California State Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego

The San Diego Criminal Defense Attorneys at LAWSTACHE™ LAW FIRM know that the attorney you choose can mean the difference between winning and losing. Fifty years ago, the Supreme Court of United States recognized the “obvious truth” that a criminal defense lawyer is a necessity and not a luxury when a defendant faces a criminal charge in State or Federal court. The Court also observed that even an intelligent and educated non-lawyer “requires the guiding hand of counsel at every step in the proceedings against him.” San Diego Criminal Defense Attorneys at LAWSTACHE™ Law Firm are that “guiding hand,” diligently ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the entire duration of criminal proceedings, from criminal arraignment through the duration of the trial.

Our San Diego Criminal Defense Attorneys represent clients throughout Southern California, including San Diego County, Orange County, Los Angeles, and Riverside. We are licensed in California and Nevada.

If you were charged or indicted in the San Diego Federal Court, see our San Diego Federal Criminal Defense page.

California State Criminal Defense

In the following sections our criminal defense attorneys explain common California crimes and defenses. Open a topic below to see the articles.

Domestic Violence

Personal Property Crimes

Drug Crimes

Vehicular Crimes

Fraud

Theft Crimes

Sex Crimes

Sexual Battery & Sexual Assault | California PC 243.4

Alcohol Crimes

Criminal Process

What Happens Between an Arrest and the Jury Trial?
How can I get my criminal case dismissed in San Diego?
What happens at the arraignment?
Do I need to be present at the arraignment?
How can I get a court to appoint a lawyer for my case?
Public Defenders vs Private Attorneys
I missed the court date and now I have a warrant out for my arrest. What Should I Do?
Modification or Termination of Probation under PC 1203.3
Plea Bargaining
Presumption of Innocence
Miranda Warning – Custodial Interrogation
IMMIGRATION CONSEQUENCES IN DRUG CASES AND A CHART OF SELECTED CALIFORNIA OFFENSES
What does it mean when asked if you were formally charged?
FEDERAL CLEMENCY APPLICATION
What if two statutes seem to criminalize the same conduct? Perjury vs. False Statement

Sentencing

When selecting a San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney, it is crucial that you pick an attorney that knows all the alternatives to jail/prison sentences. There is nothing worse than sitting in jail and learning later that you could have been sentenced to home confinement or GPS monitoring. The following are some of the alternatives to custody that you may be eligible. Please discuss these alternatives with an experienced San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney because eligibility depends on the crime, past history, and other factors. These are the most common alternatives in San Diego County, but many are available in other counties such as Riverside and Orange County.

FAQ

Motions

What is an ARANDA-BRUTON motion?
Can a company be prosecuted in the same way as an individual?
What does it mean to expunge a San Diego DUI?

Watch LAWSTACHE on YouTube

Where we take cases

Our office is in downtown San Diego at 185 West F Street, Suite 100-D. We defend clients throughout Southern California, in both state and federal court, and beyond.

San Diego County

Downtown San Diego
Chula Vista (South County)
El Cajon (East County)
Vista (North County)

Orange County & Los Angeles

Santa Ana, Anaheim, Irvine and all of Orange County
Los Angeles County
Riverside County

Federal Court

Southern District of California (San Diego & El Centro)
Central District of California (Los Angeles, Santa Ana, Riverside)
CJA Panel attorney in both districts

And beyond

Imperial County
Licensed in California and Nevada
Federal courts in Nevada

See all the cities we serve →

Latest videos

Can Police Stop You JUST Because You’re on Probation or Parole? (California Law)

September 2, 2026

Cops Wore NIGHT VISION Goggles to Spy on This Driveway… Was It Legal?

August 12, 2026

Can Cops Use a Thermal Camera on Your Home Without a Warrant? | Kyllo v. US

July 22, 2026

“He Put Stuff in My Room, Bro” — Kid Destroys 4th Amendment Defense (US v. Gatkuoth)

