Speak to our Poway criminal defense lawyer today!
Have you been arrested for DUI, drug possession, or domestic battery? A conviction could ruin your life, so you need legal assistance today. Don’t hire just any lawyer. You need an outstanding criminal law attorney in Poway. Call our criminal law attorneys in Poway at Elite Criminal Defense to defend your rights and freedom.
Poway Criminal Defense Guide
Our Services
Our Poway criminal defense lawyers are ready to defend you 24/7. Elite Criminal Defense is renowned in the Poway community for phenomenal case results. Our award-winning attorneys have earned a 4.9 Google rating based on 69 client reviews in the following areas.
Terroristic Threats
A terroristic threats charge means you allegedly threatened someone with harm that would cause serious bodily injury or death. A tenacious terroristic threats lawyer in Poway may argue that the alleged threat wasn’t specific, and other defenses are possible.
Prostitution & Solicitation
Soliciting prostitution in Poway is illegal according to California Penal Code 647(b). You don’t have to complete the alleged sexual acts to receive up to six months in jail. Your attorney for solicitation in Poway may argue a lack of intent or insufficient evidence.
Assault & Battery
A Poway assault and battery charge can destroy your life. Six months in jail minimum is possible, and years in prison are on the table in aggravating circumstances. You should hire an aggressive assault lawyer in Poway with a strong record of case reductions and dismissals.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon
Carrying a concealed weapon in Poway is illegal, and you can receive up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. This charge may result in three years in prison if you have a previous felony conviction. A concealed weapons lawyer in Poway will work mightily in your defense.
First Degree Murder
A charge for first degree murder in Poway isn’t hopeless. The prosecutor must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. First-degree murder lawyers in Poway may argue that you didn’t have malice aforethought, which is required for a conviction. We will fight for a case dismissal or a charge reduction.
Possession with Intent to Sell
Possession of drugs with intent to sell may result in three years in prison and a $20,000 fine. A permanent criminal record will hinder your life for years. A Poway drug lawyer can argue whether you possessed the drugs or intended to sell them. We frequently get these serious charges reduced or dismissed.
Hit and Run
The hit and run penalty for a conviction is up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. You also will receive two points on your driver’s license in California. However, an elite hit-and-run attorney in Poway may argue that the case should be dismissed if you take responsibility for all crash damages.
Forgery
PC 470 states it is illegal to engage in forgery in Poway. Whether you go to jail depends on the money involved, your previous record, and the type of forgery offense. A forgery lawyer in Poway will argue aggressively in your defense. Our forgery defense lawyer will fight for dismissal or the best case outcome.
DUI Defense
Did the police arrest you for DUI in Poway? You could lose your license and spend months in jail without aggressive DUI attorneys in Poway. A DUI lawyer in Poway may question the evidence against you or how the police made the stop and arrest. We’re available 24/7 to defend your rights.
Drug Trafficking
Californians strongly dislike Poway drug trafficking because of the societal damage caused. Nine years in prison and a $20,000 fine is possible. You need an aggressive drug crime lawyer in Poway on your case right away. We’re here 24/7 to fight for you.
Corporal Injury to a Spouse
Corporal injury to a spouse jail time is up to a year if convicted, and you’ll also be known as a domestic abuser. It doesn’t have to happen. Our domestic violence attorney knows how to defend your rights against such serious charges. We are available 24 hours a day to defend against domestic violence charges.
Domestic Battery
A charge for domestic battery in Poway under California Penal Code 243(e) can result in up to a year in jail, a $2,000 fine, and probation. You also must complete a one-year batterer’s treatment program. Skilled domestic battery lawyers may argue false accusation, touching was not willful, or self-defense. We’re ready to defend you 24/7.
Attempted Murder
Poway attempted murder is a crime under California Penal Code 664/187. A first degree attempted murder conviction can lead to life in prison without parole. A Poway attempted murder lawyer is critical to your future and freedom. Our criminal defense lawyer is available anytime to build the best defense.
Assault With Deadly Weapon
Assault with a deadly weapon in Poway means assaulting someone with any weapon other than a gun. Penalties under California Penal Code 245 include up to a year in county jail for a misdemeanor and four years for a felony. Speak to an assault with a deadly weapon lawyer in Poway today for the best case outcome.
Felony Reckless Evading
Are you alleged to have fled the police in Poway? This is called felony reckless evading; you could be put behind bars for a long time if convicted. You need to hire the best Poway felony reckless evading lawyers to ensure the best outcome for your case.
Lewd and Lascivious Acts with a Minor Child
It is illegal in California to engage in lascivious conduct with a minor. If convicted, you can be imprisoned for up to eight years. You also will have to register as a sex offender for life. A lewd and lascivious lawyer in Poway will work hard to create reasonable doubt in the jury.
Burglary
Burglary in Poway can lead to a misdemeanor or felony conviction that can wreck your future. A Poway burglary lawyer is key to defending your rights and freedom. Our burglary lawyer in Poway may contend that you thought the items were yours, and other persuasive defenses are possible.
Get Help Now
If you or someone you know has been arrested, Don’t wait! Contact us right now for a free consultation. The sooner you have a criminal defense attorney on your criminal or DUI case, the better your chances of taking the correct steps to getting the results you want.
