Susan Ellen Leonard, Criminal Defense Attorney in Encinitas, California

Susan concentrates on criminal defense, insurance, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Susan handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Insurance

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• Litigation

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Susan's primary office is at 621 Second Street, Suite B, Encinitas, CA, 92024-3568. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

Susan 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.

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

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

• Does Susan offer a free consultation?

  Susan charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Susan's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Susan'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. Susan gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Susan take my case if I'm outside Encinitas?

  Susan 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 — Susan 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 Susan?

  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. Susan will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Susan accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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