Sally did the necessary work to get my case thrown out court! I would definitely recommend her to anyone facing criminal charges. Thank you again Sally!
Hiring an Attorney is such an intimidating experience all in itself, however Sally 100% put me at ease within the first 5 minutes of my consultation.. She took her time and went over the in and outs of my case without at anytime making me feel rushed.. the day of my hearing, she came in with a full force approach and did not for once second back down against the other attorney!.. my case ended up getting thrown out!.. to see her skills in action is truly amazing.. I would 100% recommend her.. I hope not, but if I were to need an attorney again she would 100% be the one!!
ARRESTED IN CALI, CALL SALLY! 855-SALLY-CALIARRESTED IN CALI, CALL SALLY!AS A MOTHER I UNDERSTAND HOW OVERWHELMED YOU FEEL WHEN YOUR CHILD IS IN TROUBLE. AS AN ATTORNEY I HAVE DEDICATED MY PRACTICE TO DEFENDING CHILDREN, TO CONTINUED EDUCATION IN THE EVER CHANGING JUVENILE LAWS IN CALIFORNIA, AND UNDERSTANDING THE PHYSIOLOGY OF WHAT MAKES CHILDREN DIFFERENT THAN ADULT.
I was born and bred to defend! Both of my parents were criminal defense attorneys and taught me how important a proper defense is! From a very young age I knew that my passion was to serve my community as a criminal defense attorney. My Bachelor of Science degree is in Criminology: Forensics Behavioral Science, which taught me the history of crime and how social and biological factors contribute to an individual committing a crime. I take that knowledge and apply it to the courtroom, fighting for my clients to get the proper treatment so that they never come back to court- as opposed to a system set on incarceration and punishment.
While in law school I spent two and a half years working for a prominent criminal defense law firm so that upon becoming an attorney I could hit the ground running. At that firm I worked closely with the two partners that had a combined 80+ years of experience and involved me in every step of very complicated and high profile cases. I worked at that firm for another three years as a lawyer before taking a leap and starting my own firm, Proper Defense Law Corporation where the lawyer you hire is the lawyer that handles your case. Where your lawyer talks to you on the phone when you have a concern- not two days later. I set out to provide the defense that clients want and need! At Proper Defense Law we do defense different, we do it right!
I have committed my legal practice to focusing on criminal and juvenile defense, all persons accused of violating the law. I especially enjoy the opportunity to work with juveniles that get caught up in the justice system. I feel that youth are vital to our society and to have the chance to help a juvenile get their life back on track is invaluable to me.
I handle cases that cover the vast spectrum of criminal law in both federal and state courts all over California including: domestic violence; theft, robberies, and burglaries; felon gun use and possession allegations; domestic violence; batteries and assaults; assault with a deadly weapon/firearm; white collar crimes such as real estate, bank, medical, and welfare fraud; sex crimes (except for child molestation); solicitation and prostitution; arson; criminal threats; battery on an officer/resisting arrest; drive by shootings; kidnapping and false imprisonment; manufacturing and distribution of drugs; conspiracy and bribery; child abuse and child endangerment; cyber crimes; DUIs and BUIs; vehicular homicide; manslaughter; murder; rape; and gang allegations.
I am a passionate attorney and I am eager to represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings whether wrongly accused, overcharged, or unjustly convicted.
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | June 13, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Work!
Sally did the necessary work to get my case thrown out court! I would definitely recommend her to anyone facing criminal charges. Thank you again Sally!
Posted by anonymous | May 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If I could give 10 STARS I would!
Hiring an Attorney is such an intimidating experience all in itself, however Sally 100% put me at ease within the first 5 minutes of my consultation.. She took her time and went over the in and outs of my case without at anytime making me feel rushed.. the day of my hearing, she came in with a full force approach and did not for once second back down against the other attorney!.. my case ended up getting thrown out!.. to see her skills in action is truly amazing.. I would 100% recommend her.. I hope not, but if I were to need an attorney again she would 100% be the one!!
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Posted by anonymous | February 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Humble new beginnings.
I had a very bad night caused by my choices leading up to that night. I found myself in bug trouble. Sally was there every step of the way. Very understanding, caring and no judgmental. Her and her staff we extremely courteous and work hard to help me out through everything. I am forever grateful.
Posted by anonymous | December 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Communicative, compassionate, and SIMPLY THE BEST
I worked with Sally throughout 2021. I had never been in the legal system so I was absolutely terrified. Sally made me feel hopeful and confident, all while being factual, honest and attentive to my questions and concerns. She was never hard to get a hold of and would always call back if she could not take a text or call. She takes the time to listen and got me the best possible outcome for my case. I would 100% recommend Sally to anyone looking for the best!
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Posted by Valentin | November 9, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI Case
Just when I thought all hope was lost after being arrested for a DUI. I was referred to Proper Defense more specifically Sally from a good friend of mine. When I sat down with Sally and explained the entire situation, she was quick to jump into action and start moving on the offensive. Sally not only did what was required but went above and beyond to ensure all other aspects were covered in closing my case! If you’re in doubt, and you need help. I highly recommended Sally with Proper Defense!!
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Posted by anonymous | November 9, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Unimpeachable Attorney
Sally defended my name and created the best possible outcome for my case. I was initially charged with 7 felonies. All charges were dismissed.
I entered a plea to a misdemeanor charge and was sentenced to a year probation. Thank you so much for your help Sally.
Posted by anonymous | April 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing!
Sally is one of the best! She changed the course of my case and truly cared about helping me. I would highly recommend
Posted by Dawn J | April 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The absolute BEST!!
I highly recommend Sally Vecchiarelli. She is very knowledgeable, kind, and confident. I am very satisfied with the way she handled my case. I travel for work and was unable to attend court proceedings, but Sally always kept me well informed. She took the time to explain the process in detail. if your looking for a lawyer that genuinely have your best interest at hand and will work hard in your defense, Sally Vecchiarelli is just the person.
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Posted by Mary | March 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Deserves A Gazillion Stars ⭐️
Sally was referred to us by a family member. She did an amazing job. She was able to get my husbands drivers license back and his DUI case dismissed all in a timely manner. If I can giver more than 5 Stars ⭐️ I’d giver her a Gazillion stars ⭐️ . Thank you Sally.
Mary….
Posted by Lee D. | January 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Charged with illegal handgun possession 2 counts while traveling through California
While traveling through the state I was involved in a one sided road rage incident which the perp showed me a handgun , I reported him to authorities and I was charged with 2 Counts of illegally possessing loaded handguns and was forced to surrender my property to law enforcement after a takedown of the perp. I was merely traveling home back to Texas while improperly transporting my loaded handguns in the legal prescribed manner . I was harrrased as an out of state licensed handgun owner which my carry license is recognized in 46 other states and I was a double victim of a serious handgun crime for being forthcoming about what was itraveling with my vehicle . I was charged by mail of 2 counts loaded handguns and being a law abided citizen of 63 years , I was in deep trouble . After contacting the proper law defense I was called up and put on the phone with Sally V. She was quick to tell me how things were going to happen and after finances were discussed ( straight forward and affordable) she appeared on my behalf and plead down my case to a dismissal
And records tossed out.Counselor Sally Vecharrelli actually traveled up to capital city and appeared in person to defend this case with an unbelievable outcome . I am now awaiting the return of my Guns property back to Texas to me .Contacting Sally Vecharrelli at the proper law defense Law firm was the best thing I could have decided to do ! Sally V. Was a pleasure to speak with as she was cool, calm, and calculated as to my legal defense , she delivered as she said she would possibly be able to .She will forever be my incredible ROCKSTAR !! Lee D. Texas
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Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fighting, Understanding, Kind and Persevering.
Sally Vecchiarelli was my lawyer in late 2019 through early 2020, and I am so grateful for her understanding and persevering attitude.
Sally knows what she is talking about, and knows how to get things done. She clearly told me what my options were, and the likelihood of each should I choose any of them. She was always very prompt, and very friendly and kind to me.
Sally undoubtably knows what she's talking about, and actually cares, putting a whole new meaning to fighting for someone.
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Posted by Crystal | July 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely the BEST!! (Juvenile Defense Case)
When my husband and I were faced with our youngest son going to juvenile hall for a criminal offense and then being taken away from us; we were devastated. This was the first time we had ever been faced with something like this, and it was the first time my son had ever broken the law, never even coming close before this. We did not retain an attorney right away which proved to be a HUGE mistake, instead we put our hopes in a court appointed attorney. By the time we reached out to Sally we felt beat down by the justice system that we trusted, even victimized by them, and completely lost.
We decided to retain Sally as our son’s representative after just one phone call with her where we shared just a portion of what had played out, that led to our son’s felony charges, and his placement in a group home. That was the turning point for our family! Hands down!
