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4.3
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4.9
27 Reviews
01 Apr, 2023 by Lisha allen
27 Mar, 2023 by Kelvin barber
Chris Mensman is awesome 👌 👏 👍
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22 Aug, 2022 by Alice fowler-mcdowell
Chris is an awesome attorney that fights to make sure you get the best settlement and compensation. He’s the one to call for worker’s compensation!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Christopher solomon
Very efficient firm. Susan kept me updated throughout the entire process. Very fair pricing as well!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Jaxon beck
Kris Perret is the best defense attorney in the state of Louisiana. Highly recommended!!!!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Gail scott
I want to thank Attorney Dana Brown personally for his dedication and service. You helped me at a very vulnerable, and confusing time in my life to get out of a bad situation that I had no idea of how I would recover from in 1994. Attorney Dana Brown, I am free today because of you! Thank you for your unselfish, caring concern for me, and for going above and beyond the call of duty to help me! I PRAY ABUNDANT BLESSINGS on your life, and your family and friends!
In Christ Jesus,
Linda Gail Scott-Carter
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12 Jul, 2024 by Lochlan dexter
28 Jun, 2024 by Kamden yisroel
12 Jun, 2024 by Enoch niko
15 Mar, 2024 by Jonathan lamb
The Ezell Law firm has helped us solve several complex transitions in the state of LA
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13 Jul, 2020 by Ned robinson jr.
It was great to have ezell law firm work for me they don't treat you as a number they treat you as family. LAWERS FOR LIFE.
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09 Jul, 2020 by Josiah cox
08 Jul, 2024 by J wilson
When one calls to ask questions about a case with a professional demeanor, the receptionist and the legal clerks are rude. Kelly Balfour does not return phone calls! Customer service is desperately needed!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Olga campos
Would not recommend, does not answer when called, takes his time to answer your text, did nothing for the case i hire him for, when ask him to go speak with his client he said he would but never did. Definitely will not recommend him.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany shah
Incredible defense attorney, amazing work.
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04 May, 2024 by Paul
Simien & Simien if you ( Ever ) need a Team of Attorney’s that can and will Fight your battles choose Simien & Simien From A - Z And all in-between Simien & Simien will be your Team and That’s From Experience and that’s standing on business
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02 May, 2024 by Keimyneh mackyon
They are so amazing and they truly do care about their clients 10/10 AMAZING
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16 Apr, 2024 by Andrea broussard
I cannot speak highly enough of Simien and Simien Law Offices. Mr. Simien and his team have been our go-to attorneys for every situation requiring counsel, and they have consistently exceeded our expectations.
From the very first interaction, Mr. Simien made us feel like family rather than just clients. His genuine care and empathy set the tone for our entire experience. Whenever we reached out with questions or concerns, he was there with timely and thorough responses. Moreover, Mr. Simien's transparency and clarity in explaining legal matters were invaluable. He took the time to ensure we understood every aspect of our situation, empowering us to make informed decisions.
Having worked with Mr. Simien, I can confidently say that there is no other attorney I would choose to represent my family and me. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than Simien and Simien Law Offices. They're simply the best.
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04 May, 2024 by Paul
Simien & Simien if you ( Ever ) need a Team of Attorney’s that can and will Fight your battles choose Simien & Simien From A - Z And all in-between Simien & Simien will be your Team and That’s From Experience and that’s standing on business
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02 May, 2024 by Keimyneh mackyon
They are so amazing and they truly do care about their clients 10/10 AMAZING
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16 Apr, 2024 by Andrea broussard
I cannot speak highly enough of Simien and Simien Law Offices. Mr. Simien and his team have been our go-to attorneys for every situation requiring counsel, and they have consistently exceeded our expectations.
From the very first interaction, Mr. Simien made us feel like family rather than just clients. His genuine care and empathy set the tone for our entire experience. Whenever we reached out with questions or concerns, he was there with timely and thorough responses. Moreover, Mr. Simien's transparency and clarity in explaining legal matters were invaluable. He took the time to ensure we understood every aspect of our situation, empowering us to make informed decisions.
Having worked with Mr. Simien, I can confidently say that there is no other attorney I would choose to represent my family and me. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than Simien and Simien Law Offices. They're simply the best.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Hugh ramirez
They are nice helpful people who enjoy their work. I hope the next time you're in need of professional support that you give them a try.
