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06 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of working with Jana Barnett and Tee at Barnett Gill law firm, and I couldn't be more impressed with their exceptional service and expertise. From the very first consultation, they demonstrated a deep understanding of my legal needs and provided clear, actionable advice. Jana and Tee are not only knowledgeable attorneys but also compassionate and supportive throughout the process. I highly recommend Barnett Gill law firm to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Michael
I recently had the pleasure of being represented by Tom Gill in my divorce proceedings, and I must say, his professionalism and expertise exceeded all my expectations. From the very start, Tom was compassionate and understanding, listening to my concerns with great patience and providing clear, insightful advice. Tom's mastery of family law was evident in his strategic approach to my case. He was meticulous in preparing all necessary documents, ensuring every detail was addressed to present the strongest possible argument. His negotiation skills were remarkable, allowing us to navigate through the complexities of the case effectively and reach a favorable outcome. What truly sets Tom apart is his dedication to his clients. He was always accessible, responding promptly to my queries and keeping me informed of any developments. His support made a challenging time much more manageable. I would highly recommend Tom Gill to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and committed divorce attorney. His professionalism and integrity are commendable, and his ability to achieve results is unparalleled. Thank you, Tom, for your exceptional service and support.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Chad
Absolute professionalism and excellence! Jana Barnett and the team at Barnett and Gill have been absolutely amazing! I have gone above and beyond the call of duty to do whatever it takes to get results! I could not give a better recommendation if you’re looking for a family law attorney! If you’re looking for the best representation around look no further!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Jessica simmons
Such an awesome and down to earth guy! Super honest and didn’t charge an arm and a leg for a consultation. Would definitely refer you try Panther Law! Like first!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Bryan denton
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29 Jan, 2024 by William antonio urbina camacho
Dr. Alejandro Méndez is a lawyer who has a lot of knowledge in his profession. On the other hand, he was very attentive in communication. I will take it into account to recommend him to anyone who needs his services.
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08 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
On the advice of a local attorney, we hired Dawn to help us navigate a messy legal situation which was the result of our son's psychotic break. She moved fast to collaborate with the several parties involved, reach a resolution, and help us get our son back home. She was amazing!!
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14 Jan, 2021 by Lee
Dawn is intelligent, thorough, and well connected. She helped me navigate a difficult situation and gave me all of my options and her advice on putting my best foot forward. I am so appreciative of her help and I would not trust anyone else to help me through a legal situation.
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22 Aug, 2020 by Christopher
My car was backed into in a parking lot and the other driver refused to admit fault. After countless calls to her insurance company and no resolution, I called Myers law and within days had a resolution. Car fixed and money for a rental car. Thank you Dawn!
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27 Feb, 2018 by Jessica
I went through a hard time with a serious addiction that caused me to do things I would never have done if sober, things that could have cost me things I worked hard for (college degree, career, family). Ellis represented me and was there thru the entire process. Before my arrest, during my time in jail, and after my release while fighting my case. He communicated with my family while I was incarcerated and was never hard to get ahold of to get updates or info. If he couldn’t answer a call he made sure to call back soon. He has great relationships with Judges and State Attorneys throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas County (as I had charges in both counties) and was able to keep me out of prison and get me help instead (even though I scored out for almost 7 - yes, SEVEN years in prison! I can’t say enough good things about Ellis. Thanks to him I was able to get help, return to my family and young daughter a happy, healthy person with a job I love and recently bought my first house. I sincerely believe I wouldn’t be here today without Ellis’s help. He’s been doing this for so long, and is so knowledgeable about the law and what to expect, and how to navigate the most desirable outcome. Without a doubt I would recommend him 1,000 times over. If you’ve found yourself in trouble, then find yourself at Ellis’s Office and he will help you find your way out!!
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10 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
He is one if the best attorney I know and I would tell the whole world to use him. He helped me when I had problems with my brothers estate. I know /knew him as a friend and I never forgot how he helped me more than once. He is a special person in my life and I hope him the best.
