Federal and criminal defense in San Diego

The Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC defends people facing federal and California criminal investigations and charges. Vikas Bajaj has practiced law in California since 2001 and appears in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California and in San Diego Superior Court. The office is in The Bajaj Building, 2150 First Avenue, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92101, a short distance from the downtown federal and state courthouses. Call (619) 525-7005.

Federal crimes

Federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and often begin with an agent’s visit, a target letter or a grand jury subpoena. You can decline to answer questions until you have spoken with a lawyer. Learn how a case moves from investigation to sentencing on our San Diego federal criminal defense page. Federal prosecutors in San Diego also bring illegal reentry and alien smuggling cases under 8 U.S.C. §§ 1326 and 1324, and computer fraud and cybercrime cases under 18 U.S.C. § 1030.

Healthcare fraud

Physicians, clinic owners, pharmacies and billing staff can face audits, payment suspensions and criminal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 and the Anti-Kickback Statute. See our healthcare fraud defense guide.

White-collar crime

Wire fraud, mail fraud, PPP and EIDL loan fraud, embezzlement and computer crimes can be charged in state or federal court. Our white-collar defense page explains the statutes and the first steps to take.

Felony charges

Vikas Bajaj also defends state and federal felony cases, including drug crimes and violent crimes.

Vikas Bajaj provides legal commentary on Fox News, FOX 5 and KUSI; you can watch clips on our media page. Every case is different, and this page is general information, not legal advice. To discuss your situation confidentially, contact the office.

Federal statutes we defend against

In the Spotlight

Featured appearances, interviews, and insights.

