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31 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Charles Mead (Charlie) is an amazing defense attorney. He has passion for the law and puts every effort into helping his clients find justice. Charlie has a calm and cool demeanor that makes him extremely personable and easy to work with. His strength and confidence in the courtroom is nothing short of impressive.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Philly pm
Super impressed with Anila and her expertise in law. She has been very helpful and thoughtful with regard to our situation. Highly recommended for your real estate legal needs!!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Luis a
We used this law firm for a quit claim deed. Anila was great throughout the entire process. Always quick to respond to my questions, however trivial they may have been. Very informative and patient. I would definitely recommend her and use this firm again should I have the need. Thank you.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Christen ritchey
Anila is an excellent attorney - responsive, efficient and does quality work. I highly recommend her!
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19 Feb, 2025 by Virgen zuniga
We have just completed a 7 month audit process, and we are beyond grateful for the exceptional legal guidance provided by Mr. Martin. From start to finish, he demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, expertise, and dedication.
Navigating an AHCA audit can be overwhelming, but Mr. Martin made the process seamless. His deep knowledge of the regulations, strategic approach, and attention to detail ensured that everything was handled efficiently. Today, we are thrilled to say that the audit is officially behind us, and the results were excellent!
If you need assistance with an AHCA audit, look no further—Mr. Martin is the right person for the job. We highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a knowledgeable and reliable attorney.
Thank you, Mr. Martin, for your outstanding support! Virgen Zuniga
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17 Feb, 2025 by Abdel noudali
25 Jan, 2025 by Kayla gerardi
Awesome place would recommend
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06 Nov, 2024 by Datie mancini
I highly recommend Bruce Silver as he exceeded our expectations with his expertise, communication, professionalism, compassion, honesty... the list goes on!! Outstanding results and a fantastic lawyer!!!
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06 Nov, 2024 by Tylore quintanilla
Amazing at communication and hard working. Straight to the point and strongly recommended them
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04 Nov, 2024 by Rachel romano
I have had a great experience with this law firm. I reached out to Bruce after my accident and received a call immediately with the steps that i needed to do, but most importantly a follow up call the following day to see how i was feeling. I was very satisfied with all of the staff and there communication. Overall if you’re looking for a trustworthy law firm that gets the job done then this is the law firm.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Hossein
I am a victim of crypto scam. I have been knocking on every door I can possibly find hoping I can find help. Most people I talk to have no idea what cryptos are and how they work. The ones who do understand and can actually help are helpful only if there’s something in it for them. The second they realize my case isn’t worth their time, they just cut the conversation short and wish me good luck. Having spoken to many of them and being hopeless, I found Mr. Behr. His knowledge about the crypto world is so impressive. Once he realized how much I have lost, he was kind enough to honestly tell me not to hire him as this would not financially make sense. I honestly felt like when my late father used to give me advice. Mr. Behr knew that I wouldn’t be his client but still took his time and explained the process, steps I need to take, people and organizations I need to contact, and subjects I need to familiarize myself with in order to fight this battle on my own. Mr. Behr is the type of caring professional we need more in today’s society. Thank you so much Ralph. You definitely made me think there are still good hearted humans out there. Just like you said: “ Winners Never Quit & Quitters Never Win”.
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08 Oct, 2020 by Katherine
Mr. Behr and his team handled my legal matters as professionally and expeditiously as possible. I would absoulutly refer them to anyone in need of their legal counsel.
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27 Nov, 2017 by Jeff
My experience with Mr. Behr and his staff was nothing short of phenomenal. I hope to not ever need representation again. But In the case I do. J would absolutely use Mr. Behr. I would also fully recommend him to anyone I know in need of representation.
