criminal defense attorneys

At Elite Criminal Defense, we offer a Flat Fee pricing model, meaning you’ll know the total cost of your case before you sign anything—with no hidden fees or surprise charges. Once you’re a client, your fee never changes throughout the entire case, regardless of how long it takes or what twists may occur.

If you’re arrested in San Diego:

1. Stay silent – do not answer questions without your lawyer.
2. Request an attorney immediately.
3. Avoid resisting – stay calm and respectful.
4. Call a trusted criminal defense lawyer. Your defense starts at the moment of arrest—anything you say can be used against you.

To find the best criminal defense attorney in San Diego:

• To find the best criminal defense attorney in San Diego:
• Look for experience with your specific charge (e.g., DUI, assault, drug crimes).
• Check state bar certification, reviews, and peer ratings.
• Choose someone who offers clear communication, availability, and trial experience.
• Verify credentials on trusted sites like Avvo, Super Lawyers, and the California Bar. Schedule consultations and ask how they handle similar cases.

Check our “About Us” page and learn what makes Elite Criminal Defense different from other attorneys.

Yes, police can arrest you without a warrant if they witness a crime or have probable cause to believe you committed a felony. However, for most misdemeanors, officers must witness the offense. Warrantless arrests must still meet legal standards and are subject to challenge in court. Always consult a lawyer immediately after an arrest.

Absolutely. Even if you’re innocent, you need a criminal defense attorney to:

• Prevent false charges or wrongful conviction
• Ensure your rights are protected
• Challenge illegally obtained evidence

Innocence is not a defense by itself—you need legal representation to prove it in court.

You should only accept a plea bargain after reviewing it with your attorney. A plea deal may:

• Reduce charges or penalties
• Avoid trial and jail time

But it also means giving up your right to a trial. A criminal defense lawyer can assess if the plea is fair or if you have a stronger case at trial.

San Diego criminal defense attorneys are commonly affiliated with several trusted legal organizations that strengthen their credibility and local expertise:

• San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association (CDBA): A leading local organization for defense attorneys, offering education, advocacy, and community among criminal defense professionals.
• San Diego County Bar Association (SDCBA): Many lawyers join its Criminal Law Section for access to legal updates, networking, and CLE (continuing legal education).
• San Diego County Public Defender’s Office: While primarily government-run, private lawyers often collaborate with public defenders and are familiar with court processes and jail procedures in the region.
• California Western Innocence & Justice Clinic: Some lawyers support this local advocacy group that works to overturn wrongful convictions.

You should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after an arrest, police questioning, or learning that you’re under investigation. Early intervention can help negotiate bail or pretrial release, prevent charges from being filed, and protect your rights during interrogation.

The timeline for resolving a criminal case can vary widely depending on the nature of the charges, the complexity of the evidence, and the court’s schedule. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while others—especially those involving serious felonies or multiple charges—can take over a year.

Factors like plea negotiations, motions to suppress evidence, and trial preparation can all extend the process. At Elite Criminal Defense, we prioritize both efficiency and thoroughness to ensure your case is resolved as favorably and swiftly as possible.

Yes, most criminal charges will appear on background checks—even dismissed or expunged ones in some cases. However:

• Diversion programs may prevent a conviction.
• Expungement or record sealing can help remove or hide past charges

A criminal defense lawyer can guide you through record-clearing options in California.

Police can search without a warrant only under specific conditions:

• You gave consent
• It’s part of a lawful arrest
• There’s probable cause and exigent circumstances
• It involves a vehicle stop or items in plain view

If none of these apply, warrantless searches may be challenged and any evidence may be excluded.