Criminal Defense
Violent Crimes, Domestic Violence, Sex Offenses, Drug Charges, #metoo Allegations
CRIMINAL DEFENSE FOR ATHLETES
For professional and elite athletes, a criminal allegation is never “just” a legal matter—it is a threat to reputation, livelihood, endorsements, eligibility, and legacy. Media scrutiny is instant, leagues and governing bodies move fast, and even unproven allegations can derail a career overnight.
At The Players Firm (TPF), we provide a wholistic, discreet, strategic, and aggressive defense to state and federal charges from investigation through trial. Our representation is tailored to the unique realities of athletes. For over two decades, our Founder, Sara Azari has represented high profile medial players and athletes in state and federal courts from coast to coast. TPF provides criminal defense at every stage—from confidential investigations and pre-charge advocacy to trial, appeal, and post-resolution reputation management. Just as importantly, we understand how criminal matters intersect with league discipline, team contracts, sponsorships, and parallel civil or administrative proceedings, and we defend our clients with that broader ecosystem in mind.
TPF's criminal defense practice includes representation of athletes in high-stakes matters, including the following.
Violent Crimes
Strategic Defense of Misdemeanor and Serious Felony Allegations
Allegations of violent conduct can end a career before the facts are tested. We provide immediate, high-level defense against misdemeanor and felony violent-crime accusations, including assault, battery, and related offenses. Our approach is fast, strategic, and proactive—focused on protecting liberty while minimizing professional and reputational fallout. From the moment an allegation surfaces, we control the narrative, challenge the evidence, and position our clients to preserve both their freedom and their future in sport.
Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders
Rapid Response When Allegations Threaten Eligibility and Employment
Domestic-violence allegations and restraining-order proceedings move quickly—and the consequences extend far beyond the courtroom. We respond immediately to TROs and DV claims with a focus on due process, evidentiary credibility, and procedural fairness. Our team understands how these matters intersect with league policies, team discipline, sponsorships, and public perception. We work aggressively to limit collateral damage, challenge exaggerated or false claims, and protect athletes from cascading professional consequences.
Sex Crimes
Discreet, Sophisticated Defense in High-Stakes Allegations
Sex-crime allegations against athletes are far too common and uniquely damaging—often triggering public judgment, media exposure, and league action before any facts are established. We provide experienced, precision-driven defense in the most sensitive cases, where discretion and strategy are paramount. Our representation emphasizes thorough investigation, careful evidentiary analysis, and controlled communication to protect both legal rights and reputation. These cases demand more than legal knowledge—they require judgment, experience, and restraint.
Defense of Civil Lawsuits for Sex-Related Misconduct
Coordinated Strategy Across Civil, Criminal, and League Exposure
Civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault, harassment, or coercion are frequently filed alongside—or in anticipation of—criminal investigations. We defend athletes in parallel civil actions with a coordinated strategy designed to protect against admissions, discovery traps, and reputational harm. Our approach integrates civil defense with criminal strategy and league considerations, ensuring that each move in one forum does not jeopardize the client in another.
Mediation & Settlement of Sexual-Abuse and #MeToo Allegations
Resolving Claims While Preserving Privacy and Control
Not every case belongs in a courtroom. When appropriate, we conduct targeted investigations and pursue discreet resolution through mediation or negotiated settlement. Our goal is to protect privacy, control exposure, and manage financial and reputational risk without unnecessary escalation. We approach resolution from a position of strength—armed with facts, leverage, and a clear understanding of what is truly at stake for the athlete’s career and legacy.
Drug Crimes
Defense of Charges with League, Regulatory, and Career Implications
We represent athletes facing state and federal drug charges involving illegal narcotics, controlled substances, prescription medication issues, and performance-enhancing drugs. These cases often implicate league rules, testing protocols, and regulatory bodies in addition to criminal law. Our defense accounts for all layers of exposure, coordinating legal strategy with the realities of professional discipline, eligibility, and public scrutiny.