Mehdi Essmidi

PRO

Mehdi Essmidi

also known as Mehdi

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 9 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at New York, NY
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, White Collar Crime, Gun Law, Child Custody

One Grand Central Place, Suite 4600, New York, NY

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Mehdi

Biography

Solving problems for clients and providing first class representation.

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

50%
Gun Law 20%

NYC gun permit and article 78 litigation.

20%
White Collar Crime 20%

20%
Child Custody 10%

Custody and visitation representation.

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2023
...
+ 4

Licenses

Licensed in New York for 9 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2016

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

The Law Offices of Mehdi Essmidi, P.L.L.C.

One Grand Central Place, Suite 4600, New York, NY, 10165

essmidilaw.com

The Law Offices of Mehdi Essmidi P.L.L.C.

300 Cadman Plaza West, 12th floor, Brooklyn, NY, 11201

essmidilaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Mehdi online.

Mehdi Essmidi's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

106 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 27 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Clement | September 23, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Trustworthy and Genuine Lawyer

Mr. Mehdi was very professional and gave great, honest advice for our case. He has a genuine concern for his clients and not only dealt with our case with great detail but also provided us with a better understanding of the law in general. We don't have much experience with the law nor being prosecut...ed against and Mr. Mehdi was fantastic for someone like us.

Posted by Roselind | August 25, 2023 | Hired Attorney

A lawyer who cares

Medhi was amazing with my son. He was with us through this entire ordeal. He made sure we understood everything and was so caring and kind and best of all made sure we had a positive outcome.

Posted by Steve | July 18, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Mehdi is outstanding!

Mehdi is everything a person could hope for when seeking the services of a Criminal Defense Attorney. He is knowledgeable, professional, patient, reliable, and unwaveringly assertive in pursuing the best possible outcomes for his clients. His consistent guidance and reachability were instrumental in ...helping me navigate a very sensitive and serious situation, and he was ultimately able to steer me clear of all the charges being brought against me. Particularly invaluable, throughout the entire process, were the insights Mehdi was able to bring from his experience as a Prosecutor. I was impressed by Mehdi from the offset of our initial consultation and would recommend him without hesitation.

Posted by anonymous | July 07, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Outstanding Criminal Defense Attorney for Challenging Cases in Westchester County

I had the privilege of working with Mehdi Essmidi as my defense attorney in a complex criminal defense case. I cannot speak highly enough of his exceptional knowledge, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case. Mehdi's extensive understanding of criminal defense, order of protection, and the di...stinct differences between the Westchester County courts and the five boroughs of NYC set him apart as a formidable legal advocate. One of the standout qualities of Mehdi was his profound knowledge of the intricacies of criminal defense law. He demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique challenges that arise in criminal cases, particularly in Westchester County. His familiarity with the local court system enabled him to develop a tailored defense strategy that proved to be immensely effective in my case. What truly impressed me was Mehdi's ability to negotiate a substantial reduction in my charges. Through his skillful and persuasive approach, he convinced the defense to lower my charges from a Level 3 Misdemeanor to harassment, with the condition of completing one year of probation. This outcome exceeded my expectations and was a testament to Mehdi's exceptional negotiation skills and his comprehensive understanding of the legal system. Throughout the entire process, Mehdi's communication skills were exemplary. He maintained open and transparent lines of communication, keeping me informed and updated every step of the way. He promptly addressed my concerns, patiently explained legal complexities, and provided valuable guidance. His professionalism and ability to effectively communicate complex legal matters were truly commendable. I greatly appreciated Mehdi's approach to my case. While he felt confident in pursuing the case through to trial, he recognized the potential emotional toll it could have on me and my family. His compassion and consideration were evident when he presented the option of reducing the charges and avoiding a lengthy trial process. I never felt pressured, but rather inspired by his unwavering confidence and dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for my case. I wholeheartedly recommend Mehdi Essmidi to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney. His extensive knowledge, remarkable negotiation skills, and deep commitment to his clients make him an invaluable asset in the courtroom. Mehdi's ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system, coupled with his genuine care and compassion, set him apart as an outstanding attorney. If you are searching for a defense attorney who will vigorously fight for your rights, provide clear and effective communication, and deliver exceptional results, Mehdi Essmidi is the attorney you need. His unwavering dedication and outstanding legal skills make him the epitome of an exceptional defense attorney.

Posted by anonymous | April 03, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

2 Steps Ahead

Mehdi is a straight shooter. He was very attentive to my concerns and was always thinking of the next move in my situation. I chose Mehdi because he seemed very prepared for all outcomes in comparison to a few other Attorneys I spoke with. He was always 2 steps ahead and had an answer/explanation for... all of my hypothetical questions (which was a lot). He seemed to also bring a fresh perspective to the conversation having been on the other side of the table not too long ago. It showed to me that he was experienced and confident. His insider knowledge was particularly helpful because it allowed me to get an understanding on how the prosecution/police were possibly handling the case, thus giving him an edge on how to react. He also made himself available to me, by phone and in person, which I appreciated as in this type of situation I wanted to speak face-to-face. Overall, Mehdi was competent and seemed determined to help me get the best outcome possible. Thank you Mehdi for your help, Grateful to put this behind me.

