Lawyers map
>773
experienced lawyers
Filter by
16 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I got hit with a frivolous lawsuit. I gave Phillip Milligan a $2400 retainer fee after he told me I would be refunded whatever he didn’t use. We filed a countersuit. Then milligan said they asked me to drop my countersuit if she dropped hers. I said, “Well, how much has she cost me so far?” I was told I had over $1700 left. I agreed I could take the loss of $700 to end it, so I agreed. I really needed that $1700 so I asked how soon I could pick it up. They wouldn’t let me pick it up. So I’ve been checking the mail. A week before Christmas, I get a letter saying they wrote a clause into my settlement making my retainer non-refundable. They were giving me nothing back! Don’t use them. They know I sacrificed to pay that retainer and they took full advantage of it!
Read more
24 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I gave him one star because I was required to select between 1-5 stars, if not I wouldn't give him anything. Milligan failed to notify me that he postponed my court date and did not submit proper documentation to the court. When I arrived to court (which turned out he had postponed). The judge called my name and Milligan was not there to represent me. Not only was I almost put in jail but my time was wasted. When my postponed court day arrived, I showed up early to meet with him, he was no where around. He did not show up until the last 10 minutes before court was adjourned and did not do an absolute thing to what he had said he was going to do when I decided to hire him. He told me he arrived late because he was confused on whether the court was in Van Buren or Ft Smith and he had showed up to the wrong one. (Which obviously shows he paid no attention to my file) I am very dissatisfied with how poorly he handled my case, he was very unpunctual, hard to reach and unprofessional. Every time I would try to reach him, his secretaries were very rude and when I would ask to speak with him, they would hang up the line as if he were trying to avoid speaking with me. I DO NOT recommend you hire Phillip J. Milligan, as a lawyer I feel he is untrustworthy and he was able to make easy money off of me so imagine what he would do with you...
Read more
29 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Milligan clearly puts his client's best interest as a priority. He goes beyond the extra mile to try to win your case for you. His ability to find important details that the opposing attorney misses is outstanding. The only complaint, and it is minor, is he delays getting information to the client on a regular basis prior to trial. However, he will take your calls and get back with you ASAP. Also, I believe that he is so driven to win your case that he intently focuses on that goal, putting you before his own need to take a break or even eat. Milligan Law Firm is the law firm for you if you want your case to be a priority.
Read more
04 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
wouldn't return calls. Charged me an outrageous amount and did NOTHING. Cost me my house and half of everything I owned. Stay away!
Read more
20 Nov, 2015 by Jennifer
Bryan has helped me out many times in the past 6 yrs. On different cases. He has always pulled through & got what I wanted done. He also works with you on making payments. Which is helpful in times of hardship.
Read more
22 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Bryan was able to assist me in getting full custody of my daughter and an emergency hearing the day after christmas. As a father it is hard to get custody of your child in Arkansas but Bryan can get the job done if it is at all possible for you to get custody. He has been very helpful in many other instances where I needed quick legal advice and very reasonable with his cost compared to his competition in the area. If you are in a bind and need a quick & reliable lawyer Bryan is the guy you need to call.
Read more
18 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Terry has been representing me for years and I’ve seen nothing but exceptional work from him. If you want a lawyer that will listen to you and hear you but at the same time be truthful with you and also get you the least possible time…. Then this is the guy. I speak from many years of experience using Terry in various counties and also several different types of cases. He is amongst the best. I’m not sure who the idiots were that gave negative reviews but don’t listen to them!
Read more
23 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I agree with the two previous reviewers. I was not pleased with the service provided by Terry Harper and would not recommend him to a friend.
Read more
13 Dec, 2016 by Bob
I used Terry in a felony criminal case. Besides one offer Terry suggested I take them all. Luckily I did not take his advice to accept a felony plea and ended up with a misdemeanor. I can only speak for myself but I would use a public defender before using Terry again.
Read more
23 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Legally speaking, he did the job he was hired to. Ethically speaking, he crossed the line. Lawyers shouldn't be sleeping with their clients.
