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29 Jul, 2016 by Danielle
I was in a car accident in January 2016 sustaining multiple injuries. I was referred to April Dalbec by a very close friend. Mrs. Dalbec was friendly, professional and knowledgeable at our initial meeting. Throughout my case, I was always kept informed. I could always reach Mrs. Dalbec or her team and when call backs were required, they were very prompt. Being able to electronically communicate was a further convenience. My case moved along quickly and was won. I would not hesitate to use April Dalbec and her firm again.
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28 Jul, 2016 by Corey aldrich
April M. Dalbec Esq. recently handled a case for me after a major accident that left me off my feet for about 2 months with serious multiple fractures. I had no insurance at the time so the week long hospital stay accrued significant financial liabilities, right when I was unable to work and in need of focusing on getting well. April's kind approach with me, coupled with her tenacity and negotiating skills with the insurance company and hospital billing department, left me in a significantly better position than I could have possibly been in on my own. She gave me hope, encouragement and in the end freed me from a substantial financial burden that would have haunted me for years. I am so thankful for her professionalism and her humanistic demeanor and would heartily recommend her to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation. She gave me my life back while becoming my friend. Thank you so much April for being you and for doing what you do!
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28 Jul, 2016 by Cathy
I met April in 2000 after my children were injured in the worst possible way. She was the first attorney from the firm tgat made contact with me and assured me she was going to help ,which she did more than I could ever explain. Not only was a very large settlememt made but she was my biggest cheerleader in this case that went on for quite some time. Her kindness and integrity went well beyond her role as an attorney. I have know her for 16 yrs and she still keeps in contact with me from time to time. She was AMAZING and I cant recommend her enough
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15 Sep, 2015 by Cindy
Derrick was professional, informative and cordial. He called when he said he would and kept me totally informed. I was impressed with his capability and manner.
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07 May, 2014 by Kimberly
I can not even believe I got so lucky when I hired Derrick Thomas Hogan to be my attorney without knowing much about him. He was so over the too amazing in every regard that I ended up hiring him twice. He is such a brilliant lawyer with an excellent work ethic. He is entirely professional and has a beautiful heart to match how unbelievable he is. From the minute we hired him, this attorney had an abundance of knowledge and was kept in close contact with us every step of the way. Derrick Thomas Hogan is one in a million. His greatest strengths include being trustworthy, brilliant, and dedicated. He is the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. He is worth every penny. How can we clone this attorney? He is the absolute best attorney money can buy. Do not hesitate to call anyone else. You will be so lucky if he takes your case. As a teacher, I give him an A+ in every regard.
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04 Feb, 2014 by Diana
I am a woman who has never had to seek the counsel of a lawyer in a distressed situation. I was in an incident which forced me to attain a lawyer. Because of a lack of experience in this type of situation, I felt scared and totally alone. I went on the Internet and just looked up lawyers and found a site that stated what their mision statement was in regards to the operation of their law firm and I immediately felt "hope". I contacted them and was put in contact with a wonderful person named Derrick. I was very distraught at the time of our conversation and he never let me feel ashamed of the event. He was very professional, kind and took the time to listen with much patience. He explained the entire process to me with great diligence and understanding of the situation I was in at the time. I guess the most important thing I want to stess at this time is that in today's world, it isn't often you meet someone who takes the time to listen and respond compassionately. Derrick did all this and more. You know, it is true when people say that "something good can come out of a terrible situation. For me this was true when I came to meet and know Derrick Hogan. My situation was resolved with positive ending but most of all, my life was blessed by a young asttorney, Derrick. All I can end with is to relate with all sincerity that this attorney will bless any law firm and its clients that he associates himself with great success and prosperity. He is a man of integrity. Thank you for having this man on your staff so he could help me go through a tough situation with peace and confidence .
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11 Jan, 2018 by Kathy
I hired Benjamin Hill in April-2017 to settle a labor dispute. he was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and relentless in the best way possible. he was always available and returned calls or text messages and emails promptly. the case was settled to my satisfaction within 6 months. I highly recommend his expertise, and would hire him again if the need were to present itself.
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16 Oct, 2017 by Steve
Ben is a compassionate, caring attorney who knows the reality of the cases he handles. He was amazing and overcame some big obstacles to see my case to a successful settlement. He is awesome!