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02 Dec, 2023 by Mike pope
11 Jan, 2023 by Angela davis
28 Aug, 2024 by Deedra flowers
Very satisfied with the representation from this firm, a thorough consultation, transparent possible outcomes, and a genuine commitment to getting us the best result for our case. This team didn’t not lack in any area, communication, information, or representation. I absolutely couldn’t have found a more professional and caring team… I highly recommend their services.
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15 May, 2024 by Krystal guerrero
I can't express enough how grateful I am for the exceptional service provided by Longman Jakuback. From the moment I walked through their doors, I was greeted with professionalism and warmth that immediately put me at ease.
Their team of attorneys is nothing short of brilliant. Not only are they highly knowledgeable in their respective fields, but they also possess a rare quality of empathy that truly sets them apart. They took the time to listen to my concerns, understand the intricacies of my case, and develop a strategic plan tailored to my specific needs.
Throughout the entire legal process, Longman Jakuback demonstrated unparalleled dedication and commitment. They kept me informed every step of the way, ensuring that I was always up to date on the progress of my case. Their attention to detail and meticulous preparation were evident in every interaction and court appearance.
Moreover, their communication skills are second to none. They explained complex legal concepts in a way that was easy for me to understand, and they were always available to address any questions or concerns I had. I felt supported and empowered throughout the entire journey, knowing that I had a team of experts fighting tirelessly on my behalf.
Thanks to the expertise and diligence of Longman Jakuback, I achieved a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Their unwavering dedication to justice and their clients' well-being is truly commendable.
I wholeheartedly recommend Longman Jakuback to anyone in need of legal representation. They are not just lawyers; they are advocates, allies, and champions for their clients' rights. Thank you, Longman Jakuback, for your outstanding service and for making a positive difference in people's lives.
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03 May, 2024 by Michael digerolamo
These guys will fight zealously for your rights at all cost. They are not your typical plead down a dwi attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by L g
It has been a year since I hired Mr Phillip and today was the final court appearance.
Mr Phillip has done a great job and was always in court for my son. If I ever need his services I will hired him. Thank you Mr Philip
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany shah
Incredible defense attorney, amazing work.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Debbi t
Kelly has been our attorney since he passed the bar. He has always given us personal attention. We are happy with his work and the results of that work.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Will bring you down a rabbit hole just for more money. Did absolutely nothing for me and 10 years later I am still dealing with the consciences.
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17 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I was in a very complicated legal situation with very well paid attorneys that didn’t care.. Glynn was my last desperate hope who was referred to me by a good friend. I already exhausted all financial resources but still chose to hire him with what little I had left along with a payment plan. He took my case and treated me like human being instead of another paycheck. He persuaded the court to do what was right. I ended up serving a fair sentence for my involvement in an accident that many people contributed to but were not charged as I was. Without Glynn taking over my case I would not be here to write this review. I am infinitely grateful for what this man was able to do for me and my family!
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20 Sep, 2017 by Da
I was charged with DUI under unusual circumstances. However, I failed a breathalyzer and incriminated myself on tape. Despite those odds, Mr. Delatte was able to negotiate a plea and have the DUI dismissed. In short, he is a miracle worker. To me, there is only one DUI firm to choose, and I was lucky enough to choose him. If you want the best, you will too.
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18 Feb, 2018 by Pam
Use Joe a few years back, got the results I was hoping for. He knows how to handle business. Need a good attorney, better hire this man. You won’t be disappointed.
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18 Jan, 2016 by Joseph
I struggle to find the best words to express how grateful I am with the favorable outcome of my trial and to say how thankful I am for your good counsel.
Thanks, Joe-I'm very relieved!
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22 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Every encounter is different for different people based on the circumstances, but this is based on my encounter. Very unprofessional in manner and atmosphere. Another attorney made by the system, for the system. A poor representative for himself and a terrible representative for people with complex cases. Very untrustworthy, make sure to consult with other attorneys because this attorney is FULL of misguidance and misinformation, either due to lack of knowledge in the specific area or intentional misguidance. I have a strong legal background so I knew well enough to know what I was being "advised" was false and my previous knowledge and current legal representation confirmed that. Steer clear of this one, or at least reference check anything this guy advises.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Svetlana
Our family is grateful to Joseph for his work. He did a great job in court and my husband was given protection against torture. He is now free in the USA. I recommend this lawyer to anyone who has a trial in Louisiana! All the best to you Joseph!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
takes on work and takes payment without doing his own work. Doesn’t respond to calls or SMS at all. Because of his negligence in work, we lost the case
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30 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Horrible experience, talks to you until he gets the money, after you pay the money, you will only talk to the secretary. Joseph will not talk to you anymore because says "too busy". If you are too busy, then DO NOT TAKE MY CASE. Never showed up to court. Did NOT prepared my case either.
