20 Years of Service in West Hollywood
Recognition from the City of West Hollywood for 20 years of service from 2000-2020 as Councilmember and Mayor of the City of West Hollywood.
A trusted advocate with {experience_years} years of experience, deep local ties, and a commitment to protecting your future.
Defending clients with strategies built on decades of courtroom experience.
For two decades, John Duran served as Mayor and Councilmember in West Hollywood, where he became one of the city’s most recognizable leaders. But long before—and long after—his time in office, John has been a trial lawyer. With 37 years of courtroom experience, he’s defended thousands of clients across Southern California in cases ranging from DUIs and drug offenses to high-profile constitutional challenges.
Known for his candor and compassion, John doesn’t promise miracles—he promises to fight for the best possible outcome, drawing on decades of legal skill and a deep understanding of what his clients are going through. Whether it’s a first-time mistake, false accusation, or the most serious of charges, John brings relentless advocacy and practical solutions to every case.
Co-facilitator of West Hollywood Alcohol/Drug Recovery Center and preservation of the Log Cabin facility
Co-founder of Equality California and LIFE AIDS Lobby
National Chairman of NALEO (National Association of Latino Elected Officials)
When you’re facing charges, you need someone who understands what’s at stake. John Duran offers a free consultation to listen, guide, and fight for the best outcome with 37 years of legal experience behind him.
Get My Free ConsultationRead recent updates and highlights featuring Attorney John Duran’s legal work, community involvement, and insights on criminal defense.
Recognition from the City of West Hollywood for 20 years of service from 2000-2020 as Councilmember and Mayor of the City of West Hollywood.
Presented with recognition from Israel for working on joint efforts on HIV prevention in US and Israel.
Presented with award from Equality Armenia for dedication to human and civil rights with Armenian community.
Inducted to the Hall of Fame of Western University College of Law for an exemplary legal career and outstanding community service.
La Cada award for outstanding service to the Latino community of Greater Los Angeles.
Lifetime Achievement Award from Equality California for legal/political service to secure marriage equality in California.
National Service award from NALEO (National Association of Latino Elected Officials).
Honored by the California State Assembly and Assemblywoman Betsy Butler for finding a permanent location for the West Hollywood Alcohol and Drug Center serving over 10,000 alcoholics and addicts monthly to prevent drunk driving, addiction and homelessness in the West Hollywood community.
Duran Law Group is built on a simple belief: everyone deserves a strong defense. Based in West Hollywood ON THE WORLD FAMOUS SUNSET STRIP, the firm serves clients throughout Los Angeles and beyond, focusing on criminal law matters including DUIs, drug offenses, domestic violence, sex crimes, and white-collar cases.
While John Duran is well-known for his years of public service and activism, his roots are in the courtroom. He has dedicated his legal career to standing up for people when they need it most—whether they’re facing addiction-related charges, fighting false allegations, or navigating life-altering felony accusations. At Duran Law Group, every client is treated with dignity, honesty, and respect.
Over nearly four decades, John Duran has taken on precedent-setting cases that shaped California law and protected the rights of countless individuals. His record includes:
Represented hundreds of men arrested and charged with lewd conduct by undercover police officers. Worked with a team of lawyers to challenge discriminatory enforcement.
Outcome: Secured numerous jury trial victories and helped reform Los Angeles lewd conduct enforcement, including the elimination of undercover policing in such cases.
Represented Mr. Green in the first felony assisted suicide prosecution in over 100 years.
Featured in the Los Angeles Times
Outcome: All charges dismissed before trial, enabling Mr. Green to secure his inheritance.
Represented Ms. Edgington and her volunteers distributing clean needles to prevent the spread of HIV. A property owner sought to evict the program.
Outcome: Prevented eviction of the Needle Exchange program; no criminal charges were filed.
Defended 8 protestors arrested while exercising their First Amendment rights against Orange County politicians.
Featured in the Los Angeles Times
Outcome: Charges dismissed after completion of trial.
Represented Mr. Perkins in California’s first medicinal marijuana case after voters approved Proposition 215.
Featured in the Los Angeles Times
Outcome: All charges dismissed.
Represented defendant in appeal before the California Court of Appeals. Case established published precedent affirming equal bail rights.
Outcome: Court recognized that all defendants have the right to post bail regardless of income level.
If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime, your next step is critical. Attorney John Duran has the experience, perspective, and determination to guide you through this moment and fight for your future. With thousands of cases behind him and a career devoted to protecting people in their toughest hours, John understands both the stakes and the struggles his clients face.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out today and put a proven advocate in your corner.