Micah Schwartzbach

Micah Schwartzbach

Attorney · UC Law San Francisco

Micah Schwartzbach is Nolo’s digital editorial director, overseeing digital editorial content and other aspects of the company’s publishing operation. He considers himself fortunate to work with the talented and experienced team of Nolo editors.

Education. Micah earned his B.A. from UC Davis, where he graduated with highest honors, and his J.D. from UC Law San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings), where he graduated cum laude. He received several academic awards from both institutions, among them a distinction for excellence in the study of evidence law. 

Law practice. Before coming to Nolo, Micah practiced criminal defense law. In his early career, he represented clients throughout Northern California in various stages of criminal cases as part of a small law practice. In his next opportunity, his work centered on writing, editing, and research. One of his most rewarding moments was overcoming a government argument against financial compensation for an innocent man who spent nearly nine years in prison.

Nolo. Micah’s relationship with Nolo began in 2012, when he started to contribute articles to the renowned publishing company as a freelance writer. He joined the staff the next year as a Legal Editor, creating articles and editing books across areas of law. Beyond the websites in the Nolo family, Micah’s analysis has appeared on HowStuffWorks and in the Daily Journal, a periodical for attorneys.

Like other team members, Micah finds tremendous meaning in spreading understanding of and access to the legal system.

Articles By Micah Schwartzbach

What Happens at a Bail Hearing?
Learn what happens at a bail hearing, what evidence is considered, and when a defendant can ask for a bail review.
The Difference Between a Police "Search" and a Police "Frisk"
A search is more extensive than a frisk—but the line can be hard to draw.
What Is a "Pro Se" or "Pro Per" Defendant?
Judges and lawyers typically refer to defendants who represent themselves with the terms pro se or pro per (taken from “in propria persona”).
What Is a Criminal "Complaint"?
An arrest, by itself, doesn’t begin formal criminal proceedings. Rather, the filing of a document in court is required. In most instances in state court, the document is a “complaint.”
What Does the Bill of Rights Do?
The Bill of Rights comprises the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
What Is a Motion to Suppress?
A motion to suppress evidence is a request by a defendant that the judge exclude certain evidence from trial.
What are the elements of a crime?
Each crime has its own set of elements—components that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt in order to establish the defendant’s guilt.
What's the Difference Between an Acquittal and a "Not Guilty" Verdict?
A verdict of not guilty constitutes an acquittal. In other words, to find a defendant not guilty is to acquit.
Miranda Rights: What Happens If the Police Don't Read You Your Rights
Many people believe that if they are arrested and not "read their rights," they can escape punishment. Not true.
Criminal Trespassing Law
Criminal trespass involves being on someone else’s property without permission. But the crime isn’t as simple as just being where you’re not supposed to.