Peter A. Mesich

Peter A. Mesich

also known as Pete Mesich

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 23 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Civil Rights, Criminal Defense

525 B Street, Suite 1500, San Diego, CA

About Peter

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 65%

My background as a former prosecutor (DUI top prosecutor) gives me a strategic and tactical advantage over the persecution. I never lost a DUI trial as a prosecutor.. I was given the toughest cases, and never lost. Now, I travel the country to meet with other elite DUI defense attorneys to remain on the forefront of scientific, forensic and litigation trial techniques to always stay in front.

19 years | 1,000 cases

65%
Civil Rights 20%

My civil rights practice is based on victim rights, or Mary's Law in California. As a former prosecutor, I explain the criminal process to victims with empathy and care. I act as a liaison between the victims, their family and loved ones, and the prosecution. I know the common mistakes prosecutors make- sometimes due to negligence, or due to sheer volume of cases.

25 cases

20%
Criminal Defense 15%

My criminal defense practice has spanned from federal white collar crimes to felony DUIs. As a former prosecutor, I know what the opposing side will do.

19 years | 500 cases

15%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in California for 23 years

State: California

Acquired: 2002

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The Law Offices of Peter A. Mesich, Esq.

525 B Street, Suite 1500, San Diego, CA, 92101

The Law Offices of Peter A. Mesich, Esq.

Del Mar/Solana Beach Office, 445 Marine View Avenue, Del Mar, CA, 92014

Mission Valley Office

7676 Hazard Center Drive, Fifth Floor, San Diego, CA, 92108

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Peter A. Mesich's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

26 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (26) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 16 - 20 of 26 reviews

Posted by Eric | May 01, 2013 | DUI & DWI

Peace of mind!

I was referred to Peter through a friend when I was arrested for suspicion of DUI. I'm 40 years old and, aside from speeding tickets, have never had a problem with the law, so the event was understandably upsetting. Peter was a safe harbor in that storm. He was compassionate and professional, easing ...my fears while not promising things that he could not deliver. He was thorough with regards to the details of my case, and was available when I needed to talk with him about it even if I just needed to be talked down from nightmarish imaginings. I was very pleased with the entire process, including the conclusion. In my case, the DUI was dropped to a Wet/Reckless due to the circumstances of my arrest and my low BAC. From the beginning he believed that that was the outcome he could achieve, and while offering that there were possibilities for some better resolutions, he was very clear that that was probably what was going to happen due to the fact that I was pulled over for an issue with my car, not because of my driving, and when they tested my BAC it was very close, but still over, the legal limit. He also was forthright in preparing me for the possibility, however slim, that a full DUI might still be a possibility, and provided me with all the information I might need should that come to pass. Further, when there were some unforeseen complications after the original case due to my schedule and not being able to make it to some of the court prescribed "activities" by the dates set down, he once again took up my cause with the same zeal, and was, again, calming and informative. This is no "fast food" client/lawyer relationship. When I got arrested, I spoke with many of my friends who had been through the process to determine what I should do, many had not obtained legal assistance, and the ones that had had been underwhelmed by their representation to the point that they regretted not having simply gone before the court with the Public Defender, and certainly didn't consider their lawyers to be people they could call on no matter what might occur in the future. That was not my experience. Peter has been there for me with a consistently high level of professionalism, availability, and knowledge even beyond the conclusion of the original case. In terms of payment, his rate was very reasonable and he took into account my particular financial situation and was flexible with regards to a payment plan that would be satisfactory for both of us. Of the experience I would say that not only was working with Peter "painless", but in fact he relieved much of the mental and emotional pain that came during this entire process. I would absolutely recommend Peter Mesich to anyone finding themselves with a possible DUI hanging over them, and, in fact, already have referred friends to him with almost the exact wording of this review as my recommendation!

Posted by Cortney | March 31, 2013 | DUI & DWI

miracle worker

Peter was amazing. Last summer I made a horrible decision to drive after drinking too much and was facing DUI charges that could have ended my career. A friend recommended Peter. He was kind, compassionate, non judgemental, very easy to talk to, and easy to get a hold of. He’s also driven and know...s the system; He did a lot of research, was knowledgeable about the how the system works and was able to negotiate my case down to a reckless driving charge and an infraction. He worked a miracle, saved my career, and was awesome to work with! A potentially devistating life altering decision has become a lesson learned and I'm so thankful.

