San Diego Criminal Attorneys

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Seasoned San Diego Criminal Attorney

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Being charged with a criminal offense in California can disrupt every aspect of your life. In San Diego, the consequences of a conviction go far beyond the courtroom. Being convicted of a crime means your career, your personal relationships, your reputation, and your freedom are all on the line. A criminal charge is a critical time in your life, and it calls for experienced legal support from someone who truly has your back.

Your fight for justice begins with your choice of attorney. The team at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum stands ready to defend you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Led by seasoned San Diego criminal attorney and former prosecutor Anna R. Yum, our team is ready to fight for your rights and vigorously defend you in court. We understand the high stakes you are facing, and work tirelessly to pursue the best possible outcome, offering guidance and advocacy every step of the way.

If you’ve been charged with a crime, now is the time to take action. Contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum at (619) 233-4433 today to get the dedicated legal representation you need to protect your future.

Empathy, and a Fresh Start

Why Choose a Former Prosecutor With a Powerhouse Reputation in San Diego?

When you’re facing criminal charges, you want someone in your corner who knows exactly how the system works. With years of experience as a former prosecutor, Anna R. Yum brings invaluable insight into how cases are built against you and how they can be challenged. From the moment you reach out, you’ll have the confidence that comes with knowing your case is in the hands of a skilled advocate with a proven reputation in San Diego courts.

With two decades of experience, including a background as a former prosecutor, Anna R. Yum brings a unique perspective to defending clients in San Diego courts. She understands how prosecutors build their cases, allowing her to anticipate their strategies, identify weaknesses, and craft strong defenses to fight for the best possible outcome.

Her credibility and familiarity with judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures across San Diego courthouses, including Central, Vista, El Cajon, and Chula Vista, provide valuable leverage in cases ranging from DUIs to serious felonies, ensuring measured advocacy and a strategic approach to securing better results for you.

Facing a criminal charge can leave you feeling uncertain about what’s next. You deserve more than just a legal representative; you deserve someone who keeps you informed every step of the way. At the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, we prioritize clear communication. You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case. From timelines to legal options, we’ll explain everything in straightforward terms so you can make informed decisions and feel confident about your future.

Emergencies don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. If you or a loved one is arrested, we move fast on release strategies, bail review, or own-recognizance requests. We’re ready for weekend calls, jail visits, and emergency protective order hearings, ensuring we are a step ahead from the very beginning.

Your next call could change the direction of your case. Contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum today for a skilled San Diego criminal attorney who will move fast, keep you informed, and fight for the outcome that protects your future.

Call or message us at (619) 233-4433 to schedule a consultation.

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How California Criminal Cases Move in San Diego

When you are facing criminal charges in San Diego, it is important to have a clear idea of what to expect. The legal process can feel overwhelming, but it follows a structured path. From the moment of an arrest to the final outcome, there are specific steps and deadlines you must know about to protect your rights and your future. Our approach gives you a distinct advantage by preparing you for each phase of the case.

The journey begins with an arrest, followed by booking. During booking, your personal information is recorded, and you may be held in custody. Afterward, bail might be set, giving you the option to secure your release while awaiting trial. Bail strategies are critical, as they can influence whether you stay in custody or return home. A skilled attorney can argue for reduced bail or other conditions for your release, allowing you to focus on your defense.

The arraignment is your first court appearance, where you’ll formally hear the charges against you and enter a plea. This stage is also an opportunity for your attorney to evaluate the charges, review the evidence, and identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Early motions, such as motions to dismiss or suppress evidence, can be filed to challenge procedural errors or unlawful evidence collection. These steps set the foundation for a strong defense moving forward.

A DUI arrest in California triggers two separate legal actions: a criminal court case and a civil case with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This second action is extremely time-sensitive. You have only 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV administrative hearing. If you miss this deadline, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended.

We take immediate action on your behalf to request this hearing, protecting your driving privileges while we fight your criminal case. We understand the local San Diego rules for these hearings, giving you a strong chance to keep your license.

Many cases are resolved before trial through negotiations with the prosecution. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your attorney may work to reduce charges, negotiate lighter penalties, or explore diversion programs. Diversion programs can allow you to avoid a conviction entirely, provided you meet specific conditions like counseling or community service. Alternative sentencing options, such as probation or work release, can also keep you out of jail and help you move forward with your life.

