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13 Oct, 2020 by Tony
Mr. Lai demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and expertise. I retained his services twice and I'm very satisfied with the positive outcome. I would definitely recommend Mr. Lai to my friends and family. All the best,
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18 Jul, 2019 by Simon
I am so happy that I have found the best lawyer for my traffic matter. Before this, I tried to give a call to a few lawyers including Mr. Lai. None of them responded me except Mr. Lai. He also listened patiently to my traffic matter (both on phone and in person) and explained everything in detail how I should defend my case and he handled the case like he is caring for one of his family members. Also, he always provided updated information during the process of my case. Finally, I won my case without any traffic points. I highly recommend this lawyer, Mr. Lai, to anyone who wants to win for traffic matters.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Leigh
Attorney Lai was very forthcoming and experienced in handling my criminal matter. He provided a proper investigation and diligently fought for my defense. He counseled me one on one and over the phone and was very efficient with his time. I am very grateful and thankful to Attorney Lai for successfully having my case dismissed and not settling for anything less. He is a master of criminal law and service. I highly recommend Attorney Johnny T. Lai.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Holly
I unfortunately needed a criminal defense attorney and was pleased with Ms. Frerich's knowledge, professionalism and compassion. She took the time to explain my case so that I understood all aspects of the case. She didn't "sugar coat" any aspect of my case which in hindsight, I appreciated. She kept me calm during my process and she was calm and professional. She allowed me to make payments which was very helpful.
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07 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Amy did a great job for me and I was very happy with her. I would definitely recommend her to other people. I was involved in a car accident and she negotiated a very good plea bargain for me.
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05 Feb, 2015 by Joseph
After receiving my 2nd DUI I got in touch with Amy. She was very straight forward and honest with me about my case, which meant I was always aware of every possibility. During my pending 2nd DUI I made the stupid choice to drive again and I ended up receiving my 3rd DUI. Amy showed me no judgment and openly accepted both cases at a increadable rate. Amy went to bat for me in front of both judges and I received only the minimum sentence of 10 days in work release for my second charge and almost the minimum for the 3rd. I could not be more happy with the outcome of my cases with the help from Amy. if there is any other services I need (which I won't). Amy will definitely be the first one I call hands down.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I was working with a top lawyer on AVVO but they were not performing at all, someone else recommended me to move over my DUI case with Mark Khalaf. He is an outstanding lawyer!!! I was charged with a DUI and a driver license suspension. He fought for me every step of the way and I've got it reduced to a wet instead. Also, he won my DMV hearing which was the most challenging part of my case. He is an expert on DUI's with a license suspension, I believe that he’s one out of a hundred lawyers that can help you win a DUI with a license suspension or a case that other lawyers might overlook and give you no hope at all. Also, Lorena his assistant is wonderful, she's helped me greatly to answer a ton of questions and they answered my calls every single time! I am so happy that I made the decision to move over my DUI case with Mark Khalaf and his team, it was a life saving decision for my driving record to move over my case! I have my driver's license back and I am moving forward with my life, until today I firmly believe that it was the best move to work with Mark Khalaf and I highly recommend him!
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31 Dec, 2014 by Eldemie
The reason I am writing this review is because I would not be here if it was not for Mark. Hands down thee best lawyer out there! If he cant help you no one will be able to! Please please I cannot stress enough how amazing of a person Mark is. Thank you!
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31 Dec, 2014 by Johnny
Mark is an amazing lawyer, deffinetely trustworthy in every way, shape and form. If you need someone you can really rely on something that is really worth fighting for...Mark is there for you, for me and for us all.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Sharee williams
Geoffrey's professionalism, accessibility, and expertise are unmatched. Always there when I needed him, he took the time to explain everything in detail, ensuring I felt confident every step of the way. Thank you to you and your team as you made a challenging process much easier!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Luis ivan
Geoffrey and staff were very professional and helpful during my case. He was Always available to answer my questions and check in before and after the case got settled. This was my first time using a lawyer and I’m so glad it was him. I highly recommend him and his team they will fight for you to get the best settlement.
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24 Jun, 2022 by Manuel borrero
Honestly his service was outstanding, took care of my case , was on top of everything, super good at communicating and helping to keep the process fast. Definitely recommended if you need in the need of a good lawyer.
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14 Dec, 2016 by Justin
I retained Michelle to help me with a misdemeanor citation I received. After an extensive search, I decided to hire Michelle due to her experience and reasonable rates. She explained her fee structure to me in complete detail so that there were no surprises. She kept me informed with weekly updates on my case, and always returned my phone calls promptly. She is empathetic, a great listener and extremely knowledgeable due to her extensive experience as a criminal defense attorney. Best of all, she secured a favorable result for me and I couldn’t be happier with how my case was resolved.
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27 Oct, 2015 by Beatriz
Michelle is a highly skilled attorney -- professional, and very knowledgeable. She provided me with thorough explanations about my case, and effectively assisted me in handling it. Her expertise and dedication ensured the best possible outcome for my situation. I am very grateful for her help.
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03 Feb, 2015 by Kim
Words can not begin to explain how grateful I am that we found Michelle during this crisis. Out of pure luck, we were referred to Michelle by Douglass Rappaport, another Criminal Defense attorney who was extremely responsive and helpful but had too many cases on his plate at the time. He spoke so highly of Michelle, and even took the time out to personally give her a call to ask her to take on our case. We (my husband and I) have never been in need of legal help. In this particular situation, my husband had an outstanding bench warrant for a supposed community service obligation that was never fulfilled along with an unpaid fine associated to a violation of a restraining order placed by his ex-wife. It was a long string of miscommunication as well as a patch of tough times for my husband who at was not receiving any mail or notifications from the courts regarding these obligations which led to the bench warrant. After months of struggling to get back on his feet and rebuilding his life with his current family, we were surprised, to say the least when this bombshell was dropped on us out of no where. We have barely been able to get back on our feet and he was just getting some steady work when he was faced with having to serve potential jail time to clear this misdemeanor that he never even knew about! On top of that, he was being summoned out of Alameda County's Pleasanton Court House, which we very quickly learned, was the furthest from pleasant as ever. After going through and calling what felt like over a dozen criminal defense lawyers for help, Doug and Michelle were the ONLY ones who were kind enough to help us. Pleasanton is notorious for being unpleasant and extremely conservative and unreasonable. Hence, no other attorneys were willing to take the case. Michelle, however brought us in and had a very non-intimidating conversation with us. She was professional, sensitive, thoughtful and very considerate in her approach. It was a very scary time for us, as we needed the help but did not have a lot of money that we could spare on legal fees. Hearing about shady attorneys that just try to rack up the fees without putting in the effort, we were terrified! Without even having to mention this to Michelle, she walked us through what she would help us with, and gave us a VERY reasonable rate for her services. She came through on every promise that she made keeping us both in the best spirits. She was honest with us every step of the way and worked swiftly to get us past this terrible time in our lives. The day of our court date, she arrived early and prepared to fight for us, and BOY oh BOY, did she, ever! The judge we were appointed that day was notorious for not giving second chances or even hearing most people out. As soon as she saw the bench warrant, she immediately tried to book my husband and move on to the next case without even hearing us out. I believe that most attorneys may have just given up and walked away, but Michelle fought! She demanded that the judge look over the case again and to read the letters of references that we gathered. Luckily she did, because as the judge looked through the case files that Michelle very professionally demanded she look through, the judge found that the charge fell under some revised law that put this case out of her jurisdiction, which meant that the case had to be dismissed! My husband went from being handcuffed and placed in a holding cell, to walking out of the court room free and clear of the accusations and obligations. Michelle told us that she was gonna do whatever it took to help us, and she did exactly that. She was a pro in the courtroom and thanks to her, our family is happy and thriving again without having to skip a beat. If you are looking for an honest, hard working and experienced attorney, look no further. You will be in great hands with Michelle Dylan!
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04 Nov, 2018 by Lisa
We hired Brian to handle a difficult and lengthy criminal case involving my son. Brian's knowledge and expertise made it possible to meet specific objectives and goals and with his strategic planning, resulted in a favorable outcome of the case for my son.
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14 Nov, 2017 by Jennifer
There are no words that can express the kind of dedication that Brian has put into my case. I completely trust him with my life and my circumstances he is a great man a great lawyer and is working very hard for me I am so thankful that he has been placed into my life.
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30 Dec, 2013 by Chris
Brian worked on my wife's case which filled me with fear of losing my wife and best friend of 35 years (even knowing she was innocent). Brian is an attorney of true TRUST= t-TRUSTWORTHY, r-RESPONSIVE, u-UNDERSTANDING, s-SINCERITY, t-TOUGHNESS. His knowledge of law and court presentation was undeniably strong and balanced. This was a very difficult case which was overwhelming for my wife and I but Brian always left us feeling secure in the defense. After the dismissals of her case I felt overwhelmingly grateful. We both respect Brian very highly. Thanks Brian for the best defense anyone could have given.
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27 Jun, 2022 by Richard
When I was alone and desperately seeking legal help, She came from out of the darkness. She said I can help you and I will be glad to help You. The opposing attorney stated that he was going to win repeatedly, she never wavered. She never raised her voice, she know her stuff and we won hands down. An excellent job by an excellent counselor.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Sidney
Mrs. Kapoor guided my petition to terminate my federal supervised release from consultation to multiple meetings, respectfully cultivating and gathering information from my family, friends, and social supports. Her work was substantial in creating the possibility of a good outcome.
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30 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Kapoor she is the best in her field she is honest, she is wise, she is very detailed and persices when it comes to a case, her experiences is the phenomenal extraordinary ability to win is the team that she put you on you in the hot seat for a reason, she has grace and style and you will be proven o be a winner in the battle that you are faced with.
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24 Sep, 2024 by K
I'll start off by saying, I've talked to at least 20 different lawyers. I had a very extensive case for my civil harassment restraining order. I had been sexually assaulted, threatened, coerced, manipulated, and psychologically tortured by my former boss. Kian spent an extensive amount of time to review my case. He was patient, informative, and genuine. I would trust Kian to fight for me. Kian's transparency was refreshing in this line of work. On top of his professional excellence, he is also fair with his fee. It's very apparent that he is not greedy with his time, resources, and fees. I would 100% recommend Kian to any of my friends and family. Kian gives me faith in humanity that there are good and honest lawyers.
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15 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Kian helped us obtain a restraining order. He used his acute knowledge of the law to guide us through the process and navigate challenges along the way. He is patient, understanding, and very resourceful. I highly recommend him.
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17 May, 2017 by Sameer
I met Kian through a chance meeting after receiving an infraction ticket; being new to the country, I wasn't versed in local laws. Kian was very kind and helping me understand my rights, the jargon and what my options are. He walked me through every step of the way, despite how minute my issue was. I highly recommend him, and thank him for his time.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Alex ferbrache
Victor helped my mom win a personal injury settlement against a major retail chain. I am incredibly grateful for his outstanding legal support and guidance throughout the process. His diligence and attention to detail in gathering information about the incident both from my mom and the relevant medical professionals and organizations was instrumental in the favorable settlement he achieved on her behalf. We'd highly recommend working with Victor.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Beverly li
Victor was a tremendous help. After my car accident, I initially felt overwhelmed and reluctant to deal with anything related to the incident, anticipating it to be a hassle. However, once I mustered up the confidence to reach out to Victor and put in some effort, it became evident that he would be able to assist me—and he truly did. Although the process was somewhat lengthy, Victor consistently excelled in providing timely updates throughout the case. I definitely would recommend Victor to anyone who needs him.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Alvin lee
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Victor and his team. They truly went above and beyond to help me with a case that was far from easy to prove. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable. From the initial consultation, Victor and his team took the time to thoroughly understand the complexities of my situation. They provided me with clear guidance on the potential outcomes and a realistic assessment of my situation, which helped me make informed decisions throughout the process. What impressed me the most was their tireless advocacy on my behalf. Victor and his team left no stone unturned, conducted meticulous research, and navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse. They handled everything with determination and professionalism, even when all seem hopeless. I'm thrilled to say that their hard work paid off, and I received compensation that I never thought possible. This outcome was a testament to Victor and his team's expertise and their ability to handle challenging cases. Moreover, the communication throughout the entire process was exceptional. They kept me informed at every step, promptly answered my questions, and eased my anxieties. I felt supported and empowered throughout the journey. If you're in need of legal representation and are facing a complex or challenging situation, I wholeheartedly recommend Victor. They are a dedicated team of legal experts who will fight with passion, skill, and unwavering commitment.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Alex ferbrache
Victor helped my mom win a personal injury settlement against a major retail chain. I am incredibly grateful for his outstanding legal support and guidance throughout the process. His diligence and attention to detail in gathering information about the incident both from my mom and the relevant medical professionals and organizations was instrumental in the favorable settlement he achieved on her behalf. We'd highly recommend working with Victor.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Beverly li
Victor was a tremendous help. After my car accident, I initially felt overwhelmed and reluctant to deal with anything related to the incident, anticipating it to be a hassle. However, once I mustered up the confidence to reach out to Victor and put in some effort, it became evident that he would be able to assist me—and he truly did. Although the process was somewhat lengthy, Victor consistently excelled in providing timely updates throughout the case. I definitely would recommend Victor to anyone who needs him.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Alvin lee
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Victor and his team. They truly went above and beyond to help me with a case that was far from easy to prove. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable. From the initial consultation, Victor and his team took the time to thoroughly understand the complexities of my situation. They provided me with clear guidance on the potential outcomes and a realistic assessment of my situation, which helped me make informed decisions throughout the process. What impressed me the most was their tireless advocacy on my behalf. Victor and his team left no stone unturned, conducted meticulous research, and navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse. They handled everything with determination and professionalism, even when all seem hopeless. I'm thrilled to say that their hard work paid off, and I received compensation that I never thought possible. This outcome was a testament to Victor and his team's expertise and their ability to handle challenging cases. Moreover, the communication throughout the entire process was exceptional. They kept me informed at every step, promptly answered my questions, and eased my anxieties. I felt supported and empowered throughout the journey. If you're in need of legal representation and are facing a complex or challenging situation, I wholeheartedly recommend Victor. They are a dedicated team of legal experts who will fight with passion, skill, and unwavering commitment.
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27 Oct, 2021 by Jeni hough
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22 Jul, 2021 by Colleen heinrich
Always professional, supportive and knowledgable. Thank you for your time in helping to sort out all the chaos making it smooth and painless...
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08 Jun, 2021 by Aris pologeorgis
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11 Feb, 2024 by Alex ferbrache
Victor helped my mom win a personal injury settlement against a major retail chain. I am incredibly grateful for his outstanding legal support and guidance throughout the process. His diligence and attention to detail in gathering information about the incident both from my mom and the relevant medical professionals and organizations was instrumental in the favorable settlement he achieved on her behalf. We'd highly recommend working with Victor.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Beverly li
Victor was a tremendous help. After my car accident, I initially felt overwhelmed and reluctant to deal with anything related to the incident, anticipating it to be a hassle. However, once I mustered up the confidence to reach out to Victor and put in some effort, it became evident that he would be able to assist me—and he truly did. Although the process was somewhat lengthy, Victor consistently excelled in providing timely updates throughout the case. I definitely would recommend Victor to anyone who needs him.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Alvin lee
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Victor and his team. They truly went above and beyond to help me with a case that was far from easy to prove. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable. From the initial consultation, Victor and his team took the time to thoroughly understand the complexities of my situation. They provided me with clear guidance on the potential outcomes and a realistic assessment of my situation, which helped me make informed decisions throughout the process. What impressed me the most was their tireless advocacy on my behalf. Victor and his team left no stone unturned, conducted meticulous research, and navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse. They handled everything with determination and professionalism, even when all seem hopeless. I'm thrilled to say that their hard work paid off, and I received compensation that I never thought possible. This outcome was a testament to Victor and his team's expertise and their ability to handle challenging cases. Moreover, the communication throughout the entire process was exceptional. They kept me informed at every step, promptly answered my questions, and eased my anxieties. I felt supported and empowered throughout the journey. If you're in need of legal representation and are facing a complex or challenging situation, I wholeheartedly recommend Victor. They are a dedicated team of legal experts who will fight with passion, skill, and unwavering commitment.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Alex ferbrache
