Best San Diego Lemon Law Attorneys
in 2025 
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Richard M. Wirtz Wirtz Law APC |
Call Today 213-464-1932 |
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|
Jessica R. Underwood Wirtz Law APC |
Call Today 213-464-1932 |
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|
Amy R. Rotman Wirtz Law APC |
Call Today 213-464-1932 |
View Profile |
Our Selection Process
Attorney at Law Magazine established Local Legal Authorities in 2019 to help consumers find the best San Diego lemon law attorneys for their specific needs. The magazine has been interviewing attorneys since 2009. Every San Diego lemon law Local Legal Authority attorney focuses most of his or her time on cases and legal matters within the specific practice area for which they have been listed. Each attorney is highly successful in their practice area and has consumer reviews to confirm it. We hand-selected this list of attorneys because of their passion for justice, their credibility, and their ultimate desire to best represent their clients. No algorithms, patented technology or award-ranking systems helped us create this list. We curated a selection of passionate San Diego lemon law attorneys with the relentless desire to represent clients like you to the very best of their ability. Reach out to any attorney you would like to work with today.
How to Select the Best Lemon Law Attorney
Step 1: Look for Experience in Lemon Law Cases
Not all attorneys are highly experienced in lemon laws, so it’s important to find one with extensive experience in handling cases similar to yours. A skilled San Diego lemon law attorney will be familiar with laws and federal lemon law statutes, manufacturer tactics, and how to negotiate for buybacks, replacements, or cash settlements. They should have a proven track record of successful cases against automakers, as these companies often have strong legal teams defending their claims.
Step 2: Research Reputation and Client Reviews
Before choosing an attorney, research their client testimonials, online reviews, and case results to gauge their credibility and success rate. A reputable lemon law attorney in San Diego should have positive feedback from past clients, indicating their ability to secure fair outcomes. Look for reviews that highlight strong communication skills, professionalism, and effective negotiation tactics. Additionally, check if the attorney has been recognized by legal organizations or has received industry awards, as this can further validate their experience.
Step 3: Assess Their Fee Structure
Most lemon law attorneys in work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront legal fees—they only get paid if they win your case. Additionally, in some cases the attorneys may be able to recover the cost of legal fees from the manufacturer (rather than as a percentage of your settlement). It’s essential to confirm how the attorney will charge you before retaining their services. If anything is unclear, be sure to ask questions until you fully understand their payment options.
Step 4: Schedule a Consultation and Ask Questions
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. Use this opportunity to evaluate the attorney’s knowledge, responsiveness, and willingness to fight for your rights. Do they believe it best to settle with the manufacturer quickly? If needed, will they take the matter to court? Ask about their experience with your vehicle’s manufacturer, how long the case might take, and what outcomes they typically achieve. Pay attention to how well they explain the legal process and whether they provide realistic expectations. A great attorney should be transparent, communicative, and dedicated to winning your case. They should also be able to provide a clear strategy for your case based on your circumstances.
Recommendations While You Wait to Connect to an Attorney
- Gather All Vehicle Purchase Documents: Collect necessary paperwork, including your sales contract, lease agreement, loan documents, and warranty information. These documents will help your attorney determine if your vehicle qualifies under lemon law.
- Keep a Record of Repair Attempts: Document every time you took your vehicle to the dealership or manufacturer for repairs. Include service invoices, repair orders, and receipts that detail the issues and the work performed.
- Note the Dates and Mileage for Each Repair: Keep track of the dates your car was in the shop, how long it was unavailable, and the mileage at the time of each repair. This helps establish a pattern of ongoing defects.
- Document the Issues with Your Vehicle: Write down a detailed description of the mechanical or safety issues you've experienced, including how they affect the vehicle’s performance and safety.
- Avoid Further Repairs Without Legal Advice: Before agreeing to additional repairs or modifications, consult with your attorney. Some repairs could affect your claim if they are considered modifications rather than warranty repairs.
- Refrain from Selling or Trading the Vehicle: Selling or trading in the car before resolving your case can weaken your legal claim and make it difficult to seek compensation.
- Organize All Communication with the Manufacturer or Dealer: If you’ve contacted the manufacturer or dealership about the issue, keep records of all emails, letters, and phone calls.
- Stay Informed on Your State’s Lemon Laws: Understanding state-specific lemon laws can help you ask the right questions when you meet with your attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Do I Know If My Car Qualifies as a Lemon?
Each state has specific lemon law requirements, but generally, a vehicle may be considered a lemon if:
- It has a substantial defect that affects its safety, functionality, or value.
- The issue persists despite multiple repair attempts by an authorized dealership.
- The vehicle has been out of service for an extended period due to repairs.
The exact number of repair attempts and days out of service varies by state, so consulting a San Diego lemon law attorney can help determine if your vehicle qualifies.
- Do I Need a Lawyer for a Lemon Law Case?
While you can attempt to file a lemon law claim on your own, hiring an attorney increases your chances of a successful outcome. Manufacturers often deny claims, delay responses, or offer low settlements, making legal representation crucial. A lemon law attorney will handle the negotiations, file legal paperwork, and represent you in court if necessary. Since many lemon law attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, pursuing legal action often comes at no cost to you.
- How Long Does a Lemon Law Case Take?
The length of a lemon law case depends on factors such as the manufacturer’s response, the complexity of the case, and whether the claim is settled out of court. Many cases are resolved in a few months, but if a lawsuit is necessary, it can take six months to over a year. An experienced San Diego lemon law attorney can help speed up the process by efficiently handling negotiations and paperwork.
- Can I File a Lemon Law Claim If My Car’s Warranty Has Expired?
Lemon laws generally apply to vehicles under the manufacturer’s original warranty. However, some state lemon laws and federal consumer protection laws may still offer recourse for defective vehicles outside the original warranty period. If you are experiencing ongoing issues with your vehicle, consult an attorney to explore your legal options.
- What If the Dealership or Manufacturer Denies My Lemon Law Claim?
If a manufacturer refuses to honor a lemon law claim, a lemon law attorney can take legal action on your behalf. Many manufacturers try to delay or deny valid claims to avoid financial losses. An attorney will gather evidence, negotiate with the manufacturer, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to fight for your rights.
- Can I Still File a Lemon Law Claim If I Bought a Used Car?
In some states, lemon laws apply to used cars if they are still under the manufacturer’s warranty or were sold as a certified pre-owned vehicle. Even if your state does not have specific used car
lemon laws, federal consumer protection laws may still apply. An experienced lemon law attorney in San Diego can review your case and determine whether you have legal grounds to file a claim.