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Kevin Murray Smith, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in New Haven, CT with 183 reviews
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43,63
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4.9/5
Avvo
4.9
8 Reviews
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4.9
175 Reviews
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22 Jan, 2025 by Ian kelly
Kevin is a fantastic Lawer. Case closed. In all seriousness, his communication, investigative and analytical skills are strong. His preparation and experience made a challenging case much easier to navigate. I’m forever grateful for his kindness and expertise.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Vp vp
I am so glad that Kevin Smith was helping us with top professional and ethical skills to solve the case. Very pleased with outcome.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Mary pavliouk
Very professional and helpful, did some amazing work for my case. Explained everything I needed to know clearly and directly. I am so thankful for his support in my legal battle.
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Scott Elliott Jackson, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in New Haven, CT with 13 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
41,94
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4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
12 Reviews
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06 Jun, 2023 by Robert r
Lee was able to step into an emotionally charged case and help me through it. Lee is highly skilled and diligent. He allayed many of my concerns during my divorce and custody case and brought to light many different considerations along the way, critical to custody determination and the particulars of my divorce. He was always there to help explain my options and key decisions for my case. I highly recommend Lee as a family law attorney!
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12 Jan, 2023 by Jeffrey napoli
Attorney Marlow was always readily available and on top of what is going on in the case. He thoroughly answered any questions I had and put it in terms I can easily understand. Throughout the process, he was very fair and always had my back. His experience in divorce procedures was phenomenal and he was extremely knowledgeable. I would recommend him to anyone who is unfortunately going through the divorce process, especially if their are children involved.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Troy “pokétr0yz” stevens jr
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John J Radshaw III, experienced Appeals, Civil Rights attorney in New Haven, CT with 65 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,40
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4.9/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
64 Reviews
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21 Dec, 2024 by Shivapriya pillalamarri
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21 Dec, 2024 by Shivapriya
Rudolph is a perfect attorney in this generation! Salute to him!
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14 Dec, 2024 by George blinn
Doug was amazing. I simply can't thank him enough for his professionalism, empathy and understanding during such a difficult time in my life. No question ever went unanswered and he was just so friendly and reassuring during my case. Doug had my back from day one to the minute my case was dismissed. I highly recommend him to any and all. Thank you Doug!
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James I. Glasser, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in New Haven, CT with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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28 Oct, 2017 by Paul jacobs
Atty James Glasser is the best at Federal, Criminal defense, unfortunately for me, I consulted with him after it was too late so my life was unnecessarily torn apart because I did not have assistance of competent counsel. Google Attorney James Glasser to see his history as supervisor of the New Haven US Attorneys Office for 19 years, his history with not losing, his education, teaching at Yale’s Law School, his Fathers a Federal Judge in New York and the respect from Federal Law enforcement agencies across the country and you will know there’s no other Lawyer who comes close to Attorney Glasser’s ability to negotiate a fair and reasonable disposition or take the case to trial. Many in New Haven are steered towards an overrated lawyer and left disgruntled. The Federal System can compromise and destroy lives, your best defense is with your Attorney. Jim Glasser is without any doubt, one of the best and finest Criminal defense Lawyers in the country and the best in CT.
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26 Sep, 2016 by S. winston
Mr. Glasser went above and beyond what what expected of him during my 2255 motion. He was very knowledgeable and well prepared. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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Hugh W. Cuthbertson, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 165 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,77
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4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
165 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Max delorenzo
Alex was eager and willing to take on our case when many other lawyers turned us down. His knowledge and attitude is someone you want on your side. We were extremely grateful for your work and time and helping us settle!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Andres saavedra
El abogado me ayudo con mi caso penales y estoy muy agradecido y se lo recomiendo. Excelente.
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06 Dec, 2024 by John galt
Best lawyer I ever had.
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David Joseph Monz, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,82
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4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
59 Reviews
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12 Jan, 2025 by Carrie weiner
Highly recommend, very professional and on top of it. Couldn’t ask for a better experience.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Violet dorsey
Cross every T and dotted every eye to get the best results.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Lenus eaton
Great job very friendly
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Andy I Corea, experienced Appeals, Intellectual Property attorney in New Haven, CT with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,82
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
59 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Carrie weiner
Highly recommend, very professional and on top of it. Couldn’t ask for a better experience.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Violet dorsey
Cross every T and dotted every eye to get the best results.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Lenus eaton
Great job very friendly
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Christopher J Picard, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,58
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
5 Reviews
star star star star star
22 May, 2021 by Jc truth
the best family lawyer, thoughtful, compassionate and very responsive.
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03 Mar, 2020 by Natasha
