Best Criminal Lawyers in San Diego

andres-moreno
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Andrés Moreno

Criminal Lawyer

Andrés Moreno is the founder of Moreno and Associates. He has been practicing law since 1984. Prior to starting his own firm, he was a partner in another law firm.

Since Andrés started practicing law, he developed expertise and practiced in various legal areas including Immigration Law, Family Law, Bankruptcy Law, Civil Litigation, Criminal Litigation (both Federal Criminal Defense and State Criminal Defense), Arbitration, Contract Litigation, and Business Litigation. He draws from his vast experience and knowledge to advise clients in Immigration Law, Family Law, Civil Litigation, and Criminal Law.

Aside from being an advocate for our clients in various legal issues, Andrés is also a former Judge-Pro-Tempore of the South Bay Judicial District. Thus, when dealing with complicated legal cases, all of the attorneys of the firm seek his guidance and experience as a former Judge-Pro-Tempore in analyzing the most probable outcome of a given legal issue or a case.

Andrés is a member of the International Bar Association, the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), the Hispanic Bar Association, the National Criminal Bar Association, the La Raza Lawyers Association, and the San Diego Chamber of Commerce.

Anna Yum
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Anna Yum

Criminal Lawyer

Anna Yum is a nationally recognized and premier criminal defense attorney in San Diego. Ms. Yum is licensed to practice law in state and federal courts in both the Southern and Central Districts of California. She is also licensed to practice law in the state of Illinois.

Ms. Yum has successfully represented clients on various criminal charges ranging from serious and/or violent offenses such as sexual assault, domestic violence with great bodily injury enhancements, child molestation, murder, attempted murder, “criminal street gang” cases, robbery, felony offenses with firearm enhancements, etc. to lower-level offenses including driving under the influence, theft-related offenses, narcotics cases, commercial burglary, insurance fraud, assault and battery, and much more. During the course of her career, Ms. Yum has successfully tried a multitude of jury and bench trials to verdict.

Many of her high-profile cases have been recognized and highlighted by the media. Ms. Yum is called upon and trusted by Fox News, HLN/CNN, Discover ID, Court TV, Law & Crime, and many more to provide legal commentary for the top headline cases. Due to her years of experience, she has also been called to serve as a guest lecturer in providing continuing legal education (MCLE) to other attorneys with respect to domestic violence.

Prior to opening her law practice, Ms. Yum gained invaluable experience as a prosecutor at the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office. During her tenure at the District Attorney’s office, Ms. Yum was promoted very quickly and she conducted dozens of jury trials. She prosecuted a wide variety of complex criminal matters including Domestic Violence, General Felonies, Grand Theft Auto, Career Criminal, Criminal Street Gangs, and Sexual Assault/Child Abuse. Ms. Yum’s hard work and talent did not go unnoticed as she garnered several accolades including a nomination for Misdemeanor Deputy District Attorney of the Year and Employee of the Month on several occasions.

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Brandon Naidu

Criminal Lawyer

San Diego Legacy Attorney & Founder Vik Monder (1985-2022) has been a first generation born American that has always accomplished what he set his mind to when the odds were against him. His tenacity and determination became part of him at an early age witnessing his family in distressed situations without the ability to even afford an attorney. Through his own experiences with the criminal process as a witness to his best friend’s murder Mr. Monder personally observed the ugly side of the criminal justice system. This led Mr. Monder down a journey to educate himself on the reality of the criminal justice system.

After graduating law school Mr. Monder pursued a masters in criminal trial advocacy because he realized the most important quality in any criminal defense attorney is his or her understanding of criminal procedure and the rules of the criminal court. Mr. Monder trained with the individuals that wrote the rules on criminal evidence and procedure so that none of his clients will ever fall through the cracks. Mr. Monder has been published for his work with other leaders in the criminal justice circuit and lectures often at local law schools and universities.

Mr. Monder has successfully represented thousands of clients throughout San Diego County. He was well respected in each courthouse in San Diego and has created lasting relationships with court staff and prosecutors over the years. Mr. Monder covered a range of cases from complex felonies to simple misdemeanors and has a long list of satisfied clients. Mr. Monder’s success was built on his keen sense of justice and attentiveness to each client.

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Dod Ghassemkhani

Criminal Lawyer

With 17 years of experience practicing criminal defense law, Dod Ghassemkhani and his law firm Dod Law, APC, in Vista and Downtown San Diego, California, have worked on more than 6,500 criminal cases in and out of the courtroom in the San Diego area. This experience includes nearly every type of criminal case, including more than 75 jury trials and 400 preliminary hearings. Mr. Ghassemkhani also is uniquely qualified by the California State Bar to handle serious capital offenses, including murder charges for clients who have multiple convictions.

