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Deanna Lynn Lopas
also known as San Diego County Attorney
About Deanna
Biography
As a criminal defense practitioner for the last 15 years, I have represented clients in all areas of criminal law, from the most complex cases involving homicide, sexual misconduct, and 3 strikes to common drug possession, driving under the influence, and traffic offenses. Prior to establishing LOPAS LAW, I spent a decade as a public defender, in California's Capitol city of Sacramento as well as El Dorado County, during which time I represented clients in high-stakes, high-profile litigation and defended thousands of adults and juveniles facing prosecution. In my career, I have successfully litigated 4th Amendment search and seizure violations, Miranda violations, Writs of Habeas Corpus, bail reductions, and Jury Trials in a multitude of misdemeanor and felony cases to verdict.
My representation of each client is focused solely on achieving the best outcome for that particular client. I work diligently and aggressively to achieve each clients unique and tailored goals. I have negotiated thousands of pre-trial litigation resolutions and have proven to be a zealous, compassionate, and effective advocate in Preliminary hearing, Court Trial, Jury Trial, and post-conviction litigation.
I have extensive experience representing juveniles accused of all manner of delinquency. As a juvenile law practitioner I have established myself as a tireless advocate for hundreds of youth accused of the most basic school misconduct to serious crimes such as rape and murder. During my time in El Dorado County, I was recognized for "changing the face of Juvenile Justice" through tireless advocacy, successful motion and trial practice, and reduction of the incarcerated youth population in the County by half. I enjoy trial practice, but understand that not every case or client is best served through court adjudication or verdicts. I work closely with my clients to reach efficient and positive resolutions and believe in the fragility and growth potential of every youth.
Practice Areas
6
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
30%
20 years | 2,000 cases
Juvenile Law
30%
10 years | 300 cases
DUI and DWI
20%
20 years | 500 cases
Expungement
10%
17 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
$ 300-300 per hour
Retainer
Sometimes
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in California for 18 years
State: California
Acquired: 2007
No misconduct found
Location
LOPAS LAW
450 South Melrose Drive, Vista, CA, 92081
LOPAS LAW
333 S. Juniper Street, Suite 110, Escondido, CA, 92025
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Deanna Lynn Lopas's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
3 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (3)
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Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 reviews | General Knowledge
Posted by anonymous | May 06, 2019 | Sex Crime
Spot on advice
I recently consulted Deanna Lopas because an underage family member was arrested on sex crime charges. I was in a panic and did not know which way to turn. Deanna was very calming and told me exactly what to expect at the first couple court hearings. Deanna was absolutely correct. Thanks to Deann...
Posted by Kari | May 04, 2019 | DUI & DWI
She knows her stuff!
She answered my question, we went to court the next morning and everything was correct, + his licence was taken for a year. It gave me piece of mind to at least know what I was walking into. She knows what she is talking about. Quick responder on messages as well.
Deanna Lynn Lopas's Lawyer Endorsements
"I had the opportunity to work with Deanna for several years at during our time with the Sacramento County Public Defender. She is a fantastic trial attorney. Subsequently I have observed Deanna in court handling a variety of matters from private criminal cases to very specialized juvenile dependency cases. I have always known Deanna to be diligent, thoughtful and willing to go the extra mile to ensure her clients receive the best representation possible. I endorse this attorney."
"Deanna Lopas is one of the most intelligent, compassionate and well-spoken attorneys I have ever had the privilege to work with. Her commitment to her clients is unwavering. Her ability to communicate complex legal issues to a jury is inspiring. She is always well-prepared for her cases, regardless of the stage in litigation or the seriousness of the offenses. She understands that mistakes do not have to define a person for a lifetime. She treats each of her clients with the respect and empathy they deserve during very trying times in their lives. Deanna is the real deal and I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a great defense attorney."
"I worked with Deanna several years ago. I personally witnessed her advocacy on behalf of her clients. She works hard and cares."
"Ms. Lopas is a dedicated, talented attorney who will work diligently on your case. I endorse her without hesitation."
"I endorse this lawyer. Deanna is an experienced litigator and compassionate person. She has extensive experience in all areas of criminal law, including serious and violent adult and juvenile cases. She has taken many cases to trial, but has also achieved numerous victories for clients without a courtroom. Any client would do well to hire her."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Deanna for years and have always considered her to be a very knowledgeable and professional lawyer."
