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Criminal defense for good people facing hard charges
Most of the people Marcus E. DeBose defends have never been in trouble before. One mistake, or one accusation, should not undo a lifetime of work. Since 2001 he has helped San Diego clients through felony and misdemeanor cases, one story at a time.
Meet Marcus at the Mission Valley office, or talk by phone or Zoom.
- You work with Marcus directly
- Defending San Diego clients since 2001
- Hablamos español
When everything you have built feels at risk
The people who call Email My Lawyer are often parents, professionals, students and service members who have lived a good life and are suddenly facing a criminal charge.
They are worried about losing their job, their savings, their relationships, their standing in the community and their freedom. Marcus understands that fear. He takes the time to find out what happened and why, then tells that story to the prosecutor and the judge, so the court sees a whole person and not just a case number.
Early in his career Marcus carried a caseload of 125 felony cases at once. He has secured multiple "Not Guilty" verdicts at jury trial, and he knows how San Diego's courts work. When you hire Email My Lawyer, you work with him directly from the first call.
Practice areas
Marcus focuses on DUI and on non-violent criminal charges, especially for people with no prior record.
Felony Defense
First-time and non-violent felony charges, including wobblers that may be reduced to a misdemeanor.
Learn more 02Misdemeanor Defense
Lower-level charges that can still affect your job and your record, and may qualify for diversion.
Learn more 03Insurance Fraud
Accused of a false or inflated claim after an accident or a loss? The early steps can matter a great deal.
Learn more 04White Collar Crimes
Fraud, embezzlement, forgery and identity theft allegations, including cases still under investigation.
Learn more 05Theft Crimes
Shoplifting, petty theft and grand theft charges, and the options that may be available.
Learn more 06Drug Crimes
Possession and related charges, including programs that may lead to a dismissal.
Learn more 07Hit and Run
Leaving the scene of an accident, whether it involved property damage or an injury.
Learn more 08Probation Violations and Warrants
A missed court date, a new allegation or an outstanding warrant, handled before it grows.
Learn more 09Record Sealing and Expungement
Clearing an old conviction or arrest so it stops following you into job applications.
Learn more 10Military Diversion
For current and former service members facing a misdemeanor charge in California.
Learn more 11DUI Defense
First, second and third DUI charges, test challenges and the 10-day DMV deadline.
DUI defense 12Not sure where you fit?
Tell Marcus what happened. The first consultation is free, in person, by phone or on Zoom.
Free consultationHow a criminal case generally moves
Every case is different, but most California cases follow a similar path. Knowing what comes next can make it less frightening.
Arrest or citation
A case usually begins with an arrest, a citation to appear, or a letter or call from an investigator. This is a good time to speak with an attorney.
Arraignment
Your first court date. The charges are read, you enter a plea, and the court addresses release conditions.
Pretrial
Evidence is exchanged and negotiations take place. In felony cases, a preliminary hearing tests whether there is enough evidence to go forward.
Resolution or trial
Many cases end in a dismissal, a reduction, diversion or a negotiated outcome. Others go to trial before a judge or jury.
Criminal defense questions
General answers only. For advice about your own case, book a free consultation with Marcus.
I have never been arrested before. What should I do first?
Write down what you remember while it is fresh, keep any paperwork you were given, and avoid discussing the case with anyone other than your attorney. Then call for a free consultation so Marcus can explain where the case stands and what may come next.
Should I talk to the police or an investigator about my case?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. It is generally wise to speak with a defense attorney before giving any statement, even if you believe the conversation is informal or that you can clear things up.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Felonies are the more serious category and can carry state prison or longer county jail terms. Misdemeanors are less serious but can still bring jail time, fines, probation and a lasting record. Many California offenses, called wobblers, can be charged either way. See felony defense and misdemeanor defense.
Can a criminal case be resolved without a trial?
Often, yes. Many cases end through a negotiated resolution, a reduction, a diversion program or a dismissal. Others go to trial. The right path depends on the evidence and on what matters most to you.
Do you handle cases outside the city of San Diego?
Yes. Marcus appears in courthouses across San Diego County, and in southwest Riverside County through the Murrieta courthouse. See areas we serve.
Ready to take the next step? Talk to Marcus today.
Whether you were arrested last night or you have a court date coming up, the earlier you call, the more options you may have.
(619) 876-0992