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21 Jan, 2024 by Marnesha gilchrist
02 Dec, 2022 by Kimberly womack
I closed on a new home last month. Everything was handled great!
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15 Aug, 2022 by Daniel omamurheme
Great title company, the attorneys here and workers have great communication skills and work hard to get things done!
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28 Nov, 2023 by Zakiya blair
Tyler Yarbrough represented U-Haul Co. of Central Alabama yesterday, I was very impressed! She is super sharp. Thank you Lightfoot law.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Chris cochran
Great group of lawyers.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Robert ware
They send threatening letters to small businesses without the current facts.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Zakiya blair
Tyler Yarbrough represented U-Haul Co. of Central Alabama yesterday, I was very impressed! She is super sharp. Thank you Lightfoot law.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Chris cochran
Great group of lawyers.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Robert ware
They send threatening letters to small businesses without the current facts.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Zakiya blair
Tyler Yarbrough represented U-Haul Co. of Central Alabama yesterday, I was very impressed! She is super sharp. Thank you Lightfoot law.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Chris cochran
Great group of lawyers.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Robert ware
They send threatening letters to small businesses without the current facts.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Zakiya blair
Tyler Yarbrough represented U-Haul Co. of Central Alabama yesterday, I was very impressed! She is super sharp. Thank you Lightfoot law.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Chris cochran
Great group of lawyers.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Robert ware
They send threatening letters to small businesses without the current facts.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Zakiya blair
Tyler Yarbrough represented U-Haul Co. of Central Alabama yesterday, I was very impressed! She is super sharp. Thank you Lightfoot law.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Chris cochran
Great group of lawyers.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Robert ware
They send threatening letters to small businesses without the current facts.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Linda farrar
My experience has been great. I had to learn to be patience and let them do their work. The outcome has been phenomenon. Lexington Law is very detailed. Thank you so much for working for me, and working with me. I am not where I want to be but I am NOT where I use to be. Thanks to Lexington Law.
God bless. 🙌
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13 Aug, 2024 by Kewana white
Company is a pure scam. After I canceled, my account is still being charged and I can’t get in contact with customer service because if you cancel you can no longer get in contact with anyone especially in a timely manner, they make it impossible to contact anyone especially when you cancel. Robbery is what this company represents at the end of the day and hardly get anything removed or resolved.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Stella dallas
They went bankrupt. Their parent company, credit dot com, violated labor laws and was charging illegal fees to consumers
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sheka dixon
My attorney myrlin earle is amazing. He always reaches back out to me in a timely matter if i have any questions. He keeps me update on my case. I feel confident in him taken over my case and getting me the best help i need through it all. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family that may need a great attorney. Thank you so much. And i appreciate everything you have done.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Teaisha dalis
Please read reviews before letting attorneys represent you. Mr. Earle handled our situation very unprofessional by not responding, returning phone call, no updates on the case, and not answering text messages. I would not recommend this attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Carmen brown
Great people!
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05 Jun, 2024 by Steve lojuk
Highly recommend!!!!!!! I would give 10 stars if I could.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tracy todd
He is the best attorney in Birmingham Alabama I recommend this man.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Michelle ritchie
12 Jul, 2023 by Kimberly
Ms Gregory is the Best of the Best. She will win your case with ease. She knows away around the law and is honest and compassionate.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Jessica
I waited 3 and a half months and she didn't even contact me once after stating the complaint would take about 2 weeks. I paid $300 for a consultation and that was the ONLY time Deb ever spoke to me. They took almost $400 of my retainer despite the only contact from their office being a request to reproduce original documents that I hand delivered the week before that they lost. Never a detailed bill, invoice, draft, email - nothing. If your child is important to you, do not hire Deborah Gregory with Crittenden Partners. Also, they never gave my original paperwork back literally losing evidence in my case.
