Grech, Packer & Hanks

We Win The Toughest Cases

At the Law Offices of Grech, Packer & Hanks, our attorneys have the legal expertise, intellectual excellence, and fearlessness to defend you.

Award Winning Attorneys Fighting For You

The threat of going to jail on a serious criminal charge is overwhelming to the accused and their families. If you or a loved one has been accused of a criminal offense, it is crucial that you have legal representation that is committed to your case and has a proven record in criminal court.

Paul Grech Jr.

Mr. Grech has been named to the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, designated a Trial Master by the American Inns of Court, given a Superb rating by AVVO and received numerous accolades from fellow attorneys and former clients.

Trenton C. Packer​

Trent has handled thousands of criminal cases in California appellate and trial courts and has tried numerous cases to verdict in both State and Federal courts throughout California.

Joshua Hanks​

Josh is a true Riverside native, born and raised. Trying cases is literally in his blood, going back generations! Both Josh’s father and grandfather were Superior Court judges.

We Are An Award-Winning law Firm

Great Defense Starts With Experience

At our firm, we are proud to help our clients with comprehensive and dynamic legal assistance that can be counted on in even the most daunting of situations. By getting the involvement of a Riverside criminal defense attorney from our legal team, you will not need to face the future alone. We know what is on the line and we know the importance of providing reliable assistance when it is needed most.

Southern California's Premier Criminal Defense & Civil Rights Attorneys

At Grech, Packer and Hanks, we bring over 75 years of combined legal experience to every case we handle. As one of the most respected law firms in Southern California, we’ve built our reputation through results-driven advocacy in both criminal defense and civil rights litigation. With over 200 jury trials behind us, our award-winning attorneys are known for their strategic approach, trial skills, and client-centered service. Whether you’re facing criminal charges or seeking justice after a civil rights violation, we’re here to fight for you.

Proven Results in Criminal Defense
From DUI and drug offenses to violent crimes, sex crimes, and white-collar investigations, our attorneys have successfully defended clients in some of the most complex and high-stakes cases in California. We understand the pressure and uncertainty that come with criminal charges, which is why we take a proactive and aggressive approach—protecting your rights, challenging the evidence, and working relentlessly for reduced charges, dismissals, or acquittals.
Standing Up for Civil Rights
Our civil rights practice focuses on holding public institutions accountable when they abuse their power. We represent individuals whose rights have been violated by law enforcement, including cases involving excessive force, false arrest, jail neglect, and other government misconduct. If your civil liberties have been compromised, our firm will stand with you to pursue justice and meaningful change.
Award-Winning. Client-Focused. Courtroom-Tested.
What sets us apart is not just our courtroom success, but our commitment to the people we represent. Every case is approached with the care, strategy, and intensity it deserves. Our firm has earned recognition for excellence, but we measure success by the lives we protect and the justice we help secure. When your freedom or your future is on the line, you can count on Grech, Packer and Hanks to deliver.

Recent Court Victories

Murder

On May 7, 2024, Attorneys Joshua Hanks and Paul Grech won an acquittal on a Special Circumstance murder case. The client was facing life without the possibility for parole and was eligible for the death penalty. He was denied bail and in custody the entire time awaiting trial. The client is now home with his wife and family.

S.D. et al. v. City of Hemet (2024)

The Law Offices of Grech, Packer and Hanks recently won a $6,750,000 settlement for the family of a man who was shot and killed by police while in his own backyard.

Domestic violence​

The District Attorney charged the defendant with numerous felony domestic violence counts. After successfully obtaining an order for the defendant’s release on his own recognizance, the jury acquitted the defendant of a number of felony counts and a mistrial was declared as to the others.

Client Testimonials

The threat of going to jail on a serious criminal charge is overwhelming to the accused and their families. If you or a loved one has been accused of a criminal offense, it is crucial that you have legal representation that is committed to your case and has a proven record in criminal court.

Riverside Criminal Defense Lawyer

Former prosecutors now fighting for you

The threat of going to jail on a serious criminal charge is overwhelming to the accused and their families. If you or a loved one has been accused of a criminal offense, it is crucial that you have legal representation that is committed to your case and has a proven record in criminal court. Grech, Packer & Hanks is recognized as an accomplished criminal defense law firm with an impressive record throughout the courts in the Riverside area.

With experience working in the District Attorney’s office in Riverside, Attorney Paul Grech has worked within the legal system on both sides of the bench, allowing a distinct insight into how to present a case with the goal of a favorable outcome for you.

Our Riverside criminal lawyers handle criminal cases including DUI, arson, assault & battery, domestic violence, drug crimes, federal crimes, felony crimes, internet crimes, juvenile crimes, kidnapping, murder & manslaughter, sex crimes, theft crimes, violent crimes, and white collar crimes.

Certified defense attorneys in Riverside

Our firm’s founder, Attorney Paul Grech, is a certified Specialist in Criminal Law, a designation that few defense teams in the state can claim.