If your case goes to trial, the stakes are high, but it’s also an opportunity to challenge the evidence against you and present a strong defense. If convicted, sentencing will follow, where your attorney can advocate for the most lenient penalties possible. Even after sentencing, post-conviction relief options such as appeals, expungements, or sentence modifications may still be available to help you rebuild your future.

No matter where you are in the process, having the right legal advocate can make all the difference. At the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, we are dedicated to guiding you through every stage of your case with skill and compassion. From fighting for your release after an arrest to exploring post-conviction options, we’re here to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact us today at (619) 233-4433 to take the first step toward defending your future.

Phase Key Actions or Legal Points Typical Deadlines or Rules
Arrest, Booking, and Bail Strategy Arrest, booking, bail may be set or argued by attorney Defendant must appear before a judge within 72 hours, excluding weekends and holidays
Arraignment, Early Motions, and Charge Evaluation First court appearance, charges read, plea entered, early motions may be filed In misdemeanors, trial must start within 30 days if in custody or 45 days if not
DMV Hearing Within 10 Days for DUI Separate DMV hearing to contest license suspension Hearing must be requested within 10 days of arrest
Pretrial Negotiations, Diversion, and Alternative Sentencing Plea negotiations, motion hearings, diversion programs, or alternatives Many cases resolve before trial through agreements or diversion
Trial, Sentencing, and Post-Conviction Relief Trial, sentencing, and post-conviction options such as appeals or expungement For felonies, trial must begin within 60 days after arraignment
Not Just Lawyers—A Team That Cares

San Diego Criminal Attorneys - Law Offices of Anna R. Yum

Anna R. Yum is a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney in San Diego and the founder of the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum. Licensed to practice in both California and Illinois, Ms. Yum has built a reputation for successfully defending clients against a wide range of charges, from serious offenses like murder, sexual assault, and gang-related crimes to offenses such as DUI, theft, and assault. With extensive courtroom experience, Ms. Yum has tried numerous jury and bench trials to verdict, demonstrating her commitment to protecting her clients’ rights and achieving favorable outcomes.

Before founding her practice, Ms. Yum served as a prosecutor at the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, where she handled cases involving domestic violence, felony crimes, and gang-related offenses. Her time as a prosecutor has given her a unique insight into how cases are built, allowing her to anticipate strategies and craft strong defenses for her clients. Widely respected in her field, Ms. Yum is frequently called upon as a legal commentator for national media outlets like Fox News, CNN, and Court TV, and she actively participates in San Diego’s legal community through professional associations and public speaking engagements.

Logan Noblin is a dedicated Senior Attorney at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, bringing extensive experience in criminal defense to his clients. He has represented thousands of individuals accused of crimes throughout Southern California, starting his career as a deputy public defender in Los Angeles County and later serving as a federal public defender in San Diego. While in law school, Mr. Noblin was one of just 16 students nationwide selected for the prestigious Gideon’s Promise training program. His exceptional trial skills earned him recognition as Misdemeanor Attorney of the Year after winning seven consecutive jury trials in 2019, standing out among a team of over 700 state public defenders.

In addition to his legal expertise, Mr. Noblin has a background in journalism, having worked as a reporter and editor for California’s largest legal news publication, the Daily Journal. His passion for writing and storytelling has become a cornerstone of his legal practice, allowing him to craft persuasive arguments and present his clients’ stories effectively in court. A lifelong Southern Californian, Mr. Noblin is also a published fiction author, a soccer enthusiast, and a former amateur boxer with the Irish Athletic Boxing Association.

Associate Attorney Deanna Ivers, with the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, focuses her practice on defending individuals against criminal charges across California. Her background is rooted in public defense, where she represented thousands of clients and established a reputation for highly effective trial work, including a 100 percent trial win rate during her first year as a misdemeanor attorney. She later broadened her litigation experience to include serious, strike-related felony cases, earning recognition for thorough preparation, strategic advocacy, and outstanding client communication.

Ms. Ivers brings a unique perspective gained from her tenure as staff attorney for the Kings County Superior Court judges, where she conducted research, drafted bench memoranda, and advised the judiciary on intricate criminal law matters. This experience provides her with a strong grasp of judicial reasoning, enhancing her ability to develop arguments that appeal to the court. She has successfully resolved cases involving DUI, domestic violence, drug offenses, theft, firearm charges, and strike eligible felonies. Ms. Ivers also possesses extensive knowledge of California diversion programs, and she continuously refines her skills through advanced training in homicide defense, trial advocacy, and felony litigation.

