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James Neil Papirmeister

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Avvo Rating10
  • Silver Spring, MD
  • Licensed for 34 years
  • Free consultation
James Neil Papirmeister
James Neil Papirmeister
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About James

Premier defense lawyer since 1986 helping Marylanders. Call now for a free consultation.

DESCRIPTION
Selected in 2015 Washington DC/Maryland Super Lawyers for Criminal Defense.

Recognized, 2014  by Washingtonian Magazine in "Top Lawyers: Criminal Defense".

Selected for 2015  Bar Register of PreEminent Lawyers.

"18 years as an AV-rated attorney, the highest rating obtainable."
- Martindale Hubbell's Peer Review Rating, 1996-2015.

"Selected in 1996-2015 Bar Register of pre-eminent lawyers."
- Bar Register, 1996-2015

"Among criminal defense lawyers who are widely respected for their work."
- Washington Post, January 5, 2000

"A highly regarded criminal defense lawyer."
- Washington Post, June 2, 1999

For over 28 years, James N. Papirmeister has handled criminal cases, first as a judicial law clerk, then as a prosecutor and, for the last 17+ years, as a criminal defense attorney. He has defended thousands of clients facing serious criminal charges.

With many years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer and as a prosecutor with the Office of the State's Attorney for Prince George's County, James Papirmeister understands what it takes to successfully defend clients against felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile charges. As a former prosecutor, in fact, Mr. Papirmeister earned his reputation as the "Minute Man" for his ability to convince a jury of a defendant's guilt in just minutes. (Click on the related newpaper article below). This same level of determined legal tenacity now extends to helping his clients with all their various criminal defense-related needs.

James Papirmeister’s firm has represented countless clients involved in high-profile cases over the years, for the last 17 of which he has earned an AV-rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system, the “highest possible review rating for legal ability and ethical standards.” This means that he has gained the respect of the state’s legal community for his highly skilled representation. He has been selected in the 2014 Bar Register of Pre-eminent Lawyers, limited to only the most distinguished law practices, receiving the highest rating for legal ability and the highest rating for ethics and adherence to the professional standards of conduct, ethics, reliability and diligence.

Mr. Papirmeister's clients include doctors, lawyers, psychologists, politicians, athletes, schoolteachers, musicians, accountants, plumbers, electricians, contractors, and computer installers and programmers…not to mention the average man, woman and child of our community. He also represents federal and state law enforcement agents, officers, and employees.

If you are facing criminal charges or are under investigation, you need someone who will protect your rights. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, a substantial fine, loss of employment, deportation or other immigration consequences, and the social stigma of being a convicted criminal. Never underestimate the importance of hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney.
ADDRESS PHONE WEBSITE   NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
. Click on the articles below, which are just a sampling of the many articles in major local newspapers about some of the cases handled by James Papirmeister: 

A Win for Embattled Bethesda Physician
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/A-Win-For-Embattled-Bethesda-Physician.asp

Driver of Armored Car Gets 18 Months
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Driver-of-Armored-Car-Gets-18-Months.asp

Suspect Freed, Man Arrested After Voluntary Testimony
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Suspect-Freed.asp

Judge Revises Sentence for Man Who Killed His Wife
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Judge-Revises-Sentence.asp

Clinton Man Sentenced to Tolerance Program
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Clinton-Man-Sentenced-to-Toerance-Program.asp

Trial Avoided in Killing
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Trial-Avoided.asp

Judge Rules Mistrial in 'Samaritan' Killing
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Judge-Rules-Mistrial.asp

Officer Cleared in Cameraman's Injury
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Officer-Cleared.asp

Lack of Speedy Trial Results in Dismissal of Assault Case
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Lack-Speedy-Trial.asp

Teacher Cleared in Teen's Death
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Teacher-Cleared.asp

Woman Acquitted of Manslaughter in Wreck
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Woman-Acquitted.asp

Respected Criminal Prosecutor Resigns
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Respected-Criminal-Prosecutor-Resigns.asp

Killer No Match for 'Minute Man'
http://www.criminal-firm.com/CM/NewspaperArticles/Minute-Man.asp
  

 

Practice areas

OtherSpeeding and traffic ticketViolent crimeDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 33%

    you are facing criminal charges or are under investigation, you need someone who will protect your rights. Never underestimate the importance of hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney. Call now for a free consultation.

