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Jeffrey Tyson Hammerschmidt

Criminal defense Attorney at Fresno, CA

4.9   33 reviews

also known as Jeff Hammerschmidt

Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 36 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1987
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Jeffrey

Learn Jeffrey’s areas of practice.

FRESNO BASED CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY, DEDICATED TO PROVIDING THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF LEGAL SERVICE.

I am a Fresno based government investigations attorney and criminal defense attorney, dedicated to providing the highest level of legal service.

I  represent people who are accused of crimes in California courts and in Federal courts throughout the United States. I handle all types of criminal cases, including white collar crimes, drug crimes, crimes of violence, and other criminal matters.  I also represent people who are being investigated for crimes but have not yet been charged with a crime.

For those persons who are charged with or convicted of a crime and who hold a professional license, such as physicians, attorneys, nurses, contractors and others, I also handle administrative matters regarding licensing penalties.

I have been featured on five national television shows related to my work in criminal law.  These include In Ice Cold Blood, American Justice, Dominick Dunne's Power, Privilege and Justice, Forensic Files, and on Solved.  I am certified by the California State Bar as a Criminal Law Specialist.  I am AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest rating given to any attorney for legal ability and ethics. I have also been listed in Northern California Super Lawyers from 2009-2019, and in Northern California Super Lawyers Top 100 in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. 

I am admitted to practice in California, and in federal courts, including the Ninth Circuit and the United States Supreme Court.

My goal is to provide representation to clients in the manner I'd want to receive if I was the client.  To me, this means returning telephone calls, keeping the client advised, and providing legal service that results in the best possible outcome to the client.  It means not rushing clients through meetings and making sure the client gets his or her questions answered completely. 

Should you find yourself in the position of being investigated for or charged with a crime, I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about your matter.

 

Recent federal case results:


United States v. Carmen C. (2018 case that was sentenced in 2019) – Client charged with drug conspiracy charges with 10 year mandatory minimum. Case settled for probation on a phone count with no jail time.


United States v. M. Williams (December 2017 arrest and case was sentenced in 2019) – Client charged with fraud of more than $500,000. Client sentenced to probation with no jail time.


United States v. Basil H. (2017 Indictment that was resolved in 2019) – Physician charged with medical billing fraud. Case resolved with a Deferred Prosecution Agreement with no admission of liability on the client’s part and no action on his medical license.


United States v. A. Pedraza (2018 Indictment that was sentenced in 2019) – Client charged with distribution of methamphetamine and marijuana. Client sentenced to probation with no jail time.


United States v. C. Farooq (2016 Indictment with sentencing in 2019) – Client charged with distribution of illegal drugs on Alpha Bay, a cryptocurrency site on the dark web. Client received a sentence of 23 months prison. A similarly situated co-defendant was sentenced to 78 months prison.

California state court cases and investigations:


People v. Gregory O. (Case filed in 2016 in Merced County with sentencing in 2019) – Client charged with four counts of bribing a public official and one count of a Government Code violation. Case settled with all bribery counts dismissed and client sentenced to felony probation on the Government Code violation with electronic monitor and no actual jail time.


People v. M. Borunda (Case filed in 2018 in Fresno County with sentencing in 2019) – Client charged with felony DUI (4th DUI in 10 years). Client sentenced to felony probation and 138 days of custody, which were served on house arrest wearing a SCRAMx ankle monitor. (SCRAMx is an ankle monitor that detects alcohol usage and also tracks location. Judge allowed house arrest in place of actual jail time.)


People v. Michael K. (Case filed in Fresno County in 2018 and was sentenced in 2019) – Client is a physician who was charged with a misdemeanor DUI. Case settled for probation on a wet reckless (lower level DUI) with no jail time and no community service. As is required by the Medical Board, the case was reported to the board within 30 days. The board advised that no action would be taken (No Accusation and no public or private reproval.)


Prefiling investigation in Fresno County in 2019 – James A – Client is a physician who was alleged to have inappropriately touched a patient during an examination. Client interviewed with law enforcement with attorney present. Client and attorney informed by law enforcement at the conclusion of the interview that no crime occurred and that the matter would not be referred to the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Client retained his position as a physician at a hospital and he was not required to report the investigation to the Medical Board.

