Meet Jim
Jim Tanizaki is a conscientious, committed and tenacious attorney with an unparalleled background in criminal law developed in his 33 year career in the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. His breadth of prosecutorial experience—from elite homicide prosecutor to the #2 position in the OCDA’s office—gives Jim a unique skill-set and knowledge on the criminal law process.
During his tenure at the OCDA’s office, Jim had very significant trial experience and prosecuted many of the agency’s most high profile cases. In addition, as Chief Assistant District Attorney, Jim oversaw the entire OCDA operations on a daily basis—including 300 prosecutors, 200 investigative staff, 350 support personnel and a budget of approximately $160 million.
Jim also chaired the DA’s Special Circumstances Committee, where death penalty eligible cases were evaluated to determine whether capital punishment would be sought.
Since 1999, Jim has been Adjunct Professor of Law at Whittier Law School teaching Criminal Trial Advocacy. Many of his students have become prosecutors, public defenders and civil litigators. He has also been elected to the Board of Directors for the statewide California District Attorney’s Association (CDAA) and is former President of the Orange County Japanese Lawyers Association.
Now, Jim is dedicated to providing the best defense possible for individuals accused of various criminal offenses.
Firm Overview
As your defense attorney, Jim Tanizaki will be your advocate to guide you through the entire legal process and make sure your rights have not been violated.
He will conscientiously review all the facts of your case (such as evidence, police reports, past cases and witness statements) to help you know all of your options and the best course of action.
In addition, Jim will strategize to determine the best defense for your case. Plus, if your case goes to court and you are asked to testify, Jim will prepare you so you can give credible statements that will help your case.
Jim will advise you through the whole legal process and will work with you to achieve the best outcome for you.
Areas of Responsibility
CHIEF ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY
As the Chief Assistant District Attorney at the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Jim Tanizaki was second in command and supervised all prosecutorial functions. This included oversight over the work of the approximately 300 prosecutors and 200 investigative personnel. On a regular basis, he reviewed and evaluated many of the high profile and high impact cases as well as other cases with unique issues or otherwise requiring discussion.