June 10, 2026

Browse all 362 articles & videos on this topic

Can Police Stop You JUST Because You’re on Probation or Parole? (California Law)
September 2, 2026 · ▶ Video
Cops Wore NIGHT VISION Goggles to Spy on This Driveway… Was It Legal?
August 12, 2026 · ▶ Video
Can Cops Use a Thermal Camera on Your Home Without a Warrant? | Kyllo v. US
July 22, 2026 · ▶ Video
“He Put Stuff in My Room, Bro” — Kid Destroys 4th Amendment Defense (US v. Gatkuoth)
June 10, 2026 · ▶ Video
FBI Raids Home, Refuses to Show Warrant — State Can’t Just Take the Feds’ Word for It. 4th Amendment
June 3, 2026 · ▶ Video
Первое нарушение ДУИ в Сан-Диего — Русскоговорящий адвокат
Guide
San Diego Alien Smuggling Attorney
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San Diego Drug DUI Attorney
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San Diego DUI With Injury Attorney
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San Diego Federal Drug Trafficking Attorney
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San Diego Felony DUI Attorney
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San Diego First Offense DUI Attorney
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San Diego Second Offense DUI Attorney
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San Diego Third Offense DUI Attorney
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San Diego Underage DUI Attorney
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The U.S. Seized $50 Million (700,000 Barrels) of Iranian Oil Mid-Ocean. Turkey Made a Claim as Owner
April 22, 2026 · ▶ Video
Suspended License Since 1993. Cop Towed His Car. Cop Found Drugs & a Gun. Judge Threw It All Out!
March 25, 2026 · ▶ Video
Local Fentanyl Dealer Worked From HOME — And It Cost Him Extra Years in Prison b/c Home Enhancement
March 18, 2026 · ▶ Video
Border Patrol Tracked Him in Real Time & His Old Guilty Plea Buried Him in the New Crime
March 4, 2026 · ▶ Video
Border Patrol Tracked Him in Real Time & His Old Guilty Plea Buried Him in the New Crime
March 4, 2026 · ▶ Video
Probation Officer Walked Into Her Home Without a Warrant — Federal Court Says UNCONSTITUTIONAL
February 25, 2026 · ▶ Video
Police Get Confession with Undercover Cellmate and Fake Lineup VIOLATES Miranda Rights
February 18, 2026 · ▶ Video
New 2025 Federal Sentencing Guidelines Just Changed Everything for Drug Cases. Are You Eligible?
December 24, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can Police Search a Bag in Your Car Without a Warrant? | California v. Acevedo and 4th Amendment
December 17, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 9: Everything you need to know about your SENTENCING.
November 12, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 8: Prosecution can’t hide evidence favorable to accused
October 29, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 7: Privacy rights in the digital age. Cell Phone GEO data
October 15, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 6: Can we get evidence excluded from trial & case dismiss
October 8, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 5: Can Police Search Your Car Without a Warrant?
Guide · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 4: Stop-and-Frisk & the Fourth Amendment Explained
Guide · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 3: Katz – The Case That Changed Privacy Forever.
September 10, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 2: Gideon – Do You Really Get to Choose a Free Lawyer?
September 3, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 10 Criminal Law Cases and Myths | PART 1: Think You Know Your Miranda Rights?
August 27, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can a Mental Health Diagnosis Years After a Crime Still Get You Out of Prison? Diversion PC 1001.36
August 20, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can University of California Ban Undocumented Students From Campus Jobs? Discrimination or Adherence
August 13, 2025 · ▶ Video
He Thought It Was His Cousin’s House. Was It Burglary? | People v. Hendrix (2022)
August 6, 2025 · ▶ Video
Expunged But Not Forgotten: How the Feds Use ‘Dismissed’ Charges Against You. Is PC 1203.4 worth it?
July 23, 2025 · ▶ Video
Tom Homan claims ICE officers ‘don’t need probable cause’ to ‘briefly detain’ people. Is that true?
July 16, 2025 · ▶ Video
Firearm Ban After Domestic Violence? 9th Circuit Shakes Up Federal Firearm Law! #2ndamendment
July 9, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can You Refuse to Talk, Cooperate, Open the Door to Police or ICE While on Parole or Probation?
July 2, 2025 · ▶ Video
ICE’s “Knock and Arrest” Tactics Deemed Unconstitutional – Do NOT Enter Curtilage Without a Warrant
June 18, 2025 · ▶ Video
Trunk Search Without a Warrant? Court Says That Went Too Far Even Under Automobile Exception.
June 11, 2025 · ▶ Video
Police Must UNDERSTAND LAWS, They Are Entrusted to Enforce and Obey. No Registration Sticker Needed
May 14, 2025 · ▶ Video
Police Officer Claims He Could Hear Marijuana Being Loaded into a Car. Marijuana has Sound?
May 7, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can Police Stop a Car for Weaving WITHIN a Lane and Briefly Touching the Fog/Shoulder White Line?
April 30, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can Police Pull Over Hispanic Males Because They Drove Careful Like “Didn’t Want to Get Pulled Over”
April 23, 2025 · ▶ Video
Immigration Pulled Over a Car Because the Occupants Were Hispanic and “Kind of Dirty Looking.”
April 16, 2025 · ▶ Video
Police Can’t Enter a Home & Seize Firearms Without a Warrant Under “Community Caretaking Exception”
