Criminal Defense
Assault & Battery Defense Attorney in San Diego
Self-defense is not a crime. We tell your side of the story and challenge the state's version of what happened.
Assault and battery charges in San Diego often arise from chaotic, fast-moving situations — a bar altercation, a heated argument, or a moment where you had every right to defend yourself. Yet police frequently arrest first and sort out the details later, leaving you to answer for something you may not have started. At Tegnelia & DeBose, APC, we dig into what actually happened: who was the aggressor, whether you acted in lawful self-defense or defense of another, and whether the injuries and threats were exaggerated. We locate witnesses, secure surveillance footage, and expose inconsistencies in the accuser's account. Whether you're facing a simple battery or a serious aggravated-assault charge carrying strike consequences, we fight to protect your freedom and your record.
What We Handle
Charges & Cases We Defend
Our defense covers the full range of related charges and proceedings. If your situation isn't listed, call us — we handle it.
(619) 876-0992The Process
How We Defend Your Case
Every case is different, but our approach is disciplined and relentless from the first call to the final resolution.
Reconstruct the Incident
We gather video, medical records, and witness statements to establish who really started the confrontation.
Build the Defense
We develop self-defense, defense-of-others, or lack-of-intent theories supported by the evidence.
Neutralize Enhancements
We fight deadly-weapon and great-bodily-injury allegations that can turn a misdemeanor into a strike felony.
Resolve or Try
We negotiate for dismissal or reduction and are fully prepared to take your case to trial.
Assault & Battery Penalties in California
Penalties turn on the level of force, any injury, the use of a weapon, and the identity of the alleged victim. This is general information, not legal advice.
- Simple assault/battery: misdemeanor, fines, and possible jail
- Assault with a deadly weapon: 'wobbler' with felony exposure
- Great-bodily-injury enhancement: added prison time and a strike
- Battery on protected victims carries elevated penalties
- Strike convictions trigger California's Three Strikes law
The Difference
Why Hire a Private Criminal Defense Attorney
When your freedom and future are at stake, the right advocate makes all the difference. Here's what you get with a dedicated private defense team.
Time & Attention
Public defenders are overworked and stretched thin. We limit our caseload so your case gets the focus it deserves.
Early Intervention
We get involved from day one — often before charges are filed — when the biggest opportunities to change the outcome exist.
Independent Investigation
We deploy our own investigators and experts rather than relying on the police report the prosecution hands us.
Direct Access
You work directly with your attorney, not a rotating cast. Call, text, or email — we keep you informed at every step.
FAQ
Assault & Battery Defense FAQs
Answers to common questions about assault & battery defense cases in San Diego.
Assault (PC 240) is an attempt or threat of violence; battery (PC 242) is the actual unlawful touching. You can be charged with one or both depending on the facts.
Charged with Assault & Battery? Don't wait.
The sooner we get involved, the more we can do. Your first consultation is free.
Related Practice Areas
Explore Related Defenses
Get a Free, Confidential Case Review
Speak directly with Attorney Marcus DeBose about your case. No pressure, no judgment — just a clear plan to protect your future.
- Free Consultation
- Se Habla Español
- 24/7 Case Review
- Former Prosecutor Insight