Yesenia Luna
Legal Assistant
ABOUT jD LAW
Experience you can trust.
People in your corner.
Founded in 1990 by former LAPD detective James N. Dicks, jD LAW helps people across San Diego County protect their rights and move forward. Our Vista office is across the street from the North County Courthouse.
Free Consultation1990
Rooted in Vista. Serving San Diego.
We believe everyone deserves a second chance. A difficult moment should not be the end of your story.
THE FIRM BEHIND YOUR DEFENSE
Your rights matter.
So does your experience.
Our work includes state and federal criminal defense, from an investigation through trial. We also represent people pursuing personal injury claims. In every matter, we focus on the facts, your options, and the person behind the case.
Hard-hitting experience.
A former police investigator’s perspective, informed by more than 30 years of criminal defense practice.
Personalized attention.
Honest feedback, clear communication, and a defense strategy built around you—not just a case number.
Committed to justice.
Careful preparation and high ethical standards, with your constitutional rights at the center of the work.
EXPERIENCE ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BADGEA different perspective.
A distinct advantage.
A distinct advantage.
MEET YOUR ADVOCATE
He knows how they
build a case.
And how to challenge it.
Before defending the accused, James N. Dicks served as an LAPD police officer and undercover narcotics investigator. That firsthand experience informs how he examines evidence, questions procedures, and builds a defense.
Since opening his Vista practice in 1990, he has helped people across San Diego County navigate some of the hardest moments of their lives—with clear advice, careful preparation, and a commitment to their future.
Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist
Former LAPD officer & narcotics investigator
Over 30 years of criminal defense experience
San Diego’s Top Lawyers
Modern Luxury San Diego · 2025
James N. Dicks
FOUNDER & ATTORNEY
JAMES N. DICKS · FOUNDER & ATTORNEY
A career built on
understanding the details.
James began his career with the Los Angeles Police Department, advancing from police officer to undercover narcotics investigator. He attended law school while continuing to work for the LAPD, bringing firsthand investigative experience to his legal education.
After opening his Vista practice in 1990, he handled thousands of cases ranging from petty theft to murder. His work in state and federal courts combines an understanding of police procedures with a commitment to challenging the evidence and protecting his clients’ rights.
James is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist through the California Board of Legal Specialization. His background also includes experience as a drug recognition expert, adding a technical perspective to cases involving drugs and impaired driving.
Known to many as Jimmy, he values direct communication and practical advice. Away from the office, he enjoys reading, running at the beach, trial attorney podcasts, dancing, and traveling.
Education
Western State University College of Law
Honors & recognition
- Super Lawyers
- Top 100 National Trial Lawyer
Practice areas
Criminal Defense and Personal Injury
Professional associations & memberships
Criminal law
- American Bar Association
- American Association for Justice
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- National College for DUI Defense
- California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
- California DUI Lawyers Association
- San Diego County Bar Association
- North County Bar Association
Personal Injury
- Consumer Attorneys of California
- Consumer Attorneys of San Diego
- Consumer Attorneys of Los Angeles
Community
Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce
Education, honors, and memberships are drawn from the firm’s published James N. Dicks biography.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND YOUR CASE
One team.
Focused on you.
Led by James N. Dicks, our investigators, case managers, and support staff work together to develop the strongest possible defense. You deserve a team that treats you as a person, not just a file.
America Hernandez
Legal Assistant
Anna Perez
Legal Assistant
Anahi Hernandez
Legal Assistant
Dalia Hernandez
Legal Assistant
GET TO KNOW YOUR ATTORNEY
Questions for
James N. Dicks.
Learn about his background, approach to defense, and commitment to client communication. These answers are adapted from his interview published by jD LAW; they are not direct quotations.
Before becoming an attorney, James worked as an undercover narcotics investigator for the Los Angeles Police Department. Testifying in court showed him how important informed cross-examination can be—and how his understanding of police investigations could help people accused of crimes.
He chose criminal defense because he believes everyone deserves legal representation, fair process, and protection of their constitutional rights.
General information, not legal advice. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE
You don’t have to
face this alone.
Let’s talk.
Tell us what’s happening. We’ll listen, explain your options, and help you understand the next step. Your first consultation is free, with no obligation.
CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION · 24/7(760) 630-2000A clear first step.
01
Tell us your story
A conversation about what happened and what’s worrying you.
02
Understand your options
Practical guidance, honest answers, and a clearer picture of the road ahead.
03
Make an informed decision
Decide on your next step. No pressure and no obligation.
Private. Respectful. Focused on you.
Request your free consultation on our contact page. Please do not send sensitive case details by email. Contact alone does not establish an attorney-client relationship.