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William Carlos Makler

Open for Business
Virtual Consultation
also known as Bill Makler
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Avvo Rating10
  • Santa Barbara, CA
  • Licensed for 24 years
  • Free consultation
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About William

Mr. Makler is the only Santa Barbara lawyer that has been awarded the top rating (A-V) by Martindale-Hubbell (since 2013), 10 out of 10 by avvo (since 2010) and who is also ranked in the Nation's Top 1% by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. He has also been determined to be in the Top 100 by the National Trial Lawyers. He is a former felony deputy public defender for both Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara Counties.  He also has taught Evidence as a member of the regular faculty of the Santa Barbara College of Law. He has gained more than 20 years of experience working in the state and federal criminal justice systems; including law enforcement. His considerable experience and skillful lawyering brings his clients very satisfying results at a reasonable cost. In addition to his work as a criminal defense, Mr. Makler has brought class action lawsuits as lead class counsel against police agencies resulting in system-wide changes that benefit individuals who were arrested but whose cases were never prosecuted. He remains active in various trade organizations, including an association of Santa Barbara criminal defenders he helped found: Santa Barbara Defenders. Mr. Makler is regularly recommended for hire by other criminal defense lawyers, judges and members of law enforcement.

Practice areas

Criminal defenseDUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 70%

    Mr. Makler has achieved mastery in every aspect of DUI defense, including pretrial motions, plea negotiations, dmv hearings, trials, writs and appeals. Judges, lawyers and police officer regularly refer DUI cases to Mr. Makler.

    25 years, 3,000 cases

  2. Criminal defense: 30%

    Mr. Makler handles all criminal matters; from homicide to traffic tickets and everything in between. His 30+ years of criminal justice experience, trial skill and client centered approach have resulted in him being the best reviewed lawyer in SB.

    25 years, 3,000 cases

Languages spoken

Spanish, English

Photos and videos

174757 1392477795

Contact

140 East Figueroa Street
address map

Law Offices of William C. Makler, P.C.

140 East Figueroa Street
Santa Barbara, CA, 93101

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
CAActive199610/28/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers375
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell®2019
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2018
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2017
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2016
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2015
Top One PercentNational Association of Distinguished Counsel2015
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2014
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2013
Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2012
Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2011
Peer Review RatingMartindale-Hubbell2010
Peer Review RatingMartindale-Hubbell2009
Honors in Trial AdvocacyMcGeorge School of Law1996
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
AttorneyLaw Offices of William C. Makler2004 - Present
Faculty MemberSanta Barbara College of Law2006 - 2008
Deputy Public DefenderSanta Barbara County Public Defender's Office2001 - 2003
Deputy Public DefenderSanta Cruz Public Defender1997 - 2000
Staff AttorneyFederal Public Defender1996 - 1997
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Santa Barbara DefendersPresident2018 - Present
Better Business BureauAdmitted2006 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember2001 - Present
California DUI Lawyers AssociationMember2001 - Present
Santa Barbara County Bar AssociationMember2000 - Present
California Public Defenders AssociationMember1996 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaMember1996 - Present
California Attorneys for Criminal JusticeMemberN/A
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2001 - 2007
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Santa Barbara Lawyer (blog)So What's the Big Deal?2009
Santa Barbara Lawyer (Blog)Does Parental Notification Violate Privacy?2008
Santa Barbara Lawyer (Blog)Pleading Not Guilty2008
Santa Barbara Lawyer (Blog)NO Canada!2007
Santa Barbara Lawyer BlogCriminal Convictions Reduce Longterm Earnings.2007
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
McGeorge School of Law, University of the PacificJD - Juris Doctor1996
University of California - San DiegoBA - Bachelor of Arts1991
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
The BasicsCriminal Law Practice Management2017
DUI TrainingDUI2017
Defending DUIDUI2016
DUI DefenseDUI2015
DUIDUI2014
Know Your RightsConstitutional Rights2012
Know Your RightsConstitutional Rights2009
Know Your RightsConstitutional Rights2008
CPDA Basic Trial Skills InstituteTrial Skills2008
Crash Course in Legal RightsLegal Rights2007
DUI DefenseDUI Defense2007
Bench & Bar ConferenceDUI Defense Practice tips2005
DUI DefenseDUI Defense2005
Scientific Evidence in DUI CasesScientific Evidence in DUI Cases2005
Know Your Rights!Know Your Rights2004
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
People vs. Stephen K.Not guilty
People vs. Carol R.License reinstated.
People vs. Joshua T.Public Intox./Driver’s license reinstated
People v. MurilloNot guilty.
Schmidt v. CHPCHP ordered to issue detention certificates and to update records.
People vs. Ari P.Case dismissed.
City of Santa Barbara vs. Eastside/WestsideNo gang injunction ordered.
People v. Lisa L.DUI charges dismissed.
People v. Jerry W.All charges dismissed.
David P.Felony Strike Stricken
People v. Jose C.Case Dismissed
People v. Robert G.Case Dismissed
People v. Mario C.Not guilty and deadlocked
People v. Mark H.Case Dismissed
People v. Shawn C.Not guilty of assualt on peace officer.
Alberto C.Case Dismissed
People v. Vernon F.Not guilty on all counts
People v. Dragisa L.Child Abduction Charges Dismissed
People v. Bruce S.Not guilty on all counts
Alfredo V.Hung Jury; case dismissed
People v. Patrick S.Case Dismissed/Suspension Set Aside

