- State court SF Superior Court Criminal Division
- Federal court US District Court for the district covering San Francisco — higher conviction rates, longer sentences than state court
- Rates $400–$750/hr
- Key fact SF's progressive DA's office has charging reforms, but federal NDCA prosecution is unaffected by local policy
- Local tip San Francisco's tech economy makes it the highest-cost legal market in California — San Jose and East Bay attorneys handle many SF-area cases at 20–30% lower rates
- Verify calbar.ca.gov (State Bar of California) before retaining anyone
Federal prosecution priorities have shifted significantly under the Trump administration in 2026. Immigration-related charges, drug offences, and financial crimes are seeing increased federal attention in cities including San Francisco.
Federal cases are categorically different from state prosecution — the DOJ has substantially greater resources, and 2026 has seen expanded use of federal charges in areas previously handled at the state level. If you have received a target letter or believe you are under federal investigation, this requires immediate specialist attention separate from any state matter you may be dealing with.
Full Price Breakdown
| Level | Price Range | What This Gets You |
|---|---|---|
| Uncontested / Simple | $3,500 | Both parties agree on all terms — flat fee arrangement |
| Contested (standard) | $14,900 | Disputed issues, hourly billing, licensed attorney |
| Complex / High-conflict | $43,750 | Multiple disputes, lengthy proceedings, senior counsel |
| Per case | Hourly: $250–$650/hr avg | Initial retainer typically $3,000–$8,000 — not total cost |
📍 San Francisco vs national average: $14,900 in San Francisco vs $8,500 national avg for Criminal Defense. Data sourced from BLS Regional Price Parities and updated quarterly.