April 9, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can US Customs and Border Protection search your tech, including a cellphone and laptop?
April 2, 2025 · ▶ Video
Immigration Detentions Up, Federal Prosecutions Down: What’s Going On Under Trump’s Second Term?
March 26, 2025 · ▶ Video
Federal Court Can Give LOWER Sentence to Defendant Who DIDN’T Know the Purity of the Drugs Delivered
March 12, 2025 · ▶ Video
Police Detained Occupants in Handcuffs for 3 Hours in Garage & Questioned About Immigration Status.
March 5, 2025 · ▶ Video
Fire Scene Searches: Do Arson Investigators Need a Warrant? Does 4th Amendment Apply to Fire Dept.?
February 19, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can Police Stop a Car If the Owner’s License Is Revoked — Without Confirming Who’s Driving?
February 12, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can Police Without a Warrant Enter Private Property to Search a Car Parked Near a House? Check VIN?
February 5, 2025 · ▶ Video
Can Police Search a Car If The Arrested Person Was Already Outside the Vehicle When Police Arrived?
January 29, 2025 · ▶ Video
Police Peer Through a Gap in Closed Blinds — Do Social Guests Have 4th Amendment Protection?
January 15, 2025 · ▶ Video
Man who racked up a pile of parking tickets argued that there was NO NOTICE to tow his car! 14th Amd
January 8, 2025 · ▶ Video
Top 3 of 2024: Police enter home without a warrant to arrest a felon, ruse checkpoint, & containers
January 1, 2025 · ▶ Video
Smoking marijuana two hours prior and bloodshot eyes alone aren’t enough for a DUI arrest.
December 25, 2024 · ▶ Video
Stopped for Broken Taillight, Restrained & Searched Because of High-Crime Area Late at Night.
December 18, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can police search your HOME to seize your CELL PHONE anytime they suspect you of a crime?
December 11, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police prolong traffic stop by asking UBER driver why he took his PASSENGER near a high crime area.
December 4, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police tried to manufacture some reason to prolong motorist’s detention. Asked a bunch of questions.
November 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police prolonged a stop by waiting for a K-9 unit to arrive because driver had air freshers.
November 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police detained an innocent guy, who didn’t match description and had no connection to the crime
November 13, 2024 · ▶ Video
Do you have to stop at the Agricultural Checkpoints? California Department of Food and Agriculture.
November 6, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police stop every motorist at checkpoint to ask about a hit-and-run accident. Unreasonable seizure?
October 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
After waiting just 20 seconds, police used a battering ram on the door to execute a search warrant.
October 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Do NOT use ChatGPT for your legal research! Police search a home after intercepting a mail package.
October 16, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can police search your home if they found a small amount of drugs in your car during a traffic stop?
October 9, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police persistently pounded on the front door and windows for 2.5 minutes at 9:00 at night.
October 2, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police Demanded the Resident Open the Door for Visual Inspection, Followed by Forced Entry.
September 25, 2024
Can police operate a drug checkpoint or does the roadblock violate the 4th Amendment?
September 11, 2024 · ▶ Video
A Game of Russian Roulette Ended in a Shooting Death. Police Search Witness’s Room Without a Warrant
September 4, 2024 · ▶ Video
ATF agents LIED to the resident that someone had planted a BOMB to gain CONSENT to search.
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Conclusory statements and general claims of expertise by police do not establish probable cause
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
DOJ to reclassify cannabis to schedule III, drug priors trigger mandatory min., say sorry to a cop.
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Felon in Possession Unconstitutional, Right to Protest, and Cryptocurrency, own cases
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
NO PROBABLE CAUSE to ARREST, just being close to the wrong people at the wrong time.
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police aimed his gun at her nose, told her to freeze, and detained: ARREST and NOT a “Terry Stop.”
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police enter a home WITHOUT consent for welfare check, find woman unharmed, ILLEGALLY search anyway.
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police Helicopter Lit Up the Suspect’s House Like a Christmas Tree. Forcing to exit = illegal arrest
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police searched ENTIRE vehicle without a warrant or authority. Limitations on consent!
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police took the man’s phone and ANSWERED an incoming call IMPERSONATING the person being arrested.
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
When cops can’t find house number 3171, they execute the warrant at 3170. Seems legit, right?
August 30, 2024 · ▶ Video
I was just a passenger in the car with secret compartments filled with pounds of drugs. Am I Guilty?
August 26, 2024 · ▶ Video
NOT a crime for citizen to refuse entry to her home to police who do not have an appropriate warrant
August 26, 2024 · ▶ Video