 

 

Awards

Gold Client Champion
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating
Client's Choice 2012,2011
Client's Choice
2012 2011
Top Contributor 2012
Top Contributor
2012

Contact Jeffrey

Hammerschmidt Law Corporation

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  33 customer reviews
5 Star
 
97%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
3%
Client's Choice 2012
Client's Choice
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 Terri | April 15, 2013
Jeffrey T. Hammerschmidt - The BEST Criminal Defense Attorney In Town
My father was a business man and he always had told me growing up, that if I ever needed an attorney, to ALWAYS HIRE THE BEST. So now that I am a business woman that holds two different professional licenses, I needed to hire the best criminal defense attorney, as I was charged with a FELONY Domestic Violence charge in 2007 and another Felony Domestic Violence charge in 2013. Needless to say, a FELONY conviction would mean that I would lose both my professional licenses, along with losing my livelihood. And I was NOT going to allow that to happen. Therefore, I hired Jeff Hammerschmidt - THE BEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN TOWN, hands down! I was truly innocent in both the 2007 DV charge and the 2013 DV charge, and I told Jeff that I wanted everything dismissed since I was INNOCENT. Jeff worked hard, pulling police reports, writing letters to the DA's office, communicating with the ADA in regards to the other party's statement in the police report did not support the physical evidence, and all the while, BELIEVING ME AND BELIEVING IN ME! Then recently, in January 2013, I was charged with another FELONY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE charge w/ an enhanced great bodily injury charge added on to it. Jeff was my FIRST PHONE CALL I MADE EVEN BEFORE I WAS ARRESTED. He quickly communicated with my Office Manager within a couple of hours and told her no problem, he would handle everything. Jeff's vast knowledge of CRIMINAL LAW, along with his experience and insight gained from working in the District Attorney's office years ago (as he helped prosecute the Dana Ewel case years ago that I remember watching), I believe, is one of many key factors that allows Jeff to be the attorney that he is. Jeff's knowledge of how and what makes the DA's office tick, definitely showed in his communication with their office and the letters that he wrote to the ADA explaining in great detail why the facts supported that my cases needed to be dismissed. He kept me informed and always explained to me the stragety that he thought would be best to use (as there is always more than one way to approach a case). The first case in 2007, he took slow and steady. And within 6 months, he SUCCEEDED IN getting ALL MY CHARGES DISMISSED. My second case, in 2013, he took a different approach (as it was truly a different kind of case being that their was the enhanced charge of great bodily injury). And at the actual PRELIMINARY HEARING, he SUCCEEDED AGAIN in getting ALL MY CHARGES DISMISSED (which is pretty much unheard of getting felony charges dismissed so quickly)! I kid with him and tell him that he had it easy, because he defended an innocent client who was falsely accused. But I know just how hard Jeff worked on both my cases. And Jeff put all his knowledge, all of his resources, and many working hours into getting ALL of my charges in BOTH CASES, DISMISSED. So, if you are ever in need of a criminal defense attorney - GET THE BEST - AND HIRE JEFFREY T. HAMMERSCHMIDT. I APPRECIATE Jeff for keeping both my reputation and my livelihood, intact. Thank you Jeff, for ALL that you have done for my family and I and for always being there, in my corner, when needed!
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Posted by Dean | April 26, 2013
Excellent Lawyer
Jeff was an amazing man to work with! He worked on my case and was able to reduce all of my felony charges down to misdemeanors. Jeff was honest, respectful, thoughtful, and really listened to my background. He took all of the information that I provided and made a great case out of it. I would recommend Jeff Hammerschmidt to anyone and everyone who is in need of a great lawyer. Jeff treated me like a regular guy not some criminal. I would highly advise hiring Jeff for any criminal case. If i ever need another lawyer I would not think twice to hire Jeff again. His services were well worth the small amount that I paid for the services that I recieved.
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Posted by anonymous | June 14, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Helpful
Calling Jeff to receive an opinion over the phone had been very helpful and drove me into the right direction with how I should go about pursuing my situation. I look forward to working with Jeff if there ever comes the situation I end up needing him in the future.
Posted by Jacob | June 11, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best criminal defense in town!
