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San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria Criminal Defense Lawyers

When caught in the criminal justice system and accused of a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer in San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria to protect your rights and freedoms. The legal team at the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C. has exceptional criminal defense skills and extensive experience in court. When you hire us, you get a team of dedicated and compassionate attorneys who will examine every avenue to get you the best possible outcome. You can be confident you will be defended by smart, battle-tested criminal defense lawyers with the knowledge and legal skills to develop a powerful case for your defense.

How may we help you?

DUI

Facing a DUI charge? A conviction for DUI can have severe consequences and have a long-term impact on your freedom and your reputation.

Domestic Violence

In San Luis Obispo and throughout California, a conviction for domestic violence can lead to grave consequences—your defense could not be more critical.


Assault & Battery

An assault or battery charge can result in severe repercussions, including jail or prison time, and must be defended vigorously. 

Drug Crimes

Many drug offenses can lead to very heavy sentences in California. We work to negotiate reduced charges, seek alternatives to jail or prison time, or fight for an acquittal at trial. 

White Collar Crimes

White-collar offenses demand a nuanced, well-prepared defense. Our criminal defense team can defend against cases of fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes.

Sex Offender Registry Removal

If you are eligible, we can craft a petition that seeks to remove you from the sex offender registry so you can live your life in freedom.

Post-Conviction Relief

Whether you are seeking post-conviction relief for immigration reasons or to improve your job prospects moving forward, we can help.

Theft Crimes

Our San Luis Obispo criminal defense team defends cases ranging from grand theft to shoplifting. 

Environmental Crimes

Environmental violations are heavily punished. We are skilled in developing defense cases for individuals and companies accused of environmental crimes. 

Driver’s License Suspensions

Losing your legal right to drive can be a personal and professional disaster. We can fight to restore your driving privileges.

Charged with a Crime in San Luis Obispo or Santa Maria?

Being accused of committing a criminal act is terrifying—and comes with extreme personal consequences, including incarceration, fines, and damaging your future opportunities. When the prosecutor files criminal charges against a person, it is because they believe they can prove the case against that person beyond a reasonable doubt. Prosecutors will listen to a good criminal defense attorney who presents additional evidence or a legal defense, such as a constitutional violation. Our San Luis Obispo criminal lawyers are proud to have earned a reputation for legal excellence in criminal defense law. We are skilled in uncovering the weaknesses and flaws in the case and relentlessly pursuing a favorable outcome, whether a dismissed charge, reduced charge, reduced penalties, or a “not guilty” verdict in San Luis Obispo Superior Court. 

Beyond our legal skills, we profoundly believe our clients deserve to be treated with compassion, understanding, and respect. We understand that the mistakes people make should not define who they are and who they get to be. Attorneys Kara Stein-Conaway, Jeff Stein, and Carrie Winters have dedicated their careers to protecting the rights and interests of their clients. They are all driven by a passion for criminal law and are dedicated to their clients. We will not judge you for what you are accused of doing; instead, we will stand with you as you face one of the most brutal challenges of your life.

