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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 8 reviews | Responsiveness
Posted by anonymous | September 21, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Excellent communications, strategy, and most importantly -RESULTS!
I am a resident of another state and received a speeding ticket in CA while traveling for work. Kari took my case and relieved me of the travel and stress of managing the ticket. She immediately got a new court date, kept me informed with direct concise communications, and was able to get the enti...
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...
Posted by anonymous | September 20, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Speeding Ticket
Updated me every step of the way and answered all my questions to help me better understand the process. Also won the case!!!!
Posted by Austin | March 17, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Speeding Ticket Over 100
Mrs. Underwood was very professional, courteous and punctual with my case. They were realistic with the consultation and told me they would do their best to keep my license from getting suspended as it is required for my job. She informed me that it was highly unlikely that the case would be dismisse...
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