Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
40 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego
Stephen D. Lemish has dedicated over three decades to criminal defense, specializing in complex federal and state cases. Our practice focuses on defending clients charged with border crimes, drug smuggling, illegal entry, white-collar offenses, and firearm violations. With admission to the Supreme Court of the United States and multiple federal courts, we provide strategic representation grounded in constitutional rights. Our approach combines aggressive advocacy with personalized case strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances. As a trusted trial attorney, we prioritize integrity and credibility while delivering results-driven legal solutions. Our extensive federal court experience, including work in the Southern and Central Districts of California, positions us to handle high-stakes cases effectively.

We also offer consultation services for clients already represented, providing additional strategic insights. Recognized by legal institutions and consistently ranked among top criminal attorneys, we remain committed to protecting clients' freedoms through meticulous preparation and courtroom excellence. Our team maintains active memberships in prestigious legal associations while upholding a legacy of trust built over 30 years. Whether navigating federal prosecutions or state-level charges, we ensure clients receive unwavering representation backed by deep institutional knowledge.
Services
Federal Crimes Defense Drug Smuggling Defense Illegal Entry Defense White-Collar Crimes Defense Firearm Offenses Defense Immigration Offenses Defense Conspiracy Charges Defense Money Laundering Defense Case Strategy Consultation Legal Representation
Details
  • Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
  • We have over 30 years of experience in criminal defense.
  • Our practice focuses on federal court cases in California.
  • We develop personalized case strategies for each client.
  • Our attorney is available 24 hours for emergencies.
  • We offer consultation services for represented clients.
Associations and certifications
  • Supreme Court of the United States
  • Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
  • Southern District of California
  • Central District of California
  • California Bar Association
Services
Federal Crimes Defense
Specialized representation for federal criminal charges including drug trafficking, immigration violations, and organized crime allegations. Our deep understanding of federal court procedures and established presence in Southern and Central Districts of California enable effective defense strategies. We leverage decades of experience handling complex multi-defendant cases and high-profile prosecutions.
Drug Smuggling Defense
Strategic defense for international and domestic drug trafficking charges. We challenge evidence collection methods, border search protocols, and prosecutorial overreach while protecting clients' constitutional rights. Our approach combines technical knowledge of controlled substance laws with courtroom-tested advocacy techniques to achieve favorable outcomes.
Illegal Entry Defense
Comprehensive legal representation for immigration-related criminal charges including reentry after deportation and alien smuggling allegations. We navigate the intersection of criminal law and immigration consequences while developing defense strategies that address both immediate legal jeopardy and long-term immigration status implications.
White-Collar Crimes Defense
Targeted defense for fraud, money laundering, and financial misconduct allegations. Our approach combines forensic accounting analysis with criminal law expertise to challenge complex financial evidence. We specialize in unraveling intricate paper trails and presenting clear, persuasive counter-narratives in federal court proceedings.
Firearm Offenses Defense
Focused representation for federal firearm possession and trafficking charges. We challenge unconstitutional search and seizure practices while leveraging statutory defenses under the Second Amendment. Our experience with weapons-related prosecutions enables effective negotiation of reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
People
Stephen D. Lemish, Lawyer
Attorney & Founder
Criminal defense attorney with 30+ years federal court experience. Admitted to Supreme Court and multiple federal circuits. Recognized by Who's Who in American Law. Specializes in complex criminal cases and federal prosecutions.
Questions
What types of criminal cases do you handle?
We specialize in federal and state criminal defense including drug smuggling, illegal entry, firearm offenses, white-collar crimes, and immigration-related charges.
How experienced are you in federal court?
With admission to the Southern and Central Districts of California since 1986 and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, we handle over 90% of cases in federal court settings.
Can you help if I already have an attorney?
Yes, we provide strategic consultation services for clients who want additional legal perspectives or specialized federal court expertise while maintaining their current representation.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily San Diego County and federal courthouses in Southern and Central Districts of California, with nationwide consultation capabilities for federal cases.
Are emergency legal services available?
Yes, our attorney remains available 24/7 for urgent legal matters requiring immediate attention or crisis intervention.
What payment options exist?
We offer competitive legal fees with flexible payment arrangements. Contact our office directly to discuss specific billing options for your case.