Theft Defense in Hamilton Township, NJ
Theft Crimes Attorney in Hamilton Township, NJ
Criminal Defense for Hamilton Township & Mercer County Residents
When you’re facing theft charges in Hamilton Township, the decisions you make in the first hours and days matter. The Law Office of Zapicchi & Liller, LLP is a New Jersey criminal defense firm that handles theft cases throughout Hamilton Township and Mercer County. Both founding partners, Aaron S. Liller and Mario D. Zapicchi, have been practicing law since 2010. They study each matter thoroughly before developing a strategy, and clients get direct access to a partner rather than being handed off to a less experienced associate.
Theft charges in New Jersey carry consequences that extend well beyond any sentence a court imposes. Acting early gives your defense the most room to work.
How Are Theft Charges Determined?
New Jersey measures theft offenses by the value of property or services allegedly taken. That value determines the degree of the charge, which court hears the case, and what penalties apply.
Theft under New Jersey law covers more than physically taking property. Shoplifting, theft by deception, receiving stolen property, and theft of services all fall under the theft statutes. Robbery is treated separately as a second-degree crime at minimum because it involves force or threat, and it can escalate to first degree depending on circumstances. The degree of the charge directly shapes the sentence range, applicable fines, and access to diversionary programs.
What You Risk with a Theft Conviction
A conviction, even for a disorderly persons theft offense, creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers, landlords, and professional licensing boards. Many theft offenses are treated as crimes involving moral turpitude under immigration law, a classification that carries particular weight in fields like retail, finance, and healthcare where trust is a hiring condition. For non-citizens, a conviction in this category can affect immigration status and may trigger deportation or inadmissibility proceedings. Collateral consequences often outlast any sentence the court imposes.
Theft Charges We Defend in Hamilton Township, NJ
The Law Office of Zapicchi & Liller, LLP handles theft defense in Hamilton Township and throughout Mercer County. The charge types vary, and so do the defense questions each one raises.
Shoplifting
New Jersey’s shoplifting statute reaches beyond taking an item out of a store. Concealing merchandise, altering price tags, and underringing at checkout all qualify. The defense often turns on what surveillance footage actually shows and what the evidence says about intent.
Theft by Deception
These charges arise when someone allegedly obtains property through false impressions, fraud, or misrepresentation. Establishing what the defendant actually knew and communicated is central to any defense.
Receiving Stolen Property
The prosecution must show the defendant knew, or should have known, the property was stolen. Knowledge, not just possession, is the element the state has to prove.
Theft of Movable Property
This covers the unlawful taking of tangible items, whether from a person or a location. Intent to deprive the owner is a required element; the state must prove the defendant meant to take it, not merely that property changed hands.
The Theft Case Process in Mercer County
Knowing where your case is headed helps you make informed decisions. Statements made to police or store security before an attorney is present can affect the outcome, so early contact with a lawyer matters.
Municipal Court: Disorderly Persons Charges
Disorderly persons theft charges are heard in Hamilton Municipal Court. Those cases may be eligible for conditional dismissal, a diversionary program that suspends proceedings and, upon completion of program conditions, results in dismissal with no conviction. It’s available to first-time offenders in municipal court and is a once-in-a-lifetime option in New Jersey.
Superior Court: Indictable Charges
Indictable theft charges are transferred to Mercer County Superior Court. First-time offenders charged with third- or fourth-degree indictable crimes may be eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), which suspends prosecution and can result in dismissal upon successful completion. PTI applications must be filed no later than the Initial Case Disposition Conference in most cases, so timing is critical. Prior use of any diversionary program disqualifies a defendant from either option.
We study each matter thoroughly before committing to a strategy, and because both partners work collaboratively on every file, theft cases benefit from more than one legal perspective at each stage. If no satisfactory resolution is reached earlier, the case proceeds to trial, where the state must prove every element of theft beyond a reasonable doubt.
Contact Us About Your Hamilton Township Theft Case
The earlier an attorney is involved in a theft case, the more options may remain open. Diversionary programs have timing requirements, and pre-charge guidance can shape how a case develops before proceedings formally begin. The Law Office of Zapicchi & Liller, LLP gives clients individual attention and builds a defense grounded in the actual facts of their situation.
