Lawyers map
>45
experienced lawyers
Filter by
19 Aug, 2022 by David
When I was charged with a DUI I knew that if it stuck that it would prevent my ability to succeed in my career and possibly limit my entry into Canada. When I consulted with Chris he helped educate me on what to expect and then whenever I got mail that didn’t make sense his team and he personally helped me know it was standard stuff and not to worry. Really grateful for having been referred to Chris.
Read more
03 Aug, 2022 by James
I had a DUI case that I thought my life was going to be over with when it was done. Chris helped me get the best case scenario for my case and explained everything clearly. Unlike other lawyers that use scare tactics to get your business, Chris gives you the truth and he is helpful with every step in your case.
Read more
29 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Bishop originally was my court appointed attorney, and I carried serious charges. Mr. Bishop was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and well respected in the courtroom. He presented my case confidentiality, thus producing an acceptable outcome. Fast forward five years with occasional communication, I hired Mr. Bishop without hesitation to renegotiate the terms of my lengthy probation. I’m grateful for the time, effort, and expertise he demonstrated at my hearing, thus resulting in an early termination of my relationship with the state supervision. I highly recommend Mr. Bishop to anyone that finds themselves in a position that potentially could alter their future negatively if not handled properly. Thank you Mr. Bishop for all you’ve done for me and my family.
Read more
30 Sep, 2020 by Kelli
Three cheers to Attorney Archie Speights and his Paralegal Debbie for outstanding support and professionalism! Archie has a proven track record of success that has earned him the reputation of the "Go To Attorney In Town" so hiring him was an absolute no brainer! It's simple, he's gets results!
Dealing with the law is an unfortunate reality faced by even the best of us. Anxiety, court appearances, and legal fees are just a few of the aspects that can tear away at an individual, leaving them feeling helpless and ostracized. Luckily, with a skilled attorney, such as Archie Speights, all of this can be mitigated. From the moment I called Archie he immediately started making phone calls gathering information on the case and was able to advise me on the spot. To say I was impressed is an understatement. His diligence and expertise was apparent from beginning. I was confident I chose the RIGHT lawyer! Do not ignore the importance of qualified counsel; it can undoubtedly be the difference between a complete upheaval of one's life and just a minor hiccup.
Read more
08 Nov, 2019 by Lg
Archie Speights handled my grandson’s case. He is highly intelligent, very professional and amusing. He is also kind and thoughtful. Several times during the hearing, he came and asked me if I was alright. Both my grandson and I are very pleased with the outcome. He is wonderful. Thank you so much. You are a blessing.
Read more
12 Jul, 2019 by K. oliver
Mr. Speights has a reputation for being BEST in his field and is highly respected among his peers in the Law Community. Hiring him was the obvious choice. Mr. Speights represented my father and without a doubt, handled his case spectacularly in a seemingly impossible situation. He obtained plea bargains that resulted in the judge charging my father with the lowest conditions that Georgia would allow. Only 3 months house arrest with no Jail time! This is unusual for 2 DUI convictions. I cannot praise or thank him enough for the outcome of my Dads case. I highly recommend him without reservation.
Read more
13 Aug, 2015 by Laura austin
When you've got the cross between a tough "kid" question and the parental fight, Marjorie is one of the best to keep it calm and find the resolution. Well versed and articulate in the law with a personal touch of true kindness.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
Read more
22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
Read more
22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
Read more
22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
152 Reviews
11 Sep, 2024 by Daniel hekmat
If you do not retain Grisham, Poole, & Carlile to represent you, be prepared to be represented by the second best, because these guys are by far the best. I was facing a lengthy prison sentence, it took some time and some hard work, but I am a free man thanks to Ross Grisham & team. It appears they have endless resources to help in your case, and they utilized all of them for me. Thank you so much Ross.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Margaret muguro
Kayla Upchurch took up our case for child support. She is enthusiastic, very articulate and dedicated. She is very knowledgeable in family law and we will be forever greatful to you and your team for your help in our case . I highly recommend Kayla for any law needs. Truly appreciate you Kayla ..