Victor helped my mom win a personal injury settlement against a major retail chain. I am incredibly grateful for his outstanding legal support and guidance throughout the process. His diligence and attention to detail in gathering information about the incident both from my mom and the relevant medical professionals and organizations was instrumental in the favorable settlement he achieved on her behalf. We'd highly recommend working with Victor.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Beverly li
Victor was a tremendous help. After my car accident, I initially felt overwhelmed and reluctant to deal with anything related to the incident, anticipating it to be a hassle. However, once I mustered up the confidence to reach out to Victor and put in some effort, it became evident that he would be able to assist me—and he truly did. Although the process was somewhat lengthy, Victor consistently excelled in providing timely updates throughout the case. I definitely would recommend Victor to anyone who needs him.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Alvin lee
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Victor and his team. They truly went above and beyond to help me with a case that was far from easy to prove. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable. From the initial consultation, Victor and his team took the time to thoroughly understand the complexities of my situation. They provided me with clear guidance on the potential outcomes and a realistic assessment of my situation, which helped me make informed decisions throughout the process. What impressed me the most was their tireless advocacy on my behalf. Victor and his team left no stone unturned, conducted meticulous research, and navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse. They handled everything with determination and professionalism, even when all seem hopeless. I'm thrilled to say that their hard work paid off, and I received compensation that I never thought possible. This outcome was a testament to Victor and his team's expertise and their ability to handle challenging cases. Moreover, the communication throughout the entire process was exceptional. They kept me informed at every step, promptly answered my questions, and eased my anxieties. I felt supported and empowered throughout the journey. If you're in need of legal representation and are facing a complex or challenging situation, I wholeheartedly recommend Victor. They are a dedicated team of legal experts who will fight with passion, skill, and unwavering commitment.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Alex ferbrache
Victor helped my mom win a personal injury settlement against a major retail chain. I am incredibly grateful for his outstanding legal support and guidance throughout the process. His diligence and attention to detail in gathering information about the incident both from my mom and the relevant medical professionals and organizations was instrumental in the favorable settlement he achieved on her behalf. We'd highly recommend working with Victor.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Beverly li
Victor was a tremendous help. After my car accident, I initially felt overwhelmed and reluctant to deal with anything related to the incident, anticipating it to be a hassle. However, once I mustered up the confidence to reach out to Victor and put in some effort, it became evident that he would be able to assist me—and he truly did. Although the process was somewhat lengthy, Victor consistently excelled in providing timely updates throughout the case. I definitely would recommend Victor to anyone who needs him.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Alvin lee
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Victor and his team. They truly went above and beyond to help me with a case that was far from easy to prove. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable. From the initial consultation, Victor and his team took the time to thoroughly understand the complexities of my situation. They provided me with clear guidance on the potential outcomes and a realistic assessment of my situation, which helped me make informed decisions throughout the process. What impressed me the most was their tireless advocacy on my behalf. Victor and his team left no stone unturned, conducted meticulous research, and navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse. They handled everything with determination and professionalism, even when all seem hopeless. I'm thrilled to say that their hard work paid off, and I received compensation that I never thought possible. This outcome was a testament to Victor and his team's expertise and their ability to handle challenging cases. Moreover, the communication throughout the entire process was exceptional. They kept me informed at every step, promptly answered my questions, and eased my anxieties. I felt supported and empowered throughout the journey. If you're in need of legal representation and are facing a complex or challenging situation, I wholeheartedly recommend Victor. They are a dedicated team of legal experts who will fight with passion, skill, and unwavering commitment.
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04 Feb, 2013 by Luis
i hiigher recomended Evangelina Malhotra, she is outstanding lawyer very knowledgeable, responsable and profesional . she handled my case very profesional and always did the best for me.
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24 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Malhotra has brilliantly advocated for my family and me in a shocking and difficult divorce. She has been incredibly conscientious and responsive and at the same time creative and insightful , helping me deal with the changing situation, always with the future outcome in mind. My assets are modest and the marriage was very long and yet Ms. Malhotra has brought her broad knowledge to bear on all the issues from financial to domestic violence , attending to every detail that might be significant to a good outcome. I cannot more highly recommend her work.
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05 Dec, 2012 by Raquel villanueva
I just was to Thank you with all my heart I saw the good heart in you from the very start. After hiring lawyer after lawer for my case that seemed to go no where I had almost lost hope. Then I found you Eva Juarez Malhorta you completely changed my life for ever. You handled my case with all the perfect elements. Your cutting edge expertise on legal matters along with the integrity and honesty made the outcome of my case a success! Thank you !! To all my friends and family Eva Juarez Malhotra is our Family Attorney
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21 Dec, 2022 by Tee
I recently worked with Bob on a legal matter and was thoroughly impressed with his professionalism and dedication to his clients. From the start, Bob made it clear that he was committed to fighting for the best possible outcome in the courtroom. He was attentive to my needs and always made sure to keep me informed about the progress of my case. One of the things I appreciated most about Bob was his ability to clearly explain complex legal concepts in a way that was easy for me to understand. He was patient and always willing to answer my questions, no matter how trivial they may have seemed. In addition to his expertise in the legal field, Bob also showed a genuine care for his clients. He truly looked out for my best interests and went above and beyond to ensure that I was comfortable and confident throughout the legal process. I highly recommend Bob to anyone in need of legal representation. He is an excellent lawyer and an even better person. Overall, it was a pleasure working with him and I am grateful for all of his hard work and dedication.
