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Phone (619) 231-1830

San Diego, California
Criminal Defense Attorney

As a former prosecutor turned San Diego defense attorney, George H. Ramos, Jr. knows the criminal justice system inside out and how to negotiate effectively.
George H. Ramos Jr.attorney & founder

Professional Bilingual Law Firm With Over 20 Years Of Criminal Law Experience

Drawing on his background as a prosecutor, George H. Ramos, Jr.—now a seasoned San Diego criminal defense lawyer—offers clients a strategic edge through his deep understanding of the justice system and negotiation process.

In addition to personally handling your case from arraignment through trial, our English-Spanish speaking lawyer is available to you during every step of the legal process. The Law Office of George H. Ramos, Jr. guarantees that you will receive the undivided, personal attention you deserve.

The Criminal Defense Process

Arresting officers have the obligation to inform the person in custody that he or she has the right to an attorney, and the right to have a defense attorney appointed if he or she does not have the resources to pay for one. These are called “Miranda” warnings. If you’re facing criminal charges in San Diego County, contact San Diego criminal defense lawyer Law Office of George H. Ramos, Jr. as early as possible. It’s important that an attorney gets involved in a case at the earliest stages, even before interrogation, if possible. Every lawyer involved in the justice system must adhere to a complex set of rules of procedure to ensure a fair trial. The rules apply to both prosecutors and defense attorneys. This complicated procedure means that the criminal justice system is best dealt with by an experienced San Diego criminal attorney like George H. Ramos, Jr.

San Diego criminal defense lawyer
San Diego defense attorney

Negotiating A Plea Agreement

Sometimes charges are dropped after a defendant’s lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor. In such criminal cases, the defendant pleads guilty to a less serious charge in exchange for the prosecutor’s agreement to drop the more serious charges. The final decision on whether to accept a proposed plea agreement always rests with the defendant. Depending upon the severity of the crime committed, a defendant who receives a guilty verdict may be sentenced to serve some period of probation, to pay a fine, perform community service, make restitution or pay for the monetary losses caused by the crime, or to serve some time in prison.

A veteran San Diego criminal defense attorney like George H. Ramos, Jr. will use negotiation skills to fashion a deal with a prosecutor that provides for the least severe punishment possible. If no deal can be made, the attorney can mount a strong defense in court to convince the jury that the prosecutor cannot prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant committed the crime.

Why Do You Need A San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney?

It is always recommended to seek a criminal attorney immediately after being arrested or charged with a crime. There may be some provisions and laws that can be confusing or otherwise complex that only a San Diego criminal lawyer will understand. For example, domestic violence and drug laws in California can be notoriously complex, with definitions and categorizations of crimes that may be unique from all other states. A criminal defense lawyer will construct a defense strategy with all of these unique provisions in mind.

Additionally, a strong criminal defense is often the key to reduced penalties and minimized (or even dismissed charges). This is especially true in crimes where the difference in severity (and penalties) is so narrow that it is easy for a prosecutor to pursue the maximum possible charges for your case. A criminal defense attorney can push for charges that most benefit your situation, ensuring you are not excessively punished for a seemingly minor mistake.

Why Choose Us?

We are a criminal defense law firm in San Diego that utilizes our unique experience and knowledge of the criminal defense legal system to help all those in need. Attorney George H. Ramos, Jr. has more than 30 years of experience on both sides of the courtroom. As a former prosecutor, he has unique knowledge of the criminal justice system from both perspectives, gaining a deep understanding of the processes necessary to successfully defend a client. We are committed to providing excellent service to our clients, ensuring we listen to their case, their circumstances, and their needs before determining a proper legal defense on their behalf.

We understand the seriousness of your case, and give you our full attention. San Diego criminal attorney George H. Ramos, Jr. personally handles your case throughout the entire process, from arraignment to trial, to ensure you receive the representation you deserve.

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Practice areas

Our experienced attorney specialize in the following practice areas and are dedicated to every unique and individual case.
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Criminal Defense

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DUI & DWI

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CPS/Juvenile

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Domestic Violence

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Restraining Orders

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White Collar Crimes

Get Help From A Skilled San Diego Criminal Defense Law Firm

George H. Ramos, Jr. and his talented defense team have over 20 years of experience and an impressive track record for handling complicated criminal cases in San Diego county. He will fight to get your state or federal charges dropped or your fees, jail time, and penalties reduced by using an aggressive defense strategies. George H. Ramos, Jr. will provide dedicated legal representation against both misdemeanor and felony charges.

