James Papirmeister - Lawyer in SILVER SPRING, MD

James Neil Papirmeister

Criminal defense Attorney at SILVER SPRING, MD

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Thankful Client

Devoted! Integrity! Passionate!

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.

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

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.
... Read more
37 years
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.
... Read more
37 years
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.
... Read more
37 years
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.
... Read more
37 years
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.
... Read more
37 years
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.
... Read more
37 years

PREMIER DEFENSE LAWYER SINCE 1986 HELPING MARYLANDERS. CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION.

JAMES N PAPIRMEISTER, ESQ.:

DESCRIPTIONSelected in 2015 Washington DC/Maryland Super Lawyers for Criminal , 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

8630 Fenton Street, Suite 320, Silver Spring, MD 20910 · Get Directions

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

Driver of Armored Car Gets 18 Months

Suspect Freed, Man Arrested After Voluntary Testimony

Judge Revises Sentence for Man Who Killed His Wife

Clinton Man Sentenced to Tolerance Program

Trial Avoided in Killing

Judge Rules Mistrial in 'Samaritan' Killing

Officer Cleared in Cameraman's Injury

Lack of Speedy Trial Results in Dismissal of Assault Case

Teacher Cleared in Teen's Death

Woman Acquitted of Manslaughter in Wreck

Respected Criminal Prosecutor Resigns

Killer No Match for 'Minute Man'

Photos and videos

Licensed for 36 years

State DC

Status Good Standing

Acquired 1989

Updated 06/08/2022

State MD

Status Active

Acquired 1986

Updated 11/30/2015

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact James

JAMES N. PAPIRMEISTER, ESQ.

(240) 654-0559 Office

(240) 654-0559 Mobile

8630 FENTON STREET

SUITE 320

SILVER SPRING, MD, 20910

criminalfirm.com/

Message Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

4.8 / 5.0

18 customer reviews

5 Star

94%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | August 6, 2016

Thankful Client

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.

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Posted by Antoinette | July 19, 2017

Devoted! Integrity! Passionate!

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Posted by Sergio | November 14, 2021

Truly Satisfied

James P. Delivered and went above and beyond on my case I am truly satisfied!

Posted by EB(MrsB) | August 9, 2021

Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in Maryland

Mr James Papirmeister is the best criminal defense lawyer in Maryland. If you want a criminal lawyer look no further. He’s the best. Mr Papirmeister handled my Peace Order case and criminal case (Both streamed out of the same issue) which was a silly case to begin with but to me it was a matter of my life and everything that revolved around it. My entire future, career, family everything depended on it to get this right the first time. And who could I trust more not to mess this up for me. The very best in Maryland. Mr James Papirmeister. No case is too small or too big for him. He will give 100% to it. He works very hard to ensure that you get the best representation. Because he is the only lawyer in his practice you can bet you will have his undivided attention. He responds to your calls, texts and emails very promptly and extremely politely. Even when I bombarded him with constant communications, most unnecessary, he never showed frustration but always responded professionally and put me at ease. He ensured he was open, frank and very transparent of all situations I may be faced with and explained all my options and put forward what would help me get the best outcome. As this was my first criminal case he ensured I was well informed of every step in my case so that I could have the outcome best suited to my situation without any complications. If I didn’t have Mr Papirmeister represent me I believe the outcomes in both cases could have gone terribly wrong. Thanks for his vast experience as a criminal defense lawyer, I was fortunate to have gained much from him. He is extremely honest in his dealings and will treat you with utmost respect and professionalism. I don’t believe I’ve seen any lawyer who is as good as him. Since he has handled my sons case as a minor more than a decade ago and my son too agrees that if I have Mr Papirmeister representing me then I have nothing to worry about. That I am in good hands. Because he will fight for his client with everything he’s got. You bet, once you hire him you can be rest assured you are in the best hands. Just follow his guidance and do your part and he will never let you down. He is the best. I hope I never come across another criminal charge ever again in my lifetime but if I do he would be the first one I would call. If you need a lawyer call Mr Papermeister. Have his office number on your speed dial [redacted]. He’s the best. I can’t stress enough what an excellent criminal defense lawyer Mr Papirmeister is. Thank you Mr Papirmeister! You saved my life. God bless you always and thank you for all you do. Thank you!

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Posted by Jason Breaker | November 12, 2020

Quality service

Mr Papirmeister is the best of the best a real life saver for me & my family he represented me more than a few times and gave me the best results I can get went above and beyond to make sure I was able to maintain my freedom to continue to take care of my family & responsibilities as a man always will be thankful and appreciate his outstanding service he provides you could never go wrong with hiring him to represent you with your situation I highly recommend it.

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Posted by anonymous | August 8, 2019

Outstanding Attorney

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.

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Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2019

Highly Knowlegeable, Conscientious and Worth Every Penny

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.

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Posted by Alex | March 27, 2018

Great Attorney

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.

Posted by anonymous | October 13, 2017

THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS

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.

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Posted by Tina | December 3, 2015

amazing DUI/trial attorney

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.

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Posted by anonymous | May 3, 2015

Exceptional Criminal Defense Attorney

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.

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Posted by anonymous | March 10, 2015

Highly Pleased Client

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!!!!!

