How much does it cost to hire Marc for a criminal defense case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Marc walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Marc offer a free consultation?

Marc charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Marc's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Marc's current terms during booking.

How long do criminal defense cases in California typically take?

Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Marc gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Marc take my case if I'm outside San Francisco?

Marc is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Marc will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Marc?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Marc will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Marc accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

Marc's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Unclaimed · Is this you?

Marc Pelta, Criminal Defense Attorney in San Francisco, California

Over 19 years of legal practice · focused on Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI, and DV Defense · 5.0/5 rating from 3 verified client reviews

AttorneyatPelta Law

San Francisco, CA

Practicing criminal defense in San Francisco since 2007.

19+: Years practicing
5.0 ★: 3 client reviews
6: Bar admissions

Practices in

Criminal Defense DUI/DWI DV Defense DV Protection Federal Crimes General +6 more →

Are you Marc Pelta?

This profile was built from public bar records and is still unclaimed. Claim it free to control your photo, bio, and fees — and get client inquiries sent straight to you.

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Quick answer

Marc Pelta is an attorney based in San Francisco, CA. The practice focuses on Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI, and DV Defense. Marc has over 19 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Pelta Law. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 3 client reviews.

Based in: San Francisco, CA
Experience: over 19 years
Known for: Criminal Defense · DUI/DWI · DV Defense

Handles Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI, and DV Defense matters from San Francisco, CA.
Over 19 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Marc's practice areas in San Francisco

Marc concentrates on criminal defense, dui/dwi, dv defense, dv protection, and federal crimes. Each area below outlines the kind of case Marc handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Criminal Defense cases in San Francisco, California

Marc takes criminal defense matters in San Francisco, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Marc agrees to represent you.

DUI/DWI cases in San Francisco, California

Marc takes dui/dwi matters in San Francisco, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Marc agrees to represent you.

DV Defense cases in San Francisco, California

Marc takes dv defense matters in San Francisco, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Marc agrees to represent you.

DV Protection cases in San Francisco, California

Marc takes dv protection matters in San Francisco, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Marc agrees to represent you.

Federal Crimes cases in San Francisco, California

Marc takes federal crimes matters in San Francisco, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Marc agrees to represent you.

Biography

Marc Pelta, criminal defense attorney serving San Francisco

At Pelta Law, Marc Pelta prioritizes his clients' needs and diligently works to achieve their legal objectives. As a former prosecutor, Marc brings extensive experience in criminal litigation, managing cases from the pre-filing stage through arrest, police reporting, and ultimately to sentencing, whether from a trial conviction or a plea agreement. He has represented clients across California in all types of criminal matters, for both juveniles and adults, along with civil harassment, domestic violence, and elder abuse restraining order cases. Marc understands the complexities of criminal charges, recognizing that they often stem from underlying issues like addiction or mental health challenges. He is committed to persuading prosecutors to consider alternatives to incarceration, advocating for sentences that focus on rehabilitation through drug treatment and counseling. Known as an aggressive yet personable advocate, Marc has built a reputation for innovative, client-centered solutions. His approach consistently earns respect and trust from clients and colleagues alike.

Marc is admitted to practice before all California State Courts, as well as Federal Courts, and has the distinct honor of being admitted to the Bar of the Supreme Court of the United States, allowing him to represent clients at the highest judicial levels.

Working with Marc on a criminal defense matter

Clients Marc works with

Marc reviews new inquiries case-by-case for criminal defense, dui/dwi, and dv defense matters in San Francisco and the surrounding California area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Marc studied and practices

City University of New York School of Law at Queens College J.D. Honors: Law Review Executive Articles Editor; Practicing Law Student (California & New York)
—
San Francisco State University
B.A. History · 1997

Jurisdictions

Marc's state bar admissions

United States Suprem
2022 · ACTIVE
United States Distri
2021 · ACTIVE
United States Distri
2015 · ACTIVE
United States Court
2008 · ACTIVE
United States Distri
2008 · ACTIVE
California
2007 · ACTIVE

Marc studied at — in City University of New York School of Law at Queens College J.D. Honors: Law Review Executive Articles Editor; Practicing Law Student (California & New York) and B.A. History in San Francisco State University.

Law school and academic background

Marc completed — in City University of New York School of Law at Queens College J.D. Honors: Law Review Executive Articles Editor; Practicing Law Student (California & New York) and B.A. History in San Francisco State University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Marc runs in California is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Marc's legal honors and published work

Marc has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Marc Pelta's office in San Francisco

Marc's primary office is at 1390 Market Street, Suite 200, San Francisco, CA, 94102. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Pelta Law

1390 Market Street, Suite 200

San Francisco, CA 94102

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Marc Pelta — 5.0/5 rating from 3 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Marc. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing criminal defense attorneys in San Francisco.

5.0

3 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Marc Pelta claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Marc Pelta — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Marc usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Marc charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Marc's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Marc will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a criminal defense attorney in San Francisco, California

A short list to run through before you commit: How many criminal defense matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Marc

Marc discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every criminal defense matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Marc confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Marc's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many criminal defense practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Marc Pelta

How much does it cost to hire Marc for a criminal defense case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Marc walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Marc offer a free consultation?
Marc charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Marc's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Marc's current terms during booking.
How long do criminal defense cases in California typically take?
Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Marc gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Marc take my case if I'm outside San Francisco?
Marc is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Marc will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Marc?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Marc will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Marc accepting new criminal defense clients right now?
Marc's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by California residents in the last few months, answered by criminal defense attorneys like Marc Pelta. Each link opens the full answer thread.

What should I do if I’m arrested for assault in California?
I was arrested in Los Angeles, CA, for assault during an altercation at a bar last weekend. I didn’t start the fight, and there are witnesses who can back me up. I'm really anxious
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · California
How can I appeal a conviction for a DUI in Michigan?
I was convicted of a DUI in Detroit, MI, last year and am unhappy with the outcome. I feel like my attorney didn’t represent me well, and I’d like to know if there’s a way to appea
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Michigan
What can I do if I’m wrongfully accused of robbery in Pennsylvania?
I was wrongly accused of robbery in Philadelphia, PA, after an incident at a store where I was simply shopping. The security footage proves my innocence, but the police arrested me
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Pennsylvania
What should I know about plea deals for misdemeanor charges in Hawaii?
I received a misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct in Honolulu, HI, and the court suggested a plea deal. I’m unsure if I should accept it or fight the charge. What should I con
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Hawaii
What are the penalties for a DUI in Colorado after a second offense?
I received my second DUI in Denver, CO, last month, and I'm worried about facing harsher penalties this time around. My first offense resulted in a fine and community service, but
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Colorado
What are the legal consequences of underage drinking in Massachusetts?
I’m a college student in Boston, MA, and I was caught with alcohol at a party. I’m concerned about the legal repercussions this may have on my record and my future job opportunitie
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Massachusetts

Areas served

Criminal Defense attorneys serving San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego in California

Marc handles criminal defense matters throughout California. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified criminal defense attorneys in that community.

More counsel

If Marc's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these criminal defense attorneys in San Francisco handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.