A seizure occurs when police prevents a person from leaving by keeping his driver’s license.
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Awakened at 3am, handcuffed, led shoeless and dressed only in his underwear to the police station.
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
No way of knowing that drugs found in a trash came from defendant’s residence. Invalid Warrant.
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police block a person’s car in a narrow parking lot. Was this a seizure under 4th Amendment?
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police got in wife’s car, directed her to nearby parking lot while husband was arrested at home.
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police had no reasonable suspicion to detain for 45 minutes on belief that power washer was stolen
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police holding on to your driver’s license can constitute an illegal seizure under the 4th Amendment
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Teenager detained by police was a de facto arrest! Without probable cause the arrest became illegal!
August 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can police go through your garbage left for collection outside your home WITHOUT A WARRANT?
August 22, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can police remove a car cover off a vehicle without a warrant to inspect for a VIN number?
August 22, 2024 · ▶ Video
Did police illegally seize a luggage bag when they removed it from cargo area of the bus?
August 22, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police block a one-lane driveway and not let the person leave the house. Illegal seizure of person.
August 22, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police inserted a key into car’s door to see if the car belonged to Dixon and then searched it.
August 22, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police “secured” the home & didn’t let the husband back inside after suspicious death of his wife
August 22, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can police search a bag you left behind in someone’s apartment? Jail and prison calls are recorded!
August 21, 2024 · ▶ Video
Airport Worker Searches Luggage in Hopes of Getting a Monetary $$$ Reward From the DEA.
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can CBP Search A Passenger Cabin Aboard a Cruise Ship Without Suspicion of Criminal Activity?
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can Police Prolong a Traffic Stop to Pat Down and Frisk a Driver Because He Wears a Fanny Pack?
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can Police Search a Tent Illegally Placed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land Without a Warrant?
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Extended Roadside Questioning: Don’t Let Police Use “Just One More Thing” Line of Questioning.
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Is it Legal for Police to Enter an Attached Garage Without a Warrant to Arrest a Drug Trafficker?
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Know Your Rights: Can Police Search a Tent Located on a Public Campground? Can They Arrest Occupant?
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Messy Vehicle Interior Doesn’t Justify Extended Police Traffic Stop and K9 Search.
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Outrageous: Wearing a Fanny Pack Over Your Shoulder Could Land You in a Police Search!?!
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
Unlawful Police Home Entry: Violating Fourth Amendment Rights of House Guests | Girlfriend Apartment
August 20, 2024 · ▶ Video
How Dog Sniffs and Unrelated Inquiries Can Turn a Traffic Stop into a Constitutional Violation
July 31, 2024 · ▶ Video
Understanding the 4th Amendment: What Happened with the Abandoned Vehicle?
July 31, 2024 · ▶ Video
Unlawful Trunk Search? Analyzing a Case of Police Misconduct and the Automobile Exception
July 31, 2024 · ▶ Video
Agents Point Guns and Order Home Residents Outside: Understanding the 4th Amendment and Curtilage
May 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Exigent Circumstances in DUI Cases: Did the Suspect’s Retreat to His Home Warrant Police Entry?
May 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Phone Searches at the Border: What CBP Can and Can’t Do
May 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police promises NOT to arrest, “settled notions of fundamental fairness” may require a DISMISSAL.
May 23, 2024 · ▶ Video
Disturbing Police Overreach: unreasonable GPS tracking after owner no longer drove the car
May 2, 2024 · ▶ Video
Know Your Rights: Can Cops Inquire About Probation/Parole in Routine Traffic Stops? Driver Pat-Downs
May 2, 2024 · ▶ Video
Abuse of Power? Examining Police Use of ‘Community Caretaking’ in Illegal Hotel Room Searches
May 1, 2024 · ▶ Video
Outrageous Police Action: Seizing a Van Without Warrant Authorization – Unbelievable!
May 1, 2024 · ▶ Video
PART 1: “GPS Tracking Initiated at the Border” and Continuous Surveillance Within the US. #gps
May 1, 2024 · ▶ Video
PART 2: “GPS Tracking Initiated at the Border” | 4th Amendment and Technology #gps
May 1, 2024 · ▶ Video
PART 3: “GPS Tracking Initiated at the Border” | 4th Amendment and the Border Search Doctrine
May 1, 2024 · ▶ Video
PART 4: “GPS Tracking Initiated at the Border” | US v. Ignjatov, GPS installed without a warrant
May 1, 2024 · ▶ Video
Confidentiality Clash: Can Medical Professionals Disclose Diagnostic Test Results to Law Enforcement