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Posted by Boris | May 2, 2014

Excellent Criminal Lawyer!

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.

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Posted by Khan | March 7, 2013

Sr. James Papirmeister is a man with a plan!!!

To the best of my knowledge, i believe that this lawyer is a man of his word, and he is by far the best lawyer i have ever came across. Mr. Papirmeister looks at cases in a different view than everyone else, he helped to secure my future, i was in grave danger. God Bless Mr. Papirmeister for all the help he has given me in my case, i pray he and his family lives a long and healthy life. I Highly Recommend anyone that is looking for a lawyer to contact Mr. Papirmeister, He is a very professional and respectful man. Thank you again Sir.

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Posted by Client | February 21, 2013

A Lawyer's Lawyer

I have known James Papirmeister for more than 15 years. He is well respected and highly regarded. As a prosecutor he was known as, "The 10 Minute Man" because he consistently secured guilty verdicts in 10 minutes or less of jury deliberation. I am also an attorney and have a good reputation. When my son, a college freshman got into trouble, I asked Jim for help. He was supportive, thorough, professional and ultimately, effective. I deeply appreciate his assistance for my son.

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Posted by D.R. | October 20, 2011

My Entire Family Loves this Man

Mr. Papirmeister is both respected and somewhat feared by over-zealous law-enforcement officers who may be inclined to violate your Constitutional Rights in the pursuit of doing his/her job. If an officer is inclined to shirk his ethics he will regret doing so when Mr. Papirmeister is done with him...no antics or yelling, just patient and thurough exhibiton of facts and the lack there of.

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Posted by anonymous | April 15, 2009

James Papirmeister SAVED MY LIFE !

James Papirmeister defended me after I was charged with First Degree Murder and two Second Degree Assult on police officers , all on the same day in two different counties. Mr. Papirmeister personally provided intense case preparations and expert court representation that addressed all facets of my defense prior to me ever entering the courtroom. I was facing the Death Penalty or at best Life Without Parole . Today I am a free man thanks to God and the representation of the Best Criminal Defense Attorney, James N. Papirmeister,Esq. It is up to you to seize the oppertunity to choose the right Criminal Defense Attorney to save your life. Mr. Papirmeister is worth every cent he needs to represent you .

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Posted by anonymous | April 8, 2019

Generalists are not Specialists

Expensive and unprepared. Courtroom performance left a lot to be desired, especially when I should have hired the prosecuting attorney instead of my defense attorney. Do your homework before hiring an attorney and ask specific questions when conducting an interview. Ask whether or not the individual has successfully defended or prosecuted cases similar to yours and ask for references. General criminal law does not adequately defend against specific cases requiring a higher level of knowledge, involvement and commitment where clients cannot afford to have an attorney in 'discovery and learning mode' while your freedom is on the line. This attorney likes to amplify the worst-case scenario under the premise that he needs to be up-front and honest with a client to aggravate an already stressful situation. Lacks bed side manners and is financially avaricious.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
LAW OFFICES OF JAMES N PAPIRMEISTER
1995 - Present

Education

University of Maryland School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1985

University of Maryland, College Park
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1981

Legal Cases

STATE OF MARYLAND v SORORITY SISTER
All charges dismissed.

STATE OF MARYLAND v. POLICE OFFICER
misdemeanor with no conviction, no jail and early expungement granted.

STATE OF MARYLAND v. MEDICAL DOCTOR
Both cases resulted in full acquittals as to all charges

Associations

Prince George's County Bar Association
Member
N/A

Montgomery County Bar Association
Member
N/A

Maryland State Bar Association
Member
N/A

District of Columbia Bar Association
Member
N/A

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association
Member
N/A

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
N/A

View all associations

Languages Spoken

French

Honors and Awards

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2019

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2018

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2017

CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Washington DC Super Lawyers
2015

"TOP LAWYERS: CRIMINAL DEFENSE"
Washingtonian Magazine
2014

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2014

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2013

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2012

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2011

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2010

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2009

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2008

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2007

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2006

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2005

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2004

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2003

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2002

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2001

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2000

"Among Criminal Defense Lawyers Widely Respected For Their Work"
Washington Post Article on Top Criminal Defense Attorneys
2000

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
1999

"A Highly Regarded Criminal Defense Lawyer"
Washington Post Article on Top Criminal Defense Attorneys
1999

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
1998

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
1997

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
1996

View all awards

Publications

APPEAL BRIEF, AND REPLY BRIEF
STATE OF MARYLAND v. BRISCOE
2000

APPEAL BRIEF AND REPLY BRIEF
STATE OF MARYLAND v. JANES
1998

Speaking Engagements

37th Annual Deborah T. Creek Criminal Practice Institute
"The Wrongfully Convicted"
2001

CRIMINAL JUSTICE CLASS
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
1997

GUEST SPEAKER
CRIMINAL LAW
1997

CRIMINAL JUSTICE CLASS LECTURER
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
1996

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)

Given (5)

Endorse James

Jeffrey Henry

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Omid Azari

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
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 | Dec 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Paul Zukerberg

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 10
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

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Gary Gerstenfield

Federal crime Attorney | Sep 08
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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Paul Zukerberg

General practice