Una experiencia muy horrible, este hombre no debería jugar con las vidas de las personas por dinero. Si no puedes ir a la corte o si no tienes tiempo... No aceptes el trabajo ni el dinero y todavia tiene el descaro de decir "te vamos a demandar si nos sigues llamando a la oficina" Es un abusador de la situación de estado de una persona en necesidad.
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28 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired attorney. Owed $37k in back support. No fight, no debate, I walked out the courtroom bewildered and $60k poorer, every single penny I had. Not happy at all. Lawyer talked it up I would only pay what was owed. She didn't even try as far as I saw.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Gerardo
Very professional environment, they helped me on various cases regarding immigration, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Thank you Rusty & Lili !
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28 Jun, 2019 by Ab
Very nice guy, knowledgeable about immigration. I found him skill and knowledgeable. Thanks Mr. Rusty M. Messer. You people can use his service.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Miranda johnson
He's a joke. We set an appointment and it is 2 hours now and nothing. He never cancelled or rescheduled! I've been waiting for this Zoom meeting that never happened! My girls are important!!! This dude is tripping! He contacted me after hours after I had set up an appointment. I changed it to today because I didn't even know he did Zoom!! He said it was fine. And here I am putting of stuff I needed to do waiting! Don't bother! I'll find someone else that wants our money!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Alaina yaun
THE BEST OF THE BEST!!
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02 Mar, 2024 by Eva sarhan
01 Apr, 2024 by Brian
Called several times just to get an appointment. Couldnt even get a day/time to meet.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Shehzad barkat tejani
28 Jan, 2020 by Kristen knight
We are from out of state and received some excellent and thoughtful legal advice for our business. I would recommend them as a business attorney to anyone.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Brian
Called several times just to get an appointment. Couldnt even get a day/time to meet.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Shehzad barkat tejani
28 Jan, 2020 by Kristen knight
We are from out of state and received some excellent and thoughtful legal advice for our business. I would recommend them as a business attorney to anyone.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Brian
Called several times just to get an appointment. Couldnt even get a day/time to meet.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Shehzad barkat tejani
28 Jan, 2020 by Kristen knight
We are from out of state and received some excellent and thoughtful legal advice for our business. I would recommend them as a business attorney to anyone.
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17 May, 2024 by Brandon whitmore
Mr. Ligh decided to sue my family because we moved to a new home after having a house fire and his clients the Carrington Place Subdivision HOA chose to file suit against us after giving me 6 months to begin project and 18 months to finish and the Hoa pushed Randy Ligh to file suit after 5 months costing my family $3394.00 and this is how their lawyer and my Hoa welcomes new residents to the neighborhood! Pushing on us since we got here and why the heck would they file lawsuit when they gave me 18 for finish project and sue me after 5.🫤🤔we had a house fire for goodness sake and a very bad one losing everything! I’ve begged and begged these people for peace for my family because we have been through a lot our marriage is u set a lot of stress and this extra stress is going to end my marriage and this has absolutely been the case! One of the stipulations nowhere in the handbook is this a violating offense but amongst several unfair practices committed against us here is a few! I am forced to park behind a fence I’m still building because it “detracts” from our neighborhood when two houses next to me have vehicles that have not ran or moved since I’ve been there 1.5yrs and I no longer must park behind setback line it must be behind the fence that if I chop down would not hide my truck and they couldn’t sue me because the fence project would be cancelled not completed! Then I am being told I can not have patio lights above my drive way which is barely seen from the road and before they made me cut 4” off my gate it wasn’t visible from the road and why is everyone else allowed these huge arches on their gates but I found recently one HOA member said well it’s because they regret approving a wood fence and wish they had only approved rod iron bar gates because they want transparency but I’m sorry because they already approved it I bought and built the gates plus screw transparency because they violated even advertised my family on the front page of their newsletter which created a mob literally …like someone came to my house who lived 4 houses away and pulled a knife on me in my front yard when it was just me and my 8&10 yr old daughters there! Plus Hoa architectural board of directors lady came down after I called cops and she came to the rescue of the people who pulled a knife on me saying I cause problems all the time which is a lie because I never leave my house so I don’t cause anything and if I did while not leaving my house then what is so bad really…name one thing that’s a problem I caused and why do they condone the offenders who pulled a knife on me at my house in my yard and about my patio lights here is a pic that since I moved here I have made nothing consistent progress improving the exterior by far and i out every blade of zoysia grass down removed 4 tree and have the most beautiful landscape hundreds types of flowers having now best grass beat gardens and best fence and in this pic I decorated my landscape with lights because I’m a landscaper but you will see my fence that has a hidden tape light behind the 1x4 trim so it cast light down without seeing the light strip itself and behind the fence u can see the lights strung zig zagging across driveway overhead and they don’t allow that to me only and violate me only for these but the second pic is a neighbor a few house down from the president and he/she has the gutters with led lights already installed on them and they keep these gutter lights on that looks like Spanish town parade coming through every single day yr round since they recently got and let me say I do not care about their lights. I like the indifference character each person does and is allowed to decorate their house but if the HOA isn’t fining them in pic 2 but ruthlessly Pursuing me then it’s compiled with rest of evidence that proves them targeting me and I’m still unclear why because we came from a house fire so pic one my house lights over driveway and this was during Christmas 2nd pic free neighbor! so much stress my wife decided divorce when I begged HOA for peace and I lose my family
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11 May, 2024 by Chris white
I am very thankful for the law firms assistance. Very professional and helpful! Roper Ligh provides legal services in a variety of areas and is a helpful resource. Thanks for your assistance!