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13 Mar, 2020 by Greg battles
13 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I didn’t care for Mr. White after my consultation and this is why: had nothing to do with whether or not I think he could handle my case - it’s a pretty basic case I am sure he has done hundreds of. It has nothing to do with his fee, although he is most definitely hirer than most attorneys for Jefferson county. My issue with him was in the middle of our consultation, he looked at me and said “can you even afford an attorney?!” ok, so I was on my way to the pool, hadn’t showered, & looked a bit rougher than usual, I’ll give him that, but that does not call for the way he looked me up & down then asked that question in a very condescending voice. If I couldn’t afford you, I wouldn’t have been there! So I hired someone else to handle my cases, he was a little less money and has never acted as if I’m below him or unable to pay for his services. Mr. White could use some “bedside manners”, so to speak!
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03 May, 2024 by Tone peterson
This law office is great they really do there best to help you
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29 Mar, 2024 by Crystal
Mr. Keller was very professional and patient with us during the process. Ms. Susan was very prompt and kept us informed on everything. I’m glad that we were recommended to them and we highly recommend Russo, White, and Keller.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Steven
I would like to thank Attorney Dr. Roderick Van Daniel for the help he has given me to resolve my case. I was facing a lot of issues and stress. He helped me to believe that I can fight against injustice and fight for my rights. I would definitely recommend to hire him to anyone in the country. Grateful.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly
I reached out to this lawyer for a very vital lawsuit and to my surprise right from the beginning of the phone call he was horrible, I tried to even have some compassion towards him thinking maybe he’s have a bad day and I even asked him did I call at a bad time and is he ok. Because the way he talked to me was out of line and unprofessional. My husband and I couldn’t believe what we were hearing from someone that has a title as a lawyer, he was very short with me and so rude, mine you I’m still being very respectful to him, and it seemed he was more irritated of me being nice to him, he went on saying he’s a the store then he’s out of state and he’s so busy and I was like since you are so rude and busy and unprofessional I’ll let you go, like we have the whole conversation recorded and when I tell you, I would NEVER RECOMMEND THIS LAWYER. To think he’s handling other people cases is scary in itself. Please do not hired this lawyer, he is Very unprofessional and disrespectful.
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18 Sep, 2023 by P jr.
I began my legal journey against my employer 3 years ago without an attorney or any legal assistants. I was discouraged and told by others, including other attorneys, that I could not possibly be successful in pursuing a lawsuit against the government and still be employed. I believed in myself, and I knew that I had the evidence to show that I was discriminated against, harassed, and retaliated against by my employer in my pursuit of justice. I was almost about to give up because of the challenges of finding an attorney who was not fearful of taking on a case against the government, and this is when I was referred to Attorney Dr. Roderick Van Daniel by a family member. Attorney Dr. Roderick Van Daniel was not afraid to take on my legal case which over a three-year span totaled three cases. Attorney Daniel was patient with me, he listened to me, he counseled me thoroughly on what strategies that he would use to obtain success, and he always put me in a position where I was comfortable. Attorney Daniel did an excellent job in preparing me for my deposition that I had for each case, his legal expertise and passion for justice was impeccable throughout my three-year battle with the government. Attorney Dr. Roderick Van Daniel never wavered in his fight for justice for me and he always told me we can keep fighting no matter how things appeared to not go in our favor; with his passion for justice and his fortitude in not being intimidated by a government agency we were able to settle with this agency and Win All Three Cases against the government. I am still employed by this government agency, and I am proud to say that there has been a tremendous amount of change that includes diversity hiring of minorities and women in leadership roles, and a more fair and equitable work environment which is attributed to Attorney Daniel efforts of exposing injustices in the workplace. If you want an Attorney who is not afraid to fight for your rights and a person who cares about his clients, and who is empathetic to his client’s needs I would highly recommend Attorney Dr. Roderick Van Daniel. # Million Dollars Worth Of Justice!!!!
