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Aaron David Schatz, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 6 reviews
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25,74
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4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
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11 Sep, 2014 by Jennifer
Aaron is honest, dependable, affordable and still someone that cares about people. I would highly recommend him for any of your needs. I personally used him for traffic tickets/outstanding warrants. He was so helpful with everything.
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25 Jun, 2014 by Toni
Arron Schatz is simply amazing. I know I can count on him for anything. Staff is very professional and on top of things. I am kept informed and my mind is at ease knowing Arron his handling my case. I highly recommend!!!!
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14 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Aaron is a very down to earth attorney. When i took my case to him, he was straight up with me and did not try to bullshit me. He was honest with me every step of the way and kept me informed of what was happening with my case. His prices were reasonable and his office staff was very helpful. Even when he wasn't in the office, I got to talk with Elizabeth and she was very knowledgeable and helpful! I would definitely go back to Aaron with any future legal issues and have recommended him to my family and friends.
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Justin Chance Smith, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 5 reviews
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25,12
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4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
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24 Sep, 2020 by Chris
Never had the chance to hire Chance Smith and after talking to him once, he's permanently removed from my contact list. I'm one of those lead-foot guys and have been since I turned 16, unfortunately. I've used attorneys ad nauseam over the years. It's an annual occurrence. I began using James Mallory for Tarrant County tickets, moved over to Jim Lollar, who represented me for many years, and now use Justin Holt, who took over Lollar's book of business upon Lollar's retirement. Couldn't be happier with Holt and formerly Lollar. The reason I reached out to Chance is because I have a Dallas County ticket and my attorneys don't handle Dallas County business. Chance apparently does, or at least to some degree. I've planned to hire Chance for a couple of months but never have the ticket with me when I plan to call. Finally, when it dawned on me the other day that this ticket is still outstanding, I reached out to Chance even though I still did not have the ticket at hand. He essentially said he wouldn't help me unless I produced the ticket, incredulously claiming "there's too many courts in Dallas and I'm not going to research for free." Hmm, interesting approach employed dealing with a potential client. Had he been more diplomatic about his refusal, I'd likely still have hired him, but since the rationale was unprofessional and not something you say to a client or customer, whether true or not, his judgement is called into question. What makes this even more of a head scratcher is that I didn't call him to have him perform free research. I would have hired him on the spot, paid him via CC, and then allowed him to do his due diligence. Afterall, it is his profession, though he'd rather assign the difficult work to his clients. I don't expect anyone to do anything for free for me. I just wanted to hire the guy, but not only did he reveal his lack of judgement, but his logical reasoning was tremendously flawed too. Not a good combination for someone in his profession. If the job is easy, he'll do it. If the job isn't easy, he'll refuse it. What he failed to realize is that I'm a professional researcher. I own my own consulting firm. I often have to perform research for free in order to get an engagement executed and started. In fact, I'd spent about 3 hours the very morning I called Chance in doing due diligence (free research) for a proposal I was putting together. Just part of it... He tried to make amends when concluding the call, saying "but if you find the ticket, give us a call and we'll be glad to help." Uh, yea, right. Ok. I'll jump right on that.
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04 May, 2018 by Gale
Chase personal delt with me. Im a CDL Class A license holder who received a 72 in a 50mph speeding ticket in my personal vehicle. Chase explained all the known possible out comes for my violation. Charged me a nominal fee and assured me he would take care of it , without me ever having to go to court. And the only other possible charge would be an court cost of around $300. Well Chase found a technical error and had the whole thing dimissed, like it never happened with no court fees. I'm very grateful that he actually cares about his clients because he could have just went ahead how we discussed and left me with a $300.court cost, he was not gonna make anymore money either way it went. But thanks to his willingness to be through , I am able to maintain my great driving record! Chase and his staff are VERY Professional but at the same time Very personable. And at a Very Affordable price. Who could ask for more. I definitely recommend J. Chase Smith, he understands the importance of a good driving record for A CDL holder.
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22 Aug, 2014 by Robert
I have a CDL license and would recommend him to everyone I know. Chance will always take the time to answer my questions personally. He saved my license and my job. 10 out of 10. Could not recommend enough.
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Olusegun I. Asekun, experienced Child Support, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 55 reviews
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25,04
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4.2/5
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4.2
55 Reviews
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06 Aug, 2024 by Temitope sobo
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09 Mar, 2024 by Amy martinez
This Olu lawyer is a clown, My parents hired him in 2012 he supposedly fought to remove a voluntary departure and he didn't. He knew first hand that my step dad wasn't able to stay he had the documentations strait from imagination them selfs stating he couldn't stay. He lied to them only to keep collecting their money! I'm angry and someone needs to go after him because he has ruined my family's life's. Do yourself a favor and don't hire this idiot!!!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Josue cordon
Very poor customer service at a highly expensive rate. The information provided with the consultation was dubious and ill delivered.