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02 Feb, 2025 by Joy
I cannot say enough good things about this law firm. They got me more than I expected in my settlement and I was very pleased with the outcome. Everyone of the staff was pleasant, professional and kept me informed every step of the way. It was easy to get in touch with them if I needed to or they would get back to me right away. Thank you especially to Billy and Russell and the rest of the team. Would highly recommend them!!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Exzabriana barton
I absolutely love Kleinman Lessmann! I’d like to extend a personal thank you to Nick for all his help and support—it’s truly appreciated.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Rebecca valentine
Id give 10 stars if i could!! I will be recommending Nick, Gina, Billy, and Ian to everyone I know. For such a bad situation, this was the best experience I could have asked for. Nick is the absolute best.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Eduardo altamirano
Britnee was super helpful and patient when trying to get information on how to release someone who was baker acted longer than three days. Fortunately, he was released as we were on the call. Although the services were not needed, the initial interaction was pleasant. Deffo 5 stars.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Wenceslao guerrero
Atorney J. Hill could not have been any better. She was great to work with, great personality, very approachable. She got us a great settlement on our case. I would recomend her highly.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Luis acevedo
Amazing staff, very professional. As soon as i called they immediately started the process without delay.. I Highly recommend this firm Corey, Mark, Bailey, Alexandra i want to thank you for an amazing job..
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24 Jan, 2025 by Eduardo altamirano
Britnee was super helpful and patient when trying to get information on how to release someone who was baker acted longer than three days. Fortunately, he was released as we were on the call. Although the services were not needed, the initial interaction was pleasant. Deffo 5 stars.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Wenceslao guerrero
Atorney J. Hill could not have been any better. She was great to work with, great personality, very approachable. She got us a great settlement on our case. I would recomend her highly.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Luis acevedo
Amazing staff, very professional. As soon as i called they immediately started the process without delay.. I Highly recommend this firm Corey, Mark, Bailey, Alexandra i want to thank you for an amazing job..
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06 Nov, 2023 by Eddy ustarez
11 Jun, 2023 by Scott field
Excellent law firm with highly experienced attorneys. Cris Bennardo is a second generation real estate attorney who is both capable and personable. My clients and I have enjoyed his counsel and title services for many years.
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22 Apr, 2023 by John leekin
Highly recommend this lawfirm. Mr. Ershock was simply the best. Top notch professionalism and expertise. He won my employment case effortlessly and with skill. Thanks to him, I was able to help my entire family and get the justice and compensation I deserved. Highly recommend. Dan was just wonderful as well, they all showed care for my case.
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02 Jul, 2020 by Jacqueline
Charles Wender handles legal situations with honesty and the utmost integrity. He genuinllely cares for the wellbeing of his clients. Charles Wender operates with a level of professionalism and compassion for others that is unmatched. He is a man you can trust.
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09 Sep, 2015 by Maryann coberly
This man is the most honest and trust worthy Attorney that any human being could ask for. He was my attorney many years ago when I fell down 14 stairs and injured myself badly. He fought hard for me and he won my case. I would trust my life with Louis Alfonso and he is the most ethical Attorney in the entire world!!!! Thank you Louis for helping me with my case and all that entailed ...you are an awesome Attorney! Maryann (Hickey) Coberly P.S. I was remarried to a wonderful and great man named David.....
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27 Feb, 2025 by Todd kniffen
19 Feb, 2025 by Russell castaneda
Regarding a matter that involves a family cabin that was taken into consideration during the process of estate planning, Morgan Legal Group did a wonderful job with the case to deal with the situation.
Furthermore, they consistently demonstrated a high level of sensitivity towards any queries or concerns that were brought up during the process. From the very beginning to the very finish of whatever was being done, this ensured that everything went off without a hitch and that everything occurred without any problems.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Richard mcintyre
During the process of estate planning, Andrew did an excellent job of leading us through each phase of the process. He accomplished this by walking us through the process step by step. Not only was he extraordinarily comprehensive and well-organized, but he was also able to explain everything in a way that ensured it was easy to comprehend. He was a master of communication. I found this to be a very beneficial resource for those persons who had no prior experience working in the legal sector.
