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115 Reviews
20 Jul, 2024 by Anuhya mlh
Sam was a lifesaver as my lawyer. Right from the start, he was super professional and really knew his stuff. What I really appreciated was how he didn't pretend to have all the answers. If he was unsure, he'd reach out to other lawyers to get the best advice, which was awesome.
He was great at explaining all the legal jargon and made sure I understood what was going on. Plus, he was always a step ahead in the game, which paid off big time.
Most importantly, Sam was always there to keep me in the loop. It felt more like having a friend in the legal world who genuinely cared about my case. Honestly, if you're in a tough spot and need legal help, Sam's your guy. He's not just a great lawyer but a great person to have on your side.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Paras shah
Sam is an excellent attorney. He is deeply knowledgeable and handles every situation with professionalism. He was extremely responsive and you can tell he cares very much about his clients. I cannot recommend Sam enough.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Артур ка
I want to express my deep gratitude to Samuel for his work!
I would like to say about high professionalism and 100% knowledge of their business
A very experienced specialist in his field!
Support and availability at any time!
Even in such a difficult situation as mine, he coped 100%
Highly recommend 👍👍👍
a professional in his field!
Thank you very much again 🙏🙏🙏
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Greyson olson
In September 2023, my brother (25, from Arizona) got arrested (in San Francisco, California) after attempting to enter a conference within a community both of us grew up in and have been apart of since 2008. His car keys were knocked out of his suit pants during a tackle incident at the security clearance after he had trouble leaving when asked. According to my brother there was a misunderstanding of an email conflicting with him not being invited to the conference. After being tackled and handcuffed, he told the officers he had a concealed firearm in his vehicle, 5 minutes away, as he felt it was a danger for his keys to be off of his person. I was at this conference, and saw some of this happen live. My peers in our place of work were laughing, and making memes about this for months. There are many videos and pictures of the whole ordeal.
They put 6 charges on him that night, including "possession of armor piercing ammunition" and "high capacity magazines"
The SF media created a narrative off of the charges and the prosecution ran with it moving to deny bail within the first week, just as my family was even beginning to cope with this new reality. Public consensus of the incident caused a rift in the community between those who knew him for years prior and know he would never do what was being inferred by the media, and those who didn't know him and were led to believe it. Our family used this as fuel to ensure we stuck with this case mentally and financially, no matter how hard it felt and how much of an uphill battle it was at times.
We went through two public defenders, and another private attorney before landing on Nechay Law in late March 2024. Nechay tried many angles of defense for this non violent gun storage charge. All previous charges except "having a concealed firearm in a vehicle" were wiped, and the remaining was moved to a misdemeanor which a change of plea got him out of jail after 1 year, 4 days.
The prosecution was going for conviction on the felony level to get him 6 years, based upon the narrative they shaped up. Nechay (even after 7 months of other attorneys handling the case) was able to reverse and put to rest the previously life ruining, retribution hungry narrative.
The best scenario out of all of this is he will be getting more familial attention and help to deal with previous traumas such as a car crash that totaled his very expensive car, two home break-ins, and his business faltering. Rebuilding for him will be a hard but rewarding journey, and Nechay has allowed that second chance of the sanctity of life to happen through her expertise. I cannot recommend enough. Our family is eternally grateful for Valery and her firm's service.
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05 Sep, 2024 by I.a. huxley
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Kristina delevi
I can't recommend Valery Nechay enough as an attorney. Her knowledge in so many areas of the law is truly impressive. She went above and beyond to make sure every detail was covered, and I always felt supported and informed throughout the whole legal process. Even with her busy schedule, Valery always found time to answer my questions, no matter how small. She made me feel like I was in the hands of someone who genuinely cares and knows her stuff. Valery is not just knowledgeable and dedicated, but also incredibly compassionate. I'm so grateful for everything she did for me.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Lexi
Wow, I truly cannot thank Rebecca enough. My husband had an old case from 2015 that we both thought was resolved. We found out recently that it was not when we tried to hire an expungement lawyer. The expungement lawyer told us he couldn’t help because the case was on going. I googled lawyers who would able to help for his specific situation and came across Rebecca. She called me back within minutes. Before I even gave her a red cent she was already looking into the case and giving me advice on what she could do if I hired her. The second I sent her payment she was making phone calls. Within 24hrs she spoke to the clerk, probation officer, district attorney, the clerk again, the judge, and got the case dismissed. ALL WITHIN 24 HOURS. Looks like my first born child’s name will be Rebecca. I can’t thank her enough, I am eternally grateful.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Greyson olson
In September 2023, my brother (25, from Arizona) got arrested (in San Francisco, California) after attempting to enter a conference within a community both of us grew up in and have been apart of since 2008. His car keys were knocked out of his suit pants during a tackle incident at the security clearance after he had trouble leaving when asked. According to my brother there was a misunderstanding of an email conflicting with him not being invited to the conference. After being tackled and handcuffed, he told the officers he had a concealed firearm in his vehicle, 5 minutes away, as he felt it was a danger for his keys to be off of his person. I was at this conference, and saw some of this happen live. My peers in our place of work were laughing, and making memes about this for months. There are many videos and pictures of the whole ordeal.
They put 6 charges on him that night, including "possession of armor piercing ammunition" and "high capacity magazines"
The SF media created a narrative off of the charges and the prosecution ran with it moving to deny bail within the first week, just as my family was even beginning to cope with this new reality. Public consensus of the incident caused a rift in the community between those who knew him for years prior and know he would never do what was being inferred by the media, and those who didn't know him and were led to believe it. Our family used this as fuel to ensure we stuck with this case mentally and financially, no matter how hard it felt and how much of an uphill battle it was at times.
We went through two public defenders, and another private attorney before landing on Nechay Law in late March 2024. Nechay tried many angles of defense for this non violent gun storage charge. All previous charges except "having a concealed firearm in a vehicle" were wiped, and the remaining was moved to a misdemeanor which a change of plea got him out of jail after 1 year, 4 days.
