Michael Laurence Fell

PRO

Michael Laurence Fell

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 36 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Irvine, CA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Juvenile

900 Roosevelt, Irvine, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Michael

Biography

Former Sr. Dep. District Attorney of Orange County -18+ yrs as DDA- Board Certified in Criminal Law

Former Senior Dep. District Attorney of Orange County Now a Top OC DUI Lawyer

Former Senior Dep. District Attorney of Orange County Now Voted a Top OC Defense Lawyer

Former Senior Dep. District Attorney of Orange County Supervised Juvenile Court DA's Office

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

50%
DUI and DWI 40%

40%
Juvenile Law 10%

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020
...
+ 9
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2013

Licenses

Licensed in California for 36 years

State: California

Acquired: 1989

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office of Michael L. Fell

900 Roosevelt, Irvine, CA, 92620

mfellattorneyatlaw.com/

Michael Laurence Fell's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

151 Client Reviews

Showing 11 - 15 of 42 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Meredith | June 12, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

HIGHLY Recommended!!

I could not have asked for a better lawyer! I had a challenging case that began with me unexpectedly behind bars (and for the first time ever involved in the legal system). Mike Fell was not chosen at random--he was referred to my family for his specialty and professionalism...by another accredite...d member in the legal community. He met me in the jail, explained how the process would work, presented information in a manner I could understand (as a person who had never been involved with the law on any level). Mike Fell made no promises of outcome but DID promise that he would be fully available to me at this frightening time in my life, and he promised he would do the best he could with my case--and I believe that is exactly what I got. If I were ever in ANY situation that required legal representation, I would not hesitate to hire Mike Fell again. I cannot say enough positive things about Mike Fell. Professional, responsive, knowledgeable, honest, empathetic, reliable.

Posted by anonymous | June 06, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Best Attorney in Orange County (Arrested on Police sting for furnishing alcohol to a minor)

I am a business professional that was arrested in one of the buy beer for a minor in front of a seven eleven sting. It was one of the stupidest things Ive ever done. After being cited for the misdemeanor, I contacted Michael Fell and he quickly got back to me. He met me the next morning and walked me... through exactly what to expect. I hired him because of his experience in the DA's office. He is very connected and knows the local prosecutors well. He more then exceeded my expectations getting the entire case dropped before charges were even filed! If you don't retain Micheal you're making a big mistake, he really is the best of the best in OC! I really hope this helps anyone going through a tough situation and a big decision similar to what I went through. As a person who never writes reviews I felt compelled to share because of how great of an experience I had!

Posted by Kimberly | January 19, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Best of the Best

I hired Mike about 3 weeks before my civil harassment court hearing and to say he's the reason I won the case would be an understatement. Walking into court with him by your side is simply the way to win your case. Not only was he very understanding and caring, he was a complete professional. He is e...xtremely compassionate and gave me hope when I didn't have very much. Mike is the best attorney in Orange County, possibly even in Southern California! He keeps you very much in the loop and is in constant communication. I'm so happy to have found him, and thank God everyday that I did. Mike didn't look at me as just another case file on his desk, he looked at me as a person that he was going to protect and a friend. I am forever grateful to have had Mike. Thank you.

Posted by Southern California Resident | November 16, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Micheal Fell is much more than an talented lawyer, he really cares

I never thought I'd need a lawyer, but I feel so blessed to have discovered the most intelligent and honest legal counsel. I searched for several days, cross-checked reviews, only to be disappointed and even more unsure of what to do or who to hire. Mr. Fell was the first lawyer that had great r...eviews on every site out there and there is a reason for that: He is the BEST! I am not just saying that because he really knows his way through legal waters (he is a Pro). Of course he got my case dismissed and gave me back my future, but he actually really cares about the people he takes on. From the second I called in and was kindly greeted by his staff, to my free consultation where he learns about you and cares about who you are and what makes you tick. He gives you all the potential scenarios, he knows how the legal system works here (after my experience I learned that this is very important), he explains all the options, keeps you updated through the whole process... He helps you feel like you are not in this alone. Until I met Mr. Fell I thought all lawyers had an angle, were dishonest, didn't care, only hardly contacted you. If you are worried about cost, he offered a reasonable flat rate for my case (You do get what you pay for and he is worth every penny and more). He does offer a free consultation and I was able to talk to him for an hour... even a little more (he is so patient and really cares about listening to your worries). If he ran for president, I'd vote for him in a heartbeat. He cares about helping others and has a real business and life ethic working on his side. Mr. Fell did so much more more for me than help me get my case DISMISSED. He helped shed light and awareness and offered me some great resources and guidance to ensure I have a successful future. He could easily have a side business as life coach. Thank you again so much Mr. Fell for everything! And those of you who are reading this review, stop looking, you found your legal counsel. Call his offices today!

