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Jay S. Finnecy
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Jay S. Finnecy
Attorney at Law, Jay S. Finnecy
Melrose Law Center
380 S. Melrose Drive
Suite 363
Vista, CA 92081
Phone: (760) 631-5040 | Fax: (760) 631-1098
http://www.jfinnecy.com
San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney Gets Great Results!
Legal Topic
Criminal Defense
Preferred New Clients
I represent regular people from all walks of life who find themselves in trouble with the law. I routinely handle cases involving allegations of DUI or "Drunk Driving," Domestic Violence, drug possession and/or sales, burglary, robbery, embezzlement, petty theft, resisting arrest, assault with a deadly weapon, probation violations, vandalism and murder. I can also help you "clear" your record after your case is concluded.
Sub-Categories
Criminal Defense
- Aiding, Abetting, Accessory, Conspiracy
- Capital Crimes/Capital Cases
- Felonies
- Grand Jury Proceedings
- Juvenile Crimes
- Misdemeanors
- Parole
- Probation
- Perjury
- Plea Negotiation
- Search & Seizure
- Animal Abuse
- Child Abuse
- Domestic Violence
- Elder Abuse
- DUI
- Felony Auto Accidents
- Traffic - Moving Violations
- Hacking
- Unauthorized Access
- Expungement or Expunction
- Drug Cultivation & Manufacturing
- Drug Possession
- Intent to Distribute Drugs
- Intent to Sell Drugs
- Illegal Possession or Transportation
- Other Weapons & Devices
- Bank Fraud
- Checks & Credit Cards
- Embezzlement
- Extortion
- Forgery
- Identity Theft
- Arson
- Burglary
- Embezzlement
- Larceny
- Shoplifting
- Theft
- Trespass
- Vandalism
- Abduction
- Child Abuse
- Child Pornography
- Indecent Exposure
- Prostitution, Solicitation, & Pandering
- Rape
- Sexual Assault
- Stalking
- Trafficking in Women
- Assault & Battery
- Domestic Violence
- Extortion
- Kidnapping
- Manslaughter
- Murder
- Robbery
Bar Admissions
CA, Dec 1995
Bar Number: 178135
Other Court Admissions
California
Association Memberships
California Bar Association
San Diego County Bar Association
North San Diego County Bar Association
Continuing Education
I teach criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence at local community colleges. I also regularly attend seminars in criminal law and trial advocacy.
Example Cases
I represent regular people from all walks of life who find themselves in trouble with the law. I routinely handle cases involving allegations of DUI or "Drunk Driving," Domestic Violence, drug possession and/or sales, burglary, robbery, embezzlement, petty theft, resisting arrest, assault with a deadly weapon, probation violations, vandalism and murder. I can also help you "clear" your record after your case is concluded.
Education
Degree:
Juris Doctorate
School:
University of Pittsburgh
City:
Pittsburgh
State:
PA
Year:
1995
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
School:
University of California, Santa Barbara
City:
Santa Barbara
State:
CA
Year:
1990
Honors:
Graduated with Honors
Focus and Accomplishments:
Served on University Center Governance Board
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus and History
My firm was established in 2002. We focus exclusively on criminal defense.
Previous Employment Summary
I served as a prosecutor with the San Diego District Attorney's Office for six
years from 1996-2002.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
I strongly encourage my clients to learn as much as they can about the legal issues involved in their case. Experience demonstrates that clients who clearly understand the legal issues specific to their case are better able to make informed, intelligent decisions regarding the defense of their case.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
Memory fades over time, so it is important to document everything concerning your case and the circumstances of your arrest as soon as you possibly can.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
No.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I am a natural-born leader. I also love a good debate or argument. As an attorney, I argue and advocate on behalf of my clients on a daily basis. I love the excitement and drama of being a trial attorney.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
Upon graduating law school and passing the bar exam on my first attempt, I accepted a position with the San Diego County District Attorney's Office. For six years I prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases and conducted well over 50 jury trials. The experience I gained prosecuting criminal offenses together with my "inside" knowledge of how the prosecutor's office functions enables me to competently and aggressively represent my clients' interests.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
I began my legal career as a prosecutor. When I decided to open my own practice it was a natural move to defend the very cases I formerly prosecuted.
What do you like best about your career?
I enjoy putting my professional experience to work for the benefit of my clients. The criminal justice system is confusing and intimidating to those unfamiliar with it. Understanding how law enforcement investigates criminal offenses and how the prosecutor's office functions enables me to effectively protect my client's rights. I enjoy navigating my clients through the maze of the criminal justice system while always seeking the best possible outcome.
Tell us about your law firm:
I am a solo practitioner. I develop a one-on-one relationship with every client. I personally handle each case from beginning to end. If I accept your case, you will know exactly who is handling your case every step of the way. When necessary, I employ investigators and expert witnesses to assist in the defense of your case.
What are your strengths and style?
My style is professional, yet informal and direct. I maintain a strong rapport with many prosecutors, judges, and attorneys. These relationships benefit my clients directly. I am trusted and well-regarded in all courthouses in which I appear and practice.
Personal Interests:
I enjoy hiking, camping, reading, and California history. I have climbed Mt. Whitney as well as four other peaks over 14,000 feet tall. I hope to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro before I turn 50.
Office Manager/Assistant
Andrea - Office Manager
Fax
(760) 631-1098
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday
by appointment.
(800) 339-9555
Emergency After Hours
Yes
Foreign Languages
Spanish
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
Most cases are handled on a flat-fee basis. Your fee depends upon the complexity of your case and whether the charges against you are felonies or misdemeanors. If your case is settled before trial with a negotiated settlement (plea-bargain) your fee will be less than if your case goes to trial before a jury.
Hourly Rates
Most cases are handled on a flat-fee basis; however, my hourly fee is $250.
Free Initial Consultation?
I provide every client with a free confidential initial consultation. This consultation allows me to learn about the facts and circumstances of your specific case.
Typical Retainer
Since every case is unique it is impossible to list a "typical retainer," however, as a basic guideline: Misdemeanor cases begin at $2,500. Felony cases begin at $4,000.
Nolo's Licensing Check
Attorneys have passed a licensing check. Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the applicable bar associations upon joining the directory.
Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any bar association.