Reviews

(174)
5 Star
98%
4 Star
2%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review William Makler

Awesome Lawyer and speedy results

Posted by

I’m from LA and took a weekend trip to Santa Barbara for my birthday. At the end of the first night I found myself at a local bar and got arrested for public intoxication when the bar closed. It was a huge bummer and embarrassing. I had to go to the Santa Barbara sheriffs station for 12 hours and got a notice to appear 2 months later. I immediately googled Santa Barbara lawyers and I thankfully found William Makler. I called him on a Sunday and thank God he picked up and gave me a free consultation. I ended up hiring him Monday morning and by later that same day he spoke with the DA and got my case rejected/thrown out. I would highly recommend William. Not only did he communicate well with me, he was so proactive and got me the results that I was hoping for. Thanks again
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
William Makler's response: Thanks, Clifford! I appreciate it very much.

Really kind guy

Posted by

Didn't hire Bill Mackler but he gave me some really great advice on a 15 min consult and was kind and genuine.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney
William Makler's response: Thanks, Stephanie. I really appreciate it.

Truly Committed

Posted by

I have to say that William Makler's commitment to his clients is truly awe-inspiring. If you ever need a lawyer I can't say how happy you will be hiring Mr. Makler. At the moment I hired him as an attorney he made himself and his team available to me whether it was to answer questions or inform me of any updates regarding the case. Whenever I had a question he would answer within hours if not minutes. And in case you'd think that fires and a pandemic would affect his level of commitment and service to his clients, you would be sorely mistaken. At no point will you feel lost with regards to the circumstances surrounding your case, he makes himself available every step of the way. With regards to the outcome, I'm more than satisfied. He explained everything so that I had a good idea of what I was facing and prepared me every step of the way. He inspires as much hope as he does confidence. He is a true professional and you should know that you are gonna be in good hands as soon as you hire him to be your lawyer. I hope no one finds themselves in the circumstance where they might need an attorney, but if you ever do, just remember the words, 'Call Bill!'
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
William Makler's response: Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful comments!

Great Defense Attorney

Posted by

I was charged with a misdemeanor while I was a college student. It had me really freaked out. Bill was really understanding and insightful. He also explained to me, very concisely might I add, what steps I needed to take. He managed to help me get my case rejected by the DA - which was a very big relief for me. I couldn't have asked for a more professional or friendly lawyer to be quite honest. I'm extremely happy that I hired Bill.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
William Makler's response: Thank you for the review!

