Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Attorneys


Attorneys Who Are On Your Side

A Dedicated Legal Team Ready to Serve You

Many people become frustrated with the legal system, because it tends to be stacked against them. Whether they are dealing with a serious personal injury claim or criminal accusation, they don’t feel like they have anyone on their side.

We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your legal concerns. From our law office in Newport Beach, our lawyers represent clients throughout Southern California, including Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

What Sets Us Apart

Clear Communication

We sit down with you to understand your concerns and questions. We will come up with an individualized plan and strategy for you.

Tenacious Advocacy

We pride ourselves on our ability to take on any obstacles that may come your way. We will fearlessly advocate on your behalf.

Courtroom Experience

As former public defenders, we have the knowledge needed to handle the most complex criminal and personal injury cases.

A car accident, a fall or another serious accident can leave you with costly medical bills, a long and painful recovery, and the possibility of permanent impairment. Insurance companies will do almost anything to avoid paying you the fair compensation you are due. We are experienced criminal law and personal injury trial lawyers who will protect your interests at every stage of the civil justice system. We will deal with the insurance company so you can concentrate on your health and your family.

The criminal justice system is supposed to presume that you are innocent. Unfortunately, it rarely works that way. Once you are accused of a crime, the system is geared to convict you. The police and the prosecutor are not on your side. Our attorneys are. We defend people charged with all types of criminal and serious traffic offenses, including DUI, drug charges, domestic violence and assault charges. We know how damaging a criminal conviction can be to your life. We are attorneys who will always fight for you.

Meet the Team

  • Partner

  • Partner

    Chi Darling is co-founder of Johnston and Darling, APC. She is an attorney that is compassionate and attentive to details. She is also focused and committed to providing legal representation that produces the best results for her clients.

    Chi attended the University of Southern California, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Policy and Management. She also graduated as the class valedictorian from the School of Public Policy in 2002. In 2007, she received her Juris Doctor Degree in Law from Pepperdine University School of Law. While at Pepperdine, Chi worked as a judicial law clerk and clerked with the Law Offices of Los Angeles County Public Defender. Chi has been admitted to practice law in California and Massachusetts.

    After her admission to the State Bar of California, Chi dedicated her legal career to the office of the Orange County Public Defender. She successfully represented clients with broad ranging criminal charges. From traffic infractions to serious felony matters, Chi’s priority was always providing effective legal representation with compassion and understanding. Subsequent to her time with the Orange County Public Defender’s Office, Chi expanded her legal knowledge and professional experience in the civil arena with law firms specializing in recovery for healthcare providers and a variety of personal injury matters.

    Chi believes in a personal and professional life of service to the community. She has dedicated her time to different organizations such as the Orange County Rescue Mission, Share Our Selves, Union Rescue Mission and The Salvation Army.

Areas of Practice

Personal Injury

We’ll help you get the compensation you need for auto accidents, slip-and-falls, and other personal injury matters.

Auto Accidents

With more than 20 years of combined experience, we are here to protect your rights after an auto accident.

Criminal Defense

We defend people charged with drug possession, domestic violence, DUI, and other criminal offenses. We help clients with expungement, probation termination, felony reduction and arrest record sealing.

Client Testimonials

Know Your Rights


Get a free initial consultation today by sending us a message or calling us at (949) 490-1589.