The nearly 60,000 residents of Encinitas enjoy beaches on one side of the city, San Diego on the other, and a drive north lets residents benefit from all Los Angeles has to offer. The mild Mediterranean climate lets people be active and outside all year long, enjoying surfing, festivals, and a thriving flower industry.

Like any city, Encinitas has its fair share of crime. From home break-ins to DUIs to drug charges, thousands of people are charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses each year.

At McElfresh Law, a criminal defense firm located in San Diego, CA, If you’ve been charged with a crime, contact Encinitas criminal defense attorney Jessica McElfresh.

Criminal Charges We Handle in Encinitas

We represent clients facing a variety of charges, including:

DUI Defense in Encinitas

Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most common charges in California. Whether it involves alcohol, prescription medication, or marijuana DUI in San Diego, CA, a DUI can lead to severe penalties. An experienced Encinitas DUI lawyer can evaluate the circumstances of your arrest, challenge breath or blood test results, and work to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Drug Crime Defense

California’s drug laws are complex, especially given the state’s legalization of recreational marijuana. Charges such as possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances can lead to harsh consequences, including imprisonment and a permanent criminal record.

We represent clients facing:

Theft and Property Crimes

Theft charges can vary significantly depending on the value of the property and the circumstances. Common theft-related offenses include:

  • Petty Theft: Stealing property valued under $950, typically charged as a misdemeanor.
  • Grand Theft: Involving property over $950, which may be charged as a felony.
  • Burglary in California: Entering a residence or business with the intent to commit a felony.
  • Robbery: Taking property directly from another person using force or threats.

Penalties for theft crimes can include fines, restitution, and jail or prison time, depending on the severity of the offense.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes, including assault, domestic violence, and weapons offenses, are taken very seriously under California law. These charges often carry severe penalties, such as lengthy prison sentences and significant fines.

We understand that accusations of violence can arise from misunderstandings or false allegations. Our goal is to uncover the truth and build a strong defense to protect your freedom.

White-Collar Crimes

White-collar crimes, such as embezzlement, fraud, and identity theft, often involve complex financial transactions and can carry significant legal and financial penalties. If you’ve been charged with a white-collar offense, it’s critical to work with an attorney who has experience navigating these intricate cases.

College Crime Defense

A criminal conviction can affect a young person’s future, including their education and career opportunities. We handle these cases with care, focusing on rehabilitation and minimizing long-term consequences.

Violation of Restraining Orders

Domestic abuse is common across the U.S. and victims often seek restraining orders in order to protect themselves. However, restraining orders work best when the alleged abuser follows them. In many cases, the abuser violates the terms of these court orders and contact the victims. This may be by following the victim, going to their home, work, or school or calling them.

Violating a restraining order is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $1,000. If the violation involves violence or the threat of it, prosecutors may charge the offender with a felony, which means up to 3 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

Contact an Encinitas Criminal Defense Attorney

Jessica McElfresh is an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney who understands how important it is for every defendant to have an attorney. She gets to know every one of her clients and the nuances of their cases. By finding out the facts, good and bad, she’s better equipped to expose the holes in the prosecutor’s case and offer up a strong defense in court. If she’s unable to prove your innocence, she’ll do her best to minimize the consequences of a conviction.

Contact McElfresh Law at (858) 756-7107 today to learn more.

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