Criminal Defense Archives

November 4, 2026 | Criminal Defense

What Is a Grand Jury and How Does It Work in California?

A California criminal grand jury hears evidence and decides whether there is probable cause to formally accuse someone of a felony through an indictment. Under the California Constitution and Penal Code, prosecutors can pursue a felony either by grand jury indictment or by filing an information after a preliminary hearing. In San Diego, a criminal […]

October 29, 2026 | Criminal Defense

Do You Have a Warrant? How To Find Out in San Diego County

If you think there’s a warrant out for you in San Diego County, you don’t have to wait for police to show up to find out. You can check court records, contact the appropriate court, or ask a criminal defense lawyer to look into the matter for you. An outstanding warrant can lead to an […]

October 13, 2026 | Criminal Defense

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 […]

September 22, 2026 | Criminal Defense

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

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 11, 2026 | Criminal Defense

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

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 4, 2026 | Criminal Defense

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 3, 2026 | Criminal Defense

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

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 […]