Clients Who Came Back More Than Once
One reviewer noted this was their third matter with Mario. That's not luck, that's trust built case by case.
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Mario is an exceptional attorney that not only listened and cared but also represented with confidence.Joe Palomba
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It truly felt like we had a top tier concierge service guiding us to closing day.Mike Dello
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Second time using this law firm for real estate and both times I had a fantastic experience!Siena G
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He got my case dropped; he’s an amazing guy even if he’s not your paid attorney.K D
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He was honest, straightforward, and always answered when I reached out.Robert Breeze
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Really went above and beyond to make sure we closed.Lauren Hernandez
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They were responsive, timely, and very professional.Joseph Kelleher
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The entire process was smooth and well organized from start to finish.Michele Han
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We are out-of-state owners, but everything went smoothly and efficiently.Irena Kocol
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The team was professional, responsive, and incredibly thorough throughout the entire process.Natalie Diamond
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He truly goes above and beyond for his clients, always making sure you feel supported and informed during stressful times.Nick Fryar
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Lindsay was incredibly helpful, responsive, and on top of every detail.Erik Liepins
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He was not only highly skilled but also compassionate and reassuring.jik dzh
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They were knowledgeable, responsive, and made sure every detail was handled properly.Robert Wetzel
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The Law Offices of Zapicchi & Liller did a great job helping us as first-time home buyers to understand the process and protect our interests.Jim Civale
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This was a complex transaction with a number of moving parts, and Aaron handled it with precision, professionalism, and total command of the process.Joseph Dolce
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An awesome experience with a great team of people at this law firm.Loretta Ashley
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We highly recommend this firm if you're considering selling or buying a home.Michael Delpome
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The team was incredibly helpful and responsive throughout the entire process.Patricia Masi
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Lindsay went above and beyond to be accommodating and helpful.Carl Calderone
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It was a really smooth experience.kush shah
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Lindsay specifically was such a pleasure to work with.Breanna Doane
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Communication was top notch and to have him work on my case took all of my stress out of it.jaeger996X
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My experience with him was awesome and, yes, I won my case.Shanay Bryan
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They are responsive, give great advice and will advocate for you every step of the way.Lui G
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From start to finish, their team was professional, organized, and incredibly responsive.Rick McLaughlin
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Mario and his team were wonderful, patient, and understanding, and made sure we were aware of every change in the case.Courtney Bush
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The experience was exceptional from start to finish.Guy Armour
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We used them for both the purchase and sale of our properties.John Peterson
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We had a very good experience with this team.Lisa Peterson
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From the moment I first contacted their office, I felt an immediate sense of care and genuine dedication that completely set them apart.Nyoka N Parchment
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Zapicchi & Liller LLP made our dream home purchase smooth, clear, and stress-free.Irina Asinski
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Sandy was super helpful and explained everything in ways that made sense.Justin
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Highly recommend this attorney and his firm.Art Petrosian
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They made everything such a breeze with purchasing our home.Cait Whitemore
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Everyone was professional, responsive, and really made the process feel smooth and stress-free.Sonia Gracia
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The whole team at Zapicchi & Liller are so personable, knowledgeable, and put their clients first!Marisa Robinson
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Had a seamless experience with them while selling my property.Josh N
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Mr. Zapicchi got my son’s speeding ticket reduced to zero points.arkleston
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I have great appreciation for Mario Zapicchi.Michael Mahon
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Got me out of jail time; I got off with fines.Patrick Lilly
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They helped me find which type of lawyer I needed for my case even though they don't offer those types of services.antonio ortiz
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Awesome 🔥 thank you again. Couldn’t have asked for better representation!Demarcus Johnson
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Every phone call is met with professionalism and personal care.Kimberly Suarez
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If you get in trouble in Bordentown and need help, you gotta go see Mario.Steve Harris
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I had the pleasure of working with Mario Zapicchi to handle a traffic ticket, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional.Umit
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Anytime I called him or texted him, he was quick to respond. Highly recommend him!michael prezioso
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He went above and beyond for my case to get dismissed.Raymond “Krazy” San Lorenzo
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Very helpful and knowledgeable. Went to great lengths to ensure my best defense.Shannon Stegmaier
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His communication throughout both were so helpful.Justyn Roderick
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Mr. Zapicchi not only got the case dismissed but cleared the entire situation from public records, this attorney is amazing.New Vision Remodeling
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Aaron, Sandy, and the team at Zapicchi & Liller are your unsung heroes working diligently behind the scenes.Jason Devino
