Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Vargas.
Hi Anthony, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Like most early 20-something’s, I was pretty stuck after I graduated college. I was interested in being a lawyer since I was a child, but I never thought that was realistic. I had never even met a lawyer before, and most people I knew didn’t go to college, so going to law school was not a practical option.
Until one day I didn’t care about what the practical option was and decided I was worth a risk. I worked 70-plus hours a week doing multiple jobs to save up money to take the LSAT and apply to law schools. When I finally got accepted into California Western School of Law in San Diego, I packed all my stuff into a couple of cardboard boxes and moved, sleeping on a couch for my first few months living in San Diego until I could afford a room.
Once I started law school, I quickly realized I had a talent for courtroom advocacy. In law school I was consistently recognized as one of the best trial advocates in the nation, spending hours every day perfecting my trial skills while being trained by some of the best trial attorneys in the state. I not only developed an immense skill set that has helped me to this day, but it allowed me to understand and embrace my calling as a trial attorney.
My skills as a trial attorney got me a position with the Public Defender’s Office in San Diego, where I represented thousands of people on misdemeanor and felony cases. I quickly developed a reputation as an aggressive and skilled trial attorney that routinely received dismissals and favorable outcomes for my clients.
After five years as a Public Defender, I started to develop my own vision of the type of firm I would like. I wanted a firm that allowed me to dedicate the time and resources necessary to each of my clients, to give them the peace of mind and comfort they need when facing the most terrifying and difficult moments of their lives. I started my own firm in September 2023 and have never looked back. I am extremely proud that my firm has been able to provide stellar representation for my clients, while also being able to dedicate the time necessary to each person to make sure they are educated, empowered, and at peace.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! I had so much doubt and obstacles on my journey. Before I even applied to law school I had friends and family not believe in me, slept on couches when I couldn’t afford a place to live when I first moved to San Diego, and worked 12-plus hour days to save money.
Once I started law school the challenges kept coming! Beyond the regular exams, the difficulty in obtaining such a high-level degree, along with passing the most difficult bar exam in the nation, I faced constant challenges. I worked while in law school too, and was very involved in trial advocacy, which was essentially like having another job.
Since becoming a lawyer I have dealt with the overwhelming case loads and stress of being a Public Defender, especially during COVID. During the lockdown, case loads were 4 times higher, and the strain it put on the entire justice system as a whole was incredible. Then I started my law firm as a first time business owner, which has presented an entirely new learning curve for me. The obstacles have fueled me to keep rising higher and perfecting my craft. It is a privilege to be able to fight for and represent others, and the obstacles I have faced only make me better at representing my clients.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I helped people facing criminal charges regain control of their lives. I have a solo practice where I specialize in criminal defense and trial. I have represented thousands of individuals on a multitude of state crimes, from misdemeanor to felony charges. I also teach practicing attorneys and law students trial skills with multiple organizations.
What sets me apart is how I emphasize bringing my clients peace while they are facing their charges. I have seen so many people go through this process and one of the most neglected parts of this practice is the clients themselves. So often attorneys get caught up in doing their job that they forget they have someone’s future in their hands. That can lead to a lack of communication, understanding, and security for people facing charges. I have always been blessed with the ability to be a calming presence for my clients, and I take their trust very seriously. I constantly put my clients and their needs first and foremost, and every decision I make is in consideration of my clients’ best interest.
Any big plans?
To keep playing my part in making my community a better place for everyone. I want this firm to grow and help others, not just facing charges, but going through other issues. I’d like to build a community of resources to help many people in need with help in everything from housing to educational resources.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.esquirevargas.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esq.vargas/
