Protect Your Future With A Local Advocate

Former Prosecutor & Trusted Counsel Serving Criminal, DUI, Estate & Family Matters

Navigating the legal system can feel overwhelming. Whether you’ve been charged with a crime, are facing a divorce, need help with probate, or are worried about a restraining order, you deserve a lawyer who will listen, inform, and stand up for you. At the Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich, we provide practical guidance and strong advocacy so you can move forward with confidence.

Committed To Your Rights & Future

The Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich is a California law firm devoted to protecting individuals and families facing serious legal challenges. Headquartered in downtown San Diego, we represent clients across the state in criminal, DUI, estate, and family law matters. Founder Michael E. Cindrich previously served as a prosecutor with the San Diego District Attorney’s Office, where he tried and negotiated cases ranging from gang injunctions and DUIs to robbery and kidnapping. This prosecutorial background gives him rare insight into how charges are filed, investigated and litigated. It allows our firm to anticipate strategies used by law enforcement and to build proactive defenses that challenge the government’s case from the outset.

Our mission is to deliver reliable representation grounded in real experience. We deliberately limit our caseload so that every matter receives personal attention and thorough preparation. Many clients come to us after a first arrest or legal conflict and are unsure how to proceed. Others are facing complex allegations that threaten their freedom, family or livelihood. In each situation we explain what to expect, outline your options and stand by you in court.

Los Angeles Civil Litigation Attorney Michael Cindrich

What We Do

Corporate Representation – Our firm defends businesses and their owners facing criminal allegations such as fraud, regulatory violations, and white‑collar offenses. We work to protect your company’s reputation and future by scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence and seeking the most favorable resolution.

DUIs & Reckless Driving – A reckless driving or DUI charge threatens your freedom and license. As a former prosecutor, Michael E. Cindrich knows how these cases are built and uses that knowledge to challenge traffic stops, testing procedures, and other evidence.

Drug Possession – Allegations of possession or sale of controlled substances can lead to serious penalties. We analyze search warrants, seizure methods, and lab results to identify constitutional violations and pursue dismissal or reduction of charges.

Federal Crimes – Federal investigations often involve complex procedures and harsh penalties. We represent clients accused of offenses such as drug trafficking, wire fraud, and firearm crimes, guiding you through federal court rules and negotiating with federal prosecutors.

Restraining Orders & Domestic Violence – When criminal allegations intersect with family conflicts, the stakes are high. We defend clients facing restraining orders and domestic violence charges while safeguarding their parental rights and reputation.

Felonies – Serious offenses like robbery, burglary, assault with a deadly weapon, and kidnapping require a proactive defense. Michael E. Cindrich’s prosecutorial experience with these charges helps us anticipate the state’s strategies and craft a tailored defense.

Sex Offenses – Accusations of sexual misconduct carry long‑lasting consequences. We handle these sensitive cases discreetly, challenge questionable evidence, and ensure that your constitutional rights are respected throughout the process.

DUI With Accident – When an impaired driving allegation involves a collision, prosecutors often seek enhanced penalties. We examine accident reports, blood‑alcohol tests, and witness statements to contest the state’s case and protect your driving privileges.

DUI/DWI – A standard DUI or DWI charge can lead to fines, probation, and mandatory programs. We challenge the legality of traffic stops, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer results to seek reduced penalties or dismissal.

Underage DUI – California has zero‑tolerance laws for drivers under 21. We defend young clients facing license suspensions and criminal penalties, advocating for alternatives that protect their future.

DUI With Injury – Cases involving bodily injury carry heavier penalties and potential civil liability. Our firm investigates the cause of the accident, questions blood‑test accuracy, and explores defenses aimed at minimizing the impact on your life.

Felony DUI – Multiple prior convictions or incidents involving injury can elevate a DUI to a felony. We analyze the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight to protect your freedom and career.

Multiple Offenses – Repeat DUI charges pose serious consequences. We help clients navigate sentencing enhancements, addiction treatment options, and administrative hearings to pursue the best possible outcome.

Probate Estate Lawyer – Probate ensures that a deceased person’s wishes are honored and debts are paid. We guide executors and beneficiaries through every step—from validating the will to inventorying and appraising assets, paying creditors, and distributing property. Our goal is to simplify the process and prevent costly mistakes.

Contests/Litigation – Disputes over wills and trusts can divide families and stall estate administration. We represent heirs, beneficiaries, and fiduciaries in contested probate litigation, working to resolve claims of undue influence, lack of capacity, or fiduciary misconduct through negotiation or courtroom advocacy.

Contested Divorce – Divorce is emotionally taxing and legally complex. We help clients understand California’s community property laws, negotiate fair settlements, and, when necessary, litigate for equitable distribution of assets, spousal support, and child custody.

Restraining Orders – When you need protection or are served with a restraining order, swift action is critical. We assist clients in obtaining or challenging restraining orders, ensuring that the process respects due process and protects your safety and rights.

What Our Clients Are Saying

What Our Clients Say About Us

What Makes The Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich Different?

