Jennifer Gerstenzang

Jennifer Gerstenzang

5.0
Rating: 9.6

Licensed for 14 years

Employment and labor Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Employment & Labor

5440 Morehouse Drive Suite 3700, San Diego, CA

About Jennifer

Biography

Practice Areas

1

Practice Area

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 15 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in California for 14 years

State: California

Acquired: 2011

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Zakay Law Group

5440 Morehouse Drive Suite 3700, San Diego, CA, 92121

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Jennifer Gerstenzang's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

47 Client Reviews

5 star (47)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by anonymous | July 10, 2019 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Best in the Business

5 1/2 Stars. Its always a pleasure to engage a professional who delivers excellence. No two cases are alike, but you will find no one better qualified to represent you to achieve the best possible outcome. I engaged Gerstenzang to tie off an unusual case with a long history, and she delivered ...results with Expert understanding of the law Experience, skills and know-how Advisory, insight and guidance of strategies and tradeoffs Confidence in court rules and procedures Professional character and ethical integrity

Posted by Vicki | May 3, 2019 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Legal Coaching is a great solution

When I needed laser focus legal advice Jennifer helped provide the answers through her coaching service. If you are looking to get assistance from a legal professional w/o hiring a full priced attorney I highly recommend this approach. It's a great way to get exactly what you need.

Posted by anonymous | May 2, 2019 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Jennifer Gerstenzang

In 2017 I was fresh out of college and submerged in a new relationship with someone who I thought was right for me. Time would tell that this wasn’t the case; We were detrimental to each other. Both of us had deep routed issues and a reliance on alcohol. In an emotionally abusive and physically drain...ing relationship, I found myself in a dark place. The longer I stayed the worse it got and the more I spiraled. The constant stress, drinking, dissatisfaction, and torment became the norm for me. I thought these were the hardships of a relationship - that it was what everyone experienced. Naive and new to the world of, not only dating, but being openly gay and with someone of the same sex, I quickly lost myself. I let this partner lead the way. That way led me to some legal issues. I ended up in a great deal of trouble and I had to reach out to my parents for guidance. We heard of Jennifer through a family friend. Jennifer not only gave me professional direction through this predicament, but she also gave me amazing personal advice. I’ve viewed Jennifer as more than just a lawyer; She is an individual to look up to. I’ve always seen lawyers as stern workers just trying to get their job done and win a case. Jennifer is unlike most lawyers. She has exceeded my expectations. Not only does she care about winning your case, but she actually cares about your well-being. Jennifer is extremely understanding and truly wants you to live your best life moving forward. She sees both sides of a story and does everything she can to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome. Jennifer spent over an hour with me, not only discussing the legal issues and the actions we must take moving forward, but also discussing the potential personal issues which led me to this place and the life style changes I could choose to make moving forward. Along the way, Jennifer simplified things for me that I didn’t quite understand. She never steered me toward one side or another on how the case may go. She made sure we were aware of ALL the possible outcomes. She made recommendations for therapists/life coaches - both of which I took and had great results. Jennifer herself could be a life coach! She was very good about checking in and staying with us through a long year of seeing where this case would lead. With Jennifer’s recommendations and advice, I took massive action to change the course of my life. I am almost a year sober now, regularly seeing a therapist, in a new and better paying job, and in a healthy new relationship with trust and 100% openness. My lifestyle changes and Jennifer’s help created the BEST possible outcome for me. The case was rejected and I feel incredibly grateful to have had such a great lawyer. I’ve reconnected with my family and I am proud to say I’m in a much better place now. I highly recommend Jennifer to anyone seeking legal advice or guidance. This is especially directed toward young female professionals. Jennifer is someone who can relate to you, care for you, and ultimately help you to get it together and move forward. I don’t believe I would have the same results if we had went with a different lawyer. I have a new life and a second chance due to Jennifer Gerstenzang.

Posted by anonymous | April 30, 2019 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

A beacon of light in the darkness

Being away from home, our daughter lost her way and got into legal trouble after graduating from college. It was a very dark time and we did not know where to turn. On the advice of a friend, we hired Jennifer Gerstenzang. Jennifer led 2 very frightened parents and their daughter down the path to leg...al redemption. Jennifer was always there to listen if we had questions. At times, we forgot she was acting as our counsel, as she always showed great compassion and kindness, two things you don't always see in a lawyer. Jennifer had advised that our daughter seek counseling (which she did) and kept up with her progress as she turned her life around. The charges were dropped and I am proud to say that today our daughter is living a very happy and productive life. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you Jennifer!

Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2019 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

You won't find any better; Best lawyer!

