Licensed for 24 years

State VA

Acquired 1999

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

John Christian Gardner

Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney at Virginia Beach, VA

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Highly recommended

Amazing attorney

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Speeding and traffic ticket

40%

Protect your driving record and your insurance rates. Let us help you defend your traffic ticket. We also represent Out-of-State Drivers who receive a ticket while in Virginia. Areas of practice include: Reckless Driving General and Reckless Driving by Speed, Speeding, No Operator's License, Suspended Driver's License, Failure to Maintain Control, Following too Close, Failure to Yield, DUI/DWI,
... Read more
23 years
DUI and DWI

30%

Don't take a guilty plea for your DUI/DWI. We will try your case for reasonable attorney's fees.

23 years
Criminal defense

25%

Let us analyze your case before you make any decisions about pleading guilty. We can help you with: Assault & Battery, Domestic Assault & Battery, Malicious Wounding, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Distribution, Theft, Grand & Petty Larceny, Underage Possession of Alcohol, Drunk in Public, Assualt on a Police Officer, Obstruction of Justice, Resisting Arrest, Violation of Protective Order.
... Read more
23 years
Federal crime

5%

Traffic offenses and crimes committed on naval bases. Marriage fraud and document fraud.

18 years

I don't like to plead my clients guilty. They could've done that without my help. As an attorney, one of my most important jobs is to analyze your case and possible defenses and let the Commonwealth's Attorney (prosecutor) do its job by putting on its case against you. And my job is to defend. Too many times I see people in court pleading guilty for cases that would have the same outcome if it went to trial. Why plead guilty in cases like those?

If you've been charged with a reckless driving ticket, a DUI, an assault and battery, whatever your case is, don't give up your chance to potentially have your case dismissed. Let me do what I do best - fight for you, my client.

Contact me if you want a lawyer who won't take the lazy way out of your case. Let me defend you. or

Photos and videos

Contact John

Similar lawyers nearby

Gardner & Mendoza, PC

909 First Colonial Rd.

Suite 100

Virginia Beach, VA, 23454

Message Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

21 customer reviews

5 Star

95%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | November 4, 2017

Highly recommended

Mr Gardner handled a DUI case for us. He was always very prepared and professional. He explained the legal process in a way that we could understand and helped us to feel more at ease with our situation. Highly recommend Mr Gardner and legal team.

Posted by Dennys | October 3, 2017

Amazing attorney

Amazing I can’t be more grateful for everything work that he did that day. He is a lawyer who is going to defend you and not just take your money. I have a reckless driving charge 89 over 55 and I walk with a speeding ticket +9 miles. I’m telling you if you have any kind problem with the law call this man.

Posted by Edward | September 27, 2017

Thank you Gardner and Mendoza

Skilled legal counsel; great team of attorneys---persistent and tenacious: lucky break for me!

Posted by Carter | August 15, 2017

Excellent Lawyer -both charges dismissed

John Gardner is a great Lawyer. He explained all of the details about my case and all of the options that we could take. After deciding the route we wanted to go down, he stood by his word and made it happen. I had a possession of alcohol misdemeanor and a fictitious ID misdemeanor, both of the charges ended up getting dropped thanks to John Gardner. He is a great lawyer who I would recommend to everyone.

Read less

Response from John Gardner August 22, 2017

Thanks Carter! It was a pleasure to represent you.

Posted by Emilio | December 1, 2016

Thanks Mr. Gardner

I am extremely satisfied with Mr. Gardner's performance as my attorney in my reckless driving case! He was absolutely professional and spoke very highly of me as a client and sold me the best way possible and I am so greatful because the result was way better than we expected but that's how good of an attorney he is! I would recommend this man to anybody and I can guarantee he will deliver as he did for me! I have nothing bad to say about him at all because he is the epitome of what an attorney is supposed to be! Amazing job Mr. Gardner and thanks a million! You are worth every penny!

Read less

Posted by Sarah | November 16, 2016

Great Experience

I got a reckless driving ticket on the Eastern Shore driving home to New Hampshire from Virginia Beach. I called Attorney Gardner and he was the only lawyer who asked about my previous driving record and other personal details as well as gave me a thorough explanation of what to do next, even if I weren't to choose him as my lawyer. Being from NH, I did not want to have to go back to VB to go to court so he got my court date continued so I had time to take all of the necessary steps and in then when the time came, he went to represent me and got my reckless driving charge reduced to a $220 improper driving ticket even though I already had a should-have-been reckless driving ticket on my record (the cop gave me a break before). I would highly recommend Attorney Gardner, as he and his office are easy to communicate with and produce great results.

Read less

Posted by Tina | November 4, 2016

John saved the day!

