L. Marcel Stewart

PRO

L. Marcel Stewart

also known as Stewart Law Group

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 23 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect, Medical Malpractice

600 W. Broadway, Suite 700, San Diego, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

About L. Marcel

Biography

Former federal prosecutor has the skill, experience & aggressiveness you need! Call (619) 702-4123!

You need a skillful advocate to give your matter the time and effort required. Freedom is worth it.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

As a defense attorney and former federal prosecutor, Attorney Stewart's experience in federal and state criminal law is very extensive, including narcotics, murder, sex crimes, robbery, smuggling and various white collar offenses.

24 years | 500 cases

50%
Medical Malpractice 25%

20 years | 20 cases

25%
Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect 25%

20 years | 23 cases

25%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Contingency

33%-45%


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2024 2023 2022
...
+ 2

Licenses

Licensed in California for 18 years

State: California

Acquired: 2007

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Colorado for 21 years

State: Colorado

Acquired: 2004

Withdrawn

No misconduct found

Licensed in District of Columbia for 23 years

State: District of Columbia

Acquired: 2002

Resigned

No misconduct found

Location

Stewart Law Group

600 W. Broadway, Suite 700, San Diego, CA, 92101

stewartlawgroup.info

L. Marcel Stewart's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

62 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 62 reviews

Posted by anonymous | January 22, 2026 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Call Marcel Stewart , If you want to Mega Win!

Marcel is the lawyer you go to if you want win, encompassing strategic competence, and integrity while going the extra mile for you! He will actually read your documents, not wing it on your call. He is the most stellar negotiator I have ever encountered, getting the other side to go from $275,000 to... a settlement of $32,000; then getting a third party to contribute even more, further lowering our cost in a difficult case. We hired him again in a bank fraud case that he turned around in our favor, settling the matter in record time effectively dealing with typically slow moving bank legal departments. You won’t have to beg him to call you back or keep you informed on your proceedings, he is a master at client contact and communication. No run around here. If he can’t help you, he will let you know, and possibly refer you to other legal counsel in his vast network. Contact Marcel Stewart if you want peace of mind while he skillfully works your win.He is the best. We are honored to be his client.

Posted by Angelo | January 21, 2026 | Hired Attorney

If you want the best, look no further.

He has kept me informed every step of the way, and has given the best possible counseling and guidance. We look forward to continuing forward with him in our corner.

Posted by Karina tovar | January 21, 2026 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

The best attorney

The legal representation I received was nothing short of exceptional, and I am profoundly grateful for the outcome. Facing potential jail time was an incredibly daunting prospect, but my attorney's skill and dedication made all the difference. From our first meeting, they approached my case with a cl...ear understanding of the complexities involved and a strategic plan. Their ability to meticulously analyze every detail of my situation and identify the most effective defense was truly impressive. Throughout the entire process, my attorney maintained open and consistent communication, explaining legal jargon in a way that was easy to understand. This transparency was crucial in alleviating my anxiety and ensuring I felt informed and supported. They advocated fiercely on my behalf, demonstrating a deep knowledge of the law and a persuasive courtroom presence. Their tireless efforts to present my case in the best possible light were evident in every interaction. Ultimately, the outstanding job performed by my attorney resulted in a far more favorable outcome than I had dared to hope for. Their expertise and commitment were instrumental in keeping me out of jail, a result for which I will always be indebted. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of expert legal representation.

Posted by Angelique | January 21, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Outstanding

Mr. Stewart and his law firm are the pinnacle of professionalism. He handled my case with understanding and compassion, maintaining excellent communication throughout the entire process. Truly, Mr. Stewart is exceptional.

Posted by Brittaney | November 20, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Worked diligently

Attorney Stewart was always very professional and personable with my brothers case. He sought out several family members and explained the severity of the case as well. In the end due to his work my brother was freed after only a few months. He was potentially facing 20 years. Thank you again

See All Client Reviews

L. Marcel Stewart's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse L. Marcel
John David Kirby headshot
John Kirby

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Mr. Stewart as a colleague for many years. He is an excellent litigator. I have seen him in court on numerous occasions and also co-chaired a case with him. I recommend him at the highest level."

Stacie Lynn Patterson headshot
Stacie Patterson

Unknown lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Marcel Stewart for a several years and am familiar with the high quality of his work. I highly recommend him for any of your Criminal Defense, Civil Rights, or Personal Injury needs. He is a diligent and highly skilled lawyer, is highly respected in the legal community, and will guide you competently throughout your case. I would not hesitate to recommend him to a friend or family member needing legal representation."

Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Stewart is an exceptional criminal defense attorney whose reputation speaks for itself. Recommended with complete confidence."

Laura Frances Marran headshot
Laura Marran

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Marcel and I were co counsel in a federal importation of methamphetamine trial. He won each of his pretrial motions which kept out damaging evidence and effectively set the stage for our client's defense. The jurors loved him. He is well respected by judges and prosecutors alike."

Dante Terrell Pride headshot
Dante Pride

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Great lawyer. Tenacious. You'd be lucky to have him on your side."

Sammer Andrew Zakhour headshot
Sammer Zakhour

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Awesome attorney that works hard for his clients and gets great results. I endorse Mr. Stewart without reservation."

Ryan James Tegnelia headshot
Ryan Tegnelia

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mr. Stewart for many years. During that time I have known him to be an extremely gifted litigator who works tirelessly for his clients. I would recommend Mr. Stewart to anyone charged with a crime."

Francisco Jose Sanchez Jr headshot
Francisco Sanchez

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Marcel is an excellent attorney. I first worked against his when he was a federal prosecutor and I found him to be fair minded, just and a true professional. When he opened his practice he brought the same degree of integrity and work ethic with him. I would be proud to have him as a co-counsel in a case again."

Alex Ozols headshot
Alex Ozols

Unknown lawyer | Mar 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Stewart is not only a master of his craft, he is a great person as well. As a former federal prosecutor he is someone that knows the courtroom inside and out. I fully recommend this attorney."

View All Endorsements
John David Kirby headshot
John Kirby

Unknown lawyer

Laura Frances Marran headshot
Laura Marran

Criminal defense lawyer

Sammer Andrew Zakhour headshot
Sammer Zakhour

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2015

Client's Choice, Avvo

2007

Distinguished Service Award, Earl B. Gilliam Bar Association

2000

High Grade Honors Federal Taxation, Howard University School of Law

1999

Law Journal, Howard University School of Law

1995

Rose Bowl, NCAA College Football

Work Experience

2008 - Present

Principal, Law Office of L. Marcel Stewart

2005 - 2008

Assistant U.S. Attorney, United States Attorney's Office San Diego

2004 - 2005

Associate, Davis Graham & Stubbs

2003 - 2004

Trial Attorney, United States Deparment Of Justice

2001 - 2003

Associate, Wiley Rein & Fielding

2000 - 2000

Summer Associate, Wiley Rein & Fielding

2000 - 2001

Legal Writing Fellow, Howard University School Of Law

2000 - 2000

Summer Associate, Fullbright & Jaworski

1999 - 1999

Summer Associate, Freddie Mac

Associations

2008 - Present

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Member

2017 - 2019

Earl B. Gilliam Bar Association

President

2017 - 2020

California Association of Black Lawyers

Board Member

2008 - 2011

California Association of Black Lawyers

Board Member

Sample of Legal Cases

U.S. v. Delgado

Case Dismissed

Franco-Ruiz v. Kaiser Permanente

Settled

United States v. Arizaga

Case dismissed.

U.S. v. Cerda-Gonzalez

Case Dismissed

United States v. Blanca Garcia-Santillan, et al.

Not Guilty Jury Verdict

Golston v. Golston

Domestic Violence Protective Order Denied

U.S. v. Carina Armienta

Case dismissed.

People of the State of California v. Polk

Case dismissed.

U.S. v. Chacon et al ("Defendant Extradited for Killing a U.S. Federal Officer")

Plea bargain that avoided the death penalty or life in prison.

King v. San Diego Police Department

Settlement

The People v. King

Acquittal by jury

Sims v. Stanton

Created 9th Circuit law until reversed by the United States Supreme Court

U.S. v. Philip Morris, et al ("The Tobacco Litigation Case")

U.S. v. Aaron Hyman ("The Chubby Bank Robber")

In re Extradition of Cruz Dominguez

Extradition and charges dismissed.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2001

Howard University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1997

University of California - Davis

BA - Bachelor of Arts

N/A

University of Oregon

Speaking Engagements

2014

Bayview Town Hall Meeting

Civil Rights

2013

Practicioner Series

Solo Practice

2011

Panel Discussion

Practice of Law

2008

Neighborhood Law School

Criminal Law

2007

Town Hall Meeting

Citizens and Police Contact

Publications

2002

Howard University School of Law Journal Conjoined Twins: The Legality of Sacrifice Surgery

2002

Howard Law Journal Writer

2002

Mealey’s Insurance Reports Conference Are Reinsurers Liable For Extra-Contractual Obligation?

Languages

English

Spanish

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution