North County Criminal Defense Attorney

Are You in Need of a Criminal Defense Attorney in North County?

If you have been arrested or accused of a crime in North County, the decisions you make today will affect your freedom, your record, and your future. At jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney, we understand what is at stake, and we are prepared to fight aggressively to protect your rights.

Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony, criminal charges can result in:

• Jail or prison time
• Fines and restitution
• A permanent criminal record
• Loss of employment
• Immigration consequences
• Restraining orders or loss of custody

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Why Choose Us Over Other Criminal Defense Lawyers in North County?

Our firm’s approach is built on strategic preparation, deep legal knowledge, and proactive communication. Attorney James N. Dicks has decades of legal experience, and he is a former Los Angeles Police Department investigator.

Here is what sets jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney apart:

• Certified Criminal Law Specialist: James N. Dicks is certified by the California Board of Legal Specialization—an achievement that reflects advanced knowledge and skill in criminal defense.
• Former Law Enforcement Investigator : As a former police investigator, Attorney Dicks understands how law enforcement builds cases, and how to dismantle them.
• Respected and Recognized: Attorney Dicks has been selected to the Super Lawyers list and has received seven Client Choice Awards on AVVO.
• Detailed Knowledge of Local Courts: jD LAW is based in San Diego and has deep familiarity with the procedures, prosecutors, and judges in North County courts.
• Bilingual Services Available: Spanish-speaking staff are available to assist clients more effectively.
• Free Initial Consultation: Get answers and guidance right away without upfront commitment.
• 24/7 Availability for Urgent Matters: The firm is responsive and ready to act when your rights and freedom are at stake.

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How an Experienced North County Criminal Lawyer Can Help

Criminal defense is not just about arguing in court. A skilled attorney can provide critical support in many ways, including:

• Early intervention: Sometimes charges can be avoided altogether through pre-file negotiations or presenting exculpatory evidence.
• Suppressing evidence: We examine whether your rights were violated during searches, arrests, or interrogations. Illegally obtained evidence can often be excluded.
• Case dismissal or reduction: Many charges can be reduced or dismissed with the right legal strategy and aggressive advocacy.
• Negotiating favorable plea deals: If a trial is not in your best interest, we work to secure an outcome with minimal penalties.
• Trial representation: If needed, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and present a compelling defense before a jury.

At every stage, we focus on minimizing the impact of the case on your life and fighting for the best possible outcome.

Your Future Is on the Line

Don’t face criminal charges in North County alone. Call jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney at (760) 630-2000 to learn more today.

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What to Do If You Have Been Arrested

If you’ve been arrested in North County, it’s important to stay calm and avoid doing or saying anything that can make your situation worse. Follow these steps:

1. Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent. Use it. Do not explain, argue, or try to talk your way out of it.
2. Request an Attorney: Clearly say, “I want to speak to a lawyer.” After that, the police are required to stop questioning you.
3. Avoid Consent: Do not consent to searches or provide passwords to phones or devices.
4. Call jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney: Contact us as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights.

Even if you think the evidence is overwhelming, do not assume the case is hopeless. There may be weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, or legal defenses you have not considered.

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Reasons to Call a North County Criminal Lawyer Right Away

Many people underestimate the importance of calling a lawyer immediately after an arrest, or even before charges are filed. Here’s why early legal intervention matters:

• Prevent charges from being filed: In some cases, a skilled lawyer can contact prosecutors and present evidence or arguments that prevent formal charges.
• Preserve evidence: Witnesses forget details, and video footage may be erased. The sooner we’re involved, the sooner we can preserve helpful evidence.
• Avoid damaging mistakes: Talking to police, posting on social media, or speaking with others about your case can come back to hurt you. We’ll guide you on what to say and do.
• Mitigate consequences: We can often negotiate for reduced bail, alternative sentencing, or enrollment in diversion programs.
• Build a stronger case: More time to investigate, research, and prepare your defense always results in a more powerful legal strategy.

