John Ryan | Visalia Criminal Lawyer

I had a client who was charged with two DUIs, each in a separate county. I took both to trial, and got not guilty verdicts on both cases. Another was a child welfare case. The county wanted to terminate my client's parental rights. I took the case to trial and my client was granted therapeutic reunification. In another case, I got a judgment for my client that the house she had rented for 20 years belonged to her. The list could go on.

I would say that responsiveness to clients is paramount. My staff and I make it a point to stay in close contact with our clients. I would say that attention to detail is another important factor. Every case is different. To be successful, you can't take a "cookie cutter" approach to cases.

The first is integrity. For me, the client's interests come first. If I believe a client is better off going in a direction that doesn't involve my services, then I without fail advise the client to go that way. Recourse to the law and lawyers should almost always be a last resort. It's always best for people to work out their differences themselves. But, when a lawyer's services are needed, then the client needs a zealous advocate who will take the time to understand his or her needs and really go for getting the best result possible in court, and always in keeping with the letter and spirit of the ethical rules.

I would say that it definitely helps to know the judges and the prosecutors - how they look at things and what sort of things they find important. Many times in criminal cases you prepare hard for the defense while keeping your eye on the ultimate sentence. There are things that a client can do while defending the case to get a better deal. I understand that process very well. In family law, knowing the other lawyers is a big help. I've managed to save clients lots of time and money by simply having a relationship of professional trust with opposing counsel.

I provide a free 15 minute phone consultation. I provide all the information about the law pertaining to the case that I have during that conversation.

I need to know generally what the case is about and where we're at in the court process, if one has started.

There are many fine attorneys in the area. I think that what distinguishes me from the others is that I take a very pro-active approach in finding the right solution for my client. Again, no cookie-cutters allowed. My job is to solve my client's legal problems. So, whatever that takes I do. I think that others tend to fall into habits and treat all cases alike. But a DUI isn't just another DUI, for example. It's a unique case and everything needs to be looked at and considered in order to find the best solution.

I would say that the most rewarding thing for me is the quiet satisfaction of knowing I did my best, and that my client is better off for hiring me.

I have a family, with grown kids. I have a dog who loves his walks everyday. I read extensively about all sorts of things. I'm something of an amateur historian. I love to take long walks on the beach, in the mountains, and so forth.

Yes. I am active in the State Bar's outreach to members with addiction issues. I also am active in a local outreach for drug addicts and alcoholics.

• Member, Tulare County Bar Association (2010-Present)
  
  Member, State Bar of California (1994-Present)