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Krystal Ann Bell, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Arlington, TX with 247 reviews
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23,67
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3.9/5
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3.9
247 Reviews
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07 Dec, 2024 by Golfboy p.
After getting into my car wreck, I called Jim Ross and his main concern was my well-being. Jim and his group made sure that I had everything that I needed to get better from my injuries and at no cost to me including surgeries. The entire process was made as painless as possible all the way until the end. I am very grateful for what Jim and his team did for me, I know that I couldn't have done it all on my own with our same results.. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Jim Ross for a Personal Injury Attorney. He will fight for his clients, like he fought for me!!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Gentle bear
Very good service. The service I received was great, however, the other attorney for my ex wife dragged things on for nearly a year. My lawyer Stacy Alford kept me informed. I would highly recommend Jim Ross but you best have plenty $$$$. 😃
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04 Jul, 2024 by Nancy martinez
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Pia R. Lederman-Rodriguez, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 38 reviews
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19,75
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
38 Reviews
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22 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She did not fight for me her biggest accomplishment was getting my misdemeanor dismissed she kept wanting me to sighn every court Date she did not fight for me she is rude
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22 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She did not fight for me her biggest accomplishment was getting my misdemeanor dismissed she kept wanting me to sighn every court Date she did not fight for me she is rude
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27 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
This lady took a case for a friend of mine she asked the family for 10 thousand to take up his case, then quit and said she wasn’t helping them anymore she kept the money and gave no explanation as to why she was throwing the case she basically took advantage of them and when they went to ask For documents and get an explanation why she threw the documents at his mother (whom is an older lady) then called two security guards and kicked them out like they were criminals don’t give this lady your money she will take it and not help you.
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Jerry Michael Pittman, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 3 reviews
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19,04
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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23 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Jerry is a great lawyer, he took good care of me. He's really compassionate and cares for his clients. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing a good lawyer. He represented me in my divorce.
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04 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Pittman has poor work ethics and on several occasions did not even know where we were on my case. I felt more like his secretary than a paying client. He does not keep accurate information on file. I would never recommend this attorney to even my worst of enemies.
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07 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Pittman was highly competent, I felt he worked hard on my case and always answered my questions honestly. I have referred him to many friends and all have the same views. Excellent family lawyer, and with family law you need a lawyer you can trust and one that makes you feel at ease, which he did.
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Andrea W. Kelly, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 3 reviews
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19,04
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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26 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Do not use her for family law. She did work with me on payments after a $1500 down payment. She appeared in court twice a total of 3 hours and didn't want to talk to me at all after I lost my first motion. Ignored my emails to appeal then responds 6 weeks later after I had been found in contempt asking for more money to move forward. She talked more about her personal life then mine. In my opinion this attorney ripped me off and did not give me fair due process per her legal oath.
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12 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired services of Andrea to defend me over Family Violence case. After six months of wait the case was finally dismissed on the very first court hearing without any probation or deferred adjudication. Andrea and Karen (Legal Assistant) both are very helpful and prompt in their communication. Andrea not only helped me chose the right course of action but also provided me the moral support that you need in the times of stress and when you can't think clearly. I am glad that I hired her services to represent me and would recommend her undoubtedly.
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21 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I would recommend Ms. Kelly 100%. I used her on a divorce/child custody case. She was very informative and answered all my questions. I'd been too many lawyers in the DFW area and she is the only one i felt fully comfortable with. I am a mother of 2 small children that came along with me to my consultation and not once did she see them as a problem or "in the way" but interacted with them. She is what i call a TRUE family law attorney.
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Kathy Ann Lowthorp, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 9 reviews
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18,25
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3.4/5
Avvo
3.4
9 Reviews
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03 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Soldier, Law Enforcement and Attorney for 20 Plus Years, Kathy Lowthorp is Most Excellent... Arizona Rancher = Hung Jury on False Murder; To Charges Dismissed, Kathy knows the Law; Kathy works each case with vigor and resolve... RJH
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20 Nov, 2023 by Karhy
Don’t USE AN INVALID OF PERSON LIKE THIS TO REPRESENT YOU! SHES Tacky, TREATS YHE PUBLIC POOR!! She PUTS ON A COP-LIKE ACT USING HER PREVIOUS POWER TO THREATEN PEOPLE!! I don’t care what you were previously in - Army respects a Marine and visa versa!! YOU NEED TO CHECK YOURSELF!! Hope your business fails as you don’t know how to act right!! YOU DO NOT KNOW HOW TO CONTAIN YOURSELF IN PUBLIC AS I CAN NEVER IMAGINE IN A COURT ROOM!! Sit down biaaach!!
