Join the CDBA
Become a member of the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association and take advantage of free MCLE, listserv access, newsletters, networking events, and more.
Would you like to become more involved in the local defense community, exchange information with colleagues, and receive free monthly MCLE? Since 1981, the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association (CDBA) has been the bedrock institution for criminal defense practitioners in San Diego County — and we proudly continue that tradition today.
We invite you to become a member and take advantage of the many resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education programs that CDBA provides. Join us in strengthening the criminal defense community and ensuring the highest standards of representation for the accused.
Membership Benefits
Listserv Access
Perhaps the most valuable benefit — the listserv allows instant communication with hundreds of like-minded local attorneys on matters spanning everything from emergency coverage to brainstorming legal arguments. You’ll also receive important announcements regarding courthouse developments and CDBA events.
MCLE Meetings
Ten free MCLE presentations per year, held in-person and virtually at lunchtime. All meetings offer at least 1.0 credit hours on a criminal defense topic and often include specialty credits such as elimination of bias.
Newsletter
Six newsletters per year featuring columns about developments in state and federal courthouses, recent appellate decisions, a member spotlight, “kudos”, and grant opportunities.
Events
Opportunities to mix with fellow defense colleagues outside of court.
Awards & Judges Night
Our annual gathering includes awards for outstanding advocacy and presentations from judges in the San Diego County state and federal courthouses.
Membership Tiers
| Membership Type | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Regular | $100 |
| Sustaining (special recognition in newsletter & website) | $175 |
| Public Defense Attorney | $75 |
| 1st Year Lawyer | Free |
| Criminal Defense Investigator | $75 |
| Student (while in law school) | Free |
Membership runs January 1 – December 31.
Contact to Join
Email CDBA Executive Director Heather M. Boxeth at sandiego.cdba@gmail.com to get started.
Membership Benefits
Joining the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association connects you with a community of dedicated criminal defense attorneys throughout San Diego County.
Member Benefits
- MCLE Credits — Access to exclusive continuing legal education seminars
- Attorney Directory — Listing in the CDBA attorney directory
- Networking Events — Regular events to connect with the defense bar
- Advocacy — A unified voice for criminal defense in San Diego
- Resources — Access to member-only resources and information
Membership Types
The CDBA offers membership for criminal defense attorneys at all career stages. For current membership rates and to sign up, please contact our Executive Director.
Contact to Join
Executive Director: Heather M. Boxeth
Email us at contact to begin the membership process.