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23 Mar, 2021 by Vahag
Bob is absolutely one of the best Attorney's you will ever come across, he's an amazing attorney that actually cares about his clients, he's literally one of the best out there. We are so grateful to him for what he was able to do for us. He's the type of person that restores your faith in a profession that you had lost faith in, a real example of what an attorney should be. Me and my wife had given our case to what you would refer to as a sleazebag attorney, the type of attorney that gives a bad name to all other attorneys, he literally stole our money, made us feel like s**t, and left us with no answers, so I had to find another attorney. Distraught and discouraged we found Bob on yelp, apprehensive at first to not have to go through anything like that again and hoping we find someone good, we called Bob. From the first time I talked with Bob, he made us feel at ease and took the time to answer any and all questions we had, we didn't feel rushed at all and he encouraged us to reach out to him with any other questions or concerns we had. I've dealt with other attorneys in my life before for many different reasons, so I know how attorneys behave in general, they keep you in the dark, you don't know what's going on, they don't call you back, some steal your money or charge more later than they originally quote, and you feel like your case doesn't matter in their whole scheme of things, I've only met like one other attorney who was our bankruptcy attorney that was really good. Bob gave great advice, fair prices, he was patient and took the time to answer and explain everything to us, and he did what he said he was going to do, also always called us at important times to keep us updated. We always knew what was going on and what the next step was going to be, and he handled everything so well that we felt that we were in really good hands. At one of these times he called us and gave us great news that our case was finally gonna be dismissed, me and my wife were going through so much stress at the time and after we got that call my wife started crying and we hugged because we knew that one challenge that we were so unfairly going through was getting closer to come to an end, and Bob made all that possible. Life is about love and helping others who are in need and Bob was a Godsend that helped us through this difficult time. Thank you again Bob we will never forget what you did for us at a time when we were going through so much stress and grief. Thank you so very much!
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08 Jul, 2020 by Bri
I met Mr. Farahan through yelp scrolling through and meeting with several lawyers before choosing my representation. I was in a sticky situation and I’m glad it’s all solved and we’re at the end. I cannot emphasize enough how his professionalism and knowlege of the system, along with his passion helped at a very crucial time. Worth every penny. You can trust him to get the job done! His professionalism & knowledge in the court room was excellent. I was impressed by how well known & respected he was in the court system. Very compassionate & aware he made a horrible experience easier as I was walked through the process in the beginning & throughout. I would highly recommend Mr Farahan to family & friends if needing an attorney !! Thank you again!!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Kevin
At 60 years old I found myself in the grips of the legal system for a felony. I was nowhere near prepared for the impending situation I was facing and needed immediate legal help. I was referred to Michelle Silva and contacted her right away. Michelle is very accomodating, fair and easy to communicate with. She helped guide me through my crisis and answered all of my questions. She was available and easy to reach at all times. At the end of the day, she went over and above my expectations, but more importantly, she was key in ensuring that my best interests were met, which ultimately resulted in all charges being dropped. Thank God I found the right attorney to help guide me through what was the most uncomfortable situation I have even experienced in my life. Thank you Michelle !!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Kristi
When the police showed up to our house to question our son, panic took over. Thankfully we were referred to Michelle Silva. Michelle walked with us from the first phone call, till the case was dismissed a year later. We knew that Michelle was only a text or phone call away and was right beside us when the charges were filed. She was gentle and caring with our son, answering his questions, and checking in with him every step of the way. We never expected to need the services of Michelle, but we are so glad she was there when we did.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Aw travis harris
Attorney Michelle Silva is undoubtedly the best legal professional to seek assistance from. Even if you are unsure of the specific attorney you need, she is a great resource to get in touch with. She will do everything in her power to help you or recommend someone of exceptional ability to meet your legal needs. I cannot express my gratitude enough to Attorney Silva for her invaluable help in my time of dire need. Despite the numerous obstacles and my last-minute request, she went above and beyond to ensure that I was protected and cleared of injustice. I strongly advise you to contact Attorney Silva without any hesitation. She will be your guiding light through both good and bad times. Attorney Silva, thank you once again for what you did for me. I am forever grateful. AWTH
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21 May, 2023 by Anonymous
#Team S. Mohsini ………. Best lawyer ever. I was looking at 60 plus year’s to life without parole. Sheila , never doubted my release date even tho I did. She is a confident, and loyal lawyer. She fights and then fights harder. She knows the law and knows strategy. I owe her everything. She handled this life case like a piece of cake. S.Mohsini is the way!!!!!!
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11 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
My brother was about to get life for murder if it wasn't for Sheila. She was not the first attorney,, but save the best for last right? Well, my brother is free now because of her. She also treated him like he was a human being. I have never seen anyone fight so hard and just like not give up even when my brother was getting tired and wanted it over with. Thank God for her and her passion.
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11 Jan, 2021 by Vilma
A friend of my husbands gave me sheilas number in hopes to get legal advice.I almost didn’t call the number because I thought it would be a waste of time, considering all of the bad attorneys I had already spoke with. But I was definitely in for a surprise, Not only did I get the legal advice I needed, I discovered that Sheila is an awesome attorney and is passionate about her job. She’s not like any other attorney I have ever spoke with (which wouldn’t even talk to me without paying for a consultation) she actually truly cared about my husbands case and took the time out of her busy day to listen to his story. She thoroughly reviewed the paperwork on his case and now , after only a month of knowing Sheila, my husband is a free man. I can’t repay her loyalty because the qualities that Sheila possesses are worth more than any money! I would definitely recommend Sheila she’s as sharp as a razor blade and will NOT let you down! My respects.
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30 Jan, 2023 by Arlee
My experience with Mr. Khan and his firm was very recent. Before speaking with him, I reached out to numerous attorneys and my previous attorney was of no help. I'd lost all hope and thought that my life was going to go in a horrible direction. And then I reached out to Foglight Law. Mr. Khan dealt with me in a straightforward, non-pretentious and down to earth way. Also, he handled my case with flying stars and thanks to his intervention and advocacy, I can say that I am in a far far far better economic position. He is brilliant, honest, ethical and carries a strong sense of justice. When it comes to attorneys, he has surpassed all my expectations. If you need an attorney, I highly recommend T. Khan at Foglight Law. He is the absolute BEST! Thank you so very much, Mr. Khan.
