Michael Joseph Cefali

PRO

Michael Joseph Cefali

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 9 years

Personal injury Lawyer at San Juan Capistrano, CA
Practice Areas: Personal Injury, Car Accidents, Slip and Fall Accident ... +2 more

27130 Paseo Espada, Bldg B Suite # 521, San Juan Capistrano, CA

Free Consultation

About Michael

Biography

Finding the right attorney to represent you is a choice not to be taken lightly. We offer free consultations so you can get to know our character.

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Personal Injury 50%

50%
Animal and Dog Bites 15%

8 years

15%
Car Accident 15%

8 years

15%
Slip and Fall Accident 15%

8 years

15%
Insurance 5%

8 years

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 90 minutes

Contingency

33%-45%


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020
...
+ 2

Licenses

Licensed in California for 9 years

State: California

Acquired: 2017

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Cefali & Cefali

27130 Paseo Espada, Bldg B Suite # 521, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92675

callcefali.com/about

Michael Joseph Cefali's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

71 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 12 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Julia | December 07, 2020 | Hired Attorney

They treat you like family

This dynamic duo of attorneys were so easy to work with. They kept me informed every step of the way and used simple e-sign documents and technology so I could quickly respond to paperwork, stay current, move quickly through my legal process. They worked diligently and respectfully to complete my cas...e with my best interest in mind, even when I was uncertain what to do, they patiently walked me through all possible steps and outcomes so I could be as informed as possible. Very responsive, always positive and hard workers. Thanks Cefali & Cefali!

Posted by Robert | June 06, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury

Excellent, caring service!

I had been injured in a car accident, and, as it was my first accident, I was very unsure as to what I should do... I got in contact with Mike Cefali, and he kindly, and patiently guided me through the process. He started me off by recommending a chiropractic service, with the express goal of trying... to help me feel "100 percent." The way he explained every step after that was so easy to understand, and it instantly assuaged all of my fears going into the case. He was patient with me, and all through the case he was making sure that I was feeling better, physically and even emotionally. In terms of success in representing my case, he slam-dunked it. As soon as I felt good and ready to proceed, he put in the offer, giving me an estimate of what I could expect in my own pocket, and completely over-delivered! Thank you for your help and hard work, Mike!

Posted by anonymous | February 07, 2020 | Landlord & Tenant

Gives advice

I had a security deposit complaint and was recommended to call Mike. He answered any questions I had and even did some quick research to find what I had to do. Gave me links to the documents and instructions on what to do. First time I’ll be going to court for small claims, was glad to get advice fro...m someone who knows what to do.

Posted by Brian | January 24, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury

Simply put: The most Professional and Compassionate lawyer

Michael Cafali was our attorney for a personal injury case. From the start, Michael showed extreme professionalism along with expressing a great deal of care when working with me. He always took the time to outline each phase of my case and made sure I understood the process. Mr Cefali was always ve...ry punctual when returning calls or any other means of correspondence. If you are looking for a lawyer with a level of integrity that cannot be measured, this is your guy. Thanks Michael.

Posted by Thomas | December 03, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury

Great Lawyer, Great Results

I hired Michael Cefali after being involved in a HOV lane accident where my vehicle was launched airborne at 60+ MPH into the freeway center divider. Michael arranged for all of my medical treatment. During my year and half recovery he was always there for any questions I had and there were many. I w...as pleasantly surprised he was always available by phone and on the rare occasion when I left a message, my call was promptly returned. Absolutely no run around and he really took time to thoughtfully answer my questions. Early on in my recovery process I realized how concerned he was about my physical recovery. After a year and a half I was finally released by my final medical provider, and then Michael really went to work on my case. At this point I was concerned that this was going to turn into a long drawn out legal process. He explained the next steps, the demand letter he was going to send to the other party’s insurance carrier, what their probable response would be, and the strategy of our counter offer. I was still gathering additional lost wages information when I received a call from Mr. Cefali, to tell me there was no need to compile any further information. The other parties insurance carrier agreed to settle for the full value of their insured’s policy. I was amazed at this result. I asked Michael for a copy of his demand letter which he promptly provided. Michael’s demand letter was nothing short of brilliant. It was thorough and clearly explained my injuries and treatment and what he expected from them. They had absolutely no way out. One day later I signed the acceptance of settlement paperwork. Then Michael negotiated final medical bills with every one of many medical providers and paid each of them to full satisfaction. He Fed Exed me the net proceeds on a three day weekend. I know in my heart if I tried to recover directly from the other parties insurance company I would have received pennies on the dollar if I would have won at all. Michael was a great investment and a true champion for my cause. He deserves the highest recommendation. While you hope you only have to go through something like this once in a lifetime, I would call Michael Cefali for absolutely any personal injury need. He will be a permanent addition to my roll-a-dex for anyone I know who needs a personal injury attorney.

