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Gal Pissetzky

Sex crime Attorney at Chicago, IL

4.9   34 reviews
Licensed for 23 years Virtual consultation available
Licensed for 23 years Virtual consultation available

About Gal

Learn Gal’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Federal crime
    20%

    23 years

  2. Sex crime
    20%
    Lawyers whose practices focus on sex crimes understand the unique problems you may face if you are accused of rape, sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, or internet luring, among other charges. These cases can be complex and require a specific legal knowledge that will help you understand your rights and the possible outcomes of the charges. A qualified sex crimes lawyer will also be familiar with sex offender registration requirements.

    23 years

  3. Violent crime
    20%

    23 years

  4. White collar crime
    20%

    23 years

  5. Criminal defense
    10%
    I wanted to highlight the actual focus of my practice as a criminal defense lawyer, which is defending people accused in Federal and State court of very serious felonies such as White Collar crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes and drug crimes.

    23 years

  6. Drug Crime
    10%

    23 years

TRUSTED, POWERFUL, AGGRESSIVE, AND WELL RESPECTED. REPRESENTING CLIENTS IN COMPLEX CRIMINAL CASES.

For the greater part of the past two decades, Gal Pissetzky devotes his life to defending the rights of those accused with a variety of state and federal criminal felony charges. Mr. Pissetzky has taken over 100 cases to trial both before a jury and before a judge. He has litigated countless motions in which law enforcement violated his client's Constitutional rights. Mr. Pissetzky has handled multi-issue complex trials and appeals. He has argued before the Illinois Supreme Court, as well as numerous Illinois and Federal Appellate Courts. His practice focuses only on defending clients accused of federal crimes, white collar crimes, sex offenses, large-scale drug crimes, and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder and gun offenses.

He has been vigorously representing clients in both the state and federal court systems. Located in Chicago, he represents clients throughout Illinois and the country. Mr. Pissetzky prides himself on providing superior client service. He is truly dedicated to protecting the rights of his clients and preserving their future.

Mr. Pissetzky combines his vast legal knowledge with his superior understanding of the court systems to provide the best possible defense for his clients. He will listen to his clients, conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation, and analyze the applicable law in light of the specific facts in order to pursue the best defense possible.

Mr. Pissetzky is a well-respected member of the legal community. He has represented many clients in high-profile cases, and is frequently quoted in the press. He regularly appears on TV as the legal consultan/advisor regarding high profile criminal cases. He was named one of Illinois' Rising Stars 2011™ by Super Lawyers ®magazine, as well as one of the "10 Best Client Satisfaction" attorneys by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, and "Top 100 Trial Lawyers: Illinois" by The American Trial Lawyers Association.

Mr. Pissetzky began his successful career as a defense attorney in 2002 after spending four years with the Cook County State Attorney's Office. He obtained his J.D. from the John Marshall Law School. He is a member of the Illinois Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Awards

Client's Choice 2018,2017,2016,2015
Client's Choice
2018 2017 2016 + 1 ...

Photos and videos

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Licensed for 23 years
State IL
Status Active and Authorized to Practice Law
Acquired 2000
Updated 04/01/2023

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

Contact Gal

Pissetzky Law LLC
35 E. Wacker Dr
Suite 1980
Chicago, IL, 60601

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  34 customer reviews
5 Star
 