Client Success Stories

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KB
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I’d like to share this personal text I sent Jeff. I cannot speak highly enough about him. Hello Jeff, It’s been on my heart to send you a text and find the right words. I don’t think saying a mere Thank you, is quite adequate for what you’ve done for my husband, for us as a family. We are extremely grateful for all you’ve done to help him/us. That was hands down the worst 3 weeks of our 17 year marriage. Traumatizing to imagine loosing everything. You were a source of strength for us during this time. Not just because of your position, or your knowledge. But, your calm, steady demeanor, explaining things simply so we could understand and also your connection to our mutual friend. Jeff, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your empathy towards our situation, your expertise, your unexpected and overwhelming generosity. We will NEVER forget what you have done for us. ❤️😭🙏🏼
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Jonathan Burch
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There are attorneys who know the law, and then there are attorneys who have spent half a century living it, building relationships, earning trust, and developing the kind of judgment that only comes from decades of real experience. Jeffrey Stein is the latter, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. I came to Jeff facing serious charges that threatened both my freedom and a long career in a demanding and highly regulated field. From our first conversation he demonstrated clarity of thought, strategic depth, and an honesty about the realities of my situation that immediately gave me confidence. He was consistently available, responsive, and direct. He never hedged when I needed a straight answer. What distinguishes Jeff from other attorneys is not just his legal ability but the extraordinary network of professional relationships he has cultivated over more than fifty years of practice, almost all of it in San Luis Obispo County. Those relationships matter enormously in ways that are difficult to quantify but impossible to overstate. The standing he has earned in this community, with prosecutors, with the courts, with fellow members of the bar, creates opportunities for resolution that simply would not exist without it. In my case that standing made a decisive difference. The firm he has built alongside his daughter Kara Stein-Conaway reflects a career of genuine excellence. The knowledge, judgment, and professional relationships Jeff has developed over five decades are being carried forward by the next generation of this firm, which speaks well for the community they serve. If you need a criminal defense attorney in San Luis Obispo County, you will not find better counsel, better judgment, or a more dedicated advocate. My gratitude is beyond what a review can adequately express.
Google
I V
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I want to start by thanking everyone at this firm. Everyone I interacted with was truly amazing and played an important role in helping with my case. I chose this law firm because of their excellent reviews, and from my very first conversation with them I knew I had made the right decision. They were incredibly kind, listened carefully to all of my concerns, and took the time to answer every question I had.Throughout the entire process, they worked diligently and put a tremendous amount of effort into my case. In the end, I received the best outcome I could have hoped for, worked with a forensic chemist and I did not get my license suspended. They provided constant reassurance and I never felt like I was going through this alone, which meant a lot during such a stressful time. They helped guide me through my court case and DMV hearing and kept me updated every step of the way. I especially want to give a huge thank you to Sarah Matthews and Carrie Winters for always responding to my emails quickly and for being such incredible support. I believe that they both truly advocate for their clients and work hard to achieve the best outcome. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Everyone I spoke with—from the receptionists to the attorneys—was professional, compassionate, and extremely helpful. This entire team truly cares about their clients and puts in 100% effort. I am incredibly grateful for everything they did for me, especially during a time when I felt very overwhelmed.
Google
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Kara, Carrie and the rest of their team really helped me feel at ease going forward with my case. As someone who's dealt with, unfortunately, several attorneys over the years, having confidence in the abilities of one's legal representatives is vital to their mental health. This team gave me confidence from the first call.
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S A
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I reached out to Stein-Conway Law Firm to have my record expunged after putting the task off for a while. I had some anxiety about revisiting that part of my past, but Jeff made the entire process feel simple, manageable, and comfortable. He explained each step clearly and kept me informed while I was navigating my own busy schedule. He truly handled everything. I'm incredibly grateful for his help and would highly recommend him to anyone needing guidance through this process!
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Kellie
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I will be forever grateful for the care the team gave me during a very difficult time. Words can’t describe how warm, respectful and brilliant they are. Sarah, my case manager was always willing to go the extra mile. Daniella always went above and beyond to connect me with the right person every time I called; which was many times. Carrie went to bat for me in court and made me very aware of what to expect and put my mind as ease. I highly recommend the Stein-Conaway law firm just as someone had recommended them to me.
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Saul Rivera
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Attorney Kara Stein-Conaway and her entire team were an excellent group of professionals who helped me with legal representation for a couple of misdemeanor charges I though had been taken care of long time ago. During my case, I was kept fully informed on the progress of my case with excellent verbal and written communication. I was treated with respect and empathy at all times . The hard work put together before the court date resulted in positive and effective results as my criminal case is now closed. I'm glad I chose this firm when I was looking for representation in SLO County. Many 5-star reviews by previous clients was the key.
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larryf43
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I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Stein at Stein-Conaway Law Firm, PC, and I am thoroughly impressed by his professionalism and dedication. Jeff Stein was recommended to me as an excellent fit for my legal needs, and that recommendation proved to be absolutely correct. Throughout my experience, Jeff Stein demonstrated deep expertise, clear communication, and genuine care for my situation. I felt supported and confident every step of the way. If you are seeking a knowledgeable and trustworthy attorney in San Luis Obispo, I highly recommend Jeff Stein. Their commitment to clients and high ethical standards truly set them apart.
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Jw Wright
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Mr. Stein is an amazing attorney! I wouldn't be able to do what I've done without him! I highly recommend him to others needing a defense attorney. He works with you financially if needed. He is one of the best attorneys I've had the pleasure of working with. Thank you, Mr. Stein, for all of your hard work!
Google
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I highly recommend Stein-Conaway Law Firm and their team if you ever face a difficult situation and don’t know who to turn to. From day one, the Assistant kindly took the time to take our information and scheduled my husband and I a phone appointment to speak to the Attorney. Attorney Kara Stein-Conaway was very kind and professional and took the time to listen and made my husband and I feel comfortable with the information and her experience. I liked how I was able to communicate with the Staff via email. The staff answered the emails on time and we were kept updated on any status or anything that was needed via email as well. It only took a few weeks to hear back from Attorney Carrie Winters stating “Congratulations”!! Attorney appeared in court and case was won. Thank you so much Stein-Conaway Law Firm and all staff ( Kara, Daniella, Carrie, Sarah, Gabriella) for your professionalism and amazing job. We are beyond grateful.

Success Stories
mobile Success Stories

You Need a San Luis Obispo or Santa Maria Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Trust

When you need a criminal defense attorney, you need someone you can trust. You need to be assured that they have your back. We are those attorneys. You deserve to be protected by attorneys with a combination of legal talent, unwavering drive, and compassion. The defense strategies and legal actions taken for your defense significantly impact whether you will walk away with your life intact or face serious consequences. If you need a criminal defense lawyer in San Luis Obispo, we invite you to contact us. We are committed to fighting for every legal advantage we can find for you. We know you are facing severe risks if you are accused of committing a crime, whether a misdemeanor or felony. We bring experience, intelligent strategies, and the legal skills you need on your side in court. 

Kara Stein-Conaway

Attorney, President

Jeffrey R. Stein

Attorney Of Counsel

Carrie Fusco

Senior Counsel

Raymond Allen

Raymond Allen

Senior Counsel

Kara Stein-Conaway

Attorney, President

Jeffrey R. Stein

Attorney Of Counsel

Carrie Winters

Senior Counsel

Raymond Allen

Raymond Allen

Senior Counsel

Charged With a Crime in San Luis Obispo or Santa Maria? Don’t Take Chances.

When caught in the criminal justice system and accused of committing a crime, your first action should be to exercise your rights under the U.S. Constitution. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Everything you say to law enforcement can be used as evidence against you. Most people want to be helpful when asked questions by the police, and it can be extremely hard to say the words, “I am not answering questions or giving a statement without an attorney present.” But doing just that can make a difference in the outcome of your criminal case. Avoid answering questions or engaging in conversations with the police. Your first step is to seek legal advice. The earlier our legal team at the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C. is involved in your defense, the better it could be for you. In some cases, early intervention from our firm can lead to the prosecutor declining to file any charges at all or deciding to file reduced charges. You can rely on us to look into every detail of the case against you to identify the weaknesses that could open the door to a successful outcome.

Why Choose Us?

Personalized Defense Strategies

At the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C., we are honored to be trusted by our clients. We work hard to build defense strategies that will protect your best interests. Our approach is personalized and focused on delivering compassionate legal counsel at every step of the process.

Experienced and Dedicated Defense Attorney Team:

With years of experience in criminal defense, we are committed to vigorously fighting to achieve the most favorable outcomes. Over our years in practice, we have earned a reputation for legal excellence and bring knowledge, insight, and tenacity to every case we represent. We are passionate about helping our clients fight for their rights and freedoms.

Clear Communication and Support:

Our clients deserve honest, open communication. We ensure you are fully informed and have regular updates. If you have questions or concerns, we respond quickly. You will be supported, informed, and treated with respect and compassion at every step of the legal process. 

Aggressive Advocacy

Our criminal defense lawyers fight passionately to protect the rights of the people we represent. Our proactive, intelligent, and focused defense approach involves challenging evidence, negotiating with skill, and representing our clients fiercely in court with a well-prepared, persuasive defense case to pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

Compassionate Approach

We understand being accused of a crime is highly stressful and troubling—and comes with risks. Our legal team provides personalized legal counsel with respect. We treat every individual with dignity and personal support, offering legal guidance reflecting our extensive legal experience and genuine compassion. We will never judge you for the crime you are accused of committing and will stand with you every step of the way.

Proven Track Record

Our reputation in criminal defense has led to numerous five-star reviews from grateful clients. We are known for being focused on results, whether by reducing charges, defending our clients in court to seek an acquittal, or reducing penalties. We believe our clients deserve the best defense possible from a law firm with a track record of positive results.

Personalized Defense Strategies

At the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C., we are honored to be trusted by our clients. We work hard to build defense strategies that will protect your best interests. Our approach is personalized and focused on delivering compassionate legal counsel at every step of the process.

