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13 Oct, 2024 by Charles
I was in a fight in millerburg at a race track. No lawyers wanted to take the case because of the jurisdiction it was in. I contacted a lawyer and he referenced mr haupt who called Me. Under Ohio law 2905.1 section B I had EVERY right to stand my ground and protect myself and anyone in my party from danger that had occurred I even teyed to defuse the situation before throwing the punch that ended the situation. Me and Mr haupt went back and fourth for months. I gave him evidence I was protecting the people. Video proof. Voice recording from the person i protected stating I was defending her. It should have been an open close case. Mr haupt basically told me I was pleading guilty and slid my final payment back to me in the lobby of the court before trial (I have my cousin as a witness to this). When we went in he didn’t even attempt to fight for me he let me take a guilty plea because we agreed on the probation terms that I could use my medical marijuanna card due to the accident that occurred because of the courts (I was ran over coming back to my town from having to check in) before I was even coherent enough to go to court a month after my brain injury I had to plead guilty to the offense. After being on probation for one year they are changing my originally agreed to terms and taking my medication away from me. I tryed to reach out for help and Mr haupt has yet to respond even tho he told me that day to contact him in 9 months and he would get my probation dropped. I would represent myself in court before I would hire him to do anything other then file a motion.
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01 Oct, 2024 by David d
First off i want to start by saying I think Jim is the best defense Attorney in stark County hands down he's like a pit bull in the courtroom he leaves know Stones Unturned he's very thorough i was charged with a F3 burglary and a theft which is a misdemeanor this has took 8 months out of my life not to mention all the money that it has cost me and I haven't slept in 8 months so today I was found not guilty of all charges so to all that reads this review if you retain Jim as your attorney you can't go wrong it's the best decision that you could have ever made
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02 Jun, 2023 by Shawn
Jim defended me in a sexual assault case that we won unanimously no debate. I was falsely accused. He is a good lawyer, he is patient with you, lets you give your opinion, has resourceful connections to assist you, a calm level headed person and fights for his clients. He keeps a tight defense as well, anything that can be used against you possibly he makes sure he doesn’t use it. If the state is trying to beat him they will really have to EARN it, he isn’t gonna give them ANYTHING. The best thing is he tells you the absolute truth. He doesn’t just tell you “you’re gonna win the case” just to get your money just like most lawyers do. He lets you know what you’re facing and tells you he is gonna put in effort. He is careful with his words and doesn’t try to make promises he can’t keep. Jim gave me a free consultation and even gave me some immediate advice before I even hired him that helped me beat my case in my opinion. If I wouldn’t have listened to his advice I would’ve probably lost my case because no matter if you’re innocent or not the police don’t care, they just want an conviction. He catches details that many may gloss over to help you. I had many people testify against me and he made all of them look like fools. Police and detectives included. He also is liked by alot of people in the courthouse which MATTERS ALOT. To everyone Anybody dissatisfied with his communication, his communication method is more old school, its best to text him asking what time is best to meet or when you can call than to text him about small things. He’ll remember whatever you text when you talk though.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Christi
We hired Aaron to help with family visitations with my granddaughter. He was the worst attorney I have ever had. Mr. Kovalchik uses no aggression or fight for your rights no does he listen to what you have to say. Save your money and get an attorney who will fight for your rights!
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23 Jul, 2014 by Nicole
Aaron is an amazing lawyer. He works hard for his clients and is creative in ligation. I have referred him to several people that have used and are pleased with his services.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
This appointed lawyer is such a joke did not even let me talk and let me tell my side of the story he just said the judge is doing this and this is what it is I hadn't even got to talk to the judge yet he had no interest in nothing I had to say because you wouldn't even let me say anything he is a joke and I don't think he even needs to be even appointed a lawyer because he is the worst I have came across and many others I know have came across. I wouldn't even give him one star but since I can't give a zero star I'm giving him a one. Not only did he mess my case up and send me to prison but he did my dude the same way. His words was "I read over your police report and blah blah blah and blah blah blah blah and I see why the cops pulled you over blah blah blah and this blah blah blah and that's all he kept saying is blah blah blah well blah blah blah please go somewhere else and work because this is not a good profession for you".