AREAS OF PRACTICE

  • Criminal Defense

BAR ADMISSIONS

  • California

EDUCATION

  • University of San Diego School of Law, San Diego, California
    • Juris Doctorate – 2003
  • Santa Clara University – 1998
Ally F. Keegan
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Ally F. Keegan

Criminal Lawyer

Ally was born and raised in New York, before heading to Philadelphia and graduating from Villanova University. She eventually left the East Coast for San Diego, where she earned her law degree from the University of San Diego School of Law with a concentration in criminal litigation.

Ally got her first taste of criminal law at the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office in college, before pivoting to criminal defense in law school and never looking back. Having seen cases prepared and tried from both sides of the courtroom, Ally knows how to evaluate her cases from all angles and strategize relentlessly to ensure the best results for her clients.

Ally has practiced criminal defense on both the state and federal level. Having handled various types of cases in every stage of the defense process, she understands the care and attention that every person accused of a crime needs and deserves. Ally is proud to have the opportunity to defend people in their darkest hour, and does not take her responsibility as a defense attorney lightly. She knows that at the end of the day, the most gratifying part of her job is being able to help her clients navigate our complicated legal system.

Since 2021, Ally has also served as an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Law at the University of San Diego’s School of Law Paralegal Program.

San deigo Criminal Attorney Bandon Nidu
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BRANDON NAIDU

Criminal Lawyer

Brandon Naidu is the lead attorney for RJT Criminal Lawyer. He has dedicated his entire career to the practice of criminal defense in the San Diego and Southern California community. Mr. Naidu has handled over a thousand criminal defense and DUI defense cases throughout his career. He has represented clients in all forms of criminal cases that range from misdemeanor offenses to serious and violent felonies such as rape, attempted murder, murder, child molestation, child pornography, domestic violence, DUI, among many other categories.

Born and raised just outside of Seattle, Washington, Mr. Naidu graduated and moved to Salt Lake City, Utah to pursue a career in the United States Marine Corps Officer Training Corps at the University of Utah, where he simultaneously pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. Following a medical release from the military, Mr. Naidu then obtained his Master’s Degree in Economics from the University of Utah in 2010. Upon graduation, Mr. Naidu realized that his skills at problem solving and seeking creative solutions could be better utilized elsewhere. He made the decision to move to San Diego, California where he obtained his law degree from California Western School of Law with a strong emphasis on criminal law.

Mr. Naidu has devoted his career to only one area of practice: criminal defense. He is a firm believer that an attorney should focus his strengths on one aspect of law in order to ensure the best possible results for his clients; rather than splitting his time between various areas of practice such as personal injury, family law, or other forms of civil litigation.

Mr. Naidu has been continuously awarded by the legal community for his commitment to his clients and to the practice of criminal defense.

Peter Blair
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Peter Blair

Criminal Lawyer

Attorney Peter Blair is the lead and founding attorney of Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers. He has worked solely in criminal defense in San Diego as well as the neighboring counties throughout southern California. Mr. Blair has litigated thousands of cases and has taken cases to trial ranging from murder, attempted murder, robbery, rape, child molest to domestic violence.

Mr. Blair was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. He grew up playing sports year round and ultimately received multiple baseball scholarships for college. He attended the University of Washington and graduated with a 3.7 grade point average while working full time.

In 2005, Mr. Blair decided to moved to San Diego to pursue law and become an Attorney for the sole purpose of helping people. During Law School, Mr. Blair held a number of clerkships, but worked primarily at a prestigious criminal defense law firm where he developed great a passion for helping people in unfortunate situations.

After graduating, Mr. Blair took on a position as the single associate in an extremely high volume law firm handling some of the most serious violent crimes and major narcotics cases in in San Diego.

Eddie Johnson
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Eddie Johnson

Criminal Lawyer

Eddie Johnson is the Director of Operations and Partner at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum. Mr. Johnson practices primarily in civil litigation. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Johnson was an associate at the third largest I.P. firm in the nation, where he helped litigate multi-million-dollar cases involving theft of trade secrets and I.P. infringement.

Mr. Johnson graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law in 2015, in the top 10% of his class, with the honors magna cum laude and Order of the Coif.  He served as the Technology Editor for the San Diego Law Review and competed as a member of the Moot Court team. Also, while attending law school, Mr. Johnson obtained a prestigious judicial externship with Federal Court Judge Marilyn L. Huff in the Southern District of California.

Education

  • University of San Diego School of Law, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2015
  • University of Washington, Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication, Minor in Applied Mathematics, 2004

Licenses & Associations

  • State Bar of California
  • United States District Court, Southern District of California
  • United States District Court, Northern District of California
  • American Bar Association
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In the picturesque coastal city of San Diego, California, individuals accused of criminal offenses often find themselves facing a daunting legal landscape. A criminal charge can have life-altering consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and a lasting criminal record. In such challenging times, the services of the best criminal defense attorneys in San Diego become essential. This article explores the qualities that distinguish the top criminal defense lawyers in the city and how they play a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights and liberties of those accused of crimes.