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08 Apr, 2024 by Tyler jolly
As a business owner I would not recommend this firm to help recover financial damages associated with external defamation and/or an ex-business partner grossly misusing business funds. I had plenty of evidence to initiate a suit but the attorney consistently came up with reasons not to. I paid over $13K in legal fees and only managed to get a letter sent to one of my defamers which I recommended. It's my belief these guys only wanted to continue charging ongoing hourly rates to a successful business. If the firm believed I didn't have a case worthy of a suit I believe the right thing to do would be to evaluate the evidence up front and walk away instead of continuing to rack up fees. The only reason for the second star is the attorney was somewhat responsive to all questions, usually within 24 hours.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Benjamin lazarus
15 Jun, 2023 by G s (g)
08 Apr, 2024 by Tyler jolly
As a business owner I would not recommend this firm to help recover financial damages associated with external defamation and/or an ex-business partner grossly misusing business funds. I had plenty of evidence to initiate a suit but the attorney consistently came up with reasons not to. I paid over $13K in legal fees and only managed to get a letter sent to one of my defamers which I recommended. It's my belief these guys only wanted to continue charging ongoing hourly rates to a successful business. If the firm believed I didn't have a case worthy of a suit I believe the right thing to do would be to evaluate the evidence up front and walk away instead of continuing to rack up fees. The only reason for the second star is the attorney was somewhat responsive to all questions, usually within 24 hours.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Benjamin lazarus
15 Jun, 2023 by G s (g)
31 Jul, 2024 by Ashley delcamp
22 Mar, 2024 by Kenzie newman
Had a great experience! Very helpful and would definitely recommend.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Robert duff
21 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
This lawyer contacted the opposing party completely blowing my entire default case. She had no right and no business doing this when the person was perfectly served by Process Server her out of the way communication with the opposing party along with the Horrible Judge Nakita blokton kept me and my daughter from getting child support we were due for over 17 years yes her one act of stupidity cost me an entire case worth over $326,000.
I would never recommend her she is a Golddigger and does not care about her client, she even allowed the judge to berate my teenage daughter in the coortroom and shut me up when I tried to intervene it was horrible and abusive to my daughter, Alyson Hood did nothing. Furthermore after having me sign the Covid documents to sit next to her she not only did not allow me into the hearing 30 minutes after it started but had me sit way in the back where I could not hear a thing. Every bit of this was a travesty every bit of this was disgusting and terrible treatment to her client she blew it the bar will hear of this. She even told me verbatim that she pads her fees. Do not go down the same rabbit hole and indoor the pain I did I am begging you!
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18 Aug, 2020 by Michael
Alyson was outstanding in representing me a a PFA accusation . Brutally honest and very detailed. Totally explains everything to you going into trial. Highly, highly recommend in my opinion. Consult with her first if you need an attorney well versed in Family Law.
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24 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Alyson is extremely ….intelligent, caring, strategic, responsive, effective, insightful, perspicacious, straightforward, perceptive, intuitive, and adaptive. I hired Alyson for my niece, who had an urgent and sticky child custody case. She was a godsend. If not for Alyson, I am convinced we would not have custody of the child today. We can't thank Alyson enough.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Alex javier
Wonderful group. Dana is an absolute pleasure to be around and work with. They settled a case for me about a month and a half ago, and now I’m using them for another case that has came up.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Mrs. laura lewis
23 Feb, 2023 by Priscila denny
19 Sep, 2024 by ꧁s̸i̸m̸p̸꧂シ
Reply help full
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19 Sep, 2024 by Raed alsaidi
Cool guy really helpful 👍🏼
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19 Sep, 2024 by Maria contreras
Thank you Mr. Holmes for your great service. For handling my case in such a professional Way and also more than anything for keeping my family updated with how my case was going
I really felt at 1 point that my cace was a lost case and really. I got to the point of thinking that I had no hope. May god bless you!
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20 Aug, 2021 by Tonya
I had been turned down by so many other SSI attorneys he came to my rescue made me feel like I had someone on my side and he was able to get my SSI approved a very caring understanding compassionate lawyer.
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11 Mar, 2021 by Phil
I am a recently homeless man who wound up in the psychiatric hospital six times for suicide attempts.
Mr Weinberg took my case and got my disability in five months.
Hr has five star reviews and is well deserved.
