Sean William O'Neill

Sean William O'Neill

4.9
Rating: 5.3

Licensed for 28 years

Family Lawyer at La Crosse, WI
Practice Areas: Family, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense

115 5th Ave S #421., La Crosse, WI

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2023
See Details

About Sean

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Family 80%

Divorce, Paternity, Child Custody and Placement. Adoption. Grandparent Rights

30 years

80%
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy 15%

Specializing in Chapter 7 personal bankruptcy filings. Free confidential consult.

30 years

15%
Criminal Defense 5%

Misdemeanor and Felonies. Specialty in OWI defense.

30 years

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Wisconsin for 28 years

State: Wisconsin

Acquired: 1997

Good Standing

Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2023

Licensed in Iowa for 27 years

State: Iowa

Acquired: 1998

Inactive

Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2013

Location

O'Neill Law Firm, LLC

115 5th Ave S #421., La Crosse, WI, 54601

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Sean William O'Neill's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

44 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 10 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by Ben | December 20, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Great guy Great job Logical way!!!

Sean did excellent job in representing me. And what challenge and what a successful completion If your need to someone to have your back and go up to bat for you while having your best interest his priority This Guy should be your first and only call. No matter where you're at or what you do in... life and with your life sometimes things happen good bad or in between Having the right person behind your back is this is the key difference between success and failure! Some choices and actions can reap consequences for minutes or potentially life turns having someone put the right pieces of the puzzle together out of the gate is crucial they can be the difference between dealing with it forever or forgetting about it tomorrow somethings it easy but they will get easier with A simple phone call to Sean at Oniel law office.Little things can become babe very easily but is possible to make big things turn small but all the pieces of the puzzle must fit together or a way to make them fit together will work to as long as you have the right person in your corner!! I was dealing with an issue that continually came back to haunt me with no way out no one was willing to hear me out-kept trying just to be repeatedly kicked to the curve until I called him. I was told by the legislative bureau in Madison that you're not required to follow the law your required not to break it another words apparently you can bend it a little sometimes things happen that shouldn't be legal or maybe should be.Sean was able to convince a judge to basically violate a provision of a Wisconsin law because he went to bat for me and convince them that it was the right thing to do regardless of what was wrote in black-and-white!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So anyway shape or form you will find it if it's possible he will do it Best money ever sent spent Reasonable rates great confidence and knowledge He is legally intelligent and the most down-to-earth person it is profession i've ever met believe me unfortunately I've met a few He's the commonsense logical thinking type of guy He don't give up!!!!!!! Make the phone call to Sean and have a fighting chance don't make the same mistakes I did and rely on someone paid by the state this my friend is where your real troubles will be begin..... If he cant help u he'll tell you you won't be wasting your money here with him maybe were someone else but that would be stupid it's your choice :) remember it's discussion and choice you may not ever have again...... Our world in legal system changes daily as it seems tonal 100% satisfaction with this attorney if I ever needed attorney again Believe me it's on speed dial........ No offense but hopefully I don't need attorneys ever again. Thank you so much Shawn you definitely played a key asset in burying the hatchet per se! I guess it's fair to say sometimes you just need to the right people in your corner. Couldnt of done it without you. Cannot thank you enough-you have definitely changed my way of life as well as my family .......Time to. Put the past behind me and keep going forward. If you need attorney just call him ...Oneil law office. Thank you Ben C Wisconsin

Sean O'Neill

Replied last December 20, 2015

Thanks Ben. Your situation is why I do what I do. Getting that felony off your record was an amazing and rewarding event. Good things are going to happen. Call me when you are fire chief.

