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Your Trusted San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney
Brian E Watkins & Associates has built a reputation as a leading legal firm in San Diego, specializing in criminal defense and personal injury cases. With nearly two decades of experience, our team combines extensive courtroom expertise and strategic negotiation skills to protect clients' rights and achieve favorable outcomes. Our practice is rooted in a commitment to justice, offering personalized legal strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances. We handle a wide range of cases, from DUI and domestic violence to complex civil litigation and high-stakes criminal defense.Our founder, Brian E. Watkins, has been recognized nationally for groundbreaking cases and media commentary, demonstrating a deep understanding of both state and federal legal systems. We prioritize transparency, ensuring clients are fully informed throughout the legal process, and maintain affiliations with respected legal organizations such as the San Diego Bar Association. Our track record includes notable dismissals, reduced sentences, and multimillion-dollar settlements, reflecting our relentless pursuit of justice for every client.
Services
Criminal Defense
DUI/DWI Defense
Domestic Violence Defense
Personal Injury Claims
Civil Litigation
Expungements
Probation Violations
Juvenile Cases
Wrongful Death
Assault/Battery Defense
Highlights and features
- We have over 28 years of experience in criminal and civil litigation.
- Our founder successfully argued cases at the California Appellate Court level.
- We provide 24/7 emergency legal consultation for urgent matters.
- Our team has secured millions in personal injury settlements and verdicts.
- We handle complex cases with police policy expertise and non-lethal use-of-force reforms.
Associations and certifications
- Super Lawyers
- San Diego Bar Association
- Earl B. Gilliam Association
What people say
Successful case dismissals
Millions secured in settlements
Extensive appellate experience
24/7 emergency availability
Expertise in police policy reforms
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense practice covers state and federal charges including drug offenses, DUI, and domestic violence. With decades of courtroom experience, we develop personalized defense strategies to protect clients' futures through case dismissals, reduced charges, or favorable trial outcomes. Our team's deep understanding of California's legal system has resulted in notable successes, including complex drug case dismissals and appellate court victories.
Personal Injury Claims
We represent clients injured in accidents, securing compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. Our firm specializes in automobile accidents, slip-and-falls, and wrongful death claims, achieving six-figure settlements through aggressive negotiation strategies. With a track record of multimillion-dollar jury verdicts, we ensure victims receive full compensation while handling all legal complexities on their behalf.
Bail Bond Assistance
We expedite jail release through trusted bail bond partners, negotiating reduced rates and payment plans for clients. Our immediate response team processes paperwork instantly while providing clear guidance through the bail process. This service includes coordination with law enforcement and courts to ensure swift release while preparing defense strategies for pending charges.
Expungement Services
Our expungement practice helps clients erase past convictions from their records, improving employment and licensing opportunities. We handle all aspects of the process, including court filings and probation department coordination. With expertise in California's expungement laws, we've successfully petitioned for early probation termination and record sealing for numerous clients.
Civil Litigation
We represent clients in civil disputes ranging from breach of contract to complex commercial litigation. Our approach combines thorough case preparation with strategic negotiation to achieve favorable settlements. For matters proceeding to trial, our courtroom-tested attorneys leverage decades of experience to protect clients' financial and business interests through verdicts and appeals.
People
Brian E. Watkins
Founder & Principle Attorney
Admitted to all California state and federal courts, with 28 years of trial experience. Forced policy changes in San Diego police use-of-force practices and secured multimillion-dollar settlements. Recognized by Super Lawyers and featured in national media outlets.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialize in?
We specialize in criminal defense (DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes) and personal injury litigation, with extensive experience in both state and federal court systems.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide complimentary case evaluations to discuss your legal options and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
How do you handle emergency legal situations?
Our emergency 24/7 line connects you directly with legal representation for urgent matters like arrests, warrant clearance, and immediate bail assistance.
What experience do you have in San Diego courts?
For 28 years, we've successfully navigated San Diego's legal system, developing relationships with local prosecutors and judges while achieving favorable verdicts in complex cases.
Can you handle high-profile cases?
Yes, we've represented numerous professionals, athletes, and attorneys in high-visibility cases, maintaining discretion while achieving successful outcomes through trial or negotiation.
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