April 24, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police Car Searches: Passenger Arrest or ID Refusal as Grounds?
April 24, 2024 · ▶ Video
Injustice Unveiled: Shocking Police Searches Targeting Uninvolved and Innocent Property Owners
March 19, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police Ransack Vehicle for Legal 28.5g Weed Possession!
March 19, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can Cars Be Searched TWICE – at the Scene and Again at Impound Lot – Under the Automobile Exception?
February 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can the government track your eScooter (Lime) with real-time location data (GPS) without a warrant?
February 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Innocent Bystander Illegally Detained by Police with No Ties to Crime or 911 Call
February 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police cannot enter your porch or side garden and trawl for evidence with impunity. Curtilage.
February 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Police search a semi-truck hauling a ford explorer. 40 pounds of meth found. Fourth Amendment.
February 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Why did the police remove the defendant’s Buick key from his belt loop during a stop-and-frisk?
February 27, 2024 · ▶ Video
Can police search a camper truck without a warrant under a pretense of helping wife get her property
November 14, 2023 · ▶ Video
Does mere presence of LAWFUL amount of marijuana on passenger justify probable cause to search car?
November 14, 2023 · ▶ Video
Was defendant “in custody” for MIRANDA purposes following discovery of a firearm in a trash can?
November 14, 2023 · ▶ Video
Can FBI record citizens in a hotel room with a secret hidden camera without a warrant? Nerber (2000)
November 13, 2023 · ▶ Video
[RESPONSE] Nerber Video, Private Search Doctrine, Video/Audio Surveillance by Police or Citizens.
November 13, 2023 · ▶ Video
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade 2023
October 25, 2023
Florida Federal Judge tosses suit challenging GUN BAN for medical marijuana patients. (POST-BRUEN)
October 10, 2023 · ▶ Video
What is the Single-Purpose Container exception to 4th Amendment warrant requirement?
October 10, 2023 · ▶ Video
Child can’t waive privacy rights of her parents and does not have authority to consent to a search.
October 3, 2023 · ▶ Video
Opening box truck’s cargo door constitutes a search under 4th Amendment and police needed a WARRANT.
October 3, 2023 · ▶ Video
Who is the best Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego?
Guide
Can I be arrested without a warrant?
Guide
What do you do when you are falsely accused of something?
Guide
How do I bail someone out of jail?
Guide
Can police search a motorcycle saddlebag without a warrant as incident to arrest?
August 23, 2023 · ▶ Video
Officer threatens suspect that he will search his backpack in violation of the 4th Amendment, Part 1
August 23, 2023 · ▶ Video
PART 2 of Howard Case. Officer threatens a motorcyclist that he will search the rider’s backpack.
August 23, 2023 · ▶ Video
Border Patrol SEARCH cell phone WITHOUT a WARRANT by relying on search incident to arrest exception.
August 18, 2023 · ▶ Video
Charged with burglary despite not having any burglary tools and claiming to be visiting his cousin.
August 18, 2023 · ▶ Video
Judge orally approves the search of the home, but what does the 4th Amendment say about warrants?
August 18, 2023 · ▶ Video
Legal possession of ammunition raises risk to society that justifies an arrest of the driver?
August 18, 2023 · ▶ Video
Reasonable Suspicion can’t be a broad profile casting suspicion on entire categories of people
August 18, 2023 · ▶ Video
Police request for passenger to show driver’s license constituted an unlawful seizure under 4th amd.
Guide · ▶ Video
What happens if they don’t read me my Miranda rights?
Guide
How can I get my criminal case dismissed in San Diego?
Guide
What does it mean to expunge a San Diego DUI?
Guide · ▶ Video
After the end of traffic stop, police officer did not inform driver that he was free to leave.
Guide · ▶ Video
Buyer-Seller Relationship defense to conspiracy to distribute drugs. Large quantity of drugs.
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police order a passenger to stay in the car or get out? Does he need to show ID?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police SEARCH your RENTAL car if you are NOT an authorized driver on the rental agreement?
Guide · ▶ Video
Cannabis is “not contraband” and “shall not constitute the basis for detention, search, or arrest.”
Guide · ▶ Video
Difference between California Corporal Injury (PC 273.5) and Domestic Battery (PC 243(e)(1)?
Guide
Federal Firearms Trafficking | Review of Gun Control Act and Brady Act. Licensed & Private Markets.
Guide · ▶ Video
How police should NOT conduct a knock-and-talk at your door step. Illegal conduct & tainted warrant.
Guide · ▶ Video
Impermissibly prolonged traffic stop in violation of 4th Amendment. Drugs found in car – suppressed
Guide · ▶ Video
Is carrying a concealed knife or box cutter legal in California? Does the length of blade matter?
Guide · ▶ Video
Is criminal check of the driver allowed during a routine traffic stop?
Guide · ▶ Video
Pretextual inventory search conducted as a ruse for a criminal investigation. People v. Torres 2010
Guide · ▶ Video
The ins and outs of the state bail system. How do we improve it?
Guide · ▶ Video
This case is solely about a question of fact, namely consent. US v. Delgado-Salazar
Guide · ▶ Video
Who decides whether a knife is a “Dirk or Dagger” under California law? DA? Judge? Jury?
Guide · ▶ Video
