Mark SkinnerFacing criminal charges can be incredibly stressful. Between court dates, legal paperwork, and figuring out who to trust, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—and the stakes are high.
That’s where criminal defense lawyers come in. These professionals don’t just show up in court. They guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and work to achieve the best possible outcome.
Luckily, San Diego has skilled and trusted criminal defense attorneys who know the local courts and have a track record of protecting clients. Check out our list to see which lawyers can help you navigate the legal system with confidence.
How much do criminal defense lawyers charge in San Diego?
In San Diego, criminal defense lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case. For more serious charges, some lawyers offer flat fees or retainers ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 or more.
1. Sevens Legal Criminal Lawyers
Address: 3555 Fourth Ave, CA 92103
Contact: +1 619 430 2355
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
When I first looked into Sevens Legal, I wasn’t just casually browsing. I wanted to see if their reputation actually held up. It didn’t take long to understand why they’re so well known across San Diego County and Southern California.
Their credentials are genuinely impressive, but they don’t feel like empty titles. The firm includes attorneys recognised by the National Trial Lawyers (NTL) as Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
What stood out most to me, though, is the leadership behind the firm. Founding Partner Samantha Green is a State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Dan Greene is Trial Lawyer of the Year, and Kerry Steigerwait holds a 10.0 Avvo rating for over a decade.
With 150+ years of combined experience and a client-first approach, Sevens Legal handles serious matters such as professional license defense, hit-and-run cases, and even gun crimes, among others.
The only real drawback is that the firm is clearly built for high-stakes matters. For minor charges, their depth of experience may feel more than what you need.
I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude once everything was resolved
“I first contacted Sevens Legal and spoke with Chris, who’s a great guy, very transparent and reassuring. He took the time to understand what I was dealing with and immediately connected me with Ashley Mangold, and I’m truly grateful he did.
From the moment I spoke with Ashley, I felt a sense of clarity during a time when I was stressed, overwhelmed, confused, just not in a good place. She stepped in right when I needed direction the most.
Ashley is incredibly knowledgeable and walked me through everything step by step. She was patient, honest, and kept in constant communication, which made an enormous difference during such a difficult moment in my life.
What impressed me most was the level of care and attention she put into my situation. She handled everything quickly, professionally, and with an attention to detail that gave me peace of mind. I can honestly say she went above and beyond what I was expecting. The outcome could not have been better, and I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude once everything was resolved.
If you’re looking for an attorney who is skilled, highly intelligent, very responsive, and genuinely committed to her clients, I would highly recommend Ashley Mangold. I’m beyond thankful for everything she did.”
- John Mikhael, Google Review
I was extremely pleased with the very favorable outcome
“Unfortunately, I had to hire this law firm twice in the same year for two separate issues. I had an outstanding experience with them from start to finish for both issues.
My first Attorney was Jay Monico. He was able to have my bogus/false charges dropped within 48 hours of notice and I never had to set foot in court. Money well spent to say the least. Jay is also a combat veteran Marine and really cares about military personnel and veterans.
For the second matter my Attorney was Ben Steigerwalt. Ben took care of me with the utmost professionalism, integrity and attention to detail. He fought hard to protect my rights and had my best interest in mind at all times.
I was extremely pleased with the very favorable outcome that Ben Steigerwalt was able to procure for me.
Both Attorneys were highly knowledgeable, ethical, and genuinely committed to achieving the best possible outcome for me. Their communication was clear, consistent, and reassuring across the board.
Chris Vaughn is the back-of-office Attorney and he is also top-notch. Chris is very knowledgeable and really takes the time to explain everything, every step of the way. He has a calming demeanor while at the same time not sugar coating anything.
I could not be more pleased with this Law Firm and their Attorney’s are all consummate professionals.
In the unfortunate event that you find yourself in need of legal defense, do not hesitate to hire this Law Firm. You will be in great hands and they truly care about their clients.
10/10 stars- thank you Gentleman!”
- Jeff Jabbora, Google Review
2. Superior Law Center – Law Offices of Erik Friis
Address: 2667 Camino del Rio S #304-1, CA 92108
Contact: +1 619 743 9130
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
When I first reached out to Superior Law Center, I immediately noticed how approachable they are. They offer free consultations, which makes it easy to ask questions and understand your options without feeling rushed.
The firm has built a strong reputation. They’re recognised by the San Diego County Bar Association and the American Bar Association, and they are an accredited business.
With 27 years of experience, they are considered one of California’s most-awarded San Diego DUI and criminal defense practices.
I also learned that since 1999, they have successfully handled over 2,000 cases. This shows a proven track record across the region and a deep understanding of local courts.
Their services encompass a wide range of matters, including DUI, felony, and violent crimes, among others. They clearly know how to handle simple and complex criminal cases, giving clients confidence at every step.
