Licensed for 11 years

State CA

Acquired 2011

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Stefano L. Molea

Criminal defense Attorney at San Diego, CA

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The Best Attorney there is...

Best Fighting Criminal Defense Lawyer

First off I don't know where to begin. Mr. Molea helped me with my case and gave me the knowledge that I needed. He is a very patient and informative lawyer. But underneath he will for you as he did me. The outcome of my case was NOT what I was expecting. He helped give me a second chance at life and helped me from not ruining my future. I did all the instructions he said and he went to bat for me. I was very pleased with my outcome. I highly recommend Mr. Molea if you need criminal defense counsel. Thanks again Mr. Molea.

About Stefano

Learn Stefano’s areas of practice.

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“WE HELP GOOD PEOPLE REGAIN CONTROL OF THEIR FUTURE WHEN CHARGED WITH A CRIME.”® PASSIONATE CRIMINAL DEFENSE REPRESENTATION. ON YOUR SIDE OF THE LAW. CALL (619) 554-0575 NOW TO GET STARTED!

I am proud to be a San Diego criminal defense lawyer. As a partner at The Law Offices of David P. Shapiro, I bring experience in representing diverse clients facing a variety of charges. I've been honored to help waiters, lawyers, construction workers, doctors, CEOs, teachers, veterans and others who have been accused of crimes ranging from theft, fraud, DUIs and drug possession, all the way to vehicular manslaughter, robbery, aggravated mayhem, sex crimes and murder. Regardless of the client or charge, each case is handled with the same thoroughness and passion. I genuinely enjoy every aspect of being a criminal defense lawyer including researching, writing and arguing successful motions, and litigating cases at trial.

I have immersed myself in the San Diego County criminal defense community as a board member of the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association. I also belong to the California Public Defender’s Association, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice and the National College for DUI Defense.

I am honored to have been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. I have been selected as a Top 40 Criminal Defense Lawyer Under 40 in California for 2016 and was voted Best of the Bar for Criminal Defense in 2016 by the San Diego Business Journal. Most of all, I am humbled by the many clients who have written testimonials for my dedication to their cases, attentiveness to their issues, and ability to walk them through the convoluted and sometimes frightening criminal justice system.

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Contact Stefano

Stefano L. Molea

(619) 554-0575 Office

3500 Fifth Avenue, Suite 304

San Diego, CA, 92103

davidpshapirolaw.com/

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5.0 / 5.0

74 customer reviews

5 Star

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4 Star

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1 Star

Posted by anonymous | January 30, 2020

The Best Attorney there is...

Stefano Molea is the best attorney hands down!!! Very dilligently with his work ethics!! He saved my life!!! Would highly recommend this attorney!!

Posted by Andrew | August 7, 2017

Best Fighting Criminal Defense Lawyer

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Posted by Daniel | April 19, 2023

Excellent attorney

From our initial conversation over the phone Stefano was extremely knowledgeable and confirmed I was speaking to the right attorney. He was able to schedule me right away for an in person meeting at his office and laid out the frame work of what to expect with my case in detail. He made sure there was no gray area and we would be in communication would any question, or concern arise. Stefano is prompt, professional, and extremely helpful. I received the best possible outcome thanks to him when so much was on the line for me and my family. No charges were filed, and my case played out exactly how he said it would. Five star review all around, excellent service, very happy client!

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Posted by Katrina | March 1, 2023

The best criminal attorney in San Diego!!!

I can’t even begin to thank Stefano and his team for the work that was done on my case. He was very responsive and got back to me asap every time I emailed/ called him. Stefano made sure I knew all my options and what the outcomes would be. He never once tried to sway me in a certain direction. He was up front and honest the whole way through. We went through a long 18 months of waiting for a courtroom to open up when I decided to take my case to trim, during that time he was diligent and explained everything to me along the way. I seriously could not ask for a better attorney to represent me. My life is now back on track and I can’t thank him enough. If you are in need of a criminal defense lawyer please hire Stefano!!!! He truly is the best and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my future! Thank you again!!!!!!

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Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2022

Highly Reccomend!