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17 Nov, 2023 by Dalfanie
When I tell you this lady is awesome. She got me reinstated and labor detail for the misdemeanor I caught. I don’t know how she did it but I didn’t have to do no jail time even after I ran for 6 months. She is the real deal
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Melissa Suzanne Mozingo, experienced Child Support, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 78 reviews
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17,34
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3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
78 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2025 by Wendy s
If I could give 0 stars I would, this firm does not communicate with you and will take your money. My case has been open for over a year and they keep taking my money. I now wanted to close my case with them and wanted my remaining retainer money back. Every time I tried speaking with my lawyer she ‘was not available’ but when I told the paralegal I want to close the case she put me through to my lawyer right away. However, they still went to pretrial using more of my money and have not given me anything back when they said they would do so.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Giovanni monsanto
zero stars. negative if I could. I've been waiting for months to get my paid in full agreement. The lawyer was late on getting me a prenup, then it turned to the postnup and I still dont have the document (over 4months and counting). The balance was paid in full at the beginning. My follow up emails go unanswered. This has been an awful experience and has now made me vulnerable which is exactly what I wanted to prevent. And now I am receiving notices of for payment when I have not been given what I already paid in full for. Absurd. Unprofessional. Scam artist.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Kathie ryan lewis
I have had several meetings with Donna over the last 7 years. I have always found the staff to be friendly and professional. My emails were adjudicated quickly and phone calls for follow up handled in a very timely manner. Aside from the expert legal advice, I found Donna to have great wisdom from her years of experience and she gave me guidance which helped me in the long run. I am in an excellent position financially (and emotionally) because I followed her advice. I always felt she had my best interest in mind and I am so thankful she was there to help me.
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Don T. Hase, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 5 reviews
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16,48
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
5 Reviews
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11 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I asked a friend who is an attorney, who he would hire if one of his children got into trouble. He recommended Ball & Hase. Mr. Hase went above and beyond the call of duty with my son's case, and was very patient with this worried Mom and her sometimes not so brilliant son. Thanks again, Mr. Hase!
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17 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Hase represented my son for a possession charge. He had the court date postponed on several occasions, which was a little frustrating to my 18 year old, but the delay was worth it. Mr.Hase was considerate, patient and kind to my teenager and we couldn't be happier with the end result. Highly recommend!
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20 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Our family found ourselves in circumstances that required competent, experienced legal counsel. Don Hase came to us through high recommendation. Don went above and beyond. His legal counsel was proven to be outstanding. His calm confident personality was reassuring to every member of our family. His experience and caring approach helped us traverse a legal crisis and helped us create a path forward. We recommend Don highly and would trust the lives of our family to him. That is exactly what we did to our great benefit.
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Lonnie Woods, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 2 reviews
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16,29
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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07 Feb, 2023 by Linda
Dr. Lonnie Woods was attentive, supportive, diligent. Got the job done. Trustworthy, honest, goes above and beyond.
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20 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
100% clueless. Will waste your money and time. Does not respond to communications. Not a competent attorney.
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William Brian Goza, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,29
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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20 Jun, 2023 by Thapa
You are the best!!! He knows what’s best for you and he’s straight up. You don’t want someone who sugar coats . Today I feel so relieved and all thanks to Mr. Brian
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06 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I have called office and left messages and no response I have called office and never no answer.
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John William Stickels, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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24 Feb, 2024 by Ty
If you want to load your case out get a maximum sentence hire John Stickels. He is arrogant and lazy. He deserves to be in prison with the men he helped convict as their defense attorney.
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Charles Uzo Maduka, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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09 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Right now, I can't imagine a worse fate than Charles Maduka being my lawyer. Mr. Maduka was inflicted on me by the Court. As my court appointed attorney he has never once acted as my advocate . To the contrary, as "my attorney" , Mr Maduka continues to disregard his obligation as my legal representative . He couldn't care less and remains permissive while my rights as a defendant reasserted by Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and fundamental and guaranteed by the Constitution are disregarded. It is on every level and it is obvious . He repeatedly asking me to sign inaccurately dated information. I could go on for days.. He could not provide one example of anything he has done as my advocate
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Billy Joe Scott, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Martin Ivon Muizers, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Zachary Dillon Hite, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Loi Thi Phan, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Yohana Mantrana, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Wessley T. Ball, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Rafael Sierra Jr., experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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John P. White Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Celso Vidaurri III, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Sheena Marie Winkfield, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Michael Lyn Gregory, experienced Business, Child Support attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Nathan Thomas Williams, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Jonathan Michael Moss, experienced Criminal Defense, Government attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Bruce A. Ashworth, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Joyce Stevens, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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0,00
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0.0/5
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Leland A. Reinhard, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Arlington, TX with 0 reviews
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0,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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