Serving San Diego County & North County to Oceanside
Free Confidential Consultation  ·  Call 619-440-6766
Lester McDonald Attorney at Law
San Diego Criminal Defense & Traffic Attorney

Charged with a crime or facing a traffic ticket in San Diego? You don't have to face it alone.

Straightforward, experienced defense for misdemeanors, DUI, drug offenses, traffic violations, and DMV hearings — across all of San Diego County.

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Free Initial Consultation
Reasonable Fair, upfront rates
County-Wide San Diego to Oceanside
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What We Handle

Defense focused on the charges that affect everyday people

A primary focus on misdemeanor defense, traffic matters, and DMV hearings — with select felony representation.

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Traffic Tickets & Violations

Speeding, moving violations, and traffic offenses throughout San Diego County. Protect your record, your insurance rates, and your license.

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DUI & Drunk Driving

Defense for first-time and repeat DUI charges, including the criminal case and the related DMV proceedings.

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DMV Hearings

Time-sensitive license suspension hearings. Acting quickly after an arrest can make the difference in keeping you on the road.

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Drug Offenses

Possession and related drug charges, with a focus on options that protect your future and your record.

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Theft, Fraud & More

Petty theft, insurance fraud, child endangerment, and other misdemeanors — plus select felony defense.

Meet Lester McDonald

A criminal charge or even a traffic ticket can feel overwhelming — especially for a young driver or a family facing it for the first time. Lester McDonald has spent over 40 years guiding San Diegans through exactly these moments with calm, clear, no-nonsense advice.

A San Diego resident since 1978 and practicing law here since 1981, Lester knows the local courts, the prosecutors, and how these cases really play out. That experience means honest answers from your very first call — what you're up against, your options, and what comes next.

This is a small, personal practice by design. You work directly with Lester from start to finish — never handed off to a rotating cast of staff. He keeps his rates reasonable and his fees upfront, so good defense stays within reach. From downtown San Diego and Chula Vista up through North County to Oceanside, Lester defends clients across the entire county.

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Lester McDonald, San Diego criminal defense and traffic attorney
Areas Served

Defending clients across San Diego County

From downtown San Diego all the way up the coast to Oceanside.

San Diego Chula Vista El Cajon La Mesa Santee National City Escondido San Marcos Vista Carlsbad Encinitas Oceanside
Common Questions

Answers to what people ask first

Do you handle traffic tickets in San Diego?

Yes. We defend traffic tickets and moving violations throughout San Diego County, from downtown San Diego up to Oceanside, and represent clients at DMV hearings to help protect your license and record.

What types of cases do you focus on?

Our focus is misdemeanor defense — DUI/drunk driving, drug offenses, petty theft, insurance fraud, and child endangerment — along with traffic offenses and DMV hearings. We also take select felony matters.

My son or daughter got a ticket or was arrested. Can you help?

Absolutely. We regularly work with parents and younger drivers. Call us and we'll walk you through the situation, the likely consequences, and the options — clearly and without judgment.

How much does it cost to talk to you?

The initial consultation is free and confidential. Lester keeps his rates reasonable and explains his fees upfront, so you'll know exactly what to expect before moving forward. Call or text 619-440-6766 and we'll discuss your case.

How soon should I call after an arrest or ticket?

As soon as possible. DMV hearings in particular have strict deadlines (often just a few days after a DUI arrest), and early action gives us the most options to protect you.

Get a free, confidential case review today

The sooner you reach out, the more we can do. Text or call to speak directly with your attorney about your options.

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Contact

Request your free consultation

Call directly or send a message and we'll get back to you promptly.

Reach the firm

Text (fastest)Text 619-440-6766
Phone619-440-6766
Emaillestermcdonald@aol.com
ConsultationsBy appointment only — serving all of San Diego County
HoursMon–Fri, 8:00am–6:00pm (after-hours calls & texts returned)

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