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02 Feb, 2025 by Joy
I cannot say enough good things about this law firm. They got me more than I expected in my settlement and I was very pleased with the outcome. Everyone of the staff was pleasant, professional and kept me informed every step of the way. It was easy to get in touch with them if I needed to or they would get back to me right away. Thank you especially to Billy and Russell and the rest of the team. Would highly recommend them!!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Nicole dow
Michelle is an amazing lawyer explains everything so it is easy to understand responds in a timely manner really works to make things as easy as possible for me she makes an unpleasant situation as pleasant as possible she is truly a blessing to the families she serves ❤️
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07 Jan, 2025 by Exzabriana barton
I absolutely love Kleinman Lessmann! I’d like to extend a personal thank you to Nick for all his help and support—it’s truly appreciated.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Robert mayer
04 Dec, 2024 by Farah augustin
The best experience working with Lisa . So professional and knowledgeable. Helped make the transition smooth as ever
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31 Oct, 2024 by Bob and sharon power
Adam was great!! He helped us with a traffic citation for our son. He took care of everything with concise communication and no stress on us! Highly recommended!!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Mary wadley
I am extremely pleased with my settlement! After waiting a year for my insurance claim with another law firm I was left in the dark with no answers not even a clue. So I decided to reach out to Defender Donahue Law which was the best decision. Not only did they call and text to keep me updated they got me a awesome settlement! I encourage others not to second guess with choosing the Defender Donahue Law firm. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Vanessa aulet
Patrick Donahue and his staff are truly exceptional. Professional while maintaining a down to earth attitude. I felt heard and was so grateful for the genuine interest they took in my situation. Patrick was kind, understanding and took the time to give me detailed answers to all of my questions. He also provided me with other options, even if I chose not to use them for handling my current legal situation, which I really respected and admired. This law firm is a rare find indeed, and I’m glad I was referred to them. Please consider them if you need these types of legal services.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Krystal pineda
I had an amazing experience working with Casey. She exceeded my expectations when resolving my case. She is truly dedicated to getting you the best outcome. I will definitely keep in contact!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Wenceslao guerrero
Atorney J. Hill could not have been any better. She was great to work with, great personality, very approachable. She got us a great settlement on our case. I would recomend her highly.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Sam
If I could give Ken Minerley and the Minerley Fein Law Group zero stars, I absolutely would. Hiring this firm was one of the biggest mistakes I’ve ever made, and it cost me over $50,000 before I had no choice but to walk away in the middle of my case.
In my experience, Minerley’s only objective was to rack up as many billable hours as possible with little regard for the outcome of my case. After retaining his services, my case was quickly handed off to an inexperienced associate named Ashley Adras, and from that point on, communication was practically nonexistent unless I aggressively pursued them for updates. Hearings came and went without any proactive communication from the firm, and it felt like there was no real strategy in place—just a series of filings designed to inflate the bill.
I’ve worked with many attorneys over the years, and none have been as disappointing as Ken Minerley. It felt like the focus was never on resolving my case efficiently, but on keeping the clock running to maximize fees. Thankfully, I’ve now hired competent legal counsel who are working to fix the mess this firm created.
I urge anyone considering this firm to look elsewhere. Save yourself the money, time, and frustration. The experience left me feeling taken advantage of and completely unsupported.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth hanna
Jacquelyn is a rare attorney who truly makes you feel like she cares about you beyond the case at hand. She is compassionate, communicative and driven to get the best possible outcome without cutting any corners. She handled my case in FL with me being a resident of NJ and was able to graciously handle all of the legal differences between the two states. I highly recommend her!
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25 Dec, 2024 by Sean
Highly recommend ! !
They handled our case quickly and effectively.
Always returned calls and email in a timely manner.
Everything went as planned .
Very impressive .
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24 Oct, 2024 by Bob benevides
Excellent law group who works with you every step of the way. I highly recommend this group. Kunal A. Mirchandani was the lawyer I delt with and he was professional and cordial throughout.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
This firm did not really live up to their word,! M.Mercado Didn’t fought for our case Like a lawyer supposed to do!!
Still waiting for paperwork/footage to be released to new lawyer
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26 Jun, 2018 by Jen
Hired to represent son on a DUI case. Felt taken advantage of. Only concerned with collecting payment from me and when we got to court he seemed unprepared, uninterested and was over an hour late for our hearing. We could have gotten a better result just by keeping our public defender.
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12 Oct, 2016 by Lindsay
Mr Litvack is professional and honest. I highly recommend him to anyone who is in need of an attorney.