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10 Dec, 2020 by John
Much Thanks for pointing me in direction this site is very helpful if you have small questions and not deep p
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02 Sep, 2024 by Anita pikes
19 Feb, 2024 by Casey sullivan
Very fast and efficient
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08 Feb, 2024 by Stan martin
Another lost cause they can’t refer a lawyer for me
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marc o'neal
Franz Borghardt took care of a situation that could have had very adverse effects on me for a long time to come. I called him, he wanted to meet as soon as possible and he got to work on my case. I can not thank Franz ever enough for the hard work he did for me and my case. In the end, I am more than satisfied with the outcome of my case and now I can look forward to a much better future than ever before. Franz truly has helped make my life, future and myself better. If you need a great lawyer, hire Franz Borghardt.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jaymely elizabeth
Franz was phenomenal!! We called Franz immediately, on Saturday, he answered and began working on our case right away. The odds were not in our favor but at the end of the day, we got the best possible outcome from an extremely bad situation. He was able to take a potentially life altering moment and turn it into what will hopefully be a hard leaned lesson.
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29 Aug, 2020 by Davidharrold davidharrold
Paid Mrs Fay $5,000 to represent me in a divorce case . Showed up one time , did absolutely nothing for me In court. Promised many things delivered on none. Called several times, left several messages . No response. Would not recommend her . She doesn’t do her job. Poor representation. Will be hiring an attorney to sue her for negligence.
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12 Jun, 2019 by Karen
Mr Leblanc helped my sister and I probate a will. He explained the process as well as expected fees in the very beginning. I was unfamiliar with how this process worked and contacted Mr Leblanc often to ask questions. He was patient and responded promptly every time. He was professional, he sent us copies of every document he submitted on our behalf and within a couple months we had our Judgment of Possession. He did an excellent job and I would definitely recommend him to a friend.
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23 May, 2018 by Lee
Atty LeBlanc worked on an Succession for my family . There were several mitigating factors that gave us a very small window of time to get it done. We were stressed out and he was referred to us by pre-paid legal. He jumped right in did it quickly and efficiently. He always answered emails and returned calls same day. This is what I liked the most about him. Many attorneys don't return calls promptly. He does. He did an awesome job and in a timely fashion.
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02 May, 2017 by Ty
Stephen LeBlanc was efficient and very helpful with my divorce. He took the time to answer my questions. The fee he charged was very reasonable. I would highly recommend Steve especially if you are doing an amicable divorce and you want efficient work at a reasonable price.
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27 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
He was always available. He is knowledgeable. He was compassionate throughout the process, and he was there every step of the way.
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08 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
in the recently released decision from the LA Supreme Court regarding Judge Charlene Day’s suspension, Aidan apparently agreed to notify a 4th grade teacher to come to court and sign a document or be in contempt and go to jail. The report states Aidan agreed to do this but put the wrong email address so the poor teacher was arrested at the elementary school. Sadly she lost her job over the whole thing. Adjectives I think of when I think of Aidan are irresponsible, misleading, ineffective, arrogant, and in my experience, when you ask him about his clear screw ups, he mistakes facts deflects everything on to you!
Hopefully someone has had a good experience but that certainly wasn’t me or that poor 4th grade teacher!!!
