Timothy E. Zerillo

PRO

Timothy E. Zerillo

also known as Tim Zerillo

5.0
49 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 24 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Portland, ME
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Federal Crime ... +4 more

1250 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME

Virtual Consultation Available

About Timothy

Biography

Maine's premier civil and criminal litigator. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 + consecutive years.

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 + consecutive years.

Maine's premier civil and criminal litigator. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." Only Maine lawyer who is a Director of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 consecutive years.

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 + consecutive years.

Maine's premier civil and criminal litigator. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." Only Maine lawyer who is a Director of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 consecutive years.

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 + consecutive years.

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 + consecutive years.

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. Named to "Best Lawyers in America." On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" for 10 + consecutive years.

Practice Areas

7

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 40%

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" and "Best Lawyers In America"

29 years

40%
Business 10%

Put our litigation and business compliance experience to work for you! Business litigation, marijuana compliance and strategy.

29 years

10%
Drug Crime 10%

Federal and State drug lawyer, possession, trafficking, conspiracy. Only Maine lawyer serving on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Named to "Best Lawyers In America."

29 years

10%
Federal Crime 10%

Maine's premier criminal defense lawyer. On the Board of Directors of the "National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers." Fellow of the "American Board of Criminal Lawyers." Named to "New England Super Lawyers" and "Best Lawyers In America"

29 years

10%
Personal Injury 10%

Former Allstate Insurance Adjuster now a lawyer helping injured Maine people!

29 years

10%
Sex Crime 10%

10%
White Collar Crime 10%

Only Maine lawyer serving on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Named to "Best Lawyers In America."

29 years

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 400-400 per hour

Contingency

25%-40%

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Licenses

Licensed in Maine for 24 years

State: Maine

Acquired: 2001

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Zerillo Law Firm, LLC

1250 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME, 04103

www.zerillolaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Timothy online.

Timothy E. Zerillo's Reviews

5 star

(46)

4 star

(0)

3 star

(0)

2 star

(0)

1 star

(0)

Posted by Isaac | May 20, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Excellent

Tim is extremely good at what he does. He represented me and I can't recommend him enough! His professionalism and attention to detail is incredible. Thanks again!

Posted by Guangying | July 27, 2023 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

A Perfect Blend of Expertise and Exceptional Service

As a satisfied client, I must express my utmost appreciation for the remarkable services provided by Tim Zerillo . Throughout the entire legal process, he demonstrated a profound understanding of the law, and his expertise was truly impressive. I am particularly grateful for the way Tim tirelessly... fought for my best interests. He left no stone unturned and navigated through complex legalities with confidence and precision, resulting in the best possible outcome for my case. Tim truly went above and beyond to ensure my rights were protected and that justice prevailed. The reasonable fees charged by his firm were a refreshing surprise. Tim provided transparent billing practices, and I felt assured that the cost was fair and commensurate with the exceptional quality of service received. Furthermore, I cannot praise enough the level of professionalism and dedication Tim exhibited. He was always available to address my concerns, providing timely updates and guidance throughout the entire process. Tim ability to listen attentively and respond with compassion made a significant difference during what was a challenging time for me. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Tim Zerillo to anyone seeking legal representation. His wealth of knowledge, zealous advocacy, reasonable fees, and impeccable service make him an outstanding professional in the field. Thank you once again for everything Tim ! Your support and guidance have made a lasting positive impact on my life.

Posted by Bryon | May 18, 2023 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Exceptional

I was referred to Tim by my divorce attorney to represent me on a separate legal matter. He reviewed the case and developed a strategy that resulted in two felony charges being dropped and a third reduced to a misdemeanor, through a differed disposition. He and his team were approachable, efficient, ...knowledgeable, and on top of the case all the way through. Even with priors on my record, his efforts allowed for to best possible outcome in the case. Highly recommend.

Posted by anonymous | October 27, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Utterly professional

Tim was thoroughly professional throughout our adventure, and helped me wrap-up matters very quickly, while previous attorneys had delayed and procrastinated. I cannot say enough about Tim's professionalism and dedication. He is an incredible attorney, and I will always recommend him to anyone in ne...ed.

Posted by anonymous | August 24, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

We recommend Tim Zerillo, without question, for those seeking professional, compassionate and incomparable legal help."

Our non-violent and remarkably kind, mentally ill son, who was in the throes of psychosis, made a phone call for help one night that turned into a string of legal errors, resulting in his having to defend a bogus criminal charge that needed an exceptionally smart, compassionate and proactive lawyer. ... Not knowing where to turn, and after consulting with one of the most noted defense lawyers in the nation, we were directed to contact Maine Attorney, Timothy Zerillo, and thank God, we did! Tim and his entire staff responded to us with incredible empathy, and stood by us through an entire pre-trial procedure that ended with our son being granted the opportunity to reclaim his innocence from the wrongful charge. Not only was Tim's legal argument sufficient to support our son's defense, but his ability to talk with, and help move our extremely anxious son through the court process was remarkably sensitive and caring. "Tim, you are a master magician at defending those who are least able to defend themselves. We cannot be grateful for, or thank you enough for bringing our family through this really difficult time, and recommend you without question, for those seeking professional, compassionate and incomparable legal help." Most sincerely, S and family

See All Client Reviews

Timothy E. Zerillo's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Timothy
David J. Bobrow headshot
David Bobrow

Unknown lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Zerillo is the type of lawyer you go to when everything in your world is at stake. He's that kind of attorney."