Who is the 13th juror? Reverse conviction based on weight of the evidence vs. insufficient evidence.
Guide · ▶ Video
Part 6: Conspiracies | Defenses | Withdrawal (leaving) from the conspiracy. Schorovsky case
Guide · ▶ Video
Part 8: Conspiracies | Defenses | Buyer – Seller relationship is Insufficient to show a conspiracy
Guide · ▶ Video
Every parent knows that teenagers make mistakes. BuyerSeller defense to drug distribution conspiracy
Guide · ▶ Video
Part 4: Conspiracies | Prejudicial Joinder, extrajudicial confession implicates a co-defendant.
Guide · ▶ Video
Can California and Nevada robbery REALLY NOT be a crime of violence under federal law?
January 27, 2022 · ▶ Video
Defining Plain View Doctrine in Horton v. CA (1990). Lawful vantage point, not violate 4th amendment
Guide · ▶ Video
Intentionally prescribing OxyContin without a legitimate medical purpose. “Pill mill” clinic.
Guide · ▶ Video
Is transportation of marijuana a “controlled substance offense” under Career Offender guidelines?
Guide · ▶ Video
Marijuana state prior doesn’t count as “controlled substance offense” under Federal Guidelines
Guide · ▶ Video
Medical marijuana use on federal supervised release when all medically prescribed alternatives fail?
Guide · ▶ Video
Passenger REFUSES to show ID! Disobeying an UNLAWFUL order by the police officer?!?
Guide · ▶ Video
Stateless Semi-Submersible (Submarine) Vessel with 4,400 Pounds of Cocaine. Discussing my own case!
Guide · ▶ Video
Can customs officials search your car’s gas tank for drugs without reasonable suspicion or warrant?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police detain a person miles away from his home as incident to execution of a search warrant?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search a home after arresting and removing a non-consenting co-occupant? Fernandez v. CA
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search a passenger of a vehicle after making a routine traffic stop?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search your car after you’ve been handcuffed and secured as incident to a lawful arrest?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can you make a U-TURN before the border checkpoint? Reasonable suspicion to pull a vehicle over?
Guide · ▶ Video
Changing lanes, driver cover face, no rear seat, pull over to the shoulder = reasonable suspicion?
Guide · ▶ Video
Concern about noncitizens (illegal aliens), who need aid, did NOT justify search of defendant’s home
Guide · ▶ Video
Cop opens the passenger door and leans inside to speak to the driver. Illegal search? Ngumezi
Guide · ▶ Video
Don’t be taking naps during a robbery! Counting terms of imprisonment in 2 statutes but only 1 “act”
Guide · ▶ Video
Entering a home without a warrant because of an imminent threat of danger. Ryburn v. Huff
Guide · ▶ Video
Exclusionary Rule: unlawfully seized evidence cannot be used in State & Federal Courts. Mapp v. Ohio
Guide · ▶ Video
How long should police wait after knock-and-announce before making forcible entry? US v. Banks
Guide · ▶ Video
How to correctly fill out Personal Surety Bond paperwork for the Southern District of California?
Guide · ▶ Video
If you are 4th Waiver on parole/probation, cops still need probable cause to search residence.
Guide · ▶ Video
Is the passenger “detained” for the purposes of the 4th Amendment when a car is stopped? Brendlin
Guide · ▶ Video
“MAYBE I should talk to a lawyer.” Is that enough to get a lawyer under Miranda? Davis v. US (1994)
Guide · ▶ Video
One roommate tells police to STAY OUT while the other consents to a search of home? Randolph
Guide · ▶ Video
PART 1 of 5: Vehicular Searches Without a Warrant. Consent Searches.
Guide · ▶ Video
PART 2 of 5: Vehicular Searches Without a Warrant. Search Incident to a Lawful Arrest. SILA.
Guide · ▶ Video
PART 3 of 5: Vehicular Searches Without a Warrant. Automobile Exception or The Carroll Doctrine.
Guide · ▶ Video
PART 4 of 5: Vehicular Searches Without a Warrant. Inventory Searches.
Guide · ▶ Video
PART 5 of 5: Vehicular Searches Without a Warrant. Miscellaneous Concepts.
Guide · ▶ Video
“Particularly troubling false promise of access to the federal judiciary” by interrogating officer.
Guide · ▶ Video
Police cannot impound a car as pretext or an excuse to look inside for evidence of a crime. Woodard.
Guide · ▶ Video
Police can’t snoop around your front yard & peer into your windows for 15 minutes without a warrant.
Guide · ▶ Video
Police enter a home without a warrant in “hot pursuit” of a misdemeanant! Lange v. California 2021
Guide · ▶ Video
Police enter home w/o reason, detain owner at gun point, take him outside, re-enter home, and search
Guide · ▶ Video
Police seize two handguns from a home without a warrant during a welfare check. Caniglia v. Strom
Guide · ▶ Video
Reasonable suspicion to stop vehicle even if you’re NOT committing a crime? Civil Traffic Violation!
Guide · ▶ Video
Revisiting the SCOPE of Terry v. Ohio frisk/search. 9th Circuit says illegal search!
Guide · ▶ Video
Roller-coaster ride through many 4th Amendment issues: Plain View, Inventory, Caretaking, Impound…
Guide · ▶ Video
The Night Stalker initially grounded in CITIZEN’s arrest. What is citizen’s arrest in California?
Guide · ▶ Video
Three car occupants. Drugs in the car. Is there probable cause to arrest the driver or all three?
Guide · ▶ Video
What should you do while on pre-trial release? Post-offense rehabilitation. Gall v. United States
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police get your historical location information from your cell phone provider without a warrant?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police have their K9 sniff at your front door without a warrant? Florida v. Jardines.
