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26 Feb, 2025 by Charis g
11 Apr, 2023 by Erick whitaker
16 Feb, 2023 by Joshua wright
11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
Read more
08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
For two almost three years, countless nights of no sleep worried and stressing about my open case. With multiple life ruining charges, King Coby stayed grounded in his believes, that trusting in him will be enough to bring the judgement that I needed to move forward with my life. I trusted him with my life and I’m thankful I did.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Bianca
Jacoby is an excellent attorney ! He’s very professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. I was referred to him and I'm glad he was able to handle my case. I highly recommend him!
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13 Nov, 2021 by Kenya
Fukk Jacoby Hudson im still on probation rite nah today for sumin he had proof that I wasn't guilty of. I paid him 1500 to fight a 4 oz of Marijuana charge and i got 8month in jail and 5 yrs probation, and this was i. 2016 He came to meet me in jail with sleep in face slob on hes face from sleep collar disarray crust in his eyes. I cud go on but this should be enough for you to understand he ain't it.. I stand beside wit i say from the very bottom of my heart P.S
#FUKKYOUJACOBYHUDSON
Yours Truly
Kenya Boyd
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07 Jan, 2025 by Jamilah middlebrooks
Charged over $4k to file a document to open an estate case. I had to hire a different attorney to correct the fact that the wrong document was filed and to finish the estate. If I knew what I know now, I would've gone elsewhere. Ms. Hood was not pleasant and overcharged me during a very sensitive time in my life. It will be very hard to forget. Unfortunately, access to AI platforms was not available at the time, but I highly recommend incorporating instead.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Kelsey taylor
We were referred over by a family friend. After speaking with a couple of other attorneys, we decided to go with Hood Law Group. Mr & Mrs Hood explained the process and answered each question we had expeditiously. Their Sr Paralegal is EXTREMELY knowledgeable and was able to navigate our case with ease as well. Thanks for the hard work!!!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Aesha
I had an exceptional experience with The Hood Law Group. From the very first consultation, they were professional, attentive, and thorough in understanding my case. Their team kept me informed every step of the way, providing clear guidance and timely updates. The attention to detail and dedication to achieving the best outcome truly set them apart. I couldn’t be more pleased with the result, and I highly recommend The Hood Law Group to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation. They exceeded all my expectations!
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06 Sep, 2022 by Daniel morantew
I highly recommend to stay away from William Matos. I hired this guy to represent me for my daughter’s custody and child support. This guy will be nice and sweet to take your money at first but after that, he will throw you in the pile of unhappy and unpleased customers he has. It’s a fact, I’m not saying this out of anger - the person of recommended him to me also had a huge delay on their case due to their incompetence, if she had not called, she wouldn’t even know that her case was just sitting somewhere on the pile and not submitted for a hearing yet.
As my case was pending, I kept sending text messages to William asking for suggestions or status on my case - yet he will take long to respond, no response, or providing vague responses. No professional communication whatsoever.
The day my second payment was due, one of his employees call me to collect the money, so I provided her with my CC(shouldn’t have) and asked his assistant to respond to my messages but never got back to me.
I never felt this guy represented me at all. Apart from filing papers to court( I could’ve done this myself), he did nothing else. So, today he got fired and told me “thank goodness, you are your worst enemy” what kind of professional lawyer says this to an unhappy client.
Requested a refund but he would not provide me the amount that he will refund. I guess I can keep you all updated to see if he was, AT LEAST, fair with his refund.
Remember stay away and look at the negative reviews on here! They are mostly related to his poor communication skill! I just think he does not have the bandwidth to handle all the cases he has.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Jmae
Atty Matos is an unreliable ineffective communicator ever defense counsel with my nephew criminal case in Clayton County Judicial System. My nephew has been incarcerated for at total of 32 months to the date before that and the pandemic it was nine months and Matos did nothing to counsel or talk to my nephew until he was locked up for 20 months And-by this time the pandemic was in full blown so no court dockets for trial. Matos has been trying to get my nephew to make a plea instead of trying the case. That is how all these public defense lawyers are. They don’t know how to try a case these days and especially for black kids. All the asking their clients to do a plea and no jail time served just want him in jail for 31 months and not count against his time to do in prison for nothing sounds like slavery in the prison plantation again, blacks doing time filling up these prisons for crimes that do not cause time in prison, theft by taking this crime is no prison time however if you black, yes. Matos told me not to contact him again so I informed my nephew and so my nephew tried to communicate with Matos since June2021 and to this date Nov3rd 2021 no communication. This attorney Matos, a public Defender counsel has not fulfilled his obligation to his client my nephew at all bc he has been locked up with a trial date on any docket in Clayton county judicial system. I can see why black kids are so negative about this corrupted judicial system that humans are doing to humans. It’s not the system,it’s people in these positions that are corrupted. Try my nephew case and stop informing him to plea we can’t afford to get him out of jail on bond which is$30,000.00 and we need to pay $3500.00 to a bonding company. We own property however one other relative won’t sign to get him release however Matos should place him on a docket for trial so he can plea guilty for one case
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13 Feb, 2017 by Rochelle osborne
My son was charged with a criminal case in Clayton county. Mr. Matos ensured me that my son would be ok and he was true to his word. Would definitely recommend him...