The only drawback is that they don’t provide post-conviction support, which can be important for clients navigating life after sentencing.
His team not only defended my DUIs, but also got the DUIs sealed
“I hate to make a recommendation for a DUI lawyer, but here I am, uh, for the second time.
The first DUI was marginal but without expert representation, it would’ve been an easy conviction. I was clueless but his team guided me down a road I didn’t know existed. Dismissed.
The second time, was more challenging because it was in an emergency situation…I potentially saved a life and would do it again (I was .0803 but with combative arrest at the hospital because of the prior DUI arrest.)
Both times, Erik and his team listened from the very first phone call, were sympathetic, and went to work the very next day.
Both arrest records were argued and both arrests were dismissed without a criminal court case. His team not only defended my DUIs, but got the DUIs sealed so there is no arrest record.
It sucks to pay for legal representation but here I am, again, but I have zero on my record.
For you: time is of the essence. You have less options if you wait until what your arrest shows. Hurry up and call Superior Law Center now.”
- Micah Morgan, Google Review
Beyond his willingness to fight, he is incredibly knowledgeable and cerebral
“Highest possible recommendation for Erik. When you screw up, you don’t realize how suffocating and debilitating it is to have the full weight of the state coming after you. You need somebody who is going to fight like hell for you… who is willing to bring a machine gun to a knife fight (metaphorically speaking) for you–that is Erik. I was charged with 2 felonies, and Erik got me into a mental health diversion program with the court, which ended up in a full DISMISSAL of ALL my charges.
Erik has ALWAYS been a defense attorney. He doesn’t have to worry about pissing off his old friends back at the DA’s office by bringing his metaphorical machine gun to court for you.
Beyond his willingness to fight, he is incredibly knowledgable and cerebral. From day 1, he build out a plan for how we could get a great outcome, gave me proper direction in accomplishing “mitigation” well before the initial hearing, and was never too busy to hop on a quick call and answer any questions I had. In addition to his direction, he has a wealth of other contacts at his disposal to help in your case. Without his rolodex, my defense would have been substantially weaker.
Lastly, he and his whole team always treated me like a human being that made a mistake, not like someone they were ashamed of being around, and otherwise wouldn’t associate with me if they weren’t constitutionally and ethically obligated to do the best possible job for me. Given 99.9% of you reading this review are going to be people–who like me, made a mistake–and aren’t criminal sociopaths, it was very uplifting during a time when you feel about as low as you’re ever going to feel.
Once again, I give Erik and everyone at his firm the highest possible recommendation. When you’re going against the State, the odds are horribly stacked against you. Do right by yourself and your family. Hire Erik and skew the odds a little more back in your favor.”
- Russ Campbell, Google Review
3. Dod Law Criminal Defense
Address: 303 A St, Suite 306, CA 92101
Contact: +1 619 814 5110
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
I thought all criminal defense lawyers were the same, but Dod Law completely changed my mind. From the first call, I could tell this firm takes every case seriously and treats clients like people, not just another case to tackle.
Dod Ghassemkhani, named San Diego County’s 2023 Trial Lawyer of the Year, leads a powerhouse team that’s handled more than 6,500 criminal cases in and out of the courtroom.
Their expertise spans from everyday charges to serious capital offenses, including murder cases for clients with multiple convictions. It’s a level of qualification few lawyers can claim.
What I really appreciated was their practical approach. The firm’s website provides clear guidance on what to do after an arrest, which can feel like a lifeline when everything feels overwhelming.
With an Avvo rating of 10.0 and recognition as one of the National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100 Trial Lawyers, you know you’re in capable hands.
The only downside is that clients have difficulty booking appointments due to the firm’s high caseload. Make sure you book in advance and plan to avoid delays.
We walked away with an outcome that we truly didn’t think was possible
“I cannot express enough gratitude for Dod Law, APC—especially Luis, whose dedication, professionalism, and compassion truly exceeded every expectation. From the very beginning of my son’s case, Luis approached every step with a level of care and expertise that immediately put our family at ease. He took the time to explain the process, answer every question, and reassure us during an incredibly stressful time.
What stood out most was how thorough, strategic, and genuinely invested Luis was. He didn’t treat my son like just another case; he treated him like a human being deserving of fairness, dignity, and a real chance at a better outcome. His communication was clear and consistent, and he fought hard to ensure my son received the best possible resolution.
Thanks to Luis’s hard work, my son’s case was handled with remarkable skill and precision. We walked away with an outcome that we truly didn’t think was possible. Our relief and gratitude are beyond words.
If you’re looking for a criminal defense attorney who is knowledgeable, trustworthy, and wholeheartedly committed to his clients, look no further. Luis at Dod Law is exceptional, and our family will always be thankful for everything he did for us.