Posted by Chris | February 24, 2013 | Criminal Defense

Call Peter Mesich First!!!

I am SOOOO thankful I found Peter to represent me (and basically my family) in my case. I STRONGLY RECCOMMEND Peter Mesich to anyone needing a Defense Attorney and I recommend him every chance I get!! I actually spoke to Peter the first time I called, and every time after that. He was honest, stra...ightforward, took time to listen and understand my case initially, and gave me an honest assessment. I trusted him right away. I'm sure that without Peter, my case would have turned out drastically different, and for the worst. He has a complete knowledge of the law and how it applies in each unique case, he knows the theory and practice of the law from both the Prosecution and the Defense side, and was totally committed to me and my family!! Before you hire anyone else, I strongly urge you to call Peter and just talk to him first!!! You wont regret it... and you have a lot to lose!!!

Posted by Gabriel | September 09, 2012 | DUI & DWI

Profesional

Mr. Mesich is a very hardworking fellow and also aims at achieving the maximum possible efficiency and benefits for his clients He is a person who puts in, his knowledge, whole and soul into his practice. Mr. Mesich through his knowledge and expertise, handle my case driven by his humanitarian ...characteristics as well as optimum professionalism, guiding me through every step of the process, lowering a DUI with a prior into a wet reckless DUI. During this time I have found Mr. Mesich to be a kind and trustworthy person. I have trusted him with all the details of my case, Mr. Mesich is an excellent lawyer and will deliver a performance exceeding expectations. I feel that you would be lucky to have him take your case in your legal situations.

Posted by Michael | August 12, 2012 | Criminal Defense

Best Choice

I am very thankful for the results Peter Mesich got for my 18 year old granddaughter's DUI case. He was able to lower the B.A.C. level, avoid property hit and run charges and quickly resolve the case to all the best possible outcomes. Faced with the diffuculty of choosing the best attorney, my ...granddaughter and her mom opted to interview four attorneys. She choose Peter because he was able to communicate with her and gave her confidence. While I did attend in the initial "meetings" with each of the four attorneys the final choice up to my granddaughter. All I can say is my choice was Peter from the get go, and I was happy to see my granddaugher independently arrive at the same conclusion. Peter's follow up, communication, advise and instructions as to what we needed to present the case were impeccable. He also has stayed in touch with my granddaughter after the court resolution to assure she completes the required course, dmv and legal follow through. I would happily recommend him to anyone facing the tough choice of picking the right DUI attorney. His retainer fee covered everything, it was reasonable considering it was way less than the top fee attorneys we did not select.

See All Client Reviews

Peter A. Mesich's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Peter
Meghan O'Brien Taylor headshot
Meghan Taylor

Criminal defense lawyer | May 25

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Mesich is a hard working attorney who is constantly looking for opportunities to learn and grow. He is committed to his clients and I would recommend him to anyone accused of crime."

Eric Paul Ganci headshot
Eric Ganci

Unknown lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Peter used to work for the prosecution and has great experience as a trial attorney. He is very, very well-versed in how the system works and truly understands how to approach, prepare, and represent each case. Definitely a guy you want on your side. And to boot, he’s great with responding to emails and calls—something most lawyers push to the side. Within minutes, you’ll understand Peter knows his material and cares about his clients."

Crystal Anne Broussard headshot
Crystal Broussard

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"He is committed to his clients and I would recommend him to anyone accused of crime in San Diego County."

Thomas Victor Wallin headshot
Thomas Wallin

Criminal defense lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Peter knows the law and the courts in San Diego. It's great having a lawyer that you can call and get help on cases."

David Carl Beyersdorf headshot
David Beyersdorf

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Charles Lee Reese V headshot
Charles Reese

Unknown lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jesus L Zuniga headshot
Jesus Zuniga

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Harry Mervin Reynolds headshot
Harry Reynolds

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Mesich is exceptionally talented and experienced in various types of criminal cases with his major emphasis on DUI/DWI. He was formerly a Prosecutor in the City of San Diego and is regarded highly by his associates."

