The Hanzel Law Firm

I recently reached out to Hansel Law Firm to schedule an appointment, and the experience was beyond disappointing. Instead of simply setting up an appointment with their attorneys, the receptionist (or perhaps a paralegal) took it upon themselves to give me legal advice over the phone. Without reviewing any of my information, they gave a “quick analysis” of my situation, which was not only unprofessional but highly inaccurate. They essentially dismissed my need to speak with an actual attorney. If you’re not local and need help, don’t bother with this firm. Their gatekeepers seem more interested in playing attorney than actually facilitating a consultation with a qualified professional. I recommend seeking out a law firm that specializes in military law or contacting a Veteran Service Organization (VSO) for better assistance.

It’s a shame that a once well regarded law firm would hire a former prosecutor like Chris Czaplak. Then they take almost all his info off the website to cover it up once it was brought to light. You would think after all the lies and successful attempts to spy on defendants (our service members) and the legal team that surrounds them that you would never be able to practice law again. Unfortunately that’s not the case there will always be a no good money grabbing law firm that’s wants to know his tricks on how to ruin lives just for a check in the win column. Do your research and don’t get caught up in the swamp they are running.

Mr. and Mrs. Hanzel responded quickly when guidance was sought in my case. They were very professional and every step of the way they made sure that they had my back and put their best foot forward representing me and getting me the result that I was aiming for. By far best attorneys out there, hands down.

Mr Griffin has been an incredible help to me. We have practical conversations about the ways ahead and he's very understanding for the complexities of Department of defense regulations and military conduct and expectations. I would highly recommend engaging in your times of need.

My initial phone call to the Hanzel Law Firm caught them in San Diego at the airport. Lauren Hanzel instantly made me feel at ease with her confidence in knowing they could help. I explained the SHARP accusation against me and she instantly had a game plan of how to defend me against these false claims. With both of them having served in the Armed Forces it was comforting to know that they knew the ins and outs of UCMJ and court martial. Although I endured a stressful three months, in the end all accusations came back unfounded with favorable action for myself. This allowed for my flag to be lifted and I was able to submit paperwork to attend senior leader course as I was supposed to have during the three months that this was going on. This is an amazing firm and I would recommend to anyone.

Some legal problems are simple and obvious, while others less so. I found Mike and Lauren Hanzel to be adept at handling military medical labor matters on an international level. When looking for this skill set, you cannot simply drive off post and hope for the best. In my case, the Hanzels demonstrated that necessary mix of poise, diplomacy, and technical sophistication one needs to navigate delicate medical credentialing matters before they grew to become bigger problems. Their instincts proved mission critical in protecting my credentials despite our being geographically separated from each other by the Atlantic Ocean. If you are looking for timely responsiveness, tenacious follow-through, and significant knowledge of military medical matters, look no further. They are the real deal.

Mike and Lauren are the absolute BEST! Do not do what I did and assume the military appointed lawyers are going to take time to defend you. In my case, I had 2 military lawyers that completely botched my BOI...I was 1 month shy of 19 years in service at the time, had a flawless record (number 1 everywhere), I had a minor UCMJ violation, and the result of the board was 3-0 separate. WHAT?!? That's how bad they screwed it up. So I contacted Mike and Lauren and they jumped on my case. They were very thorough, responsive, and completely in control of my situation. Looking back, I should have not assumed my case was an easy, cut and dry case where the board would retain me...I should have called Mike and Lauren the second I knew I had an investigation on me. We somehow (thanks to Mike and Lauren) were able to salvage my retirement, but not my career. My advice, call or e-mail these guys the second you think you might be in trouble. They will guide you through the entire process and ensure you get the best possible outcome. I would never have been able to do what they did by myself or with any military appointed lawyer, so do not hesitate to contact them! They truly are the best in the business and I can't thank them enough for everything they did for me!

Watching this firm work a case is seriously amazing. They do a fabulous job. This is the firm to hire anytime you find yourself in need of great legal counsel.

Mr. Hanzel while serving as a JAG in the United States Navy was assigned to my case. He was lead defense for my case and was always prepared for all the hearings and eventually my Special Court Martial. He is great to work with and always made me feel confident in our decisions going forward with my case. At the end of the trial I was found not guilty and I believe that was solely do to the great people I had working with me and Mr. Hanzel was a big part of that success. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing help. Thank again!

Mike Hanzel represented me in a Military case. He battled the prosecution as well as Military Hierarchy and politicians. He never left a stone unturned in researching the best strategy to defend me. His knowledge of the law and relentless pursuit of justice is unmatched. He worked his tail off for me while juggling multiple other cases. I have no idea where I would be if this man hadn't represented me. If you need a Lawyer, THIS MAN IS THE ONLY ONE!

I worked with Mr. Hanzel on several issues while we were JAGs in the military. He is among the best attorneys I've ever worked with. Since his experience in criminal defense includes time as both a trial attorney and an appellate defense attorney, he is able to identify crucial issues at all stages of investigation and prosecution, enabling him to ensure his clients get incredible results at trial and maximize their potential for successful appeals. If I was in trouble I would not hesitate to hire Mr. Hanzel.

Mr. Hanzel has had a very successful career as a Naval JAG attorney. I was fortunate enough to have Mr. Hanzel on my team for Court Martial proceedings. He is comfortable in a court room and knows the law well. He finds truth be his driving force in feeding his passion for justice. He is one of the few attorneys that is invested for all the right reasons. This is the attorney you want on you team!

LCDR Hanzel was my defense lawyer for a three day court martial. If it wasn't for his expert ability I wouldn't be in jail currently. Mr. Hanzel had an uncanny ability to see and exploit the legal angles of my case. He was a steady calm force inside and outside the court room. If you feel like you might need legal help, reach out to Mr. Hanzel.