I got my first driving ticket for, Reckless Driving, I was so scared and worried about so many things. John took my case and explained everything to me. When the court day arrived, I could hardly breath! He was so professional and very smartly stated the case. Within minutes the judge dropped everything!!! Thanks John, you really are the best!!!!!

Read less

Posted by Luis | October 12, 2016

Very sharp!

I received a speeding ticked on 264W going 86 in a 55. I knew I was screwed especially because I'm in the military. From the very start Mr Gardner gave me great advice on How to possibly lower my punishment. so I took action. The court date came and there was an evil Judge that had just sent someone to jail for speeding right before me. I was so nervous but John kept his cool and worked his magic. While we were up there it was the officers time to give a statement. John was listening carefully to everything the officer was saying and caught a fault. John caught a mistake which quickly led to the case being dismissed. Thank you so much John! aside from your great rates you provided the best legal representation I could have ever asked for!

Read less

Posted by Martin | October 12, 2016

Very happy

I was very happy with Mr. Gardner who represented me on a reckless driving by speed charge. He made me feel very comfortable during our consultation and that my charge could easily be reduced. He was very knowledable and recognised the ticketing officer made a mistake during the trial and was able to call it out. My case was dismissed on a technicality because of it. I'm very thankful for that.

Read less

Posted by Bryan Roberts | October 7, 2016

Hire John Gardner

Outstanding results on a reckless driving charge (80). He got it knocked all the way down to improper driving. Very professional and friendly individual that leaves you feeling confident after talking over your case. I was so confident in his abilities that I felt I didn't even need to be present in court to plead my case. Unquestionably the right decision to hire him if you find yourself in need of a traffic lawyer.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | June 3, 2016

John C. Gardner

Mr. Gardner represented my daughter for a reckless driving ticket in Newport News, VA. Little did we know that reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor. We spoke to another lawyer who basically scared us and told us that my daughter could go to jail. Instead of scaring us, Mr. Gardner reassured us. He and his paralegal gave us the information we needed, and we felt confident going into court with him. Thankfully we did. The day of court, the person in front of my daughter's case with a reckless driving charge was actually given jail time. My daughter's case was reduced to speeding and we all walked out very happy and relieved. I highly recommend Mr. Gardner and his team at Gardner & Mendoza.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | May 20, 2016

The legal system is not like it is on TV. Get a lawyer!

My first time ever involved with the courts. It was very traumatic for me. I initially thought I could represent myself because it was clearly a case of I was the one who was wronged. But after speaking with the courts I realized there was much to be navigated. Mr. Gardner explained the process, eased my concerns and fully represented me with concern and commitment.

Read less

Posted by Tammy | April 29, 2016

Fabulous Attorney

Attorney Gardner handled a traffic case for me in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He was very professional, and easy to talk with, and his attorney fees were very reasonable. My traffic charge was dismissed due to Attorney Gardner's hard work and knowledge of both the law and the local courts. I would recommend him to everyone who has a traffic matter in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

Read less

Posted by Michelle | March 29, 2016

Thank you!

My daughter received a reckless driving ticket going 60 in a 35 mph zone, so understandably, I was very concerned. In court, Mr. Gardner was able to get the reckless driving charge and ticket completely dismissed due to his knowledge of what the police officer had to present in court. Mr. Gardner was a familiar face to the judge and the clerks in the Virginia Beach courthouse. When we contacted John Gardner's office at Gardner & Mendoza, he and his staff made us feel comfortable by explaining the whole process to us. His track record and the reviews online helped make the decision to choose Mr. Gardner over other attorneys easy. I highly recommend Mr. Gardner. He gave us peace of mind and won the case too!

Read less

Posted by James | February 12, 2016

Excellent services

I appreciate what Mr. John Gardner did for me. Very professional and knowledgable with the system. He helped me alot with my situation. Best lawyer hands down. Highly recommended.

Posted by Michael | January 15, 2016

Great experience

I went to Mr. Gardner after a wreckless driving case was put against me in Virginia Beach. Me being active duty, stationed there only for schooling for a short time, got orders to my permanent duty station elsewhere. For a low cost, Mr. Gardner handled everything for me, without me having to come back for the trial. Just a few pieces of paper I got to him and I didn't have to worry about anything else. I would recommend Mr. Gardner to anyone. The staff was very helpful, professional and friendly.

Read less

Posted by emmanuel | January 12, 2016

lawyer

Excellent lawyer,very professional,help me out with my tickets.

Posted by David | May 22, 2015

Dismissed

I work for FEDEX im a driver and I really needed this charge dismissed my job depended on it and with John Gardner on top of things it was a win situation so grateful he got my speeding charge dismissed this morning thanks John Gardner and Gardner and Mendoza your the BEST!

Posted by Julio | May 15, 2015

Completely satisfied

Was able to help me out a lot with my case. I'm active duty military and couldn't ask for better help. A+ overall and would deffinitly recommend to anyone I know!

