San Diego Criminal Defense Blog

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 […]

August 4, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

What Is the Average Cost of a Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego?

Facing criminal charges in San Diego as a defendant is stressful enough without having to worry about how much a lawyer will cost. However, learning about what you can expect to pay is an important first step in building your defense. The truth is that costs can range widely depending on the type of case […]

July 24, 2026 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

How to Successfully Recant a Domestic Violence Statement

A domestic violence allegation can have serious consequences for everyone involved. In some situations, the person who made the original report later decides they want to change or withdraw their statement. However, recanting a domestic violence statement is often more complicated than many people realize, especially once law enforcement has become involved. If a domestic […]

July 3, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

What To Do After Being Arrested

Being arrested in San Diego, California, can leave you with more questions than answers. Whether this is your first encounter with the criminal justice system or you have been arrested before, what you do in the hours and days that follow can affect your case. While every situation is different, taking the right steps early […]

June 22, 2026 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

Can AI Be Used to Fabricate Evidence in a Criminal Case?

Artificial intelligence is changing nearly every industry, and the criminal justice system is no exception. San Diego criminal defense attorney Peter Blair recently spoke with NBC 7 San Diego about a concern that legal professionals across the country are beginning to take seriously: the use of AI to create, alter, or fabricate evidence in criminal […]