The prosecution was going for conviction on the felony level to get him 6 years, based upon the narrative they shaped up. Nechay (even after 7 months of other attorneys handling the case) was able to reverse and put to rest the previously life ruining, retribution hungry narrative.
The best scenario out of all of this is he will be getting more familial attention and help to deal with previous traumas such as a car crash that totaled his very expensive car, two home break-ins, and his business faltering. Rebuilding for him will be a hard but rewarding journey, and Nechay has allowed that second chance of the sanctity of life to happen through her expertise. I cannot recommend enough. Our family is eternally grateful for Valery and her firm's service.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by I.a. huxley
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Greyson olson
In September 2023, my brother (25, from Arizona) got arrested (in San Francisco, California) after attempting to enter a conference within a community both of us grew up in and have been apart of since 2008. His car keys were knocked out of his suit pants during a tackle incident at the security clearance after he had trouble leaving when asked. According to my brother there was a misunderstanding of an email conflicting with him not being invited to the conference. After being tackled and handcuffed, he told the officers he had a concealed firearm in his vehicle, 5 minutes away, as he felt it was a danger for his keys to be off of his person. I was at this conference, and saw some of this happen live. My peers in our place of work were laughing, and making memes about this for months. There are many videos and pictures of the whole ordeal.
They put 6 charges on him that night, including "possession of armor piercing ammunition" and "high capacity magazines"
The SF media created a narrative off of the charges and the prosecution ran with it moving to deny bail within the first week, just as my family was even beginning to cope with this new reality. Public consensus of the incident caused a rift in the community between those who knew him for years prior and know he would never do what was being inferred by the media, and those who didn't know him and were led to believe it. Our family used this as fuel to ensure we stuck with this case mentally and financially, no matter how hard it felt and how much of an uphill battle it was at times.
We went through two public defenders, and another private attorney before landing on Nechay Law in late March 2024. Nechay tried many angles of defense for this non violent gun storage charge. All previous charges except "having a concealed firearm in a vehicle" were wiped, and the remaining was moved to a misdemeanor which a change of plea got him out of jail after 1 year, 4 days.
The prosecution was going for conviction on the felony level to get him 6 years, based upon the narrative they shaped up. Nechay (even after 7 months of other attorneys handling the case) was able to reverse and put to rest the previously life ruining, retribution hungry narrative.
The best scenario out of all of this is he will be getting more familial attention and help to deal with previous traumas such as a car crash that totaled his very expensive car, two home break-ins, and his business faltering. Rebuilding for him will be a hard but rewarding journey, and Nechay has allowed that second chance of the sanctity of life to happen through her expertise. I cannot recommend enough. Our family is eternally grateful for Valery and her firm's service.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by I.a. huxley
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Kristina delevi
I can't recommend Valery Nechay enough as an attorney. Her knowledge in so many areas of the law is truly impressive. She went above and beyond to make sure every detail was covered, and I always felt supported and informed throughout the whole legal process. Even with her busy schedule, Valery always found time to answer my questions, no matter how small. She made me feel like I was in the hands of someone who genuinely cares and knows her stuff. Valery is not just knowledgeable and dedicated, but also incredibly compassionate. I'm so grateful for everything she did for me.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Greyson olson
In September 2023, my brother (25, from Arizona) got arrested (in San Francisco, California) after attempting to enter a conference within a community both of us grew up in and have been apart of since 2008. His car keys were knocked out of his suit pants during a tackle incident at the security clearance after he had trouble leaving when asked. According to my brother there was a misunderstanding of an email conflicting with him not being invited to the conference. After being tackled and handcuffed, he told the officers he had a concealed firearm in his vehicle, 5 minutes away, as he felt it was a danger for his keys to be off of his person. I was at this conference, and saw some of this happen live. My peers in our place of work were laughing, and making memes about this for months. There are many videos and pictures of the whole ordeal.
They put 6 charges on him that night, including "possession of armor piercing ammunition" and "high capacity magazines"
The SF media created a narrative off of the charges and the prosecution ran with it moving to deny bail within the first week, just as my family was even beginning to cope with this new reality. Public consensus of the incident caused a rift in the community between those who knew him for years prior and know he would never do what was being inferred by the media, and those who didn't know him and were led to believe it. Our family used this as fuel to ensure we stuck with this case mentally and financially, no matter how hard it felt and how much of an uphill battle it was at times.
We went through two public defenders, and another private attorney before landing on Nechay Law in late March 2024. Nechay tried many angles of defense for this non violent gun storage charge. All previous charges except "having a concealed firearm in a vehicle" were wiped, and the remaining was moved to a misdemeanor which a change of plea got him out of jail after 1 year, 4 days.
The prosecution was going for conviction on the felony level to get him 6 years, based upon the narrative they shaped up. Nechay (even after 7 months of other attorneys handling the case) was able to reverse and put to rest the previously life ruining, retribution hungry narrative.
The best scenario out of all of this is he will be getting more familial attention and help to deal with previous traumas such as a car crash that totaled his very expensive car, two home break-ins, and his business faltering. Rebuilding for him will be a hard but rewarding journey, and Nechay has allowed that second chance of the sanctity of life to happen through her expertise. I cannot recommend enough. Our family is eternally grateful for Valery and her firm's service.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by I.a. huxley
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Kristina delevi
I can't recommend Valery Nechay enough as an attorney. Her knowledge in so many areas of the law is truly impressive. She went above and beyond to make sure every detail was covered, and I always felt supported and informed throughout the whole legal process. Even with her busy schedule, Valery always found time to answer my questions, no matter how small. She made me feel like I was in the hands of someone who genuinely cares and knows her stuff. Valery is not just knowledgeable and dedicated, but also incredibly compassionate. I'm so grateful for everything she did for me.