Sally knows the laws in CA, and she will not shy away from confronting those who wish to violate her clients civil rights simply because they have been charged with a crime. She is professional, knowledgeable, kind, and she truly invested herself and her time into my son’s case. She was forthcoming and straightforward, and she always spoke positively about our son and his case, speaking truth into his situation and helping us to see the light at the end of what was a year and half long ordeal.
Don’t wait; don’t hesitate. Sally is an amazing attorney and an equally amazing person. She will do her absolute best to represent and defend your child in court, and she will never lead you to believe something that isn’t true. She is a true advocate for her clients without prejudice. I will recommend her without hesitation to anyone who ever needs a defense attorney, Juvenile or otherwise.
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Posted by anonymous | July 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Never thought I would ever need to hire an attorney for a criminal case against me, at that a federal case!!
Sally was hired midway of my court process. If only I had Sally from the beginning, and not a public defender. From the moment I reached out and spoke with Sally I felt at ease like she cared. From the start of our phone call consultation she took her time to hear my story and wanted all details. I had been lost and confused during my case. I had never been arrested or even have a speeding ticket. I didn't understand the court talk or the process at all. Once Sally was hired she made the time to catch up and fight for me. She was patient and explained every step so I could understand. I wanted somone to fight for me and I didn't want to feel alone during this process. I was afraid, I love my family and I couldn't imagine not being there for them daily. I highly recommend Sally Vecchiarelli and I am thankful for the recommendation from a friend I was given to call her.
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Posted by April | June 30, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledgeable
I consulted with Sally and hired her. She was by far the most helpful lawyer I consulted with. I was not rushed she gave my lots of her time and information with no pressure to feel obligated to hire her. The case in a juvenile case so as a mom this is already the scariest time and I my first time ever needing legal assistance. I contacted over 50 lawyers and she was most respectful, knowledgeable, and helpful. She made me feel at ease and able to breathe. She put my child’s best interest first. While my case has not been completed due to COVID and its delays she has always kept my in the loop and quickly responds. I write this review feeling blessed, she spoke with my child going over case and how process would go so they would know what to expect. After speaking with my child, my child told me they understood her and feel safe now having her there helping through this rough time. As a mom of a shy child who is scared and never been in trouble my heart is happy. I am thankful to Sally for all she does and continues to do. She has a heart and passion for children and it shows not to mention her skills are amazing. I will update a review once case is settled as well.
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Posted by Matt | March 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Who you want in your corner
During a situation of uncertainty and when faced with unfamiliar legal territories, it was important for me to have someone on my side who could offer guidance, advocate for my rights and provide support with legal advice. What Sally did for me went above and beyond that. She was my first line of defense, she stepped in immediately and took on all the stress of court appearances, she spoke on my behalf, she very articulately and directly explained every detail of the process along the way so that I could make the best decision for me and my family. The ease with which I was able to navigate my particular legal situation and find resolution is incredible and it's because I had Sally in my corner. My situation was resolved and we were able to move on with our lives with every confidence that we would be ok all thanks to Sally Vecchiarelli. She is the absolute best at what she does and is someone to know, to have in your corner and to call on for anything you might need. Any doubt about outcomes will disappear when you realize what she is able to do for her clients and their families. Thank you again Sally!
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Posted by anonymous | March 12, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Law School Graduate
I cannot recommend a better attorney than Sally. I only had a consult with her but she answered every question I had (and questions I didn't even know I should have been asking) in a way that left me informed and relieved. I am eternally grateful for the advice and legal knowledge she left me with and would strongly encourage anyone to reach out to her for legal help. Had I needed a lawyer long-term there is no doubt in my mind that I would have hired her immediately and if you're on the fence about hiring an attorney the best thing I could tell you is to just give her a call. You won't regret it.
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Posted by Jonathan | February 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer Highly Recommend
I had an attorney before Sally and she was no help at all. Sallys very confident in all her actions as she wants every detail to defend you. You feel her positive attitude, which makes all your stress go away. She really did an amazing job now I’m back on track. Sally is an amazing attorney I highly recommend her!
Posted by Hunter | October 27, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sally Vecchiarelli criminal defense review
Sally was extremely motivated and determined to get the best outcome from my 4 misdemeanors from start to finish. During my court process Mrs.Vecchiarelli kept in contact routinely and explained each step of the way thoroughly, and attended all court dates on time. While the maximum punishment for me could have been around 2 years in jail, Sally got 3/4 misdemeanors dismissed, and house arrest for 90 days on the 1 that we couldn’t. That being said, she arranged everything for house arrest for me, providing me with all the details. She will go above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to Criminal Defense attorneys.
