Gary S Bernstein

PRO

Gary S Bernstein

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 50 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Towson, MD
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Violent Crime

210 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 100, Towson, MD

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Gary

Biography

Former assistant state's attorney. Rated as Super Lawyer and Best Lawyers in America.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 50%

I have been teaching how to defend DUI cases in Maryland for over 30 years. I have been recognized in Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America. I am a Specialist in these matters.

47 years

50%
Criminal Defense 30%

I handle all criminal cases whether felonies or misdemeanors. Drug cases, assaults, and sex offense cases make up the majority of my criminal practice. I am a former Assistant State's Attorney and was assigned to the Felony, White Collar Fraud Unit, as well as the misdemeanor unit. I am a Specialist in these matters.

47 years

30%
Violent Crime 20%

I have handled violent crimes as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney. Assault and sex offense cases make up a large portion of the violent crimes I handle. These are handled by special units in the State's Attorney's Office and you need a lawyer who regularly handles these serious matters. I am a Specialist in these matters.

47 years

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 120 minutes

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Licenses

Licensed in Maryland for 50 years

State: Maryland

Acquired: 1975

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Gary S. Bernstein, P.A.

210 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 100, Towson, MD, 21204

www.noplea.com

Gary S Bernstein's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

90 Client Reviews

Showing 76 - 80 of 90 reviews

Posted by anonymous | June 16, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Personalized Attention

More than anything, Gary earns quick confidence - which is essential when you are putting your future in someone's hands - via a thorough interview conducted with warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor at a time of high anxiety, when that level of humanity is needed. That is not to say that Gary so...ft pedals; quite the contrary, he tells it like it is, never sugar coating, but doing his homework to ensure the best outcome. The first time I spoke to him, he gave me his cell phone number - which I have had to use a number of times, when I've thought of "just one more question" - and he is never too busy to respond; I am amazed at how quickly he returns calls, if he isn't able to pick up right at that instant. Today, I had to call with a number of questions, and he was just as cordial as he was when I retained him over a year and a half ago, even though my probation ended almost a year ago. He handles a lot of cases in a lot of jurisdictions and is very knowledgeable.

Gary Bernstein

Replied last June 16, 2017

I get calls everyday from former clients with questions. I am your attorney and I tell you when the case if finished, call me about anything. I do not bill for calls and help like this. I expect "one more question" from you before the weekend is over!

Posted by Aaron | June 16, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

As easy as it gets

I got charged with a DUI, Gary did a great job in helping me only receive a PBJ. Because I only received a PBJ Gary also worked out a period of unsupervised probation. He's a knowledgeable lawyer thatll keep you at ease! If I ever had to do this again, I would choose Gary every time.

Posted by Eric | May 31, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

"Innocent ,In a sense"

My experience with Mr. Bernstein was life changing. The first time that I hired him at the age of 19, my family and I was so nervous of the outcome of my case, but thanks to Mr Bernstein we believe that he made a miracle happen. Some of the small details that I didn't see of any important's he worked... out on my behalf that benefited me long term. My second time that I hired Mr. Bernstein I was 21 years of age. I met him at his office and told him about the altercation which landed me in serious trouble. Mr. Bernstein pulled out a book from his library and pointed out how much consequences that was attached to charges that i was faced with, then he went over all of my options with me. When I looked in is eyes I seen a big disappointment. I didn't understand at the time because I paid him what he charge me for the case. I felt something that day which made me feel bad about myself. When I finally went to court Mr. Bernstein had the case thrown out. My family and I was so thrilled that I didn't go to jail that day. My friends and my coworkers all ask me if they could have Mr. Bernstein's number because they seen that this was the second time he saved me from going to jail. As I exited the court house Mr. Bernstein walked over to me with his briefcase and ask for a quick word. He looked in my eyes and said that if I ever got in any trouble that was self afflicting, to loose his number and never call him again. I was so confused because I was ready to celebrate the victory. So I ask him what did I do wrong. Mr. Bernstein said to me that, I was to good of a kid to waste my future getting in reckless trouble this way. Mr. Gary also said that he already has two Mercedes Benzes, and if I wanted to buy him a third one it wouldn't be from lawyer fees, it will be from my success in life and I could purchase another Mercedes for him through a act of kindness. He also said that as long as i would do good with my life he would always support me, but as long as I was being irresponsible, to loose his number. At that point he contributed to the biggest turn around in my life. Were I'm from 1 out of every 6 people get incarcerated, after released they return back to prison within 3 years. I've lost so many friends and family members due to the violence in the community that I grew up in. But because of the that conversation that Mr. Bernstein, I think before I make decisions and if I was of any irresponsible fault, I knew that I couldn't call Mr. Bernstein. That's when I realize that I trust him with my freedom and my life. I thank God for Mr. Gary because when I was 21 years old he seen something in me that I couldn't see in myself. I didn't become another statistic from my community. Now I made it to be 36 years old, I was able to resign from my job of 10 years to start my own business, I celebrate 11 years married this July, I have to wonderful kids, I'm a Deacon at my church, and Im able to mentor, employ, and help kids that's just like I was and I tell them all about my relationship with Mr. Gary also what it took to change my life. He also have been a advisor/ life coach to me and he have kept his word when he said that he will support me as long as I'm doing right with my life. This is why I'm led to believe that he is one of the biggest contributors to the quality of life that I live today.