See All Client Reviews

Michael Joseph Cefali's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Carolyn Li-Jun Tan headshot
Carolyn Tan

Personal injury lawyer | Jul 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mike is an excellent attorney. He is creative in his approach to cases and really cares about each one of his clients."

Ali Hassanzadeh headshot
Ali Hassanzadeh

Intellectual property lawyer | Jul 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is a top-notch attorney with the highest level of knowledge and professionalism. He is committed to his clients and I'm always impressed with the way he represents his clients. I fully endorse Michael and recommend his legal services."

Christine J. Harrah headshot
Christine Harrah

Personal injury lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Co-worker

"I have had the opportunity to know Mike both as a law student and as an attorney. Mike’s passion for his work is unparalleled. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and is not afraid to back down from a fight on his client’s behalf."

Ryan W. Cooper headshot
Ryan Cooper

Personal injury lawyer | Feb 22

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is an outstanding attorney and person. He is creative and hard working, and I would want him in my corner. I highly recommend Michael to anyone looking for an attorney. He will go the extra mile for you."

Rana N. Abuershaid headshot
Rana Abuershaid

Unknown lawyer | Dec 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is an excellent attorney who will do everything possible to make sure his clients walk away with the best results. He is highly experienced, skilled and fights for the maximum possible recovery."

Ashley Morgan Watkins headshot
Ashley Watkins

Personal injury lawyer | May 02

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Michael is a true advocate for his clients. He has a no nonsense approach for dealing with the opposition, and will not accept anything short of the best result for his client. It is refreshing to see an attorney who is passionate about each and every client he has the opportunity of helping."

Rahul Aggarwal headshot
Rahul Aggarwal

Unknown lawyer | Mar 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer as their impressive legal analysis and thoughtful responses display the thorough approach necessary to achieve results for clients"

Ian Stuart McTaggart headshot
Ian McTaggart

Car accident lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"When I first met Michael I instantly thought that Micheal would be the type of attorney that would not only fight for his clients but also treat them like family. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I was correct. Michael will move heaven and earth for his clients. Michael is a force in the legal community and is an inspiration."

Gabriel Joseph Vigh headshot
Gabriel Vigh

Personal injury lawyer | Feb 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael is truly a one of a kind attorney. He handles every case with an unrivaled passion and cares for his clients like they are family. I would give Michael my highest recommendation."

Elliot Tucker Landreth headshot
Elliot Landreth

Personal injury lawyer | Feb 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Solid lawyer. Ethical. Hard working. Great communicator."

Olivia L. Saladino headshot
Olivia Saladino

Unknown lawyer | Jan 23

Relationship: Co-worker

"Michael's passion for helping others is truly reflected in his work. He is a fierce advocate who works tirelessly to achieve maximum recovery for his clients. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Kevin Crockett headshot
Kevin Crockett

Personal injury lawyer | Jan 21

Relationship: Co-worker

"I highly endorse this lawyer. Michael is incredibly bright and has a strong desire to do everything he can for his clients. He'll fight for you until the end!"

Clark Hansen Fielding headshot
Clark Fielding

Personal injury lawyer | Jan 10

Relationship: Co-worker

"Mr. Cefali is a rising star. He is persistent and diligent and clever; he brings a multidisciplinary approach from his diverse academic and life experience. Mr. Cefali has a pleasant temperament and is a good person. I would seek legal counsel from Mr. Cefali."

Megan Jeanette Lane headshot
Megan Lane

Personal injury lawyer | Jan 09

Relationship: Co-worker

"It has been a pleasure working with Michael. His compassion for his clients, and bold tactical handling of his cases is impressive. I would trust him with any friend or family members case."

