Chance Oberstein - California Criminal Defense Attorney
Experienced Sex Crimes & Post-Conviction Relief Lawyer
Chance “Xcaliber” Oberstein is a highly skilled criminal defense attorney and founder of the Law Office of Chance Oberstein, established in 2011. His practice is focused on sex crimes and post-conviction relief, providing aggressive, result-driven representation to clients across the State of California.
In addition to his legal work, Mr. Oberstein is a passionate advocate for social justice and constitutional rights. He is a frequent legal commentator on the weekly RegistryMatters podcast, where he provides insight into complex legal issues affecting those on the sex offense registry.
He is also the former President of the Alliance for Constitutional Sex Offense Laws (ACSOL), underscoring his long-standing commitment to defending the rights of individuals facing some of the most stigmatized and challenging charges in the criminal justice system.
We represent clients for:
Sex Offender Registry Removals - New California laws make sex offender registry removals a real possibility for many registrants. Our office can help you navigate the complexities of the registry removal petitioning process.
Sex crimes — Sentences for sexual offenses can carry lifelong consequences. Our law office works to ensure that your side of the story is told and that your rights are protected.
Post-Conviction Relief — Reduce a felony to a misdemeanor, probation violations, early termination of probation, Certificates of Rehabilitation and more. Our office fights tirelessly to help clients eliminate or reduce past criminal charges or get those records sealed.
Violent crimes — We build self-defense arguments and other strong legal responses for those charged with homicide, assault, rape and other violent crimes.
Drug violations — Charges of trafficking, distributing or possessing a controlled substance can result in heavy fines and extended time in jail. Our goal is to eliminate or minimize the charges against you.
Theft — During negotiations with prosecutors and in court, you can rely on attorney Chance Oberstein to skillfully respond to larceny, robbery and other theft charges.
Personal Background & Inspiration
Born and raised in East Los Angeles, Mr. Oberstein developed a passion for law from a young age. Much of his inspiration came from his grandfather who ran away from his home in New York at the age of 14, joined the U.S. Calvary and protected border towns being raided during the Mexican Revolution. This man of action who did right by people, in family, business and community motivated Mr. Oberstein to help others.
Inspired by his grandfather, Mr. Oberstein actively participated in the YMCA, Indian Guides and Boy Scouts of America. He also engaged in football and track, and achieved a first-degree black belt from Solomon Kaihewalu’s Academy of Self Defense. Known for his competitive spirit, he trained individuals in self-defense, including women, children, LAPD police academy recruits, and military personnel.
Professional Background & Education
Chance Oberstein then pursued his career in law, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Social Ecology, with a Specialization in Criminology, Law and Society, through the University of California Irvine, graduating Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa. As an undergraduate, Mr. Oberstein was the recipient of the President’s Undergraduate Research Fellowship and the University Community Service Award. Upon graduation, he was recognized for Outstanding Contribution, Social Ecology Program, Exceptional Achievements in Field Study, Excellence in Research, and Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award.
He then completed a Doctor of Jurisprudence at the University of California Davis. Including work as a research assistant for Professor Floyd F. Feeney pursuing criminal justice reform and policy advocacy. He also served as the Class Representative to the Educational Policy Committee. Mr. Oberstein worked as an attorney for the Los Angeles Public Defender's Office trying cases on behalf of indigent clients for the majority of the 1990s. Then in his private practice, attorney Chance Oberstein honed his legal skills in complex case preparation, litigation and post-conviction relief.
Throughout his academic and professional career, Mr. Oberstein has made significant contributions to his community and the practice of law. He was included in the 1979 volume of The U.S. Jaycees Outstanding Young Men of America, and the 75th Edition of Who’s Who in America, in 2022. He has also been recognized for his advocacy and leadership by the Alliance for Constitutional Sex Offense Laws (ACSOL) and is the recipient of the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award.
Attorney Chance Oberstein is widely respected by clients for his professionalism and expertise. You can read testimonials praising his exceptional outcomes on Google and AVVO Reviews. With a strong record of excellence and a commitment to serving others, Mr. Oberstein exemplifies the principles of expertise, compassion, and trustworthiness in addressing his client’s legal needs and achieving their goals.
Education
LAW SCHOOL
UC Davis School of Law
Class of 1990, Juris Doctor
UNIVERSITY
University of California Irvine, Class of 1986, B.A.
Awards & Recognition
AVVO
Clients' Choice Awards 2013 to 2025American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
10 Best Criminal Defense Attorneys for Client Satisfaction in the State of California 2018 – 2025America’s Best Advocates
Top 10 Attorney 2022American Trial Academy
Top Tier Lawyer 2021American Association of Attorney Advocates
Top-Ranking Attorney 2020 – 2021Attorney & Practice Magazine
Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2020 – 2021Best of the Best Attorneys
Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2020 – 2021
Chance X. Oberstein
With over three decades of experience in criminal defense, sex crime cases, and post-conviction relief, Chance Oberstein has the knowledge and dedication to fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Take the first step toward protecting your future.