Read for yourself!
https://www.lasc.org/opinions/2022/22-0886.O.OPN.pdf
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28 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Lazy is an understatement. This lady should not be allowed to educate law students. You have to constantly contact her to insist that she files documents in timely matter IF she answers or returns your call. Very costly for absolutely NOTHING. I hired Cynthia Reed to file my divorce as a result of her laziness, my divorce was granted in favor of the defendant because she did not answer his response to MY petition for divorce within the 15 days given by LAW (which she teaches) go figure. Of course all monies were due prior to filing, so things I requested in my petition weren't granted bc I was held in preliminary default. She worked against me, on my dime. Divorce was one of the hardest trials of my entire life. To go through something so life changing, you definitely want someone who has your best interest in mind. Don't hire Cynthia Reed.
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19 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
She does not answer phone calls or respond to them in a timely manner. You have to call her for everything and she will only keep you in circles. She’s lazy and basically wants you to do everything yourself.
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22 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
She was utterly unprepared for trial. In addition to her practice she teaches at the SUBR law school. All of our meetings took place here. I should have known when she missed an appointment that she had previously scheduled a d the rescheduled that she wasn't taking my case seriously, but she had agreed to a very cost effective retainer and I already had a trial date set. Although I filed for a custody agreement and made my goals clear, she ultimately didn't seem to be on my side. It felt more so that she was in favor of the mother getting custody that I should be satisfied with anything since I previously had nothing. I would not recommend her to anyone for a family court/father's rights case.
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29 Dec, 2021 by Dehaven
My name is DeHaven Duronslet and I hired attorney John Allen to represent me in a child support, child custody and community property case. I paid him in full $2,500.00 before anything was done. Allow me to testify about John Allen. This man did nothing, while my ex-wife lied about not having employment to try to increase the child support amount. The majority of times I tried to contact him on his personal cell phone or his office phone, calls were not returned. He also as a married flirted with my ex-wife while in court trying to get with her. I feel sorry for his wife. He blatantly lied to my face about filing a petition or motion to retrieve my firearms from the DAs office. When I asked, had he filed the motion he told me yes, however when I called the DAs office 3 months later the District Attorneys office informed there was no such motion. This man is the worst attorney I have ever come in contact with and he should be disbarred for negligence, inappropriate conduct with the opposing side and incompetence. I do not recommend this attorney for anyone.
I hope he sees this review and has a problem with it. Maybe this will inspire him to return my phone call.
I will be contacting the Bar Association.
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28 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I'm sorry but you haven't did anything that your client asked and there's always an excuse and promises were never made by this man , he or his off doesn't stay in contact .He has is terrible on picking up on calls and I feel as though he truly did nothing for his client. He was being paid and not doing anything the client is upset and wants a repsond
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05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
My husband and I hired Mr. Chester James Rothkamm to represent our teenage granddaughter in a criminal case, he refused to visit her to listen to her side of the argument, refuse to deliver document she was entitled to , waved her right to a speedy trial, never returned our calls and did not get an affordable reduction of bail. I asked him to withdraw from case after we paid more than we had agreed to ,and he did not, he started to ask my granddaughter for money by sending letters of request to our home. My granddaughter has been in jail without Trial since January 31, 2012 and we just another continuance until November 16, 2015 for another continuance because of Mr. Rothkamm waving her rights to a speedy trial.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Emma
I cannot recommend Harry Daniel under any circumstances. I engaged his services to file a post-conviction motion on my behalf, but he failed to follow up on the documents he submitted, allowing three years to pass without any communication.
It was only through my own research that I discovered the court had lost the necessary documents. Mr. Daniels remained unaware of this situation, as he did not check the status of my post-conviction filing. For three years, I was incarcerated under the false assumption that my paperwork had been properly submitted, while it had actually been misplaced by the court clerk. His lack of diligence and professionalism resulted in my prolonged incarceration.
When I inquired about the delay in processing my post-conviction, Mr. Daniels assured me that my paperwork was on the judge's desk and waiting for review. This statement was misleading.
Due to my limited understanding of legal procedures, I unfortunately accepted his assertions as truth. Consequently, I had to undertake the process of filing my own post-conviction motion from prison, as Mr. Daniels refused to rectify this situation. I have since filed a formal complaint against him with the Disciplinary Counsel. Additionally, he charged me significantly more than the standard rate for filing my post-conviction motion, and he has consistently avoided my calls, leaving me uninformed about the status of my case.
I strongly advise against seeking Mr. Daniels' services.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
