San Diego Criminal Attorneys
Your Rights. Your Future. Your Freedom.
We fight to protect what you can’t afford to lose.
- A powerhouse reputation in San Diego for two decades.
- We've prosecuted before, now we protect.
- Former prosecutor turned fierce defense advocate with inside knowledge of the system.
We keep you informed with timely updates and straightforward guidance, so you’re never left in the dark
Seasoned San Diego Criminal Attorney
Being charged with a criminal offense in California can disrupt every aspect of your life. In San Diego, the consequences of a conviction go far beyond the courtroom. Being convicted of a crime means your career, your personal relationships, your reputation, and your freedom are all on the line. A criminal charge is a critical time in your life, and it calls for experienced legal support from someone who truly has your back.
Your fight for justice begins with your choice of attorney. The team at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum stands ready to defend you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.. Led by seasoned San Diego criminal attorney and former prosecutor Anna R. Yum, our team is ready to fight for your rights and vigorously defend you in court. We understand the high stakes you are facing, and work tirelessly to pursue the best possible outcome, offering guidance and advocacy every step of the way.
If you’ve been charged with a crime, now is the time to take action. Contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum at (619) 233-4433 today to get the dedicated legal representation you need to protect your future.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Anna R. Yum law office and their incredible team for support and guidance throughout my journey. From start to finish, Logan and Lauren was amazing they helped me navigate the military diversion…
Why Choose a Former Prosecutor With a Powerhouse Reputation in San Diego?
When you’re facing criminal charges, you want someone in your corner who knows exactly how the system works. With years of experience as a former prosecutor, Anna R. Yum brings invaluable insight into how cases are built against you and how they can be challenged. From the moment you reach out, you’ll have the confidence that comes with knowing your case is in the hands of a skilled advocate with a proven reputation in San Diego courts.
We’ve Prosecuted Before, Now We Protect
With two decades of experience, including a background as a former prosecutor, Anna R. Yum brings a unique perspective to defending clients in San Diego courts. She understands how prosecutors build their cases, allowing her to anticipate their strategies, identify weaknesses, and craft strong defenses to fight for the best possible outcome.
Her credibility and familiarity with judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures across San Diego courthouses, including Central, Vista, El Cajon, and Chula Vista, provide valuable leverage in cases ranging from DUIs to serious felonies, ensuring measured advocacy and a strategic approach to securing better results for you.
Timely Updates. Transparent Guidance. Total Peace of Mind
Facing a criminal charge can leave you feeling uncertain about what’s next. You deserve more than just a legal representative; you deserve someone who keeps you informed every step of the way. At the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, we prioritize clear communication. You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case. From timelines to legal options, we’ll explain everything in straightforward terms so you can make informed decisions and feel confident about your future.
We're Available 24/7 Because Your Case Doesn't Wait
Emergencies don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. If you or a loved one is arrested, we move fast on release strategies, bail review, or own-recognizance requests. We’re ready for weekend calls, jail visits, and emergency protective order hearings, ensuring we are a step ahead from the very beginning.
Your next call could change the direction of your case. Contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum today for a skilled San Diego criminal attorney who will move fast, keep you informed, and fight for the outcome that protects your future.
Call or message us at (619) 233-4433 to schedule a consultation.
Fast responses, clear guidance, and immediate action when your case can’t wait
I cannot say enough great things about my experience working with the Law Office of Anna Yum. From the very beginning, they demonstrated an unmatched level of professionalism, dedication, and expertise. They took the time to truly understand…
Drunk Driving
Domestic Violence
Sex Crimes
Sex Crimes
When everything’s at risk, we fight for you.
How California Criminal Cases Move in San Diego
When you are facing criminal charges in San Diego, it is important to have a clear idea of what to expect. The legal process can feel overwhelming, but it follows a structured path. From the moment of an arrest to the final outcome, there are specific steps and deadlines you must know about to protect your rights and your future. Our approach gives you a distinct advantage by preparing you for each phase of the case.
Arrest, Booking, and Bail Strategy
The journey begins with an arrest, followed by booking. During booking, your personal information is recorded, and you may be held in custody. Afterward, bail might be set, giving you the option to secure your release while awaiting trial. Bail strategies are critical, as they can influence whether you stay in custody or return home. A skilled attorney can argue for reduced bail or other conditions for your release, allowing you to focus on your defense.
Arraignment, Early Motions, and Charge Evaluation
The arraignment is your first court appearance, where you’ll formally hear the charges against you and enter a plea. This stage is also an opportunity for your attorney to evaluate the charges, review the evidence, and identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Early motions, such as motions to dismiss or suppress evidence, can be filed to challenge procedural errors or unlawful evidence collection. These steps set the foundation for a strong defense moving forward.
DMV Hearing Within 10 Days for DUI
A DUI arrest in California triggers two separate legal actions: a criminal court case and a civil case with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This second action is extremely time-sensitive. You have only 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV administrative hearing. If you miss this deadline, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended.
We take immediate action on your behalf to request this hearing, protecting your driving privileges while we fight your criminal case. We understand the local San Diego rules for these hearings, giving you a strong chance to keep your license.
