution in over 100 years.

Featured in the Los Angeles Times

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Outcome: All charges dismissed before trial, enabling Mr. Green to secure his inheritance.

1998

Clean Needles Now

Represented Ms. Edgington and her volunteers distributing clean needles to prevent the spread of HIV. A property owner sought to evict the program.

medical_services

Outcome: Prevented eviction of the Needle Exchange program; no criminal charges were filed.

1989

People v. Orange County Visibility League Protestors

Defended 8 protestors arrested while exercising their First Amendment rights against Orange County politicians.

Featured in the Los Angeles Times

campaign

Outcome: Charges dismissed after completion of trial.

1997

People v. Perkins

Represented Mr. Perkins in California’s first medicinal marijuana case after voters approved Proposition 215.

Featured in the Los Angeles Times

cannabis

Outcome: All charges dismissed.

2025

People v. Yedinak

Represented defendant in appeal before the California Court of Appeals. Case established published precedent affirming equal bail rights.

Outcome: Court recognized that all defendants have the right to post bail regardless of income level.

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Get the Legal Help You Deserve in West Hollywood

If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime, your next step is critical. Attorney John Duran has the experience, perspective, and determination to guide you through this moment and fight for your future. With thousands of cases behind him and a career devoted to protecting people in their toughest hours, John understands both the stakes and the struggles his clients face.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out today and put a proven advocate in your corner.