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Harold Mark Garfinkel

Criminal defense Attorney at Chicago, IL

4.9   97 reviews

also known as Hal Mark Garfinkel

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  • State Years
    Illinois - IL 33 years
    Indiana - IN 13 years
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State IL
    Acquired 1989
    Status
    Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 13 years
    State IN
    Acquired 2009
    Status
    Temporary Admission Excluded No misconduct found

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

Mrs.
Amelia
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Looking for a lawyer? Well you found one.
Jerry
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
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About Harold

Learn Harold’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    60%
    Attorney Garfinkel is a fighter with a track record of success protecting his clients' rights and interests in high-profile cases. He is known for being aggressive, accessible and affordable – all qualities that can work in your favor today and in the long-term. You can go a long way toward reuniting with your family and restoring your reputation by contacting his office today.

    34 years

  2. Federal crime
    40%

    34 years

If it's experience, knowledge of the law, aggressive strategies, accessibility and affordability you are looking for in a Chicago criminal defense attorney, you will find all of those attributes and more at the law offices of Hal M. Garfinkel.

For nearly 20 years Mr. Garfinkel, a former prosecutor, has been making waves as a participant in many high-profile Illinois criminal cases. He can get results for you, too, whether your current legal situation involves a homicide charge or a DUI arrest.

This respected, veteran lawyer is Midwest-raised and educated, knows the people of the region and speaks their language. His former experience as a prosecutor gives him an insider's perspective of the prosecutor's office and its strategies. Mr. Garfinkel knows the system and will work hard on your behalf. At trial or during the appeal process, you will be impressed with the poise, creativity and passion of the quality representation he offers.

You will know from the very start of your relationship, from your free initial consultation onward, that Hal M. Garfinkel is the lawyer you want speaking for you. His 24/7 availability includes off-site, weekend or evening appointments, jail and police station visits and bond or bail hearing.

Contact Mr. Garfinkel right away by phone, fax or e-mail.

 

