San Diego Criminal Attorney

Are you facing criminal charges in greater San Diego and looking for answers? Whether you’ve been arrested for DUI, assault, fraud, drugs, theft, or another offense, the attorneys at RJT Criminal Defense can help. Led by experienced criminal defense lawyer Brandon Naidu, we understand what it takes to provide you with the best chance of a dismissal, a reduction in the charges against you, or a not guilty verdict.

The fact is that when charges are formulated by the police and the prosecutors, they have significant leeway in identifying what laws you’ll be charged under. A simple shoplifting charge, for example, could wind up as a burglary case. The penalties, as well as the availability of alternative sentencing, vary greatly from case to case, even where the underlying facts are essentially the same.

This is where experience, reputation, and negotiation come into play, and having the right lawyer at your side can make all the difference when it comes to reining in excessive charges and penalties. Don’t leave your case, or your future, to chance. Contact RJT Criminal Defense and find out what we can do for you.

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what our clients have to say

san diego criminal attorney

Experience, Honesty, Dedication

Being charged with a crime carries with it more than enough fear and anxiety.  You don’t want to add additional insecurity over the way you will be represented by your attorney.

At RJT Criminal Defense, we will listen to what you have to say about your case, review all the facts, and provide you with an honest and straightforward evaluation of where you stand.

  • We will also lay out in plain language a strategy for obtaining the best possible result. We will undertake whatever investigation is appropriate, and develop evidence favorable to your defense.
  • We understand the plea bargain process, and we know what type of deal can be struck with the prosecutor.
  • And we are not afraid to take your case to trial if that provides the best alternative for you.

From beginning to end, you will be kept informed of the status of the case, and we will always place your interests first.  This means, among other things, that we will be aggressive and proactive, and take the steps necessary to place you in the best possible position for a successful result.

We will fight for your rights.

Your San Diego Legal Defense Team

  • san diego criminal attorney

    Brandon Naidu – Criminal Attorney
  • criminal defense attorney ryan tegnilia

    Ryan Tegnelia
  • executive director josh vargas

    Josh Vargas

Practice Areas

  • DUI Defense

  • White Collar Crimes Defense

  • Sex Crimes Defense

  • Domestic Violence Defense

  • Drugs Defense

  • Attempted Murder Defense

  • Violent Crimes Defense

  • Prostitution Defense

  • Felony Defense

  • Grand Theft Auto Defense

  • Illegal Possession of a Firearm Defense

  • Manslaughter Defense
View All Practice Areas

frequently asked questions (FAQs)

If you are arrested, stay calm and avoid resisting, as this can escalate the situation. Politely ask why you are being arrested and remember your right to remain silent. Do not provide any information beyond your name and basic identification details without a lawyer present. Avoid making statements or explanations, as they could be used against you later. Request legal representation immediately and do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney. If possible, take note of the officers’ names and badge numbers, as well as any witnesses to the arrest. Follow instructions respectfully, but assert your rights when necessary.

RJT Criminal Lawyer San Diego’s practice areas page covers a comprehensive range of criminal defense services. We handle DUI defense for both misdemeanor and felony charges, as well as an extensive array of drug crimes including fentanyl, marijuana, prescription drug offenses, and drug transportation cases.

We provide defense for violent crimes such as assault with a deadly weapon, attempted murder, manslaughter, and homicide, along with domestic violence cases. Our sex crimes defense practice includes representation for sexual battery, rape defense, and child molestation allegations.

Theft-related offenses are well-represented, covering general theft, grand theft, and grand theft auto (GTA) charges. We also handle weapons charges, specifically illegal firearm possession cases. White collar crime defense spans both state-level offenses and federal white collar crimes including fraud, bribery, and securities violations.

Additional practice areas include prostitution-related charges (solicitation and loitering), general felony defense, and military civilian defense for service members facing criminal charges in civilian courts. We’ve recently expanded into personal injury representation, which is a departure from their core criminal defense focus.

If you are being investigated, you have several important rights to protect yourself. You have the right to remain silent, meaning you do not have to answer questions that could incriminate you.

You also have the right to an attorney, and it’s highly recommended to consult one before speaking with investigators. If law enforcement wants to search your property, they generally need a warrant, and you have the right to ask for one.

Additionally, you have the right to be treated fairly and not be subjected to coercion or intimidation. It’s important to stay calm, know your rights, and seek legal advice to ensure your interests are protected throughout the process.

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer can vary widely depending on several factors, including the lawyer’s experience, reputation, and location, as well as the complexity of the case. For less serious charges, lawyers may charge a flat fee ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

For more complex cases, such as felonies, the cost can rise significantly, often starting at $10,000 and going much higher. Some lawyers charge hourly rates, which typically range from $150 to $500 per hour. Additionally, there may be extra costs for court fees, expert witnesses, or other legal expenses. It’s important to discuss fees upfront with any lawyer to understand what’s included and whether payment plans are available.

The distinction comes down to severity of the offense and the corresponding punishment. A misdemeanor is a less serious crime, typically punishable by up to one year in county or local jail, fines, probation, or community service. Common examples include petty theft, simple assault, trespassing, and first-time DUI offenses. A felony is a more serious crime that carries harsher penalties, including imprisonment in state or federal prison for more than one year, substantial fines, and long-term consequences like loss of voting rights or firearm ownership. Examples include murder, robbery, burglary, and drug trafficking.

Many states further classify these into degrees or classes (Class A, B, C misdemeanors or first, second, third-degree felonies) to distinguish severity within each category. Some offenses can be charged as either, depending on circumstances. These are often called “wobblers,” where factors like prior criminal history, the amount stolen, or whether injury occurred determine how prosecutors file charges.

Every case is different, but yes, getting charges dropped or reduced is often possible and is one of our primary goals. As former prosecutors, our attorneys understand exactly how the District Attorney’s office builds cases and where weaknesses exist.

We thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case, challenge questionable evidence, and identify procedural errors that could lead to dismissal. When dismissal isn’t possible, we leverage our extensive relationships within San Diego’s legal community to negotiate favorable plea agreements that minimize the impact on your life.

During your free consultation, we’ll provide an honest assessment of the potential outcomes specific to your situation.

If law enforcement contacts you, remain calm and polite but exercise your constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent: you are not required to answer questions beyond providing basic identification. Politely decline to answer questions and state that you wish to speak with an attorney before making any statements. Do not consent to searches of your person, vehicle, or home without a warrant. Do not resist physically, even if you believe your rights are being violated. Contact us immediately at (619) 577-0868, we’re available 24/7, and we can advise you on how to proceed and protect your rights from the earliest stages of an investigation.

Choose The Right San Diego Criminal Lawyer

If you are facing any criminal charge, the potential consequences can be enormous. These are serious matters, and at RJT Criminal Defense, we can help. Call Ryan J. Tegnelia today to schedule a free consultation.

Contact Us Now for a Free Consultation