Jennifer Gerstenzang

Criminal defense Attorney at San Diego, CA

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Best in the Business

5 1/2 Stars. Its always a pleasure to engage a professional who delivers excellence. No two cases are alike, but you will find no one better qualified to represent you to achieve the best possible outcome. I engaged Gerstenzang to tie off an unusual case with a long history, and she delivered results with Expert understanding of the law Experience, skills and know-how Advisory, insight and guidance of strategies and tradeoffs Confidence in court rules and procedures Professional character and ethical integrity

Legal Coaching is a great solution

About Jennifer

Learn Jennifer’s areas of practice.

Practice area

Criminal defense

100%

Jennifer Gerstenzang is a dedicated advocate for her clients. She is passionate about her work and is committed to defending the accused. She is tenacious, and will not stop fighting for her clients until the best possible result has been achieved. She is not afraid of hard work and investigating every angle of a case. She knows from experience that things are not always as they appear, and the officer's initial judgment almost never tells the whole story.

Jennifer knows it is important to think about how her clients' experiences while their case is in the criminal justice system. She is passionate about providing access to justice and has established creative services such as legal coaching to help those in need obtain affordable options when trying to prepare for court.

If you are looking for an attorney who will truly listen and give you the personal attention you need, call Ms. Gerstenzang today.

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Licensed for 11 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 2011

Updated 09/09/2022

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

Contact Jennifer

San Diego Public Defender's Office

450 B Street

San Diego, CA

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

47 customer reviews

5 Star

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Posted by anonymous | July 10, 2019

Best in the Business

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Posted by Vicki | May 3, 2019

Legal Coaching is a great solution

When I needed laser focus legal advice Jennifer helped provide the answers through her coaching service. If you are looking to get assistance from a legal professional w/o hiring a full priced attorney I highly recommend this approach. It's a great way to get exactly what you need.

Posted by anonymous | May 2, 2019

Jennifer Gerstenzang

In 2017 I was fresh out of college and submerged in a new relationship with someone who I thought was right for me. Time would tell that this wasn’t the case; We were detrimental to each other. Both of us had deep routed issues and a reliance on alcohol. In an emotionally abusive and physically draining relationship, I found myself in a dark place. The longer I stayed the worse it got and the more I spiraled. The constant stress, drinking, dissatisfaction, and torment became the norm for me. I thought these were the hardships of a relationship - that it was what everyone experienced. Naive and new to the world of, not only dating, but being openly gay and with someone of the same sex, I quickly lost myself. I let this partner lead the way. That way led me to some legal issues. I ended up in a great deal of trouble and I had to reach out to my parents for guidance. We heard of Jennifer through a family friend. Jennifer not only gave me professional direction through this predicament, but she also gave me amazing personal advice. I’ve viewed Jennifer as more than just a lawyer; She is an individual to look up to. I’ve always seen lawyers as stern workers just trying to get their job done and win a case. Jennifer is unlike most lawyers. She has exceeded my expectations. Not only does she care about winning your case, but she actually cares about your well-being. Jennifer is extremely understanding and truly wants you to live your best life moving forward. She sees both sides of a story and does everything she can to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome. Jennifer spent over an hour with me, not only discussing the legal issues and the actions we must take moving forward, but also discussing the potential personal issues which led me to this place and the life style changes I could choose to make moving forward. Along the way, Jennifer simplified things for me that I didn’t quite understand. She never steered me toward one side or another on how the case may go. She made sure we were aware of ALL the possible outcomes. She made recommendations for therapists/life coaches - both of which I took and had great results. Jennifer herself could be a life coach! She was very good about checking in and staying with us through a long year of seeing where this case would lead. With Jennifer’s recommendations and advice, I took massive action to change the course of my life. I am almost a year sober now, regularly seeing a therapist, in a new and better paying job, and in a healthy new relationship with trust and 100% openness. My lifestyle changes and Jennifer’s help created the BEST possible outcome for me. The case was rejected and I feel incredibly grateful to have had such a great lawyer. I’ve reconnected with my family and I am proud to say I’m in a much better place now. I highly recommend Jennifer to anyone seeking legal advice or guidance. This is especially directed toward young female professionals. Jennifer is someone who can relate to you, care for you, and ultimately help you to get it together and move forward. I don’t believe I would have the same results if we had went with a different lawyer. I have a new life and a second chance due to Jennifer Gerstenzang.