I'm proud to call Mr Weinberg my friend.
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28 Nov, 2020 by Brian townsend
Had no priors left me in jail for months never saw him but when I went to jail and when I got out told and charged my family he was seeing me at least once a week and didn’t come see me once Seems like Doesn’t care about you or your situation just money
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Now that my divorce and custody hearing are over I am changing my review for this worthless Lawyer.
About one month before it was time to go to court after dragging out for almost a year he bailed out on me because I sent him too many emails. I would not have had to send 985 emails had he answered even 20 of those. Fortunately, my ex-husband and I settled without him and I am sure that I got more than I would have. Had he stayed with me. Do not be fooled by the fact that he is a member of a Christian lawyers society, because he does not function as a Christian. Basically all of the emails that he answered for the most part were ones where I offered to send more money and that is what he is all about . The final month of my case which was the most important I was instructed by him to no longer send him emails but to filter them through his assistant Brandy. I sent her five emails within 20 days and got no reply from her either. Then I got a message from him, saying that he was withdrawing from my case. I paid him over $6000 for nothing. Always beware of a lawyer who bites his fingernails to the quick and bounces his leg up and down repeatedly. He had the audacity to say that I had mental problems and I believe the two set above things prove that he also has mental problems , just beware. I paid him for subpoenas that were never done and for many other things that were never accomplished. He says he is overworked, but I say he is lazy and money hungry.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Shannon baseman
Mr. Joey Morris is a fantastic attorney. He is thorough, intelligent, easy going and thoughtful. Representing me in a wrongful death case, I found him to be immensely compassionate, understanding and kind. He is a true fighter and I would highly recommend him!
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10 Jul, 2021 by Wesley herrington
Mr. Cary, who represents me, is a great lawyer. He is a very knowledgeable man who goes to bat for his clients. There have been numerous occasions where he has found discrepancies involving my finances and I am grateful for that. He is a lawyer of integrity and he puts his clients first. I would highly recommend him.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Hube is a crook, liar and a thief. What a moron. He could not even do the basics of any attorney, complete ignorance about my case, leaving me to fight a battle he was paid for. He ignores his calls and lies every time he speaks to a client. What a scam.
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01 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Mr. Dodd. He was very kind and professional throughout the claim process. He explained everything in terms that someone completely new to this process was able to understand. He was very helpful and prompt with responding. My experience with him was great!
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18 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Hube Dodd. He was extremely helpful at explaining everything for my case and how the entire process would work. He was quick to respond to any of my inquiries and did everything that could possibly be done to get me into a deferment program and to ensure that I would be able to get a DUI off my record. Many lawyers are only concerned about getting their money, but Hube is sincere and really cares about his clients. If you want a lawyer that truly cares about your best interest, Hube is your guy!
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11 May, 2024 by Dalton browning
Hired this firm to assist with a legal issue. Worked with the attorney Larry Boothe. He was very knowledgeable, kind, and responsive. He explained everything to me and kept me updated about my case. He was reasonable about billing and explained all charges if I had any questions.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Ld carter
I wish I had researched him before I hired him. He didn’t show up for not one of my court days. Instead he sent an inexperienced attorney to represent me to no avail. They couldn’t even serve to plaintiff, but instead asked me to tell the person that they had court. He charges these outrages fees for any form of contact. If you call him, it’s a fee; if you email him, it’s a fee. Highway robbery. If you’re looking for someone to represent you, look elsewhere.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Debrah morton
He was not interested in my case. Ask me why I took care of my Ex-husband when he was sick an dying and we were divorced. He preached about people living together and that there is no common law I AL any more. Made me feel uncomfortable at times even laughed at me. Promised to send me an email with follow-up. No response to date. Bad Consult.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Lisa
I filed for a divorce with her and the whole process was horrible. My ex husband have a protection order out and it was never submitted with my divorce. Child support order was never submitted to clerk office so I don't get child support. The way divorce was wrote up no one can help but her and she refuse to help. Clerk office told me to contact her about enforcing divorce and she said she's not doing anything else to help with my case. I paid for services and I was willing to pay more if needed but no help. The language in my divorce is so confusing to the point that no one else wants to help. I feel like it was only done to hurry up the process. Don't recommend to young mothers with children.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Amy beard
Ms. Abele helped me so much! Her calm demeanor & no-nonsense attitude put me at ease & reassured me that everything was gonna be ok. Thankful every day for the way she guided me & worked with me.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Andrea davison cole
02 Mar, 2024 by Amanda mcgatha
I've had them on a case for two years now and it still not settled
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29 Nov, 2023 by Sonya bratton
Still haven’t heard back from them
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10 Aug, 2023 by Sylvia luft
Couldn't help with my problem.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Id rather just leave the Star rating for now. Each one has a different experience and it's up to the family or person.