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08 Jun, 2017 by Christine c
Ben is a GREAT attorney. I can not say enough about this mans knowledge, professionalism and all around kindness. Ben represented my minor daughter in a case of sexual abuse. He was beyond kind and understanding of our emotional needs as well as our legal needs.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Prissy
Mr. Pennock is the best lawyer I've ever had, one you would want to have on your side no matter what type of case or legal affairs you want handled. He is very thorough, honest, and detail-oriented. Nothing misses his legal eye, and the wealth of accumulated legal knowledge and experience he has in various legal areas (especially in cases where they might overlap legal boundaries) is unbeatable. He is fair in everything, including and especially his reasonable fees, and he will tell you if you are being unreasonable in your demands or if you are crossing any legal lines in any of your cases and dealings that you entrust to him. He was my lawyer for a car accident and in real estate, and the thoroughness of the advice and work that he put into both were the same even though both didn't actually pay him the same amount of money. With Mr. Pennock, it doesn't matter what job he is handling or how much the job costs: it is that he gets the job done very well with your best interests always in mind. This is also why I say he is ethical, because unlike a lot of lawyers you meet these days who may only treat you as a case (instead of a person), Mr. Pennock will tell you how your legal decisions may affect you, your family and loved ones, or the other party you are working against, always making sure you do not endanger yourself legally. Because of his work ethic, his partners and legal staff follow the same principles he has set and have the same high regard for you and the law as he himself does.
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04 Dec, 2009 by John
we have known john pennock for about 30 years . in 1981 he defended us in an auto accident which had a positive outcome. then, in 2006 when we had a horrible life changing accident, john pennock was with us every step of the way. that also resulted in a very positive outcome which was tried in federal court. john pennock is very experienced and knowledgeable and comes to trial well prepared to win.
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22 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
John Pennock’s talent for the law is exceptional. Extraordinary trial preparation and organization, witness preparation and trial execution. I am always amazed at how he assimilates and thoroughly digests every detail of any importance. At deposition and trial, John handles every witness with great skill, persistently extracting from them good, solid, factual testimony. Jurors follow his every move in the courtroom, listening intently to his penetrating examination of witnesses, both friendly and hostile. His closing argument puts it all together for the jury in a highly effective, understandable and believable manner. He is very well regarded by the bar and the bench for his high degree of professionalism and skill. Always civil. If you need a gladiator to go to court and wage your war for you, then you need John Pennock.
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13 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Kehoe's office reduced my 2 tickets to zero point parking violations. Well worth the price.
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28 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with Marty on many legal matters ranging from real estate transactions to traffic tickets. He is qualified, and did the right thing, every time. I recommend Marty without hesitation.
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29 Mar, 2015 by Bill
I found David to understand my needs very quickly and to thoroughly pursue the best remedy to resolve those issues. He would always contact me to keep me informed on the latest developments in the case. it was a great relief to know David Levy represented me.
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26 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Levy and Obstarczyk handled my legal matter. They were very prompt, responsive, and honest with me throughout my case. I highly recommend this firm!
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Jordan to assist with a real estate transaction. Throughout the process he was knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend this Attorney for any legal needs.
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12 Jan, 2018 by John
Mr Jordan was great he handled all my legal matters quickly and effeciently. Was able to have several of my tickets dropped or greatly reduced. I would reccomend him to anyone.
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06 Oct, 2011 by Paul
“Tom has been a great attorney. Anytime I had a question about my case, Tom was easy to contact. I have always felt very confident with his abilities and his conduct has always made me feel at ease.”;
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07 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
He took the case for my 14 year old son many years ago. Family court issue. Criminal and burglary charges. He proved my son was innocent of all charges. He provided a refund of monies he didn’t use. Which I found to be incredibly. I believe he is an honest and decent person to hire.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Mindy t
Great Law Firm! I was leary at first and ended up reading the reviews and was judging the law firm based off other people's reviews and exprience but got the total opposite services. Maybe it's particular attorneys but A. Jazembak was assigned to me. Mr. Jazembak has great communication and wants to know precisely information to accurately get the results his clients want.
Honestly, if you want a good defense, be ready to have everything documented and ready to present to them EVERYTHING. They aren't mind readers so I think the negatives reviews came from clients thinking that they had to only give the basic information and assumed because it's a law firm they had the ability to make a good case on basic information. If you're putting in effort, they will 100% fight for there clients. The paralegal has excellent communication C. Barrett and the account keeps track of all funds and send an itemized bill accurately H. Myers. Give them a try, ypu wont be disappointed!!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Jose ramirez jr
14 Jan, 2025 by Michael outlaw
Mrs. Tenney is very knowledgeable made me feel at ease during our intake session. I am thankful I found your firm and look forward to working with you.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Jeremie meyer
I do not give out 5 ⭐️. In this case Patrick Sorsby Esq. went above and beyond to earn the highest eat resting. Just before four (4) pm Friday as he has preparing for a weekend away from the firm.