Posted by Jean | June 18, 2015 | Divorce & Separation

Client Review of Attorney Sean O'Neill

Upon the recommendation of a friend, I enlisted Sean O'Neill as my attorney to represent and guide me in a divorce action I was faced with. During our working relationship, I immediately discovered he possessed a full knowledge of the law and carried out his representation with authority, expertise a...nd professionalism. He responded to my questions via e-mail, telephone calls and written communication promptly and with clear instruction. He, without fail, kept me updated with accurate, thorough and timely billing invoices. I truly admire, trust and believe in Sean O'Neill and would recommend him, without hesitation, to anyone desiring a positive and successful outcome regarding any legal issue they may encounter.

Sean O'Neill

Replied last June 18, 2015

This is one I am particularly proud of. Rich doctor husband trying to forget all about his long term marriage. He had to pay.

Posted by Ryan V. | June 28, 2013 | Criminal Defense

Absolutely a Awesome Attorney, Highly Recommend Sean.

Sean O'Neill is a extremely knowledgeable and experienced Attorney. I was facing several serious charges and a felony charge that could have altered my life permanently. Sean listened to me, looked at all the facts and then used every resource needed to provide the needed evidence to clear my name. W...hat's more is I really felt I had someone who was in this with me. When I felt beaten he was there to remind me that I have rights and that I had to stay the course. In the end I think of Sean not just as an attorney, but as a friend. Sean provided better service than some big name firms and charged me reasonable fees when every other Attorney refused my Case. Highly recommended as long as you are open and honest Sean will make sure you are given the best possible outcome. Thanks Sean.

Posted by Dave & Rosa Mooney | February 07, 2013 | Family

David & Rosa Mooney

We have hired Mr. O'Neill on several occasions for family and business matters. He listened to our problems and was very knowledgeable on the legal problems in which he represented us. He was also very personable and friendly and always answered our questions. On one of our family cases he went abov...e and beyond what was required to do to help us. If the need arises we will continue to use Mr. O'Neill in the future, because he has served us well in the last 10 years.

Sean O'Neill

Replied last June 11, 2013

Long time quality clients. Appreciate their endorsement.

Posted by Steven Haas | January 22, 2013

Helped me when I needed it most!

He had cleared up the confusion of my case and pointed me in the right direction with confidence. Responded to a message I left with his assistant promtly and an over-all straight forward advisor.

See All Client Reviews

Sean William O'Neill's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Sean
Molly C. French headshot
Molly French

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean works very hard for his clients. He is thorough and extremely competent."

Kris Lynn Wright headshot
Kris Wright

Family lawyer | Oct 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have worked with Sean O'Neill in several complex cases over the years, and I am always glad when he is involved because he will not tacitly sit by the sidelines while I work the case. He is skilled in the use of both civil and criminal procedure. Sean is patient with his clients and works hard to advocate their positions. His professional colleagues in this area respect Sean. I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew R. Cromheecke headshot
Matthew Cromheecke

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean provides quality legal advice. He has the ability to analyze the law and the big picture for client consideration. I endorse this lawyer."

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant attorney and a highly respected one in the legal community."

Benjamin S Kuipers headshot
Benjamin Kuipers

Family lawyer | Dec 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. O'Neill's reputation proceeds him in the legal community. His clients will be happy. I endorse this lawyer."

Margaret Ahne Herlitzka headshot
Margaret Herlitzka

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean is a solid criminal attorney who has really learned his way around the courtroom."

Christopher Daniel Leroi headshot
Christopher Leroi

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. O'Neill is an exemplary attorney who I would recommend to everyone and anyone. Hiring him might very well be the best decision that you have ever made. His answers on Avvo are perfect. I have practiced for 24 years as a judge, magistrate, prosecutor, and private attorney and he is one of the best I have encountered."

Karyn T. Missimer headshot
Karyn Missimer

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean is a thorough and caring attorney. He is willing to take on the system; and I would not hesitate to recommend him to a client in need. You should not judge an attorney by a disciplinary hit, but rather their dedication and zealousness. Sean is above the bar in these areas."