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Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney
120 N LaSalle St
Suite 2600
Chicago, IL, 60602
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Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0
  97 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by Amelia | December 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mrs.
Consulted with Mr. Garfinkel one day before trial in the evening and with the same sense of urgency we had, he took our case with the upmost of professionalism and priority. He went on and showed it in court. He got our case dismissed like he said he would. He is now definitely our go to lawyer for my family from now on!
Posted by Jerry | March 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Looking for a lawyer? Well you found one.
Hal as I call him is not only my Lawyer but gives sound advice as well. He's very professional and knows exactly what he's doing. If you looking for someone to trust in to handle your needs, Hal is by far the Best Attorney to hire. I again wanna say Thank You Hal for your services and I highly recommend you to Everyone.
Posted by anonymous | September 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and Genuine Lawyer
Hal is a great attorney! He knows the law extremely well and was adept at navigating the overwhelming legal process for us. He knows how to be tough when it comes to protecting his clients which we really appreciated. Hal is empathetic but BLUNT... Hal does not sugar coat the truth. However, that is what you need when dealing with legal issues!! Hal was extremely responsive and always willing to listen to questions, concerns and our general frustration. Hal was able to get out case successfully appealed because of his masterful communication skills. He showed the judge the obvious flaws and inconsistencies in the case which ultimately saved us. Thank you Hal for your hard work and we wish you even greater success!!!
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Posted by Jason | July 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
highly recommended
Hal is an expert with traffic court/drivers license issues- he was able to resolve my problem. I highly recommend him.
Posted by anonymous | May 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hal is a legend
When I first looked up Hal I wasn't sure if he was being overly confident, or if he was the real deal. He proved to me that he's capable of handling anything. In 48 hours he changed my life around. If you want an attorney who's going to do his best to make sure you're protected this is your best bet. I spoke to multiple lawyers from firms in Chicago area, all talked a big game but Hal was the only one I felt comfortable having as my attorney.
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Posted by Annette | March 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hal the Man
Lawyer Hal is the reason I am walking free today. He helped me through a case where I was completely innocent and was being charged with a case with a felony for up to 10-14 years. He is the reason I am able to breath peacefully again. He comes out with perspectives that the case didn’t even see. He picked up on the slighted glitch in stories from the opposing side and made sure he said what was needed to make me the innocent woman I am. Hal has a tough way of cutting through the nonsense and getting to what is important. I am forever thankful for him and his work to support me. I recommend Hal as a lawyer and as a good team mate. He will work with you and make sure you win.
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Posted by Katerina | January 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Forever grateful to Mr. Garfinkel!
My family was in urgent need of a criminal defense lawyer since my younger brother was facing a felony charge for making false statements that threatened the public safety. Mr. Garfinkel was referred by a friend, and hiring him was the best decision my family made. The court process was long and stressful, however Mr. Garfinkel was very friendly, caring, and answered all of our questions. His experience, knowledge, and determination to resolve my brother’s case were beyond impressive. He was able to negotiate with the prosecutors a great deal that reduced the original charge to a petty offense with probation. My brother’s future is bright again and he is able to continue living a normal life. My family will be forever grateful to Mr. Garfinkel!
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Posted by Suhana | November 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service
Attorney Hal is very experienced and knowledgeable . He guided me throughout my case past one year. The case got dismissed and I got successfully my visa stamped at the end. He is accessible all the time and responds to the questions very quickly. I would suggest this attorney to hire for your case.
Posted by LaShonda | November 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Relieved Mother who's Son was found NOT GUILty
My son was arrested back in 2015 and charged with Attempt First Degree Murder. My son promised me he was innocent and I was not going to let him go to the penitentiary without a fight. I was referred to attorney Hal Garfinkel and I was told he is a fighter. We met him at my office on a Sunday and he really listened to us. I will admit, he is not cheap but money was no option. I had to get my baby back home to our family. We had a three day trial at 26 and California and my baby was found NOT GUILTY OF ALL charges. He was facing 21 years in jail and he walked out of that courtroom with us. Hopefully, you will never be in the position we were in but if you are, there is no one you should contact other than attorney Hal Garfinkel. I'm telling you, Mr. Garfinkel was great. He worked on our son's case day and night and you could tell when he went into court he was prepared. Hal, I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for our family, for my son, and for our entire community.
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Posted by Joshua | November 8, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Gifted and Aggressive Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
There are no words to adequately describe what attorney Hal did for me. I’ve been under Federal Investigation by the DEA for 18 months and I couldn’t sleep or eat. I contacted Mr. Garfinkel after speaking with a buddy who told me he does federal work. Needless to say, Hal met with the US Attorney’s office in Chicago last week and not only was I not charged, the entire investigation was closed and I can go on with my life. This guy is the real deal.
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Posted by anonymous | November 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A grateful client who had is freedom restored