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Posted by anonymous | April 30, 2019

A beacon of light in the darkness

Being away from home, our daughter lost her way and got into legal trouble after graduating from college. It was a very dark time and we did not know where to turn. On the advice of a friend, we hired Jennifer Gerstenzang. Jennifer led 2 very frightened parents and their daughter down the path to legal redemption. Jennifer was always there to listen if we had questions. At times, we forgot she was acting as our counsel, as she always showed great compassion and kindness, two things you don't always see in a lawyer. Jennifer had advised that our daughter seek counseling (which she did) and kept up with her progress as she turned her life around. The charges were dropped and I am proud to say that today our daughter is living a very happy and productive life. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you Jennifer!

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Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2019

You won't find any better; Best lawyer!

I recently found myself in need of a criminal defense attorney, and didn't know where to start. After searching online I came across a review on Jennifer Gerstenzang. I was struck about her excellent legal abilities and also the comments describing her as a very caring individual. And indeed she is. When I first talked to her on the phone I immediately had the feeling to be talking to the right person, right lawyer. She was warm, caring, patient, compassionate and very knowledgeable about my legal situation and immediately reassured me that things were not as bad as my imagination had led me to believe. From the very beginning to the end Jennifer made sure I understood the entire process, best and worst case scenarios, and what my options were. Throughout the entire process, Jennifer followed through with every detail, and kept me to date. I'm so grateful to have met her and for all what she did related to my case. She is amazing and so competent, professional and one of the kindest person I know. She is excellent in court and I highly recommend her.

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Posted by Eric | February 22, 2019

Legal process consulting service--such an important part of it!

When our daughter ran into some serious legal trouble, we did not know who to turn to our how to find the best representation for her. And we did not know to what extent we needed to go to make sure she was taken care of. A lawyer friend referred us to Jenny G, who has a service to guide people from arrest through the early parts of the legal process. Her clear advice really helped us know what to do next. I also appreciated that her advice was tailored to our daughter's specific predicament. Her guidance not only saved us time and money, but it eased our minds and helped us know what to do next in the process. I highly recommend Jennifer Gerstenzang to anyone in a similar situation.

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Posted by anonymous | December 7, 2018

Great Defense Lawyer

First of all, I want to thank Atty. Gerstenzang for helping me succeed in taking my motion to modify my 5 years formal probation to informal probation which was almost impossible because its only been six months since I started my formal probation but we made it possible and succeeded. She was very organized and knowledgeable. What I liked the most from her was her sincerity to her profession where she will spend a lot of time to write and present our argument in the most persuasive and realistic way which made it very powerful. I would highly recommend her to anybody who needs to hire a great defense attorney that will be on your side from the beginning until the end...Thank you very much. It was an honor working with you!!!

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Posted by Michele | November 12, 2018

Very informative for a family trying to help a mentally ill and chemically addicted brother.

I paid Jennifer for an initial, one-hour, consulting session for legal advice pertaining to a legal matter specifically in San Diego, CA. Jennifer was very responsive and we arranged to have a video conference call because I am located in another state. Jennifer provided more information and sound legal counseling in one hour than my family had received in the previous few years. We consulted specifically about my brother who is living homeless on the streets of San Diego. He is mentally ill and suffers from drug addiction. He is not compliant and frequently goes in and out of the county jail. We asked some specific questions about his legal rights, the rights of the family, how to navigate the public defender office, and discussion of my proposed actions to attempt to intervene with the inmate's legal situation. Jennifer was compassionate and she demonstrated her expert knowledge of the challenges of this situation. The session was a good value.

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Posted by anonymous | September 20, 2018

Juvenile justice

Jennifer helped us tremendously in our difficult situation with our son by guiding us in the right direction for court proceedings which we were totally unfamiliar.Shw explained the details and help us navigate which eventually is so crucial in the overall mental wellbeing of a young child .Jennifer writes the details down,explains everything in simple understandable language and overall she shows a genuine care and concern for her clients. I would highly recommend her.

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Posted by Matt | September 19, 2018

Compassionate to clients, Tough in the court room!

