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Jay Scott Finnecy

Criminal defense Attorney at Visalia, CA

4.3   46 reviews

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About Jay

Learn Jay’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    Handling all manner of misdemeanor and felony criminal charges including jury trials. Last year I secured an acquittal at trial for a client charged with second-degree murder in a fatal DUI accident. I can help you!

    28 years, 1,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    40%
    Misdemeanor and felony DUIs and DMV Hearings.

    28 years, 1,000 cases

  3. Expungement
    10%
    Including motions for early termination of probation, motions to reduce to misdemeanor, and Penal Code section 1203.4 Petitions for Dismissal.

    28 years, 300 cases

Licensed for 27 years
State CA
Status Active
Acquired 1995
Updated 12/05/2022

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

Contact Jay

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Finnecy Law Firm
2345 W Beech Ave. #4201
Visalia, CA, 93278

Reviews

4.3 / 5.0
  46 customer reviews
Posted by Brandi | March 11, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
If you want a lawyer with knowledge, pick Jay
If you're going to need representation in court, you need someone with knowledge and who knows the law in and out. I asked a question on here regarding a very specific penal code and motion that I received in court and out of several lawyers, he is THE ONLY one who got it right and I learned something in the process.
Posted by Steve | May 15, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
I got great advise !
Mr Finnecy was very quick & complete with the info I needed. I appreciated the straight forward talk I got from this attorney.
Posted by Chantel | January 4, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent Attorney
Excellent Attorney answered right away, he gave excellent advice that help me.
Posted by anonymous | December 4, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Thank you
Thank you Jay for taking the time to respond. I will be calling you to see what I need to do to resolve this issue. Thanks again bro... I know you didn’t have to respond. Look for a message from me
Posted by anonymous | September 3, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very helpful and knowledgeable
i have not personally hired Mr Finnecy, being that he is too far from where I currently reside, but I have asked many questions here on this site. Mr Finnecy has been one of the most knowledgeable attorneys to reply to all of my questions and has been a great help. Thank you.
Posted by anonymous | July 21, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Thank you!
Mr. Finnesy took the time to respond to my question and even messaged with me about my case. None of these lawyers are required to answer anything. Much appreciated. ;)
Response from Jay Finnecy August 8, 2017
Thank you. My last name is Finnecy.
Posted by anonymous | January 29, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Awesome
Even though he could not help me with my specific issue, as he is in a different county, he was very helpful and respectful and pointed me in the right direction. I am very grateful.
Posted by anonymous | January 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Second amendment back
Got the job done, got my right to bear arms back by successfully reducing my exponged felony!
Posted by Nathan | January 23, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Jay goes the distance!
I find Jay as a very respectable attorney for his quick replies and extension of expertise!
Posted by anonymous | October 15, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Solid advise
Exchanged a few email (via Avvo) with Jay re. my options and was advised in good detail how to handle the matter on my own and save the money. Who would have thought attorneys actually do that? Thanks Jay!
Posted by Cyndi | October 9, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Exceptional help and explanations!
I feel this lawyer went above and beyond and really helped me get a grasp on the situation.
Posted by Kevin | March 16, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Misdemeanor case
Jay S. Finnecy and I connected on Avvo. I chose to hire Jay because he was transparent from the beginning and I did not feel pressured or taken advantage of. Jay helped me reached a favorable resolution to my charges.
Response from Jay Finnecy March 17, 2016
Thank you, Kevin. I assume by "transparent" you mean honest and straightforward. "Case Dismissed" is definitely a favorable outcome! Thank you for placing your trust in my representation. I am very pleased with the outcome as well and enjoyed working with you.
Posted by Jerry | March 15, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Fast and Professional
Got a call was in the office his team was very professional; his associate Tom laid out a strategy of how it was going to go; I had numerous calls and emails and text about the case with both Jay & Tom. They were very easy to contact; the case was rejected by the DA based on their initial strategy. I think this saved my job of 20 years. In my opinion they saved my life. Things could have gone real bad if not for them. I would most strongly recommend Jay and his team.
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Posted by Jon Whittington | March 13, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Attorney you are looking for.
Mr. Finnecy is an outstanding attorney who genuinely cares for his clients. He has gone above and beyond for me and my legal needs. I would highly recommend him to anyone needed an attorney in his area of expertise.
Posted by anonymous | January 8, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Straightforward, Honest and Concise
I don't always like the answers I get to legal questions, but I do need accuracy and honesty as well as an attorney's unique perspective. Atty. Jay Finnecy delivered. He can be relied on to be effective with answers and efficient with time. If my experience is any indicator, directness, candor and reliability with follow-up are staples with this experienced attorney.
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Posted by Eddie | August 4, 2015
Thorough. Assuring. Affordable.
If I were asked how to describe Mr. Finnecy in 3 words those would come to mind. When you think of a traffic attorney those are the qualities you would want in an attorney and I was very blessed to find them. I knew I needed an attorney familiar with the area and the courts. When I first called Mr. Finnecy's office his assistant gave a rough estimate that I was a little taken back by but not less than 15 minutes later I get a text from Mr. Finnecy's direct line asking me to email the citations in question. In the end he gave a fee quote to take on 2 cases that if he won litigation would've been half of the possible fines I was facing. Mr. Finnecy handled everything in a very professional matter with myself only providing the needed evidence and communicating with Mr. Finnecy via email or text whenever possible. His response time is quite understandable given he is extremely busy but he never failed to respond when I needed to hear back most. Result of cases was extremely positive, getting one case dismissed and one reduced significantly I couldn't be happier. I hope I don't have to use Mr. Finnecy's services any time soon; but will be recommending him to everyone in North County! (Thumbs way up!) Eddie S. San Diego, CA
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Posted by Marty Judnich | June 3, 2015
Excellent representation
Jay is an extremely experienced DUI defense attorney. He brings the knowledge and skill to every client that they deserve. Knowing both sides of the law as a former prosecutor is extremely important, and is a reason he is worth the money to retain.
Posted by Christina | March 26, 2015
BEST LAWYER EVER!!!
Best criminal defense lawyer ever! I got a DUI and they helped me settle my case quickly and efficiently. They answered all my questions and make it stress free....THANKS AGAIN JAY FINNECY !!!
Posted by Kate.armstrong | December 16, 2014
I highly recommend Jay Finnecy!
After speaking with two Attorneys prior to speaking with Jay Finnecy, I decided to hire Jay to handle my case. It was the best decision I made. Jay was very attentive and active in his response, answering all of my questions in a very timely manner. I found Jay to be very knowledgeable about the legalities of my particular case. Jay got me very fast results for a fraction of the cost of the other two Attorneys I interviewed. I highly recommend Jay. I'm extremely pleased with his professionalism and his prompt replies in addition to his ability to get great results for a very reasonable fee.
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Posted by anonymous | December 9, 2014
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Mr. Finnecy helped me to get information if I had any problems with the Law.
I contacted to mr. Finnecy to get information about my person in any kind of criminal/police records. Mr. Finnecy done a perfect job for me. He looked up the info for me. He also explained the detailes that I wanted to know. I very appreciate his quick replies. Mr. Finnecy, thank you for your help!
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Cost