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Mario is reliable and knowledgeable.khadar potter
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Aaron and team were very helpful and responsive.Gregory Leonberg Jr
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He definitely cares about his clients and did the best possible job representing me.Ashley Robnett
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Excellence and also thorough and pleasant to work with.Cindy Amato Dashko
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I want to thank Mario for doing such a great job and having the patience to go the extra mile.lelia mccants
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He took care of everything for me and was very fair about what he charged me!Dean Cartagena
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They saved me thousands of dollars and charged me very fairly for their top notch services.Deb P
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Insightful, informed, involved, informative. Awesome attorney.Gualberto Gonzalez
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He reassured me he had my back and he definitely followed through, literally the best hands down if you need a great criminal attorney.Erica Adams
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Very professional and the communication is priceless!Dee Dee
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Mario is one of, if not the best lawyer I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting.jon morrell
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I was very pleased with their help and their service!John B. Lewis
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Mario was so easy to work with, and his connections with all the different parties made everything go smoothly.MrColtonMartin
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Mario Zapicchi helped keep my license in New Jersey with traffic violations multiple times.Rohan Sarang
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Mario was super helpful and reassuring. You cannot beat that kind of service.Ade Ibikunle
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All of the staff were wonderful and made me feel valued and heard.Cassie Barrows
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He was responsive, attentive, knowledgeable, consistent, and confident.Nñe White
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I was very pleased with the way I was represented today in court.Shalane Brooks
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They remained in constant communication with me, provided me with all the information I needed and delivered on their promise.Stockton Bond
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I’ve been going to Mario for over four years now and I have to say, he’s by far the best lawyer that I’ve ever encountered.Gwyneth Perfect
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I will always recommend him to everyone I know because of his dedication and care for my ticket.Sabrina Ulshafer
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Mario was absolutely amazing throughout my case; he was very helpful and answered all my questions.hervens escarment
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He was always readily available whenever there was a question.miyopa little
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He really helped me and I would recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney!Katlin Riddle
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He’s a man of his words, no lawyer can guarantee the outcome of any case, but Mr. Zapicchi didn’t make me feel as if I didn’t stand a chance.Stubban Sound
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He was able to get me out of numerous charges and I would highly recommend!Celina Del Duca
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Thank you, Mario, for your awesome, detailed, quick solution to my New Jersey ticket matters.Samira Robinson
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I am grateful for his passion, dedication, and professionalism because that is hard to find.Kayla Hightower
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Had my speeding ticket on the NJ Turnpike, 93 mph, dropped to 0 points.Oleg Farniev
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Mr. Zappicchi assisted me with my divorce in a very kind manner.Vicki McDaid
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Mario and his team were incredibly professional and simply the best in the business.James Hagedorn
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I was unavailable and Mario represented me, and I could not be more pleased with the outcome!Erica Skribner
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I would highly recommend for a traffic violation.Mary Piciocchi
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Great experience! Highly recommend!Pavlo Onyskovets
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I would highly recommend him for any of your legal matters.Muhammad Talha
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Very nice, very well spoken, funny and gets the job done.Collin Cassarini
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By the time my case was in court, he had gotten me a no-points deal and a small fine from a much worse points ticket.Parth Patel
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He took time to explain the process to me and did what he promised.Sonia Akella
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Very professional and got points taken off.Jayquallin
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Helped me out through my struggle and no doubt he was coming through to beat my case as well, very reliable, ask for Mario.Jose Reyes
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He told me what he was going to do and made it happen.mark klosinski
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He was always quick to respond to our questions and helped us to get the best outcome possible!Nancy Padovano
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He explained clearly what possibilities may occur and did his very best to get me the outcome I asked for.Anthony Gonzalez
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He was always patient and never wavered from his word. Kept a calm, empathetic and confident demeanor.Stephanie Davis
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Mario is an excellent attorney who is truly professional and dependable.Kevin Ruppel
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Didn’t have to deal with court at all nor miss a day of work!El Presidente
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Got me the lowest possible cost for my ticket with no points.mike muce
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Mario was so great in helping me resolve a speeding ticket and helped get me down to a 0-point offense.Todd Martin
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Excellent lawyer, great person and does a great job.Carlos Cevallos
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Mario represented me and made sure I didn’t get any points for the violation, and all I had to pay was a $90 fine!Israel McCray
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This attorney went above and beyond to help me get my ticket dropped all the way down.Ce ce
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Mario is very professional and pleasant to work with.M. Y.