Experienced and Dedicated Defense Attorney Team

With years of experience in criminal defense, we are committed to vigorously fighting to achieve the most favorable outcomes. Over our years in practice, we have earned a reputation for legal excellence and bring knowledge, insight, and tenacity to every case we represent. We are passionate about helping our clients fight for their rights and freedoms.

Clear Communication and Support

Our clients deserve honest, open communication. We ensure you are fully informed and have regular updates. If you have questions or concerns, we respond fast. You will be supported, informed, and treated with respect and compassion at every step of the legal process. 

Aggressive Advocacy

Our criminal defense lawyers fight passionately to protect the rights of the people we represent. Our proactive, intelligent, and focused defense approach involves challenging evidence, negotiating with skill, and representing our clients fiercely in court with a well-prepared, persuasive defense case to pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

Compassionate Approach

We understand being accused of a crime is highly stressful and troubling—and comes with risks. Our legal team provides personalized legal counsel with respect. We treat every individual with dignity and personal support, offering legal guidance reflecting our extensive legal experience and genuine compassion. We will never judge you for the crime you are accused of committing and will stand with you every step of the way.

Proven Track Record

Our reputation in criminal defense has led to numerous five-star reviews from grateful clients. We are known for being focused on results, whether by reducing charges, defending our clients in court to seek an acquittal, or reducing penalties. We believe our clients deserve the best defense possible from a law firm with a track record of positive results.

Can My Case Be Defended Successfully?

Every criminal case has areas open to challenges that could be successful with a judge or jury. These areas include the following:

  • Lack of Evidence: Insufficient or weak evidence that will make it difficult for the prosecutor to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • Chain of Custody Errors: Errors may be identified in how evidence is handled or tracked, leading to questions about the integrity of the evidence presented.
  • Inconsistent Witness Testimony: When a witness varies their testimony and doesn’t stay consistent, it casts doubt on the reliability and honesty of the witness.
  • Improper Police Conduct: Procedure violations by law enforcement can include unlawful search and seizure, coerced confessions, or other violations.
  • Suppression of Evidence: In some cases, improper conduct by law enforcement, like unlawful searches, can lead to having a judge order the evidence at issue excluded from consideration.
  • Unreliable Witnesses: Cases built on testimony from unreliable witnesses with credibility issues, such as jailhouse informants or witnesses given a benefit by the prosecutor if they testify against you.
  • Faulty Forensic Analysis: In some cases, errors are found in forensic testing procedures, putting the accuracy of the evidence into question.
  • Flaws in Circumstantial Evidence: When the prosecution relies heavily on circumstantial evidence, and flaws can be found in that circumstantial evidence, and the prosecution lacks direct evidence, it increases reasonable doubt.
  • Procedural Errors: When made, mistakes in charging decisions or other procedural mistakes can be used for your benefit.
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Our Latest Blog Posts

Do the Skills of Your Criminal Defense Lawyer Matter?

By holding a license to practice law, all attorneys in the state of California are able to represent people. But experience in the courtroom matters. At the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C., we are proud to be known for our skills in presenting a persuasive defense case in court while working behind the scenes with the prosecutor to serve the interests of our clients. Over our years in practice, we are honored to have achieved a reputation for legal excellence. If you are facing criminal charges in San Luis Obispo, you deserve to know that everything possible is being done to defend you.

What to Expect From Your Criminal Lawyer at the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C.?

When the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C. represents you, you can expect more than just having a lawyer who shows up in court. You will have a team of dedicated advocates fighting for you. We operate differently than many other law firms, offering our clients the following:

  • Attentive and Responsive: Open and transparent communication is a priority at our firm. Facing criminal charges is stressful, and you must know where you stand. We ensure you are always advised of the progress of your case and are never left in the dark.
  • Proactive: Time is of the essence in criminal cases. We act immediately, investigating the facts and building a case for the defense. Our decisive actions help you avoid waiting months for court dates when it is unnecessary. 
  • Supportive Advocacy: Our clients are far more than just cases to us. We see every client as an individual who deserves compassionate support without judgment. You can expect encouragement and compassion and to be heard and respected.

Choosing the Stein-Conaway Law Firm, P.C. means you will be represented by criminal defense attorneys who are genuinely invested in your future. We defend our clients with integrity, tenacity, and a personalized approach.

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Frequently Asked Questions