Frank R. Santa Maria
Criminal Defense Attorney
Yuma,AZ
Summary
Criminal law litigator with proven track record in navigating complex legal cases. Skilled in legal research, courtroom advocacy, and client consultation. Known for strong team collaboration, adaptability, and achieving favorable outcomes. Effective communicator with strategic mindset and commitment to justice.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Criminal Defense Attorney
Legal Defender of Yuma County
04.2024 - Current
- Represent indigent defendants in all phases of criminal defense in Yuma County Superior Court and Justice Court
- Analyze, research, investigate, and litigate misdemeanor and felony criminal cases to resolution including jury and bench trials
- Manage approximately 60 cases
Assistant Senior Prosecutor
U.S. Navy Region Northwest Detachment Hawaii
06.2022 - 04.2024
- Represent the United States in criminal proceedings before Military Judges
- Prepare felony and misdemeanor cases for disposition
- Provide legal advice to NCIS and military commanders
- Supervise and operate all aspects of the prosecution office including victim's rights program
Prosecutor
U.S. Navy Region Southwest
11.2017 - 06.2022
- Prepare criminal cases for trial through legal research, pleadings, motions, briefs, stipulations, affidavits, plea agreements, and other legal documents
- Present oral arguments advancing the Government's interests, negotiate with opposing counsel, and advise on high profile cases
General Practice Attorney
U.S. Navy
10.2015 - 11.2017
- Draft civil litigation packages for Military Pro Bono Project
- Research and advise clients on consumer law
- Draft work product for familly, property, and estate law cases
Staff Judge Advocate
U.S. Navy Region Mid Atlantic
10.2013 - 10.2015
- Provide legal services to Admirals
Nuclear Technician
U.S. Navy Southwest Region Maintenance Center
07.1999 - 11.2009
- Operate and maintain nuclear propulsion plants for the U.S. Navy
Education
J.D. - Law
Thomas Jefferson School of Law (Summa Cum Laude)
San Diego, CA 01.2010 - 12.2012
Bachelor Of Business - Business
Excelsior College
Albany, NY 01.2008 - 12.2009
Associate of Science - Applied Science - Nuclear Technology
Excelsior College
Albany, NY 05.2001 -
Skills
Courtroom presence
Written communication
Legal analysis
Public speaking
Accomplishments
2016 Navy Legal Assistance Attorney of the Year
2025 State v. Malta, murder acquittal
Certification
Special Victim Investigator and Prosecutor (SVIP) Certified
Timeline
Criminal Defense Attorney
Legal Defender of Yuma County
04.2024 - Current
Assistant Senior Prosecutor
U.S. Navy Region Northwest Detachment Hawaii
06.2022 - 04.2024
Special Victim Investigator and Prosecutor (SVIP) Certified
10-2021
Prosecutor
U.S. Navy Region Southwest
11.2017 - 06.2022
Special Assistant to United States Attorney (Southern District of Mississippi)
09-2016
General Practice Attorney
U.S. Navy
10.2015 - 11.2017
Staff Judge Advocate
U.S. Navy Region Mid Atlantic
10.2013 - 10.2015
J.D. - Law
Thomas Jefferson School of Law (Summa Cum Laude)
01.2010 - 12.2012
Bachelor Of Business - Business
Excelsior College
01.2008 - 12.2009
Associate of Science - Applied Science - Nuclear Technology
Excelsior College
05.2001 -
Nuclear Technician
U.S. Navy Southwest Region Maintenance Center
07.1999 - 11.2009
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