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11 Jul, 2016 by Donald ellis
Mr. Powell did a very good job being thorough and working with the judges who matter in my case. He is very experienced and cares for his clients. He is an attorney who cares and that is rare.
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12 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I had used Art Powell now for the 3rd time. Was pleased with outcome and retainer first time. 2nd charge was even more pleased with. He advised me of ability to go and plea myself to save a couple hundred dollars which I needed. Worked. Was even able to go to next court date and get it continued to have time to hire him. Upon 3rd charge used strategic motives to allow best outcome on my charges. Gave me complete confidence in his decisions an ability to look out for my best interest as well as my significant other related to case. Was very informative in explaining step by step procedure an process of court. And explaining my options and the strategy an reason for using them. Was very willing and understanding about payment plans. As well as retainer being very moderate as to the pleasing outcome of cases!
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26 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I obtained Mr. Powell for criminal defense. He seemed very unconcerned about the matter. He never returned calls back to me. I went for a preliminary hearing he was hours late, came in looking washed out. He started working with the prosecution instead of me. The case went to the grand jury and I asked what was our strategy. He said just hope the accuser doesn't show up. Hope she loses interests in the case. He also came to court with one piece of paper rolled up in his hand unprepared for court. Never ever use art powell!!!!!
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23 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Riley Powell and staff are amazing. He is a more than just an intelligent, skilled, driven, and experienced lawyer although those are noteworthy attributes; he is someone who cares and is passionate about fighting for you. He knows what to say and what to do, and I am grateful God saw fit to put him in my path. I highly recommend Riley Powell.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Riley Powell was hired the minute I met with him. It was clear that he was knowledgeable and had the expertise I was looking for. His family has been in law for many generations; he grew up learning the field. Not only is he highly skilled, he also has a heart to match. He truly cares for his clients and radiates a passion for what he does!
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12 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I trusted this firm boy did I get tricked. They filed court papers to the judge without my knowledge. He brags about communication with all his client's but that is NOT what I got at all. He actually made my case way worse. I couldn't even get him to return my calls or emails. But you better believe he got in touch with me when my funds got low. I eventually dismissed his firm and had to hire a competent attorney. Don't waste your money. Go watch him first in open court. I actually saw him arguing with a judge when he couldn't get his way on a custody case. Court room behavior when it comes to how to behave towards a judge says alot about a good attorney! RUN from this smooth talker don't walk!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Connie blalock
Did not do his job, contact me anytime with questions, but love his personality!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Clif rich
09 Apr, 2024 by Tonya
Chip represented my son well in his divorce with a favorable outcome. Chip is knowledgeable and determined. If we ever need an attorney in the future, Chip will be our first call.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Janet smith
He is very rude and abrasive. He demeans women. He is quick to insult. Seems to prey on young trashy women
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11 Jul, 2022 by Lawrence bailey jr
29 May, 2020 by Elisha wages
14 Oct, 2022 by Josh bodhi'sattva
He's awesome. I'd go to Clay before going to Alex Shunnarah lol.
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21 Aug, 2022 by Lacresha
He is an amazing lawyer. You will get your money's worth. Those other post are garbage! Listen to what he says and you will be fine! Will most definitely use him again IF anything else happens.
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03 Jun, 2020 by Melissa hutcheson
Overcharges! Do not believe his sales pitch! You WILL end up paying more than you think and heaven help you if you don't pay on time. He will drop your case right in the middle. Quick and in a hurry. Worst lawyer ever! Wastes clients time and does the bare minimum to get by. Does what HE thinks is best. Not what the CLIENT wants. Save yourself heartache and time. Get a good lawyer the FIRST TIME. It's NOT CLAY.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Andrea allen
A complete and utter joke.
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12 Jul, 2023 by Christy haynes
Such a great experience. Diane goes above and beyond. Caring, knowledgeable and always easy to reach. Thank you!
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31 Jan, 2023 by Timmy herring
It took her less than 2 weeks to get my kids back she is a great lawyer so happy with her services one of the best I found
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10 Oct, 2019 by Tamara merriweather
27 Oct, 2018 by Leonard amos
The Office of Orr and Almond was great very fast friendly service helpful service. I would definitely refer them to other friends and family members.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Michelle edmunds
I called to verify a Bankruptcy account and the receptionist said she is coming to sign papers tomorrow. So i replied so i can call back tomorrow and verify and collect her information and she got totally rude with me for no reason and replied i'm sure you will because you call for the same person 3 to 4 times a day. She wouldn't give me time to say anything and she hung up on me. This is my first time ever calling this office because i just got the number today to verify. I then called back and asked to speak to the attorney or who ever was over her and she wouldn't connect me to anyone over her and told me there are plenty of lawyers in mobile so i might need to find another one because i would be dealing with her 99% of the time not him. once again she hung up the phone....... so UNPROFESSIONAL!!!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Traci
Laura and her team failed me - I used David her husband as my divorce atty- my husband died before the divorce was settled .. he failed to put in the divorce decree I was awarded life insurance for my son, and failed to have it thrown out because he died before it was settled- he then referred me to his wife Laura for the estate - she has failed me … words don’t even cover the inapt professionalism of this firm… she didn’t call, email , or update me in the estate - I emailed my new address 5x and they still sent mail to the wrong address .. I was notified two days before a hearing in front of the judge to find out my submissions weren’t filed because they didn’t pay the $6 fee to file them!!! Do NOT use this law firm … my case has been going on for 4 years and I might get an email … if I don’t ask they don’t tell… and they didn’t even offer the settlement 2 years ago to end the estate filing !!!
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24 Jun, 2021 by Brenda
This amazing ,sweet Lady, WOW, she Represented My Daughter in Court on Contempt of Court for her Son. I wish I had hired her 1st. She is A “ Beast”! Me n my Sisters truly would Recommend this Atty too Anyone!
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28 Jul, 2019 by Amber
When I was younger I got into some trouble and she became my court appointed attorney. This woman went above and beyond for me numerous times and took me under her wing and helped me. Even got my hair cut for me once as well as helped to connect me to my mother and her side of the family whom I hadn’t seen nor spoken to in many years. I owe her so much and am so thankful I crossed paths with her. I highly recommend her. She is amazing.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Cason helms
I hired Mr Bullard for a robbery in the first degree and kidnapping in the second degree in Dothan Alabama in 2011. We took the case to trial and was found not guilty by a group of peers from Dothan. Mr Bullard killed the victim and the witnesses on the stand and made him look like total jackasses. Igot to understand and testified on my behalf and told the truth and the jury believed that the truth and was found me not guilty of both charges. Mr Bullard is highly recommended and I would hire him for any matters in the future. Thank you Mr Bullard for saving my life!
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14 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I have hired this lawyer and would not recommend him to anyone. It was a very hard time in my life and my husband had just passed away and I hired this attorney and used what little life insurance I had gotten from my husband passing away and paid this man $10,000.00 and he did nothing to help me with my case and took my money and ran!!
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19 Oct, 2016 by Jo
I thank my lucky stars that I found this man. He was very knowledgeable and helped me get my child back. I read the other reviews - yes it is true that the court doesn't require those classes, but they always help! Take the classes because they show that you care! I just put my faith in his hands and I won my child back.
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06 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr Johnson stated that the Court would require training to be undertaken and advised me to do it before being ordered to. That it was a 'court requirement of all parents'. I undertook said training at additional expense to myself despite a tight budget. The court later stated that requirement no longer existed and had not for quite some time.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I would strongly recommend you not to give this guy the time and definitely not the money, he is very inexperienced to say the least. I’ll be respectful and not disclose the unprofessional acts he presented.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Saundra
I had a letter written up that needed to be done by a lawyer. Mr. Jones wrote that up for me in a timely manner and at an affordable cost.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Kathy
My husband and I hired Zach Alsobrook to assist us with our legal issues and we were very pleased with his service. Zach and his staff were honest, professional, knowledgeable and helped us reach a great result. Because of the excellent result with this firm, my husband and I referred a very good friend of ours that had a very complex legal matter to Alsobrook and Jackson and our friend was also very pleased. We would highly recommend Alsobrook and Jackson to anyone needing legal assistance.
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08 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I am shocked at how unprofessional this law firm is. I paid Zach to get my traffic violation dismissed without any further repercussions. After he went to court on my behalf, they told me my case was fully dismissed under the condition that I pay $144 in court fees. I called to pay the court fees & it was then i was told my case was not dismissed until I completed defensive driving school. Not one from Zach's office even informed me of this. It was only when I confronted them that they told me they "forgot" to inform me that I had to complete traffic school because they misread the notes. It doesn't get anymore unprofessional than that. Now I'm stuck paying close to $500 for a ticket that didn't even get dismissed.
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26 May, 2023 by Rosalie d
Took our retainer money then quit two weeks before the scheduled hearing, leaving us without representation. Cannot trust them.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Julie etherton
26 May, 2023 by Rosalie d
Took our retainer money then quit two weeks before the scheduled hearing, leaving us without representation. Cannot trust them.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Julie etherton
26 May, 2023 by Rosalie d
Took our retainer money then quit two weeks before the scheduled hearing, leaving us without representation. Cannot trust them.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Julie etherton
22 Jul, 2022 by Megan
I have never had a lawyer create a circle a defend me from my dad like he and his wife did when fighting against my dad wanting custody of me and he was a bad person with him I may be dead right now
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12 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired him for my divorce, and he is an overall an OK attorney. His price is steep for what little work he does.
