Harold Mark Garfinkel

Harold Mark Garfinkel

also known as Hal Mark Garfinkel

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 36 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Chicago, IL
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Federal Crime

134 N LaSalle St, Suite 860, Chicago, IL

About Harold

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

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.

37 years

60%
Federal Crime 40%

37 years

40%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 36 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 1989

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Licensed in Indiana for 16 years

State: Indiana

Acquired: 2009

Temporary Admission Excluded

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney

134 N LaSalle St, Suite 860, Chicago, IL, 60602

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Harold Mark Garfinkel's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

99 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 28 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by A.S | September 10, 2024 | Hired Attorney

He Promise only that he can Deliver

I'm deeply grateful for Attorney Hal Garfinkel's unwavering dedication and 35+ years of expertise. His confidence and strategic approach, which he calls his 'Algorithm,' combined with his deep understanding of the legal system has left no stone unturned to meticulous examination of my case. From the... beginning, Hal was confident about my case winning outcome. He promised only what he could deliver, Which aligns with the saying 'Trust your lawyer when you're confident about your truth.' This experience so far has reinforced my faith in the legal system. Throughout the process, Hal was more than just an attorney; he was a fierce advocate who consistently went the extra mile for justice. He is highly respected amongst his peers. It's worth noting that Hal is in high demand for a reason, but his approach requires patience. His actions often speak louder than words, and he may surprise you with his commitment to your case when you need it most. He shows up when required.I am optimistic about working with him in future. Thanks to Hal's efforts, If you're seeking a champion for your case, Hal Garfinkel is an attorney worth considering.

Posted by Suhana | November 27, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

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 anonymous | October 30, 2017 | Hired Attorney

Should be disbarred

Hal Garfinkel is only concerned with 2 things- himself, and your money. I hired him a year ago for my case and fired him within a few weeks. He is leasing office space in a beautiful building, but has a small windowless office the size of a closet. He does not know the law and these reviews are al...l staged. Do not waste your time with this guy as you will be very disappointed in all aspects- his appearance, attitude, knowledge and ethics.

Harold Garfinkel

Replied last October 24, 2017

Dear Mr. K: From the moment I was hired as your criminal defense counsel, the two things I was most concerned with was your pending criminal case and your serious mental health issue as evidenced by your unstable and chaotic behavior which I witnessed on several occassions in the Will County courthouse and at my office during our client meetings. Your inability to control your rage and anger undoubtedly contributed to your legal problems and I sincerely hope that you seek the mental health treatment you so badly need. It is true that I lease a windowless office in a beautiful downtown office building and to be sure, I intentionally chose this space because I did not want to overcharge my clients to cover the excessive costs associated with an unduly large and glamorous office. To my past, present, and future clients, please rest assured that the client reviews posted below are authentic, accurate, and trustworthy as Avvo's prime service to the public is to verify that a client review is real and not phony or spam. Moreover, to anyone taking the time to read this response, I am devoted to the civil rights of my clients and I will do everything within my power to defend and protect your freedom and constitutional rights. Respectfully submitted, Hal M. Garfinkel, Esq.

Posted by Josh | September 15, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Sex Crime

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.

Posted by anonymous | August 04, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

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 d...id 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.

See All Client Reviews

Harold Mark Garfinkel's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Harold
Vincent Anthony Luisi headshot
Vincent Luisi

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

James T. Hyun headshot
James Hyun

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 lawyer | 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 lawyer | Aug 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ryan Jacob Fishman headshot
Ryan Fishman

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Margaret Mary O'Connell headshot
Margaret O'Connell

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Elizabeth A Edwards headshot
Elizabeth Edwards

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Pat James Crispi headshot
Pat Crispi

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Dana B. Carron headshot
Dana Carron

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 lawyer | Nov 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stephen R. Brodsky headshot
Stephen Brodsky

Federal crime lawyer | Oct 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Yvette Pietruska Fallon headshot
Yvette Fallon

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Douglas Bryan Warlick headshot
Douglas Warlick

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Zisl Taub Edelson headshot
Zisl Edelson

Civil rights lawyer | 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 lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Steven H. Mevorah headshot
Steven Mevorah

Criminal defense lawyer | May 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Salvatore C. Miglore headshot
Salvatore Miglore

Criminal defense lawyer | May 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Monica Padmakar Patankar headshot
Monica Patankar

Family lawyer

Vincent Anthony Luisi headshot
Vincent Luisi

Criminal defense lawyer

Amanda Marhia Oliver headshot
Amanda Oliver

Litigation lawyer

Scott Fredrick Anderson headshot
Scott Anderson

Criminal defense lawyer

Matthew Aaron Katz headshot
Matthew Katz

Immigration lawyer

Margaret Mary O'Connell headshot
Margaret O'Connell

Criminal defense lawyer

Pat James Crispi headshot
Pat Crispi

Personal injury lawyer

Stephen R. Brodsky headshot
Stephen Brodsky

Criminal defense lawyer

Marshall W. Conick headshot
Marshall Conick

Social Security & Disability lawyer

Yvette Pietruska Fallon headshot
Yvette Fallon

Divorce and separation lawyer

Scott William Sheen headshot
Scott Sheen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Francis J. Discipio headshot
Francis Discipio

Car accident lawyer

Christopher M. Cosley headshot
Christopher Cosley

Criminal defense lawyer

Zisl Taub Edelson headshot
Zisl Edelson

Civil rights lawyer

Steven H. Mevorah headshot
Steven Mevorah

Family lawyer

Salvatore C. Miglore headshot
Salvatore Miglore

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2022

Elite Lawyer, Elite Lawyer

2021

Elite Lawyer, Elite Lawyer

2020

Elite Lawyer, Elite Lawyer

2019

Elite Lawyer, Elite Lawyer

2018

Founding Member, Elite Lawyer

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Harold Garfinkel, Avvo Client's Choice Award 2014

Work Experience

1996 - Present

Managing Partner, Law Office of Hal M. Garfinkel

1990 - 1995

Prosecuting Attorney, Cook County State's Attorney's Office

Associations

2001 - Present

United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Board Member

1998 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

1997 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

People of the State of Illinois vs. Cesar Castrejon

Not Guilty

See More Legal Cases

Education

1989

John Marshall Law School, Chicago

JD - Juris Doctor

1985

University of Kansas

BS - Bachelor of Science

Publications

Languages

English

Hebrew

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
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  • Discipline 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