Lawyers map
>10
experienced lawyers
Filter by
26 Oct, 2024 by Minister rose jesus
Thank you for responding to my call. You are AMAZING 🤩
I appreciate the referral at no cost!!!
My name is Rose D
Go check out his Firm
He’s about THE PEOPLES NEEEDS
That is Exactly what we Need.in this CORUPT world. WILLIAM PERNKIK
And WIFE OLGA! Go check them out.
I promise you
You won’t be disappointed at all
He wins All his Cases
😊
May GOD Continue to always bless you in abundance in everything in your life always
🙏
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Navraj chakal
Where do i start. It was my first experience as dui charges that i had to face. I luckily came across Charles H. Shivers and i quickly went through so many reviews and i decided to Call Charles, answered and assured me that he would work in my best interest. I first contacted Charles in 2023 July. From my call till today Charles stood out be the straight shooter. He told what he can and what he cannot. But as time went passed. I just want to sum it up that Charles not only got all my charges dismissed but was available on every call i made and every email we exchange. Today i confidently say he was like family over this past year and stood by me at every turn. If you need help with your Dui. Please with hesitation reach out to him. He stand by you like family.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Paul taylor
When you feel a Public Defender is not the answer to your problems. I asked myself, "who do I turn to"? Well, while thumbing through an endless amount of options I stumbled on Law Office of William V. Pernik. I was quickly invited in for a consultation. Almost immediately I felt the passion for my concerns regarding my case. The District Attorney (D.A) was trying to brand me with a criminal charge that I knew did not fit. The D.A. would not budge or listen to people or facts of my case. I was just a case # to them, they treated me as if I was not human. The Law Office of William V. Pernik very much understood my feelings, emotions, anxieties, and my fears. I chose Pernik. Mr. Pernik assigned a lawyer by the name of Mr. Ercolano to my case. At first glance, I was taken off guard. Before me, I saw a sharp dressed baby faced attorney. I was a bit puzzled. However, I was taught never judge by its cover. So together we rolled up our sleeves and went to work. The D.A. would stay firm on the decision to charge me, it did not matter the evidence in my favor. It was heartbreaking. My family and I could not even begin to start the healing process. Mr. Ercolano stated to me "We will not fold or agree to a plea agreement". Through it trials and tribulations. Through the sometimes, lengthy court process. Yes, we got the outcome that we were looking for! So much weight lifted off my shoulders. My family and I can officially put efforts into healing.
Read more
28 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Very helpful. Polite. And went above and beyond to help me through a stressful situation
Read more
28 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Jamey and Dylan(and staff) was AMAZING!
Seriously. I called around to others in the area- having never been arrested, in jail or anything like this before, I didn't know what to expect. The first person I called was rude, he had been practicing DUI cases in Monterey for many years, and I am sure he was knowledgeable, but I didn't trust him the ways I trusted Jamey; right from the start, he was kind and very professional. He seems like a good guy too, a straight-talker who is down to earth, and smart.
Anyhow, that was my initial impression and my gut was right! This was one, if not, the worst thing to ever happen to me. I needed someone to walk me through the journey and I got more than I expected.
So my story – I was knocked out. I was on vacation in Canery Row and parked my car on the street set a 2 hour timer on my phone and went to my favorite restaurant in the area. Time passed, plans changed, and the timer went off, I booked a hotel nearby. As I went to move the rental car one tenth of the mile away, in to valet, something hit the back of my car. I come to learn someone on a skateboard lost control of their skateboard and it hit the back of the rental car. I didn't know what had happened, for all I knew, another car could have hit the back of my car. So I got out to see what happened and a large man came charging at me, I turned around to get back in the car, and that's when I was knocked out. This all happened within seconds of getting out to see if anyone was hurt based off the bang I heard, in the middle of bumper to bumper traffic, on Canery Row.
Minutes later, police and ambulance came, witnesses described that the man had run away. The police officer was a complete jerk, newer on the force(Jamey tells me) – no field sobriety test was given. They arrived when I was on the sidewalk, bleeding and in shock at what happened. Instead of being treated like a victim, I was handcuffed because they smelt whiskey on my breath. I spent the next 48 hours in a holding cell, it was like what I imagine hell to be like, very sad. Since the officer was horrible, he failed to follow correct procedure. Jamey reviewed the body footage and advised the Judge to do so too. Because of this insight Jamey had, the DMV through out the case entirely. Typically, this sort of thing carries 1 year mandatory suspension of license.
I had a BAC of .089, which is right at the bottom of the legal limit. Jamey told me from day one that he would push for me to get a reduction of the charge to a “Wet Reckless”(carries lower fines and not a DUI charge).
One 12 hour class later and approximately $1000 in fines, I have moved on with my life.