Posted by Sebastian | December 21, 2014

Excellent!!!!

Gardner and Mendoza Law Firm is a great law firm no matter what kind of situation you may be in! For example I had court today, John Gardner, my attorney represented me today and got the charged dismissed totally the first time we both appeared in front of the judge in Virginia Beach Traffic Court. He uses every bit of knowledge he can to help you get the best results!! He also works very well with Latinos! They have a Spanish speaking person in their office at all times!!

Read less

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Founding Partner
Gardner & Mendoza, P.C.
2000 - Present

Adjunct Professor
Old Dominion University
2000 - 2017

Education

Seton Hall University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1998

The Ohio State University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1991

Legal Cases

United States v. Elena Valeeva
Not Guilty

Associations

Federal Bar Association (Tidewater chapter)
Treasurer
2014 - Present

Federal Bar Association (Tidewater chapter)
Secretary
2013 - 2014

Languages Spoken

Spanish

English

Honors and Awards

BEST LAW FIRM
The Virginian-Pilot
2017

Top Lawyer
Coastal Virginia Magazine
2016

Certificate of Appreciation
Norfolk Public Defender
2011

Certification
Virginia Indigent Defense Commission
2010

Certification
University of Virginia School of Law Trial Advocacy Institute
2003

View all awards

Publications

Old Dominion Bar Association
PADILLA V. KENTUCKY: WHAT IT MEANS FOR CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS
2015

Speaking Engagements

Old Dominion Bar Association 75th Anniversary
Criminal Law & Immigration
2015

Norfolk Public Defender Training
Consequences of Criminal Convictions
2014

Virginia Bar Continuing Legal Education
Criminal Convictions and Immigration
2013

Judicial Bench Bar Conference - Norfolk
Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions
2011

Virginia State Bar, Young Lawyers Conference
Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions
2010

Virginia Beach Bar Association Continuing Legal Education
Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions
2010

National Public Radio Guest
DUI, Bond and Immigration
2007

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (13)

Given (6)

Endorse John

Katherine Currin

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

"I endorse Mr. Gardner, especially for overlapping matters concerning immigration and criminal law. His expertise is valued by many attorneys in our community who look to him for guidance in this area."

Amir Soleimanian

Unknown Attorney | Oct 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brian Gillette

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If you are an immigrant facing a criminal charge, you would be wise to consult with Mr. Gardner."

Edrie Pfeiffer

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is an excellent advocate for his clients, especially those who are immigrants to this country. His representation goes beyond the basis of their criminal case but he also looks at the impact that the criminal case could have on their immigration status. I highly recommend John to anyone who is facing a criminal charge."

Katherine Wilcox Carter

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is an excellent criminal attorney, but he really shines when it comes to representing immigrants who have been charged with criminal offenses. He's professional, polished, and always prepared. I definitely recommend John!"

Jim Haynes

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"It is always a pleasure to refer clients to John because I know they will receive the best defense possible. John is very innovative in his approach and therefore gets a better result than other attorneys"

Wayne Holcomb

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is very knowledgeable and highly respected in the community. I highly recommend him!"

Radlyn Mendoza

Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Co-worker

"John loves to win and get positive outcomes for his clients. He challenges the government on every detail and doesn't roll over and plead his clients guilty for standard dispositions and outcomes. John knows the relevant law inside and out and will be a wonderful advocate for anyone who hires him."

Kellam Parks

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend John for criminal defense and traffic ticket needs. He does an excellent job and, paired with his wife Radlyn, has the additional dimension of handling immigration needs and its impact on his practice areas."

William O'Mara

Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Oct 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is an accomplished criminal defense and traffic attorney in both federal and state courts. He is one of the few criminal defense lawyers I know with a federal jury trial acquittal under his belt. John is experienced and commited to to his clients."

Jim Hurley

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is a highly regarded criminal and traffic defense attorney, who is respected by his clients and peers in the legal community. I highly recommend John for any criminal and traffic case. He is also particularly knowledgeable about the immigration consequences of certain criminal convictions. He is a top-notch advocate."

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Grover Baxley

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. John is a well-respected criminal defense lawyer. He zealously fights for his clients with outstanding results. I routinely refer clients to him for representation because I know he will do a great job for them."

View more endorsements

Edrie Pfeiffer

Chapter 13 bankruptcy

Identity theft

Immigration

Family

Personal injury

Personal injury

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

John Christian Gardner

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

Photos and videos

Photos and videos

Contact John

Similar lawyers nearby

Reviews

Cost

Resume

Avvo Rating

What determines Avvo Rating?

Experience & background

Legal community recognition

Legal thought leadership

Discipline

Avvo Rating levels

Work Experience

Education

Legal Cases

Associations

Languages Spoken

Honors and Awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

Attorney endorsements

Avvo Contributions