Stefano was there for me from beginning to the end of my case and made sure that everything was settled in the best way possible . It felt good to have a caring and knowledgeable Lawyer on my side during a tough time in my life. Stefano was always ahead of anything that was going on and made me feel comfortable throughout my case. 10/10

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Posted by Diana | August 31, 2022

Excellent outcome and service

Stefano was knowledgeable, efficient, and personable. I’m very happy with the outcome of my case. It was beyond my expectations. I highly recommend his professional services.

Posted by anonymous | July 21, 2022

Amazing work

Got me through some very difficult times. He did an amazing job on getting me through a really rough patch in my life. Got the details correct and did excellent work on my case. A+

Posted by anonymous | July 6, 2022

DUI

Stefano and Shaprio Law Office exceeded my expectations! Stefano went above and beyond and helped me and my family tremendously in this time of uncertainty. Thank you so much!

Posted by anonymous | June 29, 2022

5-Star Attorney

Working with Stefano was a much more personal experience than I had ever imagined it would be. Stefano legitimately was interested in me and took a good amount of time during our initial call to get to know myself and my family prior to hearing the details of the case. Clear and prompt communication as well as tenacity when dealing with the prosecution made it truly feel like I had someone on my team that was personally invested in a positive outcome. I would strongly suggest working with Stefano and his team if you ever find yourself in need of legal counsel.

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Posted by Ron | January 21, 2022

You need Stefano and his team on your side!

In my time of need my attorney Stefano really stepped up to the plate for me and my family. Not only did he provide professional and outstanding legal support, but him and his team went above and beyond to do what they could to get the desired outcome for my case. Stefano is a down to earth person, not only was he sympathetic but also empathetic to me and my situation. I was treated like a close friend while he and his team remained completely professional. This was my first experience with hiring an attorney and I am grateful it was with Stefano and the Law Office of David P. Shaprio.

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Posted by anonymous | November 13, 2021

BEST DECISION EVER

I had spent days looking up reviews for different lawyers for my child abuse case. I chose Mr. Molea because of his good reviews and reputation in AVVO. He is extremely knowledgeable and experience in his field. Every time I contacted him because of I was scared and nervous about my case, he was always there to give me a peace of mind and assured me that I was in good hands. I followed his instructions and he did deliver me the outcome I was happy with. I am happy and beyond thankful to Mr. Molea and his team. I would highly recommend him and his company to anyone who needs criminal defense service.

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Posted by anonymous | October 25, 2021

Best lawyer

Stefano is passionate, detail oriented, smart, knowledgeable and aggressive in presentation. The outcome in my case was exactly what I had hoped for. I have worked with a few lawyers and I can say this - Stefano is the BEST. You want him on your side

Posted by anonymous | July 19, 2021

Excellent

He is AMAZING and I truly recommend him and his team! Mr. Molea help resolve a very ugly problem that deprive me from sleeping, focusing, and enjoying my family. He help me carry the weight of my shoulders on to his and did an amazing job. Not to many Lawyers will take the time to get know you and have empathy for you and the situation you in. I thank him be cause I was able to regain my confidence and focus on the most important thing in life.

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Posted by Chris | June 6, 2021

Excellent Trustworthy Attorney

We hired Stefano Molea to represent our adult son who was charged with a DUI accident with the other parties sustaining great bodily injury. At the start, Stefano came up with a detailed plan on how to best represent our son and navigate through the legal challenges. Stefano's legal knowledge, attention to detail, and his extraordinary communication skills, makes him a true expert in the legal field. He is compassionate and helped our son take the right steps towards his sobriety. We got the best possible outcome for our son and we owe it all to Stefano.

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Posted by anonymous | December 15, 2020

Stefano is an amazing lawyer!!

I was extremely worried and stressed out over my case. Stefano eased my worries and ending up getting me a great deal. The DA had me dead to rights but Stefano was able to keep me out of custody. If your thinking of hiring a lawyer for criminal defense Stefano is the man for the job. Thanks Stefano!

Posted by Nancy | October 12, 2020

Beyond Excellent

Stefano represented a family member during a very difficult time. He is clearly an expert in his field. Not only that, he is kind, compassionate, and dedicated to his work and his clients. That was our experience, and we are very grateful for his services.

