Eric Edward Clingan

I shopped around a bit before deciding to go with Mr. Clingan as my lawyer for a DUI charge in Fairfax County. His clear explanation of how he would approach my defense won me over. We went to trial, which ended up lasting a few hours. Eric's attention to detail and his knowledge of the law were i...ncredible. He cross examined the police office, found inconsistencies in the police report, and at one point even had the police officer confess that he had already made up his mind to arrest me before administering me the sobriety tests and breathalyzer! Mr. Clingan was full of surprises, each one seriously undermining in the state's case against me. I had never been in a courtroom before, but my trial seemed right out of the movies. Maybe I sound over the top, but I was so happy and relieved to have my DUI charge thrown out - saving thousands of dollars, not to mention the police record, and the hassle of losing my license (or having my driving restricted) for one year. What's more, I saw a very similar case tried before me, and - even though the other attorney seemed professional and tried his best to save his client - the defendant was still convicted. Mr. Clingan was a different story, and I am so glad I chose him to represent me.

I received many flyers after my arrest, but his spoke to my simple need to win my case. For my consultation he listened to my story once and then repeated it all back to me showing a thorough grasp. I was impressed. Communicating with him was very efficient. We went over the process and the pricing.... I knew I wanted to hire him but I waited a week and also talked to a lawyer friend. His location was also ideal for me. One initial bit of value after hiring him was that he went to the court for my initial appearance without me. Leading up to the court date we didn't talk much but he was available at short notice the one time I requested, and he did not need to waste much time recalling the details of my case. There were some strategic options in my defense which I was not sure about. He had a very reasonable way of discussing our options. We didn't decide on some key strategy points until just before we went into the courtroom and that turned out fine. I felt going in that I wasn't going to win because certain factors were lining up against me, but I was resolved that accepting the plea bargain would be too unjust. We did win and I was very satisfied that he made a couple of moves that helped get the decision in my favor, and provided me with key coaching.

Eric isn't like most defense lawyers, I could tell he felt a sense of compassion for my situation and has done all he can and more, and it has paid off. He goes in with a win attitude but is realistic, and does not sugar coat anything and allows you to prepare. I have a problem with marijuana, ...more so when life causes intense distress, and I have been charged twice in the last year. Eric fought to dismiss my first case and won! He has delayed the second one, and it allows me time to build an even stronger defense. I feel so lucky to have him. He is the best, and is reasonable so you would be foolish to pay someone else more for half of what Eric can do for you. He wins, and allows you to rehabilitate yourself and life at a faster rate. I cannot thank Eric and the NOVA law firm enough. I will continue to recommend him to anyone in minor or extreme trouble.

I was charged with a felony 5 and held without bond for about 2 months in the Fairfax County adult detention center. Mr Clingan was hired by my parents afterwards, he filed a motion for a bond. I was released on a $1000 bond few days after. He continued to fight for my rights and was able to get my c...ase dismissed, he also helped in the expungement process. My parents made the right choice, highly recommended!!

I was wrongly accused of a serious felony (fraud) which would have ruined my reputation in the business community and destroyed my small business. The stress was overwhelming. However, Eric was highly recommended to me by other lawyers and I am so grateful for their advice. First, Eric was able to... reassure me that my defense was strong. He personally investigated the charges and advised me that the case was winnable at trial. During our jury trial Eric put the prosecution in a box and challenged the witnesses with tough cross-examination. Finally, he pulled out a surprise move at the end of the trial which left the jury unable to find me guilty. My career is back on track and it’s all thanks to Eric’s phenomenal, aggressive approach.