Attorney Partick Sorsby Esq. was apathetic with me and the legal challenges I will be facing his week. He talked with my for 20 minutes, spelled out what I need to look up, know and say. He mentored me how what to and not to say and how to behave. A told of facts and tips. Patrick Sorsby Esq. I who I was as a legal counsel.
I will keep you posted.
Respectfully,
J. J. Meyer
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19 Oct, 2022 by John harwick
Patrick is a top-notch labor law attorney focused on protecting employees’ rights.
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30 Jun, 2020 by Nancy esmay
17 Jul, 2019 by Kathryn schechtman-aikey
06 Aug, 2024 by Ryan m.
Best in the business
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23 Oct, 2023 by Michael manoussos
19 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Breslin to represent me in a relatively straightforward misdemeanor larceny case and could not have been happier with the representation he provided as well as the outcome he procured for me. From the very beginning, he was reliable and quick in responding to my inquiries, and took the time to answer all of my questions in a thorough, kind, and professional way. My case was relatively minor, but I never felt that this affected his level of attention or commitment to my case. His fee structure was transparent and fair (he charges a flat fee for petit larceny cases), and payment was easy through an online system.
Pandemic-related restrictions resulted in multiple delays with the courts (outside of anyone's control), but Mr. Breslin kept me informed and helped me navigate the changes in procedure; I always felt that I could count on him to provide the knowledge and support necessary to help me through the process. Additionally, Mr. Breslin demonstrated familiarity and experience with the local court, law enforcement, and prosecutorial professionals, and I gathered that his reputation within the local justice community was of great benefit to my case.
Mr. Breslin was ultimately able to secure the best possible outcome for me, and I could not be happier with the way that he handled my case and treated me as a person—always with professionalism and respect. I could not recommend him highly enough and if I were ever in need of future legal representation he would be my first call.
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24 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
He may be a good lawyer but I never got the chance to find out. After three phone calls speaking with Brittany I was promised he would return my phone call. And after three emails (one directly to Mr. Breslin) I still received no response. Horrible communication.
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12 Oct, 2020 by Chris
I hired Sam Breslin for a DWI charge in Albany County and I could not be more pleased with my decision. This was one of the toughest situations in my life and I was interested in finding someone local to the area and specifically listed DWI law as one of their specialties which led me to Sam. His website was easy to use and people had written glowing reviews. What was even better, I was contacted within an hour or two on a Sunday by someone at the law group to collect the information of my case. When Sam called to talk, he could not have been a better human being. He was incredibly compassionate about the range of emotions I was experiencing and when it came to being a lawyer, he made it very simple to understand the law. While there was things I hoped could happen that the law does not allow, Sam did not make me feel like I wasted his time with my questions and that made it easier to appreciate and understand. He got right to work and did all the necessary due diligence and we were able to get quick resolution. I highly recommend Sam if you are in a similar situation as me because he really put me at ease. Not just a great lawyer but an excellent human being!
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31 Dec, 2024 by Raelene noll
Bill was clear and concise in his description of all the estate documents that we needed. His firm is professional and communication with them was prompt. As we are members of the LGBTQ community, we would recommend his services to all.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nancy schroeder
The Pfeiffer Law Firm originally developed a family trust for us in 2018. We decided to include a few more assets into the trust in 2024. Bill Pfeiffer and his staff were prompt in responding to all our needs, including questions on the process. Bill has a very pleasant personality which makes it easy to ask questions and understand the process. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Glenn gilbert
Thank you for your professional and personal guidance in our Estate planning process. We very much appreciate your experienced legal counsel and guidance, your thoroughness in detail and ability to put us at ease through something we had postponed for too long. Glenn Gilbert.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Vicki jae
Di was the best! She helped us work through our first home purchase. She was knowledgable, timely and very approachable. I would definitely recommend her for any real estate transaction you are working through.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Matt w
Di was very professional and knowledgeable. Everything went very smooth. Thank you.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Corey mae
My experience with Di Ma during a real estate transaction was deeply disappointing. Despite knowing that the buyer had not paid the $50,000 earnest money deposit, Di advised my spouse and me to proceed with notarizing and shipping a deed and to continue preparing for the closing. This advice led us to spend unnecessary time and money, which we now realize could have been avoided. On October 3, 2024, Di assured us in writing that she would reimburse us for these expenses, but she ultimately failed to follow through and completely stopped responding to us.