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20 Jun, 2021 by Sindee riboli
No one smarter then Bruce McBirney on real estate. Very thorough.. Highly intelligent group of attorneys
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01 Oct, 2018 by Jeremy
Thanks Foglight! T. Khan helped me with a traffic matter. I was driving and was arrested for a warrant which is a misdemeanor and he got it reduced to an infraction! Even though the DA was being really strict with me trying to give the max fine and penalty.. I'm not sure how you did it but thanks for being there for me!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Wave street studios
Thank you Phillip for coming to my rescue and getting the case against me dismissed. I've never been accused of a crime and didn't know what to do to fight the charge. Your early research of the facts and expert navigation through the process were the keys to our success. Thanks again, Rhett
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael k. scheid
Crawford Law firm is one of the top juvenile criminal attorneys in Salinas.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rob garcia
I ran into an unusual case that I needed someone in the field to fight for me. And that's exactly what she did. I'm grateful for her because she believed in me and went beyond her means to help me. It was a victory case and my innocence is restored again. And that's priceless. RG
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01 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Provided expert counsel and was proactive in dealing with the government before trial which led to favorable results.
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14 Sep, 2017 by Eric
I retained Ms. Silberman to represent me on a traffic matter. The first conversation with her assured me that I was likely in good hands. All court filings were very prompt, extenuating issue on evidence gathering were duly explored, adjustments for hearing dates were efficiently addressed, and the final court finds were in my favor. Ms. Silberman kept me well apprised of the status of my case during the course of her involvement and I felt well prepared and knowledgeable of all potential senarios.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I needed a lawyer to represent me in a case of a frivolous CPO brought against me. I had already engaged the representation of one of the "hot shot" lawyers on a well known firm who after charging me double the normal rate, was pressuring me to accept the CPO. I refused and sought another lawyer. Lora Silberman was recommended and everything changed. She was able to negotiate an out of court settlement and got the case vacated. This was very important from a professional point of view for me. I was extremely impressed by her focused representation of me and protecting my interests. I recommend her unreservedly. Thank you!
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19 Nov, 2013 by Joey
Hopefully, you will never have the need for a criminal attorney however, if you do, I highly recommend Severa Keith. I recently found myself in a pickle and needed some legal counsel and sound advice. Right from the beginning I knew I was in good hands and dealing with a professional that not only had perseverance but also displayed compassion for my situation. I was scared. The criminal court room and judge can be a very intimidating process. However, Severa navigated and orchestrated the legal system with precision and delivered on every promise. I am extremely grateful that I had Severa representing me.
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09 Nov, 2012 by Sherry
I found Ms. Keith to be extremely honest and informative, she gave me advice about my 19y/o grandson's case. Gave me useful insight and helped me make a decisions on how to proceed. She didn't try to get my money from me with empty promises as other lawyers did. She basically told me to stick with the public defender(unheard of, right) then to get him out of jail and get him in N.A. meetings, a job, and back to school. All of which will help show good intentions to the court. I was so impressed with her candor, conduct, and ethics. I just can't say enough positive comments on her behalf. If anyone needs a great lawyer who will tell you the absolute truth, who's not money hungry or greedy, and genuinely cares about her clients she's your lady.
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05 Jan, 2011 by Eric
Severa Keith is an exceptional criminal defense lawyer. I was in dire need of legal advise due to the fact that I’m extremely ignorant when it pertains to the legal system. Severa was very helpful, knowledgeable and carrying. She made me feel at easy with my situation with her knowledge of the legal system and her experience with the local attorneys and judges in San Francisco. It was a pleasure working with Severa Keith.
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11 Mar, 2021 by Georgea
I have known Karl Krooth for almost 10 years now. Mr Krooth was recommended to me by my former attorney in 2012. My U-visa petition was stalled and so we hired Mr. Krooth and his team. Within months, we got the petition approved. When was time for my I-485 I had no doubts who I wanted to represent me! And again, my petition was approved. He was so through, knowledge, confident and caring. In March 2021 he did it again! With his help and his team at Immigrant Crime and Justice I am so proud to have become a US citizen. Hiring Mr Karl Krooth and his team (Julian Sanchez Mora) has been one of my best decisions and investment. The peace of mind he gave me is worth every penny.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Eddy
My application for naturalization was denied due to three criminal cases dating back to 1996 and 2002. After consulting with six different attorneys, one of them recommended Karl Krooth. After doing my own research on Mr. Krooth, I scheduled a consultation with him. Mr. Krooth's expertise and knowledge of both criminal and immigration law were immediately evident from our first conversation. I hired Mr. Krooth and the results speak for themselves. The 1996 case was re-sentenced to eliminate the immigration consequences, one of the cases from 2002 was reduced to a misdemeanor and the other which had been an aggravated felony was dismissed. As of June 9th 2017 I am no longer a felon and I'm eligible to reapply for my citizenship. I highly recommend Mr. Krooth for any criminal or immigration related cases.
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07 Feb, 2015 by Erika
My husband had several criminal cases which needed to be resolved. Karl was determined and dedicated to resolve his cases. Karl gave us reassurance and worked diligently on our cases. With post conviction relief, my husband's immigration proceedings will soon come to an ended. It's all thanks to Karl. Our families are forever grateful.
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09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Trent saved me from going to prison i am truly blessed and happy with the end results my charges were serious felony charges thank you so much god bless you !!! he will really push for u to get the best deal . I highly reccomend him.
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14 Jan, 2019 by Haviva
Trenton recently represented a family member. He is a great attorney. He is very responsive and truly cares about getting the best results for his clients. He provided excellent advice and counseling. He definitely knows his way around a courtroom, and is very dedicated to his work. He also has expertise in issues related to mental health. I highly recommend him.