Jessica L. Trudell headshot
Jessica Trudell

Criminal defense lawyer | May 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean O'Neill is experienced in many areas of law. I've seen him successfully handle cases in criminal defense and matters involving families and children. He is not afraid to handle complex cases and does a fantastic job on them. He is an approachable attorney that really seems to care about his clients, and his work shows that. I highly recommend Mr. O'Neill for all your legal needs."

Susan L. Jones-Molini headshot
Susan Jones-Molini

Criminal defense lawyer | May 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Sean has the skill, the experience, and the legal knowledge needed to excel in the courtroom and in the negotiating room. I have seen him at work. If you want an attorney who will work for you and fight for you, call Sean O'Neill."

Vincent Rust headshot
Vincent Rust

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nick Passe headshot
Nick Passe

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean has developed a reputation as a very solid criminal defense attorney. He is known as conscientious and a hard worker. He has a personality which allows him to negotiate effectively and a brain and the experience to do well in court."

Matisyahu Wolfberg headshot
Matisyahu Wolfberg

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer | Nov 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Daniel Mark Norland headshot
Daniel Norland

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the opportunity to witness Sean in a courtroom on several occasions as well as the pleasure of knowing him outside of the courtroom. As a colleague Sean is always willing to provide advice or insight when asked and he has earned a reputation around the legal community as an honest, hardworking, and talented attorney. As an advocate, Sean is one of few attorneys I know who both takes great pride in his work, and possesses the skill and work ethic to achieve admirable results. You would be wise to hire him as counsel for your case."

Bernardo Cueto headshot
Bernardo Cueto

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean is a very passionate advocate and works very hard at his cases."

Russell E. Hammer headshot
Russell Hammer

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 22

Relationship: Co-worker

"Sean is one of the smartest attorneys I know. Couple that with his sense of duty to his clients, his willingness to take on tough cases and his legal knowledge and skill and you can't go wrong."

Angelina Maria Monte Zinn headshot
Angelina Zinn

Unknown lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney O'Neill is an outstanding attorney with an excellent reputation. He is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession. I highly endorse him."

Tajara Dommershausen headshot
Tajara Dommershausen

Unknown lawyer | Jul 06

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney O'Neill has the knowledge and skill to effectively work for his clients. His common sense approach allows him to know how to best handle cases."

Howard M Lewis headshot
Howard Lewis

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Sean has an excellent reputation in the legal community as a strong affective litigator and fights hard and wins for his clients. He is an outstanding attorney."

Jim D. Scott headshot
Jim Scott

General practice lawyer | May 09

Relationship: Co-worker

"Sean is an honest, hard-working attorney who vigorously represents his clients interests. It was a pleasure working with him as a new attorney in La Crosse."

View All Endorsements
Stephen D. Chiquoine headshot
Stephen Chiquoine

Debt collection lawyer

Kris Lynn Wright headshot
Kris Wright

Family lawyer

Molly C. French headshot
Molly French

Criminal defense lawyer

Charles K. Kenyon Jr. headshot
Charles Kenyon

Criminal defense lawyer

Peter Charles Rotter headshot
Peter Rotter

Criminal defense lawyer

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Car accident lawyer

Benjamin S Kuipers headshot
Benjamin Kuipers

Family lawyer

Christopher Daniel Leroi headshot
Christopher Leroi

Divorce and separation lawyer

Susan L. Jones-Molini headshot
Susan Jones-Molini

Juvenile law lawyer

Jessica L. Trudell headshot
Jessica Trudell

Criminal defense lawyer

Daniel P. Ryan headshot
Daniel Ryan

Criminal defense lawyer

James L. Kroner Jr. headshot
James Kroner

Criminal defense lawyer

Nicholas J.B. Pasquale headshot
Nicholas Pasquale

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer

Kevin Terry headshot
Kevin Terry

Employment and labor lawyer

Teri A. Walter headshot
Teri Walter

Litigation lawyer

Danny T Matrafajlo headshot
Danny Matrafajlo

Personal injury lawyer

Todd Adam Orston headshot
Todd Orston

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  5.3 (Average)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2023.