My daughter-in-law is the one who had gotten everything, including important infomation and evidence, together and organized it for hI'm to help him out. I ended up having to pay for a lot of the information; like bank statements, ect; which is fine. But than 2 weeks before the court date, he says he misplaced 75% of everything. REALLY?! Luckily my daughter-in-law had almost all of it backed up.
Otherwise in court he is fierce.
If you need someone tough in court but don't mind doing all the work than yeah he's your guy.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Joseph clark
Called in for a consultation and never heard back even when I called in a second time to follow up. If they don’t have the decency to follow up with potential clients, then chances are they won’t do a good job with other issues.
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30 May, 2023 by Brian burghout
Just another trash lawyer grabbing cash till they head out to the Florida keys. Lies and deception.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Nabi khan
19 Aug, 2024 by Linda
Phinney was hired due to a breach of contract, gross negligence by contractor costing me thousands in payment. He called me one time to update me on status. After that, he ghosted me, never numerous requests to return my call. He did not even have the decency to return my original documents.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Cindy
His assistant Paris is the best and made a very bad time in my life better. Her and Sean were happy to answer the TON of questions that I had and very quick to return my calls. Sean was blunt about the stressing parts of my case and up front about about what I should expect.
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12 Oct, 2019 by Terra smith
29 May, 2024 by Manuel borda
Rude. Does not make you fully aware or everything. Fine another lawyer.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Surget turner
Very friendly and helpful staff.
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12 May, 2023 by Bonnie garrett
We hired Rachel for a case dealing with the school board. She didn’t set our expectations well and kept losing each stage so that we had to pay more to move to the next appeal level to keep fighting. When we had meetings in her office she was kind and seemed to be on the same page as us, but in the hearings she was late, inarticulate, and hard to follow. She left out important points and included ones we hadn’t discussed and didn’t agree with. She didn’t seem comfortable speaking to an audience. She also commonly had issues with communication, like “my text didn’t go through”, “my email isn’t working”, “my staff didn’t give me the message”. It was very unprofessional. In the end, she lost our case. We understand you can’t win ‘em all, but when she realized she’d lost, she quit communicating with us and never gave us a final conversation to wrap things up. We actually had to reach out to the opposing side ourselves to find out what the outcome was. We knew the final result before she did. This was a very disappointing experience.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer is judgmental she makes sure a mother can not have her kids. She involves cases that does not contain together with siblings. I would not recommend this lawyer to anyone unless you want your kids taken from you when you have done no wrong.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired for a very specific reason. Took my payment, did absolutely nothing with my case, withdrew as she felt she couldn’t achieve what I’d hired her for claiming she was hired for another reason, refunded not even 20% of my retainer after doing nothing. The second most unethical and unprofessional attorney I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting. Save your money and your time and find someone else.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Bart
She will take your money and not return emails or calls for six months. I don’t think other than Shannon Rash you could hire anyone worse. She is not on your side and will force you into committing to a bad deal. Buyer Beware!! Completely useless
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31 May, 2024 by Chris
I generally appreciate how they handled the case itself. They helped me to understand what was important and make sure we did what was necessary.
That being said, towards the end of the case, they asked for an additional retainer which I paid with the trust that any unused retainer would be refunded. I ended up negotiating an early end to the case, which brought it to a close sooner than expected.
After the case closed out I patiently waited for the judge's orders and final executed agreement and it wasn't until I contacted them twice that I was finally given these documents. They told me that their email server had crashed, though apparently they made no effort to verify that necessary communications had gone through.
Once I told them I wanted to close out the case and get my final itemized billing statement it became very difficult to reach them. I had to contact Legal Shield just to get Mr. Campbell to answer.
He eventually sent me a statement with many obvious overbillings, such as:
* an erroneous process server fee (which he admits)
* billing for a subpoena for a court appearance Mr. Campbell missed (which had to be rescheduled, everyone else was there but him)
* billing for me to go back and forth with them to obtain the end of case documents they never sent me
Mr. Campbell said he would review the statement and make any corrections then get back to me. However, since this response from him I haven't heard back from him and it is clear that he is not interested in providing fair and accurate accounting.
I'm not sure what's going on, if he's just busy or if he really doesn't care and thinks it's beneath him to be accountable to his client who's paid him thousands of dollars for representation. Whatever it is, it's unacceptable and he should be ashamed of himself.