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21 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Ellis has defended both myself, and my Son against serious Criminal Charges with excellent results. I have suggested him to defend other people I know against Domestic Violence alegations, as well as DUI charges. All were very pleased with the excellent criminal defense provided by him. His fees are reasonable for the quality of Legal Representation he provides. If you are charged with a crime in Hillsborough County FL, I would highly suggest you seek out a good criminal defense attorney. Ellis Faught certainly should be on your list, if you are looking for a good Criminal Defense Lawyer in Brandon Fl.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Chris
Intelligent, concerned, honest, fare. She spent months working to provide excellent defense.
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12 Dec, 2019 by Melissa nelson
Mark is the absolute best attorney hands down! He is very reasonable with his retainer fees but also is very honest with you and I absolutely love that about him! He is smart, funny, respectful and family oriented. I would recommend him to anyone that is looking for an attorney. If I could give him 10 stars I would!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Cathy starnes
Ms. Askew was incredibly helpful and thorough in assisting me. I would highly recommend her firm.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Isa toledo
I feel incredibly fortunate to have found Ms. Askew! I was ready to pay her whatever it took, but she declined and instead provided me with invaluable legal advice. Although my case is complex and falls outside her jurisdiction, her expertise was evident. She is highly professional and incredibly transparent, qualities I truly appreciate. I will highly recommend her.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Unbreakable bre
I called in today to possible set up a consultation. The assistant assume that I called about something concerning my husband. I mean truly jumped to conclusions. After me addressing Shameka she also assumed the same I never mentioned what the situation was or what parties were involved. I advised to Shameka that I don’t know where husband came from she got cocky and asked then wat type of case am I calling about. I mean u r a lawyer y wouldn’t u take time to figure out first why I’m calling instead of assuming. I will not hire this firm nor will I give them out as a referral. Horrible horrible horrible. The last thing someone in need want to hear is someone being cocky or darn near rude when seeking family help
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14 May, 2024 by Df carter
Above and beyond is what these people will do for you and your family. If you need help, trust these folks. Spencer is a professional to the maximum level, but he is a beast at his job. Thanks also to Erin for all of your help. I cannot thank them enough for helping myself and my 2 year old son recover from a profoundly traumatic event. Highly recommended.
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21 Aug, 2023 by Brandon
Highest Recommendations for Jorgensen Law Group! Jackie and Lisa where like family during a very long and difficult chapter of my life. I’m beyond thankful for the way they helped me navigate a contentious divorce. Jackie’s experience and mastery of her craft was evident from the start, and Lisa’s attention to detail is second to none. Jorgensen law inherited a complicated custody situation and messy financial battle, and still negotiated the best possible outcome. If you of your loved ones are in need of a smart, compassionate and highly skilled attorney, Jorgensen Law Group is your answer.
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11 May, 2023 by J
Jacqueline provided me amazing service! She is direct and to the point, she listened to your needs and fights to get your needs met! I will forever recommend her and am so thankful to her!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Richard godley
Can't find a better atty and paralegal duo...top notch
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23 May, 2023 by Thelma upshaw
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28 Mar, 2023 by Lisa
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jill
I hired Dan King to represent me in my car accident and I was extremely happy with the outcome. Mr. King and his legal assistant, Kim, exceeded my expectations. Kim was very responsive to my questions and if she couldn’t answer a question, Mr. King would explain it to me. I highly recommend hiring Mr. King. They are great!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Ray
Thank you Mr. King for your expert handling of my case with maximum results. My situation was complex and I was getting the runaround from the insurance companies. I am grateful to you and your assistant Kim. You were both always there to answer questions, ease the stress and give me confidence that I was in good hands. Thank you!
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06 Nov, 2023 by Thomas
Don't try to be a nice person on day 1. Call an attorney and make that attorney Daniel King. And then practice patience. If you think your going to suddenly become wealthy overnight, you will not. If you let Dan work for you if you really listen to the process and what realistic expectations will unfold. Then Attorney King will do his damnest to succeed and put you at ease. If was one of the smartest decisions I made, he talks to you,not through you. His team Cinda and Kim kept me informed calmed me down at times and let Dan do his thing. It was long and I needed to practice patience more then a few times, but in the end I was able to move on with my life with the realization of what Dan presented to me and the immense success he delivered in my lawsuit. More Attorneys need to follow in his footsteps.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
We ended up settling my case and my main deterrent for moving to trial was how ill prepared Mr. Reed was when we arrived at the deposition. I feel like he was not ready because he had to keep calling his secretary to ask her things and he did not tell me this was where I had to make a decision about an offers versus trial. The film of my accident WAS NEVER obtained by him and appeared altered by the opposition. When I was hesitant about settling, he was arrogant and somewhat abusive. A definite attitude. I feel like he was working for the opposing council, not me. Poor communicator and not very talented.
