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Lawyers in San Diego

Lawyer Legion Information Center of San Diego County, CA

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Lawyers by Cities in San Diego County, CA

Best Attorneys in San Diego, California

Lawyer Legion Top Picks for 2024

The following list was determined using multiple factors including both objective and subjective criteria. Lawyers were selected based on their career accomplishments, high-profile and famous cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications. This list represents some of the most highly accomplished lawyers currently practicing in San Diego County and throughout California, including criminal law, civil law, personal injury law and family law

When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

  • Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
  • Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
  • It is impossible to accurately determine a statewide list of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing law.
  • It is difficult to compare lawyers who practice in different areas of the law.
Craig Rene McClellan
Craig Rene McClellan
Personal Injury and Motor Vehicle Accidents Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Jessica C. McElfresh
Jessica C. McElfresh
Marijuana Law and Criminal Defense Lawyer
Encinitas, CA
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Scott Howard Finkbeiner
Scott Howard Finkbeiner
Family Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Alreen Haeggquist
Alreen Haeggquist
Consumer Law and Employment Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Amber Eck
Amber Eck
Consumer Law and Employment Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Keith A Davidson
Keith A Davidson
Wills and Trusts Lawyer
Ontario, CA
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Jenna Marie Crisci Rangel
Jenna Marie Crisci Rangel
Consumer Law and Employment Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Sage Sepahi
Sage Sepahi
Business Law and Class Action Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Michael L Crowley
Michael L Crowley
Criminal Defense Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Samantha Greene
Samantha Greene
Criminal Defense and Family Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Merrianne Elizabeth Dean
Merrianne Elizabeth Dean
Wills and Trusts Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Michael Edward Cindrich
Michael Edward Cindrich
Criminal Defense and Business Lawyer
San Diego, CA
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Attorney Licensing in California

The State Bar of California - The State Bar of California enforces the bar rules that govern professional conduct. Approved by the California Supreme Court, the bar rules are binding upon all lawyers licensed to practice in California. One of the first states to unify its bar and make it mandatory, California requires all attorneys licensed to practice law must belong to the State Bar of California, sometimes called the "California Bar Association."

California Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

CLA - California Lawyers Association - The California Lawyers Association (CLA) is a nonprofit, voluntary organization that acts as the home for the Sections of the State Bar of California and the California Young Lawyers Association. As an organization independent from the State Bar of California, the California Lawyers Association (CLA) is focused on the professional advancement of attorneys practicing in the state of California. The CLA is a powerful network of 100,000 members.
CAOC - Consumer Attorneys of California - The CAOC is a nonprofit professional association for attorneys who focus on personal injury, wrongful death, and product safety. Founded in 1961, the Consumer Attorneys of California is an organization that provides resources and education to lawyers practicing in civil courts throughout California. The CAOC is also an advocacy organization that opposes legislation that would limit access to the civil courts.
CACJ - California Attorneys for Criminal Justice - The California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ) was formed in 1973 and is the country's largest statewide organization of criminal defense lawyers . The CACJ works to defend the rights and due process of the accused while providing quality continuing legal education to its members. Since strengthening its presence in the California State Capitol, CACJ provides the criminal defense bar with a more unified voice on legislative matters.
ACAL - Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers - The ACAL is an invitation-only society of family formation law attorneys who are licensed to practice law in California and have demonstrated extensive experience in adoption law and assisted reproduction (ART) cases. Members of the Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers practice with the highest standards of ethics and professional competence in this area of law.
ABTL - Association of Business Trial Lawyers - The ABTL is a nonprofit professional organization of lawyers practicing in the areas of business law and commercial litigation across California. The mission of the ABTL is to promote competence, excellence and professionalism within this area of practice. The Association of Business Trial Lawyers has five chapters across the state in Los Angeles, Northern California, San Diego, Orange County and the San Joaquin Valley.
CAAA - California Applicants’ Attorneys Association - The CAAA is a nonprofit professional association that serves California's injured workers and the attorneys who represent them in workers' compensation cases. The California Applicants' Attorneys Association's goals are to provide fair compensation benefits to injured workers and their families. The organization also advocates for gender equality, immigrant rights, and government accountability in workers' compensation cases.
CLA - California Lawyers for the Arts - The CLA is a professional association of lawyers who represent artists with intellectual property law, business law and contracts. Founded in 1974, the California Lawyers for the Arts provides resources and education to attorneys while advocating for the best interest of the artistic community. The organization assists the public with mediation services and referrals to attorneys while advocating for the best interests of artists and innovators.
CDLA - California DUI Lawyers Association - The California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) was founded in 1989. Attorneys in the CDLA promote the rights of the accused to encourage a fair criminal justice system with a focus on DUI charges. The CDLA uses its influence to advocate for legislative changes in the criminal justice system. The California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) is an affiliate of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and the DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA).
ACFLS - Association of Certified Family Law Specialists - The ACFLS is an independent nonprofit organization of lawyers who have earned board certification as a family law specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. The organization is dedicated to preserving and improving the practice of family law while promoting board certification for the specialty area of family law and family relations law. The ACFLS is made up of some of the best family law attorneys practicing in the state of California.
CELA - California Employment Lawyers Association - The CELA is a nonprofit association of lawyers representing plaintiffs in employment law cases against their employers. Many of California's top employment law attorneys are members. The California Employment Lawyers Association (CELA) is an affiliate of the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA). The organization provides education and resources to practicing attorneys while advocating for labor issues that are in the interest of workers across California.
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San Diego County, California Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

