Marc Steven Applbaum

Marc Steven Applbaum

4.2
Rating: 5.1

Licensed for 23 years

Litigation Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Litigation, Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, Business

2150 West Washington St. Ste 104, San Diego, CA

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2025
See Details

About Marc

Biography

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in California for 23 years

State: California

Acquired: 2002

Not Eligible to Practice Law (Not Entitled)

Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2025

Location

Law Offices Of Marc Applbaum

2150 West Washington St. Ste 104, San Diego, CA, 92110

Kettner Law

2150 West Washington St. Ste 104, San Diego, CA, 92110

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Marc Steven Applbaum's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.2 /5.0

10 Client Reviews

5 star (8)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (2)

Posted by Don | July 30, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Marc, And and his team are awesome.

I h onired Marc. To resolve some mortgage problems that had been going on for years. I spent so much money and time on other attorneys that did nothing for me and my family. The day i met with marc he was very up front about everything and explained what my options where. Less then 4 days la...tter he and his team had resolved my going on 8 year problem with my mortgage company, THIS GUY ROCKS, His price was more then fair and a lot less then i paid my other attorneys. Thank you again, Don

Posted by anonymous | July 7, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Run From This Guy

He is a liar and a cheater. He will not follow through on any promises. If you have been hurt by this man I strongly suggest you go to the state bar and report him as many are going to do.

Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

DON'T BELIEVE A WORD SAID BY HIS PARALEGAL

I was told Marc needed some paralegal support, and I needed some representation for a personal matter of my own. I was told by Bobby, Marc's paralegal, that they would trade me service's. I was worked like a dog night and day for this firm, seven days a week and even on easter, thinking I am rackin...g up hours on my tab, while Bobby was giving me every excuse in the book about why I'm not getting my retainer agreement, nor is he calling to schedule my court date. Finally after two months of the runaround, and I've refered him $25,000 in business, I put my foot down and said no more work was coming until I saw my retainer agreement. That's when the 180 degree flip where I was insulted, name called, ridiculed, and even threatened. At no time did Marc step in to resolve anything. Wondering if just me, I checked with the San Diego court, where I got the number of two plaintiffs charging Marc with professional negligence. I called and got quite an earful about how I was not a unique case. The woman broke down and cried when telling me how Marc threatened her while she was in the middle of leaving an abusive marriage. So if you're a woman especially, I would proceed with caution.

Posted by anonymous | January 30, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Great lawyer and person

I used Mr. Applbaum on a criminal matter I would not care to disclose. I am writing this review to share my satisfaction with him as a person and a lawyer. He was very compassionate and did a terrific job for me. My outcome was far better than I expected.

Posted by richards | November 12, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

thanks marc!

great work marc! We just received our first round of patents! It's time for the international markets now. Please make sure and thank Steve from Procopio as well, worth every penny. Let's change the world, one valuable invention at a time! Cheers!

See All Client Reviews

Marc Steven Applbaum's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Marc
Charles V. Millioen headshot
Charles Millioen

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 18

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Marc Applbaum's background as a prosecutor gives him a unique background for criminal defense, which is extremely valuable for clients facing charges. He is incredibly experienced on DUIs in particular and lights up a room with his great personality."

Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

William Franklin Nimmo headshot
William Nimmo

Juvenile law lawyer | Mar 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Marc is an excellent defense attorney. He has had close to 40 trials while working as a prosecutor for the San Diego City Attorney. This is the great kind of experience that lawyers need, but just don't get these days, unless they work for an agency like the City Attorney. Marc, like his well regarded father, is focusing on juvenile defense. It is nice to see someone so talented working to help young people that get in trouble. If those people can be reached and helped, it insures that they have a chance to make it this tough world. Kudos to you Marc. Im honored to endorse you."

Dod Ghassemkhani headshot
Dod Ghassemkhani

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

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

Business 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!"

Alan Jess Adriance Jr. headshot
Alan Adriance

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have found Mr. Applbaum to be a highly dedicated, intelligent, and thoughtful advocate for his clients. I recommend anyone in need of representation give him a call."

Tate Ryan Lounsbery headshot
Tate Lounsbery

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've seen Marc in the courtroom many times. I've seen first hand how well-prepared he is when discussing his clients' cases with the prosecutors. He knows the law inside and out. Plus, he is well-liked and well-regarded by defense lawyers, prosecutors, and judges."

Thomas Edmond Glynn headshot
Thomas Glynn

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 19

Relationship: Friend

"Replete with an illustrious criminal defense pedigree, Marc is a passionate advocate for his clients. I endorse him as a trusted attorney to whom I would refer anyone in need of his services."

Anna Reese Yum headshot
Anna Yum

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Marc is an outstanding trial attorney! I have personally seen him in court and he is always prepared, on point, and effective. He has an excellent courtroom presence and demeanor. Marc is also very well liked among the judges, prosecutors, and fellow defense attorneys in the community. I would not hesitate to endorse him and recommend his services."

Peter Charles Blair headshot
Peter Blair

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Applbaum has earned tremendous respect in the San Diego legal community as a prosecutor, and now as a defense attorney. I highly endorse Mr. Applbaum as one of the finer, more aggressive, criminal defense attorneys in San Diego."

