San Diego Criminal Defense Blog

April 15, 2025 | Criminal Law | Peter Blair

What Happens if a Defendant Cannot Afford a Lawyer?

The Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees your right to have a lawyer when you face criminal charges. This protection means you do not have to stand alone against government prosecutors and law enforcement. Legal representation is vital in criminal cases, as it helps protect your rights and guide you through the legal process, […]

April 9, 2025 | California Law | Peter Blair

What’s the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Defense Lawyer?

If you’re facing criminal charges, hiring a lawyer is one of the best decisions you can make. The specific attorney you choose can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Therefore, understanding the difference between a criminal lawyer and a defense lawyer is essential. The terms criminal lawyer and defense lawyer are […]

April 7, 2025 | Criminal Law | Peter Blair

How To Afford a Criminal Lawyer

Criminal defense lawyers can be expensive. In fact, many of them charge more than many criminal defendants can afford—to the tune of hundreds of dollars per hour. If you anticipate having trouble paying for the best criminal defense, know that you have certain options available to you. Not all of these options are equal, however, […]

April 3, 2025 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

How Often Do DUI Cases Go to Trial?

In California, a driving under the influence (DUI) charge can mean major penalties, such as license suspensions, hefty fines, and possibly jail time. If you’re facing DUI charges, one of your biggest worries might be whether you’ll end up going to trial. The quick answer is that most DUI cases do not go all the […]

March 24, 2025 | Sex Crimes | Peter Blair

Surprising Things That Can Make You a Sex Offender

California prosecutors and courts treat sex crime charges very seriously. The penalties for sex crimes can be harsh. A conviction for a sex crime could result in thousands of dollars in fines and years or decades in prison. In addition to fines and prison, you may also be required to register as a sex offender. […]

February 25, 2025 | California Law | Peter Blair

Can You Be Prosecuted For Causing Someone’s Suicide in California?

If someone close to you has died by suicide and you learn that authorities may be looking into possible criminal liability, you could feel terrified and confused about your legal rights. In California, you may wonder whether you can be charged for “causing” another person’s suicide, and the legal questions surrounding this issue can be […]

February 13, 2025 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

5 Tips To Choose the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego

Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, as the stakes are often high and the outcomes life-changing. During such times, having a skilled criminal defense lawyer by your side is essential. If you’re in San Diego or in San Diego County, California, choosing the right attorney ensures that you have an advocate to defend your rights […]

January 17, 2025 | Criminal Law | Peter Blair

What Happens When a California Wildfire Was Caused By Arson?

The recent wildfires in California have caused widespread devastation, and what makes this tragedy even more alarming is the possibility that many, if not most, were started by arson. Arson, particularly when it leads to widespread damage like that seen in these wildfires, is a serious crime with severe legal consequences. In this blog, we […]

December 12, 2024 | DUI | Peter Blair

Is There a Difference Between a DWI and a DUI in California?

The most common terms that states use to refer to drunk driving are DWI and DUI. The term DUI means driving under the influence. Some states use the term DWI, which stands for driving while intoxicated. However, California law doesn’t make a distinction between the two, and California courts generally prefer to use the term […]

November 26, 2024 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

What to Do If You’re Arrested at the San Diego Zoo

If you ever find yourself facing the unexpected situation of being arrested at a high-profile public place like the San Diego Zoo, it’s crucial to stay calm and understand your rights. Despite the family-friendly environment that venues like zoos aim to provide, an arrest can occur for various reasons. Consulting a San Diego criminal defense […]