Free Consultation
$0 first 90 minutes
Michael James Kennedy
About Michael
Biography
I am second to none in a combination of scholarship, effective aggressiveness for my clients, and insights into the system and what it does and should be doing. You could do no better than have me on your side in a fight against the system; you could, however, do much, much worse.
It is imporant to understand that I handle cases in all of Riverside and San Bernardino and Imperial counties, and I will take cases in Orange, San Diego, and Los Angeles Counties if the issues are interesting enough or if the client is facing certain hardships or criminal sanctions that I suspect would not be properly handled by attorneys in those areas. Unfortunately, AVVO's system does not allow a person to reflect that he handles anywhere that he does not have a physical office, thereby depriving those seeking help the full range of possibilities for the help they seek. I am availble in most places where the Constitution is in peril; feel free to contact me wherever your problems might be occurring. No matter where they are, you could do no better than having me help, and you always could do much, much worse.
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
55%
44 years | 2,500 cases
DUI and DWI
40%
39 years | 750 cases
Juvenile Law
5%
29 years | 300 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.
Search our directory
Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.
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 withLicenses
Licensed in California for 44 years
State: California
Acquired: 1981
Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 1994
Location
Law Office of Michael J. Kennedy, PC
56244 Papago Trail, Suite 7, Yucca Valley, CA, 92284
Law Office of Michael J. Kennedy, PC
56244 Papago Trail, Suite 7, Yucca Valley, CA, 92284
Ad
Transform legal challenges into solutions.
Connect now to review your situation.
Michael James Kennedy's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
17 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (17)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
Showing 11 - 15 of 17 reviews
Posted by Kevin | May 13, 2015 | Criminal Defense
Rude, judgmental, insulting and expensive
I tried to contact mr.kennedy for representation and from the first phone call he was rude and insulting an combative, like he was mad at me? His fees were 4 times(not even my real issue but worth mentioning) what anyone elses were and his attitude is horrible. Made me feel like I was being judged...
Michael Kennedy
Replied last May 13, 2015The attorney-client relationship requires confidentiality, which I will protect at all costs, more so than many attorneys who will tell the court certain things to make themselves look good to the oppressors. But the one area which allows breaching that inviolable relationship of silence is when the client attacks the attorney in public, utters a libel against the attorney and the practice of law, as occurred here. Then the attorney can divulge the context to defend himself. At least this attack, unlike the others on this page, is from a true client [although he had not yet hired me, but this is not from an envious competitor, unlike the others]. Of course, it is foolish to attack me, when I can protect myself, because judges and DAs who respect me [and most grudgingly do because of the quality of my work and my grit] read my postings, and pages about me, like this one. Judgmental? Yep. This Kevin Steele was sent to me by one of the preeminent DUI specialists because he knew that I was one of the few who could back the court and DA down in Victorville on drunk driving matters, where I have had many noted successes, felony and misdemeanor. I started looking into the matter before being retained so I would know the lay of the land and could decide if I wanted to take the case and what was involved. It turns out that Kevin has two drunk driving cases, 4 years old, one committed while Steele was pending appearance on the other, and both now have literally years of failures to appear. I asked Kevin what on earth was going on with two drunk driving cases and persistent non-appearances, and his answer was that he refused to go to court because he could not afford an attorney and he didn't trust the public defender! Yep, I was judgmental - to essentially thumb your nose at the judge [which is how a failure to appear is viewed by most judges] because you do not trust the attorney that the judge will appoint to assist you is idiotic, counter-productive, irresponsible, and it is setting up an uphill battle that can be won, but which is more problematic and involved than should be the case. These are two separate and distinct DUIs with different facts and different issues, even though they are now set on the same date for a new arraignment, and I charge and receive $7,500 for a DUI locally [Indio], and much more at a distance, because of the quality of my work, the excessive time and effort I put into the matters, and the often astounding results I can pull off, so that would theoretically cost Kevin $15,000 if in Indio, and potentially much more at that distance, but I offered him a fee of $10,000 for both, chopping off $5,000. He went nuts and only then started criticizing my tone. [Many of the top-rung DUI specialists charge more than that through trial for one DUI case, let alone two!] I am sure Kevin has found low-ballers who charge much less. There is a group of attorneys statewide who will charge $2,500, or less, and will make a couple of appearances, and then will, with earnestness leaking from all their pores, tell you that you have to plead guilty, but they will have gotten you a "good deal" of on;y 10 days in jail for a first time DUI. [The statutory minimum is zero days, and everyone appearing on their own can get the 10 day "deal"!] Unlike me, they don;t do extensive motions, back-room fights, trials, etc., to maximize their clients' position. I told Kevin that before he hired one of those bottom-feeders, he would be better off with the public defender, who does fight for their clients, and generally effectively so. I wished him best of luck and I thought that was the end of Kevin Steele and me. Not everyone can afford me; but few transfer that into an attack on me! But Kevin decided to deflect his own self-loathing by attacking me instead of following that sage advice. That is always a big mistake, for courts, prosecutors, whomever.
