Michael Stephen Berg

Michael Stephen Berg

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 43 years

Federal crime Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Federal Crime, Criminal Defense, Juvenile, White Collar Crime

402 West Broadway, Suite 1300, San Diego, CA

About Michael

Biography

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Federal Crime 75%

Michael S. Berg handles a wide variety of criminal cases in state, federal, and juvenile courts. Michael is a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Criminal Law. His extensive experience over 26 years includes white collar crimes, drug crimes, money laundering and computer crimes, as well as over 37 homicide cases to date.

44 years

75%
Criminal Defense 15%

Michael S. Berg handles a wide variety of criminal cases in state, federal, and juvenile courts. Michael is a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Criminal Law. His extensive experience over 26 years includes white collar crimes, drug crimes, money laundering and computer crimes, as well as over 37 homicide cases to date.

44 years

15%
Juvenile Law 5%

Michael S. Berg handles a wide variety of criminal cases in state, federal, and juvenile courts. Michael is a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Criminal Law. His extensive experience over 26 years includes white collar crimes, drug crimes, money laundering and computer crimes, as well as over 37 homicide cases to date.

44 years

5%
White Collar Crime 5%

Michael S. Berg handles a wide variety of criminal cases in state, federal, and juvenile courts. Michael is a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Criminal Law. His extensive experience over 26 years includes white collar crimes, drug crimes, money laundering and computer crimes, as well as over 37 homicide cases to date.

44 years

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in California for 43 years

State: California

Acquired: 1982

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Michael S. Berg

402 West Broadway, Suite 1300, San Diego, CA, 92101

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Michael Stephen Berg's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

19 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (19) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 11 - 15 of 19 reviews

Posted by Rhonda | March 30, 2016 | Criminal Defense

Talks the talk but doesn't walk the walk!

I hired Michael Berg to defend me in a criminal case approximately 3 years ago. My case finally ended today so I feel comfortable in writing this review now. When I first contacted Michael he was very responsive and called me back immediately. He set an appointment for me right away and without re...viewing anything assured me that my case would be easy for him to get dismissed or at least reduced to a minimal charge. As soon as I gave him my $5,000.00 retainer I quit hearing from him. I called numerous times with no return calls, and finally had to call the main receptionist at the building where he rents office space, to have him call me back. I did get a return call that day, but it was from an assistant who obviously knew nothing about my case as she stated that I was charged with something that wasn't even part of my case! When I explained to her that I wanted to hear back from Michael it was another week before he called it was the day before I was due in court, and at that time he was very rude and condescending toward me, again though, he assured me that my case was going to be easy and not to worry. When I arrived the following day for court I waited 1/2 hour for Michael to show up. He went in and talked with the judge and DA and came back to me with the most ridiculous "deal" possible. It was the opposite of what he had promised me and not a deal that anyone would have taken. When I reminded him of his promise to me he stated that this was the best he could do. I had to lose all of the money I had given to Michael and hire a new attorney. I did, and within a few months had my case settled and with a much better resolve than Michael tried to get me to settle on. When I contacted Michael and asked for my retainer back as he didn't do anything on my case he presented with a ridiculous statement of charges and tried to make me feel like I had gotten a deal for the $5,000.00 I had paid him, and denied me any refund although he did absolutely nothing to work on my case. I would not recommend Michael to anyone, not even my worst enemies!

Posted by Abby | January 27, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

No regrets ever!

Michael is seriously the best lawyer ever! He's honestly one of the most humblest men I have ever met. Not only is he fantastic at what he does, his energy and smile is extremely contagious. I don't know what I would have done if I didn't find him. He saved my life. I had a serious felony case facing... 25 years to life and he helped me in getting my case dismissed. If you're looking for a criminal defense attorney, I'm telling you he's the one. He's a miracle worker!

Posted by brandon | March 11, 2015 | Criminal Defense

The Best of the Best! Period.

Can't say enough good about this man. Thank you for your help in my case. you rock and I will always use you as a reference for any legal matter from here on out. Absolutely the Best, no doubt about it. He guided me through a potential felony case with complete ease and frankly relieved all stres...s that i had . Its been an extreme pleasure working with you and thanks for everything you have done for me and my loved ones. If you are looking for the most Professional, hard working, stress free attorney for your criminal defense. I highly recommend you call this man. It would be a shame if you didnt. Again, cant say enough about how this man helped turn my year around. Thanks Michael, you are the best.

