Licensed for 9 years

State CA

Acquired 2014

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

Michael Wayne Donaldson

DUI and DWI Attorney at Temecula, CA

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Even Professional People Need to Consult Attorneys

I am an education professional; I became embroiled in a situation where a group of young people were fabricating an assault story to get back at me for disciplinary actions that were pending against them; I needed advice on what to do (and, not do)...and I needed it AT THAT MOMENT. I called Mr. Donaldson; he immediately provided me with the counsel I needed, confirmed the pathway I needed to follow, and allowed me to move forward, confident in my rights. Subsequently, other witnesses were located who corroborated my story, and the collaborators' plot was exposed...but, when you are being accused, you need a top-notch attorney's guidance AT THAT MOMENT, regardless of whether you've had time to sign a contract or not. Mr. Donaldson came through for me in my hour of need. That's a true professional, a man of integrity.

Can’t recommend Mike ENOUGH!

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

DUI and DWI

70%

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Marijuana DUI, Alcohol DUI

9 years
Criminal defense

20%

Assault, Battery, Theft Crimes, Burglarly, DUI, Drug Possession, Drug Sales, Drug Transportation, Restraining Orders, Domestic Violence, Hit & Run, Expungements, Violations of Probation, Termination of Probation, Certificates of Rehabilitation, and more . . .
... Read more
9 years
Personal injury

10%

Attorney with Bartell, Hensel & Gressley. Authors of the leading DUI defense practice guide, and nation-wide lecturers on DUI defense.

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5.0 / 5.0

32 customer reviews

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Posted by Daniel | September 3, 2019

Even Professional People Need to Consult Attorneys

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Posted by Anthony | September 10, 2018

Can’t recommend Mike ENOUGH!

Couldn’t say enough good things about Mike Donaldson. Took on multiple cases for me at a very affordable price. As other people said on other review sites, he genuinely cares about me. I am very satisfied with the results that I got from Mike. And I can’t thank him enough. I have tried to recommend so many people to him. I highly suggest using him. I can’t say that enough. Mike worked wonders for me.

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Posted by Grecia | May 16, 2018

Expungement

Mike Donaldson helped me expunge a shoplifting conviction. He took care of everything; I just had one meeting with him and he filed the expungement immediately. I got the Misdemeanor dismissed within a month. Donaldson updated me throughout the entire process. He was fast, kind, and professional. I would highly recommend him. Also, it is worth mentioning that it has been a year and I emailed Donaldson regarding lost documents and additional information about my case. He emailed back within hours, with the documents attached and all my questions answered. Mike Donaldson goes above and beyond for his clients. I am truly thankful that I found him.

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Posted by Mark | November 15, 2017

Second to None

I'm truly grateful for having found Mike when I was looking for an attorney. While I needed assistance with a relatively simple legal process, the circumstances surrounding my case made it anything but. After speaking with Mike and explaining my circumstances he still quoted me a lower price than the advertised price of other attorneys I had spoken with. When the time came for a court appearance, Mike voluntarily offered assistance so I could make it to court. Without this act of generosity my case would certainly have been considerably delayed. When we finally arrived at and I was called before the court, within moments the judge expressed his gratitude for my attorneys preparedness. At no moment did I feel like simply another account that's needed to be closed. And at all times I felt as if I was being treated to the highest level of service Mike was capable of providing. I whole heartedly believe you'd be hard pressed to find a better attorney and I am confident the majority would fall undeniably short.

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Posted by Daniel | November 15, 2017

awesome

Could not of asked for a better experience! Mike is passionate and efficient in what he does, always available for questions and keeps you well informed about the process along the way. I would definitely recommend him for anybody finding themselves in need of a great attorney!!

Posted by Kay | September 27, 2017

The most genuine, perfessional, caring attorney in the I.E.

There is not enough I can say about this guy. If you are looking for an attorney who seriously, genuinely cares about his client, and his clients case Michael Donaldson is the real deal. During my search for an attorney I couldn't even get a call back from the attorneys in the area. Michael not only returned my call himself, he listened to my situation, and before ever mentioning any kind of investments for receiving his services I felt completely, and entirely comfortable with the idea of everything discussed. Being nervous, and not so sure about my situation, and the outcome he was the perfect choice. Ultimately in a very short span of time something that had been hovering over my head for almost 8 years was dropped, gone, and no longer an issue. Wow, just wow. Thank you Michael I would not have been able to peruse my current lifestyle if not for your help. Thank you soo much you are very appreciated for your services , and the friendly kind person that you are. Thank you.