Posted by Holly | March 03, 2015 | DUI & DWI
Out of state bench warrant and dui
Mr. Kennedy represented me for my bench warrant and DUI case in California. He is knowledgeable, confident, and strategically plans your defense based on the facts of your case and his experience. I do not reside in the state of California, so all of our communication was done by phone and email. He...
Posted by Mark | March 03, 2015 | DUI & DWI
DUI
I was pulled over last year and placed under arrest for DUI. I was directed to contact Michael Kennedy because of his good reputation. I contacted Mike and after talking with him I decided to retain his services. He is a bull dog in the court room and fights for you. My case did take some time to get...
Posted by anonymous | January 07, 2014
I AM A VERY DISSATISFIED CLIENT OF MICHAEL JAMES KENNEDY
MR. KENNEDY REALLY DIDN'T SEEM TO KNOW WHAT HE WAS DOING. HE WRITES BELOW: "I don't know of one CLIENT who would not come back to me if they ran into trouble again ... " I AM 1 CLIENT WHO WILL NEVER GO BACK TO HIM, SEND HIM ANY WORK, OR OTHERWISE. HE DID A VERY HALF HEARTED JOB, IN MY OPINION,...
Michael Kennedy
Replied last January 07, 2014I think I know exactly who the cretin is who is posting this, and he is a competitor, and one thing that makes it all clear - I have not had any appellate clients who have paid me $20,000. The biggest disservice this AVVO system makes to the public is that they allow anonymous attacks, and they allow libelous attacks that without federal internet protection., would be very profitable for the person who is wrongfully attacked. That is a thing the Congress is going to have to review, because one's reputation is a property interest, and to allow, by law, it to be trashed is constitutionally despicable. However, one can read the comments of those who know me best [here and on LinkedIn], those who see me in court and who are taught by me at seminars, and he or she can draw their own conclusions about my scholarship, effectiveness, and qualities as an attorney. I don't recall a real client who has complained to me about anything I did or didn't do, and if they had real complaints [and if they were really clients and not competitors], they would complaint to the State Bar. The problem for them with that is that they would have to reveal their identities! And then the fraud would be exposed. No one works harder, nor more competently, than I in the service of those victimized by overreaching government - and some of my competitors know that and want to bring me down to their level. People attacked Galileo too.
Posted by anonymous | December 19, 2013 | Appeals
Don't believe the hype!
Would not recommend! This Attorney is somewhat arrogant and despot. The only time he spends explaining anything in detail and (mostly telling you how great he is at appeals), is when he is courting your business for retainer, the rest of the time he seems perturbed by any questions regarding a case. ...
Michael Kennedy
Replied last December 19, 2013This is an utter falsehood, doubtlessly penned by competitors, possibly by the same one who penned the other false nasty-ism. People can see from the other comments about me that whoever is publishing this bilge has some agenda other than expressing the truth. One thing that makes it clear that this is false is that I never brag about appeals outcomes, because I know our appeals courts are quixotic and unreliable and I never predict what the outcome will be, nor can any attorney. It is interesting and telling that those who anonymously try to bring me down on this site have never complained to the State Bar about my performance, because unlike this "service," which will publish anything, the Bar requires proof and identity of those complaining. AVVO really needs to rethink its policy of permitting libelous utterances on these pages, hiding, as it does, behind the protection unwisely afforded by federal law for internet defamation. I have many, many happy clients, past and present, and I don't know of one who would not come back to me if they ran into trouble again [and there are many who have come back to me], because the results of my efforts on the behalf of those accused of crimes is unsurpassed. Naturally, if appeals or trial outcomes do not favor a criminal defendant, many times they start looking for someone to blame, since looking in the mirror frequently produces an unwelcome image, but if this comment really has been written by someone who is unhappy about the outcome of something I did, he or she needs to be reminded that I am not the one who committed any crime; I am the one who tried to put the horses back in the barn after they were loosed by this individual's activity. Perhaps falsely attacking me makes them happy or gives them a measure of peace that was disrupted by their own conduct, but if so, that is perverse. But I think I know who is doing this, and it is not an unhappy client, and there will be a deserved reckoning. As an aside, because I don't think it applies to this false attack, people should understand that appeals are a risky business, because about 98% of trial outcomes are affirmed on appeal: appeals in this state are not a remedy often obtained.