Read more
26 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
As a result of incompetence on the part of my attorney a case # was incorrectly notated on an official court document resulting in incorrect and damaging information to be a part of my file and made public.
Read more
12 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Unable to handle the most common tasks efficiently. Did bare minimums, and only when prodded. Did not keep me informed at all.
Read more
10 Jan, 2018 by Cheryl
Reasonable fees.
Slow to complete paperwork and get it filed with courts.
Answered e-mail but did not return any of my phone call messages.
Read more
01 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
first let me say i was never anything but respectful and compliant with this guy. he was nice when we first met, and agreed to take my case( once he got my cash that is) however, he wasnt interested in a lot of the details i had, which did not instill a lot of confidence(basically like he did not believe me). but he did arrange my not guilty plea and i did not even have to go to my arraignment, which was nice. then he was completely rude on the day of court. literally, the first thing he asked me was where is my money. (mind you i already paid a hefty retainment fee) he verbally reprimanded in the middle of the court hallway and his demeanor made me feel about as small as the back hair of an ant. the only good thing i can say about that day is that he got my court date postponed, which gives me more time to find another lawyer who is more professional at handling dwi/dui 's(as i would not trust this lawyer) unfortunately this nightmare is still going on... i only wish i had chosen a different lawyer in the beginning, because now it is such a late notice. hopefully this helps somebody who might be considering him. i would advise you to do more research and find a more competent lawyer for dwi's elsewhere, owing to the fact that johnny "can only represent you to the best of [his] reputation". and will probably try to get you to take a plea bargain. im not going to stick with him to find out.
Read more
28 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired him, was very rude and useless! Very disrespectful, and rude did not care to learn anything about my case
Read more
12 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
45 minutes into my plea hearing Patrick Flake had not yet made it to the court room when they called my name. I let the judge know my lawyer wasn’t there yet and he allowed me to go call him. He answered the phone and informed me that he didn’t know we had court that day. So I waited for him to get there and went about putting in the plea that he advised me to put in. Clearly he never even really paid my case any attention despite the $5,000 I paid him to give me competent legal advice by reviewing the evidence in my case and to be on time to defend me on my court date. I was 19 and charged with delivery of marijuana which Mr. Flake refused to even show me a motion of discovery for or give me any information about but I later obtained a document that stated that a confidential informant was given x amount of money to purchase pills and marijuana from me. When the CI came to my house inquiring about those substances The document alleged that I told the CI that I didn’t have anything it would be later. Anyway, being that I was so young and had no idea what to do in this situation I just accepted these poor practices and kept him as my lawyer. I was convicted of conspiracy to deliver marijuana. If he had done his job correctly the outcome may have been different.
Read more
24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Coy and got the Flake. Worst defense attorney I have ever dealt with still a prosecutor watch out potential clients. He will serve you up with your head on the platter.
Read more
01 Jul, 2022 by John michael overbey
I gave Ernie Witt over 8 acres of land my home and 5000. After I signed over the land and gave him the money. He refused my calls and would not answer my letters. He did absolutely nothing. I was shot with my hands up and dragged across the parking lot. By deputy Chip Riddle. I was charged with attempted capital murder. But the deputy murdered me. If it was not for adrenaline to the heart and being hit with the paddles three times. I would still be Dead. I had a mistrial at which time Ernie Witt told me not to testify. Let him tell my story. Which he never said anything on my behalf. I ended up having to take a plea of attempted battery straight from the prosecutor. With out any correspondence from Ernie Witt at all. In which I received a15 year sentence for me being murdered by a crooked deputy. He is a crook.
Read more
03 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
same crap he is doing with my case.he has literally waited til the very last second to do ANYTHING leaving me completely screwed. He has all the evidence to easily win my case but has done NOTHING! until now that my 30 days of legal driving is over, now my license is suspended. WARNING, DO NOT USE THIS LAWYER. WORTHLESS. OH AND HE LOVES JOE AND HATES TRUMP, that says it all, speaks volumes to his mentality!