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Types of Cases We Handle

We provide aggressive, thorough criminal defense representation in a wide range of cases in North County and throughout San Diego County, including:

Sex Crimes

Sex crime allegations carry intense social stigma and severe legal consequences. We handle cases involving sexual assault, indecent exposure, internet-related sex crimes, and more. A conviction can lead to mandatory sex offender registration, long prison sentences, and life-altering restrictions.

DUIs

Driving under the influence charges can affect your license, job, insurance, and criminal record. We analyze every aspect of your DUI arrest to fight for reduced or dismissed charges, including breathalyzer errors, improper stops, or rights violations.

Boating Inder the Influence

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) in California is a criminal offense under Harbors and Navigation Code §655, which prohibits operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. A person may be charged if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or if their ability to operate the boat safely is impaired. Consequences of a BUI conviction can include jail time, fines, boating privilege suspensions, and mandatory alcohol education programs

Child Endangerment

In California, child endangerment involves placing a child in a situation where their physical or mental well-being is at risk,. This offense can include acts of direct harm or indirect conduct, such as leaving a child in a dangerous environment or failing to seek necessary medical care. A conviction may result in severe consequences, including jail time, loss of parental rights, and mandatory parenting programs

Juvenile Crimes

Juvenile offenses require a defense that considers both legal consequences and long-term impact on a child’s future. We handle juvenile theft, vandalism, underage drinking, and violent offenses with the goal of rehabilitation over punishment.

Stalking

Stalking charges can arise from misunderstandings or exaggerated claims. We defend against these accusations with a careful review of communications, timelines, and the credibility of the complaining party.

Drug Crimes

Drug crimes include a wide range of offenses such as possession, distribution, trafficking, and manufacturing of controlled substances, and are governed by the California Health and Safety Code and federal law. Penalties can vary significantly based on the type and quantity of the drug, the presence of prior convictions, and whether the alleged offense involved minors or occurred near schools. A conviction may lead to imprisonment, fines, mandatory treatment programs, and long-term consequences for employment or immigration status.

Theft Crimes

We defend clients accused of shoplifting, burglary, robbery, embezzlement, and other theft crimes. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony theft charge, we work to reduce or eliminate the consequences.

Three Strike Crimes

California’s Three Strikes law can result in life sentences for repeat offenders. We fight hard to prevent strikes from being added, argue for lesser charges, and pursue every option for keeping clients out of prison.

Hit and Run

Hit-and-run charges can be serious, especially if there were injuries involved. In many cases, the defendant left the scene unintentionally. We can build a strong legal case to protect your rights.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence accusations often rely on one person’s word. We investigate thoroughly to expose false allegations, find out what really happened , and ensure your side of the story is heard.

Federal Crimes

Federal charges are investigated by powerful agencies and prosecuted aggressively. We defend clients accused of federal offenses such as drug trafficking, wire fraud, conspiracy, and more. These cases require deep knowledge of federal law and procedures.

Under Investigation or Already Charged?

Time is critical. Contact jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney at (760) 630-2000 so we can start building a strong case right away.

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Located Near North County Jail and Courthouse

Our Firm's Address:
Melrose Center
400 South Melrose Drive, Suite 109
Vista, CA 92081

Vista Detention Facility:
325 S Melrose Dr. #200
Vista, CA 92081

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Other Locations We Serve

• Bonsall
• Camp Pendleton
• Cardiff
• Carlsbad
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• Escondido
• Fallbrook
• Leucadia
• Oceanside
• Rainbow
• Rancho Santa Fe
• San Diego
• San Marcos
• Solana Beach
• Valley Center
• Vista

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Speak With a Trusted North County Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Regardless of your the situation, you deserve a strong defense. At jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney, we believe in the presumption of innocence and the constitutional right to a fair trial. We treat every case with the seriousness it requires and every client with the respect you deserve.

Call (760) 630-2000 today to schedule a private consultation with James N. Dicks today.

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What Clients Are Saying About Us

You couldn’t ask for anyone better-Jamie King (5-Star Google Review)

James is a man of integrity, honesty and fairness. He is professional in every sense of the word. You couldn’t ask for anyone better to be on your side.

