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William Paul Kennedy, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Carrollton, TX with 16 reviews
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39,33
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4.7/5
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4.7
16 Reviews
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26 Feb, 2024 by Joseph capasso 469 964 9322
BILL KENNEDY, IS THE WORST OF THE WORST ATTORNEY I EVER DEALT WITH, IN 2011 HE WAS HANDLING 2 CASES, THE 1ST WAS AN ACCIDENT I HAD WITH MY COBALT , MY DAUGHTER'S CAR (2008 WITH 28K), SOMEONE HAD CUT ME OFF FORCING ME OFF ROAD ON THE SIDEWALK, THE CAR WAS TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP IN PLANO, HE DECIDED TO GO AFTER LIBERTY MUTUAL, SINCE THEIR CLIENT TOOK LIABILITY, THE WORST MISTAKE I EVER MADE TO GO AND SEE KENNEDY AND HIS LEGAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR BETHANY, THEIR RECOMMENDATION WAS WAS TO REPAIR THE CAR AND KEEP IT ,LIBERTY WAS PAYING FOR AND RECEIVE $7992 TO REDUCE MY PAYOFF, I WAS AT A FUNERAL AND BETHANY (THE LEGAL AFFAIR DIRECTOR, THAT ALSO WAS SUPPOSE TO BE A LICENSED ATTORNEY) TOLD ME THAT IF I DIDN'T DECIDE ON THE RECOMMENDED SETTLEMENT, LIBERTY MUTUAL WAS CANCELLING THE CHECKS FOR SALVAGE YARD FEES AND REPAIRS AT THE DEALERSHIP, BEING OUT OF STATE AT A FUNERAL ,I ASKED HER TO PLEASE HAVE BILL KENNEDY OR HER CALL LIBERTY MUTUAL AND EXPLAIN THAT I COULDN'T GET BACK TO TOWN FOR ANOTHER 3 DAYS AND THAT LIBERTY HAD TO WAIT. I SHOWED UP AT BILL KENNEDY'S OFFICE ON JOSEY LANE IN CARROLLTON AND HAD TO FINISH DEALING WITH BETHANY ( TOTAL INCOMPETENT) SHE ALREADY HAD THE CHECK FROM LIBERTY MUTUAL FOR 7992 MADE OUT TO ME AND MY CREDIT UNION, I ASKED HER IF BILL KENNEDY HAD REVIEWED ALL THE PAPER WORK, BETHANY SAID ,THEY BOTH DID, I WAS TO ENDORSE THE CHECK AND THAT THEY WERE MAILING IT TO SAC CREDIT UNION TO REDUCE MY PAY OFF FROM APPROX 10600 TO 2600,AND FOR ME TO PICK UP THE CAR AT THE DEALERSHIP AND ALL THE THE REPAIR S WERE PAID FOR, I ASKED HER AGAIN IF BILL KENNEDY HAD REVIEWED THE PAPER WORK AND WHAT HAPPENED WITH LIBERTY MUTUAL ADJUSTER AND WHY THE PHONE CALL WHILE I WAS AT THE FUNERAL, WHEN I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO PICK UP THE CAR, I WAS TOLD THAT LIBERTY MUTUAL HAD STOPPED ALL THE REPAIR CHECKS, ( AS THE ADJUSTER TREATED TO DO OUT OF SPITE, (KENNEDY OR FANSLER NEVER CALLED HIM. I WAS FORCED TO LET THE DEALERSHIP BUY THE CAR FOR THE AMOUNT OF THE REPAIRS AND THE BALANCE OF 2600 PAY OFF,THE CAR WAS WORTH CLOSE TO 15000, AND IF THE LAWYERS DID THEIR JOB AND HAVE THE CAR TOTALLED I WOULD HAVE ENDED UP WITH 4500 DIFFERENCE, AT THE TIME I DIDN'T HAVE MUCH CHOICE , SINCE I WAS GOING THROUGH A NASTY DIVORCE, UNFORTUNATELY I WAS ALREADY INVOLVED WITH MY SECOND CASE, A CHAIN REACTION ACCIDENT( I WAS STOPPED AT A LEFT TURN TRAFFIC LIGHT AT PRESTON RD AND MCCALLUM) AND WAS REAR ENDED BY 4 DIFFERENT CARS, MY YOUNGER DAUGHTER ALESSANDRA WAS WITH ME IN THE CAR, I WAS TRANSPORTED TO A NEAR BY HOSPITAL AT THE TUNE OF 24.000 FOR 7 HRS AT PRESBYTERIAN, THE VEHICLE THAT REAR ENDED ME ENDED UP ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD , MY DAUGHTER ALESSANDRA WAS PICKED UP BY HER MY EX-WIFE, NOT ONLY BETHANY FANSLER DID NOT INCLUDE MY DAUGHTER IN THE LAWSUIT BUT SETTLED THE CASE WITHOUT MY PERMISSION AND THE LAWSUIT WENT FROM 100K WITH ALL THE EXPENSES TO A SETTLEMENT OF 14.000 HE NEVER RETURNS HIS PHONE CALLS, AND MOVED TO A DIFFERENT LOCATION IN CARROLLTON.