Everytime I thought of that evening, I would get irate. I actually have had to stop thinking about it entirely in order to maintain myself and move on in a healthy way. Sometime after the 3rd phone call or so(I have lived in a different state for over a decade), Jamey would encourage me to not allow the things we couldn't change, to effect us today. That wisdom and care from this professional, went a very long way. I needed that perspective, he cared enough about his client to provide it and care for their mental state.
That's what I will think of when I think back to getting knocked out, with no justice and being jailed for 2 days, due to an error I made of parking on the street. The kindness of my attorney, what a great outcome for a miserable period of time.
Thank you for everything! I hope to see you in person and shake your hand, that would be one fine day!
Read more
10 Apr, 2019 by P.
Jamey was a great attorney from the very beginning to the very end of my case. He listened to all of my concerns especially since I no longer live in the area. He assured me and was very clear that it was something he could represent me even from being far away! He is also very straightforward and updates you with every little detail throughout your case as fast as possible. I honestly was very nervous but after speaking to Jamey he made me feel like I was not alone and just kept my head up and move on from this mistake. I am very grateful for finding Jamey and having him help me with an expungement. I will always recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I had the good fortune of being a client of Mr. Pernik, hands-down the best and most competent defense attorney practicing in the Monterey Peninsula-Salinas area, and beyond.
After an unexpected turn of events, I needed help with a legal case and appreciated the fact that Mr. Pernik was willing to represent me. As I worked with Mr. Pernik, Dustin, and other members of his team to resolve the issue, it became readily apparent that they worked well together, and in my best interest. In the end, the case was settled fairly, and I attribute that success to Mr. Pernik and his team's professionalism, integrity, and compassion.
I highly recommend Mr. Pernik, whether you're dealing with a straightforward case, or one that's more complex in nature. The legal representation that he provides will be first-rate, bar none.
Read more
21 Dec, 2020 by Kenneth meyer
William will fight for you. He is compassionate and wise. He really knows his stuff and will focus on your needs and wants. If you're needing some serious help this is the lawyer to help you. He got my case dismissed when other attorneys would have failed .
Read more
14 Oct, 2019 by Alex frem
I've been a client of Law Offices of William Pernik for a few years now. I've been seeking legal counsel on many situations, some of which had to do with selling possibly prohibited goods nationwide, some related to cannabis, and others with best course of action to be taken to avoid legal trouble.
His law firm gave me excellent advice every time. While I hope it will never come to this, I rest easy knowing I have access to a knowledgeable attorney in case I get into serious legal trouble.
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Amanda
This amazing woman knowing that I couldn't afford to pay for her services still listened to me answered all my questions I feel she gave me her honest opinion and best advice .very personable and caring explained my rights and possible out comes very knowledgeable I would recommend her to anyone who needs a really good defense lawyer the best of the best and nothing less
Read more
16 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Monique is an amazing lawyer, she really listens to her clients and gives them her honest opinion on the case. We knew I was innocent from the beginning of this whole ordeal but we had to go through the court process to prove it. She stayed in close contact with me, made me feel like I wasn't just another "win" I was an actual person. She worked with my finances so I could hire her. One of the nicest honest lawyers around! If anyone needs a lawyer I will be sure to send them her card!
Read more
19 Jan, 2017 by Mariah
Monique is a wonderful lawyer. From the beginning she made me feel safe, understand, and she clearly listened to everything I had to say. She asked questions of myself and my case that I had not even thought about and helped me better understand myself and my situation. She was extremely realistic about my case and made me feel hopeful of the outcome. She got me exactly what I asked for, I couldn't have been happier. Monique has experience with many types of cases and is one of the most knowledgeable lawyers I know. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a compassionate, intelligent, hard working attorney who is determined to meet your needs.
Read more
26 Oct, 2024 by Minister rose jesus
Thank you for responding to my call. You are AMAZING 🤩
I appreciate the referral at no cost!!!
My name is Rose D
Go check out his Firm
He’s about THE PEOPLES NEEEDS
That is Exactly what we Need.in this CORUPT world. WILLIAM PERNKIK
And WIFE OLGA! Go check them out.