Jeff and his team worked very hard for the better part of 5 years since my conviction to help me through the DUI process as well as getting it expunged. I can not thank Jeff and the rest of Hammerschmidt law enough for all there help.
Posted by Larry Lerma Jr | May 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional
Mr Hammerschmidt, was a great help in a case that was brought up against me. His professional knowledge in these matters is above and beyond. I want to thank you, for your professional services in this matter.
Posted by Randy | August 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional
Hammerschmidt Law has one of the best reputations for delivering an exceptional professional experience. During my initial meeting with Mr. Hammerschmidt and Miss Harrison, I was confident they would be the best choice to handle my case. Jeff and Rena were both punctual and detailed and stayed in constant communication with me. They provided excellent guidance while helping me make tough decisions and their years of experience helped the discussions. I completely trust this law office as they have all the tools to help each client in all situations.
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Posted by Lisa | July 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Auto Accident Felony DUI Prescription Medication
Auto Accident Charged with Felony DUI Great Bodley Harm for prescription medication. I was referred to Jeff Hammerschmidt for this felony charge and glad that I contacted him for this case. After a consultation Jeff took on the case keeping me informed by phone and emails. Jeff and his staff were so great and professional gathering information to defend me in this case with medical records of the second party and discovering faults claims of injuries. At the end this case was dropped to a misdemeanor DUI. This was a win to me. If I was to ever need a defense lawyer again or to refer someone Hammerschmidt Law would be the one. Sincerely Lisa
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Posted by anonymous | February 7, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extremely Knowledgeable and Professional
Jeff was referred to me by a friend when I was charged with a misdemeanor crime. Jeff went above and beyond to explain the process to me and what options we had. He worked for the best possible outcome which ultimately lead to the charges being dropped. The case was dismissed. It is scary to be unjustly charged with a crime. Law Enforcement often does not have all the correct information and you can end up in "the system" for a legal act. With Jeff in your corner the whole process is much less intimidating. I would highly recommend Jeff to anyone looking for legal counsel and representation.
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Posted by Ramon | July 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
CDL Driver
Jeff Hammerschidt is a extrodanary attorney! I was being charged with a DUI and Mr. Jeff worked hard to drop all of my charges. Thank You Sir!
Posted by Case | March 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
His experience saved me.
I can't thank Mr. Hammerschmidt enough. He protected my professional license that was in jeopardy if charges were filed. I was well informed during the entire process thanks to him. I'm grateful to have my career back.
Posted by anonymous | January 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best person for the job!
I hired Jeff Hammerschmidt initially to review my case and give me his opinion on whether I should accept the plea deal being offered to me or go to trial. After meeting with Jeff Hammerschmidt I immediately regret not having found and retained him as my attorney at the start of my indictment because I am positive the outcome of my case would have been very different. I then hired Mr. Hammerschmidt AFTER I had been sentenced and let down by my own attorney. Not only did Mr. Hammerschmidt assist me as I prepared to deal with my sentence, but he performed a miracle and got me a sentence reduction AFTER I had been sentenced! If you want an attorney that truly cares and will do everything possible to get you the best outcome he can, this man is the person for the job.
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Posted by Ray | March 31, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended Attorney
Jeff is an excellent and very experienced attorney. He helped me through my case and was very helpful in explaining every step of the process of getting through it. I highly recommend the services of this law firm.
Posted by anonymous | March 10, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI - incredibly thankful i hired Jeff