Read more
10 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
This man was completely unprofessional. My son was accused of rape(of a minor), tampering with physical evidence, interfering with emergency communication and assault on a family member, Mr. Witt neglected to speak with my son or anyone concerning his defense until the week before trial! He had evidence that would have created doubt in the jury's mind but instead chose to turn on my son, his client!, in the closing arguments and biased the jury against my son!!!
Read more
25 Feb, 2024 by Jon
Justin, multiple times, exposed my defense to the court and he has represented me twice without permission. He also uses his brother in law Travis Morrison as "special sitting clerk" to keep you from being able to file complaints with judicial ethics board.
The Hurst family has a long criminal history.
I have not been able to find an attorney to help me because it is known that they "own Hot Springs".
Read more
22 Jan, 2015 by Gerry griffin
Was told my charges were dropped as a court agreement was ment,he was to make sure as my attorney after a fullfield my end it would be dropped 7 yrs later I find out it has not been dropped ,foa a year I have been asking him to correct the error,I almost never get a reply and have been told he will show that he filed stamped by the courts with the judges signed paper hand delivered to my work three days ago ,he has left with no reply,I'm very upset,also a other case a year later I filled adoption of my child nothing but a bill from Justin Hurst,going to file with the board
Read more
09 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Used for divorce. Came highly recommended. Maybe he was very good once, but he isn't any longer. Totally disorganized. A child visitation hearing was held without Mr. Kidd even informing me, the plaintiff(!); and he agreed to changes to the visitation agreement in ways that I had specifically told him previously that I would not accept. He seemed completely unaware of filings that the opposing council (my ex's lawyer) had made - I had to find them on the Court Connect website and tell HIM about them, instead of the other way around. He is unreachable by phone or email for weeks at a time. I think he has way too many clients / cases - he told me "we have 250 cases going on, so I can't know everything." Don't be #251....
Read more
31 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
He is in Arkansas magazines as awesome, NOT TRUE! A close friend that told me about him, and went with me to meet him. I used him for my divorce, although not listed as his specialty, just says family, he assured me he would be on top of my case. It was awful. My soon to be ex was on the stand lying and I told Kidd during. When it was his turn to question him (ex), he didn't say a thing. Then while I'm being questioned, neither side said a thing about the lies. It was humiliating. I stayed on top on what I owed him and paid all up front and continued to ask what I owed. Was told, face to face, I owed nothing more. Month after divorce final I received a large bill. (I will just leave it at that)
Read more
01 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I was a client of hers. We went to court I paid her in full. My child support was reduced but I lost 2 weeks in the summer. I showed he pictures of my son's face and the hand pri t on it. That was never brought up in court. She seemed to more on the mothers side not the child's side
Read more
19 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I had rights she failed to inform me about. In court, it was too obvious she was fixating on irrelevant, even stupid criteria. Did not put my star witness on the stand. At the end, she used phrases that the other side said often.
Read more
03 Jan, 2019 by To whom it may concern
Hired him for DWI, mistake number one. Never had time to call me. He got me a sorry plea deal. I don’t think he talked to DA until court which royalty screwed me. he is not a DWI lawyer avoid like the plague
Read more
08 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Steven Kay's law firm to represent me in my divorce. Communication is severely lacking with this firm. I was apprised of several important facts pertaining to me case - after the fact- and only when I questioned things. I did not receive a bill for several months because - unbeknownst to me - the firm was in the process of updating it's accounting software. Instead of apprising me of that fact - I was slammed with a bill several months later - and an email - telling me all legal services would cease until I remitted payment in full PLUS an additional retainer fee. I was essentially penalized for the firm's lackadaisical ways of doing business. When I asked for them to work with me on a payment plan due to their lack of communication, I was essentially told that they only thing "lacking" was my ability to make payment. A friend of mine who is a local attorney has informed me that this firm has a terrible reputation in town - that - they are considered "stupid" by other law firms. Now I understand why. If I could do things differently, I would have retained another attorney. Do yourself a favor - avoid this law firm like the plague. They are solely interested in money, not providing quality services to their clients.
Read more
04 Feb, 2013 by Betty
my boyfriends family hired jimmie to represent him in court..he told my boyfriend to take a plea and he would only do 7-10 yrs and would be out. but my boyfriends info says longer..not only will jimmie not return any of our phone calls about this..but we cant get n contact with him at all...
