Areas served: San Diego, CA and throughout San Diego County
San Diego's criminal justice system processes thousands of cases annually across multiple courthouses, including the downtown Hall of Justice and regional facilities in Chula Vista, El Cajon, and Vista. Defense attorneys in this jurisdiction navigate both state prosecutions and federal cases handled by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California. This directory covers criminal defense lawyers serving clients throughout San Diego County, from misdemeanor matters in local courts to serious felony cases requiring experienced trial representation.
Superior Law Center is led by attorney Erik Friis, who has over 27 years of experience defending DUI and criminal cases in San Diego. Known for aggressive representation and an excellent DUI dismissal rate, the firm has secured more than 2000 case victories since 1999. They specialize in reducing or dismissing DUI charges, fighting felony cases under California's Three Strikes Rule, and providing 24/7 availability for clients facing arrest. With a 5-star rating from 428 Google reviews, Superior Law Center serves San Diego County with a reputation for prioritizing clients and fighting vigorously for the best possible outcome.
“I’m incredibly grateful for Tom Moller and the team at Superior Law Center DUI & Criminal Attorneys. Going through a DUI case was extremely nerve-wracking, but Tom made the entire process feel much less overwhelming with his professionalism, knowledge, and genuine care. A big thank you to Sam Gagliano as well for being helpful and consistent with communication, always keeping me informed and answering my questions. Having such a supportive and responsive team truly made this experience easier to get through. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for strong and reliable legal representation.”
— alyssa alvarez, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 427 reviewsDod Law, APC is a criminal defense firm led by award-winning attorney Dod Ghassemkhani, named 2023 Trial Lawyer of the Year by the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association. The firm handles a comprehensive range of criminal cases including DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, assault, violent crimes, sex crimes, white-collar defense, and court martial cases across San Diego, Orange County, and Vista. Available 24/7, Dod Law combines extensive courtroom experience with a track record of high-profile case victories and dismissals.
Rick Mueller is a San Diego DUI defense attorney who has specialized exclusively in DUI and DMV law since 1983. As Editorial Consultant for California Drunk Driving Law (the 'Bible of DUI Defense') and a member of the National College for DUI Defense and California DUI Lawyers Association, Rick personally handles every case with a focus on keeping clients driving and achieving the best possible outcome. With a 5.0-star rating from 155+ clients and 40+ years of experience, he serves San Diego County with 24/7 availability.
“Great attorney! Always on top of everything! Rick Mueller always did everything to make sure I was informed, his communication is great, I never had any doubts with him, he always made sure to respond to any email I would send, at whatever time it was. He got me the best outcome possible, and I would 100% recommend him to anyone going through this!”
— Nayely Arreola, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 155 reviewsArroyo Law Center is a criminal defense firm in Chula Vista, CA led by an attorney with experience defending clients since 1983. The firm specializes in DUI defense, domestic violence, violent crimes, sex crimes, theft, drug charges, and juvenile defense across San Diego County. As a locally-owned, minority-operated practice with memberships in the California DUI Lawyers Association and California Public Defenders Association, they offer bilingual services in English and Spanish, 24/7 text availability, and free case evaluations with same-day consultations.
“I was referred by someone I knew when I was in need of a lawyer for a close family member of mine. Richard Arroyo is the absolute best. He helped us through a very stressful situation and saved us $7000. I’m extremely grateful for the attention and care he gave my family. He seemed the most knowledgeable and trustworthy. He also gave us detailed advice and options. Now my family member is back home! Thank you!”
— Aranza Flores De Los Santos, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 148 reviewsGriffin Law Office, APC is led by Patrick Griffin, an award-winning criminal defense attorney who has secured not guilty verdicts and dismissals in some of San Diego's most serious cases, including first-degree murder and felony assault. The firm specializes in federal and state criminal defense, with a proven track record of trial victories in domestic violence, homicide, drug crimes, and weapons charges. Available 24/7 and located in downtown San Diego, Griffin Law Office serves clients throughout San Diego County facing felony and misdemeanor charges.
