D. Michael Phillips

D. Michael Phillips

also known as Michael Phillips

4.6
Rating: 9.6

Licensed for 33 years

Personal injury Lawyer at Nevada City, CA
Practice Areas: Personal Injury, Car Accidents, Animal & Dog Bites ... +3 more

305 Railroad Ave, Suite 5, Nevada City, CA

About D. Michael

Biography

Practice Areas

6

Practice Areas

Animal and Dog Bites 20%

If you or a family member has been involved in a dog bite incident, you probably have questions. Being bitten or attacked by a dog can be very traumatic and injuries can be serious. Contact us to learn how we can help.

30 years

20%
Car Accident 20%

There is no such thing as a "generic" vehicle collision as every type of vehicle crash will have unique rules of fault and mechanics of injury. If you were hurt in any kind of motor vehicle accident, we have the experience to maximize your recovery.

30 years

20%
Personal Injury 20%

"Personal injury" is basically a term that refers to an entire group of injuries that happen to a person's body - not property, including the mind and emotional state of a person. Common are: trip and falls; dog bite; car accidents; hit by DUI driver

30 years

20%
Slip and Fall Accident 20%

If you "slip, trip and fall" and are injured because of a "dangerous condition" you may be entitled to compensation. However, time is critical before repairs are made and evidence is destroyed. Call today to learn more.

30 years

20%
Brain Injury 10%

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is sudden damage to the brain caused by a blow or jolt to the head. Common causes include car crashes, falls, sports injuries, and assaults. Injuries can range from mild concussions to severe permanent brain injury.

10%
Wrongful Death 10%

Before saying anything else, we want you to know that our hearts go out to you and your entire family in the midst of this profoundly painful and distressing situation. We want you to know that we care deeply about your situation and are here to help

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Contingency

25%-40%

Retainer

Always


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Licenses

Licensed in California for 30 years

State: California

Acquired: 1996

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Washington for 33 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 1992

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

Phillips Law Offices

305 Railroad Ave, Suite 5, Nevada City, CA, 95959-2633

Phillips Law Offices

57 West Ponderosa, Blairsden- Graeagle, CA, 96103

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D. Michael Phillips's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.6 /5.0

21 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (21) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 7 reviews | Professionalism

Posted by anonymous | April 02, 2020 | DUI & DWI

DO NOT USE THIS ATTORNEY, FIND ONE WHO CARES!!

I used Michael for a DUI case. When I first called he made it sound like everything was going to be alright and seemed like a stand up genuine guy who cared. After I made my first payment he kept me informed by having me sign the usual court papers. But as I asked him for further advice he would give... me unsure answers and made me basically do most of the research about what I needed to do myself. Later on he would call me and ask me why I have not done something that he never told me about! When I asked him about it he said I should have known anyway......then as I started to make progress on classes he basically told me that his job was done and all he needed to do was help with the plea signing. He didn't try to argue my case or help me with advice at all. He's one of those lawyers that once he gets your money he will go to court for you and plead guilty just to get the case over with and move on. It's quick money for him. Basically he seems caring to get your money then all that goes out the window. He always sounds eager to hang up the phone when your talking with him like he is not interested. I asked him if he knew the judge well , he said yes then when all is said and done he says i better hurry with my requirements because the judge is a cranky guy...?Michael is one of those lawyers you read about or hear about that just wants your money. And he is not cheap either!!! I'm sorry for ranting but this guy made me feel very angry and feel like I wasted thousands!! My advise, find someone who cares!!!

