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. Founder Ryan J. Tegnelia is an experienced criminal defense lawyer and former prosecutor, and he understands 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 wells 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

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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

    Brandon Naidu – Criminal Attorney
  • criminal defense attorney ryan tegnilia

    Ryan Tegnelia

    Ryan Tegnelia, Legacy Partner 1980-2021
  • executive director josh vargas

    Josh Vargas

    Josh Vargas – Executive Director

Practice Areas

  • Assault with a Deadly Weapon

  • Attempted Murder

  • Child Molestation Defense

  • Civilian Defense Of Military Members

  • Domestic Violence

  • Drug Transportation

  • Drugs

  • DUI

  • Federal White Collar

  • Grand Theft Auto

  • Homicide

  • Illegal Possession of a Firearm

  • Loitering

  • Manslaughter

  • Marijuana

  • Personal Injury

  • Prescription Drug

  • Prostitution

  • San Diego Felony Defense Lawyer

  • San Diego Fentanyl Attorney

  • San Diego Grand Theft Lawyer

  • San Diego Rape Defense Lawyer

  • Sex Crimes

  • Sexual Battery

  • Soliciting Prostitution

  • Theft

  • Violent Crimes

  • Weapons

  • White Collar Crimes
View All Practice Areas

frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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’re facing criminal charges, under investigation, or have been contacted by law enforcement, it’s wise to consult a criminal defense attorney. They can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and help you avoid self-incrimination. If you’re unsure about the legal system or facing serious penalties like jail time, fines, or a criminal record, having professional legal representation is crucial.

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.

Absolutely, we specialize in helping clients with DUI charges. We’re very experienced in navigating the legal system and can provide guidance on your rights, potential defenses, and the best course of action. We’ll help negotiate reduced charges, challenge evidence like breathalyzer results, or represent you in court to minimize penalties such as fines, license suspension, or jail time. Hiring us increases your chances of a more favorable outcome.

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.

The timeline varies significantly depending on the type and complexity of your charges. Simple misdemeanor cases in San Diego may resolve within a few weeks to a few months. Felony cases typically take longer, anywhere from several months to over a year, especially if they proceed to preliminary hearings or trial.

Factors that influence timing include the court’s schedule, the complexity of evidence, whether expert witnesses are needed, and the negotiation process with prosecutors. Throughout your case, we keep you informed at every stage so you’re never left wondering what’s happening. We also work strategically to move your case forward efficiently while ensuring we never sacrifice the quality of your defense for speed.

The majority of criminal cases in San Diego County are resolved through negotiations without going to trial. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial because thorough preparation strengthens our negotiating position and ensures we’re ready if trial becomes the best option.

Our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers who aren’t afraid to take your case before a jury when that’s what’s needed to achieve the best outcome. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the likelihood of trial based on the specifics of your charges and help you understand what to expect either way.

To make the most of your free consultation, please bring any documents related to your case, including your arrest paperwork, citation or ticket, bail documentation, court dates or notices you’ve received, and any correspondence from law enforcement or the District Attorney’s office.

If you’ve been released on bail, bring those documents as well. Additionally, prepare a written timeline of events and any questions you want answered. The more information you can provide, the better we can evaluate your case and develop an effective defense strategy from day one.

We understand that facing criminal charges creates financial stress on top of everything else you’re dealing with. We work with clients to find payment arrangements that fit their budgets because everyone deserves quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.

During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your case, provide transparent information about fees, and explore payment options that work for you. We believe financial constraints shouldn’t prevent anyone from getting the experienced defense they need.

Our attorneys have extensive experience practicing in San Diego County courthouses, including the Central Division in downtown San Diego, East County (El Cajon), South Bay (Chula Vista), North County (Vista), and all surrounding jurisdictions.

We’ve built professional relationships with local judges, prosecutors, and court personnel over the years. This familiarity with local court procedures, prosecutorial tendencies, and individual courtroom practices gives our clients a significant advantage. Additionally, our founding attorney served as a prosecutor before transitioning to criminal defense, providing invaluable insight into how the other side builds and evaluates cases.

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.

Yes, we assist clients with expungement petitions under California Penal Code 1203.4. If you’ve successfully completed probation for a misdemeanor or felony conviction, you may be eligible to have your conviction dismissed and your record cleared.

Expungement can remove significant barriers to employment, housing, professional licensing, and other opportunities. We’ll review your criminal history, determine your eligibility, prepare and file the necessary paperwork, and represent you at the expungement hearing. Contact us for a consultation to find out if you qualify and how a clean record could benefit your future.

Probation violations are serious matters in San Diego County and can result in harsh consequences, including reinstatement of your original suspended sentence, additional jail or prison time, extended probation terms, increased fines, or revocation of probation entirely.

If you’ve been accused of violating your probation whether for a technical violation like missing an appointment or a substantive violation like a new arrest, contact us immediately. We can represent you at your probation violation hearing, present mitigating evidence, and advocate for alternatives to incarceration. Early intervention is critical, so don’t wait to get legal help.

Open communication is a cornerstone of our practice. We keep you informed at every stage of your case through your preferred method, phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings at our Mission Valley office. You’ll never be left in the dark wondering what’s happening with your case.

We promptly return calls and messages, provide updates after every court appearance, and make ourselves available to answer your questions and address your concerns. Our 24/7 availability means you can reach us when urgent matters arise, and we take the time to explain legal concepts in plain language so you can make informed decisions about your defense.

Penalties for criminal charges in California vary widely based on whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges, your prior criminal history, and the specific circumstances of your case. Misdemeanors can carry penalties including up to one year in county jail, fines up to $1,000 or more, probation, community service, and mandatory classes.

Felonies carry significantly harsher consequences, including state prison time, substantial fines, formal probation, and long-term impacts on your rights and future opportunities. Many offenses are “wobblers” that can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies. During your free consultation, we’ll explain the specific penalties you’re facing and discuss strategies to minimize or avoid the most serious consequences.

Yes, we represent minors facing criminal charges in San Diego County’s juvenile court system. The juvenile justice system operates differently from adult court, with a greater emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

However, the consequences of juvenile adjudication can still be significant and may impact your child’s education, future opportunities, and in serious cases, can result in detention.

We understand the unique procedures and considerations involved in juvenile defense and work to protect your child’s rights while advocating for outcomes that prioritize their future. Parents are encouraged to contact us immediately if their child has been arrested or is under investigation.

Scheduling a free, confidential consultation is easy. Call us directly at (619) 577-0868—we’re available 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

You can also fill out the contact form on our website at sandiegocriminallawyerrt.com/contact or email us at info@sandiegocriminallawyerrt.com.

Our office is conveniently located in Mission Valley at 2820 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 110, San Diego, CA 92108. During your consultation, we’ll listen to the details of your situation, explain your options, and provide an honest assessment of your case.

Don’t wait: the sooner you get experienced legal representation, the better positioned we’ll be to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

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