Peter Michael Liss headshot
Peter Liss

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Marc is a sharp, savvy, experienced lawyer. He understands the issues and focuses on getting the best result for the client. Well respected by all parties in the courtroom."

William Mathew Concidine headshot
William Concidine

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Marc for several years and have always respected his professional approach to his cases. He truly understands the law and the legal system and how to use that knowledge to benefit his clients. I would recommend Marc to someone looking for an attorney."

Brian Mccarthy headshot
Brian Mccarthy

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Marc is an excellent attorney with experience in both prosecution and defense. that experience allows him to view a case from both sides, and allow him to spot the weaknesses in the case. I would not hesititate to have Marc represent my friends or family if they found themselves needing a criminal defense attorney."

Michael Larson Stuart headshot
Michael Stuart

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Applbaum is an excellent attorney. His experiences as both a criminal defense attorney and a prosecutor provide invaluable knowledge and skills that yield the best results for every single client he represents. I would recommend anyone facing criminal charges to hire Attorney Marc Applbaum"

Francis Rowland Pabst headshot
Francis Pabst

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 17

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I've known Marc as an experienced, aggressive and zealous attorney for some time now. I have worked with Marc on both the prosecution and defense side and he really is passionate and professional. I would not hesitate to recommend him for his services."

Michael Anthony Hernandez headshot
Michael Hernandez

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the opportunity to work with Marc Applbaum on many cases when he was a prosecutor. He was always fair, and always willing to consider novel and creative solutions to cases. As a defense attorney Marc is an amazing advocate; his command of the law is superb, his dedication to his clients is apparent, and his presence is court is elegant. I wholeheartedly endorse Marc Applbaum."

James Robert Fox headshot
James Fox

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Marc Applebaum is an outstanding attorney. I have worked with him while he was a prosecutor and now as a defense attorney. He is professional with a very keen ability to communicate from either side of the isle. His ability to focus on the issues and peel away all the extra garbage that comes with criminal cases. His knowledge of the law is impeccable and his ability to argue is unmatched. I offer my highest recommendation of Marc Applbaum and am pleased he is a member of our defense bar."

Alex Ozols headshot
Alex Ozols

Unknown lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have negotiated with Marc when he was a City Attorney and he was always one of the more fair ones out there. If you have a case downtown, there probably isn't anyone in San Diego who will get you a better result. I endorse this lawyer."

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mr. Applbaum for years, seeing his work both as a prosecutor and as a defense attorney. He embodies the three most important qualities for a successful defense attorney: an excellent legal mind, dedication to his clients and he is a skilled and persuasive advocate. I wholeheartedly endorse him."

View All Endorsements
Joseph Charles Crudo headshot
Joseph Crudo

Personal injury lawyer

William Franklin Nimmo headshot
William Nimmo

Criminal defense lawyer

Tate Ryan Lounsbery headshot
Tate Lounsbery

Unknown lawyer

Mary Frances Prevost headshot
Mary Prevost

Criminal defense lawyer

William Mathew Concidine headshot
William Concidine

Criminal defense lawyer

Anna Reese Yum headshot
Anna Yum

Unknown lawyer

Brian Mccarthy headshot
Brian Mccarthy

Criminal defense lawyer

Thomas Edmond Glynn headshot
Thomas Glynn

Real estate lawyer

Peter Charles Blair headshot
Peter Blair

Criminal defense lawyer

Peter Michael Liss headshot
Peter Liss

Unknown lawyer

Alex Ozols headshot
Alex Ozols

Criminal defense lawyer

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

Unknown lawyer

Marc Bruce Geller headshot
Marc Geller

Unknown lawyer

Michael Jon Fremont headshot
Michael Fremont

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Anthony Hernandez headshot
Michael Hernandez

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark Lawrence Deniz headshot
Mark Deniz

Unknown lawyer

Francis Rowland Pabst headshot
Francis Pabst

Criminal defense lawyer

Patrick M Griffin headshot
Patrick Griffin

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher Paul Sohovich headshot
Christopher Sohovich

DUI and DWI lawyer

Peter A. Mesich headshot
Peter Mesich

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  5.1 (Average)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2025.

Discipline with Actual Suspension issued in CA, 2025

updated on 09/19/2025

This sanction means the attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. The attorney typically returns to practicing law when the suspension expires.

Discipline with Actual Suspension issued in CA, 2020

updated on 09/10/2021

This sanction means the attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. The attorney typically returns to practicing law when the suspension expires.

Work Experience

2013 - Present

Advisor-Counselor, Law Offices of Marc Applbaum, APLC

2008 - 2013

Associate, The Law Offices Of G. Cole Casey

2006 - 2010

Partner, Applbaum & Zouvas, LLP

2004 - 2013

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, City Attorney San Diego

Associations

2013 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Attorney Member

Sample of Legal Cases

People v Saxon

Client pleads to drunk in public.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2000

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1995

University of Southern California

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2015

San Diego State University

Transition from Jail to Community

2013

University of San Diego Law School

Tips for aspiring attorneys

Languages

English

Spanish

French

Activity

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
    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2025
    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