D. Michael Phillips

Replied last April 02, 2020

I am very proud to have been able to attend law school at Santa Clara University. While there, I was instilled with the importance of service to others, ethics, and the highest standard of professionalism. I carry those values with me every day nearly 30 years later. When a client hires me to be their lawyer, there is no higher compliment than that expression of trust- and I never lose sight of that. At my law office we do the very best we can for each client and I’m pleased by the number of referrals we receive from past clients and other attorneys. However, I certainly know that not everyone might feel that his or her expectations were met. Oftentimes, I will receive a call from a person wanting to "fire" their lawyer and hire another one. I always ask if they have discussed the issue with their current lawyer and given them an opportunity to correct the problem. Almost always the answer is, "no". Any one one of us would appreciate that chance - and I’m certainly no different. So I will encourage the person to call the lawyer, go into their office, and have an honest discussion about their concerns. I don’t know a single attorney who would not make a concerted effort to rectify the problem. I would encourage this person to call me directly, and then I would certainly make every effort to improve and correct the issue. A lawyer's duty is, to the best of their ability, to try and get the very best result possible for the client under the facts of the particular case whether by plea bargain or trial; To explain at all steps of the process what the client’s options are and the strengths and weakness of the case; To be available to answer all questions. In a word, as the Rules of Professional Responsibility demand, to zealously represent the client. Lastly, although I strongly support consumer information sites such as this one - it is only a starting point. To get an accurate picture, start by reviewing the lawyer's web site, call and meet the lawyer in person, ask bailiffs or clerks at the courthouse who they would hire, and maybe go and actually watch the attorney in court. Most good attorneys are in court several days a week and would welcome the opportunity to shine. Best regards, Michael Phillips

Posted by Ricardo | October 29, 2018 | Social Security Disability

Social Security / Disability issue

I left a voicemail and email message at his office, after hours on Friday night, Mr. Phillips called me on Saturday morning. He was very professional and asked if I could send him the paperwork received so he could review it. He said he would call me back on Monday. Today (Monday) he called me after... reviewing the paperwork the SS department had sent. He went ahead and provided me about a 1/2 hour of free and excellent information regarding the issue my cousin was having. He explained how my cousin had a very good case and how at this point there would be no reason to pay or attempt to pay for a lawyer, since this is a very good case. He also explained how the Legal aspects of Social Security and getting legal representation worked. He then said If for any reason the appeal is lost, he can then step in. Mr. Phillips was very, very detailed with me, he provided great insight and information that I could not get anywhere else, he is very knowledgeable and caring! For me this is is Gold! It was a breathe of fresh air. I would highly, very highly recommend Mr. Phillips to anyone. I have nothing but praise for his professionalism, but most of all what came across was his honesty and caring! Thank you Mr. Phillips!

Posted by anonymous | July 01, 2015 | Criminal Defense

So thankful

I was so thankful that Michael did all of the legal scary stuff for me and I only had to go to court once at the end! He got me out of work duty or more jail time.....big one for me! Also he offered to esponge the charge for me when the 3 year probation is up.....I would recommend him to anyone! Th...anks, MV

Posted by J.T. | May 14, 2015

So thankful

Michael and his staff are professional, personable, and efficient. They kept me informed through each step of my legal process and are very accessible and easy to work with. I am so very thankful for the excellent service I have received from them. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone in... need of representation.

Posted by anonymous | February 08, 2012 | Contracts & Agreements

Would not recommend Michael Phillips - Terrible bedside manner, sloppy with the details, extremely unprofessional

While a knowledgeable lawyer, Michael Phillips has no empathy or concern for his clients. His bedside manner is brusque, condescending and impatient. He does nothing to guide you through the process and never provides a straight answer. He does not coach you on how you should prepare your information... or case and is extremely sloppy with the details - very unprofessional. Contracts include typos along with missing and incorrect information. Find someone else who cares about you and the outcome of your case.

See All Client Reviews

D. Michael Phillips's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse D. Michael
Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Personal injury lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"D. Michael Phillips is an excellent attorney. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and highly respected in the legal community."

Ali Ebrahimzadeh headshot
Ali Ebrahimzadeh

Unknown lawyer | Jan 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Paul Nathan Phillips headshot
Paul Phillips

Personal injury lawyer | Dec 22

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Leigh Gretchen Fleming headshot
Leigh Fleming

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an experienced, highly skilled, attorney who I have seen gracing courtrooms across many counties. He is extremely knowledgable, passionate, and an all-around nice person. I strongly endorse Michael."

Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington headshot
Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Travis Ashley Newton headshot
Travis Newton

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Dorsett. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Brad Michael Micklin headshot
Brad Micklin

Administrative law lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Dorsett Phillips is an experienced attorney whose participation and comments in Avvo show his commitment to serving clients as well as his level of experience. He is an excellent attorney that I recommend wholeheartedly"

John Andrew Campanella headshot
John Campanella

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

Unknown lawyer | Apr 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

George Fredrick Mueller headshot
George Mueller

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Conscientious, very hardworking and extremely dedicated, it is well-known that Mr. Phillips is an excellent trial attorney who is a tremendous asset to the DUI Defense Bar community. Any one in need who hires this superb attorney will know he or she is in capable hands. For a number of known reasons, I am honored to endorse this fine lawyer."

Christopher John McCann headshot
Christopher McCann

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Phillips is an extremely bright and talented DUI and criminal defense lawyer in Nevada City as demonstrated by his membership in the California DUI Lawyers Association and the National College of DUI Defense. If you have a case in Nevada City, you need someone who knows that area and I would highly recommend Mr. Phillips."

Keith John Bruno headshot
Keith Bruno

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Dorsett's work wholeheartedly. As a lawyer, if I were to get in trouble (a DUI) I would be extremely discerning about who would represent me. If this happened in Nevada City, Dorsett would be my first call"

John Joseph VanDervoort headshot
John VanDervoort

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am Joe Vandervoort nicknamed "duiking"..www.duiking.com Ive practiced criminal defense 37 years in the Butte County, with the last 18 specializing in DUI/DMV only . I once had multiple offices with as many as a dozen lawyers working for me. I recognize a really good lawyer when I see them in action and I have seen Michael , on numerous cases in several counties . Once I had a client in Butte County on a DUI case that he also represented in Nevada County on some other type of criminal matter, and we worked together for the benefit of the client in both counties . If I were to get in trouble in Nevada County or that area I would CERTAINLY contact Michael. I have referred clients arrested in that area to him who were very satisfied with his representation. ."

Robert Louis Miller headshot
Robert Miller

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mr. Phillips is known for the high quality of his work, and we know each other through professional organizations which show the commitment that lawyers show to their clients. Truly an excellent attorney in every way."

William C. Makler headshot
William Makler

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Being an effective DUI lawyer requires one to stay on top of the law and science surrounding the topic. Mr. Dorsett shows that he is committed to doing so. In fact, he is a very strong advocate for his clients. I endorse this DUI lawyer's work."

Thomas Victor Wallin headshot
Thomas Wallin

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"As a member of NCDD, Mr. Phillips knows DUI defense. He does a good job representing his clients and works hard to ensure the best possible outcome in his cases. I endorse this lawyer's work."

Okorie Okorocha headshot
Okorie Okorocha

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"There is no better criminal defense lawyer in Nevada City, period. Hands down. No questions asked. If I ever need representation in Nevada City, I would personally hire Mr. Phillips."

Amy Treanor Morell headshot
Amy Morell

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is one of the most knowledgeable DUI attorneys in the state. He is a true fighter for his clients rights. Any client will be in excellent hands with Michael defending them."

View All Endorsements
Paul Nathan Phillips headshot
Paul Phillips

Elder law lawyer

Michael Thomas Erpino headshot
Michael Erpino

DUI and DWI lawyer

Jon Martin Pettis headshot
Jon Pettis

DUI and DWI lawyer

Leigh Gretchen Fleming headshot
Leigh Fleming

DUI and DWI lawyer

Brad Michael Micklin headshot
Brad Micklin

Family lawyer

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Criminal defense lawyer

John Andrew Campanella headshot
John Campanella

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Mott Brewer headshot
Michael Brewer