97%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
3%
1 Star
 
0%
Client's Choice 2018
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by George | August 7, 2015
Phenomal attorney
What can I say about an attorney who went above and beyond. I was fighting a Federal case for 4 years with Gal by myside he fought for me all the way. Was told i was going to serve 7 years and walked away with 2 years probation. If you want a lawyer to go to bat for you and do his job then i highly recommend Gal.
Posted by Juan | April 22, 2015
Gal saved my life!!!
In July 2012, I was indicted on 2 Federal charges stemming from a 5 year investigation (2007) in which I was the target of 3 governmental agencies (FBI, DEA, Cook County Sheriffs Police). I was facing 5 years in prison for being an informant's pawn. Then next 3 years were nothing short of a nightmare. I lost my job, my dignity, and almost lost my family. From day 1, of my indictment however, my wife and I were astonished and very much satisfied by Gal's professionalism and demeanor towards the Federal prosecutors, agents, and judge. Gal became knowledgeable with my background and researched my case (5 years worth of police reports) with a fine comb. The case took approximately 2 1/2 years to go to trial and another year or so for sentencing. During that timeframe, I struggled finding employment, family issues arose, and I became mentally drained. Gal showed compassion for me and I know he truly cared for me as a person, not just a client; but he never lost focus of my case. During my trial, Gal showed passion in representing me. Gal fought till the very end, winning key motions that would have changed the dynamics of my trial & verdict. In the end, Gal beat 1 of the 2 charges. I was eventually convicted for: "making a false statement to a federal agent", and was facing up to 6 months in prison. During my sentencing hearing in April 2015, Gal again fought for me relentlessly till the very end. He fought to get me the lowest points under the Federal Sentencing guidelines. Eventually, I faced my fate; I received 6 months of probation. This case has been the most humbling experience I've ever endured in my life. I am happily employed now, spend a lot of time with my wife and children, and have my dignity again. I am forever indebted to you, Thank you Gal!
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Posted by CD | July 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
CASE DISMISSED
I was facing 10 years in federal prison. With all the evidence stacked against me and my former attorney suggesting that I take a plea…it was Gal who told me that the case could be beat and urged me to fight. Gal’s due diligence, preparation and knowledge of the law earned my trust. He did an excellent job in communicating the process which put me at ease. His skillful line of questioning caused the DEA agent to blatantly admit in open court that I was racially profiled. Because of this admission, the motion to suppress was granted and the case was dismissed. I am extremely grateful to Gal for his optimism and ability to deliver.
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Posted by Andrea | September 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely Wonderful Attorney!!!
Gal is extremely professional and works hard for his clients. I am forever grateful to have had him as my Attorney. Thanks to Gal this extremely scary and stressful situation was worked out without jail time!!! I highly recommend Gal for anyone who has run into trouble with the courts!!!
Posted by Alejandro Martinez-Medina | February 27, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I will recommend him to anyone who really needs the best attorney!
“I extend these words of admiration to the lawyer who, with his skill and abilities, managed to defend me in a case that seemed lost. I will never get tired of thanking life for having found you on my way, without you, I would be doomed. I owe you my freedom. ” I trusted you and I wasn't wrong, thank you very much Gal!
Posted by anonymous | December 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer I've ever met
Wow is all I can say. How can an attorney do what Gal Pissetzky has done for me? After over 10 years with previous counsel fighting month after month in the Lake County IL court rooms. I finally found Mr. Pissetzky. He, for a lack of a better phrase, has saved my life. I was told it was basically impossible to get a felony changed to what it should be in my case, a misdemeanor, but Gal Pissetzky was able to have my conviction vacated for a much much lesser sentence after over 10 years of fighting with a lawyer that seemed to be great...but wasn't!!! I am forever grateful. All I can say is that if you feel like you've hit the end of your road and that your legal troubles will always get the best of you, get rid of that mindset and call Gal Pissetzky. Simply remarkable what he has done for me and my family. Literally don't even go to another lawyers website, don't just go with some attorney a family friend referred you to. Just stop with Pissetzky and Berliner, LLC. He not only cares, but has people in the right places and does things the right way!
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Posted by anonymous | August 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer
I’ve attempted many times to find the perfect words to express my deepest gratitude to Gal. I was charged with first degree murder and it was the worst thing to ever happen to me. Gal was with me from the beginning and made a horrible process easier. I spent 2 months in jail until gal was able to get me out on bond so I could spend my days with family. After working his magic he was able to get me a great plea deal for involuntary manslaughter where I would get 18 months total. Thankfully I spent 12 months on house arrest and that left 4 more months time. Gal gave me back my life and hope. He was always there and if he couldn’t be he made sure his associate Adam was. They were both fantastic and professional and I will always be grateful for what they did for me. Great lawyers! Highly recommended!
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Posted by MICHAEL | February 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Satisfied client
Gal & his team went above and beyond to ensure I completely understood what my legal process had the potential to be, as well as what he was hoping to achieve with my court case. At no point within the legal process did I feel like just another case to him. He had a personable, relatable touch that all my other consultations missed. He really made the best possible outcome come to life from a circumstance that felt grim since the beginning. I absolutely would recommend Gal & his team to anyone in need of a great lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | December 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Criminal Lawyer
When I was indicted, I did my research to find the best lawyer to represent me and I made some bad choices in the process...and It cost me a lot of money by picking the wrong one. In my next search, I came across Gal, and he was a godsend. Not only was he attentive, but he explained my case and how he would approach it. He is full of knowledge and I can't have chosen a better criminal lawyer. He knows his stuff. I just wished that I hired him the first time around. If you read this and are in trouble with the law and need some excellent representation, I highly recommend Gal. Don't waste your time, hire the best out of the get go, you'll be glad you did. Don't believe what some lawyers would tell you, they just want your money, believe me, I went thru all of that. Good luck!