Theresa Suzanne Hofmeister headshot
Theresa Hofmeister

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Peter cares about his clients and attends legal trainings to be able to stay on top of changes in the law."

James Nelson Dicks headshot
James Dicks

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"This attorney works very hard for the client and keeps up with the law by attending legal seminars to assist them in this regard. I endorse this attorney."

Michael Shemtoub headshot
Michael Shemtoub

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Your resume speaks for itself and I consider you a valuable member of the attorney community. I would recommend you to anyone and everyone who needs your services. I whole heartedly endorse this lawyer!"

Mark Lawrence Deniz headshot
Mark Deniz

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse attorney Peter Mesich. Peter is a true advocate for his clients. He is calm, collected, and always prepared. I had the advantage of seeing him from several different vantage points. I had the pleasure of working with him while we are prosecutors. He was in my office bouncing off the cases. He would research the law until he became almost an expert with it. I later worked with him while he was defense and I was a prosecution pre trial negotiator. Peter came in on a pre trial case. When other attorneys come in and make a "pitch", Peter came in with a presentation....complete with photos, relevant caselaw, and affidavits. Needless to say his client got the proper resolution (I cannot remember whether it was a dismissal or infraction). Finally, I have dealt with him as we are now both defense. His understanding of case law is impressive. His litigation skills again is calm yet with purpose. His clients will be taken care of."

Marc Steven Applbaum headshot
Marc Applbaum

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Peter for two years and routinely negotiated cases with him while I was a prosecutor. He is a professional that advocates strongly for his clients. His case law knowledge comes through with arguments that support his position. A strong lawyer."

Christopher Paul Sohovich headshot
Christopher Sohovich

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Peter is the exact type of lawyer I would want if I were a client, honest, tenacious, knowledgeable and dedicated. He is always striving to better himself and thus, his clients."

Aaron Todd Hicks headshot
Aaron Hicks

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Peter is a former prosecutor in San Diego and is well respected in all of the courts. He is an outstanding attorney and goes the extra mile for his clients. Definitely recommended."

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

Unknown lawyer | Mar 23

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Mesich for several years now and also had the challenge of facing him court in trial. He was a talented litigator as a prosecutor. He also was skilled in negotiating a anaylyzing cases as well. His experience as a prosecutor gives him a unique attribute now as a defense attorney."

Mark K Rosenfeld headshot
Mark Rosenfeld

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Peter is one of the best DUI defense attorneys in San Diego. He has an excellent reputation and gets great results for his clients. I am happy to recommend Peter for any DUI case in San Diego."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Peter. He is an excellent trial lawyer with a reputation for aggressively defending his clients."

Hieu N Vu headshot
Hieu Vu

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I worked with Peter at the Standard Field Sobriety workshop. He knows his stuff. He is familiar with how police officers are trained. Peter will see the mistakes the officers make and use this to your advantage. I am very proud to know Peter. Peter is also an instructor now and is can teach this class to law enforcement as well."

Craig Michael Sturm headshot
Craig Sturm

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Mesich at the NHTSA Instructor Course this spring, in Irvine Ca. Any attorney who can complete AND pass the 4 day NHTSA Instructor Course for Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and DUI Enforcement, is at the very top of his or her profession. Being a qualified instructor on DUI enforcement and standardized field sobriety tests give Mr. Mesich the unique ability to prove to judges, prosecutors and jurors that his client is not under the influence, and therefore not guilty of the charged crime. I would unequivocally hire Mr. Mesich if I was charged with a crime in San Diego."

