Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Super Lawyers
ABA badge
Lexis Nexis
American Association for Justice
MSBA badge

Testimonials

Murder Charges – Not Guilty

Raquel Smith and David Martella represented my husband who was facing a murder 1 charge. From day one Raquel was extremely down to earth passionate, communicative, and showed a personal interest in representing my husband in this case. The sacrifices, hard work and financial responsibility was well worth it. Raquel and David rocked during trial. The numerous visits/meetings at the jail and trial prep did not go in vain. They did a fantastic job in preparing my husband for his day in court. David’s closing arguments were perfect. He painted a clear picture to the jurors detailing what happen that awful night. He was extremely detailed and gave a visual presentation. I was thoroughly impressed by him. After days of deliberations we could not be happier with the outcome. NOT GUILTY was the verdict and now my husband is a free man. OMG God is good and this feeling is so surreal . I give all the honor and praise to God and I thank him for Raquel and David, they have truly been a blessing to my family. It is a pleasure to write this review . I hope whoever is reading this please do not hesitate to hire Raquel and David as their attorneys. This law firm is doing amazing things. – J.G. August 2024

Strategic and Caring Representation

Hired Ms. Smith to represent me in a domestic civil issue. Her case intake was efficient and direct. She then provided me a sound initial legal basis/argument to be used at trial. She CLEARLY explained every single step leading up to the trial, and during the court hearing. Even though we have GPS she still provided me specific directions about arriving at the courthouse and parking. What I appreciated the most is she proposed a settlement to the other party prior to trial, they quickly agreed to a dismissal and I avoided a painful trial! Ms. Smith is a very knowledgeable, direct and aggressive as necessary legal representative. – M.N., October 2024

Dear Dave: "Thanks for all your hard work on my behalf. I was fortunate to have someone as skillful as you arguing my case. I admire your tenacity and it was great to see you in action in the courtroom."

A Client, January 2015.

Dear Mr. Martella: "I would like to thank you again for all your help during our darkest hours. We came to you for a legal matter, but we got more than that. Our son received valuable advice that I hope will guide him for the rest of his life."

Father of client, 2015.

"I have watched Mr. Helfand in trial and in negotiations. He is remarkable. Mr. Helfand is extremely knowledgeable in the law, and even more knowledgeable in the ways to deal with people. He is truly a star in the Maryland legal community. Any person choosing Barry Helfand as his or her lawyer is making a great choice." - Criminal Defense Attorney in Rockville

Afshin Pishevar MD

"I strongly endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Helfand for many years. We have worked together on cases and represented conflicting parties. I have watched Mr. Helfand in trial and in negotiations. He is remarkable. Mr. Helfand is extremely knowledgeable in the law, and even more knowledgeable in the ways to deal with people. He is truly a star in the Maryland legal community. Any person choosing Barry Helfand as his or her lawyer is making a great choice." - Criminal Defense Attorney in Rockville

David Felsen MD

"It’s one of the biggest cases that’s been tried in Montgomery County in a long time,” said Steve VanGrack, a Rockville lawyer considering a Democratic bid for state’s attorney. “This is a local [politician] with high-profile attorneys being prosecuted by a state’s attorney being evaluated very carefully"

Washington Post

"The three finest lawyers at the time,” “You would have found these three on any short list of the best defense lawyers."

Washington Post

"Such creative courtroom techniques” “a reputation as one of the most effective defense lawyers in Montgomery County, if not the most flamboyant in the Washington area."

The Washington Times

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 Over 60 Years of Combined Experience
  3. 3 Former Maryland Assistant State's Attorneys
Fill out the contact form or call us at (301) 251-9001 to schedule your free consultation.

Leave Us a Message