    34 years

  2. DUI and DWI: 30%

    A DUI arrest involves both criminal and civil consequences. The criminal consequences you face depend upon your prior record, the seriousness of the offense, and your blood alcohol content (BAC). Call Attorney Papirmeister today for a free consult.

    34 years

  3. Violent crime: 15%

    Armed robbery | Arson | Assault | Carjacking | Attempted murder | Murder | Manslaughter | Vehicular manslaughter | Firearm offenses | Sexual offenses | Rape | Call Attorney Papirmeister now for a free consultation.

    34 years

  4. Speeding and traffic ticket: 10%

    Hit & run | Reckless driving | Driving without insurance | Driving on a suspended license | Driving with revoked license | Fleeing & eluding police offers | High speed traffic tickets | Call Attorney Papirmeister today, stop worrying.

    34 years

  1. Juvenile law: 10%

    Minors can be charged as either a juvenile or an adult. If you are 14 years old or older and charged with first degree murder or rape, you will automatically be charged as an adult. For someone who knows juvenile law, call Attorney Papirmeister now.

    34 years

  2. Sex crime: 2%

    Rape | Statutory rape | Sexual assault | Child molestation | Child abuse | Prostitution | Solicitation | If you've been charged with a sex crime, call Attorney Papirmeister today for a free consultation.

    34 years

Languages spoken

French

Photos and videos

1558036 1312928000

Contact

8630 FENTON STREET
address map

JAMES N. PAPIRMEISTER, ESQ.

8630 FENTON STREET
SUITE 320
SILVER SPRING, MD, 20910

Office (301) 589-2100
Mobile (301) 367-6500

Website

http://www.criminal-firm.com/

http://[email protected]

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
DCActive 198910/14/2017
MDActive198611/30/2015
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers6
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2020
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2019
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2018
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2017
CRIMINAL DEFENSEWashington DC Super Lawyers2015
"TOP LAWYERS: CRIMINAL DEFENSE"Washingtonian Magazine2014
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2014
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2013
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2012
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2011
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2010
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2009
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2008
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2007
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2006
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2005
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2004
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2003
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2002
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2001
"Among Criminal Defense Lawyers Widely Respected For Their Work"Washington Post Article on Top Criminal Defense Attorneys2000
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2000
"A Highly Regarded Criminal Defense Lawyer"Washington Post Article on Top Criminal Defense Attorneys1999
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell1999
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell1998
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell1997
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell1996
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYLAW OFFICES OF JAMES N PAPIRMEISTER1995 - Present
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Prince George's County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
Montgomery County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
Maryland State Bar AssociationMemberN/A
District of Columbia Bar AssociationMemberN/A
Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys AssociationMemberN/A
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMemberN/A
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
APPEAL BRIEF, AND REPLY BRIEFSTATE OF MARYLAND v. BRISCOE2000
APPEAL BRIEF AND REPLY BRIEFSTATE OF MARYLAND v. JANES1998
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of Maryland School of LawJD - Juris Doctor1985
University of Maryland, College ParkBA - Bachelor of Arts1981
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
37th Annual Deborah T. Creek Criminal Practice Institute"The Wrongfully Convicted"2001
GUEST SPEAKERCRIMINAL LAW1997
CRIMINAL JUSTICE CLASSCRIMINAL DEFENSE1997
CRIMINAL JUSTICE CLASS LECTURERCRIMINAL DEFENSE1996
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
STATE OF MARYLAND v SORORITY SISTERAll charges dismissed.
STATE OF MARYLAND v. POLICE OFFICERmisdemeanor with no conviction, no jail and early expungement granted.
STATE OF MARYLAND v. MEDICAL DOCTORBoth cases resulted in full acquittals as to all charges

Reviews

(15)
5 Star
93%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
7%
1 Star
0%
Review James Papirmeister

Thankful Client

Posted by

Mr. Papirmeister is an extraordinary lawyer and person. I personally was arrested and falsely charged with 10 misdemeanors and a felony. From the initial consultation to the dismissal of charges Mr. Papirmester handled my case efficiently and with care. I sincerely would recommend him to anyone looking for the best possible results. Again i would like to thank Mr. Papirmiester and his staff and i wish them the best regarding their future endeavors.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Devoted! Integrity! Passionate!