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Micah potts
Holy cow these guys are good! They cover EVERY detail, are incredibly transparent and they could make things easier! They also really support and encourage you during a time that might feel shameful, they make you feel the opposite. THESE ARE THE GUYS YOU WANT!
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25 May, 2024 by John lehrack
I’m so glad I chose to work with these guys. Total commitment and they sure do know what they are doing! Thank you, Alan and John
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19 Oct, 2023 by Kathleen monroe
I put myself through school twice. I came out of school with a master's degree in 2003, while also having a bachelor's from 1989. I graduated at the top of my class in both instances, but it put me into a lot of debt, and the entry offers I got (with TONS of experience) out of the master's program were pitiful for someone living in SF. So I had to hang out my own shingle and, being a small business, over the last many years it really took a toll with school debt and business debt. Bankruptcy is scary but John and Allan made it really easy, walked me through all the options, and have helped me navigate Chapter 13 beautifully. They are incredibly attentive and stay with you through the course of the duration of your bankruptcy. Great service!
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05 May, 2024 by Jay day
I really felt heard after speaking to Alan and Chris and experience speaks volumes. Appreciate you guys.
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01 May, 2024 by Sheikh israil
Couldn’t be more happy with the legal service I received from Adamson Ahdoot.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Francisco tembo
Thank you to Mr. Alan, Mr. Arash, Mrs. Maria, Mrs. Genesis, Mrs. Khadidja, and the entire firm of admson ahdoot for really going to bat for me, trusted them and they came for me. A well established firm who believes in their clients. Thank you for long hours that was put in and quick response. Thank you.🙏🏿
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28 Jan, 2024 by Szq g
I spoke to a social worker in regards to the stability of their home life when they aren't with me. Being concerned about my daughter, and the inconsistency of her lifestyle which concerned me quite a bit whenever she would take the kids or present a different new boyfriend/place to stay.. (for the most part I have raised them/they lived w/me) I began to get concerned about how they were being affected by her irresponsibility as a parent. Later to find out that they were not attending school, and my oldest grandson taking on the babysitter role and would get in trouble for his little brother in which he became a totally different kid (quite angry about his whole environmen) he was told to lie to me if I asked him questions. My grandson started to call me when his mom would sleep/ or wasn't home and he would tell me things. I convinced my daughter to let me take them to live with me during the week so I can enroll them back in school and fix the inconsistency again time passed and they were safe with me; She started telling me things when she didn't get her way, trying to manipulate saying she was taking the kids from me (*if I talked to her about lying, and being irresponsible etc...) I got to the point that I needed to help these kids before she really screwed them upore and swore to look; nyo things and if she ever got into trouble shoplifting etc... I would use it to my advantage. The social worker referred me to Legal services for children and I started to work on getting guardianship and soon enough she went to jail. They were great, they helped me so much with everything including emergency paperwrk for serving her in jail for restraining order etc .. they came to my home to talk to the kids and I. They made it smooth like butter explaining everything!!! So glad she recommended this place. Perfect for kids who eed help!!!
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15 Jun, 2023 by Rob fordyce
Stebner,Gertler,Guadagni and Kawamato were so incredibly kind and helpful with my and my mother's case.
Deena Zacharin was my defense attorney.
She was compassionate with my case but really tough when it mattered during the deposition. I felt supported and was well informed.
Karman M. Guadagni was diligent with all of the details and correspondence concerning the case as well as a pleasure to work with. .
Kathryn Stebner is a gifted lawyer who really cares about people and standing up for cases that matter.
It was an honor to have her represent my family and we are grateful to her and her staff.
Sincerely,
Robert D. Fordyce
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27 Jun, 2022 by Maria rokas
Dealing with the death of a loved one is hard, dealing with an untimely death that necessitates litigation is beyond comprehension when you're grieving, but it's sometimes the choice you need to make.
Our family had no experience with lawsuits and that's daunting. Kathryn, Karman and their entire team gently guided us through every step of the process. Everything was explained in a thorough but easy to understand way, making us feel cared for and confident in their expertise. All decisions were ours to make; at no point did we feel pressured to do anything that made us uncomfortable.
We can't recommend Stebner, Gertler, Guadagni and Kawamoto highly enough, nor can we imagine where we would be if we had not been referred to them. In the end, their hard work led to what we felt was a just and fair settlement.
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5.0
1 Reviews
5.0
7 Reviews
11 Feb, 2024 by Alex ferbrache
Victor helped my mom win a personal injury settlement against a major retail chain. I am incredibly grateful for his outstanding legal support and guidance throughout the process. His diligence and attention to detail in gathering information about the incident both from my mom and the relevant medical professionals and organizations was instrumental in the favorable settlement he achieved on her behalf. We'd highly recommend working with Victor.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Beverly li
Victor was a tremendous help. After my car accident, I initially felt overwhelmed and reluctant to deal with anything related to the incident, anticipating it to be a hassle. However, once I mustered up the confidence to reach out to Victor and put in some effort, it became evident that he would be able to assist me—and he truly did. Although the process was somewhat lengthy, Victor consistently excelled in providing timely updates throughout the case. I definitely would recommend Victor to anyone who needs him.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Alvin lee
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Victor and his team. They truly went above and beyond to help me with a case that was far from easy to prove. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable.
From the initial consultation, Victor and his team took the time to thoroughly understand the complexities of my situation. They provided me with clear guidance on the potential outcomes and a realistic assessment of my situation, which helped me make informed decisions throughout the process.
What impressed me the most was their tireless advocacy on my behalf. Victor and his team left no stone unturned, conducted meticulous research, and navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse. They handled everything with determination and professionalism, even when all seem hopeless.
I'm thrilled to say that their hard work paid off, and I received compensation that I never thought possible. This outcome was a testament to Victor and his team's expertise and their ability to handle challenging cases.
Moreover, the communication throughout the entire process was exceptional. They kept me informed at every step, promptly answered my questions, and eased my anxieties. I felt supported and empowered throughout the journey.