See All Client Reviews

Mehdi Essmidi's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Mehdi
David Elihu Ourlicht II headshot
David Ourlicht

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Mehdi Essmidi is one of the best attorneys I’ve had the privilege to work with — sharp, dedicated, and relentless in his pursuit of justice for his clients. He’s not only an exceptional trial attorney but also a true advocate who stands up for people when it matters most. Whether defending clients in serious criminal cases or protecting individuals’ Second Amendment rights, Mehdi is the attorney you want in your corner."

Patrick Jason Marshall headshot
Patrick Marshall

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 08

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Mehdi is able to bring his experience as a former prosecutor to his defense practice whether it is at trial, in motions, or plea negotiations. He is a zealous defender of his clients with his ability to apply the law to real world situations."

Elena Fast headshot
Elena Fast

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mehdi is an incredibly talented attorney. I trust his judgment and often get his insight on my cases. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any criminal case."

Ben Pearce headshot
Ben Pearce

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 26

Relationship: Other

"I have had an opportunity to watch Mehdi practice on both sides of the criminal law spectrum. First as a prosecutor and now has a defense attorney. His confidence in the courtroom is an invaluable asset that has provided benefit to both the State, and now his private clients. Should I find a friend or family member in need of help, I would rest easy that Mehdi would be able to provide them the same compassionate and effective representation that he has shown time and time again."

Dustan Orlando Neyland headshot
Dustan Neyland

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 26

Relationship: Other

"Mehdi is a very good trial attorney and advocate for his clients. He was a very respected prosecutor and is now an asset to the defense bar."

Julie Rendelman headshot
Julie Rendelman

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the fortune of working with Mehdi on several matters and watching him in action. Mehdi is an incredibly talented attorney with the necessary passion that clients look for in hiring an attorney."

Jeffery L. Greco headshot
Jeffery Greco

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 31

Relationship: Other

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Mehdi cut his teeth as a New York City Assistant D.A. in the Bronx DA's office. He handled 100's of serious felony matters of all sorts. His transition to the defense bar was a seamless one, and he immediately began the arduous task of fighting against the machine that chews up and spits out criminal defendants each and every day. Mehdi is a compassionate advocate for the criminally accused, and he takes pride in helping every one of his clients. Having someone like Mehdi in your corner is something you will be glad you did when you hire a lawyer to actually fight for you. You can't go wrong with Mehdi by your side."

Kristen Epifania headshot
Kristen Epifania

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Essmidi is an intelligent, passionate, and extremely effective attorney. His experience as a former prosecutor, combined with his extensive knowledge of criminal law, makes him a powerful advocate to have in your corner. He sincerely cares for his clients, and I would recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance."

Scott Brandon Richman headshot
Scott Richman

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Essmidi is an exceptional criminal defense attorney. I routinely refer criminal matters to him and my referrals have always been pleased with the results. I thoroughly endorse this attorney for criminal defense matters."

Lee A. Koch headshot
Lee Koch

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 02

Relationship: Co-worker

"Mehdi is an excellent attorney, and he will do everything in his power to make sure his clients have the best defense possible. Mehdi is an accomplished former Assistant District Attorney who thoroughly knows the ins and outs of prosecuting and defending a case. I have known Mehdi since the first day of law school, through his internships at the Manhattan and Queens DAs' offices, his clerkship with a Kings County (Brooklyn) criminal court judge, and his eventual career with the Bronx DA's office. If I was ever accused of a crime, I would not hesitate to call Mehdi to handle my case."

View All Endorsements
Patrick Jason Marshall headshot
Patrick Marshall

Unknown lawyer

Elena Fast headshot
Elena Fast

Criminal defense lawyer

Ben Pearce headshot
Ben Pearce

Criminal defense lawyer

Scott Brandon Richman headshot
Scott Richman

Litigation lawyer

Lee A. Koch headshot
Lee Koch

Immigration lawyer

Kristen Epifania headshot
Kristen Epifania

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2024

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2023

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2023

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2021

Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2021

2021 New York Metro Rising Stars, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2020

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2019

Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2014

Continuing Prof. Ed. Scholarship and Leadership Award, ALI-ABA

2012

Service Award, New York State Courts

Work Experience

2022 - Present

Managing Partner, The Law Offices of Mehdi Essmidi

2019 - 2022

Senior Trial Attorney, Greco Neyland P.C.

2014 - 2019

Assistant District Attorney, Bronx County District Attorney’s Office

Associations

2023 - Present

New York City Bar Association

Member

2022 - Present

Muslim Bar Association of New York

Member

2021 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2021 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2019 - Present

New York State Bar Association

Member

2019 - Present

New York State Association of Criminal Defense Law

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Forcible Touching on the Subway

Case dismissed because the DA couldn’t meet their burden of proof without using impermissible character evidence.

Arrest for Drinking and Driving: Black male that doesn’t drink alcohol

Jury trial to a verdict acquitting him of all DWI charges.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2014

New York Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

2008

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2023

Asian Americans for Equality Career Fair

High School Career Fair

2019

Muslim American Society of New York Career Building Event

Legal Careers and the Practice of Law

2019

Asian Americans for Equality Career Fair

Legal Careers in Government and Criminal Justice

Publications

Languages

Arabic

French

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
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