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A driving-related charge can feel like a major threat to your daily life. Your ability to get to work, care for your family, and run errands is suddenly in jeopardy. You might face serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and the loss of your driving privileges. Understanding the process is the first step toward building a strong defense, and we’re here to guide you through every detail.

In California, a DUI charge can stem from driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or being under the influence of any drug or a combination of drugs and alcohol that impairs your ability to drive. After a DUI arrest, you face two separate actions: a criminal case and a DMV administrative per se (APS) hearing.

  • The criminal case deals with potential jail time, fines, and probation.
  • The DMV hearing concerns your driver’s license suspension.

We’ll handle both parts of your case. Our goal is to challenge the evidence against you, including the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical test results. A successful defense can result in reduced charges, a dismissal, or a win at trial.

Not all serious driving charges involve alcohol. In San Diego, you could face criminal charges for other types of reckless or negligent driving behavior. These offenses, like a DUI, can have serious consequences.

  • Reckless Driving: This is defined as driving with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property. It can be a misdemeanor punishable by jail time and fines.
  • Hit-and-Run: Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime. If the accident caused property damage, it’s a misdemeanor. If it resulted in injury or death, it can become a felony with much more severe penalties.
  • Driving on a Suspended License: It is a misdemeanor to drive a vehicle when you know your license is suspended or revoked. Penalties can include jail time and fines, making this a serious offense.

For any of these charges, we dig into the details to find a path to a favorable outcome. We can challenge the initial traffic stop, question witness statements, or argue that you lacked the required intent to commit the crime.

Your driving privileges are often the first thing at risk after a driving-related charge. The DMV can suspend your license even before you are convicted in court.

  • The 10-Day DMV Hearing: After a DUI arrest, you have only 10 days to request a DMV administrative hearing to fight your license suspension. Missing this deadline means your license is automatically suspended. We can make this request for you and represent you at the hearing.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If you are convicted of a DUI in California, you may be required to install an IID on your vehicle for a period of time. This device tests your breath for alcohol before the car will start. There are strict rules for IID installation and use, and a violation can lead to further penalties. We can help you understand these requirements and address any issues that may arise.

A driving-related charge in San Diego has the power to upend your life. Protecting your driving privileges is a central part of your case, and we treat it with the seriousness it deserves.

Call the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum at (619) 233-4433 today for a confidential and complimentary consultation. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you.

Experienced Guidance. Compassionate Support. Outstanding Results

Domestic Violence and Protective Orders

A domestic violence allegation can quickly escalate and impact your life. In addition to potential criminal charges, you might be facing the immediate threat of a restraining order that forces you out of your home and away from your family. When you are confronted with these serious issues, it’s crucial to have a plan. We can help you protect your rights from the very start.

Domestic violence charges are taken very seriously by prosecutors in California. The charges can range from a misdemeanor like domestic battery to a felony charge of inflicting corporal injury on a spouse. The severity of the charge often depends on the extent of the alleged injuries. We can challenge the prosecution’s case by looking for evidence of:

  • Self-defense: This is a strong defense if you were acting to protect yourself or another person from immediate harm. We can argue you were not the aggressor, but rather the person in danger.
  • False accusations: Unfortunately, people sometimes make false claims in heated disputes or to gain an advantage in a family law case. We can investigate the motive and look for inconsistencies in their story.
  • Accident: Sometimes, an injury is the result of an accident, not an intentional act of violence. We can argue that you did not willfully cause harm.

Outcomes can include probation terms, a 52-week batterer intervention program, fines, and, in some situations, custody time. Relationship status matters because California’s “intimate partner” definitions influence charging decisions and potential penalties.

A domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) is a court order designed to protect someone from abuse. A person can request a restraining order against you, and it can be granted temporarily without your input. You will then have to attend a court hearing to defend yourself.

We can represent you at the hearing, presenting evidence and arguments to challenge the need for the order. This is vital because if a DVRO is issued, it can have lasting consequences, affecting your ability to see your children and even your firearm rights.

For disputes with people you are not in a domestic relationship with, such as a neighbor or coworker, a Civil Harassment Restraining Order may be filed against you. Our attorneys can investigate the circumstances involving the order and create a strategy aimed at lifting the order or changing the terms.

