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Michael Ivan Gowdey

Criminal defense Attorney at Las Vegas, NV

4.9   47 reviews
  • Licensed for 23 years
    State NV
    Acquired 2000
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 30 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1992
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    35%
    I have practiced criminal defense for 18 years, and have represented more than 1500 clients in cases ranging from permeditated murder to petty theft. I am well respected and charge reasonable rates for my prepresentation.

    32 years, 1,500 cases

  2. Divorce and separation
    25%

    32 years, 400 cases

  3. Car accident
    20%

    32 years, 500 cases

  4. DUI and DWI
    20%

    32 years, 800 cases

I have been practicing law for 26 years, and the last 18 of those years have been centered in Las Vegas. I love my career because I love to fight for my clients. Basically, I love to win cases. My firm handles criminal, personal injury and family law matters, and I am in court constantly. I am AV rated (the highest rating an attorney can have) with Martindale Hubble, and have been named one of the "Best Lawyers in Las Vegas" in numerous publications. I was recently named one of the "10 Best Lawyers in the State of Nevada" and one of the "Top 100 Lawyers in America" by the American Trial Lawyers Association. I was born and raised in Southern California, and still do a lot of work in California. My goal as an attorney is provide my clients with the very best legal representation, and to build lifelong relationships with my clients.  No feeling is better to me thanwhen  clients refer their friends and family to me, confident that I will provide the same excellent representation to the referral that I provide for them. I encourage my client to call me with all their legal issues. If I don't handle the matter myself, I promise to find them a reputable attorney they can trust to handle the matter. My goal with all clients is to have a lifelong relationshp, and for the client to feel comfortable knowing that his or her attorney will always be available to give first rate representation or legal advice.  Whether you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you were injured in an accident, or you have a divorce or custody matter that you absoultely need to win, know that when you call my office, you are in good hands, and your problem becomes my problem.

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Contact Michael

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Law Offices of Michael I. Gowdey, Ltd.
815 S. Casino Center Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV, 89101