A federal judge signed off on an FBI search tied to the Eric Swalwell investigation. Attorney Vikas Bajaj explains what that judge had to believe. The FBI searched a Los Angeles mansion connected to the investigation of former Congressman Eric Swalwell. On Fox News, Vikas Bajaj breaks down what it took to get that warrant signed. Key points: - A federal judge had to find probable cause that evidence was in the house - The evidence also had to be likely not destroyed - Under the staleness doctrine, that points to roughly the last six months - Why that should "send shivers up Swalwell's spine" Watch the full segment on the channel. Subscribe for more legal analysis from Vikas Bajaj on the cases making national news. Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC San Diego, California | Licensed in California and Texas Federal criminal defense | White collar and fraud investigations | State criminal defense | Search warrants and grand jury matters Website: https://bajajlaw.com/ Phone: (619) 525-7005 This video is commentary for general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. #Shorts #Swalwell #SearchWarrant
Shivers Up Swalwell's Spine: What the Federal Judge Saw
DOJ says it charged more than 130 noncitizens with voting in American elections. Attorney Vikas Bajaj explains why that matters and what happens next. Senator Chris Coons said proven illegal voting cases are "very, very, very few." On Fox News, Vikas Bajaj responds: 130 is more than one. Key points: - DOJ reports 130+ noncitizens charged in about 50 days - Federal penalties may range from about a year up to 5 years - Judges may show mercy; the real consequence is often deportation - These symbolic prosecutions are about sending a message Watch the full segment on the channel. Subscribe for more legal analysis from Vikas Bajaj on the cases making national news. Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC San Diego, California | Licensed in California and Texas Federal criminal defense | White collar and fraud investigations | State criminal defense | Search warrants and grand jury matters Website: https://bajajlaw.com/ Phone: (619) 525-7005 This video is commentary for general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. #Shorts #NoncitizenVoting #DOJ
130 Charged With Illegal Voting: Message, Not Conviction
DOJ says it charged more than 130 noncitizens with voting in American elections. Attorney Vikas Bajaj explains why that matters and what happens next. Senator Chris Coons said proven illegal voting cases are "very, very, very few." On Fox News, Vikas Bajaj responds: 130 is more than one. Key points: - DOJ reports 130+ noncitizens charged in about 50 days - Federal penalties may range from about a year up to 5 years - Judges may show mercy; the real consequence is often deportation - These symbolic prosecutions are about sending a message Chapters: 0:00 Sen. Chris Coons: "very few" illegal voters 0:20 DOJ: 130+ noncitizens charged 0:38 Vikas Bajaj: 130 is more than one 1:04 Deportation and symbolic prosecutions Subscribe for more legal analysis from Vikas Bajaj on the cases making national news. Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC San Diego, California | Licensed in California and Texas Federal criminal defense | White collar and fraud investigations | State criminal defense | Search warrants and grand jury matters Website: https://bajajlaw.com/ Phone: (619) 525-7005 This video is commentary for general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. #NoncitizenVoting #DOJ #FoxNews
Noncitizen Voting Prosecutions: Attorney Vikas Bajaj on Fox News
A federal judge signed off on an FBI search tied to the Eric Swalwell investigation. Attorney Vikas Bajaj explains what that judge had to believe. The FBI searched a Los Angeles mansion connected to the investigation of former Congressman Eric Swalwell. On Fox News, Vikas Bajaj breaks down what it took to get that warrant signed. Key points: - A federal judge had to find probable cause that evidence was in the house - The evidence also had to be likely not destroyed - Under the staleness doctrine, that points to roughly the last six months - Why that should "send shivers up Swalwell's spine" Subscribe for more legal analysis from Vikas Bajaj on the cases making national news. Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC San Diego, California | Licensed in California and Texas Federal criminal defense | White collar and fraud investigations | State criminal defense | Search warrants and grand jury matters Website: https://bajajlaw.com/ Phone: (619) 525-7005 This video is commentary for general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. #Swalwell #SearchWarrant #FoxNews
Swalwell Search Warrant: Attorney Vikas Bajaj on Fox News
Why was the driver in the deadly Wichita soccer field crash released? Attorney Vikas Bajaj says something must have led law enforcement and prosecutors to want more investigation into the vehicle or the driver before making a decision. Attorney Vikas Bajaj joined anchor Trace Gallagher and co-guest Emmett Miller on Fox News @ Night at the Nixon Library to discuss the crash in Wichita, Kansas, where a woman drove a truck onto a soccer field during a game and two people were killed. She was later released from custody. Witness Erica Case described the truck crossing the field as debris flew and people ran. Attorney Bajaj explains that crimes range from intentional acts down to criminal negligence, where a reasonable person should have known better and put someone else's life at risk. He says that, short of a mechanical issue or an issue with the driver's ability to operate the vehicle, criminal negligence would normally mean the person is held until bail is posted. Her release suggests investigators saw a reason to look further at the vehicle or the driver first. Emmett Miller points to a witness account that someone had to open the driver's door and press the brake to stop the truck. Attorney Bajaj adds that the driver's license is a civil matter, separate from the criminal case, and that the state is likely to act on it given the deaths. Thoughts are with the families and everyone affected. Legal commentary only. This is not legal advice. Chapters: 0:00 What happened at the Wichita soccer field 0:16 Witness Erica Case describes the crash 0:37 Why was the driver released? Levels of criminal intent 1:14 Why investigators want more on the vehicle or the driver 1:28 Emmett Miller on the brake witness 1:57 Hold or release while investigators find out? 2:16 The driver's license is a civil issue https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #Wichita #SoccerFieldCrash #Attorney #CriminalDefense #Justice
Wichita Soccer Field Crash: Why Was the Driver Released? Attorney Vikas Bajaj Explains