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Posted by anonymous | July 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
NOT GUILTY
Fought a class x felony drug charge for almost 6 years, had 3 different lawyers. Every lawyer thought I should have copped out, none of my previous lawyers wanted to take it to trial. Not only did Mr. Pissetzky take it to jury trial, he beat it. Even the Judge was stunned. He’s the attorney to go with if you really want someone that doesn’t like to lose.
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Posted by Edwin | April 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Truly Wonderful Lawyer
Gal was hired by my family to defend a family member. Throughout the whole process Gal kept us informed of what was going on in the court and continued fighting hard for my relative. Even during set backs, he kept his cool and let us know how he planned to continue the bogus charges that the state was alleging. Ultimately, Gal won because of his strong desire to fight for true justice. I highly recommend Gal and his law firm Pissetzky & Berliner for anyone that is looking to defend criminal charges.
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Posted by Andres | April 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
We are SUPER BLESSED to have found a great attorney like Mr. Pissetzky. He helped me in a legal situation that would have been a nightmare for my wife, kids, and family. We were truly blessed that GOD put him in our path. He was always available and if he wasn't he made sure one of his attorneys were present to represent. Plus, Ian and the rest of the staff are great people ready to help and answer our questions. We truly recommend them.
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Posted by Ronald | March 12, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer with a Heart!
Tough lawyer who knows the law by heart!He is God sent!A defender with compassion,will guide you all the way!I am so happy and blessed to have Atty.Gal as my defender!
Posted by Vincent | February 2, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If You Value Your Freedom then Retain Mr. Pissetzky!
Mr. Pissetzky is an extremely professional and hard-working attorney. He succesfully negotiated with the Federal Government to remove 2 of the 3 charges, one of which carried a 15 year mandatory miniumum sentence. Furthermore, Mr. Pissetzky successfully argued that several of the guidlines did not apply to my case, resulting in a lowering of the number of years I could have received in a "guidline sentence." Finally, Mr. Pissetzky was not only capable of convincing the prosecuter to not insist upon a guidline sentence, but also successfully argued to the judge to give me the miniumum sentence possible. Mr. Pissetzky is without a doubt one of the best lawyers you will find in this country. Whatever the circumstances of your situation, he will fight tooth and nail to get you the best outcome. If you value your freedom then retain Mr. Pissetzky.
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Posted by Carla | January 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very happy
After using another attorney for over year and getting nowhere I was very happy to meet Gal. He had a lot more valuable advice and information I’m so sorry we wasted money and on someone else. The case went much faster. And the outcome was the best we could hope for. Not only that he was a very nice man who took calls whenever I had a question and sometimes they weren’t even about the case. I would highly recommend him to anybody new or even if you’re not getting done with the attorney you have. He and Adam were a great team great to work with would never hesitate to use him again. I just hope I don’t have to !
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Posted by Sandra | August 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Gal Pissetzky is an Outstanding Lawyer
Gal Pissetzky helped our family out in a legal situation that to many like myself would seem like a true nightmare. It didn't matter the time I called he was right there to answer my call and help me out. He was able to find out information on our legal matter and met up with me to explain in more detail about the case and what to expect. Trusting our family's well being and future in Gals hands is the best decision we've ever made. He was able to take our case and represent us in court allowing my fiancee to be set free and come home to his family. Through out the entire case Gal was very professional and was able to give us the best out come possible all thanks to his hard work. I truly recommend Gal Pissetzky. He is an outstanding Lawyer. His moral support was a plus. I thank him for his services indefinitely, if it weren't for him our family wouldn't be smiling again.Thank you Gal Pissetzky for all you've done for us!
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Posted by Scott | July 26, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Defense Lawyer
We hired Gal to represent our Son, who was facing 2 aggravated robbery w/ firearm charges, as well as a class X possession charge. The robbery charges were mandatory minimum 21 years each, so this was a life and death issue for our Son. Gal was supportive and communicative, as well as good at trying to negotiate with the prosecutors involved. Our Son ended up getting only a couple of years after some charges got reduced, and some dropped. This was a better outcome than we ever anticipated. We highly recommend him, and would use him again in a heartbeat if needed, Thanks Gal!
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Posted by Wyatt | June 16, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An honorable man.
When I needed help he answered. I'm so great full to have had his services aid me in my time of need. I'm more than fully satisfied, he is one of the best. There needs to be more people like this in the world who will take the time to help someone like me. Words cannot express.
Posted by anonymous | January 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience
Gal was retained following multiple felony charges. He was extremely sharp and professional. He seemed extremely knowledgeable and experienced. He was very available, and answered all of my messages very quickly. I was very pleased with the results and would recommend him to anybody.
Posted by Lucy | January 5, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Gal is a RockStar!
My case was a long and arduous process, so Gal had to put up with me for several years… and I am not an easy person to tolerate! Fortunately, his work ethic was nothing short of stellar and he made himself available whenever I had questions or needed clarification regarding any legal specifics. He made the process fairly painless to endure; and even though I wasn’t hopeful regarding the outcome of my case, Gal absolutely shined in the courtroom which resulted in a favorable verdict. I couldn’t be happier – Thanks Gal!
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Pissetzky & Berliner, LLC
  • 2006 - Present
  • Partner
  • Meczyk & Associates
  • 2002 - 2006
  • Assistant State's Attorney
  • Cook County State's Attorney's Office
  • 2000 - 2002