Understanding the Role of Criminal Defense Attorneys:

Before we delve into the qualities of the best criminal defense attorneys in San Diego, it is crucial to comprehend their indispensable role in the legal arena:

  1. Legal Guidance: Criminal defense attorneys provide expert legal counsel to individuals facing criminal charges, helping them understand their rights and the complexities of the legal process.

  2. Protection of Rights: These attorneys serve as fierce advocates for their clients, ensuring that their constitutional rights are upheld, and due process is followed throughout the legal proceedings.

  3. Case Investigation: They meticulously investigate the circumstances of the case, scrutinize evidence, interview witnesses, and employ experts when necessary to build a strong defense.

  4. Negotiation and Advocacy: Criminal defense lawyers negotiate with prosecutors, aiming for reduced charges, plea deals, or dismissal of charges. When negotiations fail, they vigorously defend their clients in court.

  5. Trial Representation: The best defense lawyers are seasoned trial attorneys, prepared to present compelling arguments and evidence in court to secure the best possible outcome for their clients.

Qualities of the Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in San Diego:

So, what sets the best criminal defense attorneys in San Diego apart from the rest? Let’s explore the key attributes and qualities that distinguish these legal professionals:

  1. Expertise in Criminal Law:

    • The best criminal defense lawyers have in-depth expertise in criminal law, which encompasses a wide range of offenses, from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

  2. Experience Matters:

    • Years of experience in handling criminal cases is a vital indicator of a lawyer’s proficiency. These lawyers have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in various criminal matters.

  3. Local Knowledge:

    • Familiarity with the San Diego legal landscape, local judges, and prosecutors is an advantage. The best criminal defense attorneys in San Diego have an intricate understanding of the city’s unique legal environment.

  4. Effective Communication Skills:

    • Effective communication is paramount in the legal field. The best attorneys can explain complex legal matters in simple terms, ensuring clients fully grasp their options and strategies.

  5. Negotiation Skills:

    • Many criminal cases are resolved through negotiation. The best criminal defense lawyers excel in negotiation, securing favorable outcomes for their clients.

  6. Litigation Experience:

    • While not all cases go to trial, the best attorneys are prepared for courtroom battles and are known for their adeptness in defending their clients’ rights in court.

  7. Client-Centered Approach:

    • Top criminal defense attorneys prioritize their clients’ interests and well-being. They listen to their clients’ concerns, address their questions, and tailor their strategies to the unique circumstances of each case.

  8. Track Record of Success:

    • Look for attorneys with a history of securing favorable outcomes, whether through dismissals, acquittals, reduced charges, or plea bargains, in cases similar to yours.

  9. Transparent Fees:

    • The best criminal defense attorneys are transparent about their fees and billing practices, ensuring clients have a clear understanding of the costs involved.

  10. Empathy and Compassion:

    • Facing criminal charges can be emotionally challenging. The best attorneys approach their clients with empathy and compassion, recognizing the stress and anxiety involved.

  11. Legal Innovators:

    • Top criminal defense lawyers stay updated on evolving criminal laws and legal trends, using innovative legal strategies to protect their clients’ rights.

How the Best Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help:

Now that we’ve outlined the qualities of the best criminal defense attorneys in San Diego, let’s explore how they can assist individuals facing criminal charges in various situations:

  1. DUI Defense:

    • Criminal defense lawyers can challenge DUI charges, scrutinizing sobriety tests, police procedures, and other evidence to build a strong defense.

  2. Drug Offenses:

    • Attorneys can navigate complex drug cases, challenging evidence collection and exploring legal defenses to minimize penalties.

  3. Sex Crimes:

    • These lawyers provide vigorous defense for individuals accused of sex crimes, ensuring due process and protecting their clients’ rights.

  4. Assault and Battery:

    • Criminal defense attorneys can present compelling arguments to defend against assault and battery charges, exploring self-defense or mistaken identity, if applicable.

  5. White-Collar Crimes:

    • They represent clients in white-collar crime cases, including fraud, embezzlement, and insider trading, building a strategic defense to mitigate consequences.

  6. Theft and Property Crimes:

    • These lawyers can challenge theft and property crime charges, seeking reduced charges, restitution, or case dismissal when possible.

Conclusion:

In the vibrant city of San Diego, the best criminal defense attorneys are unwavering advocates for individuals facing criminal charges. Their expertise, experience, and unyielding commitment to upholding the law and safeguarding the rights of their clients make them indispensable in the quest for justice. Whether contesting charges, negotiating plea deals, or defending clients in court, the best criminal defense attorneys in San Diego stand as pillars of legal defense, ensuring that those accused of crimes are afforded the best possible chance to protect their freedoms and secure their futures.

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