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police monitor your movement on public street with a GPS device without a Warrant? | Jones 2012
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search a rental car without a warrant or your consent? | Byrd v. United States
Guide · ▶ Video
4th Amendment case by Hon. Amy Coney Barrett. Anonymous 911 call enough reasonable suspicion?
Guide · ▶ Video
Safety-valve eligibility, mandatory minimum sentences, relevant conduct, and a gun.
Guide · ▶ Video
Searching bags or containers in your car without a warrant? Automobile Exception? CA v. Acevedo
Guide · ▶ Video
Valid arrest warrant. Person is arrested in his home. Can police still look around the house?
Guide · ▶ Video
What does the police need to have before seizing or arresting someone? Dunaway v. New York
Guide · ▶ Video
What is Minor Role reduction? How to calculate the federal sentencing guidelines in drug offenses?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search your car WITHOUT a warrant just because it’s an automobile? Chambers v. Maroney
Guide · ▶ Video
Does a Motor Home fall under automobile exception or does police need to get a warrant to search?
Guide · ▶ Video
The word AUTOMOBILE is not a talisman in whose presence the 4th Amendment fades away and disappears!
Guide · ▶ Video
Are Curfew Laws and Regulations Constitutional? It depends. 1st Amd: Freedom of Speech and Assembly.
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search YOUR home if they have an arrest warrant for someone else? Steagald v. US
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police search YOUR home with ONLY an arrest warrant? | Search Incident to Arrest | Chimel v. CA
Guide · ▶ Video
Don’t keep all of your apples in one glove compartment! Search of Glove Box Incident to Arrest.
Guide · ▶ Video
How to determine drug quantity and purity when drugs were never seized? US v. Houston
Guide · ▶ Video
Knock and announce rule – an element of reasonableness inquiry under 4th Amendment? | Wilson v. AR
Guide · ▶ Video
Police feel up and squeeze passenger’s carry-on bag? Let’s get physical with Bond v. US (2000).
Guide · ▶ Video
Right of privacy against a right of search must be decided by a judicial officer, not by a policeman
Guide · ▶ Video
Can a cop tell you, “hold a sec” and really expect you to walk away? Seizure under 4th Amendment?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police get a list of numbers you called from your phone company w/o warrant? | Smith v. Maryland
Guide · ▶ Video
Can police listen to your conversation without a warrant? What’s a phone booth? | Katz v. USA
Guide · ▶ Video
Growing a marijuana plant in your bedroom window during the 2020 quarantine? | Plain View Doctrine
Guide · ▶ Video
San Diego Federal Court closure | Coronavirus (Covid-19) | Update for clients and public 3/17/2020.
March 17, 2020 · ▶ Video
Sentencing hearing is very important in a criminal case. Having a good attorney helps! Object to PSR
Guide · ▶ Video
Searching Cell Phones and Computers at Airports and Ports of Entry | USA v. Williams
Guide · ▶ Video
How to prepare for the detention hearing in Federal Court. | Release, Detention, Bail Bond Hearings.
Guide · ▶ Video
What happens at the federal arraignment hearing? Arraigned on Information or Indictment?
Guide · ▶ Video
Can a confession be used against you in court just because you waived Miranda rights?
Guide · ▶ Video
Why fighting minor in possession (BP 25662) charge is important? Driver License Suspension
Guide · ▶ Video
How long can police hold a person’s cell phone without searching it or giving back? US v. Pratt
Guide · ▶ Video
What if two statutes seem to criminalize the same conduct? Perjury vs. False Statement
Guide · ▶ Video
Three (3) things to consider when charged in a drug case in Federal Court.
Guide · ▶ Video
Can you get pulled over for flipping off a cop? | CRUISE-GULYAS v. MINARD
March 20, 2019 · ▶ Video
U.S. v. Knapp: Can Police Search a Handcuffed Suspect’s Purse?
March 13, 2019 · ▶ Video
Does a woman in a bathrobe have authority to consent to a search of a home? | US v. Terry
February 22, 2019 · ▶ Video
Reasonable Suspicion for Border Patrol to Stop a Vehicle on Interstate 8 | US v. Rodriguez
February 16, 2019 · ▶ Video
I hear you knocking, but you can’t come in. Exigent Circumstances | US v. Lundin
January 15, 2019 · ▶ Video
4th Amendment Waiver does not permit cops to search you… | United States v. Job
January 10, 2019 · ▶ Video
Class action after getting injured in a sport and return-to-game protocol. | USA Water Polo
December 6, 2018 · ▶ Video
Being on probation does not mean all constitutional rights were waived. | Brennan v. Dawson.
November 21, 2018 · ▶ Video
A man’s house is his castle! The owner cannot be excluded from its sanctuary. | U.S. v. SHRUM
November 20, 2018 · ▶ Video
What can police search for during a protective sweep of the house? | United States v. Raymond Brown
November 8, 2018 · ▶ Video
FBI running a child porn website? Internet privacy and TOR. | USA v. Henderson
October 25, 2018 · ▶ Video
Can police come to your house, lift the motorcycle cover, and run the plates? | Collins v. Virginia
October 19, 2018 · ▶ Video
Usually not a good idea to represent yourself, especially in a criminal case. | People v. Ramos
September 26, 2018 · ▶ Video
Can CHP seize a million-dollar car while the parties fight over it? | Lawrence v. Superior Court
September 4, 2018 · ▶ Video
Can 20 seconds of questioning unlawfully extend a traffic stop? | United States v. Lujan
August 23, 2018 · ▶ Video