If you're in need of legal representation and are facing a complex or challenging situation, I wholeheartedly recommend Victor. They are a dedicated team of legal experts who will fight with passion, skill, and unwavering commitment.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Luis
Sam Geller is truly a one of a kind lawyer. My gut feeling was to go with him out of the countless lawyers I had consulted with. He was very informative and eased me through fighting a case and was able to help me to reduce felony charges to misdeameanor after completion of probation even after considering the fact I had priors. He is very good with his practice as long as you listen to what he tells you to do. Would highly recommend and you are getting your money’s worth. Thanks again Mr. Geller!!!
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20 Jul, 2024 by Anuhya mlh
Sam was a lifesaver as my lawyer. Right from the start, he was super professional and really knew his stuff. What I really appreciated was how he didn't pretend to have all the answers. If he was unsure, he'd reach out to other lawyers to get the best advice, which was awesome.
He was great at explaining all the legal jargon and made sure I understood what was going on. Plus, he was always a step ahead in the game, which paid off big time.
Most importantly, Sam was always there to keep me in the loop. It felt more like having a friend in the legal world who genuinely cared about my case. Honestly, if you're in a tough spot and need legal help, Sam's your guy. He's not just a great lawyer but a great person to have on your side.
Read more
20 Jul, 2024 by Paras shah
Sam is an excellent attorney. He is deeply knowledgeable and handles every situation with professionalism. He was extremely responsive and you can tell he cares very much about his clients. I cannot recommend Sam enough.
Read more
20 Jul, 2024 by Anuhya mlh
Sam was a lifesaver as my lawyer. Right from the start, he was super professional and really knew his stuff. What I really appreciated was how he didn't pretend to have all the answers. If he was unsure, he'd reach out to other lawyers to get the best advice, which was awesome.
He was great at explaining all the legal jargon and made sure I understood what was going on. Plus, he was always a step ahead in the game, which paid off big time.
Most importantly, Sam was always there to keep me in the loop. It felt more like having a friend in the legal world who genuinely cared about my case. Honestly, if you're in a tough spot and need legal help, Sam's your guy. He's not just a great lawyer but a great person to have on your side.
Read more
20 Jul, 2024 by Paras shah
Sam is an excellent attorney. He is deeply knowledgeable and handles every situation with professionalism. He was extremely responsive and you can tell he cares very much about his clients. I cannot recommend Sam enough.
Read more
20 Jul, 2024 by Артур ка
I want to express my deep gratitude to Samuel for his work!
I would like to say about high professionalism and 100% knowledge of their business
A very experienced specialist in his field!
Support and availability at any time!
Even in such a difficult situation as mine, he coped 100%
Highly recommend 👍👍👍
a professional in his field!
Thank you very much again 🙏🙏🙏
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Greyson olson
In September 2023, my brother (25, from Arizona) got arrested (in San Francisco, California) after attempting to enter a conference within a community both of us grew up in and have been apart of since 2008. His car keys were knocked out of his suit pants during a tackle incident at the security clearance after he had trouble leaving when asked. According to my brother there was a misunderstanding of an email conflicting with him not being invited to the conference. After being tackled and handcuffed, he told the officers he had a concealed firearm in his vehicle, 5 minutes away, as he felt it was a danger for his keys to be off of his person. I was at this conference, and saw some of this happen live. My peers in our place of work were laughing, and making memes about this for months. There are many videos and pictures of the whole ordeal.
They put 6 charges on him that night, including "possession of armor piercing ammunition" and "high capacity magazines"
The SF media created a narrative off of the charges and the prosecution ran with it moving to deny bail within the first week, just as my family was even beginning to cope with this new reality. Public consensus of the incident caused a rift in the community between those who knew him for years prior and know he would never do what was being inferred by the media, and those who didn't know him and were led to believe it. Our family used this as fuel to ensure we stuck with this case mentally and financially, no matter how hard it felt and how much of an uphill battle it was at times.
We went through two public defenders, and another private attorney before landing on Nechay Law in late March 2024. Nechay tried many angles of defense for this non violent gun storage charge. All previous charges except "having a concealed firearm in a vehicle" were wiped, and the remaining was moved to a misdemeanor which a change of plea got him out of jail after 1 year, 4 days.
The prosecution was going for conviction on the felony level to get him 6 years, based upon the narrative they shaped up. Nechay (even after 7 months of other attorneys handling the case) was able to reverse and put to rest the previously life ruining, retribution hungry narrative.
The best scenario out of all of this is he will be getting more familial attention and help to deal with previous traumas such as a car crash that totaled his very expensive car, two home break-ins, and his business faltering. Rebuilding for him will be a hard but rewarding journey, and Nechay has allowed that second chance of the sanctity of life to happen through her expertise. I cannot recommend enough. Our family is eternally grateful for Valery and her firm's service.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by I.a. huxley
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Kristina delevi
I can't recommend Valery Nechay enough as an attorney. Her knowledge in so many areas of the law is truly impressive. She went above and beyond to make sure every detail was covered, and I always felt supported and informed throughout the whole legal process. Even with her busy schedule, Valery always found time to answer my questions, no matter how small. She made me feel like I was in the hands of someone who genuinely cares and knows her stuff. Valery is not just knowledgeable and dedicated, but also incredibly compassionate. I'm so grateful for everything she did for me.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Carole isaacs
One day in my mail I found a letter from my landlords attorney telling me my landlord had filed a petition with the San Francisco Rent Board to raise our rent. My roommate and I immediately went to the Tenants Union for counseling. We met Jason Wolford who told us we had a good case, but should hire an attorney to represent us at the hearing. Jason provided us with a fairly long lists of attorney. We reviewed the list and determined that Wolford Wayne was the best fit for our situation.