What Makes The Law Offices Of Michael Cindrich Different?

A Strategic & Personal Approach

Choosing a lawyer is about trust. At the Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich, trust is earned through preparation, candor, and results, not through empty boasts. Several qualities set our firm apart.

Insight From Both Sides Of The Courtroom

Mike’s background as a former Deputy District Attorney means he has seen cases from the prosecution’s perspective. He prosecuted a broad range of charges, including DUI, assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, burglary, and kidnapping. This experience provides a real‑world understanding of how prosecutors evaluate evidence, negotiate pleas, and prepare for trial. When he transitioned to defense work, he brought that insight with him. It allows our firm to anticipate the government’s strategies and develop countermeasures tailored to your situation.

Thorough Preparation

We do not take shortcuts. Whether we are defending a felony or guiding a family through probate, we prepare every case as if it will be contested. For criminal and DUI matters, that means analyzing police reports for constitutional violations, challenging the reliability of breathalyzer and blood tests, and researching case law to support motions to suppress. For family and estate cases, it means assembling financial documents, gathering witness statements, and understanding the local court rules. Thorough preparation increases leverage in negotiations and positions you for success at trial if a settlement is not possible.

Meet Mike

Michael Cindrich is the founder and principal attorney of the Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich in San Diego. After earning a Bachelor of Arts from Bucknell University, he obtained his Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law and an M.B.A. from the university’s School of Business. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2006 and soon served as a Deputy District Attorney with the San Diego District Attorney’s Office. In that role he prosecuted a range of misdemeanors and felonies, including gang injunctions, DUIs, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, and kidnapping.

In 2008, Mr. Cindrich opened his own firm. He has since focused on criminal defense, DUI representation, family law, probate and estate litigation, and cannabis law. His work includes challenging the legality of traffic stops and blood‑alcohol tests, guiding families through divorce and custody disputes, and helping executors navigate California’s probate process. He is a lifetime member of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws and an active member of the National College for DUI Defense. During law school he volunteered with the California Innocence Project and received the Wiley W. Manuel Award for Pro Bono Legal Services.

Clients who work with Michael appreciate his direct communication and hands‑on approach. He takes the time to understand each client’s concerns, explains the law in plain terms, and crafts a tailored strategy. With a combination of courtroom experience, local knowledge, and compassion, he strives to protect his clients’ rights and help them move forward.

More About Michael Cindrich

Is The Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich The Right Partner For Your Case?

Helping You Decide With Confidence

Choosing a lawyer is a deeply personal decision and can be daunting. You may wonder if your situation is serious enough to justify legal help, whether the attorney you contact will understand the nuances of your case, and whether you will receive personal attention. At the Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich, we believe in transparency and want to help you make an informed choice.

Do You Need A Lawyer?

If you have been arrested, received a notice from the DMV, been served with divorce papers, or are responsible for administering a loved one’s estate, consulting a lawyer is a prudent step. Criminal and DUI cases can lead to incarceration, fines, license suspensions, and lasting criminal records. Family law matters affect your finances and relationships. Estate disputes can delay inheritances and fuel family discord. Even if you are unsure whether litigation is inevitable, speaking with an attorney early can help you understand your rights and options.

Does Our Firm Handle Cases Like Yours?

We represent clients in a wide range of matters:

Will You Receive Personal Attention?

Yes. Mike personally oversees each case and maintains open lines of communication. He responds promptly to calls and emails and explains legal processes in plain language. Our firm intentionally limits caseload to ensure that every client receives the attention they deserve.

Do We Understand The Local Legal System?

Our office is located in downtown San Diego, and we regularly appear in San Diego Superior Court’s criminal, family, and probate divisions. We understand the local court rules, filing deadlines, and procedural nuances that can impact your case. For matters outside San Diego County, we collaborate with trusted local counsel while remaining your primary point of contact.

Is Now The Right Time To Act?

Legal problems do not resolve themselves. The earlier you seek advice, the more options you have. When you contact our firm, we will listen to your story, assess the facts, and explain the law in plain terms. We will discuss potential strategies, whether that means negotiating with prosecutors, filing motions to suppress evidence, pursuing diversion programs or preparing for trial. We are candid about risks and honest about expectations, so you can make informed decisions.

Timing matters. In criminal and DUI cases, evidence can disappear quickly and deadlines for filing motions are strict. In family law matters, delay can affect custody arrangements or financial standings. Probate cases have statutory timelines for submitting wills and notifying creditors. Acting promptly allows us to protect your rights and develop a strategy. Even if you are simply weighing your options, a consultation can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Ultimately, the right partner is one who listens, informs, and advocates. If you are unsure whether you need a lawyer, consider the stakes. A criminal conviction can lead to jail time, fines, job loss and lasting stigma. A mishandled divorce can jeopardize your financial security and your relationship with your children. An unchallenged restraining order can affect custody or employment. Waiting only benefits the opposing side. Taking action now allows us to preserve evidence, protect your rights and position your case for the best possible outcome.

Get The Clarity You Need. Contact The Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich For A Confidential Case Evaluation Today.

