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Kari M. Underwood
About Kari
Biography
I have several years' traffic law experience, having helped manage a growing traffic law firm for two years before launching a separate criminal defense practice with my husband, also an attorney.
Our office specializes in traffic related criminal defense--primarily commercial and personal Traffic Tickets, and DUI's.
I also offer Estate Planning, primarily in the area of Wills and Trusts. I have experience in Special Needs Trusts, as well.
My skills lie in the details, and I am proud of the fact that my cases are worked consistently, carefully, and agressively. I continually educate myself on the process, maintain an awareness of changes in law and procedure, and have been fortunate to associate with other highly experienced and skilled attorneys in my area of law. When you hire me to handle your case, you can rest assured that the details that make your situation unique are being catalogued and utilized in your defense!
Personal About Me:
I have the unique distinction of having passed the California Bar Exam twice, fifteen years apart. Why would I take the most difficult bar exam in the country twice, you may ask? The short version is that I was living in another state, and my licensing process lapsed before I could decide whether I was ready to move to California to practice law. My legal experience in California began in 2014, when I started as the office manager for a growing traffic law practice in Bakersfield, CA. Once getting established in the area (and deciding to stay!), I re-took the bar exam and this time was sworn in properly as a California attorney.
I'm thrilled to be located here in Kern county, and have found ways to volunteer as an advocate for the community. I am also a member of the Kern County Bar Association. I firmly believe in our legal system, especially that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. I am proud to be a part of the vital checks and balances that must be diligently maintained within the legal system, and look forward to helping you with your case!
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in California for 8 years
State: California
Acquired: 2018
No misconduct found
Location
Underwood Law Firm
2019 Westwind Drive, Ste E, Bakersfield, CA, 93301
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Kari M. Underwood's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
43 Client Reviews
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Practice Areas
Showing 1 - 5 of 10 reviews | Communication Style
Posted by anonymous | September 23, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Magnificent representation!
I received a speeding ticket while on vacation last year and Mrs. Underwood was able to help me out with the best of results! I live in another state so I was nervous about my case and I am extremely pleased with the representation I received. The underwood office was very professional and communi...
Posted by Karan | September 21, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Best Traffic Attorney
Let me tell everyone something very simple. If you do not choose Kari, you're already not on the right path. Kari is very well versed in traffic matters and explained her strategy clearly. I got a dismissal on over-speeding and Failure to Appear. This review comes from a person whose brother is a...
Posted by Roman | March 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Underwood Law for the Win!
Kari Underwood and her Team at Underwood Law handled my speeding citation. From beginning to end they kept me well informed. The whole process was handled with ease without me ever having to leave my zip code, as the city I received the citation in was 400 miles from my home. They obtained the judgme...
Posted by Fernando | March 08, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
These are the people to go to for a CDL speeding ticket
Got a speeding ticket going down the 5 freeway heading towards Bakersfield. Contacted Underwood law firm and they took care of me every step of the way. They kept me updated after every Court date and with the steps of what was going to happen next. My ticket was completely dismissed and as a CDL haz...
Posted by Darrell | January 06, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Definitely Recommend Underwood Law Firm
I unfortunately got a speeding ticket on I-5 south of Lost Hills back in March of 2023. I am a UPS Teamster CDL driver, and this was my first citation in about 20 years. Through the Teamsters Legal Services, I was able to find the Underwood Law Firm. From day one, the Underwood Law Firm was very att...
Kari M. Underwood's Lawyer Endorsements
"Kari is a zealous advocate for her traffic and DUI clients. She's a great partner and vital member of the team that helps our firm obtain the best results for our clients. I endorse this lawyer."
John Underwood
DUI and DWI lawyer
Experience
Work Experience
2018 - Present
Attorney, Underwood Law Firm
2016 - 2018
Office Manager, Underwood Law Firm
2014 - 2016
Office Manager, Bigger & Harman
Associations
2020 - Present
Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2018 - Present
Kern County Bar AssociationMember
2018 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
Education
2000
Oak Brook COL & Gov't Policy
JD - Juris Doctor
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
How come I have to show up in court instead of just paying the price?
25 Jan 2021
Q&A
Why did I get an Sr22 and do I need one should I hire an attorney?
28 Jan 2021
Q&A
May I request TRIAL BY WRITTEN DECLARATION after a date is scheduled for ARRAIGNMENT AND TRIAL ON SAME DATE?
28 Jan 2021