The metal complexes with the derivatives of the cinnamic acid have been structurally characterized. The geometry of metal-ligand interaction has been determined by X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy. The Co(II) complex with 4-methoxycinnamic acid has the octahedral geometry with four carboxylate groups of cinnamate anions and two water molecules in the coordination sphere. Moreover, the Cu(II) complex with 4-nitrocinnamic acid has been synthesized and characterized. In this compound, a square geometry around metal cation is formed by the carboxylate groups from two monodentate ligands and two water molecules.