Never actually got service from them my ratings is strictly based off the fact that I called 7 times and spoke to someone left countless messages but Never received a call back very unprofessional!
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16 Aug, 2018 by Victor perez
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Maura Mastrony, experienced Appeals, Civil Rights attorney in New Haven, CT with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,42
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4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
59 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Carrie weiner
Highly recommend, very professional and on top of it. Couldn’t ask for a better experience.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Violet dorsey
Cross every T and dotted every eye to get the best results.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Lenus eaton
Great job very friendly
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Jennifer L. Morgan, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,42
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
59 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Carrie weiner
Highly recommend, very professional and on top of it. Couldn’t ask for a better experience.
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star star star star star
29 Dec, 2024 by Violet dorsey
Cross every T and dotted every eye to get the best results.
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star star star star star
07 Dec, 2024 by Lenus eaton
Great job very friendly
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Catherine Mary Baiocchi, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in New Haven, CT with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,42
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
59 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Carrie weiner
Highly recommend, very professional and on top of it. Couldn’t ask for a better experience.
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star star star star star
29 Dec, 2024 by Violet dorsey
Cross every T and dotted every eye to get the best results.
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star star star star star
07 Dec, 2024 by Lenus eaton
Great job very friendly
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Richard A Reeve, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in New Haven, CT with 28 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,20
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
28 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2024 by Eric wilson
Initially when first reached out other firms never returned my call or simply ignored me. The day I called jacobs&Dow they reached back the same hour.I had two different cases that were entwined. Attorney Katz successfully argued both and rendered more than favorable settlements I thought impossible. When other firms turned me down as a veteran this means the world to me. Thank you Jonathan, Kara , Holly, nick, Debbie, Alyssa. Anyone needing legal advice you’ll achieve positive results with Jacobs and Dow.
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19 Oct, 2024 by John tatoian enterprises john a. tatoian jd esq.
As a fellow attorney, years ago I met with Dow regarding a fairly simple matter. I found him to be profane, cavalier, arrogant, self righteous & borderline unethical in attempting to catergorize a retainer as "non refundable". In spite of dealing to represent me, he wanted to keep the retainer. Thankfully he realized the error of his ways & we both agreed the retainer monies should go to a woman with stage 4 ovarian cancer.
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24 Jun, 2024 by 174 maple
I recently closed on my house and couldn't be happier with the exceptional service provided by the Berdon, Young & Margolis team. They truly went above and beyond, especially when unexpected issues with permits arose. Atty. Berdon handled every hurdle efficiently and professionally, ensuring a smooth and stress-free closing process. Their expertise and dedication were evident throughout, making the entire experience seamless. I highly recommend Berdon, Young & Margolis for anyone in need of a reliable and skilled real estate lawyer.
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John R Williams, experienced Appeals, Civil Rights attorney in New Haven, CT with 51 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,50
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
2.5
11 Reviews
Google Maps
4.0
40 Reviews
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15 Jun, 2024 by Daniel vogt
Attorney Lilburn was instrumental in getting Judge approval for for what seemed a very difficult divorce. But she presented a solid argument based on my health issues and preceded.
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20 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Williams betrayed my trust. I hired him because the prosecutor of New Haven engaged in misconduct and I could not trust that she would protect myself and my children. My ex-spouse was charged with 14 felony charges ranging from rape to strangulation to suffocation. Attorney Williams lied to the prosecutor. He stated that I was no longer interested in pressing charges and that I had moved out of state, neither of which were true. I now face a lifetime of risk due to his malpractice.
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14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
John is very sly, will tell you everything you want to hear and will say he hasn’t lost a case. This man took my case and literally did nothing. He may be too old to perform, forgets many things or he just doesn’t care either way it thievery, an injustice to all.
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Jonathan Marc Freiman, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Pamela Anne Carter, experienced Appeals, Insurance attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Erika Lynn Amarante, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Tahlia Townsend, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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John J Esposito Jr, experienced Appeals attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Curcio, experienced Appeals, Intellectual Property attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Hugh I Manke, experienced Appeals, Real Estate attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jeffrey R Babbin, experienced Appeals, Insurance attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Deborah Monteith Neubert, experienced Appeals, Mediation attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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James Michael Hyland, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Peter W Peterson, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Kevin Christopher Shea, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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William Gallagher, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Benjamin Michael Daniels, experienced Appeals, Litigation attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Charles C. Goetsch, experienced Appeals, Discrimination attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Michael L Moscowitz, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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David Thomas Grudberg, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in New Haven, CT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Appeals Lawyer Can Do for You