Proudly Serving The State Of California

California’s legal landscape is vast and diverse, encompassing bustling cities, sprawling suburbs, and rural communities. While our office sits in the heart of San Diego, at 225 Broadway, which places us steps away from the San Diego Superior Court and within easy reach of courthouses in Chula Vista, El Cajon, Vista, and downtown. Our practice reaches far beyond city limits. California’s vast geography and diverse legal landscapes require a lawyer who can adapt strategies to local courts and communities. We have represented clients in counties across Southern California, including San Diego, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Imperial, and Los Angeles, as well as in courts in the Central Valley and Northern California. Our familiarity with local court rules, prosecutors, and judges enables us to tailor defenses and anticipate procedural nuances.

Michael Cindrich Attorney Proudly Serving All Of California

Knowledge of California Courts & Procedures

Criminal and DUI cases vary by county. San Diego County courts operate differently from the Los Angeles Superior Court or Riverside’s criminal divisions. Sentencing practices, plea policies, and even scheduling can differ significantly. Because Mike has litigated cases across multiple jurisdictions, he knows how to adjust strategies to fit the venue. For example, he understands the intricacies of simultaneous criminal and DMV proceedings after a DUI arrest and uses this knowledge to protect driving privileges while fighting the criminal charge. In family law, we understand the local procedures of San Diego’s Family Division and have represented clients in communities like Chula Vista, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon.

Federal & State Representation

Our firm is admitted to practice in state and federal courts. Federal cases often involve complex statutes, mandatory minimum sentences, and stringent procedural requirements. We have defended clients accused of federal drug conspiracies, wire fraud, and other offenses, navigating discovery rules and plea negotiations unique to federal court. In state courts, we handle misdemeanors, felonies, and infractions throughout California. Whether your case is filed in the United States District Court or a local Superior Court, we bring the same level of preparation and advocacy.

Serving Diverse Communities

California’s population is diverse, and so are the legal issues people face. We assist college students arrested for underage DUI in San Diego, professionals in Los Angeles facing white‑collar investigations, families in Riverside navigating divorce, and entrepreneurs across the state entering the cannabis industry. Our ability to travel and to work remotely allows us to serve clients who may not be able to meet in San Diego. We also maintain relationships with local counsel when a case demands collaboration. This statewide reach means that clients can rely on one firm for consistent representation, even as their legal needs span multiple counties.

Familiarity With Local Law Enforcement & Prosecutors

Understanding how local police agencies and district attorneys operate is critical. For instance, San Diego prosecutors may pursue DUI cases differently from those in Orange County. Mike’s former role as a prosecutor and his ongoing engagement with law enforcement in cannabis advocacy give him insight into investigative tactics and charging decisions. This helps us negotiate effectively and build defenses that resonate with judges and juries. In family law matters, familiarity with local support services, mediators, and court personnel allows us to guide clients through divorce and custody proceedings with minimal surprises.

Accessibility Across California

We pride ourselves on being accessible to clients regardless of location. For out‑of‑area clients, we offer telephone and video consultations and coordinate appearances to minimize travel burdens. We respond promptly to calls and emails because timely communication is crucial when legal deadlines loom. If a client in Northern California needs representation in San Diego or vice versa, we handle logistical details so that distance does not impede your defense.

Commitment To California Values

California’s legal landscape is dynamic. The state leads the nation in areas like cannabis regulation and environmental law, and it has unique approaches to criminal justice reform and family law. Our firm stays current on legislative changes, court decisions and regulatory developments. For example, our work in cannabis law involves tracking state licensing requirements, county ordinances and federal enforcement priorities. In DUI and criminal defense, we monitor changes to sentencing laws and diversion programs to provide up‑to‑date advice.

By combining statewide reach with local insight, we deliver representation that is both comprehensive and customized. Whether you are in a coastal city, an inland valley or a rural community, the Law Offices Of Michael E. Cindrich stands ready to protect your rights and help you navigate California’s legal system.

Ready for answers? Reach out today to schedule a case evaluation and let us put our experience to work for you.

Tell Us About Your Case

The details matter from the start. Whether you are dealing with a criminal charge, DUI, divorce, restraining order, or probate dispute, sharing the facts early can help us understand what is happening and what may need immediate attention.

Use the form to tell us what led you here, where your case stands, and any deadlines, hearings, or court dates that are coming up. The more context you provide, the easier it is for our office to evaluate your situation and respond in a meaningful way.

A legal problem can affect your record, your finances, your family, and your future. Reach out today to start the conversation and find out what steps may be available in your case.

    By providing a phone number and submitting this form, you agree to receive SMS messages from the Law Offices Of Michael Cindrich regarding your inquiry. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt-out at any time.

    *All fields required. Submission of an online form does not consitute an attorney-client relationship.

    Law Offices of Michael E. Cindrich, APC
    225 Broadway, Suite 2100
    San Diego, CA 92101

    Call to request a consultation

    Copyright © 2026 Law Office of Michael E. Cindrich, APC.
    Privacy Policy | Legal Disclaimers | Terms Of Use