Peter S. Waite

I defend adults charged with criminal offenses in state court.

With 38 years of criminal law experience as a deputy district attorney, I am now dedicated to providing the best defense in Santa Clara County.  I know that one thing you do not want is to face criminal charges.  If you are charged you should not do it alone, you should have your own attorney by your side.  You should have someone who can explain the charges, your defenses, the court consequences and how the justice system works.  There will be a professional prosecution team against you, not to mention the court system itself.  I have worked with the judges, the DAs and the police for 38 years.  I will commit to presenting your side, fighting for your rights and ensuring that you receive fair treatment.  I will handle your case with the expertise it deserves.  I defend adults charged with criminal offenses in state court and cases involving restraining orders.

Professional Experience

Civil research attorney for the Santa Clara Superior civil court, 1981-1982.

Attorney at Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel, defending people who were sued in civil court, 1982-1985.

As a deputy district attorney from 1985 to 2023, I tried over 150 jury trials and handled thousands of other proceedings, including settlements, court trials, motions and preliminary hearings.  My cases included the prosecution of police officers, homicides, drugs, DUIs, domestic violence, sexual assaults, mental health and major fraud, among many others.  Both felonies and misdemeanors.

Practice Areas

• Criminal Defense
• Cases Involving Restraining Orders