Public Reprimand issued in WI, 2023

updated on 03/27/2024

Reprimand means an attorney did something wrong but may still practice law. The State gives the lawyer a public reprimand in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior. Details of the infraction are made part of the public record.

Reciprocal - Reprimand issued in IA, 2013

updated on 10/16/2016

This means that the attorney's misconduct in another state, or jurisdiction, also violated the rules for practicing law in Iowa.

Sean’s comment:

“This is NOT another reprimand. Its for the same thing in WI 7 years ago. This is all because a client gave me an unexpected bonus on a Public Defender case. I don't do Public Defender work anymore because of this nonsense. A DA in WI was given nothing for sexting crime victims due to his position. But since I'm not in position of power, I don't get the same consideration.”

Public Reprimand issued in WI, 2012

updated on 10/16/2016

Reprimand means an attorney did something wrong but may still practice law. The State gives the lawyer a public reprimand in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior. Details of the infraction are made part of the public record.

Sean’s comment:

“This is extremely misleading. Look at my case results, endorsements and client testimonials right here. I am one of the best. PERIOD. I have REAL REVIEWS from REAL PEOPLE. Check my website and my Facebook page. Can't buy the ratings and trust. AVVO is flawed. I was a 7.6 and would be an 8 or 9 if not for this axe grinding client . Hire me and see how I treat you. YOU will be my next endorsement.”

Honors

1999

Outstanding Leadership Award, BNI

1997

Order of the Coif, Drake Law School

1997

Law Professor Award, Drake Law Class 1997

Work Experience

2012 - Present

Owner, ONeill Law Firm, LLC

2002 - Present

Associate Partner, Fehr Law Office

1999 - 2002

Associate, Ablan Law Firm

1997 - 1999

Associate, Park O'Flaherty

Associations

2001 - Present

Centering Onalaska

Member

2000 - Present

Onalaska Lions Club

Member

American Trial Lawyers Association

Member

Wisconsin Academy of Trial Lawyers

Member

La Crosse Area Criminal Lawyers Association

Member

Wisconsin Criminal Lawyers Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Huge Divorce Win!!

Huge Win-- No maintenance/Alimony

OWI 6th ACQUITTAL AT JURY TRIAL!!

Acquittal by Jury Verdict

Lenient prison in horrific case

2 years Mental Hospital

50 g Felony drug case-- DISMISSED!.

Dismissal

ANOTHER HUGE TRIAL WIN

Total Acquittal

Probation in Child Abuse case

Probation

Misdemeanors come out of major felony case

Misdemeanor Plea

Another Huge Win

Dismissal.

Serious ES Revocation dropped

Revocation Dropped

Juvenile waiver hearing won

Judge dismisses waiver petition

Strangulation and Battery Acquittal by Jury

Felony acquittal by jury

State v. Greenwood OWI Jury Acquittal

Complete Acquittal

Big Divorce Victory -- Alimony for Male Spouse

Major victory on property division and maintenance

State v. Erik Daigle

Acquittal on Drunk Driving 5th

State v. Brian E. Pierce

Amendment from Drunk Driving 6th to 4th

State v. William Ogden

Acquittal

Jeff Carey, et. al. v. American Family Insurance

Settlement

Dorothy Wenzel v. American Family Insurance

Trial $67,000.00 recovery

State v. Virgil Stewart

Amendment from Major Felonies to Misdemeanor

State v. Tingleng Yang

Amendment from Major Felonies to Misdemeanor

State v. Erwin Beckom

Major Felony to Possession

State v. Peter A. Krump

Jury Acquittal

See More Legal Cases

Education

1997

Drake University Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

Publications

1997

Drake Annual Survey of Criminal Law Survey of Iowa Criminal Law

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline
    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2023
    Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
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