An appeals lawyer specializes in representing clients in appellate courts, challenging or defending lower court decisions. If you believe that a legal error was made during your trial or that the court’s decision was unjust, an appeals lawyer can help you appeal the ruling to a higher court. They work to identify mistakes made during the trial, such as improper application of law, exclusion of key evidence, or jury misconduct. On the other hand, if you're defending a favorable judgment, an appeals lawyer can help protect the decision from being overturned.

Appeals lawyers don’t retry the case but instead focus on legal arguments and procedural issues to convince the appellate court to either overturn, modify, or uphold the lower court’s decision.

When Should I Hire an Appeals Lawyer?

Hiring an appeals lawyer is necessary when you are involved in a legal appeal, either as the appellant (the party appealing the case) or the appellee (the party defending the lower court’s ruling). Common situations in which you should hire an appeals lawyer include:

  • Appealing a conviction or ruling: If you’ve been convicted in a criminal case or lost a civil case and believe the decision was based on legal errors or improper procedures, an appeals lawyer can review the case and file an appeal on your behalf.
  • Challenging a sentence: In criminal cases, if you feel that the sentence is excessively harsh or not in line with legal standards, an appeals lawyer can work to reduce or modify the sentence.
  • Defending a lower court ruling: If the opposing party has filed an appeal to overturn a favorable ruling, an appeals lawyer can help defend the judgment and argue that the lower court’s decision should be upheld.
  • Complex legal issues: If your case involves complicated legal issues or interpretations of the law, an appeals lawyer can provide the necessary expertise to argue those points effectively before an appellate court.
  • Reviewing trial errors: Appeals lawyers can examine whether mistakes such as jury misconduct, improper exclusion or admission of evidence, or incorrect jury instructions occurred during the trial.

You should hire an appeals lawyer as soon as you decide to appeal or are informed that the other party is appealing the case, as appellate procedures are time-sensitive.

What Does an Appeals Lawyer Do?

An appeals lawyer provides specialized legal services to challenge or defend a lower court decision. Their role focuses on legal arguments, reviewing the trial record, and persuading the appellate court to either reverse or uphold the ruling. They can:

  • Review the trial record: Appeals lawyers meticulously review transcripts, evidence, and rulings from the original trial to identify any legal errors or procedural mistakes that could be grounds for appeal.
  • Prepare and file briefs: Appeals lawyers write legal briefs that present persuasive arguments to the appellate court. These briefs focus on the legal errors made during the trial and how they affected the outcome.
  • Present oral arguments: In many appeals, lawyers present oral arguments before a panel of judges, explaining why the lower court’s decision should be reversed or upheld based on legal principles.
  • Monitor case law developments: Appeals lawyers stay updated on changes in the law and precedents set by higher courts, which can be crucial in shaping the arguments they present during the appeal.
  • Provide legal advice on the likelihood of success: Appeals lawyers can offer a realistic assessment of your chances of winning the appeal based on the legal errors and evidence from the trial.