Posted by Sarah | November 09, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Massive amounts of gratitude to Michael Berg

I have never needed a lawyer in my life. In 2012, my boyfriend needed one. I came across Michael Berg. This man is an intellectual shark; he is renowned in San Diego for his experience and his talent. He handled my boyfriends case for 2 years. The outcome was astoundingly positive, seeing as how my... boyfriend was originally facing upwards of 22 years in federal prison. On Monday Nobember 3, 2014, he was sentenced to only 110 months. I know in my gut that if Michael Berg hadn't been our defense attorney, the end result would not even be close to what we received. I am still astonished. Mr. Berg knows what he's doing. Eternally grateful doesn't even begin to describe how we feel towards him. I really have no other words to describe my experience with Michael Berg other than 110% satisfied, amazed, and happy. I was kept in the loop, I was never rushed, I was never left waiting for an answer from him. I hope I never need another defense attorney in my life, but if YOU do, I highly recommend Michael Berg.

Posted by Don V. | November 05, 2014 | Criminal Defense

The Ultimate Professional "Mr. Berg"

Our daughter was arrested, put in jail, and charged with felony domestic violence against her boyfriend. Obviously, my wife and I were extremely stressed as we saw her life's goals slip away before our very eyes. We searched for an attorney online and were disappointed that there were so many out the...re that basically claimed to be the best deal out there. We were lucky, as Mr. Berg was recommended to us by a family friend. I accompanied my daughter to court and we didn't even have to venture into the courtroom. Mr. Berg handled the case smoothly and efficiently - so much so - that the case was dismissed. Thank you Mr. Berg for putting our family at ease with you extensive experience, knowledge of the court system, and ability to set your clients at ease. I would highly recommend Mr. Berg to anyone requiring piece of mind!

See All Client Reviews

Michael Stephen Berg's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
David Lawrence Baker headshot
David Baker

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Areeg Akel headshot
Areeg Akel

Federal crime lawyer | Apr 23

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I highly endorse this lawyer. Attorney Michael Berg is above and beyond an experienced attorney. He is honest, aggressive, and accomplishes the maximum best results a client can ever wish for. It's always a pleasure to work with Michael on legal matters."

Nadia Galash headshot
Nadia Galash

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | May 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Michael. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

James Nelson Dicks headshot
James Dicks

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"This attorney works very hard for the client and keeps up with the law by attending legal seminars to assist them in this regard. I endorse this attorney."

Edward L. Fiandach headshot
Edward Fiandach

Unknown lawyer | Nov 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Peter Charles Blair headshot
Peter Blair

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Berg is known to be one of the finest criminal defense attorneys in San Diego. He has earned a tremendous amount of respect in both state and federal courts throughout Southern California. I have personally referred clients to Mr. Berg when a potential for a conflict presents itself in my own cases, fully confident that the client will receive the finest representation possible. I highly endorse Mr. Berg, and wish nothing but continued success for him and his practice."

Michael Shemtoub headshot
Michael Shemtoub

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Your resume speaks for itself and I consider you a valuable member of the attorney community. I would recommend you to anyone and everyone who needs your services. I whole heartedly endorse this lawyer!"

David Philip Shapiro headshot
David Shapiro

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"It is with great pleasure I endorse my colleague and friend, Michael Berg, in the field of both state and federal criminal defense. Michael is one of the most well respected attorneys I have ever had the privilege of knowing. He knows everyone who is anyone in the San Diego criminal defense community. He is a valuable resource to all criminal defense attorneys in the community, but is most valuable to his clients who he obtains spectacular results for day in and day out."

Jonathan Burton Blecher headshot
Jonathan Blecher

Criminal defense lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael Berg is the go-to-guy for criminal defense in the San Diego area."

William Mathew Concidine headshot
William Concidine

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Berg for several years and would recommend him to potential clients. He is always very professional and always tries to obtain the best possible results for his clients."

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

Unknown lawyer | Apr 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the opportunity to be able to see Mr. Berg work in courts for years now. He is a talented advocate for his clients and is well respected in the comunity. I endorse this lawyer."

Daniel Martin Smith headshot
Daniel Smith

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is so highly regarded, that he simply doesn't need another endorsement, but I feel compelled to write one. Mike is always a pleasure to work with because he is so knowledgable and willing to offer ideas and advice on your own cases. I highly recomend Michael and I only hope to acheive his level of competence in our tough field of crimnal law."

Kerry Lee Armstrong headshot
Kerry Armstrong

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Michael as a criminal defense attorney. He has been practicing law for many years in both federal and state court, and I know that he zealously defends all of his clients. He is an asset to the community."

