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27 Sep, 2019 by Thomas
I hired Mr. Nolan in 2009 with 3 counts of Aggravated Assault on Police Officer’s! Not a light case but very serious charges. I received Pre-Trial intervention and saved my job!!! Mr. Nolan is very direct, and brutally honest with his clients! He Makes No Promises. So do not lie to him, you only screw yourselves! He is very caring and understanding and really fights for his Clients!!!
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14 Jun, 2018 by Gabrielle
Michael Nolan represented me when the Office of Administrative Law REVERSED their determination on the RREM grant I had already received and used to rebuild my home. Right from the beginning of the process Mr. Nolan took my case seriously and worked very hard to help me prove that I was truly eligible. He was knowledgeable, organized, professional and compassionate. He explained my possible outcomes and did not make any promises. He worked very hard on my behalf and the case was settled in my favor. I feel very lucky to have had such a terrific attorney on my side.
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13 Jun, 2018 by Gerry
Mr. Nolan had done a fantastic job regarding my case. Very down-to-earth personality, yet very professional and informed.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Ryan
Nick resolved one legal matter for me years ago and I've gone to him for business consultations multiple times since. Each of those experiences has been perfect, to the point whenever someone in my personal life has a legal issue, I send them to Nick.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Pete
We had the pleasure of having Nick represent my wife in a very serious matter where a DWI was alleged. The penalty would have been 6 months of jail time and all sorts of other things. Nick was able to scrutinize the discovery and find flaws in the state's case--enough that the prosecutor decided to drop that charge and my wife pleaded to a lesser charge which kept her out of jail. He even fought to try to have them drop that charge, but the prosecutor wouldn't. All in all, we are happy with the outcome. Personality-wise, Nick takes a keen interest in his clients and values them as individuals. You would think you were talking to a long-time friend. He listens carefully to you, appraises the legal angles of everything in your case, and in his own prosecutorial experience is able to make a good assessment of how the case can/will go. We were so pleased that we are going to use him anytime we may have other matters that arise. You can't go wrong when your attorney is a real human being with a heart.
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08 Mar, 2018 by Will
Nick was an exceptional attorney. He was very professional and I think being an ex-prosecutor helps with the relationships he has developed during his career... he knew everyone in the courthouse at my hearing. He was very well-spoken when presenting my case as well, a lot better than the other attorneys that represented other clients. Highly recommend using his services.
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19 Aug, 2015 by Glen
We needed an attorney to defend our son in a Paraphernalia Possession Crime Case. That charge being on a young persons record could end up being a big problem when applying to schools and applying for a job. Michael helped us through the entire process. We were debating the "need" for an attorney and we can honestly say, that after going through the process, we are extremely thankful that Michael was with our son. Michael kept us up to speed the entire way and the outcome could not have been better.
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13 May, 2015 by Thomas
Mr. Schaller was an excellent attorney. He put everything into perspective and kept me informed at every turning point in my case with expected outcomes. Very informative, excellent knowledge and insight during my case. The best day was when I first spoke with Mr. Schaller I was a full time student, working full time with many questions and worried about my case. His response was one the I will never forget..."You need to stop worrying about this, your retaining me now to worry about this part of your life, take care of school and your family". From start to finish he was always available, professional and tremendous assesst on my team during this event in a very trying time of my life. For this I am extremely grateful.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Michael
He was a great lawyer. He always contacted me when he heard something new about court and always kept me in the loop I would recommend mike to any of my friends or family if they needed a lawyer
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03 Oct, 2019 by George
Richard was extremely knowledgeable in traffic violations law. He took his time and throughly explained all my options in a way that I understood. Richard is a great listener and he very patiently answered all of my questions. If you have any traffic or moving violations, I highly recommend retaining Richard Gregory. He is not only very friendly and personable but highly competent and experienced I already referred my best friend to retain him for a moving violation.
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23 May, 2019 by Akiva
I hired Mr. Gregory to represent me for improper passing of a school bus. He was friendly, professional and very clear throughout the entire process. He gave me as much time as I needed every time we spoke. I'm very happy that I hired Mr Gregory as my lawyer and would do so again if need be. I highly recommend him.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Glenn
I found Mr. Gregory to be a very professional and highly effective attorney. He handled a careless driving charge for me and had the charge and fine reduced far below what I had expected.
