About John Cady
John Cady Kiyonaga is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in Alexandria, Virginia. With over 40 years of experience, he has built a robust practice that covers many criminal cases. His expertise ranges from capital murder to complex fraud, demonstrating his versatility and understanding of the law. Fluent in Spanish, Mr. Kiyonaga is equipped to serve clients, ensuring effective communication and representation. He earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Columbia Law School in 1984, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous legal training. Before obtaining his J.D., Mr. Kiyonaga completed a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) at Georgetown University Law Center in 1974, followed by a Master of Science in Journalism (M.S.J.) from Columbia Journalism School in 1978.
This unique educational background equips him with strong analytical and communication skills, essential for effective legal advocacy. In 1984, he founded the Law Office of John C. Kiyonaga, P.C., located at 600 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. His practice areas encompass criminal appeals, drug crimes, expungement, fraud, gun crimes, internet crimes, sex crimes, theft, and violent crimes—reflecting his comprehensive approach to criminal defense. Mr. Kiyonaga is admitted to practice in Virginia, New York, and Washington, expanding his reach and ability to assist clients across multiple jurisdictions. He is an active member of the Virginia State Bar, the Washington State Bar Association, and the New York State Bar Association. His New York State Bar number is 1935840.
Throughout his career, he has conducted over three dozen jury trials and has argued numerous federal and state appeals. Notably, he successfully petitioned the United States Supreme Court for a hearing, challenging convictions in both Virginia and the District of Columbia. This achievement shows his commitment to justice and his skill in navigating complex legal challenges. Prior to establishing his own practice, Mr. Kiyonaga worked working with the Wall Street law firm of Brown & Wood and serving as a military prosecutor. His background in these esteemed positions has enriched his legal acumen and provided him with a strong foundation in criminal law. In recognition of his high ethical standards and professional ability, he has received an AV (Preeminent) rating from Martindale-Hubbell. In November 2025, the Circuit Court for the City of Alexandria dismissed charges of misconduct against him, further solidifying his reputation in the legal community.
Mr. Kiyonaga has received positive client reviews, boasting a 4.7 out of 5 rating on Avvo based on 13 reviews. This feedback reflects his dedication to client satisfaction and effective representation. A lifelong resident of Fairfax County, he is also a member of the George Mason American Inn of Court, where he engages with fellow legal professionals to promote excellence in the practice of law. Through his experience and commitment to his clients, John Cady Kiyonaga continues to make a significant impact in the field of criminal defense.
