San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer
Experienced Representation for All Criminal Charges in San Diego County
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in San Diego County, you’re likely dealing with fear, uncertainty, and confusion about what comes next. You may be worried about your job, your family, your reputation—and most of all, your freedom. The first and most important step you can take is to protect your rights by speaking to an experienced San Diego criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
At Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law, we provide skilled, strategic defense against a wide range of criminal charges. Anthony is a former Public Defender who has dedicated his career to protecting people’s rights and freedom in the criminal justice system. He brings calm to chaotic situations and reassurance when everything seems uncertain. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges in San Diego, you can count on Anthony to fight for your best outcome at every stage of the process.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Rights from the Start
If you’re under investigation or have been arrested, it’s critical that you do not speak to the police or answer any questions without a lawyer present. Law enforcement officers are trained to get information out of you—even if it means misleading you or pretending to be on your side. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
Your best defense starts the moment you request an attorney. Let Anthony speak for you and begin protecting your rights from the very beginning.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense in San Diego for Every Situation
Anthony represents clients charged with virtually every type of criminal offense in San Diego County. No matter the charge, he treats every case with urgency, respect, and determination. Here’s a closer look at the types of cases he handles:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
A DUI arrest can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. Anthony carefully examines every aspect of the stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing to identify any legal issues, constitutional violations, or unreliable evidence. He works to get charges reduced or dismissed and fights to preserve your driving privileges and freedom.
Drug Offenses
From simple possession to more serious allegations of drug sales or trafficking, drug charges can result in jail time, probation, or a permanent criminal record. Anthony defends clients facing charges involving controlled substances like methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and prescription medications. He explores diversion programs, challenges illegal searches, and builds strong defenses based on the facts of your case.
- Drug Offenses
- Drug Paraphernalia
- Drug Possession
- Drug Sales
- Drug Trafficking
- Marijuana Offenses
- Search & Seizure
Disorderly Conduct and Public Offenses
Disorderly conduct charges can stem from a wide range of alleged behavior, including public intoxication, disturbing the peace, resisting arrest, or loitering. While often considered less serious than other crimes, these charges can still leave you with a criminal record and unwanted consequences. Anthony takes every case seriously and works to have charges dismissed, reduced, or otherwise resolved without conviction when possible.
Theft Offenses
Theft crimes can include petty theft, grand theft, shoplifting, burglary, robbery, or embezzlement. Even a low-level theft conviction can impact your job prospects, immigration status, and reputation. Anthony carefully investigates the evidence and challenges assumptions or incomplete stories put forth by the prosecution to protect your rights and future.
- Theft Offenses
- Burglary
- Car Theft
- Carjacking
- Dealing in Stolen Property
- Organized Retail Theft
- Robbery
- Shoplifting
Property Damage Offenses
Crimes involving property damage—such as vandalism, arson, or trespassing—can carry significant penalties, especially if the damage is severe or appears intentional. These cases often depend on circumstantial evidence or mistaken identity. Anthony works to uncover the full story and present a defense that reflects the facts—not assumptions.
Weapons Offenses
California has strict and complex gun and weapon laws. You can be charged for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, possessing an illegal firearm, or using a weapon during another crime. These offenses can lead to serious felony charges and enhancements. Anthony knows how to challenge unlawful searches, question the legality of the stop, and advocate for reduced charges or case dismissal.
Violent Crimes
If you’ve been accused of a violent offense like assault, battery, robbery, or homicide, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Convictions can lead to years or decades behind bars, especially when sentencing enhancements are involved. Anthony is a fierce advocate for clients accused of violent crimes, carefully examining every detail of the incident and the credibility of witnesses and evidence to build the strongest possible defense.
Domestic Violence Offenses
Domestic violence charges are often filed after emotionally charged disputes between spouses, partners, or family members. False or exaggerated claims are common, and the accused is frequently arrested based on one person’s version of events. Anthony handles these cases with discretion and diligence, ensuring that your rights are respected and your side of the story is fully heard.
Child Abuse and Child Endangerment
These charges can be life-changing and emotionally devastating, especially when they result from misunderstandings or mischaracterized incidents. Anthony provides focused and compassionate representation to clients accused of physical abuse, neglect, or endangerment. He works to defend not only your legal rights but also your ability to remain a parent and protector of your child.
Sex Offenses
A sex crime accusation can follow you for the rest of your life—even if you are never convicted. Charges may include sexual assault, lewd acts, possession of child pornography, or indecent exposure. These cases require immediate, confidential, and experienced legal representation. Anthony approaches these matters with sensitivity and determination, challenging questionable evidence and pushing back against unfair or unsupported allegations.
Juvenile Offenses
When a child or teenager is accused of a crime, it’s important to address the matter carefully to preserve their future opportunities. Anthony represents minors in juvenile delinquency proceedings, working to keep cases in juvenile court, avoid detention, and pursue outcomes focused on rehabilitation, not punishment.
Expungements and Sentence Reductions
Past mistakes shouldn’t hold you back forever. If you’ve completed your sentence, you may be eligible to have your conviction expunged or your felony reduced to a misdemeanor. Anthony helps clients clean up their criminal records so they can move forward with their lives, secure employment, and regain their rights.
A Personalized Approach to Criminal Defense in San Diego
No two cases are alike—and no two clients are, either. Anthony doesn’t apply a one-size-fits-all defense strategy. He takes the time to understand your situation, your background, and your goals. From there, he crafts a defense designed to protect your freedom and limit the consequences of your case as much as possible.
Anthony’s calm and confident presence helps clients feel secure, even during one of the most stressful times of their lives. Whether he’s negotiating a favorable plea or standing by your side at trial, you can count on him to be fully committed to your defense.
Local Knowledge, Trusted Experience
Anthony appears regularly in courthouses throughout San Diego County, including downtown San Diego, Juvenile Court, El Cajon, Chula Vista, and Vista. He knows how local prosecutors handle various types of cases and understands the expectations of different judges and court staff. This local insight allows him to navigate the system efficiently and effectively on your behalf.
Call a Skilled San Diego Criminal Attorney Now to Begin Your Defense
Time is critical in a criminal case. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of avoiding serious consequences.
If you’ve been arrested, don’t say anything to the police—just ask for your attorney. Then call Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law, to get the experienced legal representation you need.
Contact our San Diego criminal defense lawyer today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.