Posted by

Mr. Papirmeister. I truly want to thank you for working and handling my son's case. You are genuine, sincere and has a heart full of compassion for your clients. It's truly been a pleasure to meet you; however, not under these circumstances, but nonetheless, I truly believe God does all things well. Thank you for commitment and dedication to the legal system. It's rare that you come across someone such as yourself who has dignity and integrity in their field of profession. Thank you for taking the time to really speak to my son and to address his needs in a legal manner as well as being able to connect and reach him on an emotional level. As always, I thank you for your service and for going over and beyond the call of duty. May God forever bless you and your family always.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Outstanding Attorney

Posted by

If there is a rating higher than outstanding, I gladly rate Mr. Papirmeister as such. Mr. Papirmeister is a first class, highly respected attorney. He is thorough and meticulously chart out his strategy for a case, and methodically follows that plan. He works diligently behind the scenes with other legal professionals to reach the very best outcome for his clients. Not to mention, he works his magic in the courtroom with legal professionals such as the attorneys, prosecutors, judges and law enforcement. I saw with my own eyes how these individuals highly respect him when they interact with him, as they know they have a true champion in the courtroom. He gives a client 100% representation, and he will fight for you. He is very knowledgeable of the law and will exhaust every possibility to ensure his clients can come out on top of a legal matter. I truly feel blessed that Mr. Papirmeister represented me. He saved my life. I am forever grateful to him. I definitely highly recommend him to anyone who needs an outstanding attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Highly Knowlegeable, Conscientious and Worth Every Penny

Posted by

Mr. Papirmeister gives clients personal attention and takes the time to answer questions. He has many years of experience in criminal defense and a winning record in court. His initial consultation was very thorough and he took the time to really understand what happened and what are the charges. He took the time to review evidence and to develop legal arguments that will stand up in court. In the case where someone has a medical reason for what happened to them, Mr. Papirmesiter works with investigators, specialists and even expert witnesses in order to get the best outcome. You definately have someone on your side when you hire Mr. Papirmeister as an attorney. He is worth every penny because he will bring you peace of mind and justice in court.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Great Attorney

Posted by

Mr. Papirmeister represented me in a matter. He is very knowledgeable, friendly and really a great attorney. If you hire Mr. Papirmeister, you are hiring one of the best.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS

Posted by

Mr Papirmeister has restored my faith in the legal profession. The most caring, compassionate, knowledgeable and competent lawyer I have ever met. He delivers what he promises. He defies all the stereotypes painted of attorneys. His office staff is awesome. We were facing a very serious and seemingly hopeless situation . After very timely explanations and really listening to us talking on and on, Mr Papirmeister made us believers. We are deeply indebted to him. He truly is a lawyer's lawyer. He works hard for his clients. He makes you feel he is in your corner every step of the way. He was given the gift of communication and caring.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

amazing DUI/trial attorney

Posted by

Mr. Papirmeister is truly an amazing and capable defense lawyer. I was charged w/ five different DUI/DWI related charges and they ALL got dismissed. He was offered a DWI-guilty plea deal from the prosecutor for having all the other charges dropped, but he ended getting me a 'negligent driving' plea deal for having ALL the other charges dismissed. This is beyond impressive and maybe even unheard of for those in my situation ( I refused to take the breathalyzer test which now I know is the worst possible situation) . Without even a trial, I went from a misdemeanor to a simple traffic ticket. If you want someone to actually fight for you and not just settle , Mr. Papirmeister is the lawyer for you. He likes to win and will fight for you.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Exceptional Criminal Defense Attorney