Posted by Michael | October 5, 2020

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AND WORTH IT

Mr. Molea is not only great at what he does, but he is also one of the best lawyers to find when it comes to helping you through a case. He's confident, smart, and brings a comforting approach for whatever case you are facing. I definitely recommend him for anyone, especially Veterans and Military Members, who is looking for someone to fight for them. Not only will he provide you with great services by walking you step by step through your case, he will provide you with the best approach on help you get through it. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

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Posted by Blake | August 31, 2020

Incredible Criminal Defense Attorney

Stefano and his team did an amazing job on my case. His interpersonal communication skills are top notch, which took a lot of stress off my parent's plate. He was always extremely responsive, with great customer service, and there was never a point where I had any problems getting in contact with he or his team. I was facing 2 felonies and 3 misdemeanors, and ultimately he got he got me a plea deal for only 2 misdemeanors. More importantly, he saved my future from being drastically impacted in a negative way for having felonies on my record. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a defense attorney.

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Posted by anonymous | August 23, 2020

You Will Not Regret It

The day I walked into Stefano's office, I was frustrated and, quite frankly, nervous about the unknowns of my case. He was understanding and responsive to all of my concerns. I trust Stefano; he is not only very knowledgeable and experienced, but passionate about his work. He was able to secure a better outcome for my case than I would have ever expected, all while lifting the heavy weight of the unknowns off of my shoulders. While working with Stefano over the past 7-8 months, my questions were not only answered quickly, but thoroughly. He was easy to talk to and supportive along each step of the way. I am very pleased with the outcome of my case. I learned a lot through Stefano - he sets the bar high for all practicing attorneys. Thank you for everything.

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Posted by Cheynette | August 7, 2020

Excellent lawyer

Our family came to Stefano during an chaotic time and needing legal help. Stefano and his crew were amazing! They walked us step by step through the whole legal process. Communication about what to expect at all hearings and court orders was above and beyond. All of our questions were answered with the upmost respect and we never felt like we were asking a stupid question. Stefano was very professional, always early and very accommodating. He knew exactly how to handle our state case and federal case. We felt very well taken care of, listened to and knew we were in good hands of a very smart and experienced lawyer. He was able to get us the best outcome possible and we are truly grateful for him and his team.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner
The Law Offices Of David P. Shapiro, Aplc
2018 - Present

Associate
The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC
2013 - 2017

Principal
Molea Law
2012 - 2013

Of Counsel
Law Office of David P. Shapiro, APLC
2011 - 2013

Of Counsel
Damiani Law Group
2011 - 2013

View all work experience

Education

Thomas Jefferson School of Law
Juris Doctor- Magna Cum Laude
2011

University of Redlands
Bachelor of Arts- Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa
2008

Legal Cases

Motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence
Case dismissed

Murder
Not Guilty

Motion to to Suppress Granted.
.28 BAC results excluded

View all legal cases

Associations

San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
Board of Directors
2014 - Present

California Public Defenders Association
Attorney Member
2013 - Present

San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
Member
2012 - Present

California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
Member
2012 - Present

American Bar Association
Member
2012 - 2013

San Diego County Bar Association
Member
2011 - 2012

View all associations

Languages Spoken

Italian

English

Honors and Awards

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2020

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2019

Rising Star
SuperLawyers
2018

Special Board of Directors' Recognition
San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
2018

AV Preeminent
Martindale-Hubbell®
2018

Rising Star
SuperLawyers
2017

Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense
The American Society of Legal Advocates
2016

Rising Star
SuperLawyers
2016

Best of the Bar- Criminal Defense
San Diego Business Journal
2016

Clients' Choice Award
Avvo
2015

Top Attorney Nominee
San Diego Daily Transcript
2014

Top Young Attorneys Nominee
San Diego Daily Transcript
2013

Clients' Choice Award
Avvo
2013

Top Lawyers in California
American Lawyer Media
2013

Witkin Award for Academic Excellence- Appellate Advocacy
Witkin Legal Institute
2010

Witkin Award for Academic Excellence- Civil Motions Practice
Witkin Legal Institute
2010

Witkin Award for Academic Excellence-Veterans Legal Clinic
Witkin Legal Institute
2010

View all awards

Publications

Times of San Diego
Opinion: We Should Temper Our Immediate Reaction to News of Alleged Crimes
2020

