If you’ve been charged with a crime in San Diego County, one of your first questions is probably: “How much will a criminal defense lawyer cost me?” It’s a fair question, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress and uncertainty of criminal charges. The answer isn’t always straightforward, but understanding how criminal lawyer cost works can help you make informed decisions about your defense.
The good news is that quality legal representation doesn’t always mean breaking the bank, and the cost of not having proper representation can far exceed any attorney fees. Let’s break down what you can expect when hiring a criminal defense attorney in California in 2026.
Understanding Criminal Defense Attorney Fee Structures
Criminal defense attorneys typically charge in one of several ways, and understanding these structures is the first step in planning your legal budget.
Flat Fee Arrangements
Many criminal defense lawyers charge a flat fee for specific services. This means you pay one predetermined amount that covers your attorney’s representation from start to finish. Flat fees are common for cases like DUIs, misdemeanor offenses, and other routine criminal matters.
In San Diego County in 2026, flat fees typically range from:
- Misdemeanor cases: $2,500 to $10,000
- DUI offenses: $3,000 to $15,000
- Felony charges: $10,000 to $50,000 or more
The advantage of flat fees is predictability. You know upfront what you’ll pay, which helps with budgeting and eliminates surprise bills. However, these fees typically don’t cover appeals or matters that extend significantly beyond the scope of the original agreement.
Hourly Billing
Some attorneys charge by the hour, particularly for complex cases where it’s difficult to predict how much time will be required. Hourly rates for experienced criminal defense attorneys in San Diego typically range from $200 to $600 per hour, with most established attorneys charging between $300 and $450 per hour.
When working on an hourly basis, you’ll typically pay a lawyer retainer California upfront—an initial deposit that the attorney bills against as they work on your case. As the retainer depletes, you may need to replenish it to keep your representation active.
Retainer-Based Representation
A retainer is essentially a down payment on legal services. Think of it as a security deposit that your attorney holds and bills against as they perform work on your case. Retainers for criminal defense cases in San Diego can range from $2,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your charges.
Some retainers are “non-refundable,” meaning the attorney earns that fee upon signing the agreement, regardless of how much work they perform. Others are “refundable,” where unused portions are returned to you when the case concludes.
What Factors Affect Defense Attorney Fees?
Not all criminal cases carry the same price tag. Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for legal representation:
Severity and Complexity of Charges
A simple misdemeanor shoplifting charge requires less time and resources than a complex white-collar fraud case. Felony charges generally cost more to defend than misdemeanors because they involve more serious consequences, more preparation, and often more court appearances.
Attorney Experience and Reputation
An attorney with 20 years of experience and a strong track record will typically charge more than a newly licensed lawyer. However, that experience often translates to better outcomes, more efficient case handling, and deeper knowledge of San Diego County courts and prosecutors.
Time Investment Required
Cases that go to trial require significantly more attorney time than those resolved through plea negotiations. Investigation, witness preparation, motion practice, and trial time all increase legal costs. A case that settles after one or two court appearances will cost considerably less than one requiring a week-long jury trial.
Geographic Location
Legal costs vary by location. San Diego’s cost of living and legal market rates are higher than rural California communities but generally lower than Los Angeles or San Francisco. You’re paying for an attorney who knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors—knowledge that’s invaluable to your defense.
Breaking Down What You’re Paying For
When you hire a criminal defense attorney, you’re not just paying for their time in court. Your defense attorney fees cover numerous essential services:
- Initial consultation and case analysis: Reviewing police reports, evidence, and charges to develop a defense strategy
- Investigation: Interviewing witnesses, obtaining surveillance footage, hiring expert witnesses, and gathering evidence
- Legal research and motion practice: Researching case law, filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges
- Negotiation with prosecutors: Working to reduce charges or secure favorable plea agreements
- Court appearances: Representing you at arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trial
- Communication and updates: Keeping you informed about your case progress and answering your questions
- Administrative work: Preparing documents, filing paperwork, and managing case logistics
When you work with a solo practitioner like Sean Hobson, you’re getting direct access to the attorney handling your case—not paralegals or junior associates. Every phone call, every question, every concern goes directly to the person who knows your case inside and out.
Finding Affordable Criminal Defense Without Sacrificing Quality
Legal costs can feel overwhelming, especially when combined with other financial pressures that criminal charges create. But affordable criminal defense doesn’t mean settling for inadequate representation.
Payment Plans and Financing Options
Many criminal defense attorneys, understanding the financial strain their clients face, offer flexible payment arrangements. Rather than requiring the full fee upfront, they may allow you to pay in installments over several months.
Some options to explore include:
- Monthly payment plans that spread costs over the duration of your case
- Credit card payments, which can offer their own financing benefits
- Legal financing companies that provide loans specifically for attorney fees
- Family assistance or personal loans from banks or credit unions
Don’t hesitate to discuss your financial situation openly with potential attorneys. A good lawyer understands that financial stress is part of what you’re dealing with and will work with you to find a solution.
What About Public Defenders?
Public defenders provide free legal representation to those who financially qualify. They’re skilled attorneys who handle heavy caseloads. However, public defenders typically manage hundreds of cases simultaneously, which means less personal attention and communication than you’d receive from a private attorney.
If you can afford private representation—even through a payment plan—you’ll benefit from more personalized attention, direct communication, and an attorney who can dedicate focused time to developing your specific defense strategy.
The True Cost of Not Hiring an Attorney
While criminal lawyer cost is a legitimate concern, consider the potential costs of inadequate or no representation:
- Criminal convictions that create permanent records affecting employment, housing, and professional licenses
- Jail or prison time that disrupts your life, family, and career
- Fines and court fees that often exceed attorney costs
- Probation conditions that restrict your freedom and require ongoing compliance costs
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens, potentially including deportation
- Loss of driving privileges affecting your ability to work and maintain independence
- Increased insurance rates for certain convictions
Quality legal representation is an investment in your future. The right attorney can often achieve outcomes that save you far more than their fees—whether that’s avoiding jail time, getting charges reduced or dismissed, or protecting your professional license.
Questions to Ask About Fees During Consultations
When meeting with potential attorneys, be direct about costs. Here are important questions to ask:
- What is your fee structure for my type of case?
- What does your fee include and exclude?
- Do you offer payment plans?
- What additional costs should I anticipate (expert witnesses, investigation, filing fees)?
- How do you bill for communications—are phone calls and emails included?
- What happens if my case goes to trial? Are there additional fees?
- Will I work directly with you or with associates and staff?
A transparent attorney will answer these questions clearly and put fee arrangements in writing.
The Solo Practitioner Advantage
Working with a solo practitioner often provides better value than large law firms. You’re not paying for expensive overhead, multiple layers of staff, or subsidizing other attorneys’ cases. Every dollar you invest goes directly toward your representation.
More importantly, you get personalized attention. Your attorney knows your name, your case details, and your concerns without needing to review files before each conversation. This relationship-based approach means more responsive communication, greater accountability, and defense strategies tailored specifically to your situation.
Making the Investment in Your Defense
Criminal charges represent a crisis point in your life. While cost matters, it shouldn’t be the only factor in choosing your attorney. The cheapest option may not provide effective representation, while the most expensive doesn’t guarantee the best results.
Look for an attorney who:
- Has specific experience with your type of charges
- Knows San Diego County courts and prosecutors
- Communicates clearly and treats you with respect
- Offers transparent pricing and flexible payment options
- Provides direct access, not just staff intermediaries
Take the First Step
Understanding legal costs is important, but don’t let cost concerns delay getting legal help. Early intervention by a skilled defense attorney can sometimes prevent charges from being filed or result in more favorable outcomes than waiting.
Most criminal defense attorneys, including Sean Hobson, offer free initial consultations where you can discuss your case, understand your options, and get clear information about costs before making any commitment. This consultation gives you the opportunity to ask questions, assess whether the attorney is right for you, and understand exactly what representation will cost.
Your future is worth protecting. Criminal charges don’t have to define your life, but how you respond to them will shape what comes next. If you’re facing charges in San Diego County, reach out today to discuss your case and learn about flexible financing options that make quality defense accessible. The sooner you have an experienced advocate in your corner, the better your chances of achieving the best possible outcome.