A domestic violence case often has consequences that extend beyond a criminal penalty, affecting key areas of your life like firearm rights, family court matters, and parental contact. Understanding these overlaps is critical to protecting your future.

Firearm Ownership Restrictions

California has strict rules regarding firearms in domestic violence cases.

  • A Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO), whether temporary or final, requires the prompt surrender of your firearms.
  • Possessing a firearm in violation of such an order can result in new charges.
  • Even a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction can trigger a 10-year state prohibition on gun ownership, with additional federal restrictions possibly applying. 

We can help you with compliance, including surrendering firearms on time and keeping proof.

Protective Orders and Family Court

Criminal and family court orders often overlap, especially regarding contact with the alleged victim.

  • Criminal Protective Orders (CPOs) may be issued under Penal Code § 136.2, and their terms can sometimes conflict with family court orders.
  • Compliance is vital to avoid new charges for violating an order. 

When appropriate, we can ask the court to clarify and modify the terms of your order to allow for peaceful parenting contact, structured exchanges, or counseling schedules that accommodate your work.

Child Custody and Parental Rights

A domestic violence finding can have a significant impact on child custody disputes. We can coordinate with your family law counsel to protect your parental rights. Compliance is key to avoiding new problems. When the facts allow, we can ask the court to modify the terms of your order to permit peaceful parenting contact, structured exchanges, or counseling schedules that match your work demands.

When a domestic violence allegation or a restraining order puts your life on hold, you need a powerful defense to protect your rights and your future. Our approach is to be your voice in court, challenge the accusations, and fight to keep your family together. Call the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum to get a strong defense tailored to your unique situation.

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High-Stakes Felony Defense

When you are facing a serious felony charge in San Diego, the consequences can be life-altering. You might be looking at significant prison time, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of your constitutional rights. These cases demand a vigorous defense from the very beginning. Our job at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum is to confront these charges head-on, fighting to protect your freedom and your future.

Violent crime charges are some of the most serious offenses under California law. Allegations of assault, robbery, or homicide often come with harsh penalties, including significant prison time and a permanent criminal record. Prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions in these cases, which is why building a strong defense is essential.

Our attorneys can press constitutional issues where appropriate, including probable cause, unlawful searches, or suggestive identifications. Strategic motions can additionally help narrow the case or frame it for trial.

Being charged with a violent crime is not a conviction, and it shouldn’t define your character. Every detail of your case matters, from witness statements to law enforcement procedures. With a thorough approach and strategic defense, it’s possible to challenge the evidence, argue for reduced charges, or even seek dismissal.

Sex crime allegations can be devastating, both legally and personally. Cases involving charges like rape, sexual battery, lewd acts, or internet-related offenses like possessing or distributing prohibited material often come with severe penalties, including mandatory registration as a sex offender if convicted. Beyond the courtroom, the stigma of these allegations can affect your relationships, career, and standing in the community.

California law treats these cases with high sensitivity, and the prosecution often relies heavily on circumstantial evidence, digital records, or personal testimony. However, no case is one-sided. Sex offense allegations demand precise, respectful advocacy. A strong defense can challenge the credibility of the evidence, expose procedural errors, and protect your rights throughout the process.

California has some of the strictest firearm laws in the country, and being charged with a weapon-related offense can lead to serious consequences. Whether it’s illegal possession, carrying an unregistered firearm, or using a weapon during the commission of another crime, these charges are often accompanied by sentencing enhancements that can drastically increase penalties.

Defending against weapon charges requires a close look at the circumstances surrounding your case. Was the weapon legally owned? Were your rights violated during the search or arrest? These are important questions that can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Even when enhancements are involved, there are often legal strategies to reduce or challenge those additional penalties.

In high-stakes cases where everything is on the line, you cannot afford a timid defense. We provide the aggressive advocacy you need to protect your freedom and your future.

Contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum today at (619) 233-4433 for a confidential strategy session.

Empathy, and a Fresh Start

Drug Crimes Defense

Drug charges can have a long-lasting impact on your life, affecting your freedom, your finances, and your reputation. You may be facing serious penalties, even for a first offense. Our defense is built on challenging the prosecution’s case at every turn and exploring every option to get you a better outcome. We can help you protect your rights and move forward.