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24 May, 2019 by Melissa
Paul looks after you and always has your best interest. Keep in touch through out the process and l received a quick settlement. Highly recommend.
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01 Sep, 2015 by Barbara
finding paul reed and having him as my lawyer was like waking up from a bad dream he was just wonderful and I felt at peace through the whole process as he just took over and made me feel as if I did not have a care in the world. Thank you so much Barbara
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26 May, 2022 by Dori
Went through a terrible divorce battle with no guidance because it was all about the money. I am a single mom Who had a lot to lose and I chose the wrong attorney. Do yourself a favor and find somebody else. This man was more concerned with his own divorce and his new woman then trying to help the client that was paying him.
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30 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Communication could be a lot better his assistants say they are sharing information with him and will get a solution but this hasn't been the case. Very disappointed in this firm. Will be looking for a new one for any future needs.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Daniel
Glen did a great job representing us. He was knowledgeable and trustworthy. He laid out our options and consulted with us about his plan of action
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24 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This attorney will over bill and delay your case. Her general manger is her husband. She will have her husband perform work on a case such as appraise you house and/or perform comps for your home. All billed separately without the client knowing it is her husband doing the work. She will wait till the last minute to prepare for a hearing if at all. She hires her friends to do fiduciary duties for fees without informing the client of possible conflicts. Ingrid will use up retainers just during the internal case handling. When she moved she had to file paper work for each case and billed the clients for each filing even though it was her that caused the notices to be filed the client had to pay for the notice that were filed even though there forms were all the same expect for the case heading. All were billed the same amount. I would say 75% of the good reviews that are posted are from friends and employees that she either asked (friends) or told to post (employees) good reviews. Before hiring this attorney read all reviews. Do a little reasearch on the names. Some are from clients, probably the easy and quick cases. The complicated cases are the one Ingrid will stumble and drag-out for all she can. Just speak with her and you will see she really does not complete her thoughts and expects you to. Ingrid does this on purpose just so she can say you said that not her. Do you research or you will have no one to blame but yourself. I have personal knowledge of the inter-workings of this office.
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21 Feb, 2019 by Kim
Ingrid is driven,direct and a delight to work with!The lawyers at this firm Excell at all levels.Reasonable rates and reliable service.A true family atmosphere and they ALL go out of their way to help you including their support staff;) Thanks again! Kim
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31 Aug, 2017 by Tanya
Ingrid was absolutely amazing and walked me thought the process in a no nonsense way to help me divorce my "wasband" the fastest way possible. Two days after mediation I got the call at 3:25pm, I was officially free. I hope no one has to go through a divorce but if you do BLG will help make the best of it for you!
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09 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Several different reasons I would choose this lawyer again or recommend to family and friends- he was fair in price and worked with me, honest as the day is long and real down to earth and it was easy to talk and discuss the specifics of my case. Made time and was reliable and really knows his stuff - and it showed and it prevailed.
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15 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Please stay away from this lawyer. He is a liar and a deceiver and will take you for every dime you have if he can. After being taken for over $7K, and getting absolutely nowhere in my divorce case, I had to seek another attorney. He is a manipulator and was even arrested for battery, domestic violence against either his ex wife or ex girlfriend in January of 2016. This guy is no good.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Chris tucker
My Son got into an accident in a vehicle I owned. The Insurance had expired, and he was not supposed to be driving it. Mercury Insurance Company had to pay the claim from the vehicle he hit, and then came after me to get reimbursed for their money. I hired Doug, and after telling me very clearly of all my options, he was able to negotiate a compromise payment that not only paid for his services, but saved me a lot of money. Doug was able to explain legal stuff to me so I could understand it, and was very easy to talk with. IMHO, he did an excellent job, and made the very best out of what could easily have been a very bad situation for me.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  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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