Attorney Grech received the prestigious honor of being selected for inclusion in the list of 2013 Southern California Super Lawyers®. Attorney Grech has been selected as a Super Lawyer each year since. A lawyer can only be selected for this impressive list after a rigorous background check and thorough peer review.

We have an unmatched commitment to defending our clients, and are nationally ranked AV by Martindale-Hubbell®. This means we are nationally recognized as “Preeminent” in the field of criminal law.

Attorney Grech has also been included in the list of Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers. We are quite simply, the best. In 2019, in a ceremony in London, England, Attorney Grech was inducted into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. The Academy is a group of truly elite trial lawyers consisting of the very best trial advocates in the free world. 

What does a criminal defense attorney do?

Criminal defense attorneys, play a pivotal role in the legal landscape. Charged with upholding the fundamental principle that every person is innocent until proven guilty, they navigate the complex realm of criminal law to protect the rights and freedoms of their clients. Below are is a brief outline of what a criminal defense attorney does.

Legal counsel and advocate

At its core, the role of a criminal defense attorney is to serve as both a legal counselor and a fierce advocate. They are tasked with guiding their clients through the intricacies of the legal system, explaining their rights, options, and the potential consequences of their actions. Throughout the process, they advocate for their clients best interest.

Investigation and case analysis
Much like investigative sleuths, criminal defense attorneys delve into every nook and cranny of their clients’ cases. They scrutinize evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts, all in the pursuit of the truth. This painstaking investigation is essential for constructing a solid defense strategy, highlighting inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case, and ensuring that their clients’ rights are protected.
Strategic planning
A defense attorney meticulously analyzes the prosecution’s case, identifying its strengths and weaknesses. They discern legal intricacies, technicalities, or arguments that could tip the scales in their clients’ favor. With this information in hand, they craft a unique and compelling defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of each case.
Negotiation and plea bargaining
In many criminal cases, the defense attorney engages in negotiations with the prosecution to secure plea bargains or settlements. This may involve reducing charges, obtaining lighter sentences, or identifying alternative resolutions that mitigate the consequences for their clients. These negotiations require finesse and an intimate understanding of the legal landscape.
Courtroom representation
In the event a case goes to court, an attorney will present their clients’ case with skill, cross-examine witnesses, and deliver compelling legal arguments. Their ability to think on their feet, their eloquence, and their mastery of the law are essential for challenging the prosecution’s evidence and persuading judges and juries.
Trial and verdicts
In cases that proceed to trial, the defense attorney stands as the last line of defense. They choose juries, present their clients’ defense, and vigorously advocate for acquittal. Their courtroom acumen, mastery of evidence, and persuasive skills are crucial in determining the trial’s outcome.
Sentencing advocacy
If a client is convicted, the defense attorney’s work continues during the sentencing phase. They present mitigating factors, character references, and compelling arguments in a bid to influence the judge’s sentencing decision. Their goal is to secure a fair and just outcome, taking into account all relevant factors.
Appeals and post-conviction relief
When necessary, defense attorneys file appeals to challenge legal errors that may have occurred during the trial or sentencing. They also explore avenues for post-conviction relief, such as ineffective counsel assistance, newly discovered evidence, or constitutional violations.

Riverside Criminal Defense Lawyer

Investigation and case analysis
Our experienced civil rights attorneys and investigators work tirelessly to build the best case possible.
Government claims
Our experienced attorneys and staff understand the intricacies of the government claims process and will ensure your claim is properly protected.
Most civil rights representation on contingency basis
In most cases, you do not pay anything unless or until we successfully recover money for you. You don’t pay until we win. Most civil rights representation on contingency basis
Settlement negotiations
We have successfully negotiated tens of millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.
Courtroom advocacy

Our attorneys bring over 100 years of courtroom experience to each of our cases.

Riverside civil rights lawyer.

Investigation and case analysis
Our experienced civil rights attorneys and investigators work tirelessly to build the best case possible.
Government claims
Our experienced attorneys and staff understand the intricacies of the government claims process and will ensure your claim is properly protected.
Most civil rights representation on contingency basis
In most cases, you do not pay anything unless or until we successfully recover money for you. You don’t pay until we win. Most civil rights representation on contingency basis
Settlement negotiations

We have successfully negotiated tens of millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.

Courtroom advocacy

Our attorneys bring over 100 years of courtroom experience to each of our cases.

How We Can Help You

Every case is different, and every client deserves a legal team that takes their situation seriously. At Grech, Packer and Hanks, we take the time to understand your case, build a strategy, and protect your rights from start to finish. Our work goes far beyond showing up in court.

We conduct thorough investigations, challenge weak or unlawful evidence, negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, and represent you at every stage—whether it’s arraignment, trial, or appeal. In civil rights cases, we pursue justice by filing lawsuits, demanding accountability from public agencies, and working to secure financial compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.

In every matter, our priority is simple: protect your future, assert your rights, and achieve the best possible outcome.

Schedule your free consultation now.

If you have been accused of a criminal offense, our team can offer honest, thoughtful and expert advice to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.