Is the O.J. Simpson case still open? Attorney Vikas Bajaj says it is open only if someone was involved before the murders. Help after the killings is accessory after the fact, and that clock ran out in 1997. Attorney Vikas Bajaj joined anchor Trace Gallagher and co-guest Emmett Miller on Fox News @ Night at the Nixon Library to discuss a new report alleging that a mobster helped cover up the murders of O.J. Simpson's ex-wife and her friend more than 30 years ago. The report centers on unsealed files about Joey Ippolito, a Simpson friend the report links to organized crime. Alan Dershowitz says he regards it as an open case. Attorney Bajaj explains the legal line that decides that question: it is an open case only if the information Joey Ippolito and his brother Sam gave the federal government in 1995 shows involvement before the murders. He notes that a federal prosecutor signed a document saying Joey cooperated and asking a judge to go easy on him, and that the account described a bloody knife, a bag and bloody clothing. Attorney Bajaj explains that this describes conduct after the killing, not before it, which would make someone an accessory after the fact, and that the time to charge that offense ran out in 1997. He also explains why the case still captivates people in California and Los Angeles, and why it is convenient for Dershowitz to raise the theory now that his former client has passed away. Legal commentary only. This is not legal advice. Chapters: 0:00 The new O.J. Simpson accomplice report 0:42 Is the O.J. Simpson case still open? 1:21 The bloody knife, the bag and accessory after the fact 1:38 Why the case still captivates, and Dershowitz's theory https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #OJSimpson #Attorney #CriminalDefense #Lawyer #Justice
Is the O.J. Simpson Case Still Open? Attorney Vikas Bajaj on the Accomplice Claims
Ilhan Omar could be facing a prisoner's dilemma, says attorney Vikas Bajaj. Speaking with Trace Gallagher on Fox News at Night, Vikas explains what happens when a summons arrives: "I can't talk to you, get a lawyer," and then the finger pointing starts. He notes there may be a whistleblower, calls it a "great technique by the Department of Justice," and says she has to get a well-heeled and experienced defense team immediately. https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #IlhanOmar #Lawyer #FederalDefense #TrialLawyer #CriminalDefense #FederalCrimes #FoxNews #Shorts
ILHAN OMAR: PRISONER'S DILEMMA? Attorney Vikas Bajaj on Fox News
DOJ vs. California over the voter rolls: who's right? Attorney Vikas Bajaj breaks it down. Speaking with Trace Gallagher on Fox News at Night, Vikas says California is correct that you need independently verifiable information, "not just an Excel sheet." But refusing to look at the data because a USB drive or link may be encrypted? "That's just foolish." Any judge or magistrate always has a way for a third party to cleanse the information and allow it to be viewed. https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #DOJ #VoterRolls #California #Lawyer #FederalDefense #TrialLawyer #CriminalDefense #FederalCrimes #FoxNews #Shorts
DOJ vs. CALIFORNIA: WHO'S RIGHT? Attorney Vikas Bajaj on Voter Rolls | Fox News
#TickleTheWire #IlhanOmar #FederalDefense Attorney Vikas Bajaj joined Fox News at Night with Trace Gallagher to break down two federal enforcement stories. Federal investigators are examining Representative Ilhan Omar's immigration paperwork, and her home was searched. Attorney Bajaj explains the strategy known as "tickling the wire": agents execute a search warrant and seize evidence after grand jury subpoenas have already gone out. That pressure can push witnesses and potential defendants into a prisoner's dilemma, and the finger-pointing begins. Anyone facing that situation needs an experienced defense team right away. The Department of Justice is pressing California for access to its voter rolls, and the Los Angeles County Registrar has declined to open the data drive DOJ provided. Attorney Bajaj notes that the statute the administration cites bars this kind of action within 90 days. He agrees that removing a voter requires independently verifiable information, not a spreadsheet. He also explains why refusing to review the data at all is not a sound legal position: courts routinely let a neutral third party vet sensitive data. Chapters: 0:00 Ilhan Omar immigration investigation 2:04 DOJ and California voter rolls https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #Attorney #Lawyer #Justice #California #Texas #DOJ #VoterRolls #GrandJury #FoxNews @FoxNews
Tickle the Wire: How DOJ Pressures Targets. Ilhan Omar Probe. CA Voter Rolls. Vikas Bajaj on Fox
Attorney Vikas Bajaj joined Fox News @ Night with Trace Gallagher to analyze three developing criminal cases. The deaths of two University of Mississippi students remain under investigation, and newly obtained court documents describe kratom-type pills found near both students. Attorney Bajaj explained that the affidavit shows a thin, attenuated connection between those capsules and the deaths. He noted that the investigating officer describes a poly-substance situation, including alcohol, THC and possibly a benzodiazepine, and that on this record, causation cannot support a criminal charge tied to the deaths. Toxicology results are still pending. The lone holdout juror in the Lindsay Clancy murder trial, Michael Desronvil, addressed the public for the first time in a video aired on Hannity. The trial ended in a mistrial. Attorney Bajaj explained that a holdout juror in a criminal case is the system working, not the system failing. A juror who weighs the evidence from the prosecution and the defense, follows the judge's rulings and instructions and applies common sense has done exactly what the law asks. In his view, that juror should not be treated as an outcast. The murder trial of former "American Idol" contestant Caleb Flynn, accused of killing his wife, Ashley Flynn, in Tipp City, Ohio, heads to closing arguments. Attorney Bajaj explained that the defense must press reasonable doubt and hold the prosecution to its burden of proof. Viewed in totality, however, the state has presented motive, opportunity, two gunshots to the back of the head consistent with an execution-style attack, a 9mm handgun missing from the vehicle console where Flynn kept it, and text messages about killing his wife. He expects a quick verdict. Flynn has pleaded not guilty. Chapters: 0:00 Ole Miss student deaths and the kratom affidavit 1:07 Lindsay Clancy holdout juror speaks out 2:27 Caleb Flynn murder trial heads to closing arguments Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #Attorney #Lawyer #Justice #California #Texas #LindsayClancy
Ole Miss Student Deaths. Clancy Holdout Juror. Caleb Flynn Trial. Attorney Vikas Bajaj on Fox News
Attorney Vikas Bajaj analyzed the murder trial of former "American Idol" contestant Caleb Flynn on Fox News @ Night with Trace Gallagher. Defense counsel must press reasonable doubt, but viewed in totality, the state has presented motive, opportunity, forensic evidence and text messages. He expects a quick verdict. Flynn has pleaded not guilty. https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #Attorney #Lawyer #Justice #California #Texas #CalebFlynn
Caleb Flynn Trial: Attorney Vikas Bajaj Expects a Quick Verdict | Fox News
Attorney Vikas Bajaj explained on Fox News @ Night that a holdout juror in the Lindsay Clancy trial reflects the criminal justice system working, not failing. A juror who weighs the evidence, follows the court's rulings and applies common sense should not be treated as an outcast. https://www.bajajlaw.com/ #Attorney #Lawyer #Justice #California #Texas #LindsayClancy
A Holdout Juror Is the System Working. Attorney Vikas Bajaj on Fox News
Practice Areas