Michael James Kennedy's Lawyer Endorsements
"Michael Kennedy is one of the most intelligent, dedicated, and bold attorneys I have had the privilege to learn from. He is truly an advocate for justice, and one of the greatest defenders of the Constitution that you will find in Riverside County and the surrounding counties. Through hard work, true intellectual brilliance, and experience, Mr. Kennedy (aka Captain Motion) has earned the right to be the boldest justice advocate in SoCal, and the judges take notice when the Captain challenges the prosecution. Captain has been a mentor and a hero to me for as long as I've known him. I am privileged to have him as a colleague. If I ever faced criminal charges, Captain would be my first call. He's a hero, a champion, an outspoken wizard in legal matters. Thank you Captain for all you do to promote justice and to halt the overreaching of the government. We have all learned from you, and it's been our privilege. I wholeheartedly endorse this attorney."
"I've seen some of the motion work he has done. I have seen him at seminars he's given for attorneys. I have heard about his results from fellow attorneys. He may seem eccentric at times. But no one in the criminal defense business, including judges, and of course DA's, and including the "criminal law specialists," know their stuff like this man. Anyone who is not aware of that, including judges, and opposing prosecutors, learn that REAL fast. My endorsement for Mr. Kennedy is one word: Amazing."
"Michael Kennedy is in a class of his own as a criminal defense attorney in Southern California. His zeal in fighting for the constitutional freedoms our founders envisioned is UNMATCHED, and I envy and admire his incredible ability to do so. I endorse this lawyer."
"I found Mr. Kennedy's "Ruminations on Motions" from a seminar and sample motions online while doing some research. After reading his material, I'm thoroughly convinced this man is a champion of liberty and the constitution. His writing skills are impressive."
"I endorse this lawyer.This lawyer has an expertise in DUI defense. By attending DUI seminars throughout the year to keep up on the latest in the law, field sobriety testing, blood testing, and breath testing, this attorney is an asset to the clients. I endorse this lawyer."
"Outstanding."
"I have known Michael for about 24 years, I opposed him when I was a prosecutor, and have seen him perform hundreds of times. Michael is legendary in the legal community. Referred to as "Captain Motion," Michael's research and writing skills are second to none. But, he is equally skilled within the courtroom. He is afraid of nothing, and never gives up. Hire Michael, I would"
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael Kennedy is one of the most respected constitutional lawyers in the State of California. Captain Motion as he is known is a knowledgeable scholar and sought after speaker and consultant. Anyone arrested for DUI in Palm Springs, Riverside or anywhere in the Inland Empire is doing a disservice to himself if he does not contact Michael Kennedy immediately."
"I endorse this lawyer. GREAT LAWYER!"
"Michael Kennedy is an icon in the legal community. His research and writing skills have earned him the title of "Captain Motion". He is the consummate lawyer's lawyer. I highly recommend him."
"Michael Kennedy is the most tenacious lawyer in America when it comes to filing and fighting pre-trial motions in criminal cases. That is why he is nationally known as CAPTAIN MOTION. If you are in criminal trouble, this is YOUR GUY."
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is a fantastic lawyer. I have referred clients to him and they were delighted with his work. I would highly recommend him."
"I endorse this lawyer!"
"Mr. Kennedy is a practicing scholar: fearless, relentless, and unyielding in the defense of his clients and the constitution. Experienced DUI lawyers and criminal defense attorneys across the state turn to him for insight, strategies and ideas. I strongly endorse him."