I recently found myself in need of a criminal defense attorney, and didn't know where to start. After searching online I came across a review on Jennifer Gerstenzang. I was struck about her excellent legal abilities and also the comments describing her as a very caring individual. And indeed she is. ... When I first talked to her on the phone I immediately had the feeling to be talking to the right person, right lawyer. She was warm, caring, patient, compassionate and very knowledgeable about my legal situation and immediately reassured me that things were not as bad as my imagination had led me to believe. From the very beginning to the end Jennifer made sure I understood the entire process, best and worst case scenarios, and what my options were. Throughout the entire process, Jennifer followed through with every detail, and kept me to date. I'm so grateful to have met her and for all what she did related to my case. She is amazing and so competent, professional and one of the kindest person I know. She is excellent in court and I highly recommend her.

See All Client Reviews

Jennifer Gerstenzang's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Jennifer
Adam Joseph Hepburn headshot
Adam Hepburn

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is an incredible attorney. I worked with Jennifer years ago and she always stood out as someone with immense passion and dedication to her clients. She is a sharp, knowledgeable, and talented trial attorney. You can absolutely trust that you are in good hands when you hire Ms. Gerstenzang."

Ashley Marie Arcidiacono headshot
Ashley Arcidiacono

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jenny is an outstanding attorney. She genuinely cares for her clients. You see that right away because she is always willing to go the extra mile, without hesitation, to make sure her clients feel comfortable, informed and empowered. Jenny is also professional yet very down to earth, which makes her a pleasure to work with, as well. I endorse Jenny without reservation!"

Charles V. Millioen headshot
Charles Millioen

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer and I worked together and frequently collaborated on cases. She is an amazing advocate for her clients, whether they be charged with a traffic infraction or a serious felony. I hope I get to work together with her again in the future!"

George Stein headshot
George Stein

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is a 2nd generation lawyer who has superb legal skills and gives attention to details like no other. Her presence in the courtroom is amazing and she serves her clients well with her advanced legal skills, coupled with a good bedside manner. I endorse this lawyer!"

Troy Patrick Owens Jr. headshot
Troy Owens

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I had the pleasure of working with Jennifer. I was able to see her determination, passion, and was impressed by the lengths that she is willing to go to advocate for her clients! Those skills, when paired with her knowledge, make her a true force in the legal community!"

David Carl Beyersdorf headshot
David Beyersdorf

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Based on her excellent responses to questions presented here, I endorse Ms. Gerstenzang."

Omar G Nassar headshot
Omar Nassar

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer is a wonderul attorney who will work tirelessly for her clients. She is fully dedicated to her clients' matters, and I endorse her without reservation."

Paul N. Batta headshot
Paul Batta

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I Ms. Gerstenzang is a great attorney who always strives to obtain the best possible outcome for her clients."

Dod Ghassemkhani headshot
Dod Ghassemkhani

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jul 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Joseph Flemming headshot
Michael Flemming

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is an amazing attorney. She deeply cares for her clients and offers premier legal representation. As such, she ALWAYS obtains favorable results. Bottom line, you're in wonderful hands if you retain her services."

Lawrence Eric Taylor headshot
Lawrence Taylor

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is what is known in the profession as a "rising star" -- a gifted attorney who is clearly destined to be a leader in the DUI field. In this sense, it is perhaps a legacy: her father, a former Dean of the 1800-member National College for DUI Defense, is one of the brightest and most respected practitioners in the country. Based upon her professional performance to date, Jennifer is certain to follow in his footsteps. I would recommend this remarkable attorney without reservation."

Aryeh Leichter headshot
Aryeh Leichter

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Helene Cecile Colin headshot
Helene Colin

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer's experience as a former Public Defender serves her well in her criminal defense practice. She is caring and passionate, and has a special interest in representing juveniles. I highly recommend Jennifer."

Larissa Michelle Bodniowycz headshot
Larissa Bodniowycz

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer is the whole package. She's intelligent, compassionate, and a zealous advocate for her clients. Jennifer utilizes her strong understanding of criminal law and the criminal justice system to ensure her client's rights are protected and knows how to explain the law in a way that her clients can understand. I endorse Jennifer."

Wei Fong Jennifer Chou headshot
Wei Chou

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer is knowledgeable and experienced on a wide range of matters in criminal defense. She is an excellent attorney and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone."

Stanley T. Shar headshot
Stanley Shar

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 23

Relationship: Other

"Jenny and I were classmates. She's a great lawyer and an even better person. I endorse this lawyer."