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07 Feb, 2020 by Mindy
Bill worked with us financially to pay for my sons defense and was able to get him the best outcome we could have hoped for. He and his staff were absolutely amazing and always available.
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19 Jul, 2019 by Teresa
I hired bill Kennedy a couple days after new years when I called him I was very upset and scared. He immediately assured me things were gonna be ok and set up a meeting with me next day. His associate and him were very professional and thorough and were able to get my case taken care of I am very thankful to them for I was in a lot of trouble I would recommend them to anyone I know
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Daniel Edwards Moore, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Carrollton, TX with 97 reviews
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39,10
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5.0/5
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5.0
97 Reviews
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29 Nov, 2024 by Efraín vásquez
Amazing firm that genuinely cares. They kept checking on me even after my case was resolved. You can tell they go the extra mile.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Bryan lopez
From the start they were very professsion, helpful and welcoming. I would recommend them to anyone who requires their services.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Marine loose
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Marianela Flores, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Carrollton, TX with 1 reviews
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39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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17 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I would say the attention to detail that Marinela F.demonstrated sets her apart from the competition.She handled my immigration issue quickly and i have been so pleased with the level of service and quality that i would encourage anyone to call Marinela Flores. Monica C
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Melinda Smothermon Helsley, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Carrollton, TX with 689 reviews
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36,40
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4.8/5
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4.8
689 Reviews
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27 Jan, 2025 by Paul rennie
Austin is a very experienced, straightforward attorney who guided my family through a complex maze to a wonderful outcome…have already recommended him to others.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Evan ramsey
Mr. Kennedy and his team were great to work with during a recent civil matter I was dealing with. I highly recommend them!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Liz tapia cardenas
Words cannot express how grateful I am for such a GREAT attorney. Austin Hartley and Seth are excellent attorneys! Not only did they have the resources to investigate and prepare my case, they also went above and beyond to show me they cared about my wellbeing and cared about my case by paying attention to the smallest details. They had empathy for my situation and they were very involved in my case from start to finish, providing excellent communication throughout the process. I highly recommend them! Thank you for ALL you did for me on my case.
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Yolanda Marie Torres, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 3 reviews
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35,09
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
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16 Feb, 2018 by Justin m
Very informative. Yolanda gave me plenty of information to move forward with given my particular situation, and even recommended attorneys specializing in my type of case. Phone consult was only $85 and well worth the money. I have email after email of information from her regarding my charge/ conviction and what to expect in the near future. Very polite, professional, and understanding. Would highly recommend. 5 stars.
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06 Aug, 2014 by Dr. david
I hired Yolanda Torres, Esq. to represent my girlfriend for her parole hearing before the BPP for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Ms. Torres is one of the best parole attorneys in Texas who does more than throw together a “parole pack” like so many parole attorneys do. I took the time to talk with several parole attorneys, checking their background and professionalism, and even visiting them before I hired Ms. Torres. She is an advocate who specializes in prisoner civil rights and litigation, in addition representing parole and revocation matters. We wanted an attorney who would give my girlfriend the best chance of coming home on parole. Ms. Torres reviewed the entire picture for my girlfriend, criminal records, her activities in prison, including behavior, discipline and education, and made a recommendation of what we could expect. Ms. Torres worked closely with my girlfriend, kept me and her family informed of her progress and had a meeting with the BPP members. Ms. Torres is an excellent attorney and I cannot say enough about what she did for us. It helped that my girlfriend was a model prisoner, doing all she could to better herself and make sure that she was ready to come home to have a good life. She took all the self-help and development courses she could, as well as education programs that should help her get a good job. Ms. Torres made sure that everything was done right, support letters, interviews, meeting and really advocated for my girlfriend. . The final result is that my girlfriend was granted parole by the BPP and will soon be released from prison. I am sure that without her, my girlfriend would still be in prison and wondering what more she could do herself. I high recommend Ms. Torres to anyone who has problems with prison officials, or want to give someone they love the best chance of being released on parole. Ms. Torres was worth every penny we paid for her legal services.