If you or a loved one are facing a criminal charge in San Diego, such as assault, domestic violence, drug possession, sexual abuse, fraud, violation of a restraining order, theft, DUI, DWI, or others, contact English-Spanish speaking lawyer George H. Ramos, Jr. Call now for a free confidential case evaluation with an attorney from our San Diego defense law firm.

Types Of San Diego Crimes We Help Defend

The Law Firm of Law Office of George H. Ramos, Jr. has extensive experience defending client on all felony and misdemeanor charges. This includes:

  • Domestic Violence. George H. Ramos, Jr. is a former prosecutor who specialized in domestic violence cases in San Diego. Using the knowledge he garnered through the years, he can formulate a case strategy that can aim to minimize, reduce, or dismiss any domestic violence charges you may be facing.
  • Drug Crimes. California has extensive, strict laws against drugs that come with potentially harsh penalties, including fines and prison time. The difference between being charged with a minor misdemeanor and a felony drug charge often comes down to a competent, excellent defense strategy.
  • DUIs. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is taken incredibly seriously in California, impacting your ability to drive and a possibility of fines and prison time. A drunk driving attorney from our law firm can help you explore your options for a defense that is right for your needs.
  • Juvenile Crimes. Any felonies or misdemeanors committed by a minors comes with its own unique sets of procedures and rules that complicate criminal defenses. We have previously assisted those who are arrested for juvenile crimes, formulating strong defenses to support minors in their case.

Our drug crime attorneys can help you formulate a defense that ensures you do not have to pay disproportionately for your mistakes.

Who you hire as your defense attorney can be even more important than what criminal charges you are facing.

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Frequently
asked questions

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost?

  • The cost of a criminal defense lawyer can vary significantly depending on the circumstances: the severity of the crime, the experience of the criminal attorney, the complexity of your case, and even the location of your crime.

    Typically, misdemeanors cost much less to represent than felony charges. In these cases, some criminal attorneys charge a flat fee – but it can still be costly, ranging anywhere from $1,000 to $3,500. In criminal cases involving felony charges, attorneys most commonly charge an hourly fee, ranging anywhere from $150 to $700 an hour, depending on the circumstances.

If I’m Guilty, Should I Hire a Criminal Lawyer?

  • Even if you are guilty or a crime, or are planning on pleading guilty, a San Diego criminal defense lawyer can be invaluable. There are still options available that can reduce the impact of the crime. For example, an experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate for a lighter prison sentence in exchange for pleading guilty – or may even be able to eliminate prison time altogether for probation or house arrest.

    This type of plea bargaining is incredibly difficult to do if you represent yourself. However, it can be much easier in the hands of a respected criminal defense attorney.

Can I Be Arrested If the Police Don’t Have a Warrant for My Arrest?

  • Yes – in California, an arrest warrant typically is not needed to arrest somebody. This is because a police officer may be allowed to detain individuals at their own discretion. This is otherwise known as probable cause: if a law enforcement officer has reasonable suspicion to believe you have committed a felony, a public offense, or any other crime which may cause harm upon another party.

How Does California Differentiate Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony Charge?

  • Much like other states, misdemeanor charges are typically much less severe than felony charges. In California, generally any crime that carries a maximum potential penalty of one year in prison is considered a misdemeanor. Although standard traffic violations such as speeding and running red lights is less than a misdemeanor, offenses such as excessive speeding and driving under the influence are considered misdemeanors. Other common misdemeanors include minor drug possession charges, shoplifting, and trespassing.

    Felony charges are much more serious criminal offenses, punishable by more than one year in prison. The most egregious felony offenses include murder and rape – which could even be punishable by death.

    It is important to note that some crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. Domestic violence, sexual battery, and assault with a deadly weapon may be charged as felonies if they are severe and egregious.

If I’m Innocent, Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Innocent people unfortunately end up in jail all the time, due to evidence that leads to incorrect conclusions about certain crimes. Whether you need a San Diego sex crimes attorney or San Diego white collar crime lawyer, an experienced criminal defense attorney with a proven track record can fight for your freedom, ensuring that the truth about your case is upheld.

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