At the start of 2025, California passed Assembly Bill 1333, which revised the state’s self-defense laws, limiting how victims could protect themselves during an attack. Lawmakers proposed the bill as a way to curb vigilante justice and save lives by eliminating the unnecessary use of violence to stave off a threat. Under AB 1333, California residents had a duty to retreat from conflict before using deadly force. It also limited self-defense to the protection of life, not property. The revised statutes conflicted with the Castle Doctrine that allowed for the use of justified lethal force in one’s home.
Assembly member Rick Chavez Zbur spearheaded AB 1333, stating that the existing self-defense laws offered too much opportunity for someone to initiate a confrontation and falsely claim self-defense later. However, after the bill was passed, California lawmakers faced serious public opposition. While its initial purpose may have been to prioritize safety and de-escalation, many people argued that the new bill left victims vulnerable. Fear of criminal charges could lead to delayed action or intimidation tactics from an abuser, costing victims their lives.
In response to the outcry, California repealed AB 1333, reinstating previous self-defense laws. If you have been accused of a violent crime following a confrontation in which you feared for your life, working with a criminal defense attorney to prove you acted in self-defense can eliminate or reduce your charges.
For over 25 years, Morales Law Firm has defended those accused of misdemeanors, felonies, and federal crimes in San Francisco and throughout California. As a certified criminal law specialist, our lawyer has the skills, knowledge, experience, and resources to deliver the best possible outcome in your case.
Our Investigative Approach
San Francisco criminal defense lawyer Christopher Morales founded his private law practice in 1991, leveraging his passion and talent to battle police and prosecutors, upholding the rights of the accused. As a fierce trial attorney, Christopher Morales is known for his ability to build compelling defense strategies. His team includes Sylvia Palma, a Board Certified Criminal Defense Investigator with over 25 years of experience.
From pulling information from hesitant witnesses to finding holes in the prosecutor’s case, our San Francisco criminal defense legal team has established a reputation for delivering results in high-profile cases, including the Bilitnikoff Murder Case, 22nd Bryant Street Gang-Rape Case, and the Fernando Murillo Attempted Murder Case. Whether you have been accused of a drug crime, fraud, DUI, or violent offense, our San Francisco criminal defense attorney will protect your rights and fight for your future.
Entrust Your Case to an Award-Winning Team
Our persistent and unwavering commitment to advocating for those accused of crimes in California has garnered professional recognition, including the Triple A Rating on Attorney Search Network, Top 100 Lawyers designation from National Trial Lawyers Association, Super Lawyer award in multiple counties, and more. Attorney Christopher Morales is admitted to practice in the State of California, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court, so regardless of the severity or location of your charges, you can rely on our team at the Morales Law Firm to aggressively defend your rights.
If you have been accused of a criminal offense, don’t wait to seek the professional legal representation you need. Schedule a free consultation with our San Francisco criminal defense lawyer to review your case and discuss your options. We have represented thousands of clients facing criminal charges and are ready to help you.