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14 Dec, 2018 by Robbie
My family and I were suddenly thrown into a situation that was truly new to us and one we’ve never experienced before. I received a call from Trent almost immediately after filling out their questionnaire online. We met the following day and he set very realistic expectations for us. With this being a forgein subject matter to us, Trent could have easily sold us on a pretty picture. But he didnt, he was upfront and gave us information based on his experiences. Thank you Trent for walking us through a difficult period, we will always be grateful.
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30 May, 2020 by S.
I was facing a harassment case. The complainant and her best friends, acting as her witnesses, had made up a scary story to destroy my life and reputation. When I first read the allegation, it was so well drafted by the complainant and her fake witnesses that I, myself, believed I might have done something wrong. I was confused and had a lot of panic attacks. The next day, I visited my family doctor and I was referred to a psychiatrist. Being experienced by similar cases, the psychiatrist advised me to get a lawyer as soon as possible. I searched the internet and was lucky enough to find Mr. Dean Johnson. He was prompt in answering my call, asking me a few to-the-point questions and giving me an appointment to meet with him in his office. He asked me to prepare documents for him regarding what had actually happened and all correspondences from the investigators and the complainant. When I met Dean in his office, I realized that Dean has already read all information carefully and knew my case as I knew it. Every time that Dean and I met with the investigators upon their requests, Dean showed them that he knows more about the case and regulations than they know and that they are wrong on many facts. As complainant and investigators tried to bring more made-up data to my case, Dean proved them being wrong again. I didn't have to remind Dean of any meeting schedule or review with him the case. He knew all the case details better than I knew them and he was always present at meetings even before I enter the meetings. Dean was a great lawyer and a caring friend by my side. The case was dropped against me after one year of exhaustive investigation. Hail to Dean for being there for me and making sure the justice is properly served.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I went to Dean's office for a consultation. He is the best lawyer period. Not only did he provide me free consultation, he was very patient in listening and provided the right feedback. If you are looking for a lawyer who can totally understand and support you through your ordeal, it will be John. Better call Dean :)
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03 Jan, 2019 by Jon
Dean represented me in a civil harassment case with my lunatic neighbor.  When I was served with a temporary restraining order, I knew I needed legal representation.  I heard about Dean through a friend.  I immediately called him and had an appointment within days.  I knew from our first meeting, I wanted to hire him.  He’s sharp!  A great listener, professional, and organized.   On our court date, Dean proved to be everything we needed to win!  Our opponent was an aggressive bully and in court his behavior was no different.  Dean had no problem putting him in his place.  Our hearing was exciting and shocking.  After our opponent saw Dean's hearing brief, the bully stormed out of the court room and fled the building. It was a classic hilarious moment!  Our troubles were over.  The temporary restraining order against me was dismissed.  In addition, the judge ruled in our favor by ordering a 3 year restraining order against our neighbor.  The bonus to it all…our neighbor was ordered to pay a portion of our legal fees.  We couldn’t have been happier with the outcome!  Dean totally exceeded our expectations.  Thanks to him, we had a few great chuckles and can sleep a little better a night.  
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19 May, 2018 by Victoria
I came to US in January 2014 to marry my ex-husband, we got married in April 2014, lived less than a year and broke up in March 2015. Our marriage wasn’t good but when my ex-husband left me it was a surprise. While I was at work he took all the expensive stuff out of our condo, transferred all the money from our joint account to his personal account (at that moment I didn’t have my own account, only joint), also when we were buying our property, he and his agent asked me to sign some paper, I did it but actually it was Quitclaim Deed, I found out it only when we were divorcing. I had been in America only for one year and fully trusted my ex-husband but he did everything to leave me with nothing and throw me out on a street like a toy. On the same day when he left I received a letter from his attorney and from that day they were sending to me threatening letters every day. I had no money (I had $25 and had to wait 2 weeks until next paycheck), no family, no friends, no knowledge how to act in this situation. In additional to all this he tried to do everything to leave me without any US documents. At that moment I had my conditional green card so he was thinking up some stories (he called it “evidence”) and contacted USCIS and American Embassy in my native country to have me departed from US. He even called the police and said that I broke into his home when he wasn’t there, he asked the police to put me in jail, he really tried to break my life. When I contacted Oksana I was just lost, scared and exhausted of threats. Oksana took care of everything – divorce, immigration problems and related to it matters. Everything what we discussed were solved like we planned. We had to divorce before my conditional green card expires, so she did everything very quickly but it didn’t impact the quality of her work, she could prove that quitclaim deed is not legit and I wasn’t aware of what I was signing so she could prove that the condo was a community property and a half of the amount from the sale of the condo belongs to me. Recently I received my permanent green card without any RFE or interview and again it’s all thanks to Oksana! Oksana is a highly professional attorney and a wonderful person. The work she has done is amazing! She perfectly knows her job, she is always prepared and keeps everything under control. All cases are very stressful but Oksana was the only person who could keep me calm and positive. Every time when I talked or met Oksana I was convinced again and again that I am in very good hands. Oksana, thank you very very much for your great, perfect, amazing work as an attorney and your sincere, very necessary support at such moments as a person!!
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07 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Oksana for my temporary and now permanent green card process. We experienced ease and flow in our entire process. Oksana was eager to assist us with whatever questions I had (and I can have many at times ;) in a prompt manner. In addition she kept us updated and informed at any time. So highly grateful for Oksana's services and making this feel like a "breeze". Highly recommended!
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24 Oct, 2017 by Oliver greenwood
These people are great and do a ton for the local community.
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12 Jul, 2021 by Eugene
Dan represented me in a DUI case and I was very pleased with the outcome. I felt Dan was always in control and Very Professional. I would highly recommend him.
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14 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Daniel Nardoni was with us every step of the way when we called him. On a consultation basis, Mr. Nardoni guided us through a difficult time over the course of a few days. He was communicative and kind and patient with our questions.