Megan Johnson, an associate at Wolford Wayne, was the person Jason recommended. Megan represented tenants in buyout negotiations, affirmative wrongful eviction cases and Rent Board cases. We met with Megan in person and we were impressed with her knowledge of our case. Megan felt our landlord’s case was weak and once they saw the rebuttal she would submit to the Rent Board they may withdraw the Petition to raise our rent. She clearly explained to us what information we needed to provide her to do her best in defending us at the Rent Board hearing. For various reasons that we do not understand and were out of our control the Rent Board took 6 months to schedule our hearing. During this time Megan was in touch with both us and the rent board working to facilitate a speedy hearing and to discuss with us the various documents the landlord provided as evidence why our rent should be raised.
In the end, the landlord withdrew their petition to raise our rent 3 days before the scheduled Rent Board hearing. This was frustrating, but all is well that ends well. Thanks to Megan Johnson we are now prepared to document our comings and goings and other information the landlord would twist to try and prove that we no longer lived in our apartment.
All around we could not ask for a more knowledgeable, goal oriented attorney who communicated with us in a timely manner in a way we could always understand. Megan was perfect! There is nothing I would ask her to do differently and without hesitation I would recommend her to anyone having the unfortunate experience of having to deal with the San Francisco Rent Board.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Rochelle willox
Jason helped me in the hardest situation of my life. He and his staff, especially Melinda are kind, compassionate, and honest. He is a good guy and trustworthy attorney.
I highly recommend them.
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21 Nov, 2023 by Emily gu
i had two phone consultations with Megan Johnson who was great! Very friendly, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. she made me feel a lot more comfortable about a stressful time, and helped me decide the best plan to proceed with my issue.
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10 May, 2024 by Kitana 89 (kitana89)
GJEL boasts a 99% success rate. They have various attorneys that have graduated from prestigious universities and are here to help you. They offer free consultations so you can decide for yourself if they are the right personal injury law firm for you. They also advertise that they take their cases on a contingency basis (pay only if they win)!
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08 May, 2024 by Sheks gabby
After my car accident, I didn't know where to turn. GJEL Accident Attorneys made the whole legal process so much easier. Their personal injury team was amazing – knowledgeable, always kept me informed, and really fought for me. I'm so glad I chose them, and I'd recommend them to anyone needing help after an injury.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Shane boulds
Very happy with the advise I got from Gjel - They're top notch-very trustworthy. I would hire them again in an instant.
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26 Nov, 2023 by Joanneh nagler
The first things I must say about Lindsay is that he is generous of heart and wise. He offered me direct and strong guidance, was open to listening to my concerns, but most importantly, expertly explained the legal ins and outs (and potential costs) of the situation should I take it further. Let me be more specific: I had a book agent who lied and misrepresented submissions to editors, hid pertinent information, then tried to damage my reputation when I caught her in falsehoods. Lindsay helped me understand the pieces of the situation which are actionable, and which ones I need to leave behind me. His advice is clear, well-thought-out, and founded upon a practical approach to the law. He absolutely helped me clarify what I can do versus what direction I really want to take. I recommend him highly and without reservation.
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13 Oct, 2023 by J c
Lindsay gave me sound advice while I was making a short film. He was strikingly down to earth, genuinely interested in understanding my specific concerns and figuring out with me the right path forward. I walked away feeling confident about how to proceed forward with my production. I'd highly recommend him for any legal counsel in regards to entertainment, in my case, filmmaking.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Maryam cheema
I had many questions that needed to be addressed in regards to my business formation and Lindsay was able to answer each and every question with detail. I would definitely recommend him!
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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
14 Reviews
06 Aug, 2024 by Trigger gated
When you need legal representation do yourself a favor and call Aaron Bortel. Aaron is a lifesaver. He will guide you through a difficult and challenging process and get you the results you're looking for. I was scared to death when I got pulled over for a DUI charge and Aaron helped steady me up and keep me glued together. The process has been time consuming but he represented me and I didn't really have to go to court. Follow his exact instructions and stay positive and you'll make it through the difficult times. Thank you Aaron for your courtesy and professionalism I appreciate it more than I can explain! -Blake R. Gates
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10 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo martinez
Aaron was able to help me with my second DUI case in San Francisco. He’s very knowledgeable and knows people in the court system. I ended up taking a Plea Deal that resulted in the best possible outcome. Did not serve jail time, and paid less for the second DUI than my wet reckless. He also worked diligently with the DMV and fought to not get an automatic two year suspension on my license. Luckily I am able to get a restricted license. Aaron was always responsive and directly contacted me to handle anything that needed to be completed. He also had the best price out of any lawyer I spoke to and was able to work with me financially. He made the process and the experience of a second DUI way less stressful! Definitely recommend!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Sandeep dasila
First of all with due respect I want to Thanks to Mr Aaron Bortel Sir.
I have been arrested in San Francisco county for DUI and speeding charges both at the same time. This is was my first offense and i was so scared what should i do next , seems like everything is finished. After talking to many law offices i was unsatisfied. Luckily i got Mr Aaron Bortel law firm and we talked every single details about my arrest on phone call and i was so confident to hand my case to Mr Bortel sir. As i am a CDL holder he ensure me that he will help me to drive for long time with Class A and i was driving with CDL for 7 months after my arrest. Finally helped in dropping charges to reckless driving from DUI ( BAC 0.14) Unexpected results 💯
Thank you so much Sir.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Trigger gated
When you need legal representation do yourself a favor and call Aaron Bortel. Aaron is a lifesaver. He will guide you through a difficult and challenging process and get you the results you're looking for. I was scared to death when I got pulled over for a DUI charge and Aaron helped steady me up and keep me glued together. The process has been time consuming but he represented me and I didn't really have to go to court. Follow his exact instructions and stay positive and you'll make it through the difficult times. Thank you Aaron for your courtesy and professionalism I appreciate it more than I can explain! -Blake R. Gates
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10 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo martinez
Aaron was able to help me with my second DUI case in San Francisco. He’s very knowledgeable and knows people in the court system. I ended up taking a Plea Deal that resulted in the best possible outcome. Did not serve jail time, and paid less for the second DUI than my wet reckless. He also worked diligently with the DMV and fought to not get an automatic two year suspension on my license. Luckily I am able to get a restricted license. Aaron was always responsive and directly contacted me to handle anything that needed to be completed. He also had the best price out of any lawyer I spoke to and was able to work with me financially. He made the process and the experience of a second DUI way less stressful! Definitely recommend!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Got my 3rd DUI within 10 years with felony child engagement in Santa Clara county. Blew a .40 and refused the blood draw. Accident with no injuries.
