Best Lawyers in San Mateo
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List of the best lawyers in San Mateo, United States
United States Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
Browse our 25 legal questions in United States and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
- Illegal use of images and blackmail
- I am an Epstein victim and my images were used to publise the case. As a victim illegal images were used for profit on pornography sites. I have been threatened with this images and harassed at my employment . I have had to flee the usa because of this harrassment... Read more โ
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Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)
I am sorry to hear you are experiencing this. Thank you for fighting back. You have several ways to stop the nonโconsensual use of your images and to hold the perpetrators accountable. Under federal law (18โฏU.S.C.โฏยงโฏ2261A) the...
Read full answer - DTV, LTR, O Visa and ability to keep working remotely
- Dear Sir or Madam, I am a 65-year-old United States citizen interested in relocating to Thailand on a long-term basis. I am seeking clarification on the most appropriate visa options for my situation. My financial profile is as follows: โข โโโโI receive a U.S. Government retirement pension of approximately USD... Read more โ
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Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)
Thaiโvisa options for a 65โyearโold U.S. retiree with pension, disability and partโtime income NonโImmigrant OโA (LongโStay Retirement) visa โ The current rule (Thai Immigration Bureau, 2023โ2024) allows the applicant to qualify either by (a) holding THB 800,000 (~ USD 23,000)...
Read full answer - NY- Is there any legal risk to me for private, non-threatening group-chat conversations that someone accessed without permission and then used maliciously?
- I am seeking legal guidance regarding an incident involving unauthorized access to my personal digital accounts and the subsequent misuse of private information. I inadvertently saved my personal login credentials on a shared workplace computer. Without my permission, a coworker accessed my Google Photos account and viewed screenshots of private... Read more โ
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Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)
The coworkerโs actions, not your mere possession of the screenshots, are the source of legal liability: unauthorized access to your Google Photos account breaches computer-misuse and privacy laws, viewing the private images can be a breach of confidence, and creating...
Read full answer
United States Legal Articles
Browse our 34 legal articles in United States written by expert lawyers.
- New York Climate Superfund Act Liability 2026 Guide
- This new US climate cost recovery law is retroactive and targets large historical greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters in energy, industrial, and logistics sectors as "responsible parties" for a $75 billion fund. Liability is strict: the government does not need to prove fault, negligence, or causation of specific climate harms, only... Read more โ
- NY 2026 Corp Tax: Thresholds & Franchise
- For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, New York businesses will only be required to make estimated tax payments if their expected New York tax (including any MTA surcharge) is at least $5,000, up from $1,000. Many small and some mid-sized New York corporations and S corporations... Read more โ
- Are Non-Competes Enforceable in New York?
- Non-competes are still legal in New York and most of the United States, but courts apply strict scrutiny and often refuse to enforce broad, form agreements. Governor Hochul vetoed New York's broad non-compete ban (often referenced as S4641A / S3100A) in December 2023, so as of my last update there... Read more โ
About Hiring a Lawyer in San Mateo, United States
Hiring a lawyer in San Mateo, United States involves several steps to ensure you find the right legal professional for your needs. Typically, the process starts with identifying the type of legal assistance required, such as family law, criminal defense, real estate, or personal injury. Once you know your area of need, you can begin researching local law firms or solo practitioners who specialize in that field. Many lawyers in San Mateo offer a free or low-cost initial consultation, where you can discuss your case, understand the lawyerโs experience, and learn about their fee structures. Always check that the lawyer is licensed to practice in California and is in good standing with the California State Bar.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are many situations where you may need a lawyer in San Mateo. Here are some common examples:
- Facing criminal charges or being under investigation
- Dealing with divorce, child custody, or other family law issues
- Buying or selling a home or other property
- Involved in a car accident or personal injury incident
- Starting, buying, or selling a business
- Contesting a will, handling probate, or estate planning
- Immigration issues
- Employment disputes, such as wrongful termination or discrimination claims
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Needing representation in a lawsuit, whether as a plaintiff or defendant
Lawyers can help by explaining your legal rights, negotiating on your behalf, preparing necessary documents, and representing you in court if needed.
Local Laws Overview
San Mateo is located in California and adheres to both state and local laws. Some legal areas that are especially relevant in San Mateo include:
- Landlord-Tenant Law: Local rent control rules in some cities, strict eviction protocols, and tenant protections beyond state requirements.
- Employment Law: Compliance with Californiaโs worker protection laws, which are often more rigorous than federal standards, covering areas like minimum wage, overtime, and anti-discrimination.
- Family Law: Community property rules, child custody standards prioritizing the best interests of the child, and state requirements for divorce proceedings.
- Traffic and DUI Laws: San Mateo County enforces Californiaโs strict driving under the influence and traffic safety regulations, with serious penalties for violations.
- Environmental and Coastal Regulations: Due to its proximity to the Bay and Pacific Ocean, San Mateo faces additional local rules on land use, building codes, and environmental protections.
- Court Procedures: Legal matters are handled at the San Mateo County Superior Court, and filings must comply with local court rules in addition to state law.
Understanding how these local nuances might affect your case is why consulting with a lawyer familiar with San Mateoโs laws is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a lawyer is licensed to practice in San Mateo?
You can verify a lawyerโs license and status through the California State Barโs official website at
What should I bring to my first meeting with a lawyer?
Bring any documents related to your legal issue, such as contracts, court papers, identification, correspondence, and a list of questions you have.
How are legal fees structured in San Mateo?
Lawyers may charge hourly rates, flat fees for specific services, or contingency fees in cases like personal injury. Always ask for a written fee agreement.
Can I get free or reduced-cost legal help?
Yes. Local legal aid organizations, such as the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County, offer assistance for those who qualify financially.
Are there specific courts for certain cases in San Mateo?
Yes. The San Mateo County Superior Court has divisions for family, civil, criminal, probate, small claims, and others. Your case will be assigned accordingly.
How long does a legal case take to resolve?
The length varies based on the complexity of the case, the courtโs schedule, and the willingness of the parties to settle. Simple matters may be resolved quickly, while complex cases can take months or longer.
What if I cannot afford a lawyer?
You may qualify for court-appointed counsel in criminal cases or be eligible for services from local legal aid organizations for civil matters.
Can I change lawyers if I am unhappy with my current one?
Yes, unless you are very close to trial or in special circumstances. You have the right to seek new representation.
What is attorney-client privilege?
It is a legal rule that keeps communications between you and your lawyer confidential, with a few exceptions such as threats of harm or fraud.
How do I file a complaint against a lawyer in San Mateo?
Complaints about a lawyerโs conduct should be directed to the State Bar of California through their official portal at
Additional Resources
- San Mateo County Superior Court - Information on filing, case lookup, and court services:
- Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County - Free and reduced-fee legal support:
- California Courts Self-Help Center - Legal information and forms:
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in San Mateo through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
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