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02 Sep, 2017 by Miguel
I hired Mr. Nardoni on a drug charge where I was caught red-handed and was facing quite a few years. But he got my case dismissed after questioning the tactics that the arresting officer did.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
We hired Martin and team to help us with our situation. They took the time to understand our issue with sufficient patience and provided a deep insight into causes. He and his team were able to provide a fairly illustrative prognosis over the next steps on the case. With his legal experience he was able to drive prompt resolutions and also pivot on matters as necessary to keep our (client) interest at the center of potential outcomes. He collaborated with other legal disciplines and is always amenable to different approaches. We were completely caught offgaurd with out situation but owing to competent and professional intervention by Martin et al, we eventually were able to resolve to our benefit. In summary, we are very happy and relieved with the outcome would strongly recommend their involvements for best possible outcomes.
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22 Oct, 2019 by Jonatan
I came to Mr Cavarez really worried about my case because it would affect my immigration process. We sat down for a long consult in which he explained everything in detail. I felt really confident with his knowlege and experience as an attorny and he gave me a sense of tranqulity in regards of ny situation. I decided to hire him to represent me in court and it was the BEST decision i could have taken. Mr Cavarez took care of me along the case, he MADE sure I would get the best outcome posible on the case and helped me not go to jail at all. I am really satisfy with his ingegrity, kindness, experience, the willing to help the latino community and last but not least, he is a great person. He didnt pay attention to my mistakes but instead showed affection in the most proffesional way possible. So if you are in the need of a great proffesional and honest attorney. Mr Cavarez is who you should go with.
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01 Aug, 2019 by Gamal
He was so helpful. The process was made easy for me and made me less stressful and depressed. Thanks you so much
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08 Apr, 2024 by George lee
Ashley was fantastic. I was referred to him by a friend when I need help and felt well represented during the process. Ashley was very patient. He answered all my questions and explain things to me multiple times. At the same times he doesn't bog you down with too much information or jargon which would have overwhelmed me. He was also very personal and I got to know him a bit. We connected on several points, particularly being a father to our kids. In the end he knew exactly how things would play out and we got the best possible outcome. I fully recommend Ashley and for you to trust him. Thank you, Ashley!
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25 Mar, 2021 by Matthew
Ashley, is not just another case another file type lawyer. Ashley cares about YOU as a person. He gets to know you and about you so he can truly fight for you. He responds promptly to your questions or concerns and that is extremely reassuring. He is a no nonsense pitbull in the courtroom and makes sure to get his point across. Ultimately, from the moment you meet him to the time he wins your case Ashley gives you everything he has. I strongly recommend him!!!
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17 Mar, 2021 by Sidney
Ashley Daniel, I am so thankful for Ash and his incredible skills as a lawyer. My situation was so complicated and seemed like it would never end. I was on probation in Orange County and I was granted an interstate compact to the state I lived in. While on probation I was charged with crimes in another state and eventually turned myself into that state. The state I lived in put a warrant out for my arrest and would eventually withdraw the warrant once my probation was transferred back to Orange County and a warrant for my arrest for probation violation. After working out my current situation it was time to fix my OC probation problem which was a much bigger problem than I had thought. I had a really bad lawyer represent me in my OC case and I did not know that if I violated my probation, I would have to do a mandatory 5 year 4 months. To say my situation was bad was an understatement because it was worse than bad, I thought I was going to spend the next 10 years incarcerated. I contacted several lawyers in Orange County to help me with my problem and they all said they could not help me. I left a message for Ash and really wasn’t expecting a call back at all but, he called and changed my world. He was kind and not like any lawyer I had ever met before and I will just say this much I currently have 4 lawyers in 4 states. I have 2 paid attorneys and 2 public defenders and to be honest Ash is the best and he even impressed my high-power lawyer and has left an impression on him which I notice today. After sharing my situation with him he said let me do some research over the weekend and I will get back with you. He also said he didn’t want to charge me anything until he knew if he could help me and I had never heard that from a lawyer before ever. Ash called me the next week and with confidence told me his plan of attack and I was convinced he was going to be able to help me through this and he did. In one week’s, time Ash had spoken with one of my lawyers, probation officer and district attorney. He also was able to set up a court appearance without me having to attend and was able to have my warrant removed, my probation closed, and my 5 years 4 months sentence run concurrent with the time in the other state. Ash genuinely cares about his clients and practicing law the right way. I never felt like he was in it for the money or that he was working for the DA. He did his homework, had a plan, executed his plan and was able to get me everything he said in his plan. I forgot to mention when he told me his price, I thought he was going to take my money and do bare minimum. I am working on giving him more money because I feel like I got over on him and it isn’t sitting well with me…lol If you are in need of a lawyer please look no further than Ashley Daniel, because he is a diamond in the messed-up world of criminal law!
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09 Nov, 2022 by Jessica
Scott helped my fiancé remove his bench warrant for a very low price compared with every other attorney we found, and after 6 additional court dates he turned a 60 day work release into 500 h community service. His total prices were half of what most lawyers were quoting us at for the same outcome. He was always helpful with all of my questions and suggestions and was never rude or disrespectful throughout the entire process. I would definitely recommend Scott as a lawyer. Thank you again Scott!
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24 May, 2019 by Marco
Back in 2011 I made a mistake and luckily didn't hurt anyone. Scott worked with me and helped me navigate the maze that is the justice system in San Diego. With his help I was able to put this behind me and move forward with my life. I highly recommend Scott, he has incredible communication and never once left me feeling like I made a mistake going to him.
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31 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
He made it! He did help me. Not only the job he did, he has great personality and responsibility. If you have any problem, you should go to see him. He is the right Lawyer to spend money.
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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:

  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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