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02 Aug, 2023 by Charles
Thank you so much for your help it was a blessing to have you represent me in court again thank you so much
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20 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Did not communicate
Did not interview witnesses
Refused to watch dash cam
That's some public defenders should still do the job they are supposed to do
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10 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Hired Attorney Dahl to dispute a child support case. The case was lost because the attorney failed to have me provide proof of my income and bills. Paid over $4000 in fees for his services and am now also liable for $2300 in child support arrears on top of having my support more than doubled.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I admire his ambition to pursue his career and passing the bar, however he’s a few weaves short of a water basket. Emotionally and financially driven, he has no business in representing anyone from the general public.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not hire this person to represent you for stark county family court! He was always unprepared. He had his secretary retype anything I provided him as evidence. What would have taken me 15 minute to edit, he had her rewrite charging me extra hours of time for the effort. I brought up the subject of switching attorneys, but he said no one would take my case due to how far along into the divorce process as we were. He was a total con artist, promising me success and resulting in devastating failure.
My ex got everything she wanted and more. I was awarded less visitation time with my children after the divorce was final than what I was receiving during the separation time before it was final. Financially, I was ruined. I'm embarrassed to say how much money I ended up paying this joker over the course of my case. Lastly, this guy made disparaging sexual references to me about various women who came up in our coversation. I politely changed the subject when he did. For example, he talked about the legs of a female professional involved in the case, and how he would totally bang her. This discussion was unprovoked by me. I never talked about such things.
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08 Dec, 2018 by Tim
Seth did a terrible job for me in family court. Honestly, I would have fared much better without an attorney. His incompetence cost me plenty, and not just the $10,000 I paid him. When it came time for court he refused to mount any defense at all. He missed one hearing altogether and showed up about ten minutes before trial and told me he wouldn't discuss his strategy.
I see why. He didn't have one. He made no effort to defend me. He then came out and told me the judge had basically made up her mind and it wouldn't be worthwhile to go ahead with the trial. He seemed more interested glad-handing with the opposing attorney. I'm so sorry I trusted him. I can't be more emphatic. DO NOT HIRE THIS CLOWN
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06 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney missed a court appearance and failed to demonstrate a commitment to me, his client. Look further for an attorney you can trust to show and do what he/she is supposed to do. It's not Tony Kaplanis that you want representing you.
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22 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
The person that went before the judge after me had the same charges against him and got a fine that was $200 less then mine and he didn't have to do alcohol counseling. That guy didn't even have a lawyer. I feel kaplanis was a waste of time and money, I wouldn't recommend him to anyone. If you have an ovi charge you're better off on your own than having this guy represent you.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
This man is very sorry unprofessional and tactless sexist unorganized rude and ignorant I would never recommend this man to anyone he needs to have his license taken away.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Randy
just now
The most unprofessional unorganized business I have ever seen. You get what you pay for. Facts: My file was lost in the stacks and stacks of files when I arrived for my last meeting. They searched for almost a half an hour and still couldn't find it. My paperwork was not properly filed and if I would have not done the legwork myself running paperwork to the courthouse last minute, I would have had to start my case from the very begininng with a new lawyer due to deadlines. Phone calls were never returned. Upon telling Mr Golub that I didn't feel confident with his work after he failed to file paperwork and blamed it on my bank after his secretary previously confirmed she had the paperwork, and lost my file, he became very uncomposed to say the least and told me to get out of his office. He yelled within inches of my face, spit flying, pointing his finger in my face. Telling me to come back when I feel more confident. He slammed his door and told me I could just sit there all day, that he wasn't helping me. He told me I was the worst client he has ever had. When he finally helped me, he became angry that I read what I was signing and slammed down the papers crumpling them up. Mr Golub also made several comments about my appearance and said we obviously have very different standards. When I asked to have information to complete courses he told me I couldn't take them yet because he owed them money. This was on two different occasions, months apart. Would never recommend him to anyone. It's not worth the extra couple hundred of dollars you save to be constantly stressed and worried that your case is not being handled properly. The case was taken care of on time. But I had to constantly follow up with them, and as previously stated, the final piece of Information the courts needed to settle my case would not have been in their hands if I had not taken it to them. He had the paperwork in his possession for 2 months.
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25 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
The minute I walked into his office....I should have left and never came back. The disarray of his office should have been enough to make me leave, but this was my first time filling BKO so I didn't know what to expect. Mr. Golub is a nice man but is very unorganized.
Further into the BKO I called him several times concerning reaffirmation letters for my car and house, after several attempts with no communication, I took maters into my own hands and spoke with many Customer Service Rep's and bank supervisors--the bottom line was, he needed to submit paper work--NOTHING WAS EVER SUBMITTED. I then went to his office (his secretary does everything) and made sure he submitted all necessary forms. This was one of the most stressful things I ever went through. He assured me by filling Chapter 13, I would not loose my home or my car--well, I almost did!! No thanks to Mr. Golub. To this day, I still don't know why I am paying him over $1,300. 00 when I did a crap load of work. I thought that was the attorney's job?
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