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22 Jul, 2015 by Rich
Living out of State, Mr. Ducey represented me in a claim against my PIP insurance company in New Jersey. He was very thorough in collecting all relevant information and extremely familiar with the rules of Forthright. New Jersey automobile insurance law requires that all automobile insurers provide those who are covered with the option of submitting a dispute concerning personal injury protection benefits to binding arbitration. My claim involved medical bills which were denied payment to the provider even though the insurance company had been paying them for years. Mr. Ducey presented my case in arbitration which resulted in a ruling concluding the claims and future claims involved in my complaint were medically necessary. I would definitely recommend Mr. Ducey and would use him again if needed.
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05 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I have hired John for a matter with my 17 year old Daughter and he is an excellent and compassionate Attorney. He was at court early and spoke to the prosecutor and had everything panned out early. He is awesome. I referred him to another friend of mine and he also did the same. In all, he is the best Attorney by Far. I will use him ALWAYS..
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15 Apr, 2013 by Anthony
John has been my family's lawyer over the last couple years and has represented me for various criminal charges as well as traffic violations. He has also been very helpful and understanding, as well as very informative. He is easy to talk to and takes your case very seriously and really fights for the best outcome. Also, he is very fair in regards to pricing, and always gives you a feel that your case is of the upmost importance. I recommend John to any and everyone as I'm 100% positive he will represent you as well as he represented me.
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25 Feb, 2015 by Barbara
I just want to tell Mr. Murachanian THANK YOU so much for your excellent handling of my recent house closing. You and your staff continued to be helpful and encouraging even in my frustration and impatience with what turned out to be a longer process than anticipated. You continued to keep me updated each time the closing was postponed and encouraged me that everything was moving forward. Knowing that you shared my Christian beliefs was a great comfort when it looked like things were a little shaky for a bit. I hope to see you again if I ever need legal services in the future. Thank you again.
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11 Feb, 2015 by The lennon's
My husband and I used Ed for three real estate transactions, each of which was handled with skill. Ed is a total pleasure to work with. All deals went very smoothly. Any questions or concerns we had he answered quickly. His office staff has also been great. His real estate secretary is knowledgeable about all aspects of the closing prospects and pleasant to deal with. Working with Ed and his office has been a positive experience for us and would recommend him without hesitation.
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15 Nov, 2009 by Rich
Ed did and outstanding job with our family will and our family living wills.
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16 Jan, 2019 by Alvin
I hired this attorney to handle a criminal matter regarding my daughter. She handled the matter very professionally and expeditiously. The matter resulted in the best outcome for my daughter. I'm still very pleased with her dedication to the matter!
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08 Mar, 2024 by Quoney dorsey
Mr. Turnbach has always been pleasant to me. He is a very good attorney & person…
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23 Dec, 2023 by Janice king
I Have Know Mr Turnbach For Over 2 Decades.He’s A Very Caring,Generous, Loyal Individual.Might I Add One Of The BEST Lawyers Out Of Ocean County..To Know Him Is To LOVE Him Every Friday Since The Pandemic Happened Him And His Team Has Given Back To The Family's In Need For That Alone He Deserves 100 Stars..THANK YOU MR TURNBACH For All You’ve Done For Us In Your/Our Community ❤️
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18 Dec, 2023 by Chris foster
I hired Mr Turnbach he seems to be very knowledgeable I'm extremely hopeful after all I've read about him. He's rated the number one lawyer in Toms River!!!!!!!