I heard about Hal from my sister's boyfriend who had hired him about a year ago for a complicated fraud case. I interviewed several other attorneys before I sat down with Hal and honestly I did not know what to expect. We met at his office in the loop on a Sunday and I gave him all the information about my case. He did not promise me anything other than he would do his best. I was arrested for a bogus fraud case and I really believed I was innocent. Hal spent two hours with me going over the facts of the case. He really listened to what I had to say and I just felt that he was different from the other attorneys I spoke to. In the end, we went to trial and I decided on a bench trial. The case took over a week but ultimately, I was found NOT GUILTY. Hal, there are no words to describe how grateful I am for all that you did for me and my family. You are truly a God's send. Thank you. Listen to me, if you are ever charged with a criminal case, there is only one lawyer you should consider hiring and that is Hal Garfinkel.
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Posted by Steve | November 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Aggressive and Trustworthy Advocate
The Chicago FBI task force showed up at my house with CPD and searched my house and car and found a pound of marijuana and a 9 mm Handgun. I was arrested in state court and charged with Armed Violence and a Class 1 drug offense. A friend suggested I contact attorney Hal Garfinkel. I met Hal at his office with my wife and We instantly felt comfortable and at ease. After a year and a half, we went to trial and I was found not guilty and acquitted of all charges. I am so grateful I trusted my friend and hired Hal Garfinkel. If you are ever in need of a criminal lawyer, trust me and contact Hal Garfinkel,
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Posted by Robin | November 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest and Hardworking Attorney
I hired Hal to represent my son who was charged with a gun charge. Hal promised me he would investigate the charges thoroughly and if possible, file a Motion to Suppress the handgun. Amazingly, Hal was successful and won the motion and the case was dropped. I hope I never need to hire a criminal lawyer in the future but if I do, no doubt I will call Hal again!
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Posted by Josh | September 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Iraqi Veteran Seeks
Great man with a professional demeanor and understanding of the Law. Im an Iraqi Veteran that was accused of a Sex Crime by a fellow student at a top Chicago University 2 years ago. Without knowledge of the Law I believed that I could handle things on my own and let the truth substantiate my version of events. Needless to say I was naive and irresponsible in my actions. After meeting with Mr. Garfinkel, He assured me that he would work hard to bring my case to a close. He was patient and willing to fit me in for a consultation, especially with his condensed schedule. Within a month, Mr. Garfinkel was able to put an end to my open case. Please don't wait to schedule an appointment! I did and It almost cost me everything that I have worked for in my career. Placing my case in Mr. Garfinkel's hands granted me the freedom to finally be able to move on with my life and put this terrible situation behind me.
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Posted by anonymous | August 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Unprecedented Results
My son was charged with felony sex crimes due to computer solicitation of a minor which turned out to be a undercover officer. Mr. Garfinkel was able to negotiate with the prosecutor and obtain TASC probation as well as to reduce his charges so that he doesn't have to register as a sex offender. This is unprecedented results because it allows my son to have a chance at normal life once he's done with his probation and will be able to have his record seal after 5 years.
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Posted by TP | August 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and amazing service.
I found Hal Garfinkel through google search. I called him that night and was able to have a consultation over the phone. He was at a game for his kids and took the time to talk to me. During our meeting in his downtown office weeks before the case, he was very upfront and honest with what I was facing and what he could do. My case involved a multiple car accident and I was charged as the person in fault of the crash. We went to court on 2 separate occasions and I was so nervous of the outcome. He reassured me of what he could do. 2 days ago we had our final court date and my case was completely dismissed and I didn't even have to pay a court fee for a ticket I had. I'm forever grateful because this case could've been a bad outcome financially as well as professionally for me if found guilty. If you need a excellent lawyer, Hall is worth every dime. Hopefully, I will never need him again but I will recommend him to anyone. He pays attention to detail and listens.
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Posted by anonymous | August 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service
Hal is wonderful to work with. He took the time (extra time) to explain all legal jargon, details of my case, as well as my options. Hal was easily reachable and respond promptly to all my questions, concerns, and needs. Not only was he friendly but very experienced and knowledgeable. In the end he did EXTREMELY well by me. He saved me TONS of money, and negotiated the best possible outcome that I could hope for. I would definitely seek his servicies again, but hopefully will not find the need. It was comforting to know I had such quality representation working on behalf.
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Posted by Latonya | August 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent - Supherb legal Skills
My dad has never had in encounter with the law and to say my family and I was devasted is understatement. Hal was an excellent attorney with supherb legal skills. His turn around time was excellent. He worked deligently on my dad's case and it was very much appreciated. He gave us his word and stayed true to everything he promised. If he says he will call you back at a specific time that is exactlly what occurred. I will admit he has a way with words, but that should be expected from any good attoroney. I would definitely recommend him for any crimal case.
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Posted by anonymous | July 24, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
The Best There Is!
Harold has been extremely helpful and caring. He has helped me through my situation, and was able to keep things calm all the way through. He is ultra confident and is an expert within the subject matter. If you are in need of help, seek it from someone who actually cares and is really good at their job. Harold is the ONLY guy out there that you need to go with.
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Posted by anonymous | March 18, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch
Hal is a fantastic lawyer. I researched over 50 lawyers before selecting Hal and he did not disappoint. He is well connected in the Chicago area, asks intelligent questions and achieved the best outcome possible. On top of all that he is responsive and was with me through every step of the process. My case was relatively "minor" in comparison to the other cases Hal was handling, but it was important to me, so it was important to Hal. I can't recommend him enough.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • Law Office of Hal M. Garfinkel
  • 1996 - Present
  • Prosecuting Attorney
  • Cook County State's Attorney's Office
  • 1990 - 1995