Are K9 searches ever allowed during a traffic stop? | ILLINOIS v. CABALLES.
August 21, 2018 · ▶ Video
How long can police hold you after issuing a ticket? | Prolonged Police Stop
August 16, 2018 · ▶ Video
NEW trick getting your traffic ticket dismissed! Move the Courthouse!
August 15, 2018 · ▶ Video
The Confession Tapes | Miranda Warning | San Diego Case
August 6, 2018 · ▶ Video
Trump’s border wall and the Fourth Amendment.
Guide · ▶ Video
What If No Criminal Charges Were Filed On My Court Date?
Guide · ▶ Video
Gestures Alone Are Not Considered to be Criminal Threats.
Guide
Пьяный в общественном месте | Уголовный Кодекс Калифорнии 647 (f) | PC 647
Guide
Кража | Уголовный Кодекс 484. (PC 484)
Guide
Federal Personal Appearance Bond | Southern District of California | San Diego
Guide · ▶ Video
San Diego Alternative Sentences to Imprisonment
Guide
San Diego SCRAM Continuous Alcohol Monitoring Program
Guide
DUI dismissed after police officers move the DUI suspect.
Guide
Can a company be prosecuted in the same way as an individual?
Guide
Construction Defects Attorney in San Diego, California
Guide
§ 1341 and 1343 | Mail And Wire Fraud Attorney In San Diego, California
Guide
What is an ARANDA-BRUTON motion?
Guide
Does driving a car in ONE state with registration tags from ANOTHER make you a suspicious person?
August 25, 2016
Sexual Battery & Sexual Assault | California PC 243.4
Guide
Bank can’t pursue in San Diego a $31M judgment from foreign court.
June 23, 2016
ENFORCING A FOREIGN-COUNTRY JUDGMENT
Guide
San Diego Business Directory
Guide
FORMS
Guide
The Next to Die
February 24, 2016
Why African-Americans don’t trust the courts, and why it matters.
February 19, 2016
Freedom to read books all day.
February 17, 2016
The most important issue in the next presidential election will be who will fill the Supreme Court vacancies.
February 15, 2016
Who will replace Scalia?
February 15, 2016
Super Bowl Update!
February 5, 2016
Adnan Syed from the “Serial” podcast gets another day in court
February 4, 2016
Judge: “You’ve got a good attorney that pulled a rabbit out of the hat for you.”
Guide
Testimonial: Client Thank You Letter
Guide
Burglary | California Penal Code 459 [PC 459]
Guide
California Reckless Driving| California Vehicle Code 23103 | CVC23103
Guide
Can I complete California DUI school/course out of state?
Guide
Can I get resentenced under Prop. 47 | (PC) 1170.18 | San Diego Prop 47 Attorney
Guide
Can I mail marijuana via USPS?
Guide
Check Fraud | California Penal Code 476 | PC 476
Guide
DMV Administrative Hearing (DUI: Alcohol/Drugs)
Guide
Do I need to be present at the arraignment?
Guide
Driving Under Influence of Alcohol (DUI Alcohol)| California Vehicle Code Section 23152 | VC 23152
Guide
Drunk in Public | California Penal Code 647(f) | PC 647
Guide
Electronic Monitoring in Lieu of Bail. (PC 1203.018)
Guide
Federal Clemency Attorneys- More Drug Offenders Will Be Eligible For Relief
Guide
Forgery | PC 470
Guide
Home Detention (PC 1203.016 and 1203.017)
Guide
How can I get a court to appoint a lawyer for my case?
Guide
I missed the court date and now I have a warrant out for my arrest. What Should I Do?
Guide
Is a misdemeanor conviction public record?
Guide
Legal Rights Info-Graphic
Guide
Miranda Warning – Custodial Interrogation
Guide
Modification or Termination of Probation
Guide
Presumption of Innocence
Guide
Public Defenders vs Private Attorneys
Guide
Receiving Stolen Property | PC 496
Guide
Robbery | California Penal Code 211 | PC 211
Guide
Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney Before Seeking a Bail Bondsmen?
Guide
Theft Crimes (Larceny, Larceny by trick, Embezzlement, False Pretenses)| PC 484 | PC 488
Guide
What happens at the arraignment?
Guide
What Happens Between an Arrest and the Jury Trial?
Guide
What Should I Do If I Am Pulled Over For DUI?
Guide
Why is my bail bondsman asking for my license plate number?
Guide
Arson | PC 451
Guide
Assault Penal Code Section 240
Guide
Assault with a Deadly Weapon | California Penal Code 245(a)(1) [PC 245(a)(1)]
Guide
Battery | California Penal Code 242 [PC 242]
Guide
Brandishing a Weapon, Gun or Firearm | Penal Code 417 | PC 417
Guide
California Gun Crimes
Guide
Can a vehicle be searched by police officers if they smell marijuana outside of the vehicle?
Guide
Driving Under Influence of Marijuana | California Vehicle Code Section 23152 | VC 23152
Guide
Manufacturing a Controlled Substance (Marijuana, Hash Oil, etc.) | HS 11379.6(a)
Guide
Marijuana Cultivation, Harvest, Plant | HS 11358
Guide
Marijuana Sale, Giving Away, Transportation | California Health and Safety Code Section 11360 | HS 11360
Guide
Modification or Termination of Probation under PC 1203.3
Guide
Possession of a Controlled Substance in California | 11350 (a) HS
Guide
Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell |HS 11351
Guide
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia | California Health and Safety Code 11364 | HS 11364
Guide
Possession of Marijuana for Sale | Health and Safety Code 11359 |HS 11359
Guide
Possession of Methamphetamine (Meth) | HS 11377
Guide
Proposition 36: Drug treatment program as an alternative to jail time.
Guide
Resisting Arrest | PC 148(a)(1)
Guide
Transportation for Sale of a Controlled Substance| HS 11352
Guide
Transporting Marijuana across International Border
Guide
What to do if pulled over with marijuana in trunk of car working for marijuana dispensary?
Guide
When can police stop and search my vehicle?
Guide

Or browse by topic: California Crimes · Drug Charges · 4th Amendment & Searches

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September 30, 2026 · ▶ Video
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