Our new attorney also raised concerns about much of the legal advice Di gave, including her instructions on how to handle a “time is of the essence” letter and her misleading comments about the impact of using an out-of-state ID at the notary on our taxes. Based on these issues, we felt that her advice was incorrect and not in our best interest.
Additionally, I found Di to lack professionalism throughout the transaction. She appeared overly emotional and unfocused at times when I expected calm, steady guidance during such a challenging situation. The real estate field requires lawyers to help navigate their clients through stressful situations with composure, and unfortunately, Di did not meet those expectations for us.
While this was my personal experience, I would advise others to carefully consider whether they feel fully confident in the advice and professionalism of any attorney they choose to work with.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Mindy t
Great Law Firm! I was leary at first and ended up reading the reviews and was judging the law firm based off other people's reviews and exprience but got the total opposite services. Maybe it's particular attorneys but A. Jazembak was assigned to me. Mr. Jazembak has great communication and wants to know precisely information to accurately get the results his clients want.
Honestly, if you want a good defense, be ready to have everything documented and ready to present to them EVERYTHING. They aren't mind readers so I think the negatives reviews came from clients thinking that they had to only give the basic information and assumed because it's a law firm they had the ability to make a good case on basic information. If you're putting in effort, they will 100% fight for there clients. The paralegal has excellent communication C. Barrett and the account keeps track of all funds and send an itemized bill accurately H. Myers. Give them a try, ypu wont be disappointed!!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Jose ramirez jr
14 Jan, 2025 by Michael outlaw
Mrs. Tenney is very knowledgeable made me feel at ease during our intake session. I am thankful I found your firm and look forward to working with you.
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5.0
21 Reviews
4.1
200 Reviews
20 Feb, 2025 by C w
$6500 retainer to start a custody case and paying for someone to drive to and from a courthouse and do bare to minimum work definitely not worth the money I paid for the services I received I would not recommend this firm. I did all the work! Therefore I should get all my money back! Now I’m waiting for $2200 of my retainer that was leftover and get a text message from the firm stating a need to click a link to set up an appointment that I never made or even need the court case was finished a month ago! Like seriously! This firm is horrible!!!
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03 Feb, 2025 by Porsha brown
If you’re a single mother, a person of color, or someone that has children, beware. Scamming and Grifting is all I could say. Wait until you hire them then they’ll switch lawyers and make you pay double. If you love your money and family don’t go to this place. They will rip you off
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30 Dec, 2024 by Joseph vinisky
I can recommend Mohanad Elmassalemah for child support situations. He was professional, knowledgeable, and supportive.
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03 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I called Larry on a Saturday and he responded right away, was in the office on Sunday getting things together looking over my case.
Immediately letting me know what best course of action to take
And his price was fair and reasonable
Thank you larry
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12 Jun, 2015 by Mikhail
Larry is excellent Attorney!!!
When i give my 6 points ticket to Larry All my stress was Gone!. With his excellent work, results and by keeping me fully in formed every step of the way. Pluse On believable low prices. I cant think of no other attorney BUT Larry.!!!!! Thanx Again Larry...
Milhail.
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31 Dec, 2013 by Thomas
WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED BACK IN ALBANY NY IN JULY 2013 AFTER A TEN YR HIATUS MY LICENSE WAS CLEAN. I SECURED A GREAT JOB THAT REQUIRES ALOT OF TRAVEL. SOON AFTER, I WAS CAUGHT DOING 76MPH IN A WORK ZONE WHICH WAS POSTED AT 55MPH AND IN NYS THATS A BIG NO NO. THIS WOULD HAVE COST ME MY CAREER AS DRIVING IS A NECESSITY FOR A SERVICE TECHNICIAN. IMMEDIATELY I WAS FRANTIC. BIENG FAIRLY NEW HERE I HAD NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE LOCAL ATTORNEYS AND DIDN'T KNOW ANYONE TO GET A GOOD REFERRAL. LUCKILY I FOUND MR. KIRSCH ON AVVO. I TOLD HIM MY SITUATION AND IMMEDIATELY HE PUT MY MIND AT EASE. IT WAS CLEAR THAT ALL HIS YRS IN THE TRAFFIC COURTS HAD WON HIM SOME SIGNIFICANT BARGAINING POWER. THIS SPEEDING TICKET WAS REDUCED TO A PARKING TICKET WITH NO POINTS AND AND A $200 FINE IN A MATTER OF DAYS. AWESOME. THEN.....2 WEEKS LATER MR. KIRSCH CALLS AND TELLS ME HE FOUND AN OLD TICKET FROM TEN YRS AGO JUST BEFORE I MOVED OUT OF TOWN AND IT'S STILL ON MY RECORD. I ASKED HIM TO WORK HIS MAGIC AGAIN, AND AGAIN HE CAME THROUGH SEAMLESSLY. PARKING TICKET WITH A $175 FINE. ALL IN ALL MR. KIRSCH COST ME AROUND $400 FOR HIS PRICELESS SERVICES, CLEARED MY LICENSE, AVOIDED ANY POINTS AT ALL AND KEPT ME INFORMED THROUGH THE WHOLE THING. I'LL BE SURE TO RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE THAT NEEDS AN HONEST, FAST, EFFECTIVE LAWYER.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kenneth cross
Very professional but yet friendly. Listen to my concerns and put my mind at ease I would definitely recommend them and I will be using them in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kel bell
Did a great job in a very difficult time in my life
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shiquetta perez
The impression that I received from Mr. O'Brien during my consultation with him was that he is very knowledgeable and professional.
