Criminal Defense

When you are facing criminal charges, the experience of the lawyer you hire can make or break your case. Hiring an attorney with a background prosecuting and defending criminal charges can be very beneficial; they can tell you more about the possible outcomes of charges than those without such experience. When you are facing criminal charges in San Diego, California, you want a criminal defense attorney who will fight the charges against you aggressively and strive for the best possible outcome.



All criminal charges must be taken seriously; whether you are facing a DUI, misdemeanor, or felony charge, you will be facing financial penalties, and you could be putting your driving rights, and other rights at risk. Being arrested is terrifying and puts your job, family, and your reputation at risk. You need to contact a criminal defense attorney before you speak with law enforcement officers; remember, a question they pose to you could seem innocent, but chances are they are digging for information. Even telling an officer your routine on the day of the arrest could haunt you later in the process.

Restraining Order Violations/Domestic Violence

If you are charged with domestic violence, or with violating a restraining order, it is important to talk with me as soon as possible. Domestic violence charges are complicated because there are often hidden reasons for these charges including anger, and jealousy. I will look carefully at the circumstances of your arrest for either charge and listen to what you have to say before we move forward.

DUI/Drug Crimes

DUI charges are to be taken very seriously. Whether you were arrested for suspicion of operating with alcohol or drugs in your system, it is imperative to contact me immediately. These charges can lead to the loss of your license, increased insurance fees, and a lifelong criminal record. Pleading no contest is not an option; this is the equivalent of a guilty plea.



When a prosecutor sees a drug charge, they typically try to get the most significant charge possible. This means if you are found in possession of drugs, you could be facing manufacturing, or distribution charges. Depending on numerous factors, the charges could be classified as felonies. I will work aggressively to ensure the prosecutor is not over-charging and work towards the best possible outcome.

Weapons Violations

California gun laws are complicated and even those who are legally allowed to carry a weapon can find themselves in violation of the law. Anyone who is charged with domestic violence, or has a felony conviction cannot legally carry a weapon. However, if you are stopped for DUI or other offense, and an officer searches your vehicle and finds a weapon, you could be facing a gun charge. If there was no probable cause for the search, we can fight to get the charges dropped since this would be considered an illegal search. Regardless of the weapons charges you are facing, I will take the necessary time to understand the circumstances of your arrest, and will work tirelessly to get the charges reduced, or dropped. Law abiding citizens have the right to arm themselves; police can overstep when they file a weapons charge; I can help.

Warrants/Resisting Arrest

Arrest warrants are issued by the court and provided to law enforcement officers. In many cases, you may not be notified by the prosecutor or investigator that you will be served with a warrant. If you are notified of the warrant, it is important you do not flee, or do anything foolish or you could be facing additional charges. Contact me immediately; I will do everything in my power to ensure your rights are not violated.



Police officers who fail to identify themselves, an officer who uses excessive force, or when you feel you have been detained unlawfully — these circumstances may lead you to resist arrest. Each of these instances can be argued in court as a defense against resisting arrest charges. Contact me immediately if you are arrested and facing a resisting arrest charge, or if you have been informed of, or served, a warrant for your arrest.

Early Termination of Probation/ Expungements

Nearly all employers in California run criminal background checks. This is problematic if you are currently on probation. However, if you have followed all restrictions of probation, and have had no further problems, there may be a possibility of terminating your probation early. As part of filing for termination, we can also file a petition to have your record expunged. The combination of these two actions will allow you to answer “no” on a job application when asked about a criminal record. I can help you get your life back on track after you were convicted of certain crimes in California.



I provide criminal defense services all over San Diego and help fight back against a broad range of charges including DUIs, weapons charges, and drug crimes. Contact The Law Office of Allen R. Hall, immediately when you need an aggressive criminal defense attorney.