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13 Jul, 2008 by Anonymous
I contacted Ms. Torres when my son, who is in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, was the victim of a prison guard who wrote a trumped up disciplinary case against him. The case caused my son to lose his parole release date. Ms. Torres not only had the disciplinary conviction reversed and removed from my son's record, she worked with the parole authorities to have his parole release date reinstated and have my son released from prison. She continued to follow up on the case until my son was actually released and walked out of prison. Without her, my son would still be in prison and have that disciplinary case on his record!! I recommend Ms. Torres to anyone who is having any problems with prison officials or inside of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
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Lan'Tiqua Marsha Burks, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 169 reviews
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33,78
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4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
169 Reviews
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29 Jan, 2025 by Maria veronica soto
The team of lawyers at Le Brock & Horner are excellent, the most important thing is the ethics and professionalism with which they handle their clients cases. I recommend 100%.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Edward.3r (iamedroj4z)
Mr. Le Brocq is definitely the go to Attorney, excellence and professionalism.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Guillermo castellanos
This law firm has extraordinary performance, Stephen and his team analyzed my case in a very professional manner, they have extensive knowledge and experience in business issues and the judicial process. make you feel confident in every step and protect your interests at a very fair cost! I really congratulate you and thank you very much for your support! I recommend them 100%
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Juan Carlos Benitez, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Carrollton, TX with 169 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,78
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4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
169 Reviews
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29 Jan, 2025 by Maria veronica soto
The team of lawyers at Le Brock & Horner are excellent, the most important thing is the ethics and professionalism with which they handle their clients cases. I recommend 100%.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Edward.3r (iamedroj4z)
Mr. Le Brocq is definitely the go to Attorney, excellence and professionalism.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Guillermo castellanos
This law firm has extraordinary performance, Stephen and his team analyzed my case in a very professional manner, they have extensive knowledge and experience in business issues and the judicial process. make you feel confident in every step and protect your interests at a very fair cost! I really congratulate you and thank you very much for your support! I recommend them 100%
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Leddie C. Taylor, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Carrollton, TX with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,26
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4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
3 Reviews
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07 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I was referred to Leddie C Taylor from my network to represent a Civil Lawsuit, I checked the reviews and his area of practice and contacted them and provided all the information. After I follow-up couple times I get the response all he does is Wills and nothing else. I suggest they update the practice areas and not waste other peoples time
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24 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Leddie and his team did an excellent job of updating our wills and livings will legal documents in a knowledge and professional manner.
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12 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney. His legal assistant was very nice and extremely helpful. They always returned my phone calls. Mr. Taylor has been an attorney for a long time and he knows what he is doing. I would highly recommend him.
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Scott Edward Parker, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,07
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3.4/5
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3.4
5 Reviews
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15 May, 2024 by Bryan dyer
Absolutely a champion and the best man you want in your corner! Not only will he fight for you but his professionalism is outstanding. I would recommend him to anyone that would need his legal services!
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08 May, 2024 by Lori lewis
First attorney that gave me his cell phone number, truly listended to me, did not pressure me for money every day, was 100% professional! This was for family law.
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05 Aug, 2021 by Jason johnson
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Gilbert David de La Garza, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 4 reviews
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16,33
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3.0/5
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3.0
4 Reviews
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17 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
My case was suppose to take like a month supposedly by what he said to me going on a year now no results no updates no calls about the case but calls for his money. I do not recommend him at all very pricey for nothing. He has taken so much money and cant get him to return my calls I thought he was suppose to defend me still waiting one year later very sad he is not a pro
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16 Feb, 2017 by Jaime
well presented, up front with great advise whether good or bad, of course its your choice on if u wana plea or go to trial....was always there when needed, great payment plan.... I've used him twice & was treated just as good as the 1st time... slap on the hand with the 1st case which of course was my fault & without him being so good at what he does it would of cost me more $$$ court cost & fines & or jail time... 2n time i used him he got me a dismissal because of how hard he works the prosecutors... he knows what he is doing....i will use him again if need be & will recommend to any & everyone.... thanks Gill
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10 Feb, 2017 by Edward
I hired Mr. De La Garza to handle a case for me and he went above and beyond of what was asked of him. He was very professional and well prepared for the case he handled. The outcome was better that I had hoped for and without his persistent work ethic and attention to detail this could have gone in the wrong direction for me. I will recommend him to anyone who asks for a good attorney. Thank you Mr. De La Garza for all you did for me and my family.
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Stephen Kenji Le Brocq, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Joan Elizabeth Ballard, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Carrie J. Morris, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Cody Woods Martin, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Robert Crill, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Carrollton, TX with  reviews
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Tricia Kay Perry Baker, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Rod Khavari, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Kathryn Ann Ritcheske, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Thomas Stuart Nelson, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Ronith Eleanora Herman, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Darren Jay Ralstin, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Albert Isaiah Thomas, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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Hanbit Psymon Chung, experienced Child Support, Criminal Defense attorney in Carrollton, TX with 0 reviews
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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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