William was there from start to finish handing every step of the case guiding me through my options and answering all of my questions
The DA was initially looking for multiple year jail sentence, but William was able to negotiate a plea bargain with no jail (90 days home arrest but able to work), 18 month DUI program and probation thereafter. I had to wear a SCRAM ankle monitor for about 1 year during the pre trial phase and for the 90 day home arrest. Felony charge was dropped down to a misdemeanor and I was able to save my professional license.
William is a life saver and I would highly recommend him. Considering my arrest was in one the most aggressive counties in California and that I was a multiple offender, I was certain jail time was in the cards, but William came though with awesome results.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Very professional and efficient! The case was approved within one hour of the court session! It took less than two years from the filing of the case to its approval!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Yue
I arrived in the United States in 2019. I failed to pass the interview in 2021. I found Lawyer Wang. After waiting for a long time, I finally went to court on June 4, 2024 and passed the interview. During this period, Lawyer Wang interviewed me three times. The communication also clearly pointed out how to respond to the judge’s questions when going to court. On the day of going to court, 15 minutes after asking questions, the judge approved my case and thanked Lawyer Wang again.
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29 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Our case was finally successfully handled today thanks to Lawyer Wang's efforts. During this period, I could feel Lawyer Wang's high professionalism and strong sense of responsibility. He is a very trustworthy lawyer, and I would like to thank him very much!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Jonah Chew for anyone in need of outstanding legal representation. Jonah did an incredible job managing a complex case, reducing what started as 11 felony counts down to a single, immigration-safe count with no jail time and minimal probation.
After five years of fighting this case, Jonah was able to settle it amicably, delivering a result far beyond what I could have hoped for. Not only did he reduce the charges, but there’s also a possibility he may be able to reduce the conviction to a misdemeanor once probation is complete. His dedication and persistence throughout the entire process were remarkable.
Jonah is highly regarded in court, always punctual, and never misses a beat. He is consistently well-prepared and respected by judges and legal professionals alike. His attention to detail and unwavering commitment to his clients set him apart. I’m incredibly grateful for his hard work, professionalism, and genuine care in ensuring the best possible outcome for me. I am blessed to not just call him my lawyer, but also my friend.
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18 May, 2024 by Neal
Jonah was great to work with! He was always there when I needed him and took a very professional and personal approach to my situation. He is smart and knows the ins and outs of the legal system. I would highly recommend him!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I never had any interactions with the law in my life and after an unfortunate incident everything was scary and stressful. Jonah helped to reduce the stress and patiently explained things to me and answered my questions, as I was clueless about how the justice system works. He was very responsive throughout the multi-year process and was willing to jump on a phone call to talk things over. Jonah is compassionate yet explains things how they are without sugarcoating. He's been in the Bay Area judicial system for a long while and understands well how it works. Case was terminated and I'm back to the happy life thanks to Jonah.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Nick ardanuy
Naomi Chung was a tremendous help. She is a fighter for her clients and works to get the best outcome out of your situation/case. She's honest, hard working, and communicative. I definitely recommend her to anyone needing an Lawyer/Attorney.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Sergio herrera
Naomi Chung was assigned to my family as an attorney when our case could not be represented by a public attorney. We were a bit nervous because we did not know what to expect but Naomi was the complete opposite of someone to worry about, she was not only very engaged and personable, explaining all the details and processes of the court but also very interested in helping our family. Naomi handled everything with us personally, we never spoke through other people in the office, she gave us personal attention.
Our case was nothing to take lightly but her legal prowess and due diligence paid off by trusting her to help us.
I would highly recommend Naomi Chung and her firm Hickey & Chung to anyone in need of a defense attorney.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Kerisimasi reynolds
Brendan is the best, hands down. His professionalism, communication, and comprehensive approach is unmatched. He is intelligent, compassionate and approachable. I am so grateful for him and his team. I couldn't recommend Brendan Hickey more!!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
If you feel like you’ve made the worst decision ever, then make the best one and call Shawn. It took a year for my situation to get figured out but he was there any time I got something scary in the mail or needed to talk through it again so I could stop being anxious and down on myself. Shawn was able to provide support and a safe space through an incredibly intimidating extended period of time. On top of that, he’s an outstanding defense attorney! My situation was not great and in the end it was less than I ever imagined possible. I will absolutely recommend him to anyone I know in the future that finds themselves in this unfortunate situation.
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31 May, 2024 by Max
Shawn was amazing, he kept me updated throughout the case and I can tell that he really cares about his clients. In one of my darkest moments, he made me feel comfortable and I really appreciate all his hard work.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Shawn was able to help me through a very challenging time in my life and represented me with passion and grace that I quite honestly didn’t deserve. He single handedly helped me escape what could have been a much worse outcome and continues to support me to this day. I could not have asked for a better lawyer and if anyone has a question about this man’s integrity and ability to help you please take this review as truth. Throughout my process Shawn was kind, clear and explained everything about this process which was super helpful, especially because I have never gone through anything like this.