Highly, highly recommend”
- Isabel Fernandez, Google Review
His expertise, work ethic, and commitment to his clients truly set him apart
“I had the privilege of working with Dod during a challenging time in my life, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. From our first call, Dod displayed professionalism, compassion, and an extensive understanding of criminal law. He took the time to listen to my concerns, clearly explained the legal processes, and laid out my options in a way that was easy to understand.
Dod’s attention to detail and meticulous preparation were evident throughout my case. He was always available to answer my questions and kept me informed every step of the way. His strategic approach and strong advocacy skills resulted in a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations.
What stood out most to me was Dod’s genuine care for his clients. He understood the emotional toll that a criminal case can take and provided not just legal support, but also reassurance during a very stressful time.
If you are looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable criminal lawyer, look no further than Dod. His expertise, work ethic, and commitment to his clients truly set him apart from the rest.”
- Sean Aram, Google Review
4. Lee Law Group
Address: 2878 Camino del Rio S, Suite 400, CA 92108
Contact: +1 619 975 2033
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Lee Law Group has quickly become one of my go-to recommendations for anyone needing top-notch criminal defense in San Diego.
What immediately caught my attention was their tailored approach. No two cases are treated the same, and that level of care really shows.
With over 20 years of experience, the team combines deep knowledge of California law with a proven track record in San Diego County courts.
Ernest Lee, rated by SuperLawyers and boasting a perfect 10.0 on Avvo, leads a team that genuinely puts clients first. Their team-oriented approach means you never feel alone navigating a stressful situation,
I was also impressed by how the lawyers’ diverse backgrounds give them a unique perspective on each case, allowing them to craft strategies that really fit the client’s needs.
Additionally, their accessibility and affordability make high-quality defense surprisingly accessible.
The only downside is that they don’t handle post-conviction work like appeals or parole hearings, which can be vital for clients needing ongoing support after sentencing.
I don’t know where I would be if it weren’t for Mr. Lee
“I’m beyond grateful for Mr. Lee! Leading up to the months I met Mr. Lee, I could tell that I was on the verge of losing myself, as if I felt something was going to happen that would change the course of my life forever. Little did I know, I ran into legal trouble.
When I was released on bail, the bail bondsman handed me a list of lawyers. Mr. Lee was the one that instantly stood out to me because his last name was my middle name. I thought it was funny and didn’t think much after that. Little did I know, that was one of the best decisions I would make.
The day I met Mr. Lee, I was nervous because I didn’t know what to expect after being in jail. I never had to speak with an attorney before, and just thought my world was over before it began. But the moment I met Mr. Lee, he actually put me at ease, despite learning that my charge was in fact a felony and that I could be looking at 2 years in prison. Even with the bad news, I still felt good about the outcome, that I was in the right hands.
Mr. Lee was very understanding and easy to talk to. He kindly explained the entire process in a way that I could understand, whether it was good news or bad news. The thing that impressed me the most was that he was so chill and he had already developed a plan to attack my charge to get it reduced to a misdemeanor with no jail time. It was almost as if he had seen the future and knew exactly how it would play out. In the end, he was 100% correct.
In the courtroom, Mr. Lee was a master of his craft. Before every court appearance, he would explain what we would accomplish that day and help calm my nerves by reassuring my confidence in the process. It was amazing to see how his presence was felt in every court hearing we went to.
Mr. Lee wasn’t only an amazing attorney; he was someone that inspired me to do better, as if he was a bigger brother and at times a father figure. Because of Mr. Lee, I am forever grateful for everything he has done for me, going above and beyond. I could actually tell he genuinely loved what he did and cared about his clients.
I say it all the time: I don’t know where I would be if it weren’t for Mr. Lee. Since the success of my case, I have been married for over 5 years with two beautiful boys. I even recently graduated with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health to become a Licensed Mental Health Therapist so I too can follow in the footsteps of Mr. Lee in helping my own community.
My name is Terrell, and I highly recommend Lee Law Group! From my personal experience, Mr. Lee is the best attorney without any doubt in my mind. Thanks again Mr.Lee!”
- T Blanco, Google Review
Mr. Lee was able to knock down the charges from a felony to a misdemeanor
“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Lee Law Group came through for my family by providing the highest quality of service!
My son was going through hard times and made a decision that placed him at the mercy of our justice system. We consulted with quite a few highly reviewed Lawyers in San Diego. Most would talk a confident game, even claiming to have connections in the District Attorney Office, but would end up providing inconsistent information and a weak plan of attack.
Then we talked with Mr. Lee, who after reviewing my son’s charges, gave honest answers, provided a solid way forward and gave us a sense of security that he was an extremely competent lawyer that wouldn’tlet us down. He did not disappoint.
We are a minority family, and Mr. Lee understands that young minorities are not often afforded the opportunity to make a mistake that didn’t rob them of a future. Even though my son was fully cooperative, but not in his right mind, the police still put charges on him that could have placed him in the prison system for 2 – 6 years, this is nonviolent too.