View All Endorsements
Jesus L Zuniga headshot
Jesus Zuniga

Criminal defense lawyer

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Unknown lawyer

Harry Mervin Reynolds headshot
Harry Reynolds

DUI and DWI lawyer

Mark Lawrence Deniz headshot
Mark Deniz

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher Paul Sohovich headshot
Christopher Sohovich

DUI and DWI lawyer

Aaron Todd Hicks headshot
Aaron Hicks

Criminal defense lawyer

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

DUI and DWI lawyer

Mark K Rosenfeld headshot
Mark Rosenfeld

DUI and DWI lawyer

Hieu N Vu headshot
Hieu Vu

DUI and DWI lawyer

Eric Paul Ganci headshot
Eric Ganci

DUI and DWI lawyer

Stephen R. Brodsky headshot
Stephen Brodsky

DUI and DWI lawyer

Craig Michael Sturm headshot
Craig Sturm

DUI and DWI lawyer

Peter Francis Iocona headshot
Peter Iocona

DUI and DWI lawyer

Meghan O'Brien Taylor headshot
Meghan Taylor

DUI and DWI lawyer

Joseph C Rome headshot
Joseph Rome

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael G Romano headshot
Michael Romano

DUI and DWI lawyer

Greggory M Marootian headshot
Greggory Marootian

DUI and DWI lawyer

Manuel Jess Barba headshot
Manuel Barba

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2015

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2012

Instructor, Standardized FST Administration, La Pier per National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration and International Association of Chiefs of Police

2011

Qualified Standardized FST Administration, LaPier per National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration and International Association of Chiefs of Police

2011

Instructor Qualified Standardized FST, LaPier per National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration and International Association of Chiefs of Police

2005

Public Service Award, County of San Diego

1993

Honoree, Who's Who in American Colleges and Universties

1992

Most Improved, Roger Williams University- NCAA Div. III Intercollegiate Wrestling

Work Experience

2010 - Present

Owner, The Law Office of Peter A. Mesich, Esq.

2007 - 2010

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, City of San Diego, Criminal Division

2006 - 2007

Deputy General Counsel, City of San Diego

2005 - 2006

Legal Land Use Planner, County of San Diego

2004 - 2005

Litigation Associate, Naumann & Levine

2003 - 2004

Associate, Briggs Law Corporation

2002 - 2003

Principal, Peter Mesich, Sole Practitioner

Associations

2015 - Present

American Constitution Society for Law and Policy (San Diego chapter)

Board of Directors

2015 - Present

Public Interest Advocacy Clinic

Board of Directors

2011 - Present

California DUI Lawyers Association

Member

2011 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2011 - Present

California Public Defenders Association

Member

2011 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2011 - Present

San Diego Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2002 - Present

State Bar of California

Member

2002 - Present

San Diego County Bar Association

Member

1992 - 1993

TEP Public Service Group

President

1991 - 1992

Harvard United Nations

President

Sample of Legal Cases

High BAC Marine

Offer: wet reckless with dry reckless conditions

High BAC (.22) with Two Priors

No jail time, priors dropped, 10 PWS, standard 1st DUI sentence

Solo Accident

Standard DUI, no PWS

High BAC (.32) accident with Prior

DUI, priors dismissed, no jail, 5 PWS (30 day exposure)

DUI and resisting arrest

DUI (standard sentence), Evasion (no resisting arrest)

DUI (with prior), Hit and Run, on DUI Probation

All charges dismissed

DUI with Prior, .15 BAC

No custody, no public work service

.11 DUI with prior stopped at sobriety checkpoint

No prior, wet reckless reduction, no custody

Reckless Driving, Exhibition of Speed

Zero point Vehicle Code violation (infraction) upon completing 16 hours of volunteer work service

Contributing to the delinquency of a minor (2 counts)

1 year probation minor misdemeanor (making noise) case dismissed after 1 year probation. The daughter now lives with loving grandparents in the midwest.

High BAC, accident in parking lot

No public work service, no restitution, client allowed to attend college

DUI (drugs) with minor allegation, child endangerment

Wet reckless reduction (no allegations), all other charges dropped

See More Legal Cases

Education

2001

Vermont Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

1998

Vermont Law School

MA - Masters

1996

The George Washington University

MA - Masters

1993

Roger Williams University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2016

City Heights Law Day Expungements

2012

Standardized Field Sobriety Test Administration per NHTSA Instructor, Legal Environment, Standardized FSTs

1990

New Hampshire Municipal Law Lecture Series Innovative Land Use Techniques

Publications

2001

Vermont Law School Forum The Sybilline Pages

2000

Vermont Law School Forum What's Behind "Take Back Vermont"

1990

New Hampshire Municipal Law Lecture Series Innovative Land Use Techniques

Languages

English

Activity

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