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  47 customer reviews
Posted by Pamela | June 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
Michael Gowdey has been my lawyer for quite some time now and in several different areas of law. He has not only been a good lawyer, but I would consider him a friend. No doubt, 5-star service.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Posted by Blake | November 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divroce Attorney
Mr. Gowdey is an amazing attorney who prioritizes what matters. Throughout my divorce case, Mr. Gowdey ensured my child was the focus of the hearings and did not allow the extra noise being thrown in to interfere with the facts of the case. He listens to his clients and ensures their voice is heard in the courtroom. There truly is no one else I would have rather had represent me, and I would recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
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Posted by Alec | October 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael gave me a second chance at life
Working with Michael Gowdey was the best decision I’ve made in my life. He changed my life forever. What started as an overwhelming circumstance that made me feel like I would lose everything… turned into the greatest opportunity for growth in every area of my life. Because of his hard work for 3 years with me as his client… my family, personal, & professional life all changed to become the best it had ever been even throughout the biggest challenges in my life. Thank you for always under promising, over delivering, & ultimately giving me a second chance at life.
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Posted by Michael | September 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer that cares and will fight for you!
DV case dismissed and made sure time over head didn’t come to fruition for DA
Posted by Mary | September 10, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent attorny
Mr. Gowdy helped my son tremendously to resolve his accident charges. My son has difficulty communicating but Mr. Gowdy was able to explain the process easily, stood up in my sons behalf and got a possible felony charge brought down to the equivalent of a parking ticket. What a relief. He is an excellent attorney and we recommend him highly.
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Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and knows what will happen
Mr. Gowdey was excellent. Always communicates well. He helped my son out majorly. At the beginning of the ordeal, he laid out what would happen and what to expect, and it came to pass what happened. He got my son off probation earlier than expected and dropped/lessen the charges. He is excellent and recommended. He knows his stuff.
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Posted by Jesse | August 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THANK YOU MR. MICHAEL GOWDEY
I just want to take the moment to "Thank Mr. Michael Gowdey"... I can't thank him enough for all that he has done for me. I'm kinda lost for words a little bit quite frankly. But I do know there was a heavy dark cloud looming over me and if it wasn't for Mr. Michael Gowdey I know it would of kept raining on me. I can go on all day about this actually but I'm going to try and just keep it professional. Thank you Mr. Michael, the Sun is finally looking brighter again. Thank you ever so much kind sir. I don't know what I would of done with out you. I'm not a bad guy and did not deserved waking up in jail. Not cool! And thanks to Mr. Michael he proves I'm not a bad guy. Thank you sir. And thank you to your Honor. My prayers and Blessings goes out to you and your family and loved ones. My the Heavens Almighty always Bless, Guide and Protect you all always. May "N0" Sickness, illness, Diseases, Viruses, Plagues, Pestilence, and/or any Heathens come No where near you guys or your dwelling, in the Heavens Almighty name...Amen... 1LOVE... Peace Love and Prosperity. Thank you again Mr. MICHAEL GOWDEY. STAY BLESSED SIR.
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Posted by Eunice | April 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best lawyer to represent my case
I’m Extremely grateful to have Mr. Michael Gowdey represent me. He went above and beyond as a lawyer to defend me with his exquisite knowledge and skills. We finally got a settlement and I can finally move on with my life from that traumatic experience that happened to me back in 2020. Thank u so much for everything that u do for me and I’m very happy that he got recommended to me from a friend because the first lawyer I hired didn’t know what he was doing at all. If I could give Michael more than 5 stars I would. He’s hands down the best and only lawyer I will be working with from now on. Thank u so so much!
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Posted by Dennis | October 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Worth every penny!
Like the title states, Mr. Gowdey is worth every penny. I hired Michael in June for a pending federal criminal case against the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. Within minutes of a calling his office I knew he was the lawyer I wanted representing me. He has 30+ years experience, extremely confident is his abilities, and is well respected at the state and federal level. The morning of my court hearing I arrived to find Mr. Gowdey already at the tail end of a deal with the Federal Prosecutor. What could have been a substantial fine coupled with jail time, turned out to be less than $200 restitution and 30 day Deferred Entry of Judgement. Fast forward 27 days later and I was already in possession of a letter from the US Attorney’s Office that all charges had been dropped. I read a poor review around the time I hired Michael. He may not be for everyone. If you are worried about cost, maybe go with a public defender or someone of way lesser caliber. Mr. Gowdey brings 30+ years of experience to the table. You are not paying for his time, you’re paying for his experience. And to say that Michael doesn’t care about people or you feel bad for people that hire him, this is a gross misrepresentation. While sitting in the courtroom we had at least a 30 minute conversation that had nothing to do with my case. We talked about work, family life, etc. If I ever find myself in a situation that requires Mr. Gowdey’s skill-set and expertise, I promise you he will be the first person I call. I highly, highly recommend!!
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Posted by John | October 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value
Thank you for your expeditious and professional handling of my request. I have the utmost respect for you and the work you have done for me. All the best,
Posted by Cliff | October 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
God's Work!!
Mr. Gowdey went above and beyond in my criminal defense case. From the moment I first sat in his office, he was 100% transparent with me and laid out the entire legal process of my case. I feel honored having him represent me in my legal proceedings. In the end, Mr. Michael I. Gowdey got me the benefit of the bargain, and pretty much saved my life!! I could not have asked for anyone better to represent me. Thank you so much for all that you have done, and continue to do for others in dire times. Today, I am a free man because of you. I can move on with my life because of you. I have a SECOND CHANCE. For anyone looking for legal representation, choose Michael I. Gowdey!!
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Posted by Corwyn | October 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely great
Micheal helped out me and my wife with our case it was our first time being introuble with the law ither than minor traffic infractions. Mike yook the time to explain the process and answered our questions in a timley manner definitely a true professional. Resulting in a total dismissal of our case. I recommend him to anybody whos in need of help in the legal feilds that he provides for.
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Posted by Christa | October 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Abuse case
Michael is a wonderful Lawyer. He handled my case with ease and reassured all the way through. Thanks.
Posted by Ally | August 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
*Willingness to Listen*
I hope I never need his services again, but I will gladly hire Mr. Gowdey if the need does arise. In the meantime, I will not hesitate to refer him to everyone I meet! He showed a genuine interest in my case and was extremely thorough. He also listened to me and my concerns, making me feel very comfortable. Thank you for making this tough time a little easier to get through. I have hired many attorneys in my lifetime, this one deserves 5 Stars!
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Posted by anonymous | August 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I’m thankful to have Michael Gowdey as my Lawyer
I highly recommend Michael Gowdey to anyone needing a straight up great lawyer that genuinely respects his client. In the need of help, he is a excellent lawyer and the best at getting the work done promptly. He is very knowledgeable, professional, intelligent, and responsive. He’s very direct and straight forward. I appreciate all the work he has done and made sure I got through my case with satisfaction. I got myself in a bad situation where It looked like my ex-boyfriend was going to be awarded 100% physical custody of my infant baby. I hired a lawyer, but because I was traumatized and barely able to speak about the case, that relationship did not work out well. Someone recommended Mr. Gowdey. He quickly grasped the situation and in a short time he negotiated a very fair settlement. We didn’t even have to go in front of a judge. I couldn’t believe how quickly things turned around. I was very relieved and grateful. I hope Michael will still work with me in the future if I have more issuesy with the ex. I’m grateful for having him as my lawyer. You will not go wrong working with him!
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Posted by anonymous | August 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Straight Up and Effective Council
We hired Michael Gowdey to seal the conviction records of my nephew. He explained the process to us, plainly and clearly and he got right to work on it. He was successful and now our family member can get back on track with his life. We wish we had hired Mr. Gowdey as the case was being prosecuted. Highly recommended.
Posted by Miki | July 1, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Gratitude
Michael Gowdey is a great attorney. He paid attention to all my needs during a time of great distress for me. I felt safe having him by my side, fighting for me and my rights. His knowledge and actions were prompt and on point. I would always reach back out to him in the future if needed, recommend his help to family or friends.
Posted by Sheyland | June 23, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He saved my life .
If he didn’t take me case for thousands less then what 5 other lawyers quoted me . I’d be doing life in prison for murder. Once he found the details of my case . He was in the jail to see me . The confidence he displayed about everything gave me hope that I would see freedom again. Witch was hard to believe with my face all over the news and being labeled as a cold blooded killer . I’m able to write this review today from the hard work of Mr Gowdey . Who went back to the crime scene went threw emails . He had me cleared of open murder before my 2nd court date and home in time to spend Christmas with my family .
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Posted by anonymous | March 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Man of his word
Michael is by far the best attorney for the job. If I could, would of given him more than just five stars. His attention to detail and knowledge of the laws are unsurpassed. I got charged with domestic violence. From the start he understood my frustrations and concerns. My case would have destroyed everything I worked for, My immigration status, and my carrier but it got dismissed. I am for ever grateful for his services. He saved my LIFE. I highly recommend his services, ever penny is worth it. Just follow his advice and instruction if you want to win.
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Posted by Ahmad alnajjar | March 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer ever
I recommend Mr Michael Gowdey , he's a very professional lawyer, he was absolutely amazing , I highly recommend him , thank you Mr gowdey you r the best
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Law Offices of Michael I Gowdey, Ltd.
  • 1993 - Present
  • Chief trial Attorney
  • Law Offices of Michael I. Gowdey, Ltd.
  • 1992 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Federal Public Defender- San Diego California
  • 1992 - 1993