Education

  • John Marshall Law School, Chicago
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1989
  • University of Kansas
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1985

Legal Cases

  • People of the State of Illinois vs. Cesar Castrejon
  • Not Guilty

Associations

  • United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
  • Board Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1998 - Present
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Hebrew

Honors and Awards

  • Elite Lawyer
  • Elite Lawyer
  • 2022
  • Elite Lawyer
  • Elite Lawyer
  • 2021
  • Elite Lawyer
  • Elite Lawyer
  • 2020
  • Elite Lawyer
  • Elite Lawyer
  • 2019
  • Founding Member
  • Elite Lawyer
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Harold Garfinkel
  • Avvo Client's Choice Award 2014
  • 2014
View all awards

Publications

View all publications

Attorney endorsements

Received (18)
Given (18)
Endorse Harold
Vincent Anthony Luisi headshot
Vincent Luisi
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
James T. Hyun headshot
James Hyun
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Hal for over 20 years. I had the privelege of working with Hal while we were both young prosecutors. Hal was an exceptional prosecutor with great courtroom skills. As a defense attorney, Hal is fearless, puts his client's rights first. Hal is also a first class individual with high ethics and moral standards. It is privelege to have Hal not only as my colleague but my ever lasting friend."
Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Mr. Garfinkel. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first."
Scott Fredrick Anderson headshot
Scott Anderson
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Ryan Jacob Fishman headshot
Ryan Fishman
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Margaret Mary O'Connell headshot
Margaret O'Connell
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Elizabeth A Edwards headshot
Elizabeth Edwards
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Pat James Crispi headshot
Pat Crispi
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Dana B. Carron headshot
Dana Carron
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Attorney Garfinkel. He has a reputation for being able to obtain unbelievable results even when he has very little positive material to work with."
Jonathan Gerald Anderson headshot
Jonathan Anderson
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Stephen R. Brodsky headshot
Stephen Brodsky
Federal crime Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Yvette Pietruska Fallon headshot
Yvette Fallon
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Douglas Bryan Warlick headshot
Douglas Warlick
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Zisl Taub Edelson headshot
Zisl Edelson
Civil rights Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Co-worker
"Hal Garfinkel is an amazing trial lawyer. He has over 40 jury trials under his belt and commands the courtroom. Hal has in-depth knowledge and understanding of legal issues and constantly keeps up to date with all relevant case law. As a former prosecutor, Hal has first-hand experience with the criminal justice system and he knows how police departments really work. I would highly recommend Hal Garfinkel for all civil rights and criminal defense matters."
Christopher M. Cosley headshot
Christopher Cosley
Criminal defense Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Steven H. Mevorah headshot
Steven Mevorah
Criminal defense Attorney | May 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Salvatore C. Miglore headshot
Salvatore Miglore
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Monica Padmakar Patankar headshot
Monica Patankar
Family
Caitlin Robinett Jachimowicz headshot
Caitlin Jachimowicz
Family
Vincent Anthony Luisi headshot
Vincent Luisi
Criminal defense
Amanda Marhia Oliver headshot
Amanda Oliver
Litigation
Scott Fredrick Anderson headshot
Scott Anderson
Criminal defense
Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick
Family
Matthew Aaron Katz headshot
Matthew Katz
Immigration
Margaret Mary O'Connell headshot
Margaret O'Connell
Criminal defense
Pat James Crispi headshot
Pat Crispi
Personal injury
Stephen R. Brodsky headshot
Stephen Brodsky
Criminal defense
Marshall W. Conick headshot
Marshall Conick
Social Security & Disability
Yvette Pietruska Fallon headshot
Yvette Fallon
Divorce and separation
Scott William Sheen headshot
Scott Sheen
DUI and DWI
Francis J. Discipio headshot
Francis Discipio
Car accident
Christopher M. Cosley headshot
Christopher Cosley
Criminal defense
Zisl Taub Edelson headshot
Zisl Edelson
Civil rights
Steven H. Mevorah headshot
Steven Mevorah
Family
Salvatore C. Miglore headshot
Salvatore Miglore
Criminal defense

Avvo Contributions

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Chicago Criminal defense Lawyer Harold Mark Garfinkel
Harold Mark Garfinkel
Criminal defense Attorney
Chicago, IL
Licensed for 33 years
Free Consultation
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