“My mother and I would like to thank Patrick and his team for the hard work they put into my brother's case to get it dismissed. We are glad we chose Griffin Law Office, APC - San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney to represent him. There were several serious charges against my brother that Patrick was able to get a dismissal on. His office is very professional and responds promptly to our questions. I would recommend Griffin Law Office, APC - San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney to anyone navigating through the criminal court system. Patrick and Keegan really did an exceptional job. Thanks!”
— Rod D, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 101 reviewsLaw Offices of David R. Silldorf, APC is a criminal defense law firm in downtown San Diego led by David Silldorf, an attorney with 19 years of trial experience defending clients against state and federal charges. The firm specializes in serious felony cases including murder, attempted murder, drug trafficking, alien smuggling, and DUI with injury, with a track record that includes murder acquittals and case dismissals. Available 24/7 and serving clients throughout San Diego County and Southern California.
“I cannot recommend David highly enough. When I found myself facing criminal charges, I was terrified and had no idea what to expect from the legal process. After making tons of calls to other attorneys, I was left frustrated and skeptical. After an extensive online search I came across David’s Website. With our very first conversation, He put me at ease with his genuine and authentic approach—he treated me like a person, not just another case number. What impressed me most was David's patience. He took the time to thoroughly explain every step of the process, answered all my questions and never made me feel rushed or like I was bothering him. He was always realistic with me about what to expect, which I deeply appreciated. He didn't make empty promises or sugarcoat the situation, but he also helped me understand my options and the best path forward. I also have to give tremendous credit to Sydney, David's right-hand woman. She was absolutely amazing throughout my entire case. Sydney responded to every single call, email, and text message—no matter what time or how I reached out, she never missed my phone call. Her availability and responsiveness were truly exceptional. Beyond that, Sydney was extremely professional, personable, and friendly. I genuinely adore her, and she made navigating this difficult time so much easier. The combination of David's legal expertise and guidance with Sydney's incredible support and communication made all the difference. During what was one of the most stressful periods of my life, knowing I could reach them when I needed guidance gave me such peace of mind. Beyond his legal expertise, it was David's character that stood out. He fought hard for me while maintaining professionalism and integrity throughout the entire process. If you're looking for a criminal attorney who will treat you with respect, keep you informed, genuinely care about your outcome, and has an outstanding team behind him, David is your Man. I'm grateful for everything David and Sydney did for me, and I wouldn't hesitate to refer friends or family to them if they ever needed legal representation.”
— Christina Madrid, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 92 reviewsSevens Legal Criminal Lawyers is San Diego's premier criminal defense firm, led by Founding Partner Samantha Greene, a State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialist and former Deputy District Attorney, and Managing Partner Dan Greene, Trial Lawyer of the Year. With over 150 years of combined criminal defense experience, the firm has earned a 4.9-star rating from 877+ reviews and recognition as San Diego's Best Criminal Defense Firm and Best DUI Firm. They provide 24/7 representation across San Diego County and Southern California for DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, sex crimes, homicide, and professional license defense.
“I am so grateful for Sevens Legal, thankful I was able to get them right away. Ashely, Chris and one more receptionist (I can’t remember her name) I am beyond thankful. Without them I don’t think I’d have the outcome I did. Outside of that, they are so kind and encouraging. I was already going through a very difficult time, and the way Chris and Ashley made me feel was something I really needed. They supported me and communicated every step of the way. Not once did I feel ignored or that I wasn’t listened to. Even at moments when I just vented. I am forever grateful, if I ever need assistance again. I know exactly where to go, and I’d recommend them to anyone who needs it.”