You might read this and think that this is embellished; it is not. I truly admire this man’s work and will never forget what he did for me. Thank you Shawn!!!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Antonio
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Gene
I was thoroughly impressed by Mr. Gasner's expertise and professionalism while handling my case. I originally contacted him for a consultation to see if you thought he would be able to seal an arrest that was on my record. After the consultation, I was impressed with how knowledgeable he was regarding my case and decided to hire him. He successfully had my arrest sealed even after previous lawyers had failed in court. He was honest and transparent about what the timeline would be and what objections if any the DA would have. I highly recommend him!
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27 May, 2024 by John
Adam was recommended to me from a friend when I got into some legal troubles with the state of CA. At 28 years old my life turned upside down, uncertainty and doubt of how my future would turn out was not favorable. But to turn a bad situation better Adam's extensive knowledge and experience help break down the best options I had. His honesty helped save me time and money from going to a trial. That would have been more costly and had an more unfavorable outcome. Ultimately, with Adams guidance I took the plea bargain, since it seem like the best option for my future. Fast forward to a decade later because of Adams knowledge and the previous plea bargain I was able to expunge my criminal record. That second chance lift a lot of burden off my shoulder and made me feel like a new person able to pursue more employment opportunities and provide a better quality of living for my family.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I was in a desperate situation when a friend recommended Constantine to handle my divorce. Six months ago, I walked into his law firm emotionally destroyed. Constantine was not only kind but also instilled hope in me. He guided me through the divorce process with patience, helping me to file for divorce and navigate every step of the process. Despite my ex-husband's lack of cooperation, Constantine's professionalism and persistence led to our initial agreement. Throughout the proceedings, he kept me informed, providing updates promptly at each step. I'm profoundly grateful for Constantine Zhukovsky's work and highly recommend him as a true advocate who genuinely cares.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Constantine Zhukovsky as one of the best family law attorneys in the San Francisco Bay Area. I had a very long, painful, and ugly divorce with my abusive ex with a Restraining order and a minor child on my hands. At first, I had a different attorney and felt so confused and helpless, and the divorce proceedings were going south. When I met Constantine he spent hours explaining my rights, laws, and proceedings. The most important part, he laid out the strategies for my case and let me think about it before I made any decision. From the start, I got the support and clarity I needed. I knew what would happen next, and what I should expect from each hearing. It was through divorce, but I am very happy I had Constantine on my side. I felt safe and protected. The proceedings were going very slow: lots of rescheduling from the opposing side, attorney substitutions, and the most annoying was that if you think you have an agreement with the opposing side, it doesn’t mean anything unless it is all put into paper and signed. My ex played this game a dozen times, and it cost both of us lots of money and time. Finally, after the years of divorce, I can put it all behind me, and I am very grateful to Constantine for his hard work and support.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Sandy
While helping my brother with his divorce, I attended several meetings with Constantine and was very impressed with how he conducted his business. He took a no nonsense approach towards obtaining a full understanding of relevant financial and family situations. This allowed him to make a fair and timely settlement offer that aligned with guidance provided by California court systems. We had lots of questions and he was able to address them all and provide a thorough explanation behind each of his recommendations.
My brother’s wife took a much more aggressive approach, asking for everything and in my opinion stretched the truth. This backfired in court as Constantine was able to back up his case with solid facts. … and judges rule on facts not fantasy. My brother left court happy that day, the same can’t be said about his soon to be ex-wife.
Divorce can be a very frustrating and draining process. Constantine was able to provide my brother with the hope and confidence that he was not going to lose the shirt off of his back. Constantine proved to be worthy of that confidence by bringing the divorce to a fair and timely conclusion.
I wish you the best of luck, but then again with Constantine on your side you don’t need luck.
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11 Jun, 2021 by Anna
I was a client of Svetlana. I highly recommend her as a very knowledgeable and highly professional lawyer. Svetlana is the best! She is very integrity, respectful, confident in her work, and a fantastic personality! Moreover, she is compassionate to you as the client and tries to do everything that she can. Most importantly, Svetlana has a big heart. I was fortunate that life brought me precisely to her. I feel very grateful and delighted with all she, as my lawyer, has done for me. If I could give Svetlana 10 stars or even more, I did it without any doubts!
Thank Svetlana and her team: Elena and Vitaliy.
YOU ARE THE BEST!!!
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13 Oct, 2020 by Vitalii
I'm a client of Svetlana Shirinova. She's very responsive and a real professional. Not only she has given really useful consultation with lots of advice but also hasn't charged a fortune for that. Not only she has helped us to avoid anything serious (believe me, I was frightened about potential consequences), but also provided extra information and spent extra effort which I was not even expecting. I'll definitely stay as her client and ask her first. This review is the smallest I can do to help her back.
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12 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Svetlana respects her clients, listens to them, and responds ASAP (day or night). She was amazingly helpful with many questions and situations that both my husband and I experienced. Svetlana responded right away, explained the circumstances thoroughly, and recommended the possible plan of action.
It was so invaluable to have her support, understand the situations from different viewpoints, and come up with the ideas on how to deal with the circumstances.
Svetlana is very knowledgeable and confident professional and a very pleasant person to work with. I highly recommend her for any questions or issues that may arise.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Marianne
Matt Sullivan represented me on a case recently. He was very responsive, organized, and on point. Matt made the process easy for me, with quick responses that actually made sense. Matt was very efficient and went the full distance with my case. One thing that impressed me was Matt’s attitude. He was very positive and kept me updated on my case. Matt also understood my situation and valued my thoughts and the things I had to say. He’s definitely a person you want on your side.
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09 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Sullivan came highly recommended from a friend and he gave me over an hour of very helpful, specific advice and answered a ton of questions I had during a free consultation and some follow up emails.
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20 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I am very satisfied with my experience with Matt Sullivan. It took him 4 1/2 years to get my case dismissed. He worked so hard for so long that I feel like I underpaid for his outstanding efforts! Aside from the outstanding results, working with Matt is a pleasure. He explained everything that was going on, the various outcomes to expect, and strategies we might use, in clear layman's terms. I feel like Matt was very conscientious about not wasting my money. We spent a good amount on private investigators, but all of it was well spent and in the end got us the best possible result. This brings up another point worth mentioning, Matt has put together a great team of investigators and experts to help win your case. I highly recommend Matt Sullivan, not just a great lawyer, a great guy too!