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20 Oct, 2015 by Christie
Hello,
Steve Litvack represented my rights in a claim concerning a car accident.
His honest and direct approach was appreciated. Steve has extensive knowledge of the law, court system, and insurance companies policy and procedures.
Long after my claim was settled he continued to return my calls / emails the same day and provided helpful counseling.
If unfortunately you require an attorney please call Steve Litvack. He is above par!
Regards,
Christie
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24 Jan, 2025 by John levitt
Steve settled our case!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Greg rodi
I highly recommend Roselli & McNelis! From the first time we sat down together they made me feel comfortable with the entire process. Nick Roselli has handled my case professionally and with attention to detail throughout every step of the process. If you are looking for a lawyer who truly cares about you, Nick is the one!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Fa z
I had the pleasure of working with Jessica Reis and Tara Williams and I can't recommend them enough!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Blew me off. Had to give him a star to post this but in my personal opinion he is a zero. That's what happens when you call an attorney from a coupon mailing. Terse to the point of rudeness.
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14 May, 2020 by Ella
I've used Mr. Hoffman's legal expertise on several occasions. Mr Hoffman is an expert in writing up trusts, reviewing real estate contracts, and he can even fix a speeding ticket. I trust him completely to handle my legal matters. Highly recommended.
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17 May, 2019 by Gunnar
Barry Hoffman was excellent at taking a complicated living trust my wife and I had set up in another state 25 years ago and making it compatible with Florida laws. He and his associates were professional, prompt and kind. We have ARAG legal insurance through my wife's employer and he worked well within their guidelines.
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07 Jan, 2020 by Frank
He handled my matter thoroughly with care and compassion. A fine lawyer and reasonably priced.
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04 Jun, 2019 by Jodi
I recently had the pleasure of working with Steven Not only was he extremely knowledgeable he was professional attentive and compassionate about my needs I highly recommend him.
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15 May, 2017 by Lou
There isn't enough words to describe attorney Steven Miller's work ethic, he is knowledgeable, thourough, and straight forward. Experience is golden and he knows his stuff. I recently hired him for a difficult family case and I have nothing but great things to say. What an outstanding professional!
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13 Feb, 2025 by Regina ewing
Attorney Alan Ginsberg, and his Assistant Anna are great, what people need to understand is that Rome wasn’t built in a day. That means a person has to be patient if they want great results. I would give the two of them a ten if I could. If they take your case I believe they believe that it’s winnable. So, again thank you Attorney Ginsberg and Anna.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Dana olcima
Alan and his team are helpful and dedicated to help you with your case ! Thank you 🙂
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ana maria erkel
El dr Alan Ginsberg , me ayudo a obtener mi disability de una manera increíble. Apoyando antes y después de la aprobación y siempre atendiendo mis dudas.
También quiero mencionar a su asistente Ana Cohen que habla español por su gran ayuda y sobretodo siendo empaticos a lo que uno esta pasando con sus dolencias.. lo recomiendo 100 % muchas gracias Alan Ginsberg.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Very passive and not as effective as I would have hoped. After months of working with her and thousands spent for her expertise I feel as though I may have been better off alone or hiring someone else. Not much has been done to further my case.
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12 Nov, 2019 by Jen a wife/mother
Attorney Karen Velez is a compassionate, helpful lawyer. She is an angel. It is unbelievable that even now I get emotional thinking about how much she helped me. My experience was that I met with her about a divorce case. My husband and I have a child and I was done with the marriage. As a mom I was struggling with getting divorced because my child is close to her dad. Karen met with me at her office and then spoke to me a number of times about my case. I signed the retainer agreement and moved forward with the divorce. I told Karen that I wanted the divorce filed and asked that it be done as soon as possible so I could start 2020 out with the process almost over. Karen drafted the documents for my case and then we spoke one day to discuss the financial affidavit and financial documents necessary for the case because she was ready to file the paperwork with the court. I then had my second child and as I spoke to Karen to discuss the financial documents needed for the case, I was sad and also discussed my personal situation with her. Karen listened and heard my frustration and counseled me to pause the divorce. She said that it sounded like I wanted to give my marriage another chance and actually gave me ideas. Real ideas on how to take a couple of weeks and discuss the problems and situation with my husband.
That night I sent Karen a text letting her know that I was so grateful that she is a mom, and human being first. It was incredible. She is a lawyer with a heart!
Most people would not believe that a lawyer would meet with a client, sign the client, take the money and work the case,but then tell the client to hold off on that case. Whoever heard of a lawyer having a heart? Ultimately, I decided not to get divorced. I would recommend her to anyone! Call her.
She’s a lawyer you can trust!
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26 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Karen. I went to a local lawyer that does not handle family law cases that recommended her to me. I met with Karen on a child custody matter and had lots of questions and concerns. You want a lawyer that listens to your fears and questions and addresses them. Karen is the kind of lawyer that listens, answers your questions & puts your mind at ease. She was also available to answer calls at 7 at night and meet on a Saturday at her office if that is when you can meet. She was excellent in court.
Karen is a great lawyer. I recommend her to friends and to anyone with a custody, divorce, time sharing, child support, legal matter.
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26 Aug, 2019 by Alexa
24 Dec, 2017 by Steven fishkin
06 Dec, 2013 by John langers
03 Jan, 2017 by Alexandra
The service you get from the Perettine Law Firm is simply the best. If you want fast results from a professional, calm and diligent attorney then this firm is for you. My child support and alimony payments weren’t coming through and with one letter the Perettine Law Firm has everything reinstated. They are skilled mediators in delicate cases of family law and I couldn’t be happier with their work. I would recommend them to anyone.
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11 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired this lawyer over 3 years ago and with no kids involved and no business////// going thru divorce and im stil married , Don't use them they just milk you along and take your money !!!!!
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24 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I would NEVER recommend him to do any other citations for me or anyone. My court cost was reduce but that’s not what the agreement was base on my understanding. If I wanted to pay less I would of gone to court myself.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Jessica
We have no way of knowing who posted the last review but welcome the person to call the office and speak to the partners. The fact pattern you allege does not fit any situation that has presented itself to our firm. We welcome the opportunity to talk to you and hope that you call us.
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17 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Never hire this guy or his wife. From day one I knew he was not right for my case and fired him after speaking to some of his former clients. His wife is very arrogant and rude on the phone. Mr. Somera caused me to get six points on my license when he had promised me no points.
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19 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Moses in March of 2011 after being hit by a car. Mr. Moses doesn't keep you informed of the status of your case. He doesn't return in a timely manner. He makes promises that he cannot keep. I had a balance left on medical bills after the insurance company paid their part.
Out of my settlement Mr. Moses put a portion of it in a trust to cover those balances. He informed me that he could have the balances waived or significantly reduced and he would then return the balance to me. That never happened. Mr. Moses is still in possession of those monies. He has not informed me if the balances have been cleared, he has not returned any of my phone calls inquirying about the status of the monies he's holding.
This happened in 2011, it is now 2013 by now I should have some closure on this matter. It's attorneys like Mr. Moses that give the whole occupation a bad reputation. I would never recommend his services to anyone.
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04 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
When I 1st met this attorney I should have turned around and walked out. He was shoving food in his face while he talked to me, and kept answering his cell phone for personal calls. ( I DONT care if your son is coming home and you are going to a wedding and how much its costing you)! This attorney does not like to contact you via phone! IF he decides to contact you its via email. Me, I like to know what happening with my case. If 4-5 months go by and I have not heard from him, the least I expect is a return phone call telling me that you have no information, and not having your assistant send me a quick "nothing yet" email. Maybe I expect to much?? We needed to go to mediation and it seemed the whole time he was pushing me to go to court, that he thinks I could get more. He told me at the beginning what my case was worth. (I have read that attorneys should never do that). Needless to say it was less that 1/2 of what he told me. When I did aggree on a number he seemed upset.When I would get copies of documents back that were going to be considered legal documents, they were mistakes all over the place. When I called and of course left a message, I was told he is having a problems with his assistant. Well to me thats no excuse! He should have checked them! My name being mispelled?? REALLY?? I PRAY to god I never need another personal injury laweyer and if I do, rest assured I will not use Dan Moses!!!
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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.