Criminal Defense
Being charged with a crime is scary, and you need the best Poway criminal law firm to stand up for your rights. California prosecutors will work hard to put you in jail and turn your life upside down with a criminal conviction. The Poway criminal defense attorney at Elite Criminal Defense isn’t intimidated by any criminal charge and will fight tenaciously to keep you out of jail. We have achieved many case dismissals and charge reductions for our clients. Whether you were charged with DUI, drug trafficking, or assault and battery, we are ready 24/7 to defend your rights and freedom. Learn more about Criminal Defense
DUI Defense
If the police pull you over for DUI in Poway, you can be sent to jail for months and have your license suspended. A criminal record will follow you everywhere for years. But our DUI defense attorney in Poway is highly skilled in questioning the police's evidence against you. Our DUI attorneys in Poway may cast doubt on the arrest process, the breathalyzer or blood test results, or how the police conducted the field sobriety tests. We are available 24/7 to build the best defense to beat a misdemeanor or felony charge or obtain the most lenient sentence. Learn more about DUI Defense
Domestic Violence
You can receive a year in county jail for a domestic violence misdemeanor conviction. Two to six years in state prison are likely for a second or subsequent domestic violence conviction. A permanent criminal record will also prevent you from maximizing job and educational opportunities. An elite Poway domestic violence attorney knows how to cast doubt on the evidence against you and create reasonable doubt. We can argue that it was an accident or you acted in self-defense. We’re standing by to fight these serious charges against you and will fight for the ideal outcome of your case. Learn more about Domestic Violence
Why Elite Criminal Defense?
The very foundation of our practice is based on the belief that each client’s case is unique and that regardless of their circumstances, every client deserves the absolute best representation possible. That’s our promise, to each and every client we represent, that it does not matter what you’ve done or what you’re being accused of, we will fight for you and be beside you every step of the way.
Burglary
A 2nd-degree burglary charge in Poway is a dire situation. You can be jailed for up to a year for a misdemeanor and up to three years for a felony. However, the state prosecutor must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A Poway burglary attorney is highly skilled in defending you against serious breaking and entering charges. We may contend that you weren’t aware that the items in question weren’t yours or that you had no intent. Elite Criminal Defense enjoys an outstanding case dismissal record, and we’re here 24/7 to serve you. Learn more about Burglary
Drug Possession
Many states are loosening drug possession laws, but you can still go to jail in California if convicted. California Health and Safety Code 11350 says it is a crime to possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription. These include heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and others. However, the prosecutor must prove you had physical or constructive possession of the drugs. You should immediately retain a Poway drug possession attorney to defend your rights. Possession with the intent to sell has many persuasive defenses, and our criminal defense attorneys may cite problems with the arrest or lack of knowledge that the drug was illegal. Learn more about Drug Possession
Sexual Assault
A sexual battery or assault charge under California Penal Code 243.4 means touching someone intimately without consent. The sexual assault charge may be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the case against you. You can receive up to a year in jail; four years is on the table. The charge may include forced penetration, rape, or unwanted kissing, among others. The consequences can be severe, so you should hire a proven Poway sexual assault attorney to defend your freedom 24 hours per day. Our lawyer for sexual assault will strive to create reasonable doubt and may file a Penal Code 17(b) motion to reduce the charges. Learn more about Sexual Assault
Criminal Defense FAQ
What To Do When Arrested in Poway?
If you are arrested in Poway, there are critical steps you should take immediately:
- Remain calm and cooperative, avoid resisting arrest.
- Invoke your right to remain silent—don't respond to police interrogation without legal counsel.
- Contact a trusted criminal defense attorney ASAP to safeguard your rights.
- Record your own account—note times, locations, witnesses, and any evidence such as texts or photos.
- Comply with court orders, bail requirements, or protective orders to avoid further charges.
These actions help establish a strong defense foundation and may minimize legal fallout.
Which courthouse handles criminal cases filed in Poway?
Criminal cases for Poway residents are typically heard at the North County Regional Center in Vista, which is part of the San Diego Superior Court system. This branch handles both misdemeanor and felony matters for North County areas.
Are diversion or specialty court programs available to Poway residents?
Yes. Poway residents may qualify for specialized programs such as drug court, veterans court, or mental health court in North County (Vista). These diversion programs often lead to reduced charges or dismissal upon successful completion.
How can I access a police report for a Poway incident?
You can request arrest or incident reports from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Poway Station Records Division—requests can be made online or in person. These reports generally take 5–10 business days to process.
What long-term consequences could arise from a conviction in Poway?
Convictions in Poway may lead to:
- Permanent criminal record affecting jobs, housing, and social reputation.
- Immigration complications, professional licensing restrictions, and firearm prohibitions.
- Insurance rate increases or policy cancellations, especially with DUI or theft charges.
Even minor convictions can trigger collateral consequences with lasting impact.
What is the statute of limitations for criminal charges in Poway?
California statutes of limitations apply to Poway cases as follows:
- Misdemeanors: generally must be filed within 1 year.
- Felonies: most must be filed within 3 years, or 6 years for felonies punishable by 8+ years in prison.
- Certain crimes, including murder or serious sexual assault, have no statute of limitations.
- Domestic violence BI cases carry up to 5 years.
What agencies handle criminal matters in Poway, California?
If you’re dealing with a criminal investigation or charge in Poway, several local and regional agencies may play a key role in your case:
- San Marcos Police Department (SMPD): While Poway does not have its own municipal police department, nearby San Marcos PD may assist with coordination or support in joint investigations or regional patrol initiatives involving North County law enforcement.
- San Diego County Sheriff’s Office – Poway Station: This is the primary law enforcement agency serving Poway. Deputies from the Poway station respond to emergency calls, conduct investigations, and make arrests across the city.
- San Diego County Public Defender’s Office – North County Division: If you are charged with a crime in Poway and cannot afford an attorney, this office provides court-appointed legal representation for both misdemeanor and felony cases.
Get Help Now
If you or someone you know has been arrested, Don’t wait! Contact us right now for a free consultation. The sooner you have a criminal defense attorney on your criminal or DUI case, the better your chances of taking the correct steps to getting the results you want.