Business Details
37 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego
Since 1989, our firm has been dedicated to defending the rights of individuals facing criminal charges in San Diego and surrounding areas. With over three decades of experience, we provide aggressive, honest, and client-focused legal representation across a range of criminal defense matters, including drug crimes, domestic violence, weapons charges, and police misconduct. Our practice is built on a foundation of integrity, extensive trial experience, and a commitment to challenging unjust charges while prioritizing client education and transparency. We serve clients in federal and state courts throughout Southern California, emphasizing personalized advocacy and a marathon-like approach to achieving justice. 
Services
Criminal Defense
Drug Crimes
Domestic Violence
Weapons Charges
Gang-Related Crimes
DUI Defense
Police Misconduct
Restraining Orders
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in criminal defense law.
- Our practice emphasizes honest, transparent client communication.
- We offer extensive trial experience and courtroom advocacy.
- We actively participate in legal and community organizations to enhance professional excellence.
- Our firm provides personalized defense strategies tailored to each client's unique case.
What people say
Talented lawyer
Aggressive attorney
True professional
Trustworthy and knowledgeable
Life saver
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense practice provides comprehensive legal representation for individuals facing felony or misdemeanor charges. We focus on building strong cases through thorough investigation, challenging prosecutorial evidence, and advocating for reduced charges or dismissals. Clients benefit from decades of courtroom experience and a commitment to transparent communication about case realities.
Drug Crimes
We defend clients against drug-related charges including possession, distribution, and trafficking. Our approach challenges procedural violations, investigates law enforcement practices, and seeks alternatives to incarceration such as diversion programs. The practice emphasizes minimizing long-term consequences like employment barriers while protecting clients' constitutional rights during investigations and trials.
Domestic Violence
This service specializes in defending false or exaggerated domestic violence allegations. We challenge evidence credibility, investigate relationship dynamics, and address restraining order implications. The practice focuses on preventing unjust criminal penalties while protecting clients' parental rights, employment opportunities, and personal reputations through strategic courtroom advocacy.
Weapons Charges
Our firm handles weapons-related offenses including illegal possession and use enhancements. We analyze law enforcement procedures, challenge constitutional violations, and mitigate sentencing impacts. The practice emphasizes understanding complex California firearm statutes to reduce penalties while preserving clients' Second Amendment rights through evidentiary hearings and plea negotiations.
Police Misconduct
This practice area addresses excessive force, false arrest, and other police misconduct claims. We investigate incidents thoroughly, consult use-of-force experts, and pursue civil remedies for constitutional violations. The service focuses on holding law enforcement accountable while securing compensation for injuries, ensuring justice for clients mistreated during criminal investigations or arrests.
People
Keith H. Rutman, Attorney At Law
Attorney at Law
Criminal defense attorney with 30+ years of experience in San Diego. Graduated from University of San Diego School of Law (1989). Member of National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and American Bar Association. Specializes in trial advocacy and community legal education.
Questions
What criminal defense services do you offer?
We handle drug crimes, domestic violence, weapons charges, gang-related offenses, DUI defense, police misconduct cases, and restraining order disputes across Southern California.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free half-hour consultations to discuss your case details and legal options.
How long have you practiced criminal defense?
Over 30 years in San Diego County, with extensive trial experience in federal and state courts.
Can you handle complex felony cases?
Yes, we specialize in complex felony defense including gang enhancements, weapons violations, and multi-count indictments.
Do you handle record expungement?
Yes, we offer record sealing and expungement services for eligible arrests or convictions.