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12 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
well informed went above and beyond
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10 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I was able to be seen quickly and have the basics of my case reviewed in short order. Steps to resolve were professional and helped to move the issues forward. His staff was very knowledgable and kind.
I can recommend without question.
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18 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
We were contacted about a demolition CD lost on the subway. We were happy and surprised of David's follow thru and helpfulness with the lost document. thank you David! Awesome
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10 Apr, 2014 by Ryan
Great lawyer. This man saved my life. Represented me back in 2006 for an aggravated assault. He advised me to plea ngi (not guilty be reason of insanity). After having an evaluation it was found I suffered from some very serious diagnosis' and needed help. Although I deeply regret what happened with regards to the felony charge, it was the impetus that began the road to a healthy life for me and my family.
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08 Sep, 2015 by Jocelyn
I sate in a courtroom with the weight of the world on my shoulders. A prayer deep down in my Soul for my Son's freedom, and Ellanas reputation among her colleagues. She has proven to be a soft spoken warrior for Justice. I can only thank you by praying for you and your family. You are truly an Angle here on Earth.
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14 Jul, 2013 by Delicia
My son has had Ms. Slack-Bean as his lawyer 2 times.Once when he committed his original crime and another for breaking probation. The District Attorney wanted to send him away for 7 to 15 years for the original crime of stealing 2 TV's and breaking probation and he didn't care that my son was Schizophrenic {hearing voices and seeing people}.She was thorough, kind, and professional.She did not treat him as just another case like so many court appointed lawyers do. She actually took the time to address his mental health issues, transferred clothing to him, and understood the bottom line. That my son was guilty but was not competent and on his medications {which were helping him very little}at the time he committed his crime and even addressed that problem before the judge. He was sentenced to 1 to 3 in a minimum security prison with jail time going towards his sentence and he is allowed to get out early on good behavior. I now have to contact her to find out why he has been placed in a maximum security prison when he hasn't done anything wrong while incarcerated. I know that if she is unaware of this that she will check into it and if she is aware of it then she will explain it to me in detail. My only problem is getting in touch with her because she is so busy and there is no longer a recording apparatus for me to leave a message.
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22 May, 2024 by Estuardo caal
Estoy muy agradecido con el trabajo de Abby, es muy satisfactorio saber que tú abogado puede hablar español y de esa manera poder poder entendernos, gracias a su desempeño mi caso se resolvió rápidamente
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29 Aug, 2023 by Mike
18 Mar, 2023 by Zak comisac
This was my first time hiring a lawyer and Abby made the entire process as simple and easy as possible. She guided me through every step of the way and her hard work led me to receiving a positive outcome. Having her represent me greatly reduced my stress over the situation and I wouldn’t hesitate to hire her again!
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30 Sep, 2023 by Heather connell (sunshine)
12 Nov, 2021 by Mona bumpers
24 Feb, 2021 by Greg restino
09 Apr, 2023 by Darien smith
13 Jul, 2022 by Timothy gibbons
Erica professionally and empathetically helped me navigate one of the most difficult times in my life. She explained every step of the divorce process and what would be required of me at every turn.
I would recommend her practice to any of my friends or family if the need ever arose.
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10 Jun, 2022 by David iversen
Fights for her clients with a confidence and fervor that few can match. Highly recommend attorney
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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:
-
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.