Pretrial Negotiations, Diversion, and Alternative Sentencing
Many cases are resolved before trial through negotiations with the prosecution. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your attorney may work to reduce charges, negotiate lighter penalties, or explore diversion programs. Diversion programs can allow you to avoid a conviction entirely, provided you meet specific conditions like counseling or community service. Alternative sentencing options, such as probation or work release, can also keep you out of jail and help you move forward with your life.
Trial, Sentencing, and Post-Conviction Relief
If your case goes to trial, the stakes are high, but it’s also an opportunity to challenge the evidence against you and present a strong defense. If convicted, sentencing will follow, where your attorney can advocate for the most lenient penalties possible. Even after sentencing, post-conviction relief options such as appeals, expungements, or sentence modifications may still be available to help you rebuild your future.
No matter where you are in the process, having the right legal advocate can make all the difference. At the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, we are dedicated to guiding you through every stage of your case with skill and compassion. From fighting for your release after an arrest to exploring post-conviction options, we’re here to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact us today at (619) 233-4433 to take the first step toward defending your future.
I am so grateful to have Anna and her team help me with my case. They had been with me every step of the way through a long (almost 3 year) case, and they had made me feel safe in my position when I felt like, at times, I may fail. I can not thank each…
Anna R. Yum
Anna R. Yum is a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney in San Diego and the founder of the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum. Licensed to practice in both California and Illinois, Ms. Yum has built a reputation for successfully defending clients against a wide range of charges, from serious offenses like murder, sexual assault, and gang-related crimes to offenses such as DUI, theft, and assault. With extensive courtroom experience, Ms. Yum has tried numerous jury and bench trials to verdict, demonstrating her commitment to protecting her clients’ rights and achieving favorable outcomes.
Before founding her practice, Ms. Yum served as a prosecutor at the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, where she handled cases involving domestic violence, felony crimes, and gang-related offenses. Her time as a prosecutor has given her a unique insight into how cases are built, allowing her to anticipate strategies and craft strong defenses for her clients. Widely respected in her field, Ms. Yum is frequently called upon as a legal commentator for national media outlets like Fox News, CNN, and Court TV, and she actively participates in San Diego’s legal community through professional associations and public speaking engagements.
Logan Noblin
Logan Noblin is a dedicated Senior Attorney at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, bringing extensive experience in criminal defense to his clients. He has represented thousands of individuals accused of crimes throughout Southern California, starting his career as a deputy public defender in Los Angeles County and later serving as a federal public defender in San Diego. While in law school, Mr. Noblin was one of just 16 students nationwide selected for the prestigious Gideon’s Promise training program. His exceptional trial skills earned him recognition as Misdemeanor Attorney of the Year after winning seven consecutive jury trials in 2019, standing out among a team of over 700 state public defenders.
In addition to his legal expertise, Mr. Noblin has a background in journalism, having worked as a reporter and editor for California’s largest legal news publication, the Daily Journal. His passion for writing and storytelling has become a cornerstone of his legal practice, allowing him to craft persuasive arguments and present his clients’ stories effectively in court. A lifelong Southern Californian, Mr. Noblin is also a published fiction author, a soccer enthusiast, and a former amateur boxer with the Irish Athletic Boxing Association.
Proven results, personal attention, and the prosecutorial insight that changes everything.
Anna Yum literally helped save my life!!! I was accused of assault and battery with great bodily injury. I explained to Anna that I was acting in self defense. Long story short, my case went all the way to trial and we hung the jury. The DA was pushing…
When everything’s at risk, we fight for you.
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Driving-Related Charges in San Diego
A driving-related charge can feel like a major threat to your daily life. Your ability to get to work, care for your family, and run errands is suddenly in jeopardy. You might face serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and the loss of your driving privileges. Understanding the process is the first step toward building a strong defense, and we’re here to guide you through every detail.
Drunk Driving (DUI) Defense
In California, a DUI charge can stem from driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or being under the influence of any drug or a combination of drugs and alcohol that impairs your ability to drive. After a DUI arrest, you face two separate actions: a criminal case and a DMV administrative per se (APS) hearing.
- The criminal case deals with potential jail time, fines, and probation.
- The DMV hearing concerns your driver’s license suspension.
We’ll handle both parts of your case. Our goal is to challenge the evidence against you, including the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical test results. A successful defense can result in reduced charges, a dismissal, or a win at trial.
Non-DUI Driving Crimes (Reckless, Hit-and-Run, Suspended License)
Not all serious driving charges involve alcohol. In San Diego, you could face criminal charges for other types of reckless or negligent driving behavior. These offenses, like a DUI, can have serious consequences.
- Reckless Driving: This is defined as driving with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property. It can be a misdemeanor punishable by jail time and fines.
- Hit-and-Run: Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime. If the accident caused property damage, it’s a misdemeanor. If it resulted in injury or death, it can become a felony with much more severe penalties.
- Driving on a Suspended License: It is a misdemeanor to drive a vehicle when you know your license is suspended or revoked. Penalties can include jail time and fines, making this a serious offense.