I promise you
You won’t be disappointed at all
He wins All his Cases
😊
May GOD Continue to always bless you in abundance in everything in your life always
🙏
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Navraj chakal
Where do i start. It was my first experience as dui charges that i had to face. I luckily came across Charles H. Shivers and i quickly went through so many reviews and i decided to Call Charles, answered and assured me that he would work in my best interest. I first contacted Charles in 2023 July. From my call till today Charles stood out be the straight shooter. He told what he can and what he cannot. But as time went passed. I just want to sum it up that Charles not only got all my charges dismissed but was available on every call i made and every email we exchange. Today i confidently say he was like family over this past year and stood by me at every turn. If you need help with your Dui. Please with hesitation reach out to him. He stand by you like family.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Paul taylor
When you feel a Public Defender is not the answer to your problems. I asked myself, "who do I turn to"? Well, while thumbing through an endless amount of options I stumbled on Law Office of William V. Pernik. I was quickly invited in for a consultation. Almost immediately I felt the passion for my concerns regarding my case. The District Attorney (D.A) was trying to brand me with a criminal charge that I knew did not fit. The D.A. would not budge or listen to people or facts of my case. I was just a case # to them, they treated me as if I was not human. The Law Office of William V. Pernik very much understood my feelings, emotions, anxieties, and my fears. I chose Pernik. Mr. Pernik assigned a lawyer by the name of Mr. Ercolano to my case. At first glance, I was taken off guard. Before me, I saw a sharp dressed baby faced attorney. I was a bit puzzled. However, I was taught never judge by its cover. So together we rolled up our sleeves and went to work. The D.A. would stay firm on the decision to charge me, it did not matter the evidence in my favor. It was heartbreaking. My family and I could not even begin to start the healing process. Mr. Ercolano stated to me "We will not fold or agree to a plea agreement". Through it trials and tribulations. Through the sometimes, lengthy court process. Yes, we got the outcome that we were looking for! So much weight lifted off my shoulders. My family and I can officially put efforts into healing.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by M mcmillan
My experiences with this stellar firm, its attorneys and staff were first class. I worked mostly with Juliet Peck, but also Cindy Negrete and Bernie Cerna (then a paralegal/legal assistant, but now an attorney). I felt that the entire firm, including Michael Lawrence, took a personal interest in my case. All the attorneys are well connected to the Monterey County legal community of other attorneys, judges, court clerks, experts, the Monterey County Bar Association, the Monterey College of Law and many others.
Juliet and her team worked very hard on my case. They took a personal interest in my case, which ran through the dreaded COVID time.
I watched Juliet, Cindy and Bernie in action in the courtroom, and they were "best of class." They had a rapport with the judges, court staff and even opposing attorneys. In the end, my results were extraordinary.
Attorneys are like surgeons and body shops: You want the very best when you need one, but you hope never to need one again. However, if I ever need one again, I'll go back to Lawrence & Peck. And, I know they will remember me and take good care of me.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie reilly
We were so lucky to be referred to Lawrence & Peck by our local attorney. Our attorney does not practice in the Salinas area and recommended Lawrence & Peck to handle a matter for us in Salinas. Everyone in the office is responsive and helpful. The legal advice we received and handling of our case in court was topnotch. We had a better outcome than I could have imagined thanks to the skill and expertise of the Lawrence & peck law firm.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Yanira pereira
Helpful, good communication, professional service
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by M mcmillan
My experiences with this stellar firm, its attorneys and staff were first class. I worked mostly with Juliet Peck, but also Cindy Negrete and Bernie Cerna (then a paralegal/legal assistant, but now an attorney). I felt that the entire firm, including Michael Lawrence, took a personal interest in my case. All the attorneys are well connected to the Monterey County legal community of other attorneys, judges, court clerks, experts, the Monterey County Bar Association, the Monterey College of Law and many others.
Juliet and her team worked very hard on my case. They took a personal interest in my case, which ran through the dreaded COVID time.
I watched Juliet, Cindy and Bernie in action in the courtroom, and they were "best of class." They had a rapport with the judges, court staff and even opposing attorneys. In the end, my results were extraordinary.
Attorneys are like surgeons and body shops: You want the very best when you need one, but you hope never to need one again. However, if I ever need one again, I'll go back to Lawrence & Peck. And, I know they will remember me and take good care of me.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie reilly
We were so lucky to be referred to Lawrence & Peck by our local attorney. Our attorney does not practice in the Salinas area and recommended Lawrence & Peck to handle a matter for us in Salinas. Everyone in the office is responsive and helpful. The legal advice we received and handling of our case in court was topnotch. We had a better outcome than I could have imagined thanks to the skill and expertise of the Lawrence & peck law firm.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Yanira pereira
Helpful, good communication, professional service
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You
A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.
If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.
When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:
-
A Victim of Domestic Violence:
- Filing for a protective order (restraining order): If you need immediate protection from an abuser, a lawyer can help you file for a protective order, which legally requires the abuser to stay away from you and refrain from contacting you.
- Divorce or separation due to abuse: If domestic violence is a factor in your relationship, a lawyer can help you pursue a divorce or legal separation and ensure that you are protected throughout the process.
- Child custody and visitation issues: A lawyer can help you secure custody of your children and limit or restrict the abuser’s visitation rights to protect the safety of your children.
- Filing criminal charges: If you are pursuing criminal charges against the abuser, a domestic violence lawyer can work with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the case is handled properly.
