Dan was great help with some info on an asset seizure that happened out of false info! He explained why the US Customs did what they did and said if I need future help he is only a phone call away!

While I'm still in the middle of the situation I needed a lawyer for, I can tell you that the service, support and professionalism given me by San Diego Defenders has been absolutely wonderful. Call them if you need help. They really care about their clients.

I highly recommend Dan Smith and San Diego Defenders to anyone in need of legal assistance. Dan and his team have not only proven to be extraordinarily capable, but they also vest themselves in their clients well being on a personal level.

Over the last 3 years my family and I have lived through a very unfortunate situation that, like many, became much more complicated than necessary once authorities became involved. I have great respect for the police and our legal system, this just wasn't a case that required their involvement. What should have been a simple intervention for addiction became an exaggerated criminal accusation with the State seeking maximum life altering sentences.

My wife and I were very fortunate to have had Dan recommended to us and from the very beginning Dan did all that he could do to defend our son from an over-zealous DA. Dan was successful in reducing or clearing some of the charges, although a single felony remained despite his valiant efforts.

This is were most attorneys would have given themselves a pat on the back and called it a day, but not Dan. He cared! He continued to fight to help for the early release of our Son to an addiction treatment center which Dan found HIMSELF!

Our Son has had a complete turn around in his life, due greatly to Dan and his team's involvement! Even then, our Son had the stigma of a Felony record that has stymied much of his ability to move forward...

Until today! Today my wife, our Son and I attended court with Dan's associate Jon who successfully argued for the State to expunge our Son's record!!! Dan's team has yet again gone above and beyond so as to allow us to recover from a past mistake and instead have the ability to look forward to a much brighter future!

Thank you to everyone at San Diego Defenders! We will always be grateful!

The first time we spoke to Dan I knew everything was going to be ok. Our loved one was charged with embezzlement and with strong evidence against him Dan managed to get him 25 days community service and probation.

Real people work here and will do right by you. Honestly I call NOT expecting much. I figured it would just be someone to tell me how much a retainer would be and kinda write me off like other lawyers I have spoken too in the past without answering any questions. INSTEAD I was greeted by a very polite women who listened to my concerns and questions then transfered me to Dan Smith an attorney there. My brother got in some trouble so I was seeking out my best coarse of action. After hearing my situation he told me hiring him wouldn't be the best coarse of action but then stayed on the phone with me answered all of my questions, looking up records, gave me advice on how, who, and where to go to help my brother and was sympathetic to my situation because he also has a brother he loves. This dude straight up gave me directions down to how many escalators I need to ride to get to who i need to talk to. Anyway I know its a long review but I wanted the reader to get a feel for how appreciative I am that there is still rad people in powerful places when you are at your most vulnerable moments. If you're considering lawyers just give them a call i am sure that after a brief conversation you'll know you are in good hands! Again Thank you Dan!

They understood my case and gave me Hines feedback

God bless Dan Smith, I was in a bind and no other attorneys would take the time to speak to me in person,as soon as I called I was emidiatly assisted and nothing came of the problem.
Thank you San Diego Defenders.

What an amazing an professional team! Unfortunately i got arrested for Dui in April and my alcohol level was really high. This was my first DUI and i was unsure of what might happen. The legal team there is knowledgeable about the laws. I just left their office and i am pleased what i was told. My attorney was able to get the lowest charges reduced and i will not be facing any Jail time. Thank you so much and I am pleased with the outcome. I am amazed about how fast everything got resolved. I highly recommend this team of criminal defense. And they do offer affordable payment plans for anyone who is facing financial difficulties.

He answer all my questions and he was very professional and honest lawyer I recommend him very much

I called him seeing how many great 5 star reviews he had on “Yelp” and I spoke to him over he phone and I can say I understand and see why he has been rated 5 star for what he does he is very honest and does his job out of heart not for the money but to sincerely help someone in need he gave me free advice on how to go about my process.. without charging me and not many people do that so honestly goes along way if you are looking for a honest criminal justice lawyer please go to “ San Diego defenders “ you won’t be disappointed.... thank you San Diego defenders for listening to my case and giving me your honest opinion

THE ONE AND ONLY LAWEY .THAT WAS STRAIGHT UP AND DIDNT WANT TO TAKE MY MONEY AND AWNSER THE PHONE TWO DAYS BEFORE XMAS . AND IF YOU EVER NEED A HONEST LAWEY AND TELLS IT LIKE IT IS . CALL DANGEROUS DAN SMITH

These two gentlemen have had my back the entire way. I’ve done everything they told me to do. And they have been there when the system dropped the ball. They defended me and helped me get my life back. I cannot thank them enough. They are totally worth the money you pay.

