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15 Aug, 2024 by Isabel rodriguez
It's been wonderful communicating with this office. Sarah Wohlrab has been so helpful and attentive.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Monmouth associated
Sarah Wohlrab is Friendly, timely and knowledgeable. Accommodating to your needs. Would highly recommend!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Steel wilson
Very comfortable and reassuring counseling session.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Isabel rodriguez
It's been wonderful communicating with this office. Sarah Wohlrab has been so helpful and attentive.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Monmouth associated
Sarah Wohlrab is Friendly, timely and knowledgeable. Accommodating to your needs. Would highly recommend!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Steel wilson
Very comfortable and reassuring counseling session.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I met Benjamin back when I was an adolescent aspiring to be an attorney and he was my younger brother’s basketball coach. Ben’s family and mines would travel along side each other as our boys played travel basketball. We all bonded over meals and shared hotels. Ben supported my dreams and even let me tag along on his cases to experience the real deal. Who would know a decade later I’d need him to defend me, I was at the wrong place and wrong time. I ended in jail , and with 5 felony charges for a crime I did not commit. I was told I would get 3 years in prison and i was having a very hard time in jail that I ended up on suicide watch . Ben moved immediately, I was out of jail in 6 days because he vouched for me. He is a honorable man and to have him as an attorney would be in your best interest. He moves efficiently and effortlessly , I give him 5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend!!
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26 Jul, 2023 by Julie
I hired Ben at the recommendation of a friend to assist with my divorce. He was professional, savvy, and made the entire process so easy to navigate. I would use him again in a heartbeat and have already recommended his services to others who are in similar situations. The absolute best in Broome County!!!
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01 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Ben is phenomenal. He is someone you want on your side. He handled my divorce and custody case. He was straightforward, attentive and listened to my concerns, responsive when I sent him questions, and helped me develop several strategies to ensure my best interests were being represented. He isn’t afraid to fight on your behalf and do what needs to be done to stand up for his clients. He was able to get me everything I wanted (full custody) and even things I didn’t know I needed and wanted (a situation where I would be financially secure). He is clever, witty, excellent negotiator, clear skills in verbal and written communication, and thoughtfully strategic. I will be forever grateful for Ben—he helped me through one of the hardest things I have ever had to deal with. I trust him completely.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Alan
Sometimes things happen in life and you need immediate help and guidance. Sometimes this need occurs at 4:00am in the early morning. We were beyond lucky that Tom Jackson personally answered the phone at that time. Not only was Tom understanding, comforting and reassuring, he jumped into action and was there to represent us in court at 8:00am. From that moment on, Tom was always available and either answered texts or calls almost immediately. Tom's knowledge of the Broome County legal system is unmatched. He knows the players and most importantly, knows how navigate the system. Tom kept us in the loop of every meeting, hearing or conference that was happening. When all was said and done, Tom got our case dismissed with the best possible outcome. To say that we recommend Tom Jackson is not enough. Tom is an honest, trustworthy and brilliant litigator. He is also one of the nicest and kindest people you will ever meet. I am overjoyed by our experience with Tom. Tom is the type of person you want to represent you and his kindness will help you through your hardest moments in life.
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16 Nov, 2021 by Jason
In Aug 2021 I was charged with a DWI and failure to keep right after falling asleep and hitting a tee. I only blew a .05, I wasn't driving while intoxicated I was driving while exhausted. I hired Tom to defend me and he got the DWI completely dropped due to lack of evidence and I pled guilty to the failure to keep right. This was huge because I have a CDL and my insurance company would have made me pay back the medical bills which I'm sure were enormous because I had surgery and spent 9 days in the hospital. Tom was also 1/3 of the price of another lawyer I called for the same exact service. I hope I never need him again but if I do he'll definitely have my business.
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09 Mar, 2020 by Dezmund
I met with Mr. Jackson approximately 1 year ago after an incident. Which led to my arrest. Mr jackson sat with me and listened to my side of the story, explained to me what he thought we should do and explained in detail, and over the course of the year, he followed through with everything he said he would. I am more than please with the help and service provided by Mr Jackson and the entire Jackson & Bergman firm.
