Luke Z. Fenchel

As the father of a client it was important to me that we find an attorney with ample experience, a thorough approach and a capability to communicate. Luke does indeed have a significant body of experience with the specific charges as well as insight into and experience with the judge, both of which ...were useful in this case. He reviewed the salient points of our case; detailed very clearly the various overlapping legal and bureacratic jurisdictions that came to bear with making a plea and sentencing, and showed considerable patience with our case. During our first few meetings I felt that his communication, ehile full and accurate, was somewhat less than clear. This changed significantly, in my mind, after those first few mereings, which coincided with starting his individual practice. The main difference was that an abundance of information was provided in a much more systematic way, and was much easier to understand. Again speaking as a parent, Luke also took the time to solicit and fully answer all of my/our questions. We were quite satisfied with Luke Fenchel.

I would recommend the services of Luke Fenchel to anybody in need of a criminal defense attorney. He was very unconventional at first and definitely took some getting used to, but I came to realize there’s a method to his madness. This was my first encounter with the legal system, and I really had no... idea what to expect. Luke made sure to breakdown what everything meant, and made sure I had a very clear understanding of all the legal terminology being used. We spoke daily, and he made it a point that we talked and were always on the same page. Even when it looked very dim, and I might be facing criminal charges. Luke worked very hard to make sure that didn’t happen, and I am still thankful to this day. I also enjoyed working with Luke because he was very dependable. When my JCC didn’t show up to my Cornell hearing, Luke arrived right on time to defend me against three JA’s. They thought they were going to steam roll me, but Luke pulled out what seemed to be “magic” and halted them right in their tracks. So if you ever find yourself in legal troubles don’t hesitate to call Luke Fenchel.

One of my greatest secret fears was to become involved with the criminal-justice system and when it happened in a serious and potentially life-scarring manner - I was indeed afraid and very anxious. I contacted Luke Fenchel very quickly for advice and it turned out to be one of the best decisions, f...ollowing one of the worst, of my life. For one of the personally surprising things I learnt from my case is that the Justice System is as much art as science and Mr. Fenchel is equally accomplished in both aspects. He definitely is a master of the rules of law and will notice all the details, but as importantly he skillfully practices the interpersonal relationships of the system that is determining your fate. In the smaller communities of the Finger Lakes I don't think it's surprising that defense attorneys know prosecutors, know judges etc., but Luke easily goes out of 'network' and his locale to find the people and information that will benefit the case. He is an excellent in navigating the best course for his client through the laws and people involved in Criminal Defense. For some specifics of my situation: I live in Ithaca, Tompkins County, but was charged with a Felony in Cayuga County that carried a range of penalties including possible Jail time, crippling fines and years of probation. Perhaps most beneficially Luke helped me calm down, gain some perspective, advised what practical steps I could do myself to help my case and what he realistically thought would be my best outcome to hope for. He's a 'people person' and my meetings with him were always helpful, upbeat and empowering. I quickly began to realize that I would successfully get through this process and with Luke's help achieve a fair outcome. And indeed, after six months of working on my case Luke secured a plea deal with the prosecutors for a misdemeanor conviction with a Conditional Discharge and a minimal fine. (No shame at this point in mentioning that I was entirely guilty of the Felony charges.) Furthermore, I had no money to speak of when I contacted Luke, but for a mere $100 retainer he took on my case and despite it's location in Cayuga County managed to be Assigned Council and has continued to liaison with The Court and help me complete the conditions of the discharge. If you need a Criminal De fence Lawyer - hire Luke Fenchel. He's a smart guy (Harvard, Cornell) who could be at a big firm in a big city, but luckily for his clients he's practicing law in Ithaca and the Finger Lakes.

As an international (F1) graduate student, I was in a lot of trouble after getting charged with a criminal misdemeanor (Class A: 4th degree with alcohol in the picture). I hired Luke for his council and, within 24 hours of my arrest, he expertly guided me to the steps necessary not only to keep my... criminal record clean but also to maintain my migration eligibility for future employment opportunities. I would highly recommend anyone to seek Luke’s council for any criminal charges that they are dealing and I, especially, do so for any international student who are worried about their visa situations. Luke was not only very knowledgeable about the legal aspect but also treated me with a kindness and understanding that helped me deal with a very stressful situation.

Mr Fenchel was reassuring yet commanded all the facts, at a time when we thought we had no options left. It was a most difficult situation, but he encouraged us immediately regarding this particular incident. He proceeded to put things in place, thoughtfully and passionately, but most im...portantly was always able to hear our concerns throughout the entire process. He spent time helping us understand and prepare ourselves, either way. We were especially encouraged by Mr Fenchel’s knowledge of the law, wisdom and experience. At the end, he documented all the evidence that needed to represent the facts, and continues, to this day, supporting us, even after a victorious "not responsible" outcome. He shows us this by following up with continued counseling and concern, over and beyond what most lawyers or representatives would still engage in. We are grateful that he was available for us, realizing it was a journey and yet we had a real professional working with us! Thank you so much again Luke!