Business Details
21 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Legal Representation in Chula Vista, CA
Estolano Law is a client-focused legal practice led by Ray Estolano, a seasoned attorney with over 20 years of experience in criminal defense, immigration, and family law. Our founder previously served as a prosecutor in San Diego and Imperial County District Attorneys Offices, handling complex cases ranging from felony offenses to interstate child support litigation. This prosecutorial background informs our strategic approach to defense, emphasizing persuasive courtroom presentation and meticulous attention to detail.We prioritize settling cases when beneficial to clients but maintain a strong track record in litigating complex trials across all practice areas. As a Chula Vista-based firm, we combine deep community ties with Spanish language capabilities to serve diverse clients throughout San Diego County. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in competitive pricing structures, including flat fees for unlitigated divorces, while maintaining high standards of legal excellence recognized by peers and clients alike.
Services
Criminal Defense
Immigration Law
Family Law
DUI Defense
Federal Defense
Removal Defense
Child Custody
Visa Applications
Drug Cases
Unlitigated Divorce
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of combined prosecutorial and defense experience in criminal and family law
- Our team provides Spanish language services from reception to legal representation
- We maintain a client-based philosophy balancing settlement negotiations with trial readiness
- Our attorney has received multiple 'Best Attorney' awards from Chula Vista Star News
- We serve clients in both state and federal courts across San Diego County
What people say
Fantastic attorney
Legal excellence
Firm with heart
Highly recommended
Saved my life
Services
Criminal Defense
We represent clients in all types of criminal matters, from misdemeanors to serious felony cases in state and federal courts. Our approach combines prosecutorial insight with aggressive defense strategies to protect clients' rights. With experience handling juvenile cases, DUI charges, and complex federal offenses, we provide comprehensive legal representation tailored to each case's unique circumstances.
Immigration Law
Our immigration practice handles family-based petitions, removal defense, citizenship applications, and business immigration cases. We offer Spanish language support throughout the process and provide representation in consular interviews and waiver applications. The firm assists clients with both routine and complex immigration matters, including cases involving prior deportations or inadmissibility issues.
Family Law
We handle all aspects of family law including child custody, divorce, child support, and paternity actions. Our services include preparing temporary orders, negotiating settlements, and litigating contested matters in court. We offer flat fee arrangements for uncontested divorces and provide strategic guidance throughout the entire legal process.
DUI Defense
Our DUI defense practice focuses on protecting clients' driving privileges and minimizing legal consequences. We challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent clients in DMV hearings and criminal court proceedings. The firm's experience includes defending complex DUI cases involving accidents, injuries, or prior offenses.
Federal Defense
We represent clients facing federal criminal charges including drug trafficking, embezzlement, and immigration-related offenses. Our experience includes navigating federal sentencing guidelines, challenging complex evidence, and developing defense strategies tailored to federal court procedures. The firm handles cases from initial investigation through trial and appeals.
People
Ray Estolano
Attorney
Ray Estolano is a Spanish-speaking trial attorney with over 20 years of legal experience. He previously served as a prosecutor in San Diego and Imperial County District Attorneys Offices before establishing his private practice in 2005. He has been recognized as Best Attorney by Chula Vista Star News and maintains active community involvement through non-profit organizations.
Questions
What should I do immediately after being arrested?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer.
How can I bring my family member to the US?
We handle family-based immigration petitions, including visas for spouses, parents, children, and siblings through the proper USCIS process.
What factors determine child support amounts in California?
Child support calculations consider both parents' income, custody arrangements, healthcare costs, and the child's specific needs.
Can I get a waiver for immigration violations?
We help clients apply for immigration waivers to address bars to admissibility, including unlawful presence or prior deportations.
What are the benefits of hiring a private attorney over a public defender?
Private attorneys offer personalized attention, dedicated resources, and specialized experience without the heavy caseloads that often limit public defenders.
How long does a typical divorce process take?
California requires a minimum 6-month waiting period, but complex cases involving property or custody disputes may take longer to resolve.