If you are looking for a lawyer who is compassionate, thorough, who fights hard, does the extra, and will get the job done, Jennifer Gerstenzang is your lawyer. Sometimes the justice system can seem unfair, stacked against you, intimidating, and scary. I researched every single aspect of my case, went through every single outcome, and often times was very nervous about what could happen to me professionally. Every time I consulted with Jennifer, it was like a thousand lbs was lifted from my back. I always knew Ms. Gerstenzang had my best interests at heart, that she would fight for me, and that she was a professional. When faced with intimidating charges and a justice system I dont trust, these attributes were worth more than gold. I had a very unique case that would require 2 lawyers. With the addition of Jennifer Gerstenzang, I feel like my legal counsel was quadrupled. The amount of extra time and care that she took was something that every lawyer should strive for. From explaining every possible outcome to me via phone, or spending a day retracing everything that happened in person, Jennifer goes the extra mile. Watching Jennifer in court was a thing of beauty. Although she was compassionate and caring towards me as a client, her demeanor, focus, and toughness when dealing with a hard charging DA made me realize how much of an asset she was to my case. She battled very passionately and strategically! In the end, after all the time I spent agonizing and worried, everything played out just like Jennifer said it would. Over the course of 18 months, looking back, I was so glad Jennifer joined my counsel. FINALLY!!!!! It got resolved with a favorable outcome that I was happy with. Sometimes lawyers see clients and just a case, a job to do, or just another day in the office. Thats not Jennifer. She made me feel like I was not just some person in the system. Her compassion and generosity with her time made a situation that was extremely scary and intimidating something that I could manage, and in the end, her courtroom toughness and savvy paid off for me. If you find yourself in a situation where you need a piece of mind as well as an Ace in the courtroom, go to Jennifer Gerstenzang.

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Posted by Tammy | September 17, 2018

She gets results

Had a hard time getting ahold of and dealing with the MAU to get answers on what needed to be done. Jennifer asked the right questions and help us get the results we wanted. Thank you for being patient with me when I was stressing out.

Posted by anonymous | August 12, 2018

Dr.

Jennifer helped us with our son in Juvenile court. She went above and beyond to achieve the best legal outcome while ensuring that we all know what the options are and how the process works. Jennifer spent endless hours talking to our son, and negotiation with the district attorney office. She is legally knowledgeable, kind, compassionate, patient and friendly. I have met many lawyers but none of them had ALL these qualities while so deeply caring about our son. I would strongly recommend Jennifer to any friend or family in need of legal help.

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Posted by anonymous | July 17, 2018

You won't find better !!!

I recently found myself in need of a criminal defense attorney, and didn't know where to start. Besides all the legal issues, I was scared to death of what might happen to me if not well represented. After researching a number of attorneys in my area, in firms both large and small, I came across a review on Jennifer Gerstenzang. What struck me about her other than her excellent legal abilities, were the comments that described her as a very caring individual. Five minutes into the initial consultation, I knew I hit the jackpot! Jennifer was just who I was looking for. She immediately reassured me that things were not as bad as my imagination had led me to believe. She was warm, caring, compassionate, patient, and very very knowledgeable about my legal situation. Throughout the entire process, Jennifer followed through with every detail, and kept me up to date. Her competency as an attorney yielded me the best outcome I could have hoped for. My legal issue is now resolved, and I will always be grateful to Jennifer for her expertise, as well as treating me like family. I normally don't write reviews, but this woman deserves to be recognized. I fully and completely recommend Jennifer Gerstenzang for any criminal defense. She is a consummate professional, and one of the kindest people I've ever met.

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Posted by Steven | April 14, 2018

My ticket went away!

I recommend Jenny Gerstenzang without reservation. I had got one of those automated tickets for running a red light (which probably did happen). However, the City forgot to write the ticket amount, so I was never really clear about what or how to pay it. Eventually I found out they wanted me to pay $500, plus a $300 late fee assessment too. Not only did Ms. Gerstenzang manage to remove the late fee, she got the original ticket dropped too! She's professional and tireless and a very good communicator, so I highly recommend her.

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Posted by Lisa | March 29, 2018

Excellent Lawyer

Jennifer is amazing her commitment to really understanding her client and their specific needs was exactly what we needed in a lawyer and she delivered with her time her research and every attention to detail. She is excellent in court and I highly recommend her

Posted by anonymous | March 14, 2018

March 2018

Hired Miss Jennifer in Sept 2017, she was very personable, diligent and more than we could ask for. She explained things, expected things from us and the outcome was most favorable. Definitely would recommend her.

Posted by Anna | January 11, 2018

Excellent Service

Jennifer helped our son (23 years old) with his DUI. Because of her competent work,he's got the lowest court fine.Also Jennifer helped us understand all that we needed to do: pay the fine,sign up for all the required classes.She is our lawyer for life.

Posted by anonymous | December 18, 2017

The Best

I did something stupid that required a lawyer. I reached out to Jennifer and from the first phone call to the final resolution she was proactive, professional, compassionate and effective. Communication was exemplary and I did not have to pester to get replies. I would recommend Jennifer in a micro-second. I am extremely satisfied.

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Posted by anonymous | October 24, 2017

I Highly Recommend Jennifer Gerstenzang !

Hello, I hired Jennifer due to a recommendation from another traffic attorney I had used. I was wrongfully pulled over and accused of driving at high speed on the highway. The officer was making a guess that it was my car parked in a rest area, but he was wrong. I was charged with 3 violations, all of which I could've lost my license for. Jennifer prepared detailed facts for the first step, the DMV Hearing. At this hearing, I could've easily lost my license, but Jennifer, with the help of a student private investigator, presented the facts in such a manner that we had the DMV Hearing person smiling and agreeing with us. We won the DMV Hearing hands down, no loss of license. Next step was what the District Attorney wanted. They dropped 2 of the 3 charges, but still wanted me to take a plea of a "Wet Wreckless". Jennifer said we might beat it if we went to court, but that there's always a chance that the jury could side with the prosecution. My goal was not to lose my license because I was traveling the country during work and losing my license would've been severe to me. Jennifer informed me of everything I needed to know for me to make a good decision. She did not try to influence my decision. In the outcome, I did not lose my license and only had to take a 6 week class, which was the best option and outcome for me. Jennifer is warm, friendly and extremely good at answering your questions and presenting facts. She is professional and has integrity, which is a key factor in anyone I choose to work with. I recommend Jennifer to anyone who needs a good attorney, it was a great experience working with her.

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Posted by Tim | July 25, 2017

A great person, as well as a truly professional Lawyer!

After my first run in with the Court system, I reached out to Jennifer Gerstenzang to assist me in navigating my way through our complex legal system. I’m glad I did. Jennifer clearly explained to me what was going to happen, when it would happen, and what decisions I would have to make. More importantly, she had detailed knowledge of the Judges and Prosecutors and what they were likely to accept. This enabled her to tailor a settlement that suited the needs of me nd my family that would be acceptable to the court. Finally, Jennifer has maintained constant contact over the better part of a year since we met, making sure everything has been progressing on schedule and offering advice where needed, and obtaining an extension in one instance where it might be needed. True commitment from a true Professional! I would recommend her services to anyone in need of her services!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner and Lead Attorney
Gerstenzang Law
2015 - Present

Certified Post-Bar Law Clerk
San Diego County Public Defender
2011 - 2011

Deputy Public Defender
San Diego County Office Of The Public Defender
2011 - 2015

Certified Legal Intern
San Diego County Office Of The Public Defender
2010 - 2011

View all work experience

Education

California Western School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2011

Emory University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
2006

Legal Cases

NOT GUILTY OF SPEEDING 100 MPH
NOT GUILTY

Not Guilty Verdict speeding 51 mph in 35 mph zone
Not Guilty

Not Guilty Verdict on Petty Theft Charge And Finding Of Factual Innocence Granted
NOT GUILTY AND FACTUAL FINDING OF INNOCENCE GRANTED

View all legal cases

Associations

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member of the DUI Committee
2017 - Present

Free to Thrive
Volunteer Attorney for Vacatur Proceedings
2017 - Present

California Defense Bar Association
Member
2015 - Present

Lawyers Club of San Diego
Member
2015 - Present

San Diego Bar Association
Member
2015 - Present

North County Bar Association: Criminal Defense Section
Member
2015 - Present

National College of DUI Defense
Member
2013 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Awards

Best Lawyers
San Diego Business Journal
2016

Wiley W. Manuel Certificate For Pro Bono Legal Services
Board of Governors of the State Bar of California
2011

Publications

North County Lawyer Magazine
Getting Out Of Jail Almost Free: Pre-trial Release and Penal Code Section 1203.018
2017

Speaking Engagements

Continuing Legal Education at the North County Bar
Practicing Under the Influence: The Problem, Prevention and Treatment
2017

San Dieguito Academy Juniors and Seniors
Real-Life Applications of Your Constitutional Rights
2015

Public Defender Central Misdemeanor Certified Legal Intern Orientation
Misdemeanor Practice
2013

Attorney endorsements

Received (32)

Given (55)

Adam Hepburn

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is an incredible attorney. I worked with Jennifer years ago and she always stood out as someone with immense passion and dedication to her clients. She is a sharp, knowledgeable, and talented trial attorney. You can absolutely trust that you are in good hands when you hire Ms. Gerstenzang."

Ashley Arcidiacono

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jenny is an outstanding attorney. She genuinely cares for her clients. You see that right away because she is always willing to go the extra mile, without hesitation, to make sure her clients feel comfortable, informed and empowered. Jenny is also professional yet very down to earth, which makes her a pleasure to work with, as well. I endorse Jenny without reservation!"

Charles Millioen

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer and I worked together and frequently collaborated on cases. She is an amazing advocate for her clients, whether they be charged with a traffic infraction or a serious felony. I hope I get to work together with her again in the future!"

George Stein

DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is a 2nd generation lawyer who has superb legal skills and gives attention to details like no other. Her presence in the courtroom is amazing and she serves her clients well with her advanced legal skills, coupled with a good bedside manner. I endorse this lawyer!"

Troy Owens

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I had the pleasure of working with Jennifer. I was able to see her determination, passion, and was impressed by the lengths that she is willing to go to advocate for her clients! Those skills, when paired with her knowledge, make her a true force in the legal community!"

David Beyersdorf

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Based on her excellent responses to questions presented here, I endorse Ms. Gerstenzang."

Omar Nassar

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer is a wonderul attorney who will work tirelessly for her clients. She is fully dedicated to her clients' matters, and I endorse her without reservation."

Paul Batta

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I Ms. Gerstenzang is a great attorney who always strives to obtain the best possible outcome for her clients."

Dod Ghassemkhani

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Flemming

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is an amazing attorney. She deeply cares for her clients and offers premier legal representation. As such, she ALWAYS obtains favorable results. Bottom line, you're in wonderful hands if you retain her services."

Lawrence Taylor

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang is what is known in the profession as a "rising star" -- a gifted attorney who is clearly destined to be a leader in the DUI field. In this sense, it is perhaps a legacy: her father, a former Dean of the 1800-member National College for DUI Defense, is one of the brightest and most respected practitioners in the country. Based upon her professional performance to date, Jennifer is certain to follow in his footsteps. I would recommend this remarkable attorney without reservation."

Aryeh Leichter

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Helene Colin

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer's experience as a former Public Defender serves her well in her criminal defense practice. She is caring and passionate, and has a special interest in representing juveniles. I highly recommend Jennifer."

Larissa Bodniowycz

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer is the whole package. She's intelligent, compassionate, and a zealous advocate for her clients. Jennifer utilizes her strong understanding of criminal law and the criminal justice system to ensure her client's rights are protected and knows how to explain the law in a way that her clients can understand. I endorse Jennifer."

Wei Chou

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer is knowledgeable and experienced on a wide range of matters in criminal defense. She is an excellent attorney and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone."

Stanley Shar

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Other

"Jenny and I were classmates. She's a great lawyer and an even better person. I endorse this lawyer."

Shannon Englert

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jennifer Gerstenzang definitely knows criminal defense and criminal law. She has personally guided me on how to handle a criminal defense case, so I saw her knowledge of the law first hand. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking a criminal defense attorney."

William Christoph

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Gerstenzang is an excellent attorney who works very hard to achieve the best results for her clients."

Bart Kasperowicz

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Gerstenzang is one of a kind. Highly passionate about her clients' cases and deeply devoted to getting great results. I have personally worked with her on past defense cases and have witnessed her exceptionally high level of work-ethic. The results she has produced speak for themselves. I highly recommend her."