National City, California, is located only 5 miles south of San Diego and has a population of about 55,000 people. The community includes many service members who enjoy the charm of a smaller city while benefiting from exceptional access to downtown San Diego via the Metropolitan Transit System and the San Diego Trolley.

While National City can be a great place to live, it also suffers from a moderate to high crime rate for the region.

If you’re charged with a crime, contact a National City criminal defense attorney right away. You have the right to an attorney at the police station and in court.

Jessica McElfresh is an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Diego. Raised in San Diego for most of her life, she not only knows the communities but how the local criminal justice systems work. She will tenaciously defend you in court, poking holes in the prosecutor’s case, working toward an innocent verdict.

Criminal Charges We Handle in National City

Our firm handles a variety of criminal cases in National City, including:

California Weapons Charges

In California, your right to possess a gun can depend on:

  • The type of weapon
  • If it’s registered
  • Your location
  • Whether or not the firearm’s loaded
  • Whether it’s open or concealed
  • Whether or not you have the correct permit
  • Whether or not you’re a felon

Violations of gun laws, such as carrying an unregistered or concealed firearm without a permit, can lead to significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the loss of gun ownership rights. Our firm understands the complexity of California’s gun laws and defends clients who face these charges by negotiating for reductions, building strong defenses, and pursuing favorable outcomes.

First and Subsequent California DUI Charges

Being charged with driving under the influence should always be taken seriously. Whether it’s a first, second, or subsequent offense, the individual should contact an attorney right away. Under California law, the penalties for multiple DUIs become harsh, and a person could end up in prison or lose their license.

A first DUI can result in severe penalties or an offender may only be sentenced to probation and 6-months of a suspended license. It depends on the situation, whether or not there are aggravating circumstances, and whether the individual had an experienced attorney to negotiate on their behalf.

A second DUI conviction will likely bring with it a prison sentence, a significant fine, a license suspension, and DUI school. Whether or not it’s charged as a misdemeanor or felony will depend on the circumstances, the prosecutor, and having an attorney to push for a lower offense. Circumstances that will likely make the second DUI a felony is refusing to submit to a chemical test, a BAC of 0.15 percent or higher, excessive speeding, being under 21 years old, having a child in the car, or causing an accident. A felony DUI conviction carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.

Theft and Property Crimes

We defend clients charged with theft and property crimes, such as:

  • Shoplifting: Stealing items valued at $950 or less.
  • Petty Theft: A misdemeanor theft offense involving lower-value property.
  • Grand Theft: Felony theft of property exceeding $950 in value.
  • Burglary and Robbery: Entering a structure to commit a felony or using force to steal property.

These charges can have long-term consequences, including a criminal record and difficulty finding employment. Our team fights to mitigate penalties and protect your future.

Drug Crimes

Drug-related charges can range from simple possession to trafficking and manufacturing. California has strict drug laws, and penalties can be severe depending on the substance and circumstances. We handle cases involving:

Our goal is to secure alternatives to incarceration, such as treatment programs or reduced charges.

Assault and Violent Crimes

Violent crime allegations, including assault, battery, or domestic violence, are taken seriously in California. Convictions often lead to prison time, fines, and lasting social stigma. We analyze every detail of your case to build a defense, including arguments for self-defense or lack of intent.

College Crimes

Crimes committed by college-aged young adults can have significant consequences. We advocate for young clients, seeking to protect their futures and limit the impact of a conviction on their lives.

Contact a National City Criminal Defense Lawyer

No matter the offense, whether it’s for shoplifting, assault, robbery, a DUI, or a weapons charge, an experienced criminal defense attorney will take the matter seriously and work to prove your innocence.

Jessica McElfresh has years or experience defending residents around San Diego. She has a proven track record of proving her client’s innocence or minimizing the consequences of their conviction. She’ll protect your rights while you’re in police custody, out on bail, while negotiating with the prosecutor or judge, and during a trial. She’ll stick by your side, fighting for you so that you can move on with your life.

Call McElfresh Law today at (858) 756-7107 for a free and confidential consultation.

Avvo Award
california cannabis industry association award
INCBA award
NACDL award
national cannabis industry association award
award badge
county bar association award
superlawyers award badge
the states bar of california award