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They are super responsive and attuned to the needs of their clients.Anthony Vetrano
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He did an amazing job reducing my crazy 14 points to 4 points only and avoided suspending my license.Arshin Nef
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He got all of them taken care of; reduced drastically or dropped altogether in just a few weeks without us even needing to come back to New Jersey.Shanley Autz
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It was the best court experience I ever was involved in with the least amount of stress, especially during this COVID time.Sue Tonz
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Mario is a consummate professional, very accommodating and easy to relate to.Wayne Kohlmyer
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I appreciated the way you guys were fighting my case.Jude Charles
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Mario Zapicchi handled my case quickly, professionally, and at a fair price.Jay Green
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Mario Zapicchi is a very professional lawyer, no issues, very easy to work with.Alex Andrese
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This is the 3rd time he has helped my family out with traffic tickets and a more serious charge.Sheryl Orlen
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Mario handled everything very professionally and worked diligently to reduce the violation down to 0 points.Carmine
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Mario was absolutely amazing throughout my case. He’s very professional and trustworthy.Rosa Pineda
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He helped me tremendously by getting me the best deal possible!James Edwards
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Best lawyer I've ever seen; he will get the job done.Adam Meszaros
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He is always professional and communicated frequently to keep me informed.Bryan Rice
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They have been really helpful and always available.Hemal Patel
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Went out of his way to send me some info on a matter he took care of last year.Oscar Torres
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Works quick and efficient, great service.Joe C
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Mario Zapicchi is a very professional lawyer. Best prices around, hands down.Cesar Laboy
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I got arrested for marijuana and he handled my case perfectly!Tolga Gunaydin
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If you're looking for someone who knows their practice and will fight for you in court, Mario is your guy.Junior Brown
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Responds quickly to inquiries and is knowledgeable and strategic.Ariel Loza
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Attorney Mario works very quickly and effectively!Akshar Patel
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I entrust Mario with my most valued commodity: my son.Joseph Lombardo
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5 stars is not enough to rate these winners.Wilmage Canes Paul
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He was prompt, professional and highly educated on all laws/regulations.DaVaughn Brockett
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They did all the work and saved me from 2 tickets out of 3 with no points.Luis Felipe Tavarez Pepen
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One of the best attorneys I had the pleasure of ever working for me. Very affordable if you ask me.Brandon Walker
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Very responsive and answered all questions I had involving my case.Jeremy Rodriguez
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Highly recommend this lawyer for any traffic violations.Mast Pharmacy
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Mario was highly communicative, responsive and professional.Matthew Phillips
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I highly recommend him; he is very professional and reasonable at everything he does.Miguelina Rodriguez
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The absolute best help and legal services you could ever hope for, my attorney was with me every step of the way.Tyrell Walker
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If you want a lawyer that’s gonna fight your battle in court, please, please, look no further. Mr. Mario is your guy.SHERRY HALL
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He handled my son's speeding violations with great efficiency.William Ponton
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Out of all the attorneys who help our drivers across the lower 48 states, Mr. Zapicchi is one of the most professional and knowledgeable.J.B. Expedited
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He was extremely helpful! He always got back to me quickly with any information and kept me in the loop.Kira Wojtowicz
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Mario and his assistant are so easy to talk to. I feel like they're family.Kathleen Meszaros
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He had my best interest and communicated everything clearly and in a timely manner.Kash Xan
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He is very professional, responsive, and diligent.Sue Clarke
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He went above and beyond and made us feel at ease during a scary time.Denise Olaff
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My experience with Mario far exceeded my expectations.Ryan Cody
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Aaron stays with you from start to finish.Dan Okavage
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He was extremely patient, helpful, prompt, and no nonsense when dealing with the other lawyer.Lee Anne Aluotto
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I had a positive experience with Mario.Vicki Massa
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Mario is amazing. His skills and respect for his clients are second to none.Rich Holmak