WELCOME TO SAN DIEGO DEFENDERS

Representing clients in all 50 states, we are your trusted criminal defense team, dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. With experienced attorneys available 24/7, we provide strong, personalized defense for asset seizures (cash, crypto, or cars seized by CBP, DEA, FBI, etc.) DUIs, felonies, misdemeanors, and more. We also handle federal cases and can assist clients nationwide.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

Forfeiture Lawyer California

OUR TEAM

Attorneys Dan Smith & Jon Pettis. Spanish-Speaking Paralegals Layla Smith & Itzel Martinez. Legal Assistant Izabella Hudika.

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EXCELLENT
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Based on 98 reviews
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Attal Gran profile picture
Attal Gran
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I cannot thank San Diego Defenders enough. I had a seizure issue in Vermont but Mr.Smith, Ms. Martinez and the rest of the team were able to have my items released to me, which has solved a major issue in my life. Even if you are outside of California, I would still really recommend reaching out to them for help
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Hector Arvayo profile picture
Hector Arvayo
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Hola!! solo para agradecer a el abogado Daniel Smith y a Itzel Martínez ya que el pasado 3 de mayo fui víctima de un altercado donde me solocarin sirva en mi carro antes de cruzar a estado unidos y del cual gracias a Dios salí libre e inocente pero debido a ello me retuvieron mi carro nuevo de agencia año 2026 afortunadamente logre obtener las cartas rápido para recuperación del carro, a lo cual yo con la mentalidad es fácil y puedo mande la primer respuesta a lo que esta respuesta obtuve como resultad un rotundo NO TE REGRDAREMOS EL COCHE!! y ahí fue donde entro el equipo del abogado DANIEL SMITH al cual estoy sumamente agradecido ya que a pesar de todo logró recuperar mi carro intacto y afortunadamente está ya en mis manos!! a lo cual hago costar que son realmente de fiar, confiables y muy profesionales los recomendó ampliamente!!
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Alex Zhong profile picture
Alex Zhong
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The best California law firm on forfeiture cases! I had the honor to work with Mr. Daniel Smith on two seized cash cases. Both cases had some unusual hurdles, but Mr. Smith worked so hard and brilliantly, and got 100% back for both cases. I would recommend Mr. Daniel Smith to anybody who needs service.
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Maritza Puerto profile picture
Maritza Puerto
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I want to express my sincere gratitude to Attorney Sandra Lopez from Federal Defenders of San Diego. She showed incredible compassion and professionalism when she visited my husband at the Otay Mesa Detention Center to understand his situation and offer legal guidance. She even took the time on a Saturday to meet with several detainees who needed help. In a very difficult moment for our family, her kindness, dedication, and willingness to listen meant more than words can describe. It is rare to find someone who combines strong legal knowledge with such genuine humanity. I am truly grateful for her support and for the work she does helping people who need it most. Thank you so much for everything you do for the community. 🙏
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David clemente profile picture
David clemente
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Highly recommended John has help me twice those hearing has been succefull. Highly recommended he takes his take time and he does a lot of effort for the cases.
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dr profile picture
dr
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This law office is one of the best law office, they are fast in response and definitely NOT a scammer. They are honest and nice. My BF's car which was under my name got taken into CBP and was almost nearly unretrievable, but San Diego Difenders patiently helped me in long term and at the end I could get my car back from CBP. They were really considerate toward my problem and really respectful. They do answer your calls and answer your questions. I really appreciate their kindness and patience. They are one of the very rare real hearted lawyer! If you are looking for a lawyer for CBP issues, trust me and go to them.

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