I was out of town on vacation when i received my DUI. When i got home and began researching lawyers, i talked to 6 different attorneys in the Fresno/Madera area - many who specialized in DUI cases. Jeff is a criminal attorney and stood out from the others, as he talked to me like he truly cared about me and my case and made me feel like everything would be ok. Sure enough, he helped me through every step of the process. He was always willing to make time for a meeting, even if there were no updates. Everytime i spoke with him, i felt better. My case dragged on and in the end, he was able to secure me a very good deal. He provided excellent advice throughout the process and helped provide direction on what i could do to help him get the best possible outcome for my case. He is honest, trustworthy and i am so thankful i chose him to represent me. You will be extremely happy if you hire Jeff as the attorney to represent you.
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Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Intelligence and Accuracy
Answered the question by pin pointing the main point of it and breaking down the reasons for his answer. He doesn't string you along until he wants you to retain him without any answers. He answers your questions point blank. I would recommend giving this man a chance.
Posted by Susan | October 9, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best legal outcome possible
My husband hired Mr. Hammerschmidt to help me through my felony embezzlement/identity theft plea bargain with the DA. Jeff assisted me through the most difficult, excruciatingly painful time in my life. He was upfront, direct AND compassionate. Jeff took my case and "walked" me through a legal process unknown. Although I had already admitted guilt when Jeff was hired, he worked diligently on my behalf resulting in a sentence which was far less than the minimum guidelines. Jeff's expertise provided me with a decade of my life back!
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Posted by Kay | February 12, 2015
Jeffery Hammerschmidt Endorsement
One of our family members needed a lawyer and Jeffry came highly recommended to us. Our case was a very difficult case and with Jeffrey's experience the end result was amazing. We respect and appreciate this honest man of integrity. He is the best.
Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2014
If you want the best...
Jeff is one of the most kind, professional, honest, upfront lawyers I have met. Please know that with lawyers you get what you pay for! If you want results, you need to hire the best and I think that is Jeff! We were overwhelmingly impressed with him. He was able to get my husbands sentence from a possible 5 years in prison to 3 months in county jail. We cant sing his praises enough!
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Posted by Gabriela | January 24, 2014
I highly recommend Mr. Hammerschmidt
Mr. Hammerschmidt helped me seek the best possible outcome for my very unfortunate DUI case. He is personable, but professional, and exceptionally knowledgeable. I trust him implicitly and felt comfortable and confident with all of his legal counsel. He always speaks to me in a way that I can understand, fields all of my questions with clear competence and expertise, and listens with an open mind to my own thoughts and input -- all of which I appreciate greatly. I feel absolutely certain that my case would not have been resolved as efficiently with any other attorney as my representative.
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Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2013
Excellent Attorney
Jeff Hammerschmidt is an outstanding attorney. I hired Jeff Hammerschmidt in early 2009 for felony drug charges. Jeff Hammerschmidt answered all of my questions, got back to me quickly, and kept me up to date on the status of my case. Jeff treated me like a regular guy not some criminal. I would recommend Jeff Hammerschmidt to anyone and everyone who is in need of a great lawyer. Thank You Jeff for all your hard work
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Posted by anonymous | November 27, 2012
Trustworthy,Honest and Fast legal advice when needed!
A true an honest Attorney.I contacted him regarding a professional licensing matter and he provided a thorough honest assessment and gave me the consultation over phone without charging a penny while other Attorney's were demanding between $1000-1500 for the same service. One should Contact him whenever one needs any legal guidance.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 500-550 per hour
Payment methods
Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Vice-Chair
  • California Board of Legal Specialization
  • 2022 - Present
  • Shareholder
  • Hammerschmidt Law Corporation
  • 2005 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor
  • San Joaquin College Of Law
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Senior Legal Advisor to Fresno Police Department
  • City Attorney's Office, Fresno
  • 2005 - 2005
  • Deputy District Attorney
  • Fresno County District Attorney
  • 2000 - 2005
  • Partner
  • Jory Peterson Watkins & Smith
  • 1998 - 2000
  • Legal Instructor
  • San Joaquin College of Law
  • 1992 - 2005
  • Deputy District Attorney
  • Fresno County District Attorney
  • 1991 - 1998
  • Associate
  • McCormick Barstow
  • 1987 - 1991
View all work experience