SDCBA - San Diego County Bar Association - The SDCBA is a nonprofit professional association of lawyers practicing in San Diego County, California. The organization provides resources and education to attorneys to improve their practice. The San Diego County Bar Association provides a Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) to assist the public with finding a qualified attorney to handle their case. The organization also advocates for issues that are important to the local community in San Diego.
Criminal Defense Bar Association of San Diego (CDBA) - The Criminal Defense Bar Association of San Diego (CDBA) is a non-profit voluntary organization of criminal defense attorneys in the greater San Diego area of California. Members have access to the CDBA newsletters, a motion bank, and listserve.
CASD - Consumer Attorneys of San Diego - Consumer Attorneys of San Diego (CASD) is a professional association dedicated to serving the needs of civil trial lawyers striving for a just and effective legal system. The organization focuses on preserving and elevating the standards of trial advocacy by providing avenues for its members to engage with each other through networking events and community outreach, ensuring they have opportunities to contribute positively to their surroundings.

Lawyer Referral Services in San Diego County, CA

Northern San Diego County - The Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) of the North County Bar Association, certified by the State Bar of California and meeting American Bar Association standards, provides free referrals to experienced, insured attorneys in Northern San Diego County. Founded in 1982, this non-profit organization has over 100 attorneys in 17 areas of law. Callers receive a free 30-minute consultation with a matched attorney based on their legal needs and location. LRS counselors assist in identifying the appropriate attorney, ensuring all communication is confidential and without obligation to hire the referred lawyer.
San Diego County - Since 1952, the Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) of the San Diego County Bar Association has connected the community with qualified, pre-screened local lawyers and legal resources, expanding to include Imperial County in 2020. The program requires all 400+ participating lawyers to meet rigorous criteria and receive approval from the San Diego County Bar Association LRIS Committee. Certified by the State Bar of California and the American Bar Association, LRIS offers referrals for traditional legal services across over 40 areas of law in San Diego and Imperial Counties, with up to 30 minutes of free consultation.

State Bar of San Diego County, CA Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS)

California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS) - The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS) includes eleven areas of specialization certified directly by the State Bar of California with an additional eleven areas certified by five different national organizations that have been accredited by the American Bar Association. One of the goals of the CBLS is to give consumers another tool to use in selecting an attorney. The Standards for Certification in each specialty area was adopted by the Board of Governors.