Read more
13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
This is the Hoxie City Attorney in natural state of Arkansas. I was released from my volunteer position as a volunteer fire fighter. There are two ways to ve released from the fire depart. One is a very simple non confrontational way that occurs anytime during your 90 day probation. Or you are past your probation and they have to cite cause after exhausting a prescribed disiplinary procedure.
So it is a mystery as to why I was let go for cause. I am still in probationary period according to the department even though I disagree. So why was i told there were four seperate complaints against me. Yes complaints I never was told about. Seems weird, but that is what happened.
This attorney I use the term loosly was rude to me over the phone. She tried desperately to make me believe I have no legal recource in this matter. The complaints were relayed to me as a pig farmer in black rock - well that is incorrect the complainer is Zack Wilson, who once I process my FOIA with Hoxie, could end up in court for liable or slander. You see there can be no live stock in the city of black rock. Oh well off I go to anouther volunteer fire department, were I wont be released because of a neighbor like Zack Wilson upset over me correctly insisting he cant have pigs in the city limits.
I was told to consult with this attorney over the dismissal by my former supervisor on the fire department.
Read more
22 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
She would not listen, she forgot specific items we discussed. She was rude and did not try to understand or even give an effort to fight for me in my custody battle. Do NOT use this awful attorney. She does not earn her 3,000 dollars whatsoever.
Read more
25 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Well, if you like to be ignored he's the man for you. Or if you get a response you receive it from his secretary. Quote, "He told me to tell you......when he has something to tell you he will. " this has been going on for over 2 years. So if you love sitting in Texarkana jail for that long with non committed court date because he's still using that old covid excuse. You go right ahead. This man has given horrible representation. Good luck if you don't heed my advice.
Read more
20 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Jerry Larkowski back in Jan 2013 to handle a probate trust issue regarding my father's death. This attorney failed me miserably. When I hired him I specifically instructed him to remove my brother as trustee based on sufficient grounds of breaching fiduciary duties. Mr. Larkowski agreed and I paid him a $1000 retainer. After reviewing my case, Mr. Larkowski charged me more money. This was OK until he refused to do as I instructed which was to file a simple motion get an emergency hearing before a judge and get my brother removed as trustee. Mr. Larkowski charged for every phone call, e-mail, and consultation visit regarding my case and after $3000+ he refused to do as I asked and began "pushing" me into a deal which only benefited the opposing counsel and my brother (trustee). Mr. Larkowski began having a defeatist attitude and would not obey my instructions and my directives. Mr. Larkowski seemed more concerned about protecting the judicial misconduct of the opposing counsel than getting me a new trustee. After wasting over $3000+ on him. I had no choice but to fire him and find another attorney. I do not recommend Mr. Larkowski to anyone. I believe Mr. Larkowski is more concerned about making money than actually taking care of his clients concerns. I do not want anyone else to suffer the mental anguish I suffered back in 2013. Mr. Larkowski had the ability and the knowledge but refused to do it.
Read more
22 Jan, 2022 by Tammy
I see articles stating that his license was revoked, suspended due to not having his ceus and lying about it when questioned by professionals in the law field, as well as having financial judgements against him for fraudulent representation. Might want to make sure whether he was one of the fools who let jason baldwin be railroaded in the wm3 trial. I seem to remember those two attorneys being paul ford and robin wadley. Beware all who seek to hire those two incompetents.
Read more
23 Oct, 2018 by Buford
Hired irwin law firm cost me a thousand dollars just to get no answer or calls sent email called him multiple times and sent text
Read more
10 Jan, 2019 by Mistyc rising
I hired Mr Campbell for a garnishment. He has been uncommunicative for months at a time. He doesn’t respond to emails either. He has no secretary so you know nothing about your case. He didn’t inform me when he received funds. And he didn’t inform me when he stopped receiving funds. He also kept funds and made excuses as to why money wasn’t dispersed to me for two months. And still has yet to tell me why the garnishment stopped. When I complained about the lack of communication he fired me as a client. Worst lawyer I’ve ever worked with. Now I’m in the process of hiring another lawyer to finish my case.