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Leah bailey
I would recommend using Kayla Upchurch for your divorce proceedings. I was so anxious going through this unfamiliar process, but Kayla never wavered in her confidence that we could get the results I needed. I trusted her confidence right through to the end, and she was right. She is easy to talk to & encouraging, and that made all the difference for me. I also felt like she was extremely reasonable in regards to billing. I would often hear from my ex-spouse that he was being texted daily by his attorneys and charged for every text and was frustrated. I never had this experience with Kayla OR her paralegal. This law firm as a whole treated me with respect and integrity and supported me through a process I never wanted to go through in the first place. I appreciate and recommend Kayla, especially.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Liv dillan
Burns Smith Law is an outstanding law firm. My lawyer Courtney and paralegal Trish have been incredible during this process and I am thankful and grateful for all their great work. I strongly recommend Burns Smith Law when you get a divorce.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Mermaid pinay
19 Aug, 2024 by Michael cushenberry
Andrew did a great job handling my situation and I trust him
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Daniel hekmat
If you do not retain Grisham, Poole, & Carlile to represent you, be prepared to be represented by the second best, because these guys are by far the best. I was facing a lengthy prison sentence, it took some time and some hard work, but I am a free man thanks to Ross Grisham & team. It appears they have endless resources to help in your case, and they utilized all of them for me. Thank you so much Ross.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Margaret muguro
Kayla Upchurch took up our case for child support. She is enthusiastic, very articulate and dedicated. She is very knowledgeable in family law and we will be forever greatful to you and your team for your help in our case . I highly recommend Kayla for any law needs. Truly appreciate you Kayla ..
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Leah bailey
I would recommend using Kayla Upchurch for your divorce proceedings. I was so anxious going through this unfamiliar process, but Kayla never wavered in her confidence that we could get the results I needed. I trusted her confidence right through to the end, and she was right. She is easy to talk to & encouraging, and that made all the difference for me. I also felt like she was extremely reasonable in regards to billing. I would often hear from my ex-spouse that he was being texted daily by his attorneys and charged for every text and was frustrated. I never had this experience with Kayla OR her paralegal. This law firm as a whole treated me with respect and integrity and supported me through a process I never wanted to go through in the first place. I appreciate and recommend Kayla, especially.
Read more
09 Apr, 2024 by Cathy saripkin
03 Mar, 2024 by Nicole t
No stars. Courtney Moss is Ospina's former partner. My child's custody was transferred by a caseworker outside of court order with no signatures and I was barred from her. I was never served or charged or prosecuted. I was demeaned in every way possible in legal filing referencing no tangibles and pulled into court with an inactive case number for the enforcement I filed for. DFCS,DCSS and the state are 10 years in arrears. I was demeaned as being stalked by police officers even as one was arrested. Both me and my child suffered from the trauma of being ripped away from each other and me from being barred and assaulted in custody under specific order. Judge Helhoski said she did not sign the warrant. They were trying to secure an obstruction and DFCS was trying to secure my signature. They got neither. They told me to show up and be forced to reunification. I requested they were prosecuted for the irreparable damage they caused. My daughter was sending messages that she wanted kill herself. They belong in prison.
Read more
04 Nov, 2023 by Rosanne wells
Awesome attorney with great service
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jeff
Thank you Jeff my case was handled in half a day when he is hired expect the best results.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Angela pannell
KAM WAS AMAZING. He helped my son navigate the system which is very confusing. He and Jeff went over an above. I HIGHLY recommend them and would not hesitate to do so. I hope we never need them again, but if we do, will not even question coming back
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Vernon
There was a time, I was a credit disaster, I knew absolutely nothing about how credit works. I’d pay bills late thinking paying late was better than not paying at all. To be honest, I didn’t even know negatives lasted on your reports for 7 years. Why did I pay late? Because at the time, I’d think I needed to buy something shiney and then pay bills. To further my reckless behaviors, I had my house foreclosed on. To be honest, I don’t know why I checked my credit, which ultimately led me to this site where I found PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST, but I’m glad I did, reading as much testimonies as I could. My starting score was (low 500’s). All thanks to PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST, as of today, I’m sitting at EX: 808, TU: 812 and my lowest is EQ: 801. If I can offer one piece of advice that helped me, I’ll advise you to contact PINNACLE by email:
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Angela pannell
KAM WAS AMAZING. He helped my son navigate the system which is very confusing. He and Jeff went over an above. I HIGHLY recommend them and would not hesitate to do so. I hope we never need them again, but if we do, will not even question coming back
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Angela pannell
KAM WAS AMAZING. He helped my son navigate the system which is very confusing. He and Jeff went over an above. I HIGHLY recommend them and would not hesitate to do so. I hope we never need them again, but if we do, will not even question coming back
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela vazquez
14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Very good lawyer. She did everything that she said she would do for me. Very timely. Very knowledgeable. This was a criminal case.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Dana
Amanda and Scarlett have been complete rockstars for my case. Amanda is a true realist of this is how the law works. It was unfortunately a long, drawn out process due to my ex, but Amanda and Scarlett gave me peace of mind to stay grounded and know the truth always unfolds itself and justice will be served. Thank you to the two greatest women to have on your side when going through such a difficult time!
