I want to truly appreciate San Diego Defenders , Dan Smith and his professional team, especially Itzel, for helping us get our car back. The process wasn't quick and required a lot of patience, but they handled everything amazingly. What stood out the most was their effort to keep the towing fee low--I honestly expected to pay much more because of how long the case took. I'm very grateful for their professionalism and support throughout the entire process. I Recommend them 100%. read more

We got our car back - although the situation seemed very complex, they were able to set forth the arguments and negotiate a fair price. So grateful! Easy to understand process and they follow up. Itzel was very helpful and professional. read more

We highly recommend San Diego Defenders! We cannot thank them enough, our family was going through a very stressing situation, we had no idea what to do or where to start. My mom found their website and we called. We cannot even begin to explain how much weight they lifted off our shoulders from that 1st phone call. They were so helpful, answered any questions we had, reassured us they were going to do everything they could to help us and THEY DID!!! And cannot even forget about their payment plans, which was a big plus for us. Si estan pasando por una situacion con CBP no duden en llamarlos, son los mejores. Sabemos el estres que es estar pasando por esa situacion y no saber que hacer, a quien llamar, llamenlos a ellos, NO SE VAN A ARREPENTIR! Y Hablan espanol que es lo mas importante. Thank you so much Mr. Smith and Itzel, we cannot thank you enough! You really are the best! read more

1/10/2024 * UPDATED REVIEW* i finally received my vehicle back from border patrol/the towing company. I cant thank SDD, Itzel, Attorney Smith, and Layla for everything they have done and helped me understand the process throughly. Read my first review for a more detailed story! read more

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They are the best team! They helped with my case and resolved all my concerns, very kind, they explained me everything and also got me and amazing deal! I definitely recommend them read more

I highly recommend San Diego Defenders. My car was seized by Border Patrol, and they wanted me to pay over 19k to get my car back. SD Defenders was able to negotiate for me to only pay the storage and towing fees, totaling a little over $600, which saved me thousands. I don't know what I would have done without their help. They are absolutely amazing! read more

Big shoutout to Dan and Itzel, for their assistance with getting my 2017 Nissan Sentra from CBP. They took care of everything online for me since I live in Northern California and couldn't go in person. TLDR: my elderly mother that lives in SD got fooled into some shady stuff at the boarder and CBP confiscated the car, even though I was the registered owner. Mom wasn't charged or anything but they kept that car. I called Dan and his team the day after to get details and started the process once I received the paper work from CBP and took care of everything over email, until it was time to pick up the car from the impound. Dan and his team we very professional and informative during the whole process. I will be getting my car back in a few days and I could've thank Dan and Team enough for their help. Who know how long I would have been waited for CBP to get back to me on my own. Thanks again Dan & Itzel read more

Dangerous Dan. Name speaks for it self. Highly recommended. My car was seized by the government and when hope was gone of getting it back. Dangerous Dan got it within a month and a half. He's really professional and gets to the point so the proses can be simple and easy. Dan and his secretaries did an outstanding job in communicating everything the second they get the info. read more

Updating my review after 2 years: Please take your case here!! It's been about two years since Dan and the lovely ladies helped me out with my seized car. Since then, I haven't been pulled over nor interrogated by police or CBP. I was pulled into secondary inspection on the way back from Mexico once, but that was it. Overall, AMAZING LAWYERS! They make sure your record isn't stained and fight for you! If you are fighting a HS seized car case, they can help. Shoutout to San Diego Defenders! read more

There are no more stars or they would end up with . The very best and works with you they make you feel part of the team and do not judge or make you feel inferior due to your circumstances. I was able to get last minute help and boy did they delivered what was expected. My vehicle will be released soon and to top it off in less than 3 months. I also needed a letter justifying my arrest/detention due to a new government position. Dan was able to provide a letter that states exactly what was needed to be cleared and work for the federal government. Very happy with all there services specially Dan!!! read more

CPB officers seized currency from me that was in excess of $10,000 at Otay Mesa Port of Entry for failing to declare. The CBP officer didn't even want to give me any documentation that showed they seized currency other than a seizure number and phone number. When I asked for a receipt the CBP officer told be that they don't give receipts because they seized the money. I told her that with a seizure the money still belongs to me and its not a forfeiture. I wan't going anywhere without a document showing how much money was seized. She went and got her supervisor and he told me that they would be providing me documents before I left and answered my questions. You can appeal and attempt to have the money returned by yourself, but you never want to go against the government without having a lawyer on your side. The next couple days I contacted different law offices and not many deal with Asset Seizures. I contacted San Diego Defenders and spoke with Dan, he was more than happy to help me with my case. I could tell Dan was very knowledgable and experienced based off our conversations. He was very professional and when I contacted his Law Office Dan made time to speak with me or if he was out of the office he returned my call in a more than timely manner. The end results was in my favor as CBP is returning my money. If I hadn't had Dan as my lawyer I don't know if I would of received my money back from the government. It took less than three months to find out CBP was returning my money. I have nothing but good things to say about Dan and the others at San Diego Defenders. Hopefully I won't need a lawyer again, but if I ever do, Dan will be the first one I call. read more