Education

  • John Marshall Law School, Chicago
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2000
  • University of Illinois, Chicago
  • BA
  • 1997

Legal Cases

  • Documentary of the Sinaloa Carter
  • www.pbzlawfirm.com
  • View my case reviews on my website

Associations

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Lifetime Member
  • 2000 - Present
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • 2000 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish
  • Hebrew
  • Polish
  • English
View all languages

Honors and Awards

  • Featured Attorney
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • 2018
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyer
  • 2011
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • 2010
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • 2009
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • American Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2007
  • Cum Laude
  • John Marshall Law School
  • 2000
  • Honors
  • University of Illinois, Chicago
  • 1997
  • "10 Best Client Satisfaction" Attorneys
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • N/A
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers: Illinois
  • The American Trial Lawyers Association
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (24)
Given (14)
Endorse Gal
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked with Attorney Pissetzky on several matters and find him to be very knowledgable and aggressive. An excellent attorney."
Federal crime Attorney | Feb 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Highly recommend this fine lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 13
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Gal is one of the most knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorneys in Chicago and throughout the State of Illinois. A gifted and tenacious litigator, Gal has successfully defended cases at both the state and federal level. His dedication to his clients is unrivaled--you can be sure he will fight for your "Not guilty.""
Federal crime Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gal Pissetzky is an excellent trial attorney. Without hesitation, I endorse Mr. Pissetzky as one of the toughest defense attorneys based in Chicago, Illinois."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Gal. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Attorney Gal Pissetsky who consistently exhibits a genuine dedication to comprehensive criminal defense based on attention to the case details, legal knowledge and keen intelligence to select the most optimal venues to defend client's interests."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gal is an highly intelligent, dedicated, and skilled attorney who gets results for his client's. As a fellow defense attorney, I have witnessed how Gal presents his client's cases with aggressiveness and precision. Gal's reputation as an outstanding trial attorney is well deserved."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gal was a colleague on the states attorneys office and I have seen him often in court since then. Gal is a tenacious litigator who will fight for the best disposition for a client. Gal is not intimidated and will fight for his clients in court with motions and trials. Gal is also well known for his federal court practice."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gal deserves his reputation as one of the most effective criminal lawyers in the city of Chicago. He is shrewd, tenacious and an expert strategist. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney."
Federal crime Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gal is a superb lawyer who has helped countless clients in the Chicago area. His dedication towards each case is a quality that every legal professional should possess."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Outstanding criminal defense attorney. If you or someone you know requires a strong legal defense, contact Gal."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gal has a passion for fighting the battle for his clients facing criminal charges. He does not give up and is not afraid to go to trial and confront the evidence against you. If you want an attorney who will fight for you till the very end then Gal is your attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I worked with Gal in the Cook County State's Attorney's Office and am very impressed with his skills. Mr. Pissetzky is very aggresive and fights hard for all his clients and is a top notch advocate to have on your side in court and during trials. He is a great Federal attorney and I often refer my Federal cases to him. Hiring Mr. Pissetzky would be a great decision."
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Criminal defense
Criminal defense
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Criminal defense
Criminal defense
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Personal injury
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Personal injury