I placed my trust in him and was not treated like a valued client in the end. Keep that in mind when you think of letting him hold onto your retainer. You may not get it back and he may not care to be transparently accountable about how it was spent.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired John to take on a claim I had against a car insurance company that was incredibly difficult to deal with in settling this matter. The Insurance company's client rear-ended me, sent me to the hospital and I had lasting injuries afterwards. John immediately took the case and spent nearly a year arguing with the insurance company. In the end, he got a huge settlement for me!! Amazing attorney!
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26 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired him there was no communication and had me pay extra to refile in the same courtroom on the same case that he told me he would file elsewhere never asked me what I wanted in the matter basically just showed up and went with it
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19 Dec, 2017 by Stacy
I had 4 serious charges and was facing potential jail time. Sammie calmed my nerves and assured me that he would do everything possible to keep me from serving anytime. He was available to me anytime I had questions or concerns. After 3 years of going thru stressful court hearings and worrying that I may have to leave my family, Sammie was able to have all 4 charges dismissed!! If you want an attorney that cares and does an outstanding job call Sammie Shaw!!
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20 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I contacted Mr Shaw for some legal assistance.... Not only did he assist me legally he also saved me a lot of money by informing me of the proper steps I need to follow that didn't even involve a lawyer!
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24 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I consulted and worked with Mr. Shaw against a former landlord of mine for attempting to charge me for fees for an apartment I left spotless. He wrote a letter, scared them enough to change their minds on trying to come after me for damages, and asked me if I wanted to proceed with suing for my deposit. I told him I did. Nevertheless, I never heard from him again. I called, and called, and called. He never called back. I paid him to write a letter. Had I known he would take no further action, I would've never gone with him.
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23 Aug, 2021 by Caroline
Attorney Webber forgot about our case and now my husband who's mentally disabled due to a TBI now has an escape charge. Webber said he was called Com. Corrections and getting him into a rehab. Put me off then forgot. Age catching up. BEWARE.
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23 Jun, 2014 by Christy
He got 10 counts of attempt to manufacture dropped to 1 count of attempt to manfacture instead of 20 yrs in prison I got 1 year of drug court after drug court all that's going to be on my record is that I was arrested not charged he was awesome his prices are low other attorneys wanted $8000. And up Mr. Webber charged less than $1000.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
He lies. He doesn’t respond to mail. He doesn’t listen. I believe what inmates say “He will sell you out”. Worst attorney in the whole state of Alabama my opinion! In the Houston county jail when inmates have to defecate they say “ I’m going to take a lamere”.
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19 Aug, 2024 by James ellis
24 Feb, 2024 by Sharod
My name is Rashad McLeod and I was out here in Dothan Alabama attorney Mr Matthew Lamere is a great attorney.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
She has an issue staying in contact. She took days and sometimes weeks to respond. My case was completed months ago and I just found out about it because of lack of communication. I would never use this lawyer for any kind of case. Would not trust her to win rock, paper, scissors against a 2 Y/O child. If you value your money and time go to someone who is there for you because this one is only here for the money
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18 Jul, 2019 by Maggie
Lindsey was our divorce and custody lawyer and she was absolutely amazing. I honestly had no clue what I needed to do going into this since I’ve never been divorced before but she helped me with everything, from explaining all the steps to me of how things happen and in what order to helping me come up with a great arrangement that works well for me and the other party involved. She definitely kept my best interest in mind the entire time and made sure I got exactly what I needed in a timely fashion and she was more than reasonably price. I would definitely recommend her to anyone in need of a lawyer that works for them and only them.
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09 May, 2019 by Sarah
Great experience! She was fair with pricing and a treat to work with. Always followed up with any question I asked. Very pleasant. Office staff very courteous. Would recommend to a friend.
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10 Oct, 2019 by Brittany
Amazing lawyer I would recommend him to anybody he did everything I wanted and more, he saved me so much time and money I couldn't believe it! I was young but he treated me with so much respect
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08 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
This attorney was HIRED and tried my case. He failed to argue my innocence, instead, focused on the wrong parts of the case. He had to be asked to speak louder over and over again. Nice guy, not someone that you want fighting for your freedom.
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18 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Eric for my family case . He is very passionate and caring ! He really puts his all researching your case . However when it comes to stand up to the opposing side he folds and gives in without a fight. I feel he is one of the good ones but allows the bad ones to bully him .
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10 May, 2024 by Patricia poston
If I could give this person a zero star rating that would be just that! Seeing as opinions go a long way anyways. This person is far from professional from a lawyer and person standard, coming from a personal issue she makes threats on others behalfs via communication devices. On top of that she can't let personal things go in her own life. If this review comes down it will be put back up! Do not let someone like her handle any of your cases nor try and bully you into anything it's your right to speak your peace and have an opinion and her family just does that.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Tiffany garrett
Great Lawyer 👍
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03 Aug, 2021 by Travis nicole
We love and appreciate Lori
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
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What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