Mr. Dan Smith helped our family when we were going through a tough time. He was able to get a sentence reduced from a 20+ years to almost nothing. Mr. Smith was very professional and is very knowledgeable in this field. He explained the process step by step and always answered us promptly with any concerns we had. If your looking for an attorney look no further and contact Dan Smith as our family was very pleased with the outcome. Forever grateful.

I live in Shanghai, China and work for a law firm. A client came to us desperately looking for a criminal defense attorney because her husband, a Chinese national was arrested on dealing with military equipment charges and detained at the San Diego Federal Detention Center. I was looking for an attorney in San Diego area and that's when I came across the San Diego Defenders. without getting any promise of being hired Daniel Smith in no time got on to the case with just the name of the defendant. Daniel Smith wasted no time in investigating the case, seeing the client in jail and communicating with the lead prosecutor!
He provided us with all the relevant information relating to the case and was really helpful .He knew his way around the courts, prosecutors office, jails, judges and all things federal in the area of federal white collar criminal defense the way I saw it .I am really grateful to Dan Smith for his selfless efforts and professionalism .
It is really hard to come across a lawyer so devoted and so understanding.
GREAT LAWYER WITH AN AMAZING HEART!!!
5 stars aren't even enough to rate this Criminal Justice Attorney!!!

This is definitely the best defense attorney I could ever ask for. Dan Smith helped me with a Federal case. He is honest, hard working, fair and deeply concerned for what is right for all people. Him and all his team gives their all and they actually communicates regularly with his clients. Everyone in the office was amazing! Thank you so much!! I highly recommend!!!

Honest, rapid and expert legal advice. Mr. Smith competently defended me from three spurious claims and helped fully clear my name. If I were faced with a similar situation in the future, he would be my first choice.

Qualified Dependable Defenders Time and Time Again.

Worth every penny. I will not consider using anyone else.

(Translated by Google) Thank you very much Mr. Daniel Smith and his team. As soon I spoke to you I feel safe and in good hands regarding my situation.
He’s a great lawyer.

Thank you very much Mr. Daniel Smith and his team, when I finally spoke with you I felt safe and in good hands regarding the situation I was in.
He is a very good lawyer.

(Original)
Thank you very much Mr. Daniel Smith and his team. As soon I spoke to you I feel safe and in good hands regarding my situation.
He’s a great lawyer.

Muchas gracias Sr. Daniel Smith y su equipo, cuando por fin hablé con usted me sentí con seguridad y en buenas manos referente a la situación en la que me encontraba.
Es muy buen abogado.

Dan Smith is the man. Answered my questions and out my mind at ease.

I just got off the phone with Mr.Smith!
He was very helpful' answered my questions and made me feel better about this situation. He gave me free advice which was great! He was the only lawyer that actually gave me answers instead of telling no you just have to wait. And spoke to me about the APP they have which is helpful thank you mr smith. Even the his receptionist was wonderful on the phone. Thank you!

On the recommendation of a friend, I hired them and they gave me hope that i was not previously given. It was no hope built on a dream but hope built of facts.

I just found them 10 minutes ago and I decided to call about my case and they were so quick to help me! They helped me so much with what questions I had about my case. Dan really helped me because before him I was very lost and didn't know what to do. He is not after your money and I'm so happy that there's people like him in the world and his whole team too!

Nice. Job. Cool

I came to ask a question regarding a pending case I have. Daniel not only saw me without an appointment, he gave me some fantastic advice, gave me 30 min of his time, and told me to save my money that my case was fine. Finding an attorney that isn't drooling to take my money? Yea I'd say he's a stand up man. Thank you Daniel.

Dan the Man, what everyone should call him, is very professional and honest. He gave me advice on how to defend my case. Very polite and a great listener. He's a located in Chula Vista, and it pleases me to know that locally amongst us civilians there exist this type of persona and professionalism. Thank you Dan the Man.