"You really can't get a much better lawyer than Michael Kennedy. He is truly in the top 1/10 of one percent of criminal defense lawyers. He is devoted to staying current on the law, generous with his time and a fierce, fierce advocate. I have called him up repeatedly and he has been unfailingly helpful. Perhaps what sets Michael apart, however, is his grasp of the subtleties of the law, his mastery of a wide variety of negotiation techniques and how best to present a motion to the court. If you want the best criminal defense attorney, Michael is the man. If I were a prosecutor facing Michael, I would be concerned I were about to be embarrassed."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Michael defends the US Constitution one case at a time. It's not just a tag-line. It is his mission, and he takes his duty and obligations to his clients seriously. He is a zealous advocate in the courtroom and has an excellent string of victories under his belt. I recommend and endorse him without any reservation."
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael Kennedy works tirelessly and aggressively to defend his client's rights. He is a constitutional scholar and fierce advocate for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. Whether Mr. Kennedy is speaking at a seminar, or providing his vast expertise on any given criminal issue, I stop and listen. I go to him for direction with tough legal questions and he never ceases to amaze me. I heartily recommend him and have referred cases to him if you're looking for the best attorney you can get!"
"Michael is one of the most dynamic lawyers in the country. He is a tireless advocate for his clients and other lawyers' clients as well. I have had the pleasure of hearing Michael speak to both state and national practitioners many, many times. Each time he has always been very impressive. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to see Michael's advocacy behind the scenes. You could not hire a better, more prepared lawyer than Michael."
Peter Nolan
Criminal defense lawyer
James Terrell
Criminal defense lawyer
Bianca Jimenez
Criminal defense lawyer
Hilda Zamora
Criminal defense lawyer
Meghan Taylor
DUI and DWI lawyer
John VanDervoort
DUI and DWI lawyer
Gary Smith
Criminal defense lawyer
Manuel Barba
DUI and DWI lawyer
Miguel Valente
Criminal defense lawyer
Derek Devermont
DUI and DWI lawyer
George Mueller
DUI and DWI lawyer
Darryl Genis
DUI and DWI lawyer
Experience
Professional misconduct
This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 1994.
Public reproval with/duties issued in CA, 1994
updated on 02/21/2015A censure or reprimand issued by the Supreme Court or the State Bar Court that is not a matter of public record unless imposed after the initiation of formal disciplinary proceedings. No period of suspension is imposed. The reproval may be imposed with duties or conditions.
Michael’s comment:
“Solely for two drunk driving incidents within 6 years of each other, over 20 years ago. Never anything related to competence nor ethics. If drunk driving disqualified a person from serving the public's needs, GW Bush could not have been president, Don Rumsfeld could not have been secretary of defense, and Dick Cheney could not have been vice president!”
Honors
2015
Top Lawyers, Palm Springs Life Magazine
2013
Lifetime Achievement Award, The Private Defenders of California, Inc.
2012
Top Trial Lawyers, Palm Springs Life Magazine
2011
Lifetime Achievement Award ["The Eddie"], California DUI Lawyers Association
2011
Top Trial Lawyers, Palm Springs Life Magazine
2010
Top Trial Lawyers, Palm Springs Life Magazine
Work Experience
2012 - Present
Attorney - Owner, Law Office of Michael J. Kennedy
2007 - 2012
Attorney at Law, Kennedy & Roe
2004 - 2007
Attorney at Law, Ledger & Kennedy
1991 - 2004
Deputy Public Defender, San Bernardino County Public Defender
1986 - 1991
Attorney at Law, Law Office of Michael J. Kennedy
1984 - 1986
Deputy District Attorney, District Attorney of Riverside County
1982 - 1984
Attorney at Law, United States District Court
Associations
2014 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseFaculty; California Delegate
2006 - Present
California DUI Lawyers AssociationBoard of Directors
2004 - Present
California Attorneys for Criminal JusticeMember
1990 - Present
California Public Defenders AssociationMember
Sample of Legal Cases
People v. Kent Morgan
Trtal acquittal.
Education
1981
Southwestern Univ SOL
Juris Doctor
N/A
Widener Univ
B.A.
Speaking Engagements
2015
Many, many, starting date 1990 through date below
Criminal, Constitutional Law and Defense
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
Licence was suspended 24 years ago for dui (meth) will i have to still get a ignition interlock device ?
21 Jan 2019
Q&A
What is my LIKELY sentence if I plead guilty/no contest to a DUI with these circumstances?
21 Jan 2019
Q&A
Are there any chances of my dui case being dismissed if i blew a 0.8? Provided i hire a DUI lawyer
28 Feb 2018