"Deanna and I were fellow public defenders for several years. I have always found her to be diligent, compassionate, hard-working, and professional in dealing with all types of criminal cases."
"Deanna is my go to lawyer when I have any questions about juvenile law. She has a passion and knowledge of the subject unlike any other lawyer I know. San Diego's criminal law community is lucky to have her."
"Deanna is a dedicated, experienced and compassionate attorney. She is very knowledgeable with nuanced areas of juvenile law including education rights, and truly cares about her clients and how their cases affect their lives. She does not hesitate to litigate difficult issues and she provides excellent representation. She is very professional and good at building relationships with other people in the justice system to effectively advocate for her clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Deanna in a high volume criminal practice where she was the "go to" person for me. If she did not have the answer to a question, she would find it. She works tirelessly on behalf of her clients to obtain the best result possible. Whether your matter is criminal or juvenile, there would not be an attorney who would work harder on your behalf than Deanna Lopas."
"Deanna is an exceptionally knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate attorney. She is very respected among fellow defenders, opposing counsel, and judges. She works hard for every client and has achieved excellent results in some of the most difficult cases. She has my highest recommendation."
"Deanna is an outstanding attorney! We are former coworkers. I know her to be a passionate and aggressive advocate for her clients. Knowledgeable and experienced in multiple areas related to criminal, juvenile, and mental health law. One of the best."
"I have known and worked alongside Deanna for over a decade. She is incredibly dedicated to her clients and their defense. She is a highly effective advocate and will go the extra mile to make sure her clients get the best representation possible. I give her my highest recommendation."
"I endorse this lawyer. She is gifted in criminal and juvenile practice. Her husband is also a superior attorney in the same fields. Southern CA is fortunate to have them!"
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John Casey
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Experience
Honors
2022
Best DUI Lawyer in Escondido, Expertise
2019
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers
2019
Justia Lawyer Top Rating, Justia Lawyer
2016
AB 703 Certification, Pacific Juvenile Defender Center
2003
Cum laude Academic Distinction, CSU, Sacramento
2003
Dean's Honor List, CSU, Sacramento
2002
Dean's Honor List, CSU, Sacramento
Work Experience
2019 - Present
Managing Partner, LOPAS LAW
2019 - Present
Appellate Panel Attorney, Appellate Defenders, Inc.
2019 - Present
Appellate Panel Attorney, Central California Appellate Project
2015 - 2018
Deputy Public Defender, El Dorado County Public Defender
2007 - 2015
Assistant Public Defender, Sacramento County Public Defender
Associations
2022 - Present
CPDAMember
2022 - Present
Parent Teacher AssociationExecutive Board Member
2020 - Present
Lawyer LegionMember
2020 - Present
California Appellate Defense CounselMember
2019 - Present
United States District Court for the Southern District of CaliforniaMember
2019 - Present
California Lawyers AssociationMember
2016 - Present
Pacific Juvenile Defender CenterMember
2007 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaMember
2019 - 2020
Parent Teacher AssociationPrograms Chair
2017 - 2018
El Dorado County Bar AssociationMember
Sample of Legal Cases
In re J.C.- 273.5 felony
654.2 (6 months informal probation) after contested hearing
In re S.H. 211- Robbery
Negotiated down to 487 (grand theft) with 594 dismissed, eliminating strike, 707(b) offense
In re J.C.
Dismissed and record sealed
In re N.O.- Sex Offense
Deferred Entry of Judgement; petition dismissed after 1 year of probation and record ordered sealed
J. Ambler- Vehicular Manslaughter
Hung Jury; Manslaughter charge dismissed, no jail time and no probation
Education
2006
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
JD - Juris Doctor
2003
California State University, Sacramento
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2019
Law and Social Media
Social Media, Kids, and the Law
Publications
2019
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
Plead guilty to felony 273.5 + gbi, whats next and what sentence am i looking at? can i get probation what are my options?
30 Jul 2019
Q&A
Can a Felony charge HS11370.1 (A) be reduced to a Misdemeanor?
05 May 2019
Q&A
What is mvars and can I fight my speeding ticket. ?
24 Apr 2019