Posted by

Although I'm sure there's several good Criminal Defense Attorneys in the DMV, you'd be hard-pressed to fine one better then Mr. Papirmeister. As a former prosecutor, James is well connected and understands criminal law. I had charges brought against me that were shaky and filed out of spite. Nevertheless, It was very serious to me and a source of incredible stress. James was confident from the start and made me feel a bit more ease about the situation. In short order, James got the charges dismissed and completely expunged from the record. If your reading reviews I suggest you don't waste anymore time and give James Papirmeister a call.

Highly Pleased Client

Posted by

Words can not express my gratitude towards Mr James Papirmeister, this is one of a kind lawyer who knows his stuff from back to front. Not only is he caring but compassionate as well which is rare. If you want to be successful in your criminal case needs this is the guy you should contact. Brilliant is an understatement, I am pleased with his work. I met Mr Papirmeister during one of the toughest time of my life, I was in great need of a good lawyer since my situation was very delicate. I had a criminal case against me and that was going to jeopardize my immigration status. The way Mr James work around the clock to ensure my case was handled with diligence and great care, he was on top of things all around. He put all his expertise in my case and his effort to get a great outcome payed at the end as the end result worked in my favor. The one thing that really stood out was the fact that he not only help me with my criminal case but he had an experienced immigration lawyer Mr Chicas working together to ensure that my immigration status was reserved. I am in awe of his work I will %100 recommend him in any case you dealing with he will exceptionally do a job well done. I am a highly satisfied client!!!!!

Excellent Criminal Lawyer!

Posted by

At some point in their lives, almost everybody encounters a difficult moment that requires the engagement of not just a lawyer, but a very good lawyer who can truly protect your rights in an ethical yet aggressive manner, and can succeed in restoring your dignity. That point in my life came at the end of 2014, when I was charged with not one but two counts of criminal charges. I had never before needed to engage a lawyer, so my wife and I underwent an internet search without any clue as to what to focus on. We were blessed to come across a photo and outstanding reviews of Mr. Papirmeister. Without prior knowledge of any details related to him, we quickly realized from his client reviews, extensive experience, and skill set that he was someone we could trust with our future. Since the very first meeting, throughout the entire engagement which lasted roughly six months, Mr. Papirmeister was consistently responsive, trustworthy, and extremely knowledgeable, keepin me and my wife informed of every key development around my case. From the very beginning, we had no doubts about putting our full trust in Mr. Papirmeister. Throughout the six-month period during which the case lasted, I had a chance to get to know Mr. Papirmeister quite well. During that time, I had a chance to not only experience his wonderful soul as a human being, but also witnessed Mr. Papirmeister’s selection as one of the top lawyers in the Washington DC area which was published in the December 2013 issue of Washington magazine. He is a gregarious, kind, and decent man. I will never forget the impact his input, successful accomplishments and professionalism which all contributed to the best possible resolution of my case. Thanks to Mr. Papirmeister, all charges against me were dropped and my entire record was expunged from any public database. This is why I and my entire family are so grateful to Mr. Papirmeister and we would highly recommend him to anyone in need of such indepth knowledge, outstanding professionalism, and human decency.
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(6)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Jeffrey Henry, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 18, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Omid Azari, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. James is a walking legal encyclopedia and has a very good knowledge of Maryland law.

Robert Bonsib, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 25, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Paul Zukerberg, Personal injury Attorney on Sep 10, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse James 100%. He's one of the very best for P.G. County criminal or traffic.

Rebecca Cosca, Car accident Attorney on Mar 22, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Papirmeister is an outstanding criminal defense attorney with tremendous knowledge of the law and evidence.

Gary Gerstenfield, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 9, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Jim is a wonderful lawyer who truly breathes, eats and no doubt dreams about the law! There are a select few practitioners who are refered to as, "a lawyer's lawyer" - Jim epitomizes this well deserved term.

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