A great lawyer and a wonderful person

Posted by

My history with Bill dated back to 2012, when I was charged with a misdemeanor as an undergrad at UCSB. Because of the nature of my case, I chose to enter a plea bargain. Bill helped me with the entire process. He was patient with my questions and he advised me as needed to make the best decision. My favorite quality about him was the promptness in his responses. While I cannot reverse the mistake that I made 8 years ago, I have been actively trying to move forward. Recently in 2020, I consulted him again regarding a last-minute question about a court request that I self-filed years ago--I was stressed because of employment implications and the need to disclose my past criminal record. Not only did Bill reply within an hour on a weekday evening, but he also offered to verify my records, scan me the old court records, and counsel me on how to move forward with my employment. He did this all based on our past professional relationship, even when I had not spoken to him in over 6 years. I am grateful for Bill's help and support. I will recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone in the community. He exudes a human-quality that separates him from just being another professional.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
William Makler's response: Thank you, Peter!

The best lawyer Santa Barbara has to offer. Period. Will go above and beyond. A++ amazing defense.

Posted by

Mr. Mackler is one of a kind and the best you will find so stop your search and trust me, just give his office a call. You’re in good hands, and will be so happy you did once you see the magic he can pull. Talented, articulate, knowledgeable, just a few of the words that I would use to describe Mr. Mackler. How he handles every case like it his own, and like he’s facing legal trouble, is truly unseen in the legal industry, and really something to be recognized. In an industry full of manipulation tactics to gain your business and lawyers who never give you the full story but instead try to fill you with a false super optimistic outlook, in the pursuit of taking your money. Me. Mackler does the exact opposite, he is personable and will consult with you first and get the facts that you provide him, then he’ll first review your case and paperwork, and finally give you a precise outlook on exactly what defense strategy he can use and realistically what he truly believes will he the result of his work. Now, with that said, he always outdoes himself, but it truly speaks to his character and trustworthiness. To be able to do such amazing work and provide you with an unbeatable rate, I see why he’s top rated in Santa Barbara and near by counties, he is simply and undoubtedly the best. I’m not one to go out of my way to write reviews, but I simply think it would be an injustice to the community he serves and those in need to simply say thank you and move on. Please take my advice, and thank me later. Mr. Mackler is one of a kind, and the lawyer you not only should, but need to hire if you want to without a doubt know you have great representation and be able to sleep at night. Good luck!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
William Makler's response: Thanks, Darien!

Out of Town DUI

Posted by

I was on vacation in Santa Barbara, and received a DUI on a Friday night, releasing me on Saturday. I knew I needed help immediately, and was extremely stressed about it. Bill met with me over the weekend, and got me up to speed on next steps before I headed home. He was in regular contact, updating me on the situation as we proceeded, and I really feel like he fought for my best interest in case. He also found the support I needed in my home town, and negotiated terms that made it possible so I would not need to return to SB and accrue additional costs. He handled everything. He's kind, easy to talk to, well known in the courts, and takes a lot of the fear out of the situation. Highly recommended.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
William Makler's response: Thanks for your review. I truly appreciate it. : ) We remain at your service. Bill

Insightful, sharp and kind attorney

Posted by

Mr. Makler provided excellent legal counsel following an unfortunate mistake that I made during my college years, resulting in an arrest. It was my first and only run-in with the law, aside from a couple traffic tickets, so it goes without saying that I was very concerned about what would happen next. This changed once I hired Mr. Makler, whose nuanced expertise in the area of concern immediately put me at ease. He handled my case swiftly and confidently. In a short matter of time, my case was rejected by the DA's office and removed from my record altogether. Years later, when I was concerned about the possibility of the arrest somehow showing up in background searches, Mr. Makler generously took the time to consult with me over the phone (on a national holiday no less!) I cannot thank Mr. Makler enough for his time and dedication. I recommend him highly to anyone looking for a sharp, honest and personable attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

He cares about me and what he does. Not the money!

