San Diego Criminal Defense
A criminal case is built on evidence. So is a defense.
Diego Defense represents people facing charges and investigations throughout San Diego County and across Southern California. Attorney Ashby C. Sorensen has focused exclusively on criminal defense since 2009.
What this means in practice
Understanding the case before making decisions about it.
Criminal cases are often described in terms of outcomes. In reality, the outcome is the last thing that happens — it follows from work that begins much earlier: learning exactly what is alleged, obtaining the discovery, investigating independently, and identifying the legal issues the case presents.
Police reports are one account of an event, written by one participant. They are a starting point for analysis, not a conclusion. What surveillance video actually shows, what a witness the report never mentions remembers, and whether the evidence was lawfully obtained are all questions that change cases.
The goal isn't to make promises about an outcome that no attorney can guarantee. The goal is to understand the case, identify the issues, and build the strongest defense supported by the facts and law.
How a California criminal case generally moves
- 01
Investigation
Police gather information, sometimes long before anyone is arrested. This is the stage where advice can matter most and where statements do the most damage.
- 02
Arrest and booking
A person may be released with a court date, released on conditions, or held for a court appearance depending on the allegation and circumstances.
- 03
Filing decision
A prosecutor reviews the reports and decides whether to file, and what to file. What is charged does not always match what was alleged at arrest.
- 04
Arraignment
The first appearance, where charges are formally presented, a plea is typically entered, and the court addresses release conditions and future dates.
- 05
Discovery and motions
The defense obtains the evidence, investigates independently, and litigates legal issues — including how evidence was obtained.
- 06
Resolution or trial
Most cases resolve before trial, but a case is only well positioned when it has been prepared as though it may be tried.
This is a general overview for informational purposes. Every case is different, and nothing here is legal advice.
Practice areas
Criminal defense cases the firm handles
Each area below explains the process, the evidence that tends to matter, and the questions people most often ask.
DUI Defense
A DUI case runs on two tracks at once — the criminal court case and your driving privilege. Both involve deadlines, and both deserve a close look at the stop, the testing, and the reports.
Learn moreFelony Defense
Felony allegations carry the most serious exposure in California courts. These cases demand early investigation, careful review of the evidence, and preparation from the first appearance forward.
Learn moreMisdemeanor Defense
A misdemeanor is still a criminal case with real consequences — custody exposure, probation terms, and a record that follows you. It should be handled with the same seriousness as any charge.
Learn moreDrug Crime Defense
Drug cases frequently turn on how evidence was found. Searches, stops, warrants, and informants are all areas where the legal issues can shape the entire case.
Learn moreDomestic Violence Defense
Domestic violence accusations move quickly and often involve protective orders that affect where you live and who you can contact. Context, statements, and injury evidence all matter.
Learn moreAssault & Battery Defense
Many assault and battery cases come down to competing accounts of a short, chaotic event. Self-defense, witness reliability, and video evidence are central issues.
Learn moreTheft & Property Crimes
Theft and property allegations often hinge on intent, identification, and valuation — questions that can change how a case is charged and how it should be defended.
Learn moreProbation Violations & Warrants
An alleged violation or an outstanding warrant can be addressed. Handling it deliberately, with counsel, is usually better than waiting for it to surface at the worst moment.
Learn moreCriminal Investigations
If detectives are calling, a warrant was served, or you have learned police are asking questions, you can seek legal advice before you are arrested or charged.
Learn more
Common questions
Criminal defense basics
More questions are answered in the criminal defense FAQ and the resource library.
Get Answers. Understand Your Options.
Facing a criminal charge or investigation? You don't need to figure out the entire criminal justice system before calling an attorney. Tell Diego Defense what happened. The firm can help you understand the allegations, the process, and the potential legal options based on your circumstances.