San Diego Criminal Defense Blog

October 13, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

What Triggers a Federal Criminal Investigation in San Diego?

A federal criminal investigation in San Diego, CA, can begin whenever federal authorities receive information suggesting that a federal crime may have occurred. A tip, financial record, related criminal case, agency referral, grand jury evidence, or information gathered by local law enforcement can all lead federal investigators to begin examining a person or business. The […]

October 13, 2026 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

What Are the Predictable Patterns of Abuse?

Abuse can, but does not always, involve physical violence. It can include repeated behaviors that make someone feel afraid, controlled, or dependent on another person. Some of the most common patterns of abuse include controlling behavior, emotional manipulation, isolation, threats, financial control, escalating aggression, and temporary periods of reconciliation. These behaviors can develop gradually or […]

October 9, 2026 | Sex Crimes | Peter Blair

Is Public Urination a Crime in California?

There’s no statewide statute that prohibits public urination in California, but you can still be arrested and charged with a crime. Most of these cases come from local rules. Many California cities and counties have their own ordinances making it illegal to urinate in public. For example, Los Angeles has a municipal code provision covering […]

October 5, 2026 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

What Counts as Weak Evidence in a San Diego Domestic Violence Case?

Domestic violence cases in San Diego, CA, can involve very different versions of what happened. Police and prosecutors may look at statements, photos, medical records, text messages, 911 calls, and other evidence when deciding how to handle a case. Evidence may be weak when it is inconsistent, unreliable, missing important context, or contradicted by other […]

September 22, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

What Not To Tell Your Criminal Defense Attorney (And Why It Matters)

If you have been accused of a crime in California, you may wonder whether there are things you should not tell your lawyer. In most cases, withholding relevant facts can make it harder for your attorney to prepare your defense. Attorney-client privilege protects many confidential communications, but there are limits, particularly when a client seeks […]

September 22, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

Public Defender vs. Private Attorney vs. Court-Appointed Counsel: What’s the Difference?

If you are charged with a crime in California, you may have several options for legal representation. Depending on your financial circumstances and the case, you may be represented by a public defender, another court-appointed attorney, or a private criminal defense lawyer. Although all three can provide criminal defense representation, there are important differences in […]

September 18, 2026 | Criminal Law | Peter Blair

Can a Restraining Order or Injunction Show up on My Record?

A restraining order is a type of injunction, which is a court order requiring or prohibiting certain conduct. In California, a restraining order or injunction can create a court record, and some case information may be publicly available. Because these orders are often issued in civil proceedings, they do not automatically create a criminal conviction. […]

September 11, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

State vs. Federal Criminal Charges: What’s the Difference and Why Does It Matter?

State criminal charges allege a violation of California law, while federal charges allege a violation of federal law. In San Diego, that difference determines which prosecutors handle the case, where it is heard, which procedural rules apply, and what penalties may follow a defendant’s conviction. Some conduct can violate both California and federal law. Knowing […]

August 21, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

If you are being investigated, arrested, or charged with a crime, the safest answer is usually: as early as possible. A case can begin long before you enter a courtroom. Statements, evidence, and decisions made at the first hearing may all affect the outcome. Early legal guidance can help you avoid preventable mistakes. When the […]

August 20, 2026 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

Can a Domestic Violence Conviction Be Expunged in San Diego, CA?

A domestic violence conviction can follow you for years after your case is closed, affecting everything from your job prospects to where you’re able to live. If you are living with this kind of conviction in San Diego, you may be wondering whether California law offers any path forward. The good news is that many […]