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Response from Michael Donaldson October 13, 2017

Thanks, KD! You the bomb. Hope you stay out here in CA with us for a while.

Posted by Angelica | September 25, 2017

Clearing a false misdemeanor.

Mike did a great job clearing my daughter's false misdemeanor. He kept us in the loop of what was going on and was very approachable. Hopefully, we will not need his services in the future but if we do, I will definitely call him again!!!

Response from Michael Donaldson October 13, 2017

Hi Angelica. Very happy we could get your daughter's name cleared of those false charges. I hope she enjoys the wonderful and bright future she has worked so hard for. Best of luck!

Posted by Daniel | August 28, 2017

Couldn't have asked for better

I interviewed several lawyers before hiring Mr. Donaldson. They all seemed to be in a rush and didn't want to help me understand what the process was and communication seemed poor. After I contacted Mr. Donaldson I knew I found the guy i wanted to hire. He took the time to explain the process and what we would be doing. Every time i had a question he responded and was clear about the step we were taking in fact I rarely contacted him first, he is on it. The whole process of expungement and reducing my sentence was about what he had thought it would be and was simply a pleasure to deal with. I don't know about others but great communication is key for me and can't stand getting voicemails or sending emails with no response. He is very professional and will be recommending him to anyone i run into that could use his service, although i hope to never need to. The rate he charged was very much in line with others but with better service. If you are reading reviews like I did before hiring someone this is the guy you need to call. Thank you Mike !!!

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Response from Michael Donaldson October 13, 2017

Thanks, Danny! You the man!

Posted by Chris | June 13, 2017

Professional

Like Dawsons the man if you want to get a record expunged no hassles to the point and keep you updated and I completely recommend this man for the job thanks Mike

Response from Michael Donaldson October 13, 2017

Thanks, Chris! Maybe one day I'll get some money together and come buy a boat or jet ski or something. You'll have to show me how to ride one of those things though. Take care man.

Posted by anonymous | April 19, 2017

help with case

I hired Mike Donaldson to help me with early termination of probation and expunge my record. He was quick to request a hearing and was able to get me off on the first hearing. Price was fair and on par with other lawyers in the area.

Posted by David | April 8, 2017

Great job!

Mike Donaldson did a great job handling my DUI case. He took over the case from my former attorney who really screwed things up. Mike got everything straightened out, and got my penalties greatly reduced. Since I moved out of state while the case was ongoing Mike did all the research on how to pay my fine, attend online dui classes, etc. Mike is very knowledgeable and professional and I highly recommend him.

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Posted by Steve | April 5, 2017

Quick and easy

I hired to Mike Donaldson to reduce some of the charges against my name. He is very easy to work with, trustworthy and accomplished it in a shot amount of time. Highly recommended. Thanks Mike Best regards Steve

Posted by John | February 16, 2017

Mike Donaldson-Criminal Defense

We offer the highest possible recommendation for Mike Donaldson to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney. We engaged his services on behalf of our son, a very young adult. Our first impression of Mike -- patient, professional, compassionate and real -- proved consistent throughout the course of our legal journey. He genuinely cared about our situation, and was easily accessible. Ours was not an exciting case, yet he was fully invested. He helped us understand the process, the time frames involved, and to see the big picture, which made our problems seem possible to overcome. I felt reassured that the outcome of our son’s case was as important to Mike as it was to us, and he kept us from falling apart. Mike is a great person, who really cares about his clients.

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Posted by RAUL S. | January 13, 2017

11360 A REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

3 reviews 5.0 star rating 1/12/2017 Atty. Mike Donaldson, has helped me achieve the greatest gift of all, and that is my freedom!! 18 years ago i made a mistake that has haunted me for almost 2 decades. I retained an attorney to help me reduce a felony to a misdemeanor , but he was not able to do so. I was so frustrated and out of my hard earned money! Then i found mike who with in 5 minutes of speaking with him, made me realize that i had had hired the wrong guy. it was a bit pricey, but he worked with me on a reasonable payment plan, and today! he succeeded where others had failed! my felony was reduced to a misdemeanor! i got my rights back!!!! and the money was well spent! i want to tell mike from the bottom of my heart that i am so grateful for his services, and so is my family, who has struggled with this obstacle with me for the past few years! if you need an attorney who answers your call and gets results done,he is the man!