- Assistance with safety planning: A lawyer can advise on the legal steps to create a safety plan, including securing temporary housing, and taking steps to protect you and your family.
-
Accused of Domestic Violence:
- Defending against criminal charges: If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, a lawyer can defend your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in court. If possible, the lawyer can help get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Challenging a restraining order: If someone has obtained a protective order against you, a lawyer can help you contest the order to prevent it from negatively impacting your life, including your employment and child custody rights.
- Dealing with family law issues: Domestic violence allegations can affect child custody, divorce, and property division. A lawyer can represent your interests in family court and ensure that your parental rights are protected.
- Avoiding criminal record implications: A lawyer can work to minimize the impact of the allegations on your record, which can affect your employment, housing, and future legal matters.
Hiring a lawyer at the earliest stages can help ensure your rights are protected and the case is handled effectively, whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations.
What Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Do?
A domestic violence lawyer provides various legal services depending on the specifics of your case. These responsibilities often include:
-
For Victims:
- Filing for protective orders: A lawyer can help victims of domestic violence obtain temporary or permanent restraining orders, which provide legal protection by restricting the abuser’s access to you and your children.
- Representing you in divorce and child custody matters: Domestic violence often leads to divorce or separation, and a lawyer can represent you in family court to protect your assets, secure custody of your children, and arrange spousal and child support.
- Criminal representation: Lawyers work with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
- Safety planning and legal advice: Lawyers provide advice on how to stay safe legally and can assist in securing temporary housing, providing guidance on how to leave abusive situations safely.
-
For the Accused:
- Defending against charges: A lawyer will build a defense by investigating the case, gathering evidence, and challenging the claims made against you. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
- Challenging protective orders: If a restraining order has been placed against you, a lawyer can contest the order and present evidence to defend against it, aiming to minimize its impact on your life and reputation.
- Handling related family law issues: Lawyers help defend against domestic violence allegations in divorce, child custody, and visitation disputes, working to protect your parental rights and reputation.
- Preventing long-term consequences: A lawyer will work to protect you from the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction, such as a criminal record that could affect employment, housing, and more.
How Are Domestic Violence Lawyers Paid?
Domestic violence lawyers generally charge for their services in different ways depending on the case's complexity and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many domestic violence lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Hourly rates are common for both criminal defense and family law matters.
- Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as filing a restraining order or defending against a straightforward domestic violence charge, some lawyers offer a flat fee that covers all legal work related to that service.
- Retainer: In complex cases, such as those involving criminal charges, divorce, and custody disputes, a lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
- Pro bono or reduced fees: Some domestic violence lawyers provide pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services to victims of domestic abuse who cannot afford legal representation.
It’s important to discuss fees during your consultation to ensure you understand how much your case will cost and what payment options may be available.
How Much Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a domestic violence lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal work required. General cost estimates include:
- Restraining orders: The legal fees for filing a protective or restraining order typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether the case requires a hearing.
- Criminal defense: If you’re defending against domestic violence charges, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on whether the case goes to trial and the severity of the charges.
- Family law issues: Legal fees for divorce, child custody, and other family law issues related to domestic violence can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Hourly rates: Domestic violence lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for their services, with more experienced lawyers charging higher rates.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand the total cost of legal services.
Top Questions to Ask a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Before hiring a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the right experience and approach for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with domestic violence cases?
Ensure that the lawyer has handled domestic violence cases similar to yours, whether you’re a victim or the accused. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fees, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
What is the likely outcome of my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Domestic violence cases vary in length, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what might cause delays. -
Will I need to appear in court?
Ask if your participation in court is required, and how the lawyer plans to represent you during hearings or trials. -
What steps should I take to protect myself or my rights?
Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or defending against allegations, ask the lawyer how they will help you navigate the situation.
How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable domestic violence lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for domestic violence experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in domestic violence cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in domestic violence cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for certifications or memberships in family law or domestic violence advocacy groups, such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
-
For Victims:
- Details of the abuse: Prepare a detailed account of the abuse, including dates, locations, and descriptions of any injuries or threats.
- Police reports and medical records: Bring copies of any police reports, medical records, or photographs that document the abuse.
- Legal filings: If you have already filed for a restraining order or been involved in any legal proceedings, bring copies of those documents.
- Questions about your safety and legal options: Be ready to ask about the best steps to protect yourself and your family, as well as what legal actions you should pursue.
-
For the Accused:
- Details of the allegations: Prepare a detailed account of the incident or allegations against you, including any evidence or witnesses that support your defense.
- Legal documents: Bring any legal documents you have received, such as a restraining order, criminal charges, or child custody filings.
- Questions about your defense: Prepare questions about the legal process, possible penalties, and how the lawyer plans to defend your case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation and provide the best possible legal advice.