Shannon Englert headshot
Shannon Englert

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang definitely knows criminal defense and criminal law. She has personally guided me on how to handle a criminal defense case, so I saw her knowledge of the law first hand. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking a criminal defense attorney."

William R. Christoph headshot
William Christoph

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Gerstenzang is an excellent attorney who works very hard to achieve the best results for her clients."

Bart Kasperowicz headshot
Bart Kasperowicz

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Gerstenzang is one of a kind. Highly passionate about her clients' cases and deeply devoted to getting great results. I have personally worked with her on past defense cases and have witnessed her exceptionally high level of work-ethic. The results she has produced speak for themselves. I highly recommend her."

David Milton Dastrup headshot
David Dastrup

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer | Mar 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Adam Joseph Hepburn headshot
Adam Hepburn

Criminal defense lawyer

Kimberly Yvette Bennett headshot
Kimberly Bennett

Intellectual property lawyer

Andrew Santos Fleischman headshot
Andrew Fleischman

Criminal defense lawyer

Charles V. Millioen headshot
Charles Millioen

Criminal defense lawyer

Angela Marie Jenkins headshot
Angela Jenkins

Trusts lawyer

Pamela Frances Kleinkauf headshot
Pamela Kleinkauf

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Joshua Daniel Tucker headshot
Joshua Tucker

Family lawyer

Gaurav S Bali headshot
Gaurav Bali

Criminal defense lawyer

Pedro Bernal Bilse headshot
Pedro Bilse

Criminal defense lawyer

Troy Patrick Owens Jr. headshot
Troy Owens

Criminal defense lawyer

Ashley Marie Arcidiacono headshot
Ashley Arcidiacono

Immigration lawyer

Omar G Nassar headshot
Omar Nassar

Real estate lawyer

Michael Joseph Flemming headshot
Michael Flemming

Criminal defense lawyer

Helene Cecile Colin headshot
Helene Colin

Immigration lawyer

Brian Mathew Shields headshot
Brian Shields

Personal injury lawyer

Amberly A Morgan headshot
Amberly Morgan

Insurance lawyer

Grant Wells Hamor headshot
Grant Hamor

Real estate lawyer

Jeffrey Albert Dracup headshot
Jeffrey Dracup

Litigation lawyer

Jessica Bialostozky Grynberg headshot
Jessica Grynberg

Family lawyer

Larissa Michelle Bodniowycz headshot
Larissa Bodniowycz

Trademark infringement lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.6 (Superb)

Honors

2016

Best Lawyers, San Diego Business Journal

2011

Wiley W. Manuel Certificate For Pro Bono Legal Services, Board of Governors of the State Bar of California

Work Experience

2015 - Present

Owner and Lead Attorney, Gerstenzang Law

2011 - 2011

Certified Post-Bar Law Clerk, San Diego County Public Defender

2011 - 2015

Deputy Public Defender, San Diego County Office Of The Public Defender

2010 - 2011

Certified Legal Intern, San Diego County Office Of The Public Defender

Associations

2017 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member of the DUI Committee

2017 - Present

Free to Thrive

Volunteer Attorney for Vacatur Proceedings

2015 - Present

California Defense Bar Association

Member

2015 - Present

Lawyers Club of San Diego

Member

2015 - Present

San Diego Bar Association

Member

2015 - Present

North County Bar Association: Criminal Defense Section

Member

2013 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

NOT GUILTY OF SPEEDING 100 MPH

NOT GUILTY

Not Guilty Verdict speeding 51 mph in 35 mph zone

Not Guilty

Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed

Dismissed

Not Guilty Verdict on Petty Theft Charge

Not Guilty

DUI With An Accident And 1 Prior Reduced To Dry Reckless

Plea Bargain

Felony DUI With Prior Strike Conviction Avoids Prison Sentence

STRIKE STRICKEN, NO PRISON COMMITMENT

Felony Vandalism Reduced to Misdemeanor

FELONY REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Case Dismissed After Motion To Suppress Granted

DISMISSAL

Not Guilty Verdict on Petty Theft Charge And Finding Of Factual Innocence Granted

NOT GUILTY AND FACTUAL FINDING OF INNOCENCE GRANTED

PROBATION VIOLATION DISMISSED

DISMISSED

See More Legal Cases

Education

2011

California Western School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2006

Emory University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2017

Continuing Legal Education at the North County Bar

Practicing Under the Influence: The Problem, Prevention and Treatment

2015

San Dieguito Academy Juniors and Seniors

Real-Life Applications of Your Constitutional Rights

2013

Public Defender Central Misdemeanor Certified Legal Intern Orientation

Misdemeanor Practice

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • 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