How Are Appeals Lawyers Paid?

Appeals lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the appeal and the amount of work required to prepare briefs and present arguments. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many appeals lawyers charge by the hour due to the significant amount of research, writing, and preparation involved in appeals. Hourly rates can range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the case’s complexity.
  • Flat fee: For some straightforward appeals, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all the work necessary to complete the appeal.
  • Retainer fee: In complex or high-stakes appeals, a lawyer may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers the initial stages of the appeal. The lawyer then bills against this retainer for ongoing work.

It's important to discuss fees and costs upfront with your lawyer during the initial consultation to ensure you understand the financial commitment involved.

How Much Does an Appeals Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an appeals lawyer varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of work involved. General cost estimates include:

  • Straightforward appeals: For simpler appeals, such as those involving minor legal errors, fees can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the scope of work.
  • Complex appeals: Appeals that involve complicated legal issues, multiple grounds for appeal, or high-stakes outcomes can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000 or more, especially if the case requires extensive legal research, brief writing, and oral arguments.
  • Hourly rates: Many appeals lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $200 to $600 per hour, with higher rates often associated with more experienced attorneys or particularly challenging cases.

Before proceeding with your appeal, it’s crucial to ask for a clear estimate of the costs involved so you can budget appropriately.

Top Questions to Ask an Appeals Lawyer

Before hiring an appeals lawyer, it’s essential to ask questions to ensure they are well-suited for your case and that you understand the appeals process. Important questions include:

  1. What experience do you have with appeals?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience handling appellate cases, particularly in the area of law relevant to your case (e.g., criminal, civil, family, etc.).
  2. How do you charge for appeals?
    Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a retainer, and request an estimate of the total costs for handling your appeal.
  3. What is the likelihood of success for my appeal?
    A good appeals lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses and the chances of winning the appeal.
  4. How long will the appeal process take?
    Ask for an estimate of how long the appeal process might take, from filing the initial briefs to a final decision by the appellate court.
  5. Will you personally handle my appeal?
    In larger law firms, junior attorneys or legal assistants may handle some of the research or drafting. Clarify who will be responsible for preparing and arguing your case.
  6. What is your approach to handling appeals?
    Some lawyers may be more inclined to focus on procedural issues, while others emphasize broader legal arguments. Make sure the lawyer’s approach aligns with your goals.

How to Check the Credibility of an Appeals Lawyer

To ensure that you’re hiring a reputable appeals lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for appellate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in appellate law and have successfully handled appeals similar to yours.
  • Check client reviews and testimonials: Look for client feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to get insight into the lawyer’s track record and client satisfaction.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their expertise and success in handling appeals.
  • Look for recognition in appellate law: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers (AAAL) or awards and recognition in appellate law can indicate a lawyer’s expertise in this specialized area.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with an appeals lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Trial transcripts and court records: The lawyer will need a complete record of the original trial, including transcripts, motions, exhibits, and the final judgment or order.
  • Legal briefs from the trial: If any briefs or motions were filed during the trial, bring copies so the appeals lawyer can review the legal arguments that were presented.
  • Written decision or verdict: Bring the court’s written ruling, verdict, or decision so the lawyer can identify any potential errors or issues to raise on appeal.
  • Questions about the appeal process: Write down any questions you have about the appeal’s timeline, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • List of potential legal errors: If you believe specific mistakes were made during the trial (e.g., improper evidence, legal misinterpretations), provide a list of those issues.

Being well-prepared for your consultation allows the lawyer to assess your case more effectively and provide the best guidance on how to proceed with your appeal.

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