Posted by

My dear friends please listen to my advice from heart. I am a current client and a friend for more than one year to Bill(William's Nick Name). I promise you I am not paid or bribed or received any sort of compensation for writing this review for Bill. I have made the most serious mistake in my life. I was first ripped off by a shitty and unethical lawyer(he charged me $30k and did nothing). Before I met Bill, I was literally helpless and scared. As for my case, Bill showed me his respect, patience, and integrity for me. He charged me a reasonable price which is 1/10 of what I was charged before. He provided me honest advice every time I am not sure about something, like he listed all the pros and cons for me to choose, instead of merely lead me to choose an option that he finds the most convenient to work with. He cares about his clients, and he makes sure I am not threatened by the other parties nor my former crappy lawyer. Might be to your surprise. I have not met Bill in person before at all because I am overseas all the time while I am dealing with the case. However, Bill was able to communicate well with me and his honesty wins my trust. I would highly recommend this lawyer, and I believe he is one of the not so many good lawyers out there.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

An expert attorney achieves the desired results

Posted by

I was shocked when I learned that I was the subject of a criminal investigation. My first thought was "who could I hire to look after my interests." My immediate answer was Bill Makler whom I had known for several years in a professional support capacity. In every case on which I had worked for him, I had been impressed by the results that Bill had obtained, however, I was even more impressed by the effort Bill made on behalf of his clients. So Bill took my case and succeeded in taking the steps that I wanted to take, but could not have taken on my own. Bill really cared about the risks to which I was exposed and he always carefully selected the best way to avoid those outcomes relying on his expertise and experience. The results were what was needed and I would hire Bill again in a heartbeat.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(52)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

George Gigarjian, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 5, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Bill for over twenty years. He is a knowledgeable, experienced, skilled attorney. I highly recommend Bill for any DUI or other criminal matter.

Paul Burglin, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 27, 2009
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I am have referred several clients to Bill Makler for criminal matters in Santa Barbara. It is a unique county that requires knowledge of the local rules and politics, and Bill is a respected and reliable lawyer there.

Cristi Michelon Vasquez, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 4, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Having known Bill for nearly two decades, I can say that Bill is an honor to our profession. Bill is smart, aggressive when necessary and strategic in his handling of cases. I have referred a number of cases to Bill over the years and I can say that my clients have never been disappointed. Not only has Bill achieved great results for my clients, he has worked, hard, charged a fair fee and considered the long range consequences to the client. This is whole picture approach is imperative to a complete and effective representation. Hire Bill or recommend Bill. You won't be disappointed.

Agavni Tulekyan

I endorse this lawyer.

Meghan Behrens

I've known Bill for over ten years. He's professional and very knowledgeable in all areas of criminal defense.

George Gigarjian, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 5, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Bill for over twenty years. He is a knowledgeable, experienced, skilled attorney. I highly recommend Bill for any DUI or other criminal matter.

Mark Clay, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 22, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I highly endorse Mr. Makler. Very experienced and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first.

Jonathan Lacour

One of the absolute best. Exceptional attention to detail, service next to none. I endorse this lawyer.

Laura Hoskins, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 4, 2015
Relationship: Other

Mr. Makler has an impressive background, outstanding client reviews and is a great asset to this forum. I endorse this lawyer.

Timothy Brown, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 3, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Lilian Demonteverde-Hoats, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 1, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent attorney and well respected in the field.

Socrates de La Cruz, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 30, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. A great advocate and fights for clients in court.

Vonnie Dones, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 29, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community.

Patrick Kang, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 11, 2015
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Mark Girdner, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 23, 2015
Relationship: Other

I endorse William. Hard working and aggressive attorney who is dedicated to the success of his clients. Respected by his colleagues within the legal community.

Judd Nemiro

Such a remarkable attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

Dmitry Gorin, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 7, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse attorney William Makler. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of the law based on his outstanding legal answers on Avvo. He is skilled, experienced, and dedicated to his profession. A respected member within the legal community.

Douglas Borthwick, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 12, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Dmitriy Shakhnevich, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 28, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Richard Geller

I endorse William. Highly respected in the legal community with a strong reputation for client advocacy and dedication.

Giacomo Behar, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 3, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant attorney, highly respected in the legal community.

Brandon Roseman, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 2, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

William takes time to assist the general public in answering questions and offers sage advice.

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