As soon as I had a legal issue a friend referred me to Dan Smith. Dan was a great choice. His expertise and professionalism helped me get through a case involving the military. A year later and living in Michigan, the issue came back up. Once again, Dan was very quick to respond and help me all the way in Michigan.

I was an out of state DUI from Washington! My DUI HAPPEN 5 years ago and San Diego Defenders helped me out so much!! Till this day when I have questions they always have time to answer my questions and talk to me. Thank you so much for your help!!!

I went in yesterday because I thought I was going to get a DUI. I spoke to Daniel about my case and everything that happened that night. I was ready to hire him but was having second thoughts because I was unsure of my BAC level and unsure if I should wait. He was kind enough to take the time and check out my BAC report. After him checking he walked back in and told me that I didn't need his services and he gave me my card back. He didn't charge me anything but he was kind enough to help me out. I definitely recommend this place. He changed my view about lawyers.

I am a defense attorney from New York and wanted to find out the laws and codes of San Diego and I called up and spoke to a very courteous attorney who took the time to speak with me and gave me the information I needed. Thank you!

I hired Dan, and Jon services for my presumed DUI charges. Dan first sat with me and gave his undivided attention to review and understand the every details of the case and managed on the spot to give me clear picture on how the case will be treated and details will be regarded. This showed me immediately that he had ample knowledge and experience in these kind if cases. He offered me great payment plans in times of financial instabilities, and worked with me throughout the whole process.
Jon was of significant impact when it came to dealing with all aspects of the case, and made sure that no elements that would help the case where missing.
Layla was also of significant help, being instantly reachable and reliable every single time I needed a question answered, via phone or by email.
I highly recommend talking to Dan or Jon about you case. I'm sure you will not be deceived by the professionalism of these Lawyers.

I can't say enough about this team. From the minute you walk in the door you know your in good hands. Jon Pettis tried my case. I don't know what the outcome is yet but he should be on TV. He is the best most thorough attorney. I am so impressed. I would recommend him for any trial.

We were facing loosing our brother to a prison term if three years, who is also the caretaker of our mother to a DUI, and we saw no way out. He may never see our mother alive again if he went to prison for that long.

We then were fortunate enough to be led to Attorneys Dan Smith and Jon Pettis of SAN DIEGO DEFENDERS in Chula Vista. They were amazingly competent and skilled in handling the case.

They caught every discrepancy in the original report and even went to the location of the incident at the same time of day to verify the reports accuracy. These guys are the the real Perry Mason's! Never ever did we expect this type of support even from the office staff.

The time they spent on this case was as if this was their only case. They were never too busy to talk or unreachable.

We are grateful to them and for all the man hours they put into this case and for the VERY AFFORDABLE PAYMENT PLAN.

We did pray to be led to the perfect attorney...I BELIEVE HE ANSWERED.

I recommend them highly to anyone that wants the best chance for success.

As soon as I called the office, the staff was very polite and undestanding. They assisted me and answered all my questions. The lawyer called me back the same day and I was amazed on his excellent customer service and professionalism. He answered all my questions. He knows the law and put my mind at ease. Thank you so much.

Spoke with Mr.Smith,he took the.time to.answer all my questions and put my mind at ease..out of all the attorneys I spoke with he was the one to take his time and.discuss all my worries.Hes not about taking what you got...I would recommend him to anyone.

In April of last year I received a DUI, it was my first time receiving one and I was confused and I didn't know who to turn to. I came across Attorney Dan Smith's office when I had driven by the office and noticed he was running for Chula Vista City Council and was a lawyer as well. I hired Dan to fight for my DUI situation and in less than 6 months he was able to get me my license back and save my job at FedEx as a driver after being with then for thirteen years. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Dan Smith. They are very reasonable and flexible, they even let me make monthly payments for my case. If it wasn't for Dan and his team I would've lost my job and I am very thankful for giving me the opportunity to help me keep my job and license.

