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18 Nov, 2021 by Russell
When you’ve been wrongfully terminated, there’s only one option, Michael Elliot. When you need support, and commitment Michael Elliott provides that. In a time when you’ve been wronged Michael Elliott cares, not only from a financial perspective, but from an integrity perspective as well. It’s not always about money. Sometimes you want your name cleared, to be heard, and to be given the respect back that you deserve, and he cares about all that equally. Michael Elliott values your time, with little interruption to your new employer, and family time. Within the first few minutes of our first phone conversation, I knew my previous employers team didn’t stand a chance. I was right! He understands you as a client, and gets results in a timely manner, and he expedites the process to the best of his ability. In an uncertain time, you never would have thought you would be in, you want the best! Michael Elliott fills that void undoubtably. In the end it’s all about what’s right, and that’s what was important to me, my family, Michael Elliot, and his team. I am forever grateful for his hard work, dedication, and commitment in making me feel like I was his top priority. With professional representation, and unparalleled trust to get the results you want, and expect Michael Elliot provides all of that.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Steven
I had an out-of-North Carolina past employer issue and Mr. Elliott represented my concerns. Persistence and patience paid off! We won more than I initially expected as he uncovered additional opportunities. He’s professional, knowledgeable and courteous. Thank you.
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10 Jan, 2019 by David
I wanted to protect myself and also understand the terms of my severance agreement / package. Michael reviewed my documents, translated the terms, and consulted with me on what he believed would be the best next steps. Best money I've ever spent!
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23 Feb, 2016 by Brandy
David is awesome! I was charged with a traffic violation and he got it dismissed! He was fast, efficient and affordable.
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24 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
David is by far the best attorney I've ever had he is very smart and has so many clients and still managed to keep me and my mother beyond informed. He devotes his entire life to his job more than most attorneys do. He also managed to solve my case of 9 felonies for selling heroin to an undercover detective to just 22 days in county jail and basic probation with just 2 convictions. I would recommend David as your next lawyer he is the best at what he does and to this day I will still call him for legal advice and he is always right! Thank you David!
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12 Mar, 2014 by Shannon
David not only represented us for traffic violation, he also kept our insurance from going up and handled due to an error by the clerk of court David took the time to drop what he was doing and run up to handle issues out of his control on our behalf. Most attorneys do the one job and then are done with you, not David! He went far beyond measures every time I called in order to get things done at a fraction of the cost mind you! He then followed up after each issue to be sure it was handle! I can't even say enough to thank him!
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24 Nov, 2023 by Michael
I approached the Law Office of Kelli Allen in about February of this year ( 2023) to help me submit my Green Card Application. I was assigned to Berna Chacon- a bilingual specialist in data accumulation for Green Card submissions. Thank G-d I was. She was absolutely outstanding. I mean truly- it took me a while to accumulate the necessary data ( necessary being whatever Berna told me to put together) and we submitted my application in June of this year. Today is November 24, 2023, and guess what- I have my Green Card Truly great work by Berna -what a help she was! I couldnt have done it so seamlessly without her!. Prices at this office are reasonable to. And nice, and accomodating people! I would go out of my way to recommend this law office and Berna to handle anybody's immigration matters. What a great job they did and I am one happy camper!
Michael F
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02 Oct, 2023 by Pat
The Law Office of Kelli Y. Allen played a pivotal role in my complex case, which spanned over two years. Their expertise helped me avoid jail time, and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Ben, my dedicated lawyer. I wholeheartedly endorse their services and deeply appreciate their unwavering support.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Hunter
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Ben, my criminal lawyer, for his unwavering commitment to keeping me informed about my case and addressing all matters. His professionalism, kindness, and deep knowledge in his field have been truly exceptional. I am deeply appreciative of his assistance, always promptly returning my calls and patiently answering all my questions. Furthermore, I am thoroughly impressed by the overall professionalism of this law firm and their entire team. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone facing any legal issues, as their expertise is unparalleled.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Gordon engle
Chris is the best in Charlotte in his legal representation. Having worked with hundreds of attorneys over my 30 years in business, he is definitely at the top. Please do not choose counsel without first consulting with him. You cant do better.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Joe
Chris is an excellent attorney, he’s responsive, and he’s proactive. He and his staff not only treated me with respect, they also solved my legal issue. I could not recommend him more highly.