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13 Jul, 2015 by Laurie
When I needed legal help Peter, whithout a doubt was the best choice for me! He listened to my situation and my concerns. He came back with a plan and stayed with it. He is a dedicated knowledgeable professional,and a kind and compassionate human being!
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08 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Peter is a knowledgeable lawyer whose primary focus is helping his clients. He was able to walk me through the process step by step and thoroughly explained every aspect. Mr. Delucia was always friendly and available whenever I had a question or concern. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
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01 Aug, 2019 by Cherie
After series of incompetent corrupt attorneys I was fortunate to have Mr Serjanej as my attorney. He was a true advocate for me and I don't think he could have done a better job. I highly recommend Artan to anyone looking for an honest, competent engaged attorney that will champion your cause with every bit of energy ho has.
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31 Aug, 2015 by Nathan
He came highly recommended and didn't disappoint. Argued my case in front of the judge and got it thrown out. He is professional, smart and works for his client.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I was told about Mr. Accardi from my husband he was in some serious trouble we had already obtain an attorney and were not happy with the way he was handling my husband case I call Mr. Accardi and asked him question after question about my husbands case and he was so nice he never rushed me off the phone he answer every question and gave me great consultation as well as what he thought my husband should do. Due to my income being low I was unable to switch attorney's I wish I would have had his information before we obtain his current lawyer. I will recommend him to anyone he is very informative and extremely helpful.
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29 Mar, 2016 by Nathaniel
Michael Korchak,Handled My Case With Precision,Head Strong,And Determined To Prove I Was Innocent.
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20 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Years ago I retained Atty Scanlon for a family law matter which he handled completely professional and without making empty promises. We "won" the case as well as a transfer of jurisdiction to another state which is incredibly difficult to do in case like I had. I am pleased to be writing this review as I am retaining him for a separate matter and have full confidence in his ability to resolve the case to our benefit. This is an attorney that is compitent and confident and clearly at ease in a courtroom.
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01 Feb, 2016 by Aidan perry
cool place
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16 Aug, 2024 by Dani rose allen
Working with Jake was great. He was the kind of person that isn’t going to sugarcoat things and tell you what you want to hear. I need that, especially when it comes to anything related to my son. Custody court is hard enough for a mama, bu it’s nice to feel like you have support and someone on your team that validates your feelings. Even if the court doesn’t give a f** about them 😂
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04 Aug, 2024 by Damien ellison
The Best In the Business..and I n a certified Paralegal and he knows his stuff ..I have him now thank you!! May God bless you and yours.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Adam stotler
Jake was fantastic for me in family court. He was honest, direct, and available for communication. I’ve been represented by 3 different attorneys in family court and Jake was the best overall. I appreciated his flat payment plan and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone. I wouldn’t use anyone else if I need further representation. Thanks Jake!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Isabel rodriguez
It's been wonderful communicating with this office. Sarah Wohlrab has been so helpful and attentive.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Monmouth associated
Sarah Wohlrab is Friendly, timely and knowledgeable. Accommodating to your needs. Would highly recommend!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Steel wilson
Very comfortable and reassuring counseling session.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Treman shepard
Best lawyer in Binghamton. She'll work her tail off for you. Just be honest with her. And Mary Jane will give you her all to win your case. She made the impossible, Possible.
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28 Aug, 2024 by William lapoint
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06 Aug, 2024 by Mrs. yvette gray-davis
I love this law firm everyone is great and care about every case that is handle.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Jerry
Couple years ago, I made a stupid decision that not only almost cost me my career, but my life itself. While the mental health system as well as the justice system was failing me, Thomas Jackson's work allowed me to be the man I am today. It's been 7 years since I almost lost my life and was incarcerated for it, facing several serious lifetime problem charges. I now have a home, fiance and a career. My record is clean. I couldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for his practice. Thank you, Thomas.
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06 May, 2024 by Gerald leahy
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11 Apr, 2024 by Dana buckingham
Best around
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20 Sep, 2024 by Xena vinal
They don’t like to answer their phone. They also say they will call you back and never do their communication it horrible, to save you and anyone else looking into using them just find someone else the stress and hassle is not worth it at all!