Education

  • Fresno County Bar Association
  • What Civil Attorneys Need To Know About Criminal Law
  • 2021
  • Tulare County Bar Association
  • What Civil Attorneys Need To Know About Criminal Law
  • 2021
  • Univ of Missouri SOL
  • Juris Doctorate - Law
  • 1987
  • Truman State University
  • undergraduate
  • 1983
View all education

Legal Cases

  • United States v. J. Robinson
  • Mr. Robinson was sentenced to five years of probation with no additional time in custody beyond the 5 ½ months served.
  • People v. Clayton G.
  • We won the DMV hearing and obtained a dismissal of the DUI in court.
  • People v. Kimberly R.
  • Case settled for a dismissal of the DUI charges in exchange for a plea to an infraction and a $100 fine.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Criminal Trial Lawyers Association of America
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • CJA Panel Selection Committee
  • Board Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • United States Supreme Court Bar
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2011 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • State Bar of California, Criminal Law Section
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization
  • Certified Criminal Law Specialist
  • 1998 - Present
  • High School Mock Trial Competition
  • Volunteer Attorney
  • 1992 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 1987 - Present
  • Supreme Court of California
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 1987 - Present
  • Fresno County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1987 - Present
  • California Academy of Attorneys for Healthcare Professionals
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2020
  • State Bar of California, Criminal Law Advisory Commission
  • Chair
  • 2015 - 2016
  • State Bar of California, Criminal Law Advisory Commission
  • Vice Chair
  • 2014 - 2015
  • Kings County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - 2015
  • State Bar of California, Criminal Law Advisory Commission
  • Board Member
  • 2012 - 2016
  • State Bar of California, Criminal Law Advisory Commission
  • Member
  • 2012 - 2014
  • St. Agnes Hospital Men's Club
  • Board Member
  • 2010 - 2017
  • Volunteers in Parole
  • Chairman
  • 2001 - 2001
  • Volunteers In Parole
  • Board Member
  • 1997 - 2009
  • High School Mock Trial Competition
  • Attorney Coach for Clovis West H.S.
  • 1991 - 1991
  • National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  • Chairman, Central California Chapter
  • 1989 - 1989
  • National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  • Vice-Chair
  • 1988 - 1988
  • National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  • Board Member
  • 1987 - 1987
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Fellow
  • American Bar Foundation
  • 2023
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2022
  • Fellow
  • American Bar Foundation
  • 2022
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2021
  • Fellow
  • American Bar Foundation
  • 2021
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2020
  • Fellow
  • American Bar Foundation
  • 2020
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2019
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2019
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2018
  • AV Preeminent
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2018
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2016
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2016
  • AV Preeminent
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2016
  • Northern California SuperLawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2015
  • Blue Ribbon Panel
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2015
  • Lifetime Charter Member
  • Best Attorneys of America
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Blue Ribbon Panel
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2014
  • Top 10 Attorney Award - Northern California
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2014
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Client Distinction Award
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2013
  • Top Rated Lawyers in White Collar Criminal Defense
  • Corporate Counsel Magazine
  • 2013
  • Top Rated Lawyer in White Collar Criminal Defense
  • The American Lawyer Magazine
  • 2013
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2012
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2012
  • Blue Ribbon Panel
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2012
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2011
  • Blue Ribbon Panel
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2011
  • Who's Who in American Law
  • Sutton Who's Who
  • 2011
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • San Francisco Magazine and Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2011
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2010
  • Member
  • Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Northern California Super Lawyer
  • Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2010
  • Who's Who Among Law Professionals
  • Montclair Publishing
  • 2010
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2009
  • Member
  • Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
  • 2009
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2008
  • Outstanding Volunteer
  • Volunteers in Parole
  • 2001
  • Certified Criminal Law Specialist
  • State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization
  • 1998
View all awards

Publications

  • Utilizing Forensic Science in Criminal Cases (Aspatore)
  • Forensic Evidence In Child Abuse Cases
  • 2011
  • California Criminal Law - Procedure and Practice
  • Contributing Author to chapter on using prior convictions to impeach a witness
  • 1997