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21 Jul, 2019 by Michele
When our family needed legal help Chris Fialko and Taylor Goodnight of Fialko Law were counselors in the truest sense of the word.. They helped us navigate the legal system with knowledge and experience, kept us up to date on any changes in our case and advised us as to what they felt were the best options for us and these things made them remarkable lawyers. But the fact that they were there for moral and emotional support, more than once, makes then remarkable people. I would recommend them to anyone.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Lindsey burdette
Craig helped our family in so many ways! He went above and beyond to respond to text and phone calls. He was spot on with guidance and when he didn’t know the answer he found it and reported back in a timely manner. He was personable, respectful, and always allowed us to lead the way with prompting questions or topics that we didn’t even consider when fighting a battle that needed legal attention. 10/10 would recommend their firm!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Nick nutter
I have know Craig Morgan since he was a sophomore in High School. His character and hard work is second to none. A lawyers' traits are usually wisdom, knowledge, and "out of the box" thinking. He has A+'s in all the aforementioned traits. What separates him from the herd is his integrity and character. The man has always been there for me and goes way out of his way to help me in anyway he can! I wish I had the leadership skills and work ethic he has. At the end of the day......if he says he will do something...you can count on it 100%!
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15 Feb, 2024 by Coach pennington
Great customer service! Craig and Nathan have helped us immensely with our Franchise. Very knowledgeable and extremely friendly. I would recommend them to anyone!
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29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Tim to achieve dismissal of a possession of a weapon on city property misdemeanor. Communication was clear and quick, and the case ended in a dismissal. I would highly recommend Tim for any sort of criminal defense.
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11 May, 2017 by Tom
I called Tim on a recommendation from another client and I’m very glad that I did. Tim handled everything personally and left no doubt in my mind that I was in good hands. Tim is an excellent communicator and he saved me a lot of time and stress in handling my situation. I highly recommend him.
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18 Sep, 2015 by Joel
My name is Joel, I am 37 years old, and the last 5-6 years of my life have been plagued with addiction. Every aspect of my life has been affected, especially legal issues. Tim has helped me along this long journey. I have had experience with other lawyers, he has to be in the top 99%. Not only is he an extremely qualified lawyer, he is a great person. Tim would make sure I was doing the right things, even if there was no monetary benefit to him. Virtuous and Selfless. His fees are extremely fair. Without him, getting control of my life would have been very overwhelming.
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12 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Carla explained everything clearly and concisely from the second I called her until my case was closed! She helped me get the best possible outcome in court. Carla was extremely helpful and really made me feel like I wasn’t just another client.
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06 Feb, 2019 by Michael
Carla is an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who defended me after receiving a speeding citation. She's trustworthy, intelligent, professional and extremely thorough.
Carla provided clear detailed explanations of the process, options, and potential outcomes. She guided me through the legal system and helped me determine what the best course of action was for my specific case.
Carla was easily reachable throughout the whole process and answered any questions that I had. Her involvement in my case displayed her commitment to me and proved that I wasn't simply another number at a large law firm.
Carla was able to provide me with the best possible outcome and for that, I'm very thankful. Her experience and knowledge of the legal system was a huge benefit to me.
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17 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I retained Carla to represent me on a DWI. I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. She walked me through the whole process and made it as easy as possible. She also helped get me a temporary driving permit while my case was pending. I recommend her and her partner Mike to anyone looking for great representation on a criminal case.
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25 May, 2023 by Joel
I hired Kate to represent me in a divorce/custody case, and she was a consummate professional throughout the entire process. My case had some complexities as it began in a different state, but Kate was knowledgeable and provided valuable counsel during the entire process, which included multiple rounds of negotiations, significant document requests/exchanges, a mediation, and ultimately a settlement. She was willing to fight for the outcomes I desired but also used her experience to advise on other possible outcomes or scenarios to ensure we were prepared no matter what happened. Kate is an amazing attorney and a wonderful advocate for her clients, and I highly recommend her to others navigating similar situations!
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01 May, 2022 by Kevin
Kate assisted with a serious legal issue in a expedient matter. She was professional, and courteous. I knew and truly felt she had my best interest at heart. It can be stressful to work with attorney’s and she made the process simple and straight forward. I would highly recommend Kate to anyone who needs legal help in the future
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20 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
There are truly not enough words to describe how great Kate Kovats was in my time of need. I'm so grateful I found and retained her! Somehow she made sensibility and resolve blossom from a painful situation and devastating circumstances. Kate did an amazing job educating, and counseling me every step along the way. She was understanding, patient, kind, and often funny (which helped immensely). Most importantly she fought for the best interests of my family. I always felt like a priority and not just another case. I was treated as if I was her only client. Whenever I called or emailed she was always there with the best advice and action plan to execute. Kate's attention you detail and due diligence always kept us ahead in our litigation. I never felt as if there was a time when she was off guard or had to get ready. She stayed ready, and we were always ten steps ahead. Kate has an incredible ability to create an action plan and execute it to perfection. She handled my custody matter with delicacy, precision, and an iron fist. During our consultation I advised her of the character of the person we'd be going up against, and told her I needed a "pit bull." Man did she deliver! I am 100% satisfied with her hard work and the outcome of my case. I absolutely hate that I had to go through any of this and wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. What I do know is that for the storm I endured and made it through... I'm glad Kate Kovats was on my side! You will not be disappointed!!!
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14 Aug, 2019 by Beth
Taylor Goodnight represented my family member as a criminal defense attorney. At all times Ms. Goodnight was forthcoming and candid regarding the many proceedings that occurred. Ms. Goodnight also provided accurate & understandable interpretations of the law and its relevance to our case. I respect and highly recommend the expertise of Attorney Taylor Goodnight and will always be appreciative of her representation.
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25 Jul, 2019 by Lee
Taylor was great, she worked on my case non-stop, until she got the results we were looking for. I reckaman Taylor Goodnight to everyone.. Great Lawyer..
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12 Mar, 2019 by Shaw
Taylor was amazing is there for you throughout the day asking questions and very involved makes sure you know every little thing down to the last detail and will fight for your justice.
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28 Feb, 2014 by Jon
I couldn't be happier with the result Bree from Arnold & Smith obtained in my family law case. Before retaining the firm, I was with another attorney who closed up shop with virtually no notice. From the moment I stepped foot into Arnold & Smith's offices, I was treated with respect and told what our likely outcome was and what the best strategy would be. I was kept up to date regularly and was kept in the loop on all communications. Best of all, when it came down to crunch time, our main objective was achieved. I couldn't recommend the firm, and in particular Bree, more highly.
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07 Feb, 2014 by Jason
Bree not only handled a lot of the behind the scenes grind on my custody case, but also took the lead on another important issue for me. She was always very responsive to my emails, called me even after-hours to discuss my case, was on-time to court, and her court room presence was awesome. She made my case look almost too easy, even though I know it was a complicated issue. I walked out of court with what I needed, and it was a great experience.
She was also instrumental in resolving my custody issue, handled really tough negotiations, and brought the case to a great conclusion along with her colleague Matt Arnold. She may not tell you what you want to hear, but she will tell you the truth, and that is very important in these types of cases. She is clearly experienced, and that experience equaled a more precise attorney, which in turn reduced costs. I know this is something on everyone's mind that has to get an attorney.
I have no doubt that anyone that works with Bree will know immediately they got the right person for the job. All you have to do is *follow her instructions*, give her the facts, and do your part, and I believe Bree will get the best possible results for your situation.
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20 Sep, 2013 by Ben
Ms. Laughrun did an excellent job representing me in a family law matter. She was very knowledgeable of the law and, perhaps more importantly, responsive to my questions and concerns in a timely and empathetic manner. Ms. Laughrun helped me achieve every objective I identified at the outset of my case.
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03 Mar, 2020 by Bill
Will worked tirelessly on a personal injury case for me for 2 years. He helped me understand the process from the beginning and gave me encouragement.
From the deposition to the final outcome, he was most professional and I would highly recommend him.
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07 Jul, 2016 by Michael
Will helped us with a lemon law issue that we tried to get resolved for months on our on. After we had no results we hired Will to step in with us. Immediately we could see the results with him as part of our team. Handled the case with a level of experience second to none. At the end of the day the case was resolved and I didn't lose a dime
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20 Sep, 2013 by Geoffrey
I worked with, and retained William Devore IV for a legal mess that I was in. I feel that his representation and consultation throughout the process exceeded my expecations. He helped streamline 2 different issues that I was having, whereupon one dealt with renters and the other my property management company. William is knowlegable, articulate and most importantly assertive with his handle on the law. He guided me along the right path and even went above the billable retainer to get my desired outcome. Hopefully, I won't need his services in the future, but if I am in a legal bind, I would have no thoughts about a different counsel.
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08 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I met with Michael for a consultation. He was honest, straight forward and not running to court just for the sake of billing. Highly recommend.
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16 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Michael for child custody and child support. Michael is very knowledgeable and honest with his work. Michael got me everything plus more concerning my daughters needs. I felt very confident in court with Michael by my side. I couldn't be anymore pleased with his work and help. I will definitely recommend Michael Knox.
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06 May, 2014 by Anonymous
Mike Knox is very educated in his area of practice. He handled my ticket in a very timely matter. I would recommend Mike to any of my friends in Cabarrus and Rowan County. He is very professional and personable.
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17 Mar, 2020 by Antonio
Hired to represent me in a civil law suit and he did an outstanding representation. Very knowledgeable and knows how to apply the law for your defense .
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13 Mar, 2020 by Joel
I hired Mr. Cordero to formulate a rebuttal letter to a false memorandum I was issued at work. He interviewed me for 15 minutes and asked me to send him any written documentation that I might have concerning the situation. To my surprise his response was quick and the letter was extremely effective. The letter gave me the comfort I needed to breath at work, and do my job without feeling mistreated. I highly recommend Mr. Cordero .
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12 Mar, 2020 by Isaiah
I recently started my company and contacted Mr. Cordero to help with the legal aspect of my business. He has helped tremendously with contract negotiations and has gone above and beyond by making himself available for counsel. He is professional and trustworthy and I will definitely recommend his services to others.
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23 Aug, 2021 by Colleen
We had a situation where we needed an attorney quickly and he responded. He has been upfront and honest the entire time. Very knowledgeable with criminal law. I would highly recommend him.
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12 Jan, 2018 by Valerie
Mr. Setzer has gone above and beyond to assist our family. He made sure to be strategic about choices and gave sound legal advice. He knew when to take action and when to ask for continuance. He took my calls and visited my son on campus when he was sent off to a boarding school. I would recommend Mr. Setzer for his knowledge of the law.
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13 Sep, 2012 by Aaron
I've been using Mr. Setzer for over a year now and I recommend him to everyone I know. He's the first lawyer I've ever had represent me that I could tell actually cared about my situation. He's gone above and beyond in every instance and I could not be more grateful. Highly recommended.
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02 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Hart has worked with me for over a year on an EEOC filing. We received notification a few weeks ago that it was filed and accepted and I truly thank her! She has been an amazing attorney, with so much patience, and knowledge. I am certain with her expertise and her caring nature we will succeed with my case!
I could not have asked for a better attorney! Thank you Attorney Hart!
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01 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I had an issue with the leasing company I currently rent my business building from which would negatively affect one of my consulting businesses clients. So I hired Anderson & Hart Law to represent me and my client's interest in the location. They were able to get the issue resolved within two weeks. I would definitely recommend Anderson & Hart Law. They are awesome!! Thanks again.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Chassidy hampton
After receiving a ticket (that I did not agree with) while visiting family in North Carolina I sought out to find the best lawyer I could while also paying a reasonable price. I then came across Anderson and Hart Law. I contacted Christine who was very honest and straight forward but mentioned that she would help me fight this case no matter what. In the end she was able to get my ticket dismissed and save me from receiving points on my license.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I had just moved from Florida and needed a lawyer. I had a traffic ticket and needed an attorney. I by chance googled attorneys in Charlotte and gave him a call. I’m so glad I did! This is a great man and lawyer. Treated my case as if it was first priority! Thank you Mr. Smith for such great care of my case!
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12 Sep, 2013 by Sam
Tim seemed to be genuinely concerned about my situation and my desire to fulfill my obligations, even though things haven't gone as planned lately. He really helped me understand what my options were - and he did it in a way that made me feel that he was going to bat for me. I am so thankful, and I'd recommend Tim to anyone who needs a helping hand.
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11 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Smith is highly unusual as an attorney. He could best be described as "old School". He is very kind and forms a personal relationship with his clients. He truly cares about the person as well as their case. He is a former judge and knows the inside scoop in Mecklenburg County Courts. He discussed with me all my options. Mr. Smith was able to handle my legal problem with results that exceeded my expectations.
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21 Oct, 2013 by Casandra
I hired Mr. Roy Wiggins for a few charges in a complex situation. He has gone above and beyond to ensure I was prepared for my case. He was very informative of the simple procedures of gathering a few documents to finish my case. Mr. Wiggens is very professional, charismatic and tentative to my needs. As I end my conversations with him I feel reassured with a smile on my face. Thank Attourney Roy Wiggens!
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20 May, 2013 by Anonymous
One of the best lawyers I or my family has ever come across, and that is saying something! He has handled many different Lawyer required cases for me, From Speeding tickets, Misdemeanor(Dropped to a misdemeanor and minimal consequence), and handling my Lawsuit against an insurance company for an severe injury I received from one of their insured driver (He got approximately ten times what I expected from my wildest dreams(But I am a down to earth person, I was not expecting 1,000,000 dollars or anything as abstract as that.))
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26 May, 2017 by Willard kollinson
Josh is a native Charlotte man who knows the area and people well. He understood my case well and helped me even though I was not the most rich or fancy client. Josh knows people and it makes him a good lawyer. He is honest, and I do not get a feel like he is trying to make money, but help me. His office is a little outdated and he is old fashioned (uses a fax machine) but he is more experienced and knows the law better than many recent graduates at big firm. I recommend him to anyone in need of a down to earth criminal attorney.
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07 Aug, 2013 by Jeannette
Mr. Kirkley handled my personal injury case. He was very professional and got me results that were beyond my expectations. The entire staff is polite and courteous. They were quick to return my calls and answer all my questions. I would highly recommend Kirkley & Stanley Law Offices to anyone who has an accident. I have referred friends and family to their firm for accidents and traffic related matters.
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24 Apr, 2020 by Bobby
I was facing a speeding ticket that had the potential to take away my license. Attorney Davis-Woods took the time to listen to my concerns and got to work on my case immediately. She told me what strategy she was going to use and she was able to get my ticket dismissed. It was such a relief! I highly recommend this attorney for her compassion and professionalism!
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23 Apr, 2020 by Samuel
Attorney Davis is professional and well informed. She let's you know what to expect, what to be prepared for and gives you honest straight forward answers. When it is your money, your time, your family, your rights you want someone who cares and makes you a priority. Attorney Davis checks all the boxes.
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03 Jan, 2017 by Zayd
I would not consider hiring a lawyer besides Mr. Winiker. I spent nine and a half years in the Feds, the last six of which I was held indefinitely - without a release date. Over the years, several lawyers jumped on and off of my case. All of them were more well-known, far more expensive than Mr. Winiker, and they accomplished nothing. Mr. Winiker handled myself (I'm not easy to work with), my family, the court, and the prosecution with the utmost professionalism, attention, and competence at every step. Most importantly, he accomplished what many would have thought impossible. Mr. Winiker had me free in very little time. I spent nearly a decade reading cases in prison. I am doubtful that another lawyer like Mr. Winiker can still be found in the federal system, at any price. It is unlikely that my co-defendant and I would have spent a day in prison if we had known Mr. Winiker from the start. I wholeheartedly recommend him and authorize him to give you my contact info if you would like more details about my case or his representation.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Akysia Resper is a great attorney. Akysia is very knowledgeable, hard working, and dedicated in providing good service.
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02 Sep, 2010 by Eric
I have been a client of Dale Morrison for over 5 years. He has consistently provided sound legal counsel based on decades of experience practicing law. His integrity is unmatched. Dale and his team are very personable and are genuinely concerned about my interests.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Lateese
Mr. Davis was efficient, great customer service and very professional. I had three speeding tickets all at once, he answered all of my calls and told me exactly what I needed to do.
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11 Jul, 2014 by Chris
Missy represented me in a white collar federal case. She made me feel very comfortable from the beginning and made sure that this conviction had "as little impact as on your life as possible," in her words. Whenever I called to speak with her, she would speak with me immediately and inform me of what was going on, and if she wasn't in the office then she would come to the jail personally to see me. In the event that she just could not make it, another attorney from the firm would come see me. She carefully reviewed my case with the intention of taking it to trial even though I knew that would not ultimately happen. With the exception of hardened criminals, being persecuted by the federal government is a very stressful situation, and it is important that you find an attorney that truly care about your case and about what happens to you. Professional, caring, attentive, intelligent and thorough, Missy Owen is all of these things.
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18 Jan, 2018 by Michael
She did everything I expected and then some very professional and honest we need more attorneys like her who takes her job seriously and to do it right
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29 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Gretchen Scavo represents excellence, dedication, trust and intelligence in their truest forms. She comes highly recommended.
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30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
My husband and I are so grateful for Mrs. Ibsen's services! We hired her to handle our case and she did a wonderful job! She was efficient and helped us through each step of the legal process. Having not gone through a legal case previously, it was a comfort and a relief to know that we had someone on our side we could trust. I would absolutely recommend her services!
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19 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Michael Schehr and I must say, his expertise and professionalism are unmatched. From our first consultation, he was thorough, attentive, and made me feel at ease with the legal process. His knowledge of the law is impressive and he was able to explain complex legal jargon in a way that was easy to understand. He was always available to answer my questions and kept me informed every step of the way. I highly recommend Michael Schehr for anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.
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14 May, 2014 by Robert
Did a great job on plane in me proper representation at an affordable price due to the fact that he Didn't work in that particular County. would recommend him to a friend.
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01 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. May did a great job for me, I couldn't be more pleased. I will highly recommend him to anyone I know going through the unfortunate aftermath of a car accident.
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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.