For any of these charges, we dig into the details to find a path to a favorable outcome. We can challenge the initial traffic stop, question witness statements, or argue that you lacked the required intent to commit the crime.
License Protection and Ignition Interlock Issues
Your driving privileges are often the first thing at risk after a driving-related charge. The DMV can suspend your license even before you are convicted in court.
- The 10-Day DMV Hearing: After a DUI arrest, you have only 10 days to request a DMV administrative hearing to fight your license suspension. Missing this deadline means your license is automatically suspended. We can make this request for you and represent you at the hearing.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If you are convicted of a DUI in California, you may be required to install an IID on your vehicle for a period of time. This device tests your breath for alcohol before the car will start. There are strict rules for IID installation and use, and a violation can lead to further penalties. We can help you understand these requirements and address any issues that may arise.
A driving-related charge in San Diego has the power to upend your life. Protecting your driving privileges is a central part of your case, and we treat it with the seriousness it deserves.
Call the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum at (619) 233-4433 today for a confidential and complimentary consultation. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you.
Fabulous staff – George was great. We hired Logan to represent my son in a double felony case. Logan has been amazing – he was very thorough in his explanations for our options, outcomes and his recommendations. God willing we never need to hire…
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders
A domestic violence allegation can quickly escalate and impact your life. In addition to potential criminal charges, you might be facing the immediate threat of a restraining order that forces you out of your home and away from your family. When you are confronted with these serious issues, it’s crucial to have a plan. We can help you protect your rights from the very start.
Domestic Violence Charges and Defenses
Domestic violence charges are taken very seriously by prosecutors in California. The charges can range from a misdemeanor like domestic battery to a felony charge of inflicting corporal injury on a spouse. The severity of the charge often depends on the extent of the alleged injuries. We can challenge the prosecution’s case by looking for evidence of:
- Self-defense: This is a strong defense if you were acting to protect yourself or another person from immediate harm. We can argue you were not the aggressor, but rather the person in danger.
- False accusations: Unfortunately, people sometimes make false claims in heated disputes or to gain an advantage in a family law case. We can investigate the motive and look for inconsistencies in their story.
- Accident: Sometimes, an injury is the result of an accident, not an intentional act of violence. We can argue that you did not willfully cause harm.
Outcomes can include probation terms, a 52-week batterer intervention program, fines, and, in some situations, custody time. Relationship status matters because California’s “intimate partner” definitions influence charging decisions and potential penalties.
Restraining Order Defense (DVRO and Civil Harassment)
A domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) is a court order designed to protect someone from abuse. A person can request a restraining order against you, and it can be granted temporarily without your input. You will then have to attend a court hearing to defend yourself.
We can represent you at the hearing, presenting evidence and arguments to challenge the need for the order. This is vital because if a DVRO is issued, it can have lasting consequences, affecting your ability to see your children and even your firearm rights.
For disputes with people you are not in a domestic relationship with, such as a neighbor or coworker, a Civil Harassment Restraining Order may be filed against you. Our attorneys can investigate the circumstances involving the order and create a strategy aimed at lifting the order or changing the terms.
Additional Legal Consequences of a DVRO
A domestic violence case often has consequences that extend beyond a criminal penalty, affecting key areas of your life like firearm rights, family court matters, and parental contact. Understanding these overlaps is critical to protecting your future.
Firearm Ownership Restrictions
California has strict rules regarding firearms in domestic violence cases.
- A Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO), whether temporary or final, requires the prompt surrender of your firearms.
- Possessing a firearm in violation of such an order can result in new charges.
- Even a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction can trigger a 10-year state prohibition on gun ownership, with additional federal restrictions possibly applying.
We can help you with compliance, including surrendering firearms on time and keeping proof.
Protective Orders and Family Court
Criminal and family court orders often overlap, especially regarding contact with the alleged victim.
- Criminal Protective Orders (CPOs) may be issued under Penal Code § 136.2, and their terms can sometimes conflict with family court orders.
- Compliance is vital to avoid new charges for violating an order.
When appropriate, we can ask the court to clarify and modify the terms of your order to allow for peaceful parenting contact, structured exchanges, or counseling schedules that accommodate your work.
Child Custody and Parental Rights
A domestic violence finding can have a significant impact on child custody disputes. We can coordinate with your family law counsel to protect your parental rights. Compliance is key to avoiding new problems. When the facts allow, we can ask the court to modify the terms of your order to permit peaceful parenting contact, structured exchanges, or counseling schedules that match your work demands.
When a domestic violence allegation or a restraining order puts your life on hold, you need a powerful defense to protect your rights and your future. Our approach is to be your voice in court, challenge the accusations, and fight to keep your family together. Call the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum to get a strong defense tailored to your unique situation.
Don’t face criminal charges alone – get prosecutorial insight working for your defense today.
This is the second time the Law Offices of Anna Yum help me out with a DUI offense. Logan helped me out on my case and managed to get my second DUI reduced to a wet reckless. During this hectic time, this team made communication & paperwork…