Courtney Lauren Cummings headshot
Courtney Cummings

Unknown lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Family member

"Yes, Michael Cefali is my fiancé…. But I know better than anyone what an excellent advocate he is. I am also in the best position to know how much he truly cares for his clients, as he never stops thinking about those who rely on him for his work. Michael will not just put in the ordinary 9-5. He will take the time to do what it is right, no matter what. He will stand by his clients’ side until they receive the outcome they deserve. He is patient, kind & wants what is best for each and every one of his clients. He is the obvious choice for your legal needs."

Kelton James Johnson headshot
Kelton Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Michael fights hard to make sure that justice has a voice. He always puts the time in to do a job right. His personalized and result-oriented approach makes it clear that he genuinely cares about the people he represents."

Paul William Hecht headshot
Paul Hecht

Personal injury lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Michael is a great attorney and an even better man. I've known Michael for over 5 years, and he is of the highest professional and personal integrity. I would not hesitate to hire Michael as my personal attorney, nor would any other lawyer that I know; he is truly a lawyer's lawyer."

Phillip Benson Younglove headshot
Phillip Younglove

Personal injury lawyer | Jan 03

Relationship: Co-worker

"Mike is knowledgeable, crafty, and gets great results for his clients. I fully endorse him."

View All Endorsements
Carolyn Li-Jun Tan headshot
Carolyn Tan

Personal injury lawyer

Samuel Mirejovsky headshot
Samuel Mirejovsky

Personal injury lawyer

Ryan W. Cooper headshot
Ryan Cooper

Motorcycle accident lawyer

Rana N. Abuershaid headshot
Rana Abuershaid

Personal injury lawyer

Christine J. Harrah headshot
Christine Harrah

Personal injury lawyer

Albert Abkarian headshot
Albert Abkarian

Personal injury lawyer

Michael Harutunian headshot
Michael Harutunian

Copyright application lawyer

Ian Stuart McTaggart headshot
Ian McTaggart

Personal injury lawyer

Jimmy Thinh Nguyen headshot
Jimmy Nguyen

Litigation lawyer

Gabriel Joseph Vigh headshot
Gabriel Vigh

Personal injury lawyer

Ali Hassanzadeh headshot
Ali Hassanzadeh

Copyright infringement lawyer

Julia Thome headshot
Julia Thome

Immigration lawyer

Ashley Morgan Watkins headshot
Ashley Watkins

Brain injury lawyer

Olivia L. Saladino headshot
Olivia Saladino

Personal injury lawyer

Kevin Crockett headshot
Kevin Crockett

Car accident lawyer

Edward C. Chen headshot
Edward Chen

Litigation lawyer

Elliot Tucker Landreth headshot
Elliot Landreth

Intellectual property lawyer

Mathew Kidman Higbee headshot
Mathew Higbee

Criminal defense lawyer

Megan Jeanette Lane headshot
Megan Lane

Personal injury lawyer

Clark Hansen Fielding headshot
Clark Fielding

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2024

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2023

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2020

Litigator of the Year 2020, American Institute of Trial Lawyers

2020

Rated Attorney, Lead Counsel

2020

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2020

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2019

Client's Choice, Avvo

2019

Selected Member, Lawyers of Distinction

2018

Million Dollar Advocate, Million Dollar Advocates Forum

2018

Client's Choice, Avvo

2016

CALI Award for Constitutional Law, CALI Award

Work Experience

2019 - Present

Partner, Cefali & Cefali

2017 - 2019

Attorney, Bergener Mirejovsky, APC

2017 - 2017

Attorney, Higbee & Associates

Associations

2019 - Present

Consumer Attorneys of California

Member

2019 - Present

Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles

Member

2018 - Present

Million Dollar Advocates Forum

Member

2018 - Present

American Association for Justice

Member

2017 - Present

Orange County Bar Association

Member

2017 - Present

State Bar of California

Member

2017 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2014 - Present

Mission Preservation Society

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Motorcycle Accident

$1 million

Rear-end Accident

$250,000.00

Lane Change Accident

$250,000.00

Red Light Accident

$200,000.00

Red Light Accident

$215,000.00

Open Policy

$50,000.00

Car Accident

$360,000.00

See More Legal Cases

Education

2016

Chapman University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2012

California State University, California Maritime Academy

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2019

So What's Your Problem? Personal Injury Law

Publications

2019

Call Cefali Blog Pain and Suffering For Dogs

2019

2019

2019

2019

2019

2019

2019

2019

Cefali & Cefali Blog Whiplash Is a Serious Injury!

2019

Cefali & Cefali Blog Please Don't Hate Us!

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
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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