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28 May, 2024 by Leah huppe
Don’t use them they cost us thousands and the close of our property. Terrible communication with all parties and lack of integrity.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Darlene bowker
made an appt 2 weeks ago for will, power of attorney. Went to the Binghamton office listed and they moved to Vestal. Didn't mention that when I called. When I called to make sure I could still come, she told me that they don't participate with this legal plan. I said you did 2 weeks ago! She said my mistake, no apology.
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21 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Awhile back,i got caught up in a Federal Marijuana case.He got Me alot better deal than i thought possible,and i liked the way He was kinda gruff and abrasive. Im happy with My results.
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24 Sep, 2017 by Mark
Kevin Guyette was the lead attorney in a complicated intellectual property law suit and I was impressed with his mastery of the facts and his knowledge of the law and trial procedures. He is an extremely smart man and I would trust him to handle any litigation matter.
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06 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Kevin represented me in a Civil Case and was exactly what we needed, someone who could vehemently pursue the truth of the matter and secure a settlement. He was easy to work with and professional throughout.
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20 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Paul is a liar and a cheat he is out for his own interests period I hired him to represent me in several cases he contacted the courts and had it so he was the only one to receive new court dates and such so I would have to rely on his office to let me know when I had court , he made me miss several important dates because I was no longer receiving letters to let me know when I had to appear . He also told me I had to appear in person. In court which was two hours away when it was remote so I could have stayed home and attended due to corona virus and claiming he had emailed instructions after he told me and my friend I had to appear in person I was the only person who showed up he made decisions without contacting me or making sure I agreed to them as well and these decisions had a great impact on my case and in my life as well. He should be disbarred !!!! Do not hire him he’s a crook .
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25 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Paul Battisti helped me w a minor drug offense in oneonta ny. He was able to get everything taken of in one shot and with a favorbale deal dropping the charge to a non-criminal violation, just as he said you thought he would. Very professional and an extremely hard worker for his clients I would definitely recommend Paul to anyone in need of law assistance
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14 Mar, 2016 by Stephanie
Mr. Battisti was highly professional yet personable. Where other attorneys were not able to help my husband as well with this case, Mr. Battisti came through. He is highly confident and professional. He gets the job done. We are very confident in his services.
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28 Feb, 2013 by Beverly
i used regina and she didnt like me so she tried to get me more time
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03 Feb, 2010 by Matthew
Top notch Skill is the only way I can describe Regina Maria's case management. I had specific criterea and had high expectations of Vilani. Not only did Vilani meet those expectations she exeeded them. I will be working with Vilani again.
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05 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
MR Sacco talked a huge talk about our case. Then didn’t fight for anything. He was happy with a plea bargain for something there was no proof of. He had no responses besides this is all I can do. He benefited from being paid and that’s all he cared about.
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19 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I don't have enough good things to say. I hired Attorney Sacco early 2016 for a criminal case, and from the first meeting he was respectful, non-judgemental, polite, and straightforward. I felt really comfortable with him. I had no idea what to expect, never having been exposed to any legal issues. He never oversold himself, and guided me on what to expect without making false promises. The outcome was favorable, and he was kind the whole way through. Over a year later, I contacted him with a request about my previous case, and he quickly and efficiently helped me through what I needed to do. Prices were reasonable, and I felt like I was in good hands the entire time.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Blewafuse 2024
Pure tyranny !
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22 May, 2024 by Ruvim niz
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09 Feb, 2024 by Jesse martin
this place sucks. I email and leave a message every day for a week regarding an outstanding ticket I’m trying to resolve, the DA is never at her desk, never responding to emails or voicemails. Same goes for traffic diversion program. I call and leave messages at various hours through the day, nothing in response. Do you want my money, or not?
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23 Aug, 2024 by Blewafuse 2024
Pure tyranny !
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25 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Never in my life hope he fails made my brother stay with a crackhead father while he’s paralyzed he can smd & eat it word to my dead
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22 May, 2024 by Ruvim niz
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16 Nov, 2020 by Tyler
Yeah his man threatened to put me in jail when he was supposed to be representing me. He lied to the judge for n an attempt to make his own client look bad. Isn’t organized and is a bumbling fool. He’s a public defender bc he wouldn’t be able to get clients on his own. Literally broke the law while dealing with me. This man is a loser. Other court officials In Broome County have witnesses his behavior and do nothing to stop this blatant misuse of the law.
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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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