I am extremely satisfied-Steven Porter (5-Star Google Review)

I had a really great experience with jD LAW. They have very clear pricing with no surprises and give excellent service. All of my communication with them was quick, easy to understand, and highly professional. Plus, they solved my issue with a better result than I had even hoped for. Overall I am extremely satisfied with the quality of service and value I received.

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Case Results

DUI With Collision With BAC .28 and Hit-and-Run - Charges Reduced

Our client was arrested and charged with driving under the influence with a .28 blood alcohol concentration, while causing a collision and hit-and-run. Our client was given seven days in the public works service program.

Domestic Disturbance - Charges Dropped

Penal Code Section 273.5 (A) makes it a felony to inflict corporal injury on current or former spouse or cohabitant with a punishment of imprisonment in state prison for two, three, or four years, or in a county jail for not more than one year. We represented a mother of two children who had been charged with this because she had been the victim of a domestic disturbance and in the process had injured her husband. She was arrested, but bailed out of jail. Mr. Dicks had a conference with the District attorney and explained that she had acted in self-defense to protect herself and their children since her husband had been intoxicated at the time of the incident. After we provided corroborating statements to prove that her husband had been the aggressor and that our client had been the victim, the charges were dropped against her.

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Frequently Asked Question

What areas of North County do you serve?

We represent clients throughout North County San Diego, including Vista, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, San Marcos, and nearby communities. Our office is conveniently located to serve those facing charges in the Vista courthouse.

Do I need a lawyer if it’s just a misdemeanor?

Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction can lead to jail time, fines, a criminal record, and long-term consequences for employment, housing, and licensing. An experienced defense attorney can often get charges reduced or dismissed altogether.

What should I do if I’m contacted by the police but haven’t been arrested?

Do not speak to law enforcement without legal representation. Politely decline to answer questions and contact jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney immediately. Early intervention by a lawyer can sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.

How can your background in law enforcement help my case?

Attorney James N. Dicks is a former LAPD officer and undercover narcotics investigator. His law enforcement experience gives him a unique ability to identify investigative flaws, constitutional violations, and weak points in the prosecution’s case.

What does it mean to be a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist?

This certification, awarded by the State Bar of California, is granted to attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of skill, experience, and legal knowledge in criminal defense. Only a small percentage of attorneys in California hold this distinction.

What types of criminal cases do you handle in North County?

We handle a wide range of charges including DUIs, domestic violence, drug offenses, theft crimes, sex crimes, juvenile offenses, federal charges, stalking, child endangerment, and more.

Can you help with a case that involves multiple charges?

Yes. We are equipped to handle complex cases involving multiple charges or enhancements. We work strategically to weaken the prosecution’s case and pursue the best possible outcome across the board.

Will I have to go to court in person?

In some cases, we may be able to appear on your behalf, especially for misdemeanor charges. For felonies, your presence may be required. We will guide you through every step and ensure you're fully prepared.

What are the penalties for a conviction in North County?

Penalties vary depending on the charges and circumstances but may include jail or prison time, probation, fines, community service, mandatory programs, and a permanent criminal record. We fight to reduce or eliminate these consequences whenever possible.

How do I get started with your firm?

Call us at (760) 630-2000 to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll review the details of your case, explain your rights, and outline a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

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Meet Our North County Criminal Defense Attorney

James N. Dicks

James N. Dicks is the founder and lead attorney of jD LAW Criminal Defense Attorney, serving clients across San Diego County, including North County cities like Vista, Oceanside, and Escondido. With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense and a unique background in law enforcement, James brings unmatched insight and dedication to each case he handles.

Before becoming an attorney, James served as a police officer with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). He quickly rose through the ranks to become an undercover narcotics investigator, gaining firsthand knowledge of how criminal cases are built from the ground up. Motivated by a desire to protect the rights of the accused, he earned his law degree while still working in law enforcement—laying the foundation for a career devoted to criminal defense.

In 1990, James opened his private practice in Vista, and he has remained deeply committed to defending individuals in San Diego County ever since. Over the years, he has successfully handled thousands of criminal cases, ranging from DUI and domestic violence to complex felonies, federal crimes, and even homicide. His work has earned him a strong reputation among both peers and former clients.

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