My name is Luis Ayala and I was referred to Dan Smith by a friend and it was the best thing that could ever happen to me, I was involved in a DUI with an 1.8 BAC and Dan went above and beyond on my case it was real tough case because I could not renew my E1 Visa if I have a DUI,he fought for me and got my case reduce to a Wet Reckless,I would recommend Dan and the San Diego Defenders team if you ever get in ordeal like me Dan is the Man ,he will fight for you and get the deal done don't hesitate to make him your lawyer,THANKS DAN!!!!!!!

Was so surprised how prompt Mr.Smith answered my questions right on the spot over the phone so professional , iam so thankful that he took the time, now iam at ease... God bless

Dan Smith is extremely helpful because he knows the law and actually cares about you and your case

I asked for Mr. Daniel Smiths advice when a man saying to be with the DEA called my house claiming that I was making illegal purchases on the web. The DEA agent then went further to say that I could clear my name of the felony by wiring him 1,800.00, and he gave me half an hour to do it. This man sounded extremely convincing, he had a badge number, case number... the whole nine yards. I had my car keys in my pocket and I was just about out the door when I remembered the Legal Guide in the Reader. I called Mr. Smiths completely out of the blue and he told me it was a scam. I don't have much experience with lawyers but I can honestly say that this experience was extremely helpful. Mr. Smith was courteous and understanding about my situation and I would highly recommend his counsel for anyone who feels like they need a good attorney.

"Dan Smith the Absolute Best Criminal Lawyer In California" I was arrested at a club in downtown San Diego for fighting (P.C 243 Battery). It was a Felony Strike Battery with Serious Bodily Harm. I was looking at a sentence of 2-3-4 years in a state prison. During the arrest I was already on probation from a previous battery in North County, which I made the mistake of going with a no name lawyer and just wasted my money. I knew this time around I needed to make the best investment of a lawyer possible or I was going to be facing probation violation and a strike with time served. I asked around for the best lawyer 3 people I asked recommended Dan Smith. I immediately called him and he scheduled me for a personal face to face meeting. Walking into the office I immediately felt I knew I was in the right spot. Dan worked the case and explained all avenues of approach with me, he was the most stand up lawyer I have ever encountered and I been under care from 3 lawyers previous to him. Dan worked with the DA hand to hand and tried to get me the best deal possible but the DA would not budge enough for my liking or Dans we decided to take it to Prelim.The next few weeks Dan worked with me and anytime I needed him he was just a phone call away. We then were going into Prelim and Dan had told me "Judges are known to bind over a ham sandwich so do not be discouraged when the case gets sent to trial." Dan kept me calm and cool and then we entered the court room. We were in court for about 3 hours and he literally destroyed the other parties defense, (A police officer) (The alleged victim) (Bouncer from the club) and (Attorney). He found holes and mistakes in all of their statements reports and comments. After calling my witnesses to the stand and the alleged victim, the Judge turned around to the alleged victim and said "you are lucky you are standing here today with us and this man did not hurt you even more." The Judge then said he would not bind over the charged and dismissed my (P.C 243 D Felony Battery w. Serious Bodily Harm) right there on the spot. I walked out in tears thanking Dan for his righteousness and ability to provide the best service I have ever seen. I was never brought back to court and he was able to stop any issues from the probation violation. On top of the perfect service he provided me with an amazing payment plan which fit my income. HAT OFF TO YOU SIR THANK YOU VERY MUCH!! I WILL STAND NEXT TO YOU IN COURT ANY DAY!! Do not go anywhere else this is who you want to represent you.

After running into some legal troubles, I saw an ad for San Diego Public Defenders and called them up. I am so glad that I did. Dan, Layla and Jon were all amazing to work with. Layla was always available to answer any questions I had and was nothing but genuinely friendly. Dan is an amazing lawyer and gets the job done. He doesn't make promises that he knows he cannot keep and was upfront with me about my options. Dan had my misdemeanor charge dropped to an infraction and I couldn't be more grateful for everything they have done to help me through this difficult time. Thank you for all your help! I would definitely recommend them to anyone.

San Diego Defenders were one of the best investments I have done. I was arrested for a DUI, with a BAU of 1.5. After notifying my employer, it became obvious, that I was in jeopardy of loosing my job. My attorney was able to negotiate a reduction of charges, and safe my job. I hope I never have to refer anyone, however, it the need came up, I would not hesitate to strongly recommend SD Defenders.

I had a heavy DV case, including 3 felonies. I was recommended to Dan and Alan, best lawyer hands down, i was looking at 10-15 years an working with Dan and Alan got diminished to a misdemeanor an DV class even my PO was surprised with the plead bargain said it was as good as i coulve gotten. Whole time they were with very positive an professional couldnt have been a better hands down. Any criminal cases i wouldnt think twice about going with this very strong team!

I had a legal problem with no where to turn. Dan Smith a lawyer in chula vista, called me back immediately on his time off during a holiday to help me through my problem. He was thoughtful and concerned about my problem, and let me know how to go about fixing it, and what he could do to help.

Thanks Dan

San Diego Defenders are very professional when it comes to legal advice or representation. When I met with Daniel M Smith he assisted right away and I would give him my highest recomendation.

Thank you

San Diego Defender's Daniel Smith and Jon Pettis are attorneys that know their stuff. I had a previous DUI several months ago and was driving with a restriction drivers license, so I thought. Cops pulled me over in September driving back home from work for tag expiration and found out that my license was suspended again for my DUI plea deal back in May. What had happen was the DMV re-suspended my license for that and didn't notified me of it to rectify the situation. Found out the citation the cops issued came with a mandatory 10 days in jail and with that info I started freaking out almost like a panic attack. I contacted San Diego Defenders located in Chula Vista next to the courthouse and everyone at the law office were very friendly. They told me not to worry and they'll take care of my case aggressively and they did. Tonight I got a call back from Daniel Smith and he told me one of the greatest news I've got this year: CASE DISMISSED!!! Weight lifted off my shoulder. Thank you Daniel, Jon and Leah for your hard work. I would definitely recommend your law firm. Once again thank you from the bottom of my heart.

This is my second time in the last 4 years working with Mr Dan Smith. Unfortunately4 years ago I was stopped for a suspected DUI , that is when I met Dan Smith. Dan was very helpful and got all of the fines and charges down to the bare minimum. Once again a few months ago I reached out to Dan Smith for a different charge( sorry I dont want to disclose what the charge was but it was not my fault) with that said I know I had my hands full. Once again Dan Smith got my case dropped and my name is now free and clear today. I cant thank Dan Smith and his team enough for the time and effort spent on both of my cases. I would recommend Dan Smith to anyone who is looking for a hard working individual who will get the case settled for you, thanks again Dan Smith

Prior to my case I've never been in any sort of contact with the law, so when I was arrested I had no idea how to handle the situation or what the outcome would be. Luckily, my parents found Dan Smith and he took my case, which ended up turning into a high profile case.

As a lawyer he is very professional. You have complete confidence in his knowledge and ability. He talks to you step by step at the process and state your case is in at the moment and lets you know exactly what kind of action he is going to take next and makes sure he has your consent. As his client he makes you feel like you are the only client he has. When he consults you its always on a personal level and he doesn't do anything to keep you in the dark. I always felt like he did everything possible to get the best result for my case.

As a person Dan is patient and very empathetic. He understands that you are probably in a lot of stress during your case and he takes that into account when he talks to you about your case. During my case there was a lot of pressure being put on by the media but he always made me feel like it was all manageable and he gives you the impression that no matter what curve ball is thrown at you guys, he'll know what to do and how to handle it.

Highly recommend Dan Smith. Great lawyer and great person, you can't go wrong with him.

Words can not do justice for the help that San Diego Defenders gave me when I needed it the most. Although I have not dealt with any attorneys in the past, there is no doubt in my mind that Dan, Layla,and Mr. Pettis are the best that there is. Not only were they able to get my case dismissed, they were there every step of the way to help reassure me everything was going to be ok. They worked with me when I had financial troubles to establish a payment plan that worked and was affordable to me. I never felt that I wasn't being taken care of. Layla was available every time I called to help advise me in my legal matters. They made me feel as if I had my own personal law firm that I could get help from whenever I needed it, but more than that they made me feel like a friend or family member when attending to my case. Dan and Layla are more than just attorneys, they are members of the South Bay community. They believe in their community and defending the people that need it. In all sincerity, the San Diego Defender team truly cares about the people that they help. I would give them my highest recommendation possible. Overall, they are just about the best people you could meet.