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Response from Michael Donaldson January 16, 2017

Happy for you and your family, Raul. Take it easy and enjoy!

Posted by anonymous | January 10, 2017

Ethical, Professional & Genuinely Invested

My name is Freeman. Attorney Donaldson treated me with the compassion, dignity and respect that you would expect from a high level attorney. He listened, he applied the best approach to having my Felony conviction reduced to a misdemeanor and he was successful. I've been emancipated from being a convicted felon. Now I'm eligible to have the misdemeanor convictions dismissed all together. I have a new lease on life. I can now apply for life insurance again. I can now apply for high earning employment. Now I can redeem my image in the eyes of my family. Thank you for everything you did for me and my family Attorney Donaldson.

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Response from Michael Donaldson January 11, 2017

You're the man, LF. Pleasure meeting you and very happy Prop 64 helped you out! Best wishes to you and your family down the road.

Posted by anonymous | January 10, 2017

Misdemeanor expunged

Mike was very prompt and attentive in expunging my misdemeanor. I appreciated that he always made himself available to answer any questions or concerns I had. I highly recommend Mike. He is professional, knowledgeable, and results oriented.

Posted by Maureen | November 9, 2016

Expungment

Mr. Donaldson, I would like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me expunge my record. Mike is a great attorney, most of all very honest and shows so much respect when dealing with people. Mr. Donaldson kept me informed every step of the way, nothing beats a lawyer who constantly communicates with his clients. I was unable to meet with Mr. Mike during normal business hours due to my work schedule, Mr. Mike was nice enough to accommodate me by working around my work schedule, which I was very grateful for. Also, the fee that I was charged was very reasonable for the amazing work he did. Trust me the other attorneys I called before Mike were charging very large amount, and I appreciated the fact that Mr. Mike took the time to listen to my case, and accessed the workload involved before quoting a price. If you looking for a lawyer to help expunge your record, well look no further Mr Mike Donaldson got you covered. If I could give ten stars I will. God bless you Mr. Mike Donaldson, glad I made that call.

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Posted by Brittany | October 25, 2016

Excellent Attorney

We highly recommend Mr. Donaldson. He provided excellent and quality service. We always felt that our needs were met and that he was invested in us and our case. He was easily accessible, got back to us quickly and got us the results that we wanted. He truly made a difference in our lives after getting 3 cases expunged from my husband's record. Attorney Donaldson is the quality of an attorney that anyone would want when hire. We thank him for everything he has done for us.

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Posted by Jonathan | October 24, 2016

Professional and courteous

Michael helped me resolve my legal matter effectively and efficiently. Highly recommend.

Posted by Matthew | September 21, 2016

3rd DUI

Mike Donaldson is aiding me in the process of getting my 2 recent DUI's dismissed. That is 100% true. He is considerate and whole heartedly cares about my future as well as in my ability to support my daughter. I am a USMC combat veteran who opted to retain Mike rather than a court appointed attorney not only because of his hard work ethic but the connection I have with him as a client and now dear friend.

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Response from Michael Donaldson January 16, 2017

Happy to help, big Matt!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Professor of Political Science
Mount San Jacinto College
2015 - Present

Professor of Legal Research and Writing
Mt. San Jacinto College Foundation
2015 - Present

Attorney
The Law Office of Michael W. Donaldson
2015 - Present

Associate
Green & Hall
2013 - 2015

Clerk
Merced County Public Defender
2012 - 2013

Clerk
Santa Clara University School Of Law
2010 - 2012

Clerk
Santa Clara County Public Defender's Office
2010 - 2012

Clerk
Northern California Innocence Project
2010 - 2011

Clerk
Santa Clara County Public Defender's Office
2009 - 2010

Intern
California Rural Legal Assistance
2006 - 2008

View all work experience

Education

Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College
2017

Santa Clara University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2012

University of California - Santa Cruz
BA - Bachelor of Arts
2008

Legal Cases

State v. NK
Both charges reduced to misdemeanors.

State v. JA
After briefing, the conviction was expunged.

State v. JD
Case dismissed.

View all legal cases

Associations

Riverside County Bar Association, Solo Practice
Co-chair
2017 - Present

Inland Empire Latino Lawyers Association
Volunteer Attorney
2016 - Present

California Public Defenders Association
Attorney Member
2016 - Present

California DUI Lawyers Association
Attorney Member
2016 - Present

Riverside County Bar Association
Attorney Member
2015 - Present

Southwest Riverside County Bar Association
Attorney Member
2015 - Present

California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
Attorney Member
2015 - Present

American Bar Association
Attorney Member
2015 - Present

Riverside County Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
Attorney
2015 - Present

State Bar of California
Attorney Member
2014 - Present

Southwest Riverside County Bar Association
President-Elect
2018 - 2019

Southwest Riverside County Bar Association
Vice President
2016 - 2017

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Client's Choice
Avvo
2016

CALI Excellence for the Future Award - Criminal Procedure
Santa Clara University School of Law
2011

CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Post-Conviction Practice
Santa Clara University School of Law
2011

First Place - Law School Talent Show
Santa Clara University School of Law
2011

Pro Bono Award
Santa Clara University School of Law
2010

View all awards

Publications

Riverside Lawyer Magazine
Ready to Inhale: California Voters Approve Proposition 64
2017

Marijuana.com
Could Prop 64 Erase Some of the Damage Done by Marijuana Arrests?
2016

Vice.com
California to Vote on Wiping Old Weed Arrests
2016

Riverside County Lawyer Magazine
The RCBA Elves Program
2016

Mt. San Jacinto College
Menifee Mayoral Debate
2016

My Valley News
Menifee Mayoral Debate
2016

The Press Enterprise
Prop 47 Giving Ex-Addict 'Another Shot at Life'
2016

Riverside County Lawyer Magazine
Bar Membership
2015

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Expungement Clinic
Expungements, Prop 47, Felony Reductions
2016

Another Shot
Prop 47
2016

Menifee Mayoral Debate
Criminal Justice
2016

Southwest Riverside County Bar Association
Legislative Updates in California's Marijuana Laws
2016

Expungement Clinic
Expungements, Motions to Terminate Probation
2016

Expungement Clinic
Expungements
2016

Expungement Clinic
Expungements
2016

Expungement Clinic
Expungements
2015

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)

Given (18)

Endorse Michael

Ibrahim Awad

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I had the pleasure of meeting Mike at the Trial Lawyers College. He is an incredibly compassionate man who truly cares about his clients. I hope I never need his services, but if I do, I would be grateful to have his experience on my case."

Alan Adriance

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Donaldson is not only an extremely personable individual with whom it is easy to get along, he is also quite a talented attorney. I have personally found him to be informed and knowledgeable and would not hesitate to contact him for assistance. An individual in need of his services could not do better elsewhere. I endorse this lawyer."

Douglas Sherrod

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Donaldson puts the well-being of his clients above all else, and brings his extensive experience in the public defender's office to bear on every case. He's seen it all. When I need to refer someone to an attorney in the Temecula area, he's the guy I call. Highly recommended."

Neda Aguirre

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Donaldson is a zealous attorney who is very knowledgeable, professional, and caring. I highly recommend Mr. Donaldson."

Eric Dumars

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 18
Relationship: Co-worker

"I know Mr. Donaldson as an aggressive, hard working and excellent advocate for his clients. He is trustworthy and will vigorously defend your rights and your freedom. I endorse this lawyer."

DUI and DWI

Car accident

DUI and DWI

DUI and DWI

Business

Criminal defense

DUI and DWI

Personal injury

Criminal defense

Criminal defense

DUI and DWI

Immigration

Criminal defense

Criminal defense

Criminal defense

Criminal defense

Patent application

Criminal defense

Avvo Contributions

22 Legal Answers 1 Legal Guides

LEGAL GUIDE
How to Get a Restricted License While a First Offense DUI Charge is Pending
09 Apr 2021
Q&A
Is there anything I can do to have the case expunged or dismissed? Is there a chance I can possibly study to become a nurse?
06 May 2016
Q&A
If my employer runs my driving record, will my driving record show that I have got pulled over for a dui ?
01 Apr 2016
Q&A
On a rental application, what should be said and how much detail should be given in response to question noted in situation?
19 Mar 2016

Michael Wayne Donaldson

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