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04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
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20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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19 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Where do I begin expressing the grief I experienced with my wife when dealing with your firm? It started in April after the accident, your firm displayed glimpses of promise. In the first couple of weeks, you all got the information about our case in a timely fashion and communicated with us fairly well. While I know it isn't your responsibility to handle the property damage portion of our case, you offered very little advice (like other firms do) to remedy the situation. Thank God we got our vehicle repaired quickly thanks to the Insurance company. The bad part of our experience was, your firm lacks communication skills. Plain and simple. We waited for weeks and months to learn most of the details about our case. The legal assistant (Nicole Starks) NEVER got back to us in a timely manner. She literally went on vacation and didn't let us know what was going on and couldn't care less if we knew. We were left in the dark MOST OF THE TIME, wondering and not knowing. I feel as though this process should have been completed MONTHS AGO. When too much time had gone by, we were given EXCUSES and blame towards a well-known insurance company that is known for being professional and prompt in their dealings. "The insurance company wants more information", we call BS! Based on the lethargic and inept performance of the Founders team, we have no other resolve but to feel that it was a failure on the law firm's part. My wife completed her treatments and the case should have been wrapped up soon after. When I say soon, I do understand that it takes a reasonable amount of time for completion, but ALMOST 90 MORE DAYS??? One word, TERRIBLE. The worst part is that after waiting for all of that time, we received a paltry settlement. Wow. So, to conclude, I wouldn't recommend your firm for anything, not even a dog bite. You should fire your whole staff. Their nonchalant and uncaring attitude is displayed very well. On the phone, we can feel that they really don't give a damn. They have their rehearsed answers ready to extinguish any questions asked of them by clients who NEED A GOOD ATTORNEY and need true answers. Also, "They are on another call, can I have them call you back," is another line we were often given when Nicole Starks didn't want to be bothered or had no answer. If I am ever asked about your firm I will tell them about my horrible experience. And will recommend they go elsewhere.
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04 Oct, 2019 by Melvin
They was very good and efficient. I got a nice settlement back. All my medical bill was taken care of and I have no complaints. They are very good at what they do.
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05 Sep, 2019 by Karen
I had a great experience and they help me with my case and I am very pleased with the results
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15 Nov, 2022 by Yuric ussery
Very busy but very representable lack of communication do to cases but get you exactly what you are looking for when it comes to criminal defenses
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23 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Mi familia contrato a ese señor para un caso super sencillo y solamente responde los mensajes cuando quiere mas dinero de lo contrario nunca responde ni el teléfono ni los mensajes, mi recomendacion es mantenganse alejados de este señor.
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11 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr melnick a.k.a john wick is a great lawyer he definitely makes it happen never fails im thankful for him been using him for years now really good lawyer .
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
Read more
08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
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20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Haitian doll
VERY RUDE!
Whoever followed up the call when after I called is very rude.
Hire someone who is not rude & maybe i will consider paying for your services!
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21 Aug, 2023 by Rebecca dempsey
I asked if the firm charges for consultations. The receptionist did not know. When I said I would want to know your fee structure before continuing, she got mad and hung up on me!
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20 Jul, 2021 by Ousmane kaba
11 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
vile and cold- hearted. do not recommend for anything. Does not listen very well. She needs another line of work.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I was recommended to her but if you have never had an attorney, don't let her be your first. She is impossible to reach - like you will not get an email back (which she prefers over calls/texts). She is overly busy which makes her come off to clients as very cold. She talks to you like a child/dumb when answering questions at times as well.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Try to use her status to get special treatment.
Stated that she was happy that my child had passed away. I do not recommend to no one !
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04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Ashley
ANSWER THE PHONE. This is outrageous what you put VICTIMS through just to find any crumb of information on their own cases that have stayed in limbo for YEARS. Meanwhile, FELONY ABUSERS are on the loose as they also await this court date.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Alicia mcintosh
My case has been i limbo for over 2 years now. No communication, No verification, no court dates, no judge, no updates. The other person has a bond on them, however they call my family member and stated they was getting out. When I called the DA office no one every answer the phone. Then when I go down to the court on my own time, I have to go to the records department just to see what has happened to the case and to see if there is a court date coming up. I also I went to the DA office trying to speak with someone about these issues and I can speak with anyone but the front desk who is just a confused about who is the DA on the case and confused about the notes on the case. THIS IS THE WORST...... I couldn't even get victims services to help me or to get information on my case nor updates.....LIKE I SAID THE WORST IN HISTORY......
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tim hazelwood
Big Fani is interested in only one thing—furthering herself. Principles, values and ethics are foreign to her and to her office. May she be primaried soon!
Read more
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
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What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