Drug charges in California vary greatly depending on the substance, the amount, and what you were allegedly doing with it. The penalties are very different for possession for personal use versus possession for sales.

  • Possession: Under Health and Safety Code § 11350, it is a crime to possess a controlled substance. Simple possession is often a misdemeanor in California, but can be a felony with a prior criminal history. The prosecution must prove you had control over the drug and knew of its nature.
  • Sales, Transportation, and Manufacturing: These are more serious felony charges. For example, Health and Safety Code § 11352 makes it a felony to sell or transport certain controlled substances. You can be charged with sales even if you were only giving the drug away. Manufacturing drugs, under Health and Safety Code § 11379.6, is one of the most serious drug offenses and can carry a lengthy prison sentence.

We carefully evaluate the details of your case to build the strongest possible defense. We can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of possession or sales, or argue that the drugs were for personal use, not for sale.

Many drug cases begin with a search. Law enforcement officers must follow strict constitutional rules when conducting searches and seizures. If they violated your rights, we can fight to have the evidence against you thrown out. We will review the circumstances of your case to determine if there were any legal violations, such as:

  • Lack of Probable Cause: Did the police have a legal reason to stop and search you, your vehicle, or your home?
  • Invalid Search Warrant: Was the warrant based on truthful information, and did the police stay within the scope of the warrant?
  • Consent Issues: Did you feel pressured or coerced into giving consent for a search?
  • Plain View: Was the drug truly in plain sight, or did an officer have to move something to see it?

If we can prove that the evidence was obtained illegally, a judge can order it to be suppressed. This often leads to the prosecution having to drop or reduce your charges.

California law favors rehabilitation over incarceration for many non-violent drug offenses. If you are facing a drug charge, you may be eligible for a diversion program that allows you to avoid jail time and, in some cases, a criminal record.

  • Penal Code § 1000: This is a pretrial diversion program for certain non-violent drug offenses. If you successfully complete a drug education or treatment program, the charges against you will be dismissed, and you can avoid a conviction.
  • Proposition 36: This is a post-conviction option for certain non-violent drug possession offenses. Instead of going to jail or prison, you would be placed on probation with a required drug treatment program.
  • Drug Court: San Diego offers a Drug Court program that provides an alternative to the traditional court process for certain individuals struggling with substance abuse.

We will work to determine if you are eligible for any of these programs, and we will guide you through the process to help you get the best possible outcome.

When a drug charge in San Diego has your future in the balance, you need an attorney who is ready to challenge the evidence and explore every path to a better outcome. We will confront the accusations and fight for a resolution that protects your rights and helps you move forward. Call the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum today to get a plan for your defense.

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When everything’s at risk, we fight for you.

Property and Financial Crimes

Property or financial crime charges often involve allegations of dishonesty, which can damage your personal and professional life even before you step into a courtroom. Having the right defense is critical to protecting your rights and working toward a resolution that minimizes the impact on your future.

Theft crimes in California range from minor offenses like shoplifting to serious charges such as burglary or grand theft. While shoplifting might seem like a minor issue, repeat offenses or thefts involving higher dollar amounts can quickly escalate to felonies. Burglary and grand theft, on the other hand, can carry lengthy prison sentences and significant fines, particularly if large sums of money or valuable property are involved.

Every theft case is unique. Factors such as the value of the stolen property, your intent, and the circumstances surrounding the incident all play a role in how your case is handled. A strong defense can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, highlight mitigating factors, and work toward reducing the charges or even having them dismissed altogether.

White collar crimes involve allegations of financial wrongdoing, such as fraud, embezzlement, or forgery. In California, these crimes are often investigated in-depth and prosecuted aggressively, especially in cases involving large sums of money or alleged harm to businesses or individuals.

  • Fraud: Fraud involves using false statements or misrepresentations to deceive someone for financial gain. 
  • Embezzlement: This crime involves taking property or money that was entrusted to you, often in a position of trust like an employee or a fiduciary. 
  • Forgery: Forgery is the act of creating, altering, or using a false document with the intent to defraud. This can include forging signatures on checks, altering legal documents, or falsifying public records. 

While they may not involve physical harm, white collar charges can carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms and significant financial restitution. Beyond that, the accusation itself can harm your career and reputation. A thorough defense can examine the evidence, question the methods used to gather it, and work to uncover inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.