Read more
23 Feb, 2017 by Lynn
This attorney met with me for 20 minutes. After that, she refused my calls and requests for more meetings. I had many questions left unanswered. She was not truthful in court and because of her unprofessional attitude and biased opinion it was a disaster.
Read more
14 May, 2015 by Jeremy
Just wanted money, once he was paid didn't want to do anything, misrepresented a plea deal to my fiancée and refused to do the honorable thing and fall on his sword, took $15000 and made one appearance, Told her her plea would be 2 years in and it turned out to be 3 because he didn't know the laws.
Read more
13 Jun, 2021 by Ruben
Mr Neely stated he was able to help with a Registration of Foreign Judgment. After paying a $1500 retainer the petition he filed was rejected because it was not the proper form at the clerks office. The judge in a letter stating he told him twice how to do it the proper way never attempted to correct it. 14 days after hiring Mr Neely I terminated his services and Motioned to withdraw as council under untrue statements. Basically paid 1500 for nothing now im stuck going pro se.
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We wanted to fight for custody. We were ready and motivated. We poured our hearts and souls into the case, thinking he was doing his part too. Only for him to do NOTHING helpful the day of. He spoke to the defendant for maybe 35 seconds and the plaintiff for maybe 2 minute. We left heart broken, blindsided, and feeling betrayed. This was years ago. Maybe he's changed.
Read more
15 Feb, 2018 by Gloria wilson
Don't waste your money. He can't remember anything you discussed last week.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Arkansas - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Little Rock
-
Fayetteville
-
Fort Smith
-
Rogers
-
North Little Rock
-
Jonesboro
-
Bentonville
-
Springdale
-
Hot Springs
-
Conway
-
Benton
-
El Dorado
-
Searcy
-
Russellville
-
Arkadelphia
-
Pine Bluff
-
Mountain Home
-
Texarkana
-
Batesville
-
Cabot
-
Bryant
-
Harrison
-
Hot Springs National Park
-
Maumelle
-
Paragould
-
West Memphis
-
Sherwood
-
Jacksonville
-
Malvern
-
Van Buren
-
Heber Springs
-
Bella Vista
-
Helena
-
Monticello
-
Pocahontas
-
Crossett
-
Forrest City
-
Hope
-
Marion
-
Newport
-
Paris
-
Eureka Springs
-
Morrilton
-
Blytheville
-
Greenwood
-
Magnolia
-
Hamburg
-
Lowell
-
N Little Rock
-
Ozark
-
West Helena
-
Camden
-
Wynne
-
Alexander
-
Farmington
-
Greenbrier
-
Hot Springs Village
-
Mena
-
Siloam Springs
-
Alma
-
Beebe
-
Cave Springs
-
Centerton
-
Clarksville
-
Clinton
-
Lake Village
-
Mountain View
-
Stuttgart
-
Ashdown
-
Berryville
-
Dumas
-
Harrisburg
-
Lincoln
-
Mount Ida
-
Mountainburg
-
Piggott
-
Prescott
-
Walnut Ridge
-
Augusta
-
Bauxite
-
Cammack Village
-
De Queen
-
Marianna
-
Marked Tree
-
Mcgehee
-
Nashville
-
Prairie Grove
-
Sheridan
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Arkansas
-
Business
-
Personal Injury
-
Family Law
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Insurance
-
Civil Rights
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Car Accident
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Child Custody
-
Workers Compensation
-
Consumer Protection
-
Elder Law
-
Adoption
-
Bankruptcy
-
Wrongful Death
-
Trusts
-
Intellectual Property
-
Debt Collection
-
Mediation
-
Child Support
-
Immigration
-
Divorce
-
Juvenile Law
-
Class Action
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Discrimination
-
Domestic Violence
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
DUI / DWI
-
Foreclosure
-
Federal Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Entertainment
-
Sex Crime
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Copyright Application
-
Life Insurance
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Cannabis Law
-
Education Law
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
