Criminal Law Services in San Diego

Black and white image of prison jail bars

Being arrested for a crime can be one of the most frightening events you may experience. Will you end up losing your freedom? How can you get your side of the situation heard?

And who will go to bat for you when you need help the most?

Fortunately, I, attorney Michael C. MacNeil, have the expertise you need to combat a wide variety of criminal charges. I am a leading criminal law attorney in San Diego who is passionate about making sure that my clients are treated justly in today’s criminal justice system.

Aggressively Pursuing Fair Resolutions for Your Criminal Legal Matters

You may feel that the odds are stacked against you if you are facing a criminal charge. Having dedicated criminal representation may end up being the difference between receiving probation and jail time, or suffering a misdemeanor or felony conviction that could have been avoided.

Being charged with a crime is a high-stakes situation that demands aggressive action. As your criminal law attorney in San Diego, I will get to work on your behalf immediately. You cannot afford to waste time in locating favorable defense witnesses and evidence. I will take the necessary steps to give you the head start you need to get you the best result possible.

Client Support

As your criminal defense attorney in San Diego, I realize that dealing with a criminal charge is stressful. Therefore, I will not add more stress to your situation by being hard to reach. I prioritize your needs, so you can rest assured that you will be able to reach me when you need me. In addition to offering you first-class legal representation, I will guide you through complex issues to help with the emotional and moral uncertainties that may arise throughout your case.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A SAN DIEGO ARREST

If you have just been arrested in San Diego or anywhere in California for any reason, follow these simple tips in order not to run aground and to give yourself the best possible chance for a positive outcome.

EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO SAY NOTHING

The Miranda Rights speech begins with “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law…” for a reason. The first, most important thing to do is remain silent. You are not going to win supporters by being forthcoming. In addition to exercising the right to silence, do not sign any documents or confirm any ostensible evidence that may be presented to you.

The only thing to be said either before or after the Miranda reading is, “I choose to remain silent.  I want to contact my attorney.”

CALL A DEFENSE ATTORNEY WHO KNOWS THE TERRITORY

If you don’t have an attorney or you would prefer not to have an assigned public defender, then you need to retain an attorney. Just remember that attorneys all have their specialties, strengths, and experience. If you are arrested, then you need an attorney who specializes in criminal cases — with particular experience in the sort of case that you’re facing. All types of criminal law cases, whether some form of misdemeanor, domestic violenceDUIhomicide, or other felony charges, all follow established case law in terms of their adjudication. So, it’s important to select an attorney with practical experience handling the sort of case being brought against you.

COMMUNICATE ONLY WITH YOUR ATTORNEY REGARDING THE CASE

Do not speak with anyone — including close family members and friends — about the charges you are facing. Remember that a friend or family member can be deposed and forced to testify against you. The less your loved ones know about the specifics of your case, the better.  While this advice may seem difficult if not impossible to follow, simply stick to the fact of the charge, the effect it’s having on you, and thank them for being a positive and supportive presence in your life. But resist the urge to “tell your side of the story” to anyone other than your attorney.

FOLLOW GOOD ADVICE.  OR GET NEW ADVICE.

After choosing an attorney based on his or her knowledge, experience, and track record, do yourself the favor of following their advice. While attorneys don’t expect their clients to meekly defer in all matters, it’s crucial to follow their advice. If you’re uncertain as to why an attorney is making a particular recommendation, then ask your attorney, “Why?”  A good attorney should be able and willing to provide you with their rationale. If you find yourself at odds with your attorney, then consider the need to get new representation.

MAKING THE BEST OF A BAD SITUATION

While following this advice won’t ensure that you’ll quickly put a criminal matter behind you, it will go a long way toward ensuring that you’ll achieve the best possible outcome. For immediate help, contact me today for a free case evaluation.

Seek Help from Michael C. MacNeil Today

If you’re searching for an experienced and highly-skilled criminal defense attorney in San Diego, you can rest assured that I will give you the full attention and time you deserve to get you the best possible results. I am invested in your case’s outcome and will personally work alongside you to pursue the best one possible given the circumstances surrounding your case.

Contact me today for a free consultation to find out more about how an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Diego can help you to protect your freedom and your long-term future.

AndrewAndrew
19:29 10 Feb 24
I was dealing with a very malicious neighbor who filed baseless lawsuits as harassment to cover up their illegal construction. Michael sucessfully defeated them in court; and was also able to get them to pay my attorney fees, thereby detering further baseless lawsuits. Michael is unique in that he will work with his clients to devise feasible and successful court strategies, is affordable, is unassuming. and gets back to you when you have a question, unlike other attorneys. Michael also has a lot of experience since he spent many years as a deputy district attorney and in private practice dealing with a wide variety of civil and criminal cases. He knows his way around a court room. I was very satisfied with his representation and highly recommend Michael MacNeil if you need smart, effective representation.
Alan LewisAlan Lewis
23:53 20 Oct 23
As a former attorney, I can tell you that Michael is one of the best I've worked with. His advice is spot on, he gets the job done and doesn't overbill. If you're on the fence, this is your sign to hire him.
Angel RosarioAngel Rosario
22:39 05 Aug 23
Excellent Attorney. Got my issues settled quickly and fairly!
Jon ClaytonJon Clayton
03:59 28 Jan 23
Incredible. He is ethical and honest and what a family law attorney should be. He helped with a contempt issue and was spot on the entire time. He was easy to work with and incredible supportive. I would give him more stars if I could.
Shekia DrakeShekia Drake
02:48 13 Jan 23
I cannot brag on Mr. MacNeil enough!! I thank God for him and giving me strength to get through my divorce. It was rough, but Mr. MacNeil gave me reassurance that everything would work out through communication and helping me understand this whole process. He's very honest, fair, and goes above and beyond for his clients. His communication is ON POINT! I was worry-free throughout majority of this process. BTW... I was not paid or begged to write this review. He's just that awesome in my opinion.
Ken JetersKen Jeters
17:42 06 Jun 22
Mr. Michael MacNeil was my attorney for a very difficult divorce procedure. I could not have found a better attorney to represent me. Mr. MacNeil was exceptional in details, follow through, and outstanding representation in court. His knowledge, honest advisement and professionalism achieved a positive result that I will always owe him my debt of gratitude. I have never worked with a better attorney in my life.
Suzanne FoxSuzanne Fox
16:54 06 Jun 22
Mr. Michael MacNeil recently handled some family legal matters that were quite extensive. He is one of the most outstanding professionals we have ever worked with. He handled everything in a timely manner with a meticulous attention to details. We had the best representation and advocacy, and because of his outstanding work we had an excellent outcome. We highly recommend him and he is the only one we will use to handle any future legal matters if any arise.
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