Read more
5.0
6 Reviews
4.5
27 Reviews
04 Sep, 2024 by Shwanna
I needed a lawyer on very short notice, ( 2 weeks.) I called him, I met with him, and I paid him. He showed up for court and everything was smooth sailing from that point. Case dismissed. Mr. Kesler treats you with respect. He listens, gives great advice, and is very knowledgeable. I doubt any other lawyer would give money back. While I don’t plan on needing a criminal lawyer again, I can wholeheartedly refer him to anyone looking for an exceptional lawyer who would represent them!!! Thank You!!!!
Read more
11 Feb, 2024 by My 3 plus me family love in real reality
Barry Bishop is absolutely the best there is. He actually cares about his clients and wants the best outcome for them. He makes you feel like you are the most important client. I am extremely blessed that he was my lawyer. Also his secretary was always kind and went outside of the norm for me when she didn’t have to. I’m Aquisha Smith and recommend using Mr. Barry!!
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by Sade cox
If you are of color, please do not allow Angela Trethway to represent you. She will let you sit in jail and not communicate at all with you . She doesn't return calls to parents because she said she's not obligated to. I was totally outdone as a grandparent when she called me back only because I kept calling her and said I was obnoxious. What has this world come to. Pleased find another attorney because Angela Trethway made it real clear that she doesn't deal with people if color. I even recorded it. SHAMEFUL !!!
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Angela pannell
KAM WAS AMAZING. He helped my son navigate the system which is very confusing. He and Jeff went over an above. I HIGHLY recommend them and would not hesitate to do so. I hope we never need them again, but if we do, will not even question coming back
Read more
05 Jul, 2024 by Mitch granger
Josh is amazing, detailed and always forward looking. He has everyone’s best interests in mind.
Read more
30 May, 2024 by Heather fowler
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal services provided by The Mason Law Firm during my highly contested divorce. After over four years, largely due to delays caused by COVID-19, Joshua and his team remained steadfast, diligent, and fiercely dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for me and my family.
From the beginning, they demonstrated exceptional expertise, guiding me through each challenging step with patience and clarity. Their unwavering support and strategic approach were invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. Even amidst the pandemic's uncertainties, they maintained clear communication and ensured that every detail was meticulously handled.
Thanks to their hard work and determination, I was able to secure the outcome I desired. I highly recommend The Mason Law Firm to anyone in need of a compassionate, skilled, and tenacious divorce attorney. Their commitment to their clients' well-being is truly commendable.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Nathan price
Josh and his Firm should be your first choice for Divorce and Family Law in Cherokee and Pickens County. From the moment I met with him, I could tell he was extremely knowledgeable in divorce cases and how people will behave during divorce . He was compassionate to my situation which included kids and gave me great advice from the beginning. As a man who was greatly concerned about the children, Josh understood and helped my achieve a result I never thought possible, custody of the children. Over a two year period of Divorce, Josh and his team of excellent paralegals helped me negotiate a Divorce filed with unexpected twists and turns. When we went to court he was the most prepared attorney in the court room each time. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this process. So thankful I choose Josh Mason as my attorney. Truly a blessing from God in a situation I never dreamed to be in.
Read more
27 Sep, 2023 by Gary henderson
Whit Frost is an amazing Lawyer. He is passionate, ethical, and handled my case with professionalism. He stood in my corner and watching him in court is impressive.
Read more
02 Aug, 2023 by Ardell bailey
28 Jun, 2023 by Chris sterger
Whit Frost took over my divorce case and has been nothing short of AMAZING!!! Whit consistently won the day in court with a level headed focus on the evidence and on the story from a big picture perspective. He also has displayed a calm yet firm demeanor throughout the case and has been an excellent souce of good counsel throughout. He showed that he cares numerous times and also, has been very fair in his billing practices. If you need a lawyer for a domestic situation in Cherokee County, Whit should be the first and only call.
Read more
28 Jan, 2024 by David thompson
03 Oct, 2023 by David byers
29 Mar, 2023 by Jenny matthews
28 Jan, 2024 by David thompson
03 Oct, 2023 by David byers
29 Mar, 2023 by Jenny matthews
28 Jan, 2024 by David thompson
03 Oct, 2023 by David byers
29 Mar, 2023 by Jenny matthews
28 Jan, 2024 by David thompson
03 Oct, 2023 by David byers
29 Mar, 2023 by Jenny matthews
28 Jan, 2024 by David thompson
03 Oct, 2023 by David byers
29 Mar, 2023 by Jenny matthews
05 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
I would put no stars if possible. Michael was supposed to represent my son in his divorce. He talked a very good game when we hired him. And oh were we mislead. $5k for nothing. He did not fight for him at all! He would have been better off representing himself. So a little advice for everyone. Do not use this lawyer. Save your money and go somewhere else. Michael is very cocky with everyone except the opposing party. So if you already have this lawyer, I'm sorry! But if you’re thinking of getting him don’t do it!
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