Property and financial crimes often involve restitution, where you may be ordered to repay the alleged losses. In California, this can add significant financial strain, especially if the loss calculations are inflated or unfair. Additionally, these cases can expose you to civil liability, opening the door for lawsuits from alleged victims seeking further compensation.

Challenging the accuracy of loss calculations and negotiating fair restitution agreements are key components of a strong defense. It’s important to address these issues early in the process to limit both criminal and civil consequences.

Property and financial crime charges don’t just threaten your freedom; they can also put your reputation, career, and financial future at risk. At the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, you’ll have a San Diego criminal attorney who is ready to fight for you. We carefully evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and focus on protecting what matters most to you. Take the first step toward defending your future.

Contact us today at (619) 233-4433 to learn more about how we can help.

Not Just Lawyers—A Team That Cares

Federal Criminal Defense in the Southern District of California

Federal criminal charges are handled much differently from state cases, and the stakes are often higher. In the Southern District of California, which includes San Diego, federal prosecutors and investigators work with vast resources to pursue serious offenses. If you’re facing federal charges, it’s important to act quickly and have a strong advocate on your side who understands the federal system and how it can affect your case.

Federal cases often begin long before charges are filed. You might not even know you’re being investigated until you receive a target letter or a subpoena to appear before a federal grand jury. A target letter is a formal notice that you are a target of a federal investigation, and prosecutors believe they have substantial evidence linking you to a crime.

A target letter doesn’t always mean charges are inevitable, and being called before a grand jury doesn’t necessarily make you guilty of anything. However, what you say or don’t say matters. These early stages are critical because your responses and actions can shape the direction of your case. Having an advocate to guide you through this process, protect your rights, and handle communications with federal investigators can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Federal drug crimes, fraud, and conspiracy charges are some of the most common cases handled in the Southern District of California. Drug charges often involve allegations of trafficking or distribution across state or international lines, which carry severe mandatory minimum sentences. Fraud cases, including wire fraud, tax fraud, or healthcare fraud, often involve complex documentation and significant financial stakes. Conspiracy charges are particularly challenging because they can involve multiple defendants and rely heavily on circumstantial evidence.

Federal prosecutors are aggressive in pursuing these cases, but that doesn’t mean the evidence against you is flawless. Every case deserves a detailed review to identify weaknesses in the government’s claims, challenge unlawful evidence collection, and build a strategic defense.

Federal charges demand immediate and focused action to protect your rights and your future. At the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, we are committed to providing a strong legal defense. With a skilled San Diego criminal attorney by your side, you’ll have the guidance and advocacy you need at every stage of your case.

Contact us at (619) 233-4433 today to take the first step toward defending your freedom and future.

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Proven results, personal attention, and the prosecutorial insight that changes everything.

Professional Excellence When Everything's on the Line
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San Diego Violent Offenses Felonies/Strike Offenses Defense

When it comes to violent crimes, there is an exceptional amount of complexity involved in the defense of the accused. Each detail of a case counts when determining charges, sentencing, or otherwise. Under the law in the state of California, to include San Diego County, violent crimes – whether against living beings or property – come with the most severe penalties.

If you have been arrested for or charged with a violent crime, it is in your best interest to contact a highly skilled and aggressive San Diego criminal defense lawyer. To discuss the details of your case with a trusted, peer-respected criminal defense attorney, who for years prosecuted violent crimes, and now uses that experience to help fight for the rights of those accused with a violent crime, contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum today for your free, confidential consultation. 

Violent Crimes Against a Person, Against Property in San Diego
Violent crimes are typically grouped under two separate categories: those against a person, and those against property.  Violent crimes include but are not limited to:

  • Assault and/or battery
  • Assault with a deadly weapon
  • Carjacking
  • Domestic Violence
  • Great bodily injury/battery
  • Homicide
  • Kidnapping
  • Manslaughter
  • Rape
  • Various sexual offenses
  • Arson
  • Residential Burglary
  • Extortion
  • Robbery
  • Three-strikes crimes

Nearly all violent crimes in California’s state criminal justice system are counted under California’s three-strike law, which means that a conviction for one of these crimes will be used towards the “three strikes and you’re out” enhancement. Under California law, a sentencing enhancement means that with each violent crime you are charged with, the consequences become more serious. Should you commit and be charged with any of these three-strike offenses, you will need a reputable San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney, to help fight for your freedom, or you may be sentenced to significant, irreparable jail and/or prison time.