Speaking Engagements

  • Got MCLE? 2022
  • Tips and Tricks in Civil, Criminal, and Family Law
  • 2022
  • ABC
  • Legal Analyst
  • 2018
  • Leadership Fresno Class 34 Law Day
  • Defending Federal and State Criminal Actions
  • 2018
  • ABC
  • Legal Analyst
  • 2017
  • ABC
  • Legal Analyst
  • 2016
  • MCLE Luncheon
  • California Legal Specialization
  • 2015
  • MCLE Luncheon
  • Use of Media in the Justice System
  • 2015
  • ABC
  • Legal Analyst
  • 2015
  • ABC
  • Legal Analyst
  • 2014
  • Collateral Consequences of Criminal Convictions on Professional Licenses
  • Criminal Law
  • 2010
  • Legal and Ethical Issues in Sports Marketing
  • Criminal law
  • 2010
  • National Business Institute
  • Effective Case Presentation at Trial
  • 2010
  • California State University Fresno
  • Legal and Ethical Issues in Sports Marketing
  • 2009
  • Fresno County Public Defender's Office
  • Obtaining Peace Officer Personnel Records
  • 2006
  • San Joaquin College of Law
  • Evidence
  • 2004
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (39)
Given (47)
Endorse Jeffrey
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Having worked with Jeff Hammerschmidt in civil practice and in the DA's office previously, I have watched him develop as a skilled trial lawyer over the 20+ years he appeared before me as a judge of the Superior Court. Whether you are facing a governmental investigation or licensing issue, or serious criminal charges, he is currently the premier defense attorney in the San Joaquin Valley."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse this lawyer's work. He is dedicated, smart, and committed to the defense of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer.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 | Sep 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"27 years practicing of law. As a former DA and police advisor he has a huge advantage over other attorneys. " They know that he knows what they know ". A law professor and a practitioner is always current on changes in the law. This is just a part of his legal legacy. READ HIS REVIEWS! If you are in or near Fresno do yourself a favor and schedule an interview. Experience counts. KUDOS"
Criminal defense Attorney | May 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Jeffrey. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Mr. Hammerschmidt is by far, one of the premier criminal defense attorneys in the Central San Joaquin Valley. I worked for Mr. Hammerschmidt for almost 2 years, aiding him in his criminal defense practice. Mr. Hammerschmidt, being a former prosecutor (who was one of the prosecutors on the Dana Ewell case), knows the criminal justice system inside and out. He is creative, meticulous, thorough, and hard working, handling all species of case, from misdemeanors to murder trials. I can't say enough about his attention to detail, which is so important, because he realizes that these details are key in making or breaking a case. He has obtained many favorable results for his clients over the many years Mr. Hammerschmidt has practiced, and I highly recommend Mr Hammerschmidt if you are facing criminal charges of any sort. You will be in good hands with Hammerschmidt on your case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Always on top of his game you can expect the best from Jeff. Highly respected."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jeff is an outstanding litigator and an asset to his clients in the courtroom. His knowledge base is vast and understands the intricate parts of criminal law."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is very smart and works very hard for his clients. God forbid I ever need him, but if I did, I would call only him to help me out!"
White collar crime Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've seen Jeff's legal acumen in action up close for over six years. He is literally the Best of the Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in California. Having worked as a DA (District Prosecuting Attorney) for many years gives Jeff a perfect understanding of the situation, the ability to resolve your case is the best possible way. I'm continually impressed about Jeff's being at the "point of the spear" in all things related to DUI and Criminal Defense in California. He ain't cheap, but he is the best."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Hammerschmidt for a very long time, having both worked with him in the District Attorney's Office and also having opposed him while he has been in private practice . He is not only a law school professor of the first order, but he is someone people instinctively trust because of his professionalism and straight-forward personality. Without doubt he is one of the top criminal defense attorneys in the Central Valley."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"There is no question in my mind that Jeff Hammerschmidt is one of the top criminal defense attorneys in all of California! He has developed a specialty of working with professionals with licenses (like doctors, nurses, etc) who find themselves in a difficult situation. What many of them do not know before hiring Jeff is that when charged with a crime or dui they have their entire career and license on the line. I strongly recommend when it matters to have the very best criminal defense attorney on your side that you immediately hire Jeff. You would be foolish to go anywhere else!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I highly recommend Jeffrey Hammerschmidt. His knowledge of the California criminal justice system is unparalleled, especially if you risk losing your professional license (and livelihood). Jeffrey works tirelessly on his client’s behalf and is dedicated to their defense. If you are in need of an excellent criminal defense attorney, I recommend that you speak with Jeffrey and his team about your representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have referred clients, business acquaintances and friends to Jeff with full confidence that Jeff would provide them with the best available defense."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 10
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jeffrey Hammerschmidt may be the only California attorney certified as a Criminal Law Specialist that specializes in professional licensing issues. He is certainly the only attorney to trust to make sure you keep your professional license after being charged with a crime. Jeff is in high demand and doesn’t come cheap but he is well worth it if keeping your license is a necessity."
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