Criminal Defense Attorney Gary Wenkle Smith

Being charged with a serious crime such as murder or arson is a legal procedure. However, San Bernardino defendants are often found guilty in the court of public opinion just because of an accusation. Unfortunately, “innocent until proven guilty” is not always the way people think. Often, they have had past experiences that have hurt their ability to see the best in others. Criminal defense attorney Gary Wenkle Smith understands this bias, and it’s one of the reasons he has dedicated his life to protecting the accused.

Seeing a “Defendant” as a “Person”

For the most part,  San Bernardino defendants are people who are doing the best they can to live their lives well. Unfortunately, circumstances or bad decisions threaten to put them in prison for years… or even for the rest of their lives. They want to avoid this outcome with the help of a criminal defense attorney. Gary Wenkle Smith chooses to represent the defense because he feels passionately about protecting people when they face the greatest challenges of their lives. His decision to take up this work is the result of years of experience, education, and self-reflection.

Making the Choice

When Gary Wenkle Smith was a teenager, he got into trouble here and there. His mother recognized that he was a bright boy with a lot to offer, but he needed to direct his passion towards useful pursuits. At one point, she “punished” him by having him read My Shadow Ran Fast, the story of reformed prisoner Bill Sands. Gary was taken up with the notion of how a basically good person can fall into the criminal law system and how, with the right support, he can rise up again. This led him to other books, including Clarence Darrow for the Defense, from which he learned the importance of a vigorous and fair defense of all who are accused. These themes stayed with him into college and law school. In his undergraduate classes and discussion groups, he defended the idea of free speech. In particular, he had particular concerns with the idea of a government using its power for ill: prosecuting people who didn’t have the resources to protect themselves. From that time, he recognized the value of standing up and speaking out.

Defending with Sincerity

The academic ideas of personal liberty and fairness are at the root of why Gary Wenkle Smith became a lawyer. He continues to write about these themes in respected legal journals and to donate his time to organizations like Cedar House Life Change Center, the East Valley Second Chance, and the Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino. A commitment to these ideals has also helped Mr. Smith achieve success for many clients. His passion for justice comes through when he speaks with a jury or presents in court. It is demonstrated in his ongoing professional development, his attention to detail, and his respect for his clients. If you are facing serious charges, get to know Gary Wenkle Smith, criminal defense attorney. Contact his office today by calling (909) 496-3448.