Gary Bernstein

Replied last May 31, 2017

As I have told you, after my children you are the person I am most proud of. You told me years ago I was the father you never had, and my family knows you as the "African American son I never had." You are so much more successful than you wrote about in the review. Interestingly, I got a Towson University graduation picture yesterday along with a thank you from another client for making that possible. I explained to her parents that I would take care of her the same as if she was my daughter and she too is now on the road to success, but has a long way to go to catch up to you. I look forward to seeing you next week. "Dad"

Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Highly Effective Attorney

Gary is an extremely skilled professional who is not only "good on his feet" but introduces angles to the case that the average lawyer might not even have considered. During my first telephone contact with him, he seemed very abrupt and somewhat aloof, but I believe that was born of a heavy case loa...d and time management issues, not of disinterest. In my case, which was a DUI, he quickly assessed the steps I needed to take immediately, which proved very beneficial. The day before I was to appear in court he focused full attention on my situation and was totally supportive prior to my appearance before the judge. Once in court, his arguments on my behalf resulted in a much reduced sentence, much to my relief. In addition to his legal skills, Gary is a kind and concerned individual and I would not hesitate to ask him for a referral should I need a lawyer in another venue.

Posted by Richard | May 19, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Great lawyer!!!!

Gary is not just a great lawyer. He is a great person. He not only took a special interest in my case, he also was interested in my life. Gary represented me in a DUI case. He made sure I got the help I needed for my alcohol problem and PTSD. Gary also, by the way, got me the best possible outcome in... court. He did not just get me out of a jackpot he helped me change my life. I consider Gary a friend and yes, a great lawyer.

See All Client Reviews

Gary S Bernstein's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Gary
Daniel Warren Whitney Jr. headshot
Daniel Whitney

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jul 07

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Gary for 16 years. Gary is my go-to referral for my clients who need DUI and criminal defense representation. Not only does he know the ins and outs of the law, he knows the prosecutors and judges and is able to get excellent results consistently, whether by working out a deal or winning a jury trial. He is a passionate and straight-to-the-point attorney that I highly recommend."

Jonathan L Katz headshot
Jonathan Katz

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"From the first time I met Gary in 1991, he impressed me as completely focused on obtaining as much victory as possible. He is colorful, funny and all the more persuasive as a result. I recommend Gary."

Michael A. Taylor headshot
Michael Taylor

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Gary is a pillar in the Maryland DUI defense community. No one works or fights harder than Gary does when he defends his clients."

Harley O. Wagner headshot
Harley Wagner

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Having been a member of the National College for DUI Defense for over 10 years now, and as an annual attendee of two to three national DUI defense seminars, I have been privileged to get to know many of our nation's finest DUI defense attorneys. Gary Bernstein is undoubtedly amongst this select group. His reputation for professional excellence far exceeds the borders of Maryland. His reputation as a well trained, experienced, ultra talented yet deeply compassionate, DUI defense attorney is not only national but matched by very few. I proudly and loudly endorse Gary Bernstein. The citizen accused could be in no better hands. Period. The fact that he is a personal friend is but a bonus."

Christopher Flohr headshot
Christopher Flohr

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Gary is an outstanding lawyer. He knows the law and fights hard in court. Gary has over 30 years of experience and it shows."

View All Endorsements
Daniel Warren Whitney Jr. headshot
Daniel Whitney

Consumer protection lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2024

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2024

Lawyer of the Year, Best Lawyers in America

2024

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

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyer

2023

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2022

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2022

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2021

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2020

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2020

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2019

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2019

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2018

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2018

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2017

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2012

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2012

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2011

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2011

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2010

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2010

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2009

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2009

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2008

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2008

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2007

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

Work Experience

1979 - Present

Attorney, Gary S. Bernstein, P.A.

1975 - 1979

Assistant State's Attorney, State's Attorney's Office For Baltimore City

Associations

1995 - Present

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys' Association

Board of Directors

2000 - 2005

Committee To Revise Criminal Code

Criminal Defense Attorney Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Body Cam Reveals Drugs Not In Plain View

Dismissed

Breath Test Not Admissible

Breath Test Inadmissible

Harford County DUI Dismissal

Dismissed

Experienced defense counsel know the officer's routine

Dismissed

Handgun Dismissal

Dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

1975

University of Baltimore School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1972

University of Maryland, College Park

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2010

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney's Association

DUI Defense

2004

Maryland Continuing Legal Education Program

DUI Defense

2004

Maryland Continuing Legal Education

Criminal Defense

Publications

N/A

Criminal Practice and Procedure in the District Court of Maryland Criminal Practice and Procedure in the District Court of Maryland

N/A

Handling DWI Cases Handling DWI Cases

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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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