— Deisy Garcia, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 877 reviewsLaw Offices of Susan L. Hartman is a San Diego-based criminal defense firm specializing exclusively in DUI defense. Licensed to practice in California and Massachusetts, Susan L. Hartman provides aggressive representation for clients facing DUI charges, including first-time offenses, DUI with injury, wet reckless charges, military DUI cases, and related alcohol and drug-related offenses. The firm offers free case reviews and 24/7 availability to help navigate California's complex DUI laws and local enforcement patterns.
Law Offices of Anna R. Yum is led by Anna R. Yum, a former prosecutor with 20 years of criminal defense experience in San Diego. The firm specializes in DUI defense, domestic violence, sex crimes, violent crimes, theft, and drug offenses, bringing insider knowledge of how prosecutors build cases to craft aggressive defenses. Available 24/7 for arrests, bail hearings, and emergency consultations, the team serves all San Diego County courthouses including Central, Vista, El Cajon, and Chula Vista. With a 4.9-star rating from 244 Google reviews, clients trust Anna Yum's team for timely communication, strategic defense, and a track record of securing dismissals, reduced charges, and alternative sentencing.
“I had a great experience working with Anna R. Yum in San Diego. She is professional, knowledgeable, and truly cares about her clients. She explained everything clearly, stayed on top of my case, and made a stressful situation much easier to handle. I felt confident having her represent me and would highly recommend her to anyone needing a strong defense attorney.”
— Sonny koma, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 245 reviewsElite Criminal Defense is a San Diego criminal defense law firm that operates 24/7 to defend clients facing serious charges—from DUI and assault to murder and white-collar crimes. Unlike typical law firms that rely on theatrics and inflated bills, they focus on clear communication, compassionate support, and aggressive representation grounded in deep knowledge of California's criminal justice system. Their team serves clients throughout San Diego County with immediate assistance and a commitment to protecting legal rights and freedom at every stage of the legal process.
“I honestly just want to thank everyone at Elite Criminal Defense for all the quality hard work, and dedication. Since day one Carlos & Oscar Valencia have been very humble, professional, productive, and very understanding. They are very busy people but they always find the time to help you and answer your questions in the best way possible. They didn't just keep me out of jail, they dropped my felony and replaced it with a quality life lesson. They helped me turn my life around and gave me hope for the future. Today I am sober, clean, very happy and excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you.”
— Oskar Lizarraga, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 211 reviewsDavid P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys is a San Diego criminal defense firm led by David P. Shapiro and a team of experienced trial attorneys who have secured not guilty verdicts, dismissals, and favorable outcomes across all San Diego County courthouses for nearly two decades. The firm specializes in serious felonies including homicide, sex crimes, violent crimes, federal charges, and DUI defense, with a 4.9-star rating from 209+ Google reviews. Available 24/7, the firm serves clients throughout San Diego County from offices in Downtown San Diego and El Cajon, and is a proud partner of the San Diego Padres Radio Network.
San Diego County DUI Law Center is led by Rick Mueller, a California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) Certified Specialist with 38+ years of DUI defense experience since 1983. Known as the 'DMV Guru,' Rick handles both criminal court cases and critical DMV administrative hearings to protect your driving privileges. Based in downtown San Diego at 501 W Broadway, the firm offers 24/7 availability with a 5-star rating from 52+ reviews and free consultations for anyone facing DUI charges in San Diego County.
The Law Offices of Mark Deniz APLC is a criminal defense firm serving San Diego with extensive experience in DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors. Mark Deniz provides aggressive representation for clients facing serious criminal charges, with a focus on protecting rights and achieving favorable outcomes. The firm offers free consultations and is available to discuss your case at (858) 429-9982.
Kersey Law is a San Diego-based criminal defense firm specializing in DUI, drug charges, and felony defense. Led by experienced defense attorneys, the firm provides aggressive representation for clients facing serious criminal charges in state and federal courts. They offer free consultations and are known for personalized defense strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances.
Monder Criminal Lawyer Group is a San Diego-based criminal defense firm specializing in DUI/DWI, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors. Led by experienced criminal defense attorneys, they provide aggressive representation and free consultations for clients facing serious charges. The firm handles cases throughout San Diego County and is known for their thorough case preparation and client-focused approach.
Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers is a dedicated criminal defense firm in San Diego specializing in DUI, felony, misdemeanor, and drug charge cases. Led by experienced attorneys, the firm provides aggressive representation and personalized defense strategies tailored to each client's circumstances. They offer free consultations and are known for their thorough case preparation and courtroom advocacy.
Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC is a criminal defense firm in San Diego specializing in DUI, felony, misdemeanor, and drug charge defense. Attorney Vikas Bajaj provides aggressive representation for clients facing serious criminal charges, with a focus on protecting rights and achieving the best possible outcomes. The firm handles complex cases from arrest through trial and appeals.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers is a San Diego-based criminal defense firm specializing in federal court representation and complex federal charges. The firm handles cases involving white-collar crimes, drug trafficking, conspiracy, financial crimes, and other serious federal offenses. With experience navigating federal sentencing guidelines and appellate procedures, they provide aggressive defense strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances.
The Law Office of Bradley R. Corbett is a criminal defense firm in San Diego specializing in DUI/DWI, felony, misdemeanor, and drug charge cases. Attorney Bradley R. Corbett provides aggressive representation and personalized legal strategies to protect clients' rights and futures. The firm is known for thorough case analysis, courtroom experience, and direct attorney involvement in every case.
Defending Rights Law Center, Inc. is a criminal defense law firm in San Diego specializing in DUI/DWI cases. Led by experienced defense attorneys, the firm represents clients facing drunk driving charges, providing aggressive legal representation to protect their rights and freedom. They offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to help clients navigate the complexities of DUI defense.
RJT Criminal Defense is a San Diego-based criminal law firm led by experienced attorney Brandon Naidu, specializing in comprehensive criminal defense across DUI, drug offenses, violent crimes, sex crimes, white-collar crimes, theft, weapons charges, and domestic violence. The firm combines aggressive courtroom advocacy with thorough investigation and skilled negotiation, aiming for dismissals, charge reductions, or acquittals. Known for honest client communication and unwavering dedication to protecting clients' rights and futures.
McKenzie Scott Civil Rights & Criminal Defense Lawyers is a dedicated criminal defense and civil rights law firm in San Diego, led by experienced attorneys who handle serious criminal charges, civil rights violations, and related matters. They specialize in defending individuals facing felony and misdemeanor charges while also advocating for those whose rights have been violated. The firm is known for aggressive representation and thorough case preparation.
Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys is a San Diego-based criminal defense firm with over 20 years of experience defending clients against DUI, drug offenses, domestic violence, theft, violent crimes, and other felony and misdemeanor charges. The firm combines deep knowledge of California criminal law with practical experience in San Diego County courts, offering personalized representation tailored to each client's circumstances and long-term concerns including career, family, and immigration impacts.
Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq. is a San Diego criminal defense attorney with extensive experience as a former Public Defender who has handled thousands of cases across all types of criminal charges. He provides comprehensive representation for DUI, drug crimes, theft, violent crimes, domestic violence, sex crimes, child abuse, and weapons offenses throughout San Diego County courts. Fluent in English and Spanish, Anthony is known for his calm, confident courtroom presence and tailored defense strategies that prioritize protecting clients' rights, freedom, and future.
The Law Firm of Howard Williams is a DUI defense practice based in El Cajon, California, specializing in DUI and DWI charges throughout San Diego County. Led by attorney Howard Williams with over 20 years of experience, the firm handles first-time DUI, repeat offenses, felony charges, DUI with injury, underage DUI, drug-related DUI, hit-and-run cases, DMV administrative hearings, license suspension defense, checkpoint arrests, high BAC charges, CDL cases, probation violations, and DUI expungement. The firm is known for aggressive defense strategies that challenge breath test accuracy, field sobriety procedures, and police protocol errors, combined with direct attorney access and local courthouse expertise.