This is why we were soo blessed to have hired Mr. Lee. We worked out a flat fee and a payment plan that didn’t kill us financially, and their help was worth every penny. We showed up to the first court date, and like he explained to us, Mr. Lee was able to knock down the charges from a felony to a misdemeanor. Then he told us don’t worry about coming back to court, because he will take care of the rest. From there, we just simply followed the guidance that the Lee Law Group provided. Mr. Lee even found a community service program for my son to volunteer.
Finally, we get a congratulations by Mr. Lee, letting us know that he got my son’s case dismissed, with the attached court dismissal documents. Again, Thank you soo much to the Lee Law Group for allowing my son the chance to have a wake up call in this unfair society, and keep my son’s record clean for future opportunities that would have been lost.
Sincerely,
Ezra Flowers”
- Ezra Flowers, Google Review
5. Kersey Law
Address: 427 C St, Suite 313, CA 92101
Contact: +1 619 399 3662
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Kersey Law Office has quickly become a standout choice for criminal defense in San Diego. One thing that immediately impressed me was their laser focus on a single core area, which enables them to deliver unmatched depth and precision to every case.
For over a decade, founding attorney Jamahl Kersey has worked tirelessly to prevent wrongful convictions and ensure just outcomes.
With more than 1,000 cases successfully navigated, his experience spans first-degree murder and major drug conspiracies. It also includes DUIs and cases involving clients facing potential deportation.
Beyond that, the firm has a strong track record defending professionals whose licences and livelihoods are on the line. This includes educators, healthcare workers, contractors, and more.
What really sets them apart is their free strategy session. In under an hour, you will walk away with a clear, actionable plan, which can be a huge relief when everything feels overwhelming.
Their client-first approach, combined with recognition as a National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Attorney, makes them a firm you can trust.
The only limitation is that they don’t provide in-house expert witness services, which is critical in complex criminal cases that need specialised analysis.
Having Kersey Law on my side was one of the best choices
“We all know that going to court can be very stressful. In my particular case I was arrested on a felony and misdemeanor charge. I mention this because this was the first time I ever had to call around trying to find the right lawyer and was unaware of how expensive attorneys can be, which only added on to my worries.Nonetheless, I called law firm after law firm and felt as if most just wanted to know my charges so that they could hurry and give me a quote. When I got into contact with Mr Kersey, it was a completely different experience, I felt he truly cared about me and understood my worries about possible conviction and my financial worries aswell. He reassured me multiple times on our first call that he would be able to defend me in court (which at the time I really needed to hear) , his confidence, understanding, and willingness to go out of his way to help me find a way to pay for representation sealed my choice with picking Kersey Law to represent me in court. The results, I had all charges, both felony’s and misdemeanors dismissed. The experience of having Kersey Law on my side was one of the best choices I have ever made as they always kept me up to date with everything and anything I needed to know before each court date in a timely fashion. Whenever I had any questions or felt nervous after or before a court hearing, I would reach out to Kersey law and they always made sure that all my questions and worries were addressed. They will communicate with you throughout the entire court process, you will not feel alone and you can rest assured that the people that are representing you in court are truly fighting for you, care about you and have your best interests in mind. With Kersey law you don’t have to go through this challenging process alone and will have someone on your side who can get the job done, like I mentioned prior, with their representation I had all my charges dismissed. This law firm is the right option as they will be there for you from start to end. I will forever be thankful for all of the team at Kersey law!”
- Cristian Enrique Duran, Google Review
He really listened to where I was coming from and understood my case
“Best Attorney Experience
Jamahl was my first criminal lawyer — and I hope to God my last. What you see is what you get with him. Not only is he an attorney, but he’s also a YouTuber, so you can actually check out his channel and see for yourself how knowledgeable he really is.
During the most difficult time of my life, Jamahl was there to tell it like it is. Between court dates, he didn’t waste time with unnecessary calls or meetings, but whenever I had a question, he answered right away. I trusted him to do his job, gave him whatever information he asked for, and it worked out perfectly. He really listened to where I was coming from and understood my case details.
Another thing I appreciated was his firm’s pricing — straightforward, clear, and with no hidden fees. At the same time, I had been paying another attorney who charged me for “case review meetings” every month without providing documentation or results. I felt completely taken advantage of. Now I know why that firm is called “The Moore Group” — more money, more frustration, and no results.
In the end, thanks to Jamahl and his team, I went from facing two misdemeanors to only having to complete seven anger management classes — and then it will all be dismissed. That’s an incredible outcome, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
I wish Mr. Kersey and his family all the best. Thank you to him and everyone who helped make this happen.
Don’t forget to check out his channel:
👉 Jamahl Kersey YouTube”
- Gary Flores, Google Review