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19 May, 2024 by David
My wife and I needed Marc's help with a sensitive identity theft issue that he took the time to help us navigate because of the serious financial and legal implications.
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05 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I was arrested for DUI in Alameda County. Marc was recommended to me by a family member. I did not know whether to hire him before the District Attorney would make a charging decision. Marc advised me to hire someone good to represent me asap because he said that based upon his former experience as a prosecutor, it was much better if I had a good lawyer plead my case before a charging decision was made. And also for the DMV hearing process. The DA decided to not file a DUI case against me!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Raul
I was facing a first DUI in SF with fines that would be a big burden on me. Marc basically got me a wet reckless which meant no fines, no jail, and I only had to do certain classes which is very doable for me. Marc also followed-up with me to ensure I would get my restricted license from the DMV.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I got a reduced sentence in santa clara county as Mike was able to negotiate it down to a weekend work program by guiding me through the process. I would definitely recommend him as he is prompt with his responses and supportive of your situation at all times.
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15 Aug, 2020 by Michael
Silveira Law is the best! I used them to contest an automated red light ticket. The cost to fight the ticket was around the same as the citation fine. Michael and Katherine were very responsive and kept me always up to date, even when the courts shut for COVID-19 for several months. I have nothing but praise for Silveira Law! 10 STARS!
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31 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
First time ever using an attorney's service for anything, great experience. Sent all the papers and fees then just had to wait; the citation was dismissed.
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24 Dec, 2020 by Katherine
Mr. Jason does what he says he will do which a unprecedented characteristic. He is a expert in every element of the legal profession. Thank you for assisting me win justice Mr. Jason.
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20 Dec, 2020 by Becca hubert
I actually have labored with Jason Beahm approximately 3 instances and I am very thrilled with the final results. It takes approximately a yr to get your settlement again however it's miles really worth the wait. I could noticeably endorse Jason!They are very professional and desirable at what they do.
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12 Dec, 2020 by Zack
Thank you a lot, Jason. Made the procedure smooth for me and helped to calm my issues as I changed into a multitude going via all of this.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Jackie rees
Bryan helped me navigate a challenging employment termination case. He was professional, driven and helped me achieve my goals. Bryan and Team ( mostly Ben) were beyond fantastic to work with!
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29 Jan, 2023 by Latasha bennett
Bryan McCormack is a great employment lawyer. He helped me battle a claim that wasn’t that easy to prove. But with his help we were able to come with facts! He is very professional and was responsive to all the questions I had regarding my rights. I’m delighted with the outcome of my case. Thank you Bryan and Ben for all the great work!
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18 Feb, 2022 by Ozi mamla
Bryan McCormack and his team (predominantly Ben) were very helpful in helping me and a few others in getting an appropriate settlement for our case. Not only were they professional, but they continually provided us with thorough updates with clear communication and honesty.
I would highly recommend Bryan McCormack and his team to anyone out there who is looking for an amazing attorney to help with their employment related matters.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Szq g
I spoke to a social worker in regards to the stability of their home life when they aren't with me. Being concerned about my daughter, and the inconsistency of her lifestyle which concerned me quite a bit whenever she would take the kids or present a different new boyfriend/place to stay.. (for the most part I have raised them/they lived w/me) I began to get concerned about how they were being affected by her irresponsibility as a parent. Later to find out that they were not attending school, and my oldest grandson taking on the babysitter role and would get in trouble for his little brother in which he became a totally different kid (quite angry about his whole environmen) he was told to lie to me if I asked him questions. My grandson started to call me when his mom would sleep/ or wasn't home and he would tell me things. I convinced my daughter to let me take them to live with me during the week so I can enroll them back in school and fix the inconsistency again time passed and they were safe with me; She started telling me things when she didn't get her way, trying to manipulate saying she was taking the kids from me (*if I talked to her about lying, and being irresponsible etc...) I got to the point that I needed to help these kids before she really screwed them upore and swore to look; nyo things and if she ever got into trouble shoplifting etc... I would use it to my advantage. The social worker referred me to Legal services for children and I started to work on getting guardianship and soon enough she went to jail. They were great, they helped me so much with everything including emergency paperwrk for serving her in jail for restraining order etc .. they came to my home to talk to the kids and I. They made it smooth like butter explaining everything!!! So glad she recommended this place. Perfect for kids who eed help!!!
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15 Jun, 2023 by Rob fordyce
Stebner,Gertler,Guadagni and Kawamato were so incredibly kind and helpful with my and my mother's case.
Deena Zacharin was my defense attorney.
She was compassionate with my case but really tough when it mattered during the deposition. I felt supported and was well informed.
Karman M. Guadagni was diligent with all of the details and correspondence concerning the case as well as a pleasure to work with. .
Kathryn Stebner is a gifted lawyer who really cares about people and standing up for cases that matter.
It was an honor to have her represent my family and we are grateful to her and her staff.
Sincerely,
Robert D. Fordyce
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27 Jun, 2022 by Maria rokas
Dealing with the death of a loved one is hard, dealing with an untimely death that necessitates litigation is beyond comprehension when you're grieving, but it's sometimes the choice you need to make.
Our family had no experience with lawsuits and that's daunting. Kathryn, Karman and their entire team gently guided us through every step of the process. Everything was explained in a thorough but easy to understand way, making us feel cared for and confident in their expertise. All decisions were ours to make; at no point did we feel pressured to do anything that made us uncomfortable.
We can't recommend Stebner, Gertler, Guadagni and Kawamoto highly enough, nor can we imagine where we would be if we had not been referred to them. In the end, their hard work led to what we felt was a just and fair settlement.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