Posted by Yasmin Martinelli | October 18, 2016 | Criminal Defense

Direct, charismatic, and genuine from the start

I have found myself overwhelmed and distressed lately, dealing with a case from 10 years ago when I was young, impressionable, and mixing with the wrong crowd. It's been tricky to find someone I feel like I can trust who truly cares about me and my best interests. My life is at stake right now! Altho...ugh I have not yet hired Mr. Fell, I did see him in court yesterday and the way he communicated with his clients, other attorneys, and the judge instilled confidence in me. I could sense that he is a talented lawyer and a charming person. Already from our brief initial telephone conversation, he was so nice and genuinely interested about the details of my case and was sympathetic to me. This must be due to his true passion for law and justice and his expertise in this field. I found him to be different from other attorneys that I have spoken with who seem to have very little empathy. They immediately bring up how much it costs to hire them without really showing interest or concern for you as a person. Mr. Fell is different. In short, don't hesitate to drop him a line if you find yourself in a bind.

See All Client Reviews

Michael Laurence Fell's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Jana Santiago Burrell headshot
Jana Santiago Burrell

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 10

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is highly regarded in the legal field as being exceptionally knowledgeable, experienced and an ethical criminal defense lawyer. Aside from his many accolades, Michael truly stands above most attorneys based on the amount of care and work he exerts on every case he handles. He takes his time with every person he comes in contact with, and fights compassionately and respectfully for their best interest. He is able to develop some of the best negotiations with his vast knowledge of the legal system, creativity and integrity. If you need someone to be there every step of the way and represent your criminal case, call Mike!"

Dan Tudor Danet headshot
Dan Danet

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 14

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Michael Fell is the real deal - a compassionate, committed, and brilliant attorney. Great listener and truly treats his clients like family. Anyone in need of legal representation would be fortunate to have Attorney Fell in their corner."

Adam Jackson headshot
Adam Jackson

Criminal defense lawyer | May 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Fell is one of the most widely respected attorneys in Orange County for his dedication, compassion, and work ethic. Incredibly knowledgeable and a force to be reckoned with. Hire him today. Highly recommended."

Mary Candice Bryner headshot
Mary Bryner

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend Mike Fell. Mr. Fell is an extremely qualified lawyer who truly cares about his clients. He is an excellent communicator, very approachable and well respected in the legal community."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Staycie Renee Sena headshot
Staycie Sena

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Jason Salvin headshot
David Salvin

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mr. Fell for many years now, and have always found his dedication and diligence in all legal matters to be of the highest caliber. All of his clients are very well represented."

Jonathan Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

Juvenile law lawyer | Mar 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I worked with Mike through my high net-worth individual representation. A grandson of my client got into some trouble and Mike was able to negotiate very serious charges down to probation and dismissal. I endorse this lawyer."

Nicholas Milan Loncar headshot
Nicholas Loncar

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lewis Robert Rosenblum headshot
Lewis Rosenblum

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Each lawyer you meet is different in terms of their knowledge of the law, their ability to persuade and their concern for their clients. Finding someone with all those talents is rare indeed. Michael Fell has consistently demonstrated he possesses exceptional talents in all those areas. I have known Michael Fell for almost 20 years and find him to be extraordinarily honest and caring. He will fight to the end in order to insure that his clients receive the best possible representation. He is easy to talk to, always accessible and will work tirelessly for what he believes in. If you are looking for someone who will be in your corner from beginning to end, look no further. He is a top-notch lawyer who keeps his word. I recommend him highly."

Jeffrey Neal Stivers headshot
Jeffrey Stivers

Criminal defense lawyer | May 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mike Fell is an awesome attorney hands down. On top of being a great lawyer, Mike is a great human being. Very empathetic to everyone's needs around him and an all around genuinely nice guy. In the courtroom, he is just an awesome attorney. He knows the law inside and out and is a great communicator. I would highly, highly recommend him for any legal work that needs an aggressive and highly intelligent attorney."

Joseph Briscoe Dane headshot
Joseph Dane

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the honor and pleasure of knowing Mike for a number of years since our time together in the Orange County District Attorney's Office. We became colleagues as well as friends on and off the job. I can attest to Mike's exceptional legal knowledge and skill as well as his character. We have brainstormed legal issues back and forth and it's always great to have someone with Mike's perception spotting issues and finding ways to work through them. I have referred clients to Mike without hesitation and emphatically endorse his work."

Jon Mitchell Jackson headshot
Jon Jackson

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 09

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"For the past 18 years, Mike has been one of the top prosecutors with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. The range of cases he has handled while an Assistant District Attorney provided Mike with the type of criminal law background experience most attorneys can only dream of. Now that Mike has gone in to private practice, my office will be referring many of our valued clients to him who are in need of experienced and quality criminal defense services. When you are charged with a serious crime and, your freedom is at stake, you need to call Mike to protect your rights! Mitch Jackson/ Jackson & Wilson, Inc."

Payson Laurence Lederman headshot
Payson Lederman

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mike Fell for several years, since he was a Senior Deputy Orange County District Attorney. Now he is in private practice handling criminal defense matters. I am pleased to endorse him on Avvo. I recently referred him a serious felony case and he handled it beautifully - he got the case dismissed before it was even filed by the D.A.! Not that this will happen in every case necessarily, but I can truly say if I ever needed a criminal defense attorney, Mike it the first guy I would call."

Robert Richard Holmen headshot
Robert Holmen

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mike Fell for his entire legal career. He is a person of high integrity, great intelligence, strong insight and a passion for his profession and clients. I highly recommend Mike."

Brian Neal Gurwitz headshot
Brian Gurwitz

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"During his 18 years as an Orange County prosecutor, Michael Fell earned a strong reputation with judges, his peers, and opposing counsel. He was an extremely effective trial attorney known for his integrity and dedication to justice. Whether he was trying serious cases, mentoring the younger attorneys he supervised, or comforting crime victims, Mike was a model public servant who represented the People’s interests with dedication and class. The reputation Mike developed as a prosecutor will serve his clients well now that he has entered private practice. Many attorneys are effective in the courtroom. Some are caring and dedicated to their clients. Very few, like Mike, combine these skills into a single package. I would refer a friend or family member to him without hesitation."

View All Endorsements
Mary Candice Bryner headshot
Mary Bryner

Business lawyer

Stephen Daniel Weisskopf headshot
Stephen Weisskopf

Contracts and agreements lawyer

Lewis Robert Rosenblum headshot
Lewis Rosenblum

Criminal defense lawyer

Joseph Briscoe Dane headshot
Joseph Dane

Criminal defense lawyer

Brian Neal Gurwitz headshot
Brian Gurwitz

Criminal defense lawyer

Jon Mitchell Jackson headshot
Jon Jackson

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys, The American Society of Legal Advocates

2014

Voted one of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Orange County, OC Metro Magazine

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers

2013

Voted one of top criminal defense attorneys in Orange County, OC Metro Magazine

2012

Voted one of top criminal defense attorneys in Orange County, OC Metro Magazines

2011

Voted one of top criminal defense attorneys in Orange County, OC Metro Magazine

2006

Diligent Prosecutor Award, Mothers Against Drunk Driving

2003

Ambassador of Peace, Victims Rights Coalition of Orange County

2002

Certificate of Appreciation, Community Service Programs/Victim Assistance Programs