Paul Douglas Turner headshot
Paul Turner

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael Berg has been practicing criminal defense for nearly 30 years. I have known Mr. Berg since he first became a lawyer, and have seen him develop into one of the best criminal lawyers in the State. He is very knowledgeable, and seems to know everyone in his field. This has made him a very effective advocate. I would recommend him without hesitation."

Scott Adam Pactor headshot
Scott Pactor

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Mike from his excellent work in state and federal court. He gives clients sound advice and has the highest ethical standards. He is a great choice for anyone seeking a criminal defense lawyer in the greater San Diego area."

Sandra Mary Wagner headshot
Sandra Wagner

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an zealous advocate. I do not hesitate to refer individuals to him for criminal defense services. Those individuals I have referred to Michael have been very satisfied with his services."

Anna Reese Yum headshot
Anna Yum

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the honor to work with Mr. Berg on a complex wire fraud case in federal court. He has an exceptional reputation and he is held in high regard by the bench, defense attorneys, and prosecutors. He is known to consistently deliver outstanding results for his clients ranging from high-profile trials to negotiated plea bargains. Mr. Berg is extremely knowledgeable of the law and his overall practice of law is truly impressive. I would recommend Mr. Berg to anyone who is facing criminal prosecution."

David Michael Boertje headshot
David Boertje

Criminal defense lawyer | May 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Michael Berg has a very good reputation in the criminal community and has a wealth of experience in the criminal field. He is an excellent criminal defense attorney!"

Jerrold Bodow headshot
Jerrold Bodow

Criminal defense lawyer | May 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have had the privilege to know and observe Mr. Berg in court for at least twenty years. He is a great defense attorney who has repeatedly demonstrated time and time again his command of tactics and strategy to bring great results for his clients."

View All Endorsements
Charles V. Millioen headshot
Charles Millioen

Criminal defense lawyer

Lupe C Rodriguez Jr headshot
Lupe Rodriguez

Criminal defense lawyer

Areeg Akel headshot
Areeg Akel

Criminal defense lawyer

James Nelson Dicks headshot
James Dicks

Criminal defense lawyer

Patrick Gaherity Shea headshot
Patrick Shea

Personal injury lawyer

Peter Charles Blair headshot
Peter Blair

Criminal defense lawyer

Vikas Bajaj headshot
Vikas Bajaj

Criminal defense lawyer

Orly Ahrony headshot
Orly Ahrony

Criminal defense lawyer

Lindsey Bronwyn Mercer headshot
Lindsey Mercer

Criminal defense lawyer

David Philip Shapiro headshot
David Shapiro

Criminal defense lawyer

Gerissa S. Conforti headshot
Gerissa Conforti

Criminal defense lawyer

Jonathan Burton Blecher headshot
Jonathan Blecher

Criminal defense lawyer

Karren Melinda Kenney headshot
Karren Kenney

Criminal defense lawyer

William Mathew Concidine headshot
William Concidine

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

DUI and DWI lawyer

Mary Frances Prevost headshot
Mary Prevost

DUI and DWI lawyer

Daniel Martin Smith headshot
Daniel Smith

Criminal defense lawyer

Kerry Lee Armstrong headshot
Kerry Armstrong

Criminal defense lawyer

Paul Douglas Turner headshot
Paul Turner

Criminal defense lawyer

Scott Adam Pactor headshot
Scott Pactor

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2016

San Diego Super Lawyer, San Diego Super Lawyers Magazine

2016

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2015

San Diego Super Lawyer, San Diego Super Lawyers Magazine

2015

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2014

San Diego Super Lawyer, San Diego Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

San Diego Super Lawyer, San Diego Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2012

San Diego Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2011

San Diego Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2010

Certified Specialist in Criminal Law, State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization

2010

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

San Diego Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2009

San DIego Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2008

San Diego Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

Work Experience

1982 - Present

Owner, Law Offices of Michael S. Berg

Associations

2004 - Present

Rancho Coastal Humane Society

President, Board of DIrectors

2000 - Present

Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Club

President

2000 - Present

Pro Kids Junior Golf Association

Associate Board of Directors

1985 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

1985 - Present

San Diego Criminal Bar Association

Member

1985 - Present

California Public Defenders Association

Member

1982 - Present

San Diego County Bar Association

Member

Education

1981

University of San Diego School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1978

University of South Dakota

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2013

San Diego ESI

Electronic Discovery in Federal Court

2010

Federal Court Open Doors Program

Federal Court System

1993

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

Professional Ethics

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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