Shelley P Carter headshot
Shelley Carter

Unknown lawyer | Jan 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Attorney Zerillo. Tim is an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. He is highly professional and is well versed in the law. He is a fierce advocate for his client's rights. I recommend Tim without any reservation."

Taylor Andrew Asen headshot
Taylor Asen

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Tim is a great lawyer."

Amy L Fairfield headshot
Amy Fairfield

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stephen J. Schwartz headshot
Stephen Schwartz

Unknown lawyer | Nov 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Tim. He is a top-notch attorney. He is very knowledgeable, talented, thorough, personable, and effective. He is well thought of by his clients and colleagues alike, always willing to help by sharing his expertise with others."

David Weyrens headshot
David Weyrens

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 24

Relationship: Co-worker

"Tim is a skilled and aggressive divorce lawyer. In working with him I have continually been impressed by the unique strategy he develops based upon each client's needs. He then sticks with this strategy through the inevitable twists and turns of a divorce and in doing so I have continually seen him achieve great results for his clients."

Thomas F. Hallett headshot
Thomas Hallett

Family lawyer | Aug 24

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a terrific lawyer."

Daphne Hallett Donahue headshot
Daphne Donahue

Unknown lawyer | Mar 16

Relationship: Co-worker

"Tim is passionate about the law, and about working with his clients to meet their goals - whether in a criminal or civil matter."

Matthew Dillon Bowe headshot
Matthew Bowe

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brett N Gabor headshot
Brett Gabor

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 29

Relationship: Co-worker

"Tim is a forceful and professional advocate who works doggedly for each of his clients. No stone is ever left unturned. I would want Tim on my side no matter the situation."

Michael Whipple headshot
Michael Whipple

Litigation lawyer | Jun 26

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Top notch litigator."

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Personal injury lawyer | Nov 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

J. Denise Carter headshot
J. Denise Carter

Personal injury lawyer | Apr 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer.a very well respected advocate in the legal community."

John M. Burke headshot
John Burke

Litigation lawyer | Feb 24

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I worked with Attorney Zerillo for over three years. Labeling him as a criminal defense attorney or personal injury attorney does not do him justice. Though he excels in those areas of law, I would label Attorney Zerillo as a true litigator. Whatever the subject matter is, Attorney Zerillo can litigate it. Attorney Zerillo possess the right command in the courtroom that Judges and fellow attorneys respect. If you need someone to battle for you, Attorney Zerillo is the right attorney for the job. In addition to his ability to litigate a case, Attorney Zerillo does an excellent job providing his clients with enough information to assess their case and make a well-educated decision on how to proceed forward with their case. I endorse this lawyer and his ability to represent his clients zealously in all subject matters before State and Federal Court."

Edmund R. Folsom headshot
Edmund Folsom

Litigation lawyer | Dec 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Tim Zerillo is top shelf. I endorse this lawyer."

Amber Lynn Tucker headshot
Amber Tucker

Litigation lawyer | Dec 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Tim is a well-respected attorney in both the courtroom and in the community."

Matthew F. Govan headshot
Matthew Govan

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 11

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I am successor counsel in a family matter where Tim was representing the client before me. When I went to the District Court to abstract the legal file to assess the case, I was impressed with Tim’s work. The pleadings were thorough and his advocacy skills were apparent. I was equally impressed with Tim's quick response and the ease at which he worked with me to transition the case. I have known for some time that Tim is a top-notch criminal attorney, I now know he is a top-notch family law attorney as well. It takes a talented attorney to show such proficiency across multiple practice areas. Tim is the type of attorney whose phone rings (and gets picked up) when a fellow attorney is looking for an answer to a tough legal question or for someone to bounce ideas off."

Amy T. Robidas headshot
Amy Robidas

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 27

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Tim is an extremely talented attorney, who has the expertise to represent clients at the highest level. Tim treats all clients with respect regardless of what they are accused of. He has a superb understanding of the law and is an exceptional trial attorney. He is intelligent, tenacious, and will fight to get you the best result possible. Without question, if you are accused of a crime, you want Tim on your side."