1996

Outstanding Service award, Mothers Against Drunk Driving

1995

Outstanding Service Award, Mothers Against Drunk Driving

1995

Lawyer of the Year - Mock Trial Competition, Constitutional Rights Foundation of Orange County

Work Experience

2009 - Present

Owner/CEO, Law Office of Michael L. Fell, A Professional Corporation

2008 - 2009

Senior California Trial Counsel, Feinberg Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt LLP

1989 - 2008

Senior Deputy District Attorney, Orange County District Attorney's Office

Associations

2007 - 2007

Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys - Civic Action Committee

Board Member

2006 - 2007

Orange County Attorneys' Association

Board Member

2003 - 2004

Westminster Police Department

Chief's Advisory Board Member

2003 - 2004

Orange County Department of Education - "Safe From The Start"

Committee Member

2002 - 2004

Orange County Constitutional Rights Foundation

Peer Court Advisory Panel

2002 - 2004

Children's Services Coordination Committee

District Attorney Representative

2002 - 2004

Juvenile Justice Commission

Advisory Member

2002 - 2004

Juvenile Justice Education Together (JJET)

Program Coordinator

2001 - 2002

Steinberg Leadership Institute

Chair

2001 - 2004

Anti-Defamation League

Board of Directors

2000 - 2001

Steinberg Leadership Institute

Participant

1999 - 2000

Orange County Constitutional Rights Foundation

Peer Court Advisory Panel

1997 - 2004

Orange County Fire Authority - Juvenile Fire Setting Offenders Program

Committee Advisory Panel

1997 - 1998

Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys - Civic Action Committee

Board Member

1997 - 2006

Orange County Bar Association

Board of Directors

1997 - 2001

Orange County Constitutional Rights Foundation

Board of Directors

1996 - 1997

Orange County Bar Association - Judicial Evaluations Committee

Committee Member/Sub-committee Chair

1996 - 2000

Orange County Bar Association

Youth-in-the-Law Day Coordinator

1995 - 2004

Orange County Constitutional Rights Foundation

Mock Trial Committee Member

1995 - 2008

California District Attorneys Association

Member

1995 - 1997

Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys

President

1994 - 1995

Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys

Treasurer

1992 - 1993

Orange County Inns of Court - Banyard Inn of Court

Member

1991 - 1992

Orange County Inns of Court - Legion Lex Inn of Court

Member

1990 - 2005

Orange County Constitutional Rights Foundation

High school coach, attorney scorer, judge

1989 - 2008

Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys

Member

1988 - 1989

Loyola Law Review

Editor

1987 - 1988

Loyola Law Review

Staff Writer

Education

1989

Loyola Law School

Juris Doctorate

1986

Univ of California Santa Barbara

Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2012

Whittier Law School

Criminal Justice

2012

Saddleback Church

Incarcerated Loved Ones

2012

Dino and Nelson Radio Show 1150 AM

Marsy's Law and Criminal Justice

2011

State Bar of California Annual Convention

Criminal Restitution

2010

San Diego POMC (Parents of Murdered Children)

Marsy's Law and The Criminal Justice System

2010

Orange County POMC (Parents of Murdered Children)

Marsy's Law and The Criminal Justice System

2010

Irvine Rotary Club

Marsy's Law and The Criminal Justice System

2010

Alliant University

Marsy's Law and The Criminal Justice System

2007

Law Day

Fourth Amendment school searches

2003

District Attorney Training

Prosecution of Child Pornography

2002

The Prosecution of Hate Crimes

The Prosecution of Hate Crimes

2002

Remembering 9/11

Racial tolerance in light of 9/11

2002

Remembering 9/11

The Impact of 9/11 from the eyes of Orange County's Hate Crime Prosecutor

2000

Juvenile Law Update

Prosecution of Juvenile Offenders

1998

Criminal Law for the Civil Practitioner

Criminal Law and Corporate Responsibility

1997

Anti-Defamation League Hate Crime Seminar

Moderator - Hate Crimes in Orange County

Publications

2013

Orange County Lawyer Magazine Understanding and Utilizing Marsy's Law

Languages

Farsi

English

Spanish

Activity

Top Contributor

Michael earned significant contribution points in 2013.

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