Specialty Areas

Admiralty and Maritime Law - Admiralty and Maritime Law is the practice of law dealing with substantive and procedural aspects of the law that governs vessels, navigation, and shipping. The term "admiralty and maritime law" also includes personal injury claims, marine pollutions, and much more. Attorneys in California who are board-certified specialists have demonstrated dedication and experience in the field of Admiralty and Maritime Law.
Appellate Law - Attorneys who are board certified in Appellate Law by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization have demonstrated significant knowledge and experience in the areas of civil and criminal appeals. Lawyers represent people throughout the appellate law process in both state and federal appellate courts, including the California Court of Appeals, the Federal Court of Appeals, the California Supreme Court, or the United States Supreme Court.
Bankruptcy Law - Bankruptcy Law is under the jurisdiction of the federal government, and bankruptcy matters are heard in federal court. There are both national and state-specific certifications. In California, the board certification for bankruptcy law is awarded by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). The bankruptcy attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in the practice of bankruptcy law to earn the board-certified specialist distinction.
Criminal Law - In California, attorneys can become certified as a Criminal Law Specialist by the State Bar of California's Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). Board-certified attorneys include criminal defense attorneys in private practice, public defenders, or prosecutors. These attorneys work within the criminal justice system at the local, state, or federal level.
Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law - For California's Board Certification program the term "estate planning, trust, and probate law" is the practice of law that includes multiple areas, for instance, creating a will or trust, and protecting assets. A trust and estate attorney who applies for board certification in California must demonstrate that within the specified period he or she has been substantially involved in the practice of estate planning, trust, and probate law. Furthermore, an attorney who is a certified specialist has demonstrated proficiency in this specialized field of law.
Family Law - Only attorneys board certified in family law can advertise or identify themselves as "certified specialists" or "board certified" in California for that field. Furthermore, the board certification for family law is awarded by the CBLS. A certified family law specialist has experience performing various types of legal matters (e.g., marital settlement agreements, legal separation dissolution, etc.)
Franchise and Distribution Law - An attorney who is a franchise and distribution law specialist assists their clients with the operation of their franchise, general business issues, and problems that come up when looking to buy or sell a franchise. Furthermore, a board-certified specialist lawyer has met the rigorous requirements of the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS), such as passing the legal specialist examination, demonstrate substantial involvement, and complete continuing education requirements.
Immigration Law - An immigration specialist is an attorney who has been board certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). He or she has demonstrated substantial involvement in the practice of immigration law. The immigration system is extraordinarily complex with many difficult issues, therefore, it is important that an attorney has an understanding of it. Immigration Specialists have met the rigorous application requirements by passing exams, demonstrating experience, and participating in the field amongst other requirements.
Legal Malpractice - Legal malpractice lawyers represent the clients in lawsuits against their former attorneys. In the state of California, an attorney can become specialized in the field of Legal Malpractice. The board certification for legal malpractice law is awarded by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). An attorney seeking certification in legal malpractice must demonstrate that during the specified time period he or she has been substantially involved in the practice area.
Taxation Law - Board certification attorneys are highly qualified attorneys who have met many requirements such as passing the legal specialist examination, demonstrate substantial involvement, and completed continuing education. Tax laws are changing every year, a specialist must understand the changes that are made to any regulations. A tax specialist is required to demonstrate involvement in the practice of taxation law and this can include handling individual income tax, real estate income tax, and/or corporate income tax.
Workers' Compensation Law - Worker’s compensation is a system designed to manage workplace injuries. Attorneys that focus on workers' compensation law involves employees' rights, employers' defenses, and benefits provided for workplace accidents. Workers' compensation law includes activities before the state administrative agencies that regulate workers' compensation claims, as well as jury trials and appellate practice. An attorney seeking board certification in Worker's Compensation Law must demonstrate that within the applicable time period the attorney has substantially involved in the specialty practice area of the law.

Law Schools in San Diego County

California Western School of Law - California Western School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Diego, California. Founded in 1924, California Western School of Law is a Private school with approximately 676 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.

California Western School of Law
225 Cedar St
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-239-0391

University of San Diego School of Law - USD School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Diego, California. Founded in 1954, University of San Diego School of Law is a Private school with approximately 742 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.

University of San Diego School of Law
5998 Alcala Park
San Diego, CA 92110
Phone: 619-260-4527

San Diego County Government and Court Resources

San Diego County Counsel

San Diego County Counsel - The Office of County Counsel of San Diego is a full-service law office addressing the County's civil law needs. It offers advisory and litigation support to the Board of Supervisors, County departments, officers, boards, and commissions. Additionally, it handles juvenile dependency cases and manages public liability claims.

San Diego County Counsel
Phone: 619-531-5600

San Diego County Departments

San Diego County Departments - San Diego County government provides diverse services including public safety, health and human services, infrastructure, and environmental management. Under the guidance of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, these agencies aim to improve resident well-being and deliver services effectively.

San Diego County District Attorney

San Diego County District Attorney - The San Diego County District Attorney's Office is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and seeking justice for victims of crime within the county. Led by the elected District Attorney, the office comprises a dedicated team of deputy district attorneys, investigators, and support staff who work tirelessly to uphold the law and ensure public safety. They handle a wide range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. In addition to prosecution, the office is committed to crime prevention, community outreach, and supporting victims through various programs and resources.

San Diego County District Attorney
330 W. Broadway
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-531-4040

San Diego County Public Defender

San Diego County Public Defender - The San Diego Public Attorney's Office works to safeguard the rights, liberties, and dignity of all individuals in San Diego County, while upholding the integrity and fairness of the American justice system through the provision of exceptional legal representation in every case entrusted to us.

San Diego County Public Defender
451 A Street, STE 900
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-338-4700

Superior Court of California, County of San Diego

Superior Court of California, County of San Diego - The Superior Court of California, San Diego County, is committed to providing fair and accessible justice to the community. It serves as the trial court for all cases within the county, handling civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, and traffic matters. The court strives to ensure the efficient, effective, and impartial administration of justice, upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all individuals who come before it.

Superior Court of California, County of San Diego
1100 Union Street
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-844-2700

Federal Courts in San Diego County, CA

United States District Court - Southern District of California - The Southern District Court encompasses the counties of Imperial and San Diego. The court is one of four (4) federal district courts in California. There are thirteen (13) judicial positions, the district has three courthouses in San Diego and one in El Centro. Additionally, the court tackles civil and criminal matters that fall under federal laws. The criminal division of the Southern District is organized into six sections; appellate, major crimes, organized crime drug enforcement task force, fraud and public corruption, national security and cybercrimes, and the forfeiture and financial litigation unit.
San Diego California Information Center
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