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13 Jul, 2024 by Kim sferra
I’ve waited a while , since my case was “closed “ to voice my concerns , since I’ve never had to experience a claim like this ever in my 70 years of life. I was NOT AT ALL satisfied with the outcome of my auto accident case handled by “Kim”, that occurred in January 2019. During my case “Kim” went thru several, not exaggerating , paralegals who lost my files , or she could not access the information they accumulated on my case , ie : no password access , when they left . I felt I did a lot of the work to duplicate the info she could not access or had literally had no access to during my case . Also I , myself , had to do a lot of the research and or follow up regarding why Medicare thought they were being double billed . I spent hours upon hours trying to explain to Medicare what pertained to the accident & what was regular medical expenses - unrelated . I alone , not my lawyer, was able to unravel all that and recover the funds in question . However, she still got her commission, and was I still out money, doing her job. I was on vacation with our grandchildren in Disney /Florida when her then “ paralegal “ called me & asked if I wanted to settle for a stated amount , rather than going to court & incurring more expenses , ie: calling witnesses , professionals etc etc & to testify about my permanent injuries & “possibly delaying the final settlement “ and “paying them more” and decreasing “my settlement money” to testify” about my permanent injuries “ , which I have as documented . I said I was on vacation & would call when we returned in a few days with my decision . Next thing that I knew “Kim” called & and stated that this was the final offer from the judge regarding my case & that “I should settle “ because this would be the final offer , in lieu of a court case where I I would have to to “pay” all the professionals , dr’s etc to testify about my “permanent “injuries & this would decrease my settlement amount . She ( Kim) told me I had to make a decision then & there. I felt very pressured , due to my situation being on vacation with my family in such a crowded place, & not being able to make a “qualified “ decision or discuss it with my husband in a private environment. So I agreed to her “suggestion “to settle . Just to note - this case was ongoing during the peak of COVID . Everything was Zoom & there were no court cases being scheduled or heard , unless they were emergencies . I feel I was deprived of a proper court decision &!was “persuaded “ to settle my case” because of this I have documented permanent injuries that won’t ever be resolved at my age , and I feel I’ve been cheated out of a proper settlement to acknowledge that. In short , I hesitated to voice my disappointment in the way my case was handled by my lawyer “ Kim” and the final outcome of it. I feel it was “ settled “ so everyone could get their “commission “, with no regard about my future medical conditions as a direct result of this accident / that wasn’t my fault. I considered writing a review of how disappointed I was about how my case was handled , and that I was just another commission for a “fender bender”. However I felt at the time , I was too angry about my case & its outcome& how it was “mishandled” to follow thru with that review to be fair .So since you asked, I’m answering . I hope my review of this poorly handled situation will prompt someone to reach out to me for further action . In all honesty , due to all this bad representation , I would never recommend this firm. Respectfully submitted Kim R Sferra
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05 Jul, 2024 by George heil
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02 Jul, 2024 by Kacie beeg
I came to Peter Bronzino with my domestic violence case. I was seeking a final restraining order. I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience. From the beginning he was kind, compassionate and sensitive to my case and the abuse I had endured. He listened to me and made me feel understood and comfortable. He was very up front in our first meeting about pricing and how billing would work, leaving me with no surprises- which is so important when you’re going through an already draining situation. I knew what to expect and didn’t have to wonder or be sticker shocked during one of the most trying times in my life. He always got back to me same day if I called or emailed with a question. He took the time to walk me through my case, explain potential outcomes, and ensure I felt comfortable and prepared for trial. He fought for me in court, and really held my best interest and my 2 1/2 year old child’s best interest. He showed up as a true professional and never wavered. He was consistent and tough and I absolutely could not have done this without the exceptional legal services I received. The outcome was a win. I received the protection from the court that I so desperately needed. As a domestic violence victim, I felt like he helped me get my life back and finally be free of the abuse I had continued to endure, and while doing so, treating me with respect, dignity, and value. He made me feel strong and confident enough in my story to show up and stand in my truth. I’m forever grateful for his service to my case and I 20/10 recommend. THANK YOU!!!!
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06 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I met with Jill Thielmann regarding a landlord tenant dispute. She encapsulated the problem quickly and laid out the two options available to me. I was able to come to a resolution quickly without spending a ton of money. You will not find a better, more knowledgeable attorney to handle your legal issues.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
$13000 in divorce fees and I got snowed. Was more worried about her billable hours the representing me. I gave this firm my life savings every penny I had and got nothing. She never advised me nor went back to the judge when my ex refused to relinquish his right to our home post divorce. Never kept our records and never filed the quadro that was paid for. In fact at our final hearing when my ex showed up with no attorney she bent over backwards to make sure he got a fair deal. Despite the fact that he wasted hours and hours of my and her time. Which I was billed for and paid. Don’t hire this woman to represent you unless your a man. Because it is all about the money and she will waste yours as well and you’ll end up being just another one of her victims.
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10 Sep, 2020 by Marianne
Jill Thielmann represented me in a very nasty divorce. Her advice was honest and cut through the bull. She presented a fair conclusion for both parties so that it would not go on and on wasting money. I also used her for my will and closing of a house. You will not find a better more thorough attorney - as well as being a pleasure ! She was excellent !!
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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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