San Diego Lawyer
Criminal Defense: The Private Practice View
2019

Times of San Diego
Opinion: Media Coverage Can Undermine The Presumption of Innocence
2018

Times of San Diego
Parents Should Talk to Kids About Seriousness of School Shootings
2018

Millennial Magazine
Op-Ed: "Just Because You Did It Doesn't Mean You're Guilty"
2017

State Bar of California
Interacting with Law Enforcement Officers: A Criminal Defense Attorney's Perspective for All Attorneys
2017

Millennial Magazine
Interacting With Law Enforcement Officers in 2016
2016

San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
Featured Member Profile
2014

Molea Law: Criminal Defense
Why Fourth Waivers Should be Found Unconstitutional
N/A

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Monthly Meeting
The Status of Criminal Practice During COVID 19 and the "Rise" of Domestic Violence Arrests
2020

Regional Meeting
Domestic Violence: Criminal and Family Law Aspects
2019

University of San Diego School of Law Paralegal Program
Employment Panel
2019

Bridging the Gap MCLE Conference
Ethical Considerations in Criminal Law Practice
2019

Criminology Course
Fundamental Principles of Criminal Law
2018

Monthly Meeting
Criminal Justice
2018

Monthly Meeting
School Shootings and What Every Parent Needs to Know About Their Kids' Responsible Use of Social Media
2018

CWSL Student-Attorney Networking
Student-Attorney Networking
2014

TJSL 1L Legal Writing
Appellate Argument Judge
2014

Moot Court 1L Competition
Opening Statements and Closing Arguments- Judge
2014

Veterans Village of San Diego
The Effects of Bankruptcy
2010

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (25)

Given (20)

Endorse Stefano

Sam McGovern

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stefano is a great attorney and I would not hesitate to refer any of my clients to him for their criminal defense needs."

Nicole Irmer

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stefano is attentive to his client's matters and strives for the best outcome in the circumstances for them. I have had referred clients to him, and the feedback is that they have been very happy with the referral, saying how good he is at explaining the legal process. I recommend him."

Lenden Webb

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Solid and sharp attorney, knows how to take care of his client's needs. I fully endorse this lawyer and would encourage anyone seeking assistance to retain him."

Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Torri

Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Richard Rosenstein

Unknown Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Molea is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Stefano. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Michael Fischer

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Stefano for several years now and he has become the attorney we refer all our criminal defense cases to."

James Dicks

Criminal defense Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | 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!"

Janet Mertes

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Cyrus Mor

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Friend

"Stefano is a fantastic attorney. He works hard and is very knowledgeable with regards to Criminal Law. I would recommend his services to those in need of a Criminal Defense attorney in San Diego."

Alexander Fuqua

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stefano is an extremely intelligent, well-prepared attorney who thrives on handling challenging cases. Having worked with Stefano, I have personally observed the care and attention to detail he gives to every case and every client. He has an easy-going demeanor which has contributed to the success he has had for his clients; however, he is aggressive and doesn't back down from his position when the circumstances call for it. Stefano has been dedicated to helping those accused of crimes since he was in law school and his experience surpasses that of other young attorneys. I endorse this lawyer."

Pejman Kharrazian

Unknown Attorney | May 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jinny Campbell

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Benjamin Aguilar

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I attended law school with Mr. Molea and he was known and continues to be known for his strong ethics and dedication to the practice of law."

Jeremy Evans

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Stefano for years and he is personable, a strong advocate, and has experience."

Vikram Monder

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stefano is a dedicated practitioner in the area of criminal defense and has a strong team behind him. I recommend this attorney in the Southern California community."

Christopher Beck

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Honest, hardworking and good looking...but enough about me. Stefano is a dedicated hard working attorney to whom I could confidently refer criminal matters. His smart, finite approach to complex legal issues makes him one of a kind and a great benefit to the legal community."

Thomas Baker

General practice Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Attorney Stefano Molea is the epitome of professionalism, dedication, and zealous representation. While working on a simple matter together I was astounded at the amount of work Mr. Molea put forth, even on the most minuscule of issues. If you want a hungry, hard working attorney, then Stefano Molea is who you should be calling. I endorse this lawyer."

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Liann Sabatini

Criminal defense