William C. Makler

I hired William Makler last year when I was arrested for DUI (my second). His glowing online reviews and enviable reputation stood out, so I called him for a free consultation. Once I spoke with him, I instantly knew he was the lawyer for me. He exudes professionalism, integrity, and intelligence. He... spoke to me with respect and absolute honesty, making no outrageous claims as a way of suckering me into a quick bargain. In addition, his hiring price was very reasonable, even generous. I would have been a fool NOT to hire him. Mr. Makler had no easy task taking me on as a client. My high BAC (nearly double the legal limit) and prior conviction were not working in my favor, and he made it clear from early on that we were swimming upstream with my case. Happily, with a little bit of luck and an even greater amount of skill, Mr. Makler managed to exploit various weaknesses in the DA's (and my arresting officer's) case, first winning me the DMV trial--(a tremendous victory in itself which saved my driver's license)--and ultimately winning me a phenomenal settlement in court in the form of a Wet Reckless. This supremely less dire conviction seemed an impossible dream, but Mr. Makler, capable, intelligent, and dedicated professional that he is, worked hard for over a year to see this outcome through. Along the way he kept me updated and in the loop, patiently answering all the nervous questions I threw at him. He never made me feel annoying, or that I wasn't being heard, which is a bit of a surprise considering how many frazzled and anxious clients he must experience day-to-day. In the end, Makler handled my case with the care and conviction that I hoped for but wasn't necessarily expecting in my DUI lawyer. His expertise in the legal field saved my skin. Two DUI convictions in 10 years would have been devastating. To have that second DUI turned into a Wet Reckless, and not lose my license to boot, was such a wonderful and unexpected gift. And I owe it all to this lawyer, who is not only a first-rate professional but also a really kind and decent human being. After making the worst decision to drink and drive, hiring him was without a doubt the best decision I could have made. For those of you who are looking for legal representation, trust me, you want this man fighting in your corner. I will always be grateful to him for his incomparable work.

I have had 3 interactions with Mr. Makler that have all been outstanding. First, I was given a misdemeanor citation for petty theft and posted an inquiry on avvo. Mr. Makler responded both quickly and thoroughly to my question which immediately relieved some of the stress of the situation. We arra...nged for a free 30 minute consultation in which he explained what would happen upon my arraignment. He was very honest and told me that with my circumstances I would be offered the TAP (Theft Awareness Program) diversion program to dismiss the charges. He did not waste my time or money. It was great to have a lawyer be honest about what was going to happen, and not take advantage of one's lack of legal knowledge and fear in an attempt to get hired, which is a common apprehension of those in my situation. Secondly, I was involved in a high speed car chase involving an argument over drugs and money culminating in a totaled vehicle and serious damages to a residence. While I was not facing charges, I encouraged the driver speak to Mr. Makler for another free consultation for what to expect. In the end, what we were certain were going to be at best misdemeanor reckless driving charges, and at worst felonious reckless endangerment, were dropped to mere infractions thanks to Mr. Makler's expertise in the courtroom, all of this despite the driver’s history of other traffic violations. I couldn't believe it. The other driver who didn't hire Mr. Makler now has a criminal record and did time in jail. Finally, I was given yet another misdemeanor petty theft citation. Knowing the very serious consequences of theft on one’s career, I immediately met with the best lawyer in Santa Barbara for another free consultation in which he was able to tell me what to expect and how he could help. After hiring him and a few weeks of fighting in court, Mr. Makler successfully reached a deal with the DA to drop the charges to an infraction, thereby preventing criminal charges. Unlike other lawyers who gave their critical opinions of my situation as a second time thief, Mr. Makler was extremely professional and nonjudgmental, and unafraid to use all avenues in order to improve my case, such as seeing a forensic psychiatrist, getting therapy, and other details specific to my situation resulting in successfully preventing a misdemeanor. In sum, Mr. Makler has tirelessly defended me and a friend of mine from criminal charges that have very serious consequences. His knowledge and connections in the courtroom are unparalleled in Santa Barbara, and his prices are completely reasonable on top of it. He also communicates very quickly and comprehensively to emails and phone calls. I cannot recommend him enough. Mr. Makler is incredibly intelligent and experienced, and it’s truly amazing to see the results he achieves in persuading the court in your defense. Thank you Mr. Makler for your representation!

If you reading this review, chances are, you or someone you care about is in big trouble and needs the best possible representation. This was my situation three months ago. I felt desperate and scared after I was arrested for DUI. I systematically interviewed all the top attorneys in town. Mr. Makler...'s amazing reviews are hard to miss. He provided me with a complimentary hour-long consultation, and just as it is written, he is responsive, professional, and intelligent. He listened carefully to me and paid close attention to my concerns. I am a nurse and I was mortified to find out that the DUI conviction I was facing could possibly ruin my career. I selected Bill Makler for his ability to negotiate, his good reputation with the district attorney, and because his trial skills are legendary. This would not be the attorney I would wish to oppose in court. He fee was not the cheapest, nor the most expensive, but very reasonable. Two things on which to never economize: your surgeon and your criminal defense attorney. You may live to regret either. The entire process was handled by phone and email. I never saw Bill but his response to my emails were nearly instantaneous. He kept me informed at every stage and answered my questions thoroughly. Most importantly, he was able to get the misdemeanor DUI charge against me resolved as an exhibition of speed infraction after just a few court appearances and some skillful negotiation. My prayers were answered; I thank my Lord Jesus for his mercy. I highly recommend Bill Makler!

I got a DUI in Santa Barbara and was completely freaked out by the whole situation... I didn't know if I should get a lawyer because it was a pretty standard case and there was nothing out of the ordinary that I knew of. I decided to talk to Bill because he offered the free consultation, but I was n...ervous that he would try to convince me that he could win even though I didn't think I had much of a chance. He was very realistic and offered me an extremely fair price and good advice. I ended up deciding to go forward without legal assistance, but he took the time to meet with me and review my police report, and he didn't make me feel bad about weighing my options. He was clear with me about exactly what he could offer me for my money, and it turned out to not be worth it in my situation. I would recommend anyone to him if they need legal advice in this matter.

I recently called to hire Mr. Makler to represent my son who is a UCSB student. He had been arrested for being under the influence of alcohol in downtown Santa Barbara. He had not been driving. Mr. Makler informed me that the arrest had been rejected by the D.A.s office. He then stayed on the phone w...ith us for about 15 minutes giving us advice. He did this for nothing. He was most helpful, and I will be putting his name in our files. I hope we will never have to use it, but if we do, I would use him in a minute. I highly recommend him to other parents whose UCSB students find themselves in trouble.