San Diego DUI Attorney is a specialized criminal defense law firm exclusively focused on DUI/DWI cases in San Diego. With 75 combined years of experience and over 35,000 cases handled, they provide aggressive defense representation for clients facing DUI charges under California law. Their attorneys conduct thorough investigations into police procedures, breathalyzer accuracy, and constitutional violations to build strong defense strategies tailored to each client's unique situation.
Mrdui Law Office specializes in DUI and criminal defense for clients throughout San Diego. With extensive experience defending misdemeanor and felony charges, the firm provides personalized legal representation to help clients navigate the criminal justice system. Located in downtown San Diego, they focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for each case.
George H. Ramos, Jr. & Associates is a San Diego-based criminal defense law firm led by attorney George H. Ramos, Jr., a former prosecutor with over 30 years of experience in the criminal justice system. The bilingual firm (English-Spanish) personally handles cases from arraignment through trial, specializing in negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges, plea agreements, and strong courtroom defense. Known for providing undivided client attention and leveraging insider knowledge from both prosecution and defense perspectives, the firm serves clients facing various criminal charges in San Diego County.
Elite Criminal Defense is a Chula Vista-based criminal defense law firm specializing in defending clients facing charges in the South Bay Regional Center courthouse. Led by experienced attorneys with deep local knowledge of Chula Vista Police Department tactics, South Bay prosecutors, and local judges, they handle cases ranging from DUI and domestic violence to serious felony charges. The firm distinguishes itself through constant courtroom presence, pre-emptive case investigation, and a track record of dismissals and not-guilty verdicts in the South Bay venue.
The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC is a San Diego-based criminal defense firm with 38+ years of experience and over 150 trials. Led by Kerry L. Armstrong, a State Bar of California board-certified criminal law specialist and 2026 Trial Lawyer of the Year, the firm handles serious criminal charges including felonies, misdemeanors, drug charges, and other criminal matters. The team includes experienced attorneys like Lindsay S. Cortez and provides free confidential consultations, aggressive courtroom advocacy, and personalized support for clients facing life-altering charges.
Superior Law Center DUI & Criminal Attorney is the top-ranked criminal defense firm in San Diego with a Lantern Score of 85.60/100 and 5★ rating from 427 reviews. Led by attorney Erik Friis with over 27 years of experience and more than 2,000 case victories since 1999, they specialize in DUI defense, felony cases, and Three Strikes charges.
Rick Mueller DUI Attorney is a specialized DUI defense attorney with 40+ years of experience exclusively handling DUI and DMV cases since 1983 (Lantern Score: 85.08/100, 5★ rating with 155 reviews). He personally manages every case and is best for drivers facing DMV license suspension and those seeking to preserve employment and driving privileges.
Multiple top-ranked firms handle felony charges, including Griffin Law Office, APC (Lantern Score: 84.66/100), which specializes in felony defense and homicide cases, and Law Offices of David R. Silldorf, APC (Lantern Score: 84.55/100), with 19+ years defending clients facing serious felony and federal crimes. Both offer aggressive trial representation for complex cases.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers is a San Diego-based firm specializing in federal court representation with a Lantern Score of 83.17/100 and 5★ rating from 43 reviews. They handle white-collar crime, complex federal charges, and appellate representation for clients facing federal investigations.
Arroyo Law Center, a locally-owned minority-operated firm (Lantern Score: 85.04/100, 5★ rating), provides Spanish-language legal representation and serves all of San Diego County since 1983. George H. Ramos, Jr. & Associates (Lantern Score: 77.15/100) also offers bilingual services with a former prosecutor's 30+ years of experience.
Law Offices of Anna R. Yum (Lantern Score: 83.66/100, 4.9★ rating with 245 reviews) is led by former prosecutor Anna R. Yum with two decades of experience and insider knowledge of how cases are built and challenged. She specializes in DUI, immediate bail assistance, and aggressive defense strategies.