DUI and DWI lawyer

Robert Little headshot
Robert Little

DUI and DWI lawyer

Richard Orville Middlebrook headshot
Richard Middlebrook

DUI and DWI lawyer

Shannon Nicole Wiezorek headshot
Shannon Wiezorek

DUI and DWI lawyer

James Earl Wasson headshot
James Wasson

DUI and DWI lawyer

Paul S. Geller headshot
Paul Geller

DUI and DWI lawyer

Peter Francis Iocona headshot
Peter Iocona

DUI and DWI lawyer

Terry Alan Wapner headshot
Terry Wapner

DUI and DWI lawyer

Christopher John McCann headshot
Christopher McCann

DUI and DWI lawyer

Adam Laurence Pearlman headshot
Adam Pearlman

DUI and DWI lawyer

Jon William Woolsey headshot
Jon Woolsey

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Albert Richmond headshot
Michael Richmond

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.6 (Superb)

Honors

2017

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

Clients Choice Award, AVVO

2015

Accredited A+, Better Business Bureau

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers

2013

Peer Court Mentor, Nevada County Bar Association

2013

Certificate of Completion, Consumer Attorneys of California

2013

Certifcate of Completion, Consumer Attorneys of California

2013

Certificate of Completion, American Association for Justice

2013

"SUPERB" Attorney Rating, AVVO.com National Attorney Rating System

2012

"SUPERB" Attorney Rating, AVVO.com National Attorney Rating System

2012

Certificate of Completion, Consumer Attorneys of California

2011

"SUPERB" Attorney Rating, AVVO.com National Attorney Rating System

2010

Certification of Completion, Summer Session, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2010

Certification of Completion, Winter Session, National College for DUI Defense

2008

Certification, Advanced DUI Seminar, National College for DUI Defense

2007

Certification of Completion, Winter Session, National College for DUI Defense

2007

Certification, National Associational of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2007

Certification of Completion, Advanced DUI Seminar, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice

2007

Certificate of Completion, Advanced DUI Seminar, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice

2007

Defending Marijuana DUI, Lorman

2006

Certificate of Completion, Advanced DUI Seminar, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice

2006

Certificate of Completion, Advanced DUI Seminar, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

1998

Delegate, CA State Bar Association

1997

Delegate, CA State Bar Association

1996

Past President, Nevada County Bar Association

1995

Delgate & Committee Member, California Bar Association

1987

Best Oral Advocate, Santa Clara Law School

1983

Dean's List, CSULB

Work Experience

1998 - Present

Principal, Phillips Law Offices

1992 - 1997

Public Defender, Snohomish County Defender Association

1990 - 1992

Law Clerk, Judicial Clerkship

1987 - 1989

Law Clerk, Sixth District Appellate Project

Associations

2015 - Present

The National Trial Lawyers

member

2010 - Present

United States District Court for the Eastern District of California

Admitted to practice

2004 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2002 - Present

California DUI Lawyers Association

Member

2002 - Present

American Association for Justice

Member

2002 - Present

Consumer Attorneys of California

Member

1997 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Member

1996 - 1996

Nevada County Bar Association

Past President

Sample of Legal Cases

P v C.H.

DUI Dismissed

P v D. K.

No Jail or Prison on Felony DUI

P v J.H.

Not Guity at Trial

P v M. S.

Not Guity at Trial

P v L. B.

Felony DUI with Injury: No prison or jail

P v M. D

DUI Murder Dismissed

P v R. M.

"3 strikes" Murder Jury Trial:

P v J. R.

"3 Strikes" Jury Trial 8 counts burglry 1%

P v Mc K

DUI Dismissed

P v T F

Jury Trial: Case Dismissed

P v G.Z

Juvenile DUI

See More Legal Cases

Education

2013

American Association of Justice

Seminar

2013

Consumer Attorneys of California

Seminar

2012

Consumer Attorneys of California

Seminar

2010

National College of DUI Defense

Seminar

2009

National College of DUI Defense

Seminar

1987

Santa Clara Univ SOL

JD - Juris Doctor

1983

California St Univ Long Beach

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2014

Law Day

Fourth Amendment, Search and Seizure

2013

Law Day

Know Your Legal Rights

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline 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.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution