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15 Apr, 2024 by Aleac williams
Let me start this off by saying Raphael is one of a kind and when you hire him your not just getting a paid lawyer you’re getting someone that’s going to really fight for you and you’re freedom because he really do care about you. He’s going to study your case and fight for you until he can’t fight anymore. He represented my brother and he did a fantastic job and where happy with the outcome. If you want the best Raphael M Scheetz is your guy.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Dewey michael
After going through car repossession and foreclosure in 2020, my credit score dropped to Equifax: 509, TransUnion: 501. All attempts to get my credit back to a good rating didn’t yield positive results. Just last month while I was browsing a credit blog, I came across a comment by Laura on how she got her credit fixed by PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST. Immediately, I reached out to PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST and asked if he could help fix my credit score too. He responded positively and I had to subscribe to his services. On checking my credit report after 6 days, my score had skyrocketed to Equifax: 806, TransUnion: 811. I also noticed that the car repossession, foreclosure, hard inquiries, and late payments on my credit report have been removed. What an awesome service! Here’s his contact info if you need his services; EMAIL:
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05 Oct, 2022 by Mariano huerta
I think I am very good defenders, they care and answer all your questions, I will hire them
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17 Feb, 2025 by Terry morton
I have been awarded social security disability benefits because of the hard work of attorney Corey Luedeman of RSH Legal.
After Corey took over my case, he literally did everything. He handled all communication from requesting medical records to meeting deadlines. All I had to do was update him on any medical changes.
Corey kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. At each stage, Corey explained what was happening, why, and what to expect. Corey was very knowledgeable about social security disability cases and really put my mind at ease.
I already recommended Corey and RSH Legal to a friend. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a competent and compassionate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Sean steichen
Corey was very helpful with my case. Very polite. Called me and let me know every time there was something new happening or when needed something from me.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Mohamed omer
I really appreciate all works Emily and Tonya did for me on my case keeping me updated and getting me a fair deal.
I’m really so happy with the RSH team
I recommend anyone who need help with and accident call RSH
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17 Feb, 2025 by Terry morton
I have been awarded social security disability benefits because of the hard work of attorney Corey Luedeman of RSH Legal.
After Corey took over my case, he literally did everything. He handled all communication from requesting medical records to meeting deadlines. All I had to do was update him on any medical changes.
Corey kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. At each stage, Corey explained what was happening, why, and what to expect. Corey was very knowledgeable about social security disability cases and really put my mind at ease.
I already recommended Corey and RSH Legal to a friend. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a competent and compassionate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Sean steichen
Corey was very helpful with my case. Very polite. Called me and let me know every time there was something new happening or when needed something from me.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Mohamed omer
I really appreciate all works Emily and Tonya did for me on my case keeping me updated and getting me a fair deal.
I’m really so happy with the RSH team
I recommend anyone who need help with and accident call RSH
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17 Feb, 2025 by Terry morton
I have been awarded social security disability benefits because of the hard work of attorney Corey Luedeman of RSH Legal.
After Corey took over my case, he literally did everything. He handled all communication from requesting medical records to meeting deadlines. All I had to do was update him on any medical changes.
Corey kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. At each stage, Corey explained what was happening, why, and what to expect. Corey was very knowledgeable about social security disability cases and really put my mind at ease.
I already recommended Corey and RSH Legal to a friend. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a competent and compassionate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Sean steichen
Corey was very helpful with my case. Very polite. Called me and let me know every time there was something new happening or when needed something from me.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Mohamed omer
I really appreciate all works Emily and Tonya did for me on my case keeping me updated and getting me a fair deal.
I’m really so happy with the RSH team
I recommend anyone who need help with and accident call RSH
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14 Mar, 2023 by Disgruntled mother
About 8 years ago he represented my ex at my 2nd domestic violence hearing (me being victim, and pregnant both times) and intimidated me into dropping the restraining order with the promise of seeing my daughter. That was a LIE! they went to the judge and asked for 5050 legal and my ex with primary physical and any interaction with my daughter was to my ex discretion. Fast forward to today and 9 dhs reports with 6 founded cases of abuse or neglect and 1 criminal charge against the step mom for smacking my 10 yro daughter (who has cp) across the face for a fruit snack. THANK YOU JOHN FOR HELPING MY ABUSER WHO NOW ABUSES OUR DAUGHTER.
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10 Mar, 2016 by Dave
Mike handled my case perfectly and professionally. Case was dismissed before he even needed to go to court. I would recommend him to anyone who needs a excellent defense attorney in Linn County, Iowa.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Mariano huerta
I think I am very good defenders, they care and answer all your questions, I will hire them
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28 Nov, 2021 by Karen muters
Personable, efficient, reliable individuals
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19 Feb, 2020 by Matt milburn
Just wanted to say that Rachel McCrate at this firm is awesome! Always professional, listens to my thoughts and concerns and most importantly is just a flat out smart attorney. Super glad to have her on my side when I have needed her!! Would recommend her to anyone!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Lindsay
If there was an option to give Dave 1 millionstars, I would. He is very diligent and prompt with answering telephone calls, emails, and text messages. He gave fantastic advice and Helped get me through probably the biggest challenge and mistake in my life. I recommend Dave to everyone. He was right there with me fighting my battles. I will forever be grateful, and God forbid If I were to need an attorney again, I would go to him with absolutely no hesitation.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Ashley amendt
David was exceptional. I found myself in a difficult situation and was unsure of my options. In my opinion, he worked hard to get me the best case scenario.
He was extremely diligent in his communications, kind, and thorough regarding all matters of my case. I left every conversation feeling that I was in good hands. You can tell that he has a deep understanding of the "behind the scenes" mechanics of a legal case and uses that to your advantage.
Thank you so much!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Ben snyder
IV known David for over 15 years and he knows his stuff, doesn't lie, very upfront from the start affordable. If you have any legal issues dealing with court law Davids your guy. Don't miss out on his expertise. He's at the top of the search list for attorneys in the area for a reason.
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.2
89 Reviews
07 Feb, 2025 by J m
Had scheduled consultations set up with Austin Norden to review a child support case. First meeting was supposed to be in his office at 11am. He called at 8:30am and said it would have to be over the phone and he'd call me at 11. 11 came and went with no phone call. I finally texted him at 11:30 asking if he was still available to meet, but got no response. At 11:45, I called him and got his voicemail. He immediately called back and acted like nothing happened. No apology, no explanation for missing the 11am meeting without notice. After a quick call explaining the situation, he said he would call back the next day at 3:30 to get more information. Well, 3:30pm came and went with, once again, nothing from him. He didn't even try to call or text me after missing this second appointment, and needless to say, I didn't try to contact him again, since being stood up twice in 2 days was not only rude and inconsiderate, but a window into what it would probably be like if we hired him. It's mind-blowing that someone could treat another person like this and not reach out to apologize. He clearly lacks common curtesy and manners in general. I'd save yourself the headache and hire someone who's reliable and actually cares!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Derek schroeder
All of the reviews seem to be for Tom. Iv had one of their lawyers assist me in a traffic case and he gave me 30 minutes of his time with really no results. I heard he may have been let go after my case which is good. Businesses need to perform and be accountable for their results.
I recently called in and spoke with a diffrent attourney and more or less he didn't want to help me. Iv got a bad taste in my mouth from this firm. I have not experienced Tom's performance. He is approaching $500/ hr.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Susan wasson
Tom and his crew were exceptional. He believed in my innocence and fought for me all the way. He even had to talk me off the ledge a time or two;) It was a very LONG process, but could not have had a better outcome. Anyone in the medical field that gets charged with bogus charges contract Tom!!!
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05 Oct, 2022 by Mariano huerta
I think I am very good defenders, they care and answer all your questions, I will hire them
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28 Nov, 2021 by Karen muters
Personable, efficient, reliable individuals
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19 Feb, 2020 by Matt milburn
Just wanted to say that Rachel McCrate at this firm is awesome! Always professional, listens to my thoughts and concerns and most importantly is just a flat out smart attorney. Super glad to have her on my side when I have needed her!! Would recommend her to anyone!
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29 Oct, 2020 by Derek r
04 Dec, 2024 by Alma h
03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Judy hamilton
Mark Brown is an exceptional attorney who helped my family through a difficult time. Mark worked hard and never gave us false hope, but in the end came through with flying colors and an acquittal of all charges. We couldn't be more appreciative and thankful for Mark's knowledge, efficiency, and professionalism. Mark's paralegal, Shari, was also courteous, prompt and a pleasure to work with. We highly recommend Mark Brown for legal needs in Iowa!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kimble slaman
I would not use Mark Brown to fight a parking ticket for me. His professional integrity comes into question. Not to be trusted.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Tim
09 Jan, 2025 by Kelly asquith
Victoria and her staff were amazing in my custody modification case. I've never trusted a lawyer untill I had her as one. She was aggressive in all the right ways, listened to me and helped achieve something I had been trying to get done for years. You cannot go wrong. No lawyer can guarantee a certain outcome, but she will put in the work for you. Absolutely amazing!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Josh koolbeck
Hands down one of the best attorneys around town with what he deals with. I was falsely accused of multiple situations and he had everything straightened out within a matter of a few minutes in court. He helped me get thru a tough spot that I may have lost had I not gotten the proper representation. He’s a very friendly and honest guy, but he also means business when it’s needed. Thanks again John. For everything.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Andrew gallagher
Victoria and her staff are knowledgeable, resourceful, and courteous with an expert level dedication to your case and all relevant details and findings. My case was complex and multifaceted, and it was handled with class, tenacity, and thorough follow through. Would recommend to anyone needing a top level no nonsense attorney. Everything you could want and expect in your time of need and professionalism.
My case was emotionally exhausting, and the countless hours her team spent preparing, researching, corroborating testimony, precedents, and obtaining records I had not previously possessed contributed to an extremely well prepared case at trial. From start to finish, she reminded me of the positives we had in front of us and urged me to lean on faith, wisdom, and love as I trusted the process. The decision came back favourable and I couldn’t have imagined getting here without Victoria and her team.
Eternally grateful for all your help and skills when I needed them the most.
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07 Feb, 2025 by J m
Had scheduled consultations set up with Austin Norden to review a child support case. First meeting was supposed to be in his office at 11am. He called at 8:30am and said it would have to be over the phone and he'd call me at 11. 11 came and went with no phone call. I finally texted him at 11:30 asking if he was still available to meet, but got no response. At 11:45, I called him and got his voicemail. He immediately called back and acted like nothing happened. No apology, no explanation for missing the 11am meeting without notice. After a quick call explaining the situation, he said he would call back the next day at 3:30 to get more information. Well, 3:30pm came and went with, once again, nothing from him. He didn't even try to call or text me after missing this second appointment, and needless to say, I didn't try to contact him again, since being stood up twice in 2 days was not only rude and inconsiderate, but a window into what it would probably be like if we hired him. It's mind-blowing that someone could treat another person like this and not reach out to apologize. He clearly lacks common curtesy and manners in general. I'd save yourself the headache and hire someone who's reliable and actually cares!
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Derek schroeder
All of the reviews seem to be for Tom. Iv had one of their lawyers assist me in a traffic case and he gave me 30 minutes of his time with really no results. I heard he may have been let go after my case which is good. Businesses need to perform and be accountable for their results.
I recently called in and spoke with a diffrent attourney and more or less he didn't want to help me. Iv got a bad taste in my mouth from this firm. I have not experienced Tom's performance. He is approaching $500/ hr.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Susan wasson
Tom and his crew were exceptional. He believed in my innocence and fought for me all the way. He even had to talk me off the ledge a time or two;) It was a very LONG process, but could not have had a better outcome. Anyone in the medical field that gets charged with bogus charges contract Tom!!!
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07 Feb, 2025 by J m
Had scheduled consultations set up with Austin Norden to review a child support case. First meeting was supposed to be in his office at 11am. He called at 8:30am and said it would have to be over the phone and he'd call me at 11. 11 came and went with no phone call. I finally texted him at 11:30 asking if he was still available to meet, but got no response. At 11:45, I called him and got his voicemail. He immediately called back and acted like nothing happened. No apology, no explanation for missing the 11am meeting without notice. After a quick call explaining the situation, he said he would call back the next day at 3:30 to get more information. Well, 3:30pm came and went with, once again, nothing from him. He didn't even try to call or text me after missing this second appointment, and needless to say, I didn't try to contact him again, since being stood up twice in 2 days was not only rude and inconsiderate, but a window into what it would probably be like if we hired him. It's mind-blowing that someone could treat another person like this and not reach out to apologize. He clearly lacks common curtesy and manners in general. I'd save yourself the headache and hire someone who's reliable and actually cares!
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Derek schroeder
All of the reviews seem to be for Tom. Iv had one of their lawyers assist me in a traffic case and he gave me 30 minutes of his time with really no results. I heard he may have been let go after my case which is good. Businesses need to perform and be accountable for their results.
I recently called in and spoke with a diffrent attourney and more or less he didn't want to help me. Iv got a bad taste in my mouth from this firm. I have not experienced Tom's performance. He is approaching $500/ hr.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Susan wasson
Tom and his crew were exceptional. He believed in my innocence and fought for me all the way. He even had to talk me off the ledge a time or two;) It was a very LONG process, but could not have had a better outcome. Anyone in the medical field that gets charged with bogus charges contract Tom!!!
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Judy hamilton
Mark Brown is an exceptional attorney who helped my family through a difficult time. Mark worked hard and never gave us false hope, but in the end came through with flying colors and an acquittal of all charges. We couldn't be more appreciative and thankful for Mark's knowledge, efficiency, and professionalism. Mark's paralegal, Shari, was also courteous, prompt and a pleasure to work with. We highly recommend Mark Brown for legal needs in Iowa!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kimble slaman
I would not use Mark Brown to fight a parking ticket for me. His professional integrity comes into question. Not to be trusted.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Tim
11 Mar, 2024 by Robert coker
11 Feb, 2024 by Angel rose
Waited three years for a win for a workman's comp case, but alas they took 25 percent of everything, out of pocket expenses and after being handed the check I'm not so sure it was worth it, I won 95 dollars and a debt that still isn't paid that's actively tank my credit from my accident three years ago. All so I can cash my winnings to immediately give it back to the people that issued it to me. What a scam
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09 Feb, 2024 by Just another patron
Great people here!! I can't say enough about how helpful, friendly, knowledgeable, and on top of it EVERYONE is in this office! If you need to leave a message, they're great about returning calls! Everyone is down to earth and whatever it is you need them for, you won't feel judged, (They've seen and heard it all!).
Hopefully I won't need their assistance again, but, if I do, Matt will be the first person I call (John's wonderful too!)
I highly recommend this firm!
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03 Nov, 2017 by Matt
Jase prepared wills & trusts for my wife and I. He was professional and engaging. He also provided some keen insights which we implemented but would not have had the foresight to cover on our own. Jase also charges a very reasonable fee. For all the reasons above, I have referred a number of people to him.
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02 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Jase for a Real Estate transaction. Not only was he super helpful and easy to work with, his staff was very helpful as well. From start to finish he walked me through the process of buying my first home. The documents were put together and explained to me using language that I could understand. I was super impressed with the way he handles business. 10 out of 10 would work with again!
Thank you for making my life super easy during what should have been a stressful time in my life.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a great experience at Howes Law Firm! Jase was a great attorney to work with! He was friendly, very attentive with my case. Fair priced and very thorough with explaining everything. I would recommend him to any and everyone!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Brad waltermyer
Reached out to Howes Law Firm to represent me during my divorce. During the entire process, they treated me not only as a client but as a person that was going through alot at the time. Matt Kashinami was my lawyer and did an awesome job of keeping things in perspective for me and helping me to make the right decisions. I can truly say that he is not only a great lawyer but a friend as well. If you don’t want to just be another client I highly recommend Matt and Howes Law Firm.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Ryan sears
07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
03 Dec, 2024 by Brad waltermyer
Reached out to Howes Law Firm to represent me during my divorce. During the entire process, they treated me not only as a client but as a person that was going through alot at the time. Matt Kashinami was my lawyer and did an awesome job of keeping things in perspective for me and helping me to make the right decisions. I can truly say that he is not only a great lawyer but a friend as well. If you don’t want to just be another client I highly recommend Matt and Howes Law Firm.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Ryan sears
07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
21 Oct, 2024 by Tim ulferts
Rich Pazdernik will take your money and leave you worse off.
No communication. Early on I met with Rich and he would ask the same questions as if hearing the case for the first time. He never understood it and mixed up names and details in his filings.
Rich quickly turned into a ghost. I documented calling him 18 times over two months before he talked to me for a couple of minutes. I was kept in the dark for months at a time.
Rich never answers questions. He ignores you and does what he wants.
Rich will miss deadlines. I had to call and demand Rich file the Appearance and Answer to my case the day before it was due. I could have lost my case by default.
Ignores Conflicts of Interest. Rich was negligent in checking for conflicts of interest before taking my case. Rich waited 6 months then quit my case because he discovered he previously worked for the guy who is suing me.
Excessive fees. I had to demand a billing 4 times and it took him 25 days to produce. Rich agreed to work for $250/hour but he billed me at $300/hour. He has billing entries for when he was out of town on vacation. It’s also a strange that his billing matches the retainer that I paid him.
Rich left me in the lurch. He quit on me 10 days before Pretrial. He said he would find a replacement attorney and never did. I had to file my own Motion for Continuance to avoid trouble with the court.
New attorney agrees Rich did not provide competent service. I was told the work he did is full of mistakes and done incorrectly. I regret going to Rich Pazdernik, he has caused stress and wasted my time and money. Before writing this review I talked to Rich in good faith about a refund or partial refund. He just gaslights me.
Ethics complaints have been filed against Rich to the Iowa Attorney Disciplinary Board.
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09 Oct, 2022 by Jack b
Pazdernik has done some serious job... After all, he gives deferred judgments, even when there was no probable cause for E-X-T-O-R-T=I-O-N. As for a legal defense, you're better off defending yourself, that is, if you even are issued a summons. So how do you defend yourself from a crime you did not commit, when in an orange jacket? Get a real lawyer, like Mathahs. Take them out for racketeering. They constantly create delinquent debt cases even without crimes. They report people wrong, commit perjury and fraud without any real defense for themselves. If they've tried you wrongly, report them to the DOJ and FBI. 5 stars for reading.
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17 Aug, 2021 by Matthew simcox
Great law firm.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Jessica miersen
31 Oct, 2023 by Anthony garden
sucks
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23 Mar, 2023 by Kate sirneelia
Very inexperienced and disappointed.
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17 Feb, 2021 by Lisa faust
Very helpful and professional. Documents were easily completed. Great prices.
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20 Dec, 2020 by John p
20 Dec, 2020 by Josh dumler
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.