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.9 (Excellent)

Work Experience

  • Attorney at Law
  • Law Offices of Jay S. Finnecy
  • 2002 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor
  • Mira Costa Community College
  • 2003 - 2005
  • Deputy District Attorney III
  • San Diego County District Attorney's Office
  • 1995 - 2002

Education

  • Annual Criminal Defense Seminar: California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • N/A
  • 2015
  • Cross Examination Seminar: CPDA
  • N/A
  • 2015
  • University of Pittsburgh School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1995
  • University of California - Santa Barbara
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1990
View all education

Legal Cases

  • DUI with prior (Second Offense)
  • No jail time/No community service
  • Felony DUI with Serious Injury and Felony Child Endangerment
  • Probation
  • PC459/Commercial Burglary
  • Probation/No jail

Associations

  • San Diego County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Bar Association of North San Diego County
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • California Public Defenders Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • State Bar of California
  • Member
  • 1995 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - 2011
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top Contributor
  • AVVO
  • 2016
  • Client's Choice Award--Criminal Defense
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Top Contributor--Criminal Defense
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Appellate Moot Court Judge
  • University of San Diego
  • 2013
  • Moot Court Judge
  • University of San Diego
  • 2011
  • Volunteer Attorney Award
  • North County Bar Association
  • 2006
  • Volunteer Attorney Award
  • North County Bar Association
  • 2005
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Networking at the Crowne Plaza
  • DUI and Criminal Defense Basics
  • 2015
  • North County Criminal Law CLE
  • Criminal Defense Practice in North San Diego County
  • 2012

Attorney endorsements

Received (172)
Given (83)
Endorse Jay
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 16
Relationship: Other
"Mr. Finnecy is brilliant yet immensely practical. These qualities are rare but necessary to practice criminal law. Mr. Finnecy is the real deal. If you live in or near Vista, consider calling him to help with your criminal matter."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Smart, experienced, practical, level-headed, fearless, impeccable judgment. Definitely on my short-list of people to call if I or a loved one need serious help. I can't praise any higher than that."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Finnecy is always quick to respond. Often a single sentence is enough."
Unknown Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse and recommend Mr. Finnecy."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse and highly recommend this lawyer based on their thorough and knowledgeable answers on Avvo."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 17
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. He clearly knows his stuff. If he seems salty or blunt it is because he has been doing it long enough to tell you the truth. I do not know him personally but I can tell by his responses that he knows what he is doing. He has my endorsement, which does not happen frequently."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jay is an experienced and intelligent lawyer that knows how to fight for his clients. He does not pull any punches and goes for the win. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Finnecy is an excellent advocate for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend him to a client in need. He is also an asset to the Avvo Community, providing invaluable resources to those seeking help."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Finnecy is consistently insightful and knowledgeable in his contributions to this forum. I endorse him."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An excellent lawyer who treats his clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism. He is an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend him for future services."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is an incredible advocate on behalf of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Finnecy's answers on Avvo indicate he is a highly knowledgeable DWI attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Mr. Finnecy, he is truthful, to the point and answers poster's questions without sugar coating or over promising.An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I confidently endorse this lawyer’s work and standing in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jay is an excellent attorney committed to providing the highest quality representation to clients. I endorse this attorney without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse this lawyer. Mr. Jay is a highly skilled and well-known attorney in the legal community for his outstanding professionalism and work ethic. I highly recommend this lawyer to anyone who needs quality legal representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Finnecy is a top-notch defense attorney. A zealous advocate for his clients and highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Mr. Jay Scott is a well-regarded and driven attorney who has provided exceptional legal representation to numerous clients throughout the U.S. With his extensive knowledge, broad experience and impressive professional skills, he is bound to invest his time and energy into achieving the best outcome for each case, regardless of its level of complexity."
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