Criminal Defense Practice Areas

DUI Defense Domestic Violence Drug Crimes Federal Crimes Sex Crimes Theft Crimes Healthcare Fraud White Collar Crimes
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At the Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, we provide strategic criminal defense for individuals facing serious charges and investigations throughout San Diego. Practicing since 2001, attorney Vikas Bajaj represents clients in California state and federal matters, from domestic violence charges to complex felony and federal prosecutions. Every case demands an individual strategy. We take the time to understand the facts, identify what is at stake, and build a defense focused on protecting our clients’ freedom, reputation, and future. Whether a case can be resolved through negotiation or requires a strategic, trial-ready defense in court, our approach is thorough, discreet, and prepared for what comes next.

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Attorney Vikas Bajaj seated in his San Diego office
Why Choose Us

LAW OFFICE OF VIKAS BAJAJ

Experienced criminal defense representation for serious state and federal matters in San Diego.

Nearly 25 YEARS

Nearly 25 Years of Experience

Nearly 25 years of experience representing clients through complex investigations, charges, and courtroom proceedings.

STATE + FEDERAL

State & Federal Criminal Cases

Experience handling matters in California state courts and federal criminal proceedings involving higher-stakes allegations and complex legal issues.

TRIAL EXPERIENCE

Serious Trial Experience

A defense approach built for litigation, with experience preparing serious criminal matters for contested hearings and trial when necessary.

LEGAL COMMENTARY

Recognized Legal Commentary

Vikas Bajaj has been featured by local and national media for commentary on criminal law, court proceedings, and high-profile legal issues.

From our clients

Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC, San Diego

Vikas Bajaj is an outstanding attorney. He was professional, responsive, and knowledgeable throughout my case. He made the process much less stressful and always had my best interests in mind. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for skilled and trustworthy legal representation.

— Delon M. · Google review · July 2026

Client review shown as written on Google. This testimonial does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. Attorney advertising.

Vik is not just an exceptional attorney he’s a genuine advocate who goes above and beyond to protect his clients’ interests. I felt fully supported and informed every step of the way. I highly recommend Vik Bajaj to anyone looking for a trustworthy and effective lawyer

— Natalia M. · Google review · October 2025

Client review shown as written on Google. This testimonial does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. Attorney advertising.

Professional, thorough and concise. My case was handled efficiently and swiftly, with all of my questions and concerns addressed, whether they had to do with the specifics of my case or not.

— Tyler F. · Google review

Client review shown as written on Google. This testimonial does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. Attorney advertising.

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Attorney Advertising. Law Office of Vikas Bajaj, APC, San Diego, California. Client reviews are reproduced word for word from Google; no reviewer was paid or given anything of value for a review. Testimonials and endorsements do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. Past results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case, and every case depends on its own facts and law. Reviewer names are shown as posted publicly; the firm does not confirm or discuss any person's matter.