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Posted by David | October 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Recommend Highly!
Ms Vecchiarelli has expert knowledge of California criminal law. Fresno prosecutors know her well; her professional dealings with them and other court personnel have earned their respect.
I was her client. A few days after I was booked and released on bail, Ms Vecchiarelli reviewed my situation with me and outlined my options. I sensed real empathy, not only for me but for anyone bewildered by the court system. Her fee was reasonable.
Ms Vecchiarelli guided my wife and me through three court appearances. She was available, even on weekends, when I needed to talk out my fears. The outcome of my case, nine weeks later, was better than I dared hope.
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Posted by DARRYL | July 27, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE PROPER DEFENSE, IS ELITE!
Mr. and Mrs. Vecchiarelli were very very professional and thorough!
I was initially referred to a firm who in my honest opinion had great attorneys and with all due respect, Mrs. Sally and Mr. Justin were on different stratospheres. As this was my first time ever needing an attorney, I learned a lot.
Anyone can become qualified to do anything, there's a textbook way to do all things that can become our jobs. When you are passionate about something, it shows in your work, as to you it is not work you are doing what you love. When you love what you do, you wont work a day in your life.
In my time as a client I got the impression that at The Proper Defense they love what they do, they're diligent, outstanding and HIGHLY recommended.
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Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Sally is a true professional and good person. She is always polite and listens closely to her clients. With the DAs she is respectful but at the same time I’ve witnessed her vigorously advocating on behalf of those clients. She gets great results and I endorse her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is talented and well respected in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a lawyer who truly cares about protecting the rights of her clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Domestic violence Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I had the opportunity to work together with Sally in a domestic violence case. She was knowledgeable regarding the criminal penalties our client was facing and was able to competently advise the client so as to place him in the best possible position for our custody/dissolution matter. I look forward to working with her in the future."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Vecchiarelli is extremely dedicated to her craft. She thrives off of challenging cases and is determined to seek the best results for her clients. I highly recommend her legal services."
Juvenile law Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I had the opportunity to work in the same courtroom (on a co-participant case) with Sally when she was still a law student, assisting another attorney. I was impressed with her knowledge of the law, and her writing abilities on motions work.
I have no problem with saying that I think Sally would fight hard for her clients, and that I believe she would do a great job at it."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Sally Vecchiarelli for around three years. Over the past few years she has always impressed me with her intelligence and work ethic. I have also observed Sally in court on a number of occasions and am always impressed by her poise and ability to communicate on her client's behalf. I highly recommend Sally Vecchiarelli for anyone looking for an attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 25
Relationship: Family member
"Sally is one of the hardest working and caring attorneys in the profession. My review may be seen as "bias" since I am married to her but as an attorney I know what traits separate good attorneys from great attorneys and Sally is clearly one of the great ones. Based on the fact that I live with her and see how much effort and time she spends working on her cases it has become evident to me that she possesses the "it" factor that separates her from many other attorneys in this profession.
You can be assured that Sally will fight hard for her clients, will go the extra mile to make sure no stone is left unturned and will make sure that each case is given both the time, energy and attention that it deserves."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 18
Relationship: Co-worker
"I highly recommend Sally. She is exceedingly bright and hard working, which is a rare and winning combination. I have witnessed her work first hand, and she truly cares about and does an excellent job for her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. Sally has been a law clerk with our firm for the last two and a half years, and we have worked closely on a number of cases. After passing the bar, she became an associate attorney with our firm, and we are lucky to have her. She is intelligent and passionate, and dedicates herself to her cases and achieving results for her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 26
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. Sally worked for our firm for two years as an intern and was so great she is now a lawyer with Hammerschmidt Broughton Law Corporation. She has worked on cases from DUIs to homicides, federal drug and sex cases, as well as complicated juvenile matters. She is one of the best young lawyers we have ever had and are lucky to have her. I trust her with my clients and know she is completely dedicated to everyone she represents. She's simply terrific!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 23
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. Sally worked for our firm for two years while in law school and joined our firm as an attorney upon passing the bar. She is an excellent advocate for our clients and passionate about her work. We are fortunate to have Sally as an associate at Hammerschmidt Broughton Law Corporation."