Assault and Battery Criminal Defense in San Diego
Assault and battery are considered violent crimes against a person. While these charges are often assigned hand-in-hand, assault and battery are two separate charges and each comes with its own set of parameters and subsequent consequences.

Assault is defined as an attempt to touch or hit another without his or her consent. Even threatening someone with violence is considered a form of assault. It does not matter whether or not the victim of the alleged assault has suffered an injury or not, an attempt, threat or any harassing or unwanted touch may be considered assault.

Battery is the actual rude or offensive touching, hitting, or contact of any kind—no matter the severity or whether an injury actually occurred. These offenses are typically charged as felonies, though experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys in San Diego often secure a reduced charge to a misdemeanor, or in other cases, an acquittal altogether.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Defends Violent Crime Charges
San Diego Criminal Defense attorney Anna R. Yum works on her clients’ behalf at every step of the legal process from start to finish, including:

  • Investigating the case:
    A good criminal defense attorney wants to know all the various details of course, especially more than the prosecutor knows.
  • Challenging the arrest or charges:
    Sometimes violent criminal cases come with trumped up charges. It is essential that your attorney recognize the varying degrees of seriousness of a criminal charge, so that the appropriate charge is leveled, rather than exaggerated claims made by a prosecutor.
  • Negotiating with the District Attorney:
    An experienced violent crimes/strike offenses San Diego defense attorney will work well opposite the prosecution to best serve your interests in the long run, either by negotiating to have charges dismissed or reduced.
  • Appearing with you at your various hearings:
    Having your criminal defense attorney by your side is your best defense against the potential consequences of serious and violent felonies or strike offense charges.
  • Preparing you for a trial, if one is appropriate:
    With an experienced criminal defense attorney like Anna R. Yum at your side, you have a trustworthy, confidante and ally in your corner who will guide you through the complexities of the legal process, make sure you are aware of all your options, and ensure that you appear in court with a comprehensive knowledge of the proceedings, potential outcomes, and how best to appear before a judge and/or a jury.
  • Representing you at trial:
    A prepared, well-versed, San Diego Defense Attorney who is versed in advocating on behalf of clients charged with serious and violent crimes and strike offenses is there to speak on your behalf in a court setting. Criminal trials are strenuous ordeals. Having a level-headed, yet aggressive San Diego Criminal Defense attorney on your side ensures that your voice is heard, your interests are represented, and your chances of a positive resolution are enhanced.
  • Arguing for a favorable sentence if you are convicted
    Because the outcome of violent criminal cases, to include strike offenses depends on a variety of factors, it is possible that you might be convicted of some of the crimes you are charged with. Should this happen, award-winning, experienced, peer recognized and respected San Diego Criminal Defense attorney Anna Yum who is well versed in criminal law from both the prosecution side, and the defense side, knows how to best argue for a lesser or more lenient sentence on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a violent crime like domestic abuse, kidnapping, manslaughter, assault and battery, a sexual offense, larceny, burglary, or otherwise, contact the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum today and learn more about your legal options during a free and confidential legal consultation.

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San Diego Criminal Attorneys for When Everything’s at Risk

When you’re facing a criminal charge in San Diego, it can feel like everything is on the line. Your freedom, career, and family stability can be affected almost instantly. What you do in the first 24–48 hours after being arrested or contacted by law enforcement can shape the direction of your case.

California criminal cases move quickly. In most situations, you’ll be arraigned within two court days of an arrest, excluding Sundays and court holidays. That first appearance is where bail, release conditions, and protective orders may be set. From this point on, every decision matters. Even a misdemeanor conviction can bring county jail time, fines, probation, court-ordered classes, firearm restrictions, and immigration consequences. Felony convictions carry the risk of state prison time, long-term probation, and “strike” penalties under California’s Three Strikes law.


The impact of a conviction can follow you for years and affect nearly every part of your life.

Remember, you have rights at every stage of the process. Acting quickly gives your defense the best chance to create a tailored strategy that protects your best interests. Our seasoned San Diego criminal attorneys at The Law Offices of Anna R. Yum can review your case from every angle and build a plan aimed at securing the best possible outcome.

Call (619) 233-4433 for a confidential case review. Your defense starts the moment you reach out.

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Don’t face criminal charges alone – get prosecutorial insight working for your defense today.