View All Endorsements
Taylor Andrew Asen headshot
Taylor Asen

Wrongful death lawyer

Stephen M Sweatt headshot
Stephen Sweatt

Criminal defense lawyer

Stephen J. Schwartz headshot
Stephen Schwartz

Criminal defense lawyer

Ryan D. Oxendine headshot
Ryan Oxendine

Personal injury lawyer

Caitlin Locascio-King headshot
Caitlin Locascio-King

Elder law lawyer

Benjamin N. Donahue headshot
Benjamin Donahue

Litigation lawyer

David J. Bobrow headshot
David Bobrow

Unknown lawyer

David R Yannetti headshot
David Yannetti

Criminal defense lawyer

Veronica J. White headshot
Veronica White

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Whipple headshot
Michael Whipple

Criminal defense lawyer

Daphne Hallett Donahue headshot
Daphne Donahue

Litigation lawyer

Thomas F. Hallett headshot
Thomas Hallett

Litigation lawyer

David Weyrens headshot
David Weyrens

Personal injury lawyer

Brett N Gabor headshot
Brett Gabor

Family lawyer

Shelley P Carter headshot
Shelley Carter

Criminal defense lawyer

Amy L Fairfield headshot
Amy Fairfield

Criminal defense lawyer

J. Denise Carter headshot
J. Denise Carter

Unknown lawyer

Mark Howard Allenbaugh headshot
Mark Allenbaugh

Criminal defense lawyer

Drew Findling headshot
Drew Findling

Criminal defense lawyer

Matthew Dillon Bowe headshot
Matthew Bowe

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2017

Super Lawyer, New England Super Lawyers

2016

New England Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2015

Top 10 for 2015, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2015

Top 10 Attorneys, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2015

New England Super Lawyer, New England Super Lawyers

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

New England Super Lawyer, New England Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

New England Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2012

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

President's Award, Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2012

New England Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Top 40 Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers

2011

New England Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2011

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2010

New England Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2010

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

Work Experience

2017 - Present

Managing Partner, Zerillo Law Firm, LLC

2015 - 2017

Managing Partner, Hallett, Zerillo & Whipple, P.A.

2005 - 2007

Adjunct Professor, Saint Joseph's College of Maine

2000 - 2014

Attorney, Zerillo Law, LLC

1995 - 1997

Claim Representative, Allstate Insurance Company

Associations

2018 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Delegate, Northeast Region

2016 - Present

American Academy of Certified Financial Lititgators

Founder

2009 - Present

Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

President

2008 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2001 - Present

Maine Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2001 - Present

American Association for Justice

Member

2008 - 2009

Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

President-Elect

Sample of Legal Cases

Anthony Sanborn v. State of Maine

Client released from 70 year murder sentence

See More Legal Cases

Education

2000

New England Law Boston

JD - Juris Doctor

1995

University of New Hampshire

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2016

Maine Trial Lawyers Association

“Can I Say That? Ethical Issues in Opening Statements and Closing Arguments”

2016

Maine Home Grown Trade Show and Expo

How To Deal With the DEA

2016

Law and Society

Dealing With Drug Dogs: Lessons from United States v. Adam White

2016

Ethics and Law

Can I Say That? Ethical Issues in Opening Statements and Closing Arguments

2014

National webinar

Defending Child Pornography Prosecutions

2012

Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyer’s Annual Seminar

“Collateral Consequences and Firearm Rights”

2011

York Bar Association Conference

“Domestic Violence: Collateral Consequences of Domestic Assault Convictions”

2011

St. Joseph's College

“Critical Issues in Criminal Justice"

2009

York and Cumberland County Bar Associations

“Zealous Advocacy in Criminal Defense”

2009

Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers CLE 2009

"Attacking the Medical Evidence in Child Sex Abuse Cases"

2008

York and Cumberland County Bar Association

"New Horizons in Setting Conditions of Release"

2008

Maine Association of Criminal Defense CLE "Hit Hard, Hit First: Criminal Defense for the Modern Practitioner,"

"Ethical and Practical Considerations of Replacement Counsel"

Publications

2012

Maine Law Review “Confrontation Clause Update after Michigan v. Bryant”

2012

Maine Lawyers Review “The Police Are Knocking On My Client’s Door and I Don’t Practice Criminal Law – What Do I Do?”

2010

Maine Lawyers Review “Confrontation Clause Rights in Maine in Domestic Violence Cases”

2010

Maine Lawyers Review “Melendez-Diaz Requires Maine Restructure the State’s Presentation of Evidence in Operating after Suspension Trials”

2009

Maine Lawyers Review “Pre-Charge Defense of Child Sexual Abuse Allegations”

2008

Maine Lawyers Review “Criminal Law: Go Beyond the Maine Criminal Rules for Exculpatory Evidence”

2007

Maine Lawyers Review “Criminal Law: Yes Virginia, Grand Jury Transcripts Do Exist”

2001

New England Journal of International & Comparative Law “Equal Protection and Due Process in the First Circuit for Criminal Aliens in Deportation Proceedings: Another Reason to Vacation Overseas”

Languages

English

Activity

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution