Barry M. Karl Attorney at Law

Guarding your freedoms.

This lawyer is licensed to practice in California and has no record of discipline from the California bar association.*

Firm Overview

My firm's focus is on providing each client with the best defense and advice possible.

Example cases

I handled a death penalty case where my client was accused of killing an Oakland Police Officer. After the defense case, the prosecution offered my client a plea to second degree murder.

Main Office

Main
620 Jefferson Avenue
Redwood City CA 94063

Phone

(650) 366-6789

Fax

(650) 363-1218

Fees

Free Initial Consultation?

Generally, the initial consultation is free.

Services Offered For Fixed Fees?

Any fixed-priced service or fee would depend on the type of case and the complexity of the case.

Hourly Rates

$350.

Office Information

Office Hours

Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Emergency After Hours

Yes

How did your firm decide on the primary area of practice(s)?

In a modern industrial culture such as ours, everyone's privacy is being eroded unless someone is willing to stand up to authority. I believe my practice of criminal law allows me to stop authority's erosion of these privacy rights. In addition, I believe police and prosecutors are often overzealous in applying criminal sanctions.

What is your firm's point of view regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

It is very important that everyone knows and understands their rights. Client self-education can be very helpful but generally the reason a client seeks legal advice is because he or she wishes to entrust their freedom to a qualified professional.

Is your firm willing to review documents prepared by clients?

I am willing to review documents prepared by clients but I also hope that the client is willing to listen to my advice.

Is your firm willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

I would be willing to coach clients in some circumstances--but clients should be aware of the substantial pitfalls of self-representation.

Barry M. Karl

Legal Aid Society, Juvenile Rights Division (Brooklyn, New York), 1978-1980.
Los Angeles County Public Defender (Los Angeles, California), 1980-1995.
Private Practice, 1995-Present.

My extensive experience in criminal law enables me to spot complex legal issues in order to help my clients get the best results possible.

I have tried more than 150 jury trials and believe that my unique strength is in getting to the heart of the issue and exploiting the weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

I am firm yet respectful while zealously protecting your rights.

Personal interests:

I enjoy watching college basketball and discussing politics.

License

Bar Number: 76953
California , 1977

Education

New York University School of Law
LL.M. , 1978
New York, NY
Criminal Justice
Pepperdine University School of Law
J.D. , 1977
Malibu, CA
Law Review
University of California, San Diego
B.A. , 1974
La Jolla, CA
History

* Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the state agency that licenses lawyers. Any past disbarments and suspensions (with possible exceptions for minor violations or nonpayment of dues, in our discretion) will be indicated accordingly in the badge. Member attorneys are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any state licensing agency.