I needed an experienced attorney to get my vehicle back that was seized by Border Patrol. Daniel and his team, Itzel and Layla were awesome! they were able to get the towing and storage fees reduced and get my car released in less time than expected I'm very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend them and use them again if I ever need to(hopefully not) :) read more

I cannot thank this office enough! My son got I to a stupid situation by mistake and his car was confiscated. A car that was in my name. After getting the letter with our options and talking g to a few people it was clear they planned on keeping the vehicle or drawing out the process for months and months causing more fees and fines. Even though he was not charged with a crime! I was scared. After my initial call to his office, Dan personally called me back and put my mind at ease. Apparently, this is a common situation and his office knew exactly how to handle it. They were able to negotiate getting our car back within 6 weeks and I cannot thank them enough. If you're on the fence about the fee, I will tell you that it is worth it and the most cost effective option you will find. When picking up one car I mentioned how lengthy a process it was and was told that some cars have been on hold for up to TWO YEARS! I cannot imagine what the fees would be after that time. Thank you again to Dan and his staff for being kind, helpful, knowledgeable and getting the job done! read more

San Diego Defenders was really awesome and I appreciate the time Dan Smith took to speak with me. I'm not going to lie it definitely is a little tricky to get ahold of them, I had to try a few times. However, I guess that's to be expected for any law office due to their crazy schedule. The situation Dan advised me in is not an area he practices law, so unfortunately our search for an attorney continues. However, he was still kind enough to give me some advice and said I could contact him again if I had any other questions. I would definitely recommend to anyone who is seeking an attorney. Don't be afraid to be a little pushy of getting ahold of them, I'm sure they deal with worse. ;) Thank you again! read more

I really do appreciate them.I was stress free .I highly recommend this firm.Very kind professional made me feel at ease.Thank You . So much..Big thumps up. read more

San Diego Defenders were very instrumental for my case. I appreciate the time Dan Smith and his legal team took to handle my case which resulted in my favor. They were easy to reach when needed and provided a fairly quick turnaround & response given their heavy case load. They were also willing to work with my financial situation and established a payment plan. I would definitely recommend to anyone who is seeking an attorney! read more

If I could give them 100 stars I would if your car is seized please do not hesitate to contact Daniel Smith! After my boyfriend got his car seized by CPB we had no idea what to do! I searched online and that is when I came across San Diego defenders. From the moment I contacted them they were responsive and helpful. They explained to me the entire process. When I was ready I contacted them they gave me instructions and from then it was a waiting process that took shorter than expected. Today my boyfriend was able to pick his car up. Thank you Mr.Smith and Itzel for being very kind, friendly and helpful. read more

They are best I had trouble finding an attorney to help me get my car back. My car was taken by the Border Patrol. I searched everywhere to find an attorney to help me as there aren't many that help with this type of situations. I happened to find them and they did exactly what they said. I got my car back took about 2 months but the wait was so worth it. Their prices are fair and they work with you on a payment plan if needed. I highly recommend them to everyone in the same situation I was in, believe me they are worth every penny. read more

This review is long over due. I got myself into a bit of trouble, but dan helped me out big time. This was the only time I have ever been in trouble, but Chula Vista court was trying to throw the book at me. I was charged with felony evading, disregard for public endangerment and driving on a suspended license. Dan got me out ASAP on parental O.R. After O.R failed. He got everything reduced down to a misdemeanor and fines reduced to $0 with time served. Dan and his staff amazing. I went in a year later to get a copy of paperwork and his secretary was great. She has a great memory!! I said my name and she remembered every detail. This is the perfect criminal attorney if your in need of one!! read more

5/5. Let me just begin by saying my family got into legal issues with USBP, which we did not cause however our property was seized by them because of a friend. Won't get into detail on that, however my questions, doubts and stress was all taken care of by these guys ! From the first call, to Ashley who then helped and Dan Smith himself ... I can say my worries are no more ! They did a phenomenal job taking care of our situation, explaining everything and staying in contact with us throughout this process . Thank you guys, truly from I and my whole family who we're affected. As of today we got our property (car) back! I highly recommend these guys! Also their payment system, is a plus ! Thanks again guys ! read more

Truly blessed and thankful to have had the opportunity to working with, San Diego Defenders Dan Smith and Ashley Ortega. CBP seized and forfeiture My 2018 Honda Accord for having an illegal immigrant which what happened to be my cousin. I wasn't charged i was booked and then release 12 hours later . Not knowing what was going to happened to my vehicle with it being a lease . I gave San Diego defenders a call Dan Smith he was able to get my vehicle release within the 3 months . Thanks pal !! and his assistant Ashley Ortega so helpful with updates on letting me know what was going on throughout the case thank u! read more

Nothing good to say about Dan Smith as he treated me nothing but pure hostility as soon as I entered the building. I'm a 53 year old man and well decorated veteran who served our country for 24 years of honorable service. Who gave him the right to disrespect me or anyone who's only seeking for his assistance. Didn't even entertained or even willing to let me speak about the case and already quoted me $30-40k to take my case. So, if you're shopping for the right lawyer to represent and show you at least some respect, Dan Smith is definitely the most unprofessional individual I've ever encountered and nothing but evil. Also, to all my brothers/sisters-in-arms, he completely told me and with no hesitation "WHO CARES" when I said, I'm also 100% Service Connected disabled Veteran. I only mentioned this to somehow assist with the case using the VTRC(Veteran' Treatment Rehabilitations Court) Program. If you noticed never did I addressed him "Mr" and only wish there's an option to give him "0" star for this review!!! Edit 1: I was blocked to reply to his DM:: Regardless of what my lawyer did or how difficult for any lawyer to take my case, no one has any right to treat people the way you treated me with such hostility and disrespect. I'm already in dire need of who I strongly believed to present himself with such professionalism and even show a bit of compassion. I left your office more disturbed than ever knowing it would be hard to find a reputable lawyer who I can trust and will treat their clients with honor and respect! read more

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! read more

Mr. Smith took the time with genuine care to explain to me available options for my situation. Each interaction with the office was always very kind and fair. They put me at ease and helped relieve a lot of the stress. I wouldn't hesitate to call upon them in the future, although I sincerely hope that situation never arises! :) If you are needing legal advice in this area of expertise, do not hesitate calling San Diego Defenders. read more

I wanted to give my endorsement for Attorney Daniel Smith and San Diego Defenders. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. When it comes to legal advice or representation, you definitely don't want to go bargain basement or (heaven forbid) the public defender route. A very close friend of mine landed into some legal problems. After much research, Attorney Daniel Smith was chosen by my friend's family to represent him in court. Attorney Smith's attention to detail and knowledge really made a huge impact. Attorney Smith has great rapport with members of the court and is well respected among his peers. He treats his clients in a kind, caring, compassionate manner. You get the whole package. Attorney Daniel Smith is a winner. read more

Thanks you to dan smith and his legal team!!! He is a great attorney and I would definitely recommend him to ANYONE dealing with legal issues. San Diego defenders had my back all the way up to sentencing and even though my case want gonna be easy dan and his team worked tirelessly around the clock and kept me out of jail. ME AND MY family are extremely grateful keep u ppl the great work!!! God bless read more

Sometimes life throws a curve ball at you......a hard curve ball. Thank goodness for Dan Smith and his staff for going up to bat for me when I needed legal representation. He was referred to me by a good friend of mine that I trust. I had never needed an attorney and didn't know what steps to take. When we met he made me feel comfortable and gave the best advice. He was very detailed with my options and different outcomes but assured me that he would do his best. So ultimately SD Defenders made a really bad situation .........much, much better then expected! I have referred a couple people to Dan Smith for his services and will continue to do so. He gets results! read more

Just visited Dan's office for the first time. Gotta tell ya - Attorney Dan projects competence, confidence and compassion, in a way you can't fake. Yeah, I think you should call him. read more

I can't say enough about this firm. Daniel and his staff are knowledgeable, professional and will get the job done. When you are in a bind and need a top notch lawyer....call the San Diego Defenders! Thank you!! read more

I'm very happy to Have @ San Diego Defenders by our side! We are being help with a Federal case! Mr Daniel Smith works really hard to help people he's representing plus goes the extra mile to make you feel better! Went in to his office and as soon as going in very welcoming! Makes you feel at home and he doesn't see you as a criminal, he treats you like family! Wish there were more lawyers like him! And His partners! From: Eli read more

On October 1st I found myself in a situation where my vehicle would be taken by border patrol due to a undocumented person within my vehicle down in south Texas (US 77 route to be specific). I had no clue what to do , and customs agents gave minimum information as to where my car was being taken. After researching online I reached out to Mr.Smith and San Diego Defenders. On the date of November 16th I received the call from Mr.Smith with complete and full details for my cars release. I'm very thankful for the entire team on answering all my calls and emails for any questions or concerns I may have had throughout the case. This team works with you on their amazing payment plans , keeps in touch with you , and wins their cases in amazing time frames. If you or anyone you know goes through a similar situation as mine, GET WITH THIS TEAM ASAP. Even all the way in California, they'll help out in Texas as well ! Thank you guys so much ! read more

These are the BEEEEST lawyers ever I had a tough case with CBP they had my 2017 Ford explorer seized and forfeiture, my car is in a lease and they were making it very difficult to win my case , tbh I was looking for a lawyer that could help me in this case but I had no luck some would advertise they help in that field but once I would call they would say they couldn't take my case because they didn't work in such thing , so to me it was impossible and I thank God sooooo much that I ranned into Dan Smith youtube video which is the lawyer who took my case (San Diego defenders) I called them and left a message they got to me the next day, took my case and fought for my case really hard I just loved how they take their time to hear you out , they actually pay attention to what your concerns are any questions you may have you get them answered it's so hard to find honest and caring lawyers most now days only care about the money but I thank God this wasn't the case these lawyers actually help you they care for you I'm the happiest customer ever and I 100% would recommend them they won my case got my car back it was supposed to be a long process which it was but because I hadn't found a lawyer and tbh it is a long process CBP really does make everything almost impossible they violate all your rights and accuse people of things that isn't true but with the help of GOOD PROFESSIONAL LAWYERS like Mr Dan Smith and his office everything went fast once I found them I love them and once again I highly recommend them 100% BAD ASS lawyers hats off for them !!!!!! read more

San Diego Defenders - Criminal Defense Law Near Me - Chula Vista, California

If I could give Dan 20 stars I would, I'm going to try and keep it short because it truly has been a long time coming. But when I say it is worth the wait because he is so well versed in handling cases that involve getting your assets back that it is mind blowing. The majority of the time came from CBP taking their sweet time within the allocated time ranges but other than that Dan, Itzel and Layla have been magnificent they are on point when it comes to communication. For me I didn't want to keep waiting to get the fee's lower so the first number that was said I agreed and it was still FAR LOWER THAN I EXPECTED it to be. The "Historic" figures aren't guaranteed obviously but they are very close and that is transparency you can't be mad at. From the day CBP took my vehicle and didn't charge me to the day I picked my vehicle up due to Dan's expertise was 4months. Which is fast considering you are dealing with a federal entity. Go look at the YouTube videos and don't think twice about hiring SAN DIEGO DEFENDERS read more

A career ending situation came about in my life involving getting behind the wheel , and these guys literally fought tooth and nail to save my ass. My case took about 7 months but after it was all said and done , I did not get a record or anything major to ruin my career or future. I recommend them any day of the week seriously. They even worked above and beyond and got me too keep my driving privileges through it all ! GREAT TEAM read more

My son's car was seized by border patrol and we were afraid we would never see it again. Dan and Ashley were quick and attentive to all of our questions and concerns. My son received his car back and we are greatly relieved. I highly recommend San Diego Defenders! read more

Dan smith is the man.! If u are in need of good honest lawyer to help u with your dui case don't hesitate and give San Diego Defenders a call they are the best and have the best price, they are in the business of helping people, not taking people's money. We had a problem, and he helped us the best he can. Thanks Dan and staff... read more

Great guys all around . I was a client of theirs a couple years ago and they helped me with my situation . They were able to handle it and give me peace of mind . Fast forward to the present , I needed information about my case for a job I was in the process of getting . They took the time out of their day and called me to give me the information I needed to know even tho I was know longer a client . They really take care of you . read more

On around February 2020 I had my car siezed by campo ca by the border patrol claiming I was doing illegal activities from the way it seemed or looked we weren't going to have a chance to get our car back but thanks to the defenders they are handling everything for me for a very affordable payment plan hope in pray in jesus name everything goes well and I get my car back they are very nice people I totally recommend the defenders law to help with any similar situations read more

Forever grateful for the representation, education, and peace of mind provided by the entire team at San Diego Defenders. To err is human, to seek proper representation is divine! read more

I've known Dan Smith for years, and recently he and his partner Jon Pettis helped a close friend get out of a sticky situation with top notch service at an incredibly affordable rate. As far as I'm concerned, they're the best in the business. I would wholeheartedly and without hesitation recommend and refer any and all of my friends and family to the San Diego Defenders. read more