Education

  • California Western School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1992
  • San Diego State University
  • Undergraduate
  • 1989

Legal Cases

  • State of Nevada v. Sheyland Barnett
  • All charges dismissed
  • City of Las Vegas v. Lawrence Bayers
  • Not guilty
  • City of Las Vegas v. Thomas Forrest
  • Not guilty of Domestic Violence
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • National Association of Trial Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2007 - Present
  • American Trial Lawyers Association
  • 1999 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • 1992 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Thai

Honors and Awards

  • Top 20 DUI Attorneys in Nevada
  • National Association of DUI Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyers in Las Vegas
  • MYVEGAS Magazine
  • 2015
  • Top 25 DUI Lawyers in Nevada
  • National Association of DUI Defenders
  • 2014
  • Top 25 Criminal Layers in Las Vegas
  • Las Vegas Top 25.com
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Men of Success
  • MYVEGAS Magazine
  • 2014
  • Best Lawyers in Las Vegas
  • MYVEGAS Magazine
  • 2014
  • 100 Most Influential People in Las Vegas
  • MYVEGAS Magazine
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyers in Las Vegas
  • MyVegas Magazine
  • 2013
  • Southern Nevada Justice Association
  • Trial Lawyer of the Year
  • 2011
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Nevada Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • Voir Dire in Criminal Trials-Picking the Right Jury
  • 2007
  • Nevada Criminal Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • The Criminal Trial From Start to Finish in Nevada- The Defense
  • 2005

Attorney endorsements

Received (3)
Given (2)
Endorse Michael
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Gowdey is a fierce litigator who advocates for his clients. I have observed Mr. Gowdey in court and would recommend his services."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Michael for over ten years. Over that time frame, as I have seen him defend his clients in court, I have been consistently impressed with his strong commitment to the well-being of his clients. Michael is a powerful courtroom advocate who is always prepared and ready to take on the prosecution. I wholeheartedly endorse Michael and recommend him to anyone to looking for top-flight representation in Las Vegas."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael Gowdey is one of the best criminal defense attorneys in Las Vegas. His style is aggressive and effective, and I've been impressed by his performance in court on several occasions over the years."
Criminal defense
Criminal defense