About Michael R. Kilts
Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney | Serious & Violent Felonies |
Sex Crimes | Federal Cases | Juvenile Defense
Michael R. Kilts is the founder of Kilts & Davis, where he focuses exclusively on criminal defense
and the protection of his clients’ constitutional rights. With
more than 45 years of experience practicing criminal law,
Mr. Kilts is widely regarded as one of the most
experienced, seasoned, and battle-tested defense
attorneys in Southern California.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Mr. Kilts has devoted his
entire professional career to the Southern California legal
community. He is a graduate of Loyola Law School, where
he developed the foundation for what would become a
lifelong commitment to criminal law.
Before entering private practice, Mr. Kilts served as a
Deputy District Attorney with the Los Angeles County
District Attorney's Office. In that role, he prosecuted a wide
range of criminal cases and gained invaluable insight into
how prosecutors evaluate, prepare, and try cases. Today,
he puts that experience to work for his
clients—anticipating prosecutorial strategies, identifying
weaknesses in the government’s case, and building
powerful, strategic defenses designed to achieve the best
possible outcomes.
For more than four decades, Mr. Kilts has handled both
trial and appellate matters, and he represents clients in
both state and federal court. His practice includes complex
and high-stakes matters where experience, preparation,
and courtroom skill are critical. He is known for his
meticulous knowledge of criminal law and procedure, as
well as his ability to navigate the most challenging legal
situations with confidence and precision.
In addition to his extensive felony experience, Mr. Kilts
previously served as a juvenile case panel member,
reflecting his depth of experience in juvenile defense
matters and his understanding of the unique issues that
arise in those cases.
Clients consistently praise Mr. Kilts not only for his deep
knowledge of the law, but also for the way he treats the
people he represents. He is known for his accessibility,
responsiveness, and personal attention. He takes the time
to explain complex legal issues clearly and thoroughly,
never talking down to clients, and ensuring they feel
informed and empowered throughout the process.
With over 45 years devoted exclusively to criminal
defense, Michael R. Kilts brings unmatched experience,
prosecutorial insight, and unwavering dedication to every
case he handles.
Admissions:
Michael R. Kilts is admitted to practice before the following jurisdictions and federal courts:
State Bars:
State of California
Federal Courts
United States District Court, Central District of California
United States District Court, Eastern District of California
United States District Court, Southern District of California
United States District Court, Northern District of California
United States District Court, Eastern District of California
United States District Court, Southern District of California
United States District Court, Northern District of California
At a Glance
- Former Los Angeles County Prosecutor
- 45+ Years of Criminal Defense Experience
- Defended Thousands of Criminal Cases
- Decades of Success in Serious Felony Defense