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29 Jun, 2019 by Ashley r. scott
06 Apr, 2021 by Rashad knox
I was accused of Trafficking heroine .she was there the whole time and was more of a mother figure then an attorney she got all of my cases dismissed and gave me my old life back.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Crystal
Ms. Umstead was assigned as my court appointed attorney several years ago on a upocs case. She and her staff answered all my and my parents questions in a timely and thorough manner. This was a very frightening and confusing time for myself and my family and Cynthia and her staff did everything possible to put our minds at ease. Through her good advice i managed to go through a deferred prosecution program and kept the felony from affecting my permanent record.
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13 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer to represent me and once she received my money there was little communication and it just got to the point where she would not respond to any of my calls or messages at all.
My case never got representation through her and I could never get in touch with her nor get her to respond back to me.
And she did not refund any of my money back. In my opinion just plain bad business practice.
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28 Nov, 2020 by Brian townsend
Had no priors left me in jail for months never saw him but when I went to jail and when I got out told and charged my family he was seeing me at least once a week and didn’t come see me once Seems like Doesn’t care about you or your situation just money
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13 Oct, 2019 by Charla treviã±o
11 Aug, 2019 by Latonya elliott
19 Dec, 2017 by Stacy
I had 4 serious charges and was facing potential jail time. Sammie calmed my nerves and assured me that he would do everything possible to keep me from serving anytime. He was available to me anytime I had questions or concerns. After 3 years of going thru stressful court hearings and worrying that I may have to leave my family, Sammie was able to have all 4 charges dismissed!! If you want an attorney that cares and does an outstanding job call Sammie Shaw!!
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20 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I contacted Mr Shaw for some legal assistance.... Not only did he assist me legally he also saved me a lot of money by informing me of the proper steps I need to follow that didn't even involve a lawyer!
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24 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I consulted and worked with Mr. Shaw against a former landlord of mine for attempting to charge me for fees for an apartment I left spotless. He wrote a letter, scared them enough to change their minds on trying to come after me for damages, and asked me if I wanted to proceed with suing for my deposit. I told him I did. Nevertheless, I never heard from him again. I called, and called, and called. He never called back. I paid him to write a letter. Had I known he would take no further action, I would've never gone with him.
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11 Jan, 2019 by Travis
Was big on paperwork, but failed big time to represent me in court. Did not fight for what I wanted. He just wanted to get paperwork signed and done. My needs did not matter to him.
Do not use as divorce attorney unless you plan to give up everything !,
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03 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Guy Fullan did an excellent job representing me in municipal court. I would highly recommend him to anyone. His prices are fair, he is responsive, kind, intelligent, and knows what he's doing. I could tell he was very well respected by the judges and other attorneys.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I read a review on this attorney and was shocked that I too had the exact treatment. She totally engaged in case abandonment without client being informed, did not return calls, emails etc .
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05 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
She represented me on two cases one in St. Clair County and one in Jefferson County. My case still resides in St. Clair County, however, I belong to DOC and Shelia has me housed in Talladega. Will not answer my calls or messages. I have even filed a motion for reconsideration and yet she has still not even looked back into my case or been back in touch with me since my Jefferson County case back July 27th,2021 was the last time, i have heard or seen from her.
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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.
