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06 Sep, 2024 by Aj yuka
Yolanda M. Trotman is someone you want at your side when things are tough and uncertain. I was pleased with the service I was given. The main office is professional and very friendly. If they don't pick up the phone do not freak out. Give it some time and call or shoot a email they are working hard for many people.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Mandy deese
Thankfully Yolanda took my nasty dog custody case that was making my life hell when other firms didn’t know where to start. Even working in legal myself I needed assistance. She was professional in court and had the respect of others. She did what I hoped she would do, rip my lying ex to pieces in cross examination. The results were favorable to me. She is an experienced attorney and I’m thankful she took my case! Thank you, Yolanda. ❤️
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08 Jun, 2024 by Dear jania
Yolanda is a excellent attorney. I trust her completely and her services are professional and reliable. Highly recommend to hire for any legal issue. You want a attorney who cares and is dependable.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Aj yuka
Yolanda M. Trotman is someone you want at your side when things are tough and uncertain. I was pleased with the service I was given. The main office is professional and very friendly. If they don't pick up the phone do not freak out. Give it some time and call or shoot a email they are working hard for many people.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Mandy deese
Thankfully Yolanda took my nasty dog custody case that was making my life hell when other firms didn’t know where to start. Even working in legal myself I needed assistance. She was professional in court and had the respect of others. She did what I hoped she would do, rip my lying ex to pieces in cross examination. The results were favorable to me. She is an experienced attorney and I’m thankful she took my case! Thank you, Yolanda. ❤️
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08 Jun, 2024 by Dear jania
Yolanda is a excellent attorney. I trust her completely and her services are professional and reliable. Highly recommend to hire for any legal issue. You want a attorney who cares and is dependable.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Aj yuka
Yolanda M. Trotman is someone you want at your side when things are tough and uncertain. I was pleased with the service I was given. The main office is professional and very friendly. If they don't pick up the phone do not freak out. Give it some time and call or shoot a email they are working hard for many people.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Mandy deese
Thankfully Yolanda took my nasty dog custody case that was making my life hell when other firms didn’t know where to start. Even working in legal myself I needed assistance. She was professional in court and had the respect of others. She did what I hoped she would do, rip my lying ex to pieces in cross examination. The results were favorable to me. She is an experienced attorney and I’m thankful she took my case! Thank you, Yolanda. ❤️
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08 Jun, 2024 by Dear jania
Yolanda is a excellent attorney. I trust her completely and her services are professional and reliable. Highly recommend to hire for any legal issue. You want a attorney who cares and is dependable.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Aj yuka
Yolanda M. Trotman is someone you want at your side when things are tough and uncertain. I was pleased with the service I was given. The main office is professional and very friendly. If they don't pick up the phone do not freak out. Give it some time and call or shoot a email they are working hard for many people.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Mandy deese
Thankfully Yolanda took my nasty dog custody case that was making my life hell when other firms didn’t know where to start. Even working in legal myself I needed assistance. She was professional in court and had the respect of others. She did what I hoped she would do, rip my lying ex to pieces in cross examination. The results were favorable to me. She is an experienced attorney and I’m thankful she took my case! Thank you, Yolanda. ❤️
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08 Jun, 2024 by Dear jania
Yolanda is a excellent attorney. I trust her completely and her services are professional and reliable. Highly recommend to hire for any legal issue. You want a attorney who cares and is dependable.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Aj yuka
Yolanda M. Trotman is someone you want at your side when things are tough and uncertain. I was pleased with the service I was given. The main office is professional and very friendly. If they don't pick up the phone do not freak out. Give it some time and call or shoot a email they are working hard for many people.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Rahshawn
I had a very disappointing experience with Kimberly Saxton as my attorney. Unfortunately, I found her services to be unprofessional and lacking in transparency. After taking my money, she repeatedly delayed the process and added unexpected fees without clear justification. In the end, she decided not to represent me, leaving me in a difficult position.
Communication was also an issue—important documentation was not provided, and I often found her demeanor to be rude and disrespectful. Overall, the service I received was far below my expectations. I would strongly recommend reconsidering if you're thinking of hiring Kimberly as your attorney.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Mandy deese
Thankfully Yolanda took my nasty dog custody case that was making my life hell when other firms didn’t know where to start. Even working in legal myself I needed assistance. She was professional in court and had the respect of others. She did what I hoped she would do, rip my lying ex to pieces in cross examination. The results were favorable to me. She is an experienced attorney and I’m thankful she took my case! Thank you, Yolanda. ❤️
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26 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired me.porter to represent me in criminal matters. Bad experience. His rates are outrageous. And he definitely is a waste of time and money poor communication. He didn’t do anything for me in court but prolong my matters before eventually withdrawing from my case after coercing me into signing a document stating that he doesn’t do any refunds taking my 10,000.
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11 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Porter is a consummate attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable and brilliant in legal matters. He is passionate about the law and he is passionate about justice. Some folks wake up and go to work. Attorney Porter wakes up and goes to life. I highly recommend him if you are dealing with a legal matter and need an attorney you can trust. I recommend him highly.
A Satisfied Client
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10 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
This lawyer gave my life a second chance..I never knew he get u out of jail.insteadof a bondsman.
Then if u don't know law.. cause it's xtra complicated speak *English*. just trust and believe..if he get trouble out ...
Thanks Porter
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03 Aug, 2023 by Daniel womack
Recently called very helpful. Shared information about local issues and about a threat made against me. Referred me to another agency to do a follow-up.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Alexandra “lola” valentin
22 Apr, 2019 by Omari brown
03 Aug, 2023 by Daniel womack
Recently called very helpful. Shared information about local issues and about a threat made against me. Referred me to another agency to do a follow-up.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Alexandra “lola” valentin
22 Apr, 2019 by Omari brown
07 May, 2024 by Laniece blackmon
The rudest, most condescending experience I’ve ever encountered in my life. I have no words. I am taking my services elsewhere, and would recommend you to do the same.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Mel davies
19 May, 2023 by Rob walls
Not sure how all the other reviews are so good. It has taken hom almost a year to do a QDRO and he is still not done. Mistake after mistake.
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21 Feb, 2018 by Raymond
When I first met Mr. Mckeny I knew right away he was straight to the point and extremely nice. I knew that he was who I needed considering the circumstances. He filed for Emergency Custody of my daughter and it was granted. Within a little over a week we were in court and he was excellent. He talked circles around my ex and she didn’t know what to do or say. He helped us come to an agreement and I was granted custody of my daughter because her mother didn’t want to go too court considering everything that was going on.
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12 Jan, 2018 by James s
Trippe,took the time to show me all my options,and was rery fair on price.he is my lawyer for life .if you want a one on one lawyer that works for you at a great price,this is the guy
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04 Jul, 2017 by Chuck
I have had the pleasure of finding and then knowing Trippe McKeny for a good number of years now! Not only has he been able to help me with my own personal matter, but also many other family members and friends too.. His carrring knowledge and support for his clients' cases and my familes' has made legal issues a more barible. The personal attention by Trippe McKeny gives his clients the strength and courage to stand up and fight for what is right. Personlly, Trippe had helped supporting and advicing myself on the matter of on going all out battle involving my daughter and an unwilling EX...(im sure you have heard the stories of how fun that can be). , .but his assurance of what is right ...always helped me to fight harder. Trippe has been there for the smaller things too....i.e. business, family and a traffic violation. As I had mentioned...he has worked with a good number of my family members and friends. For many years he has supported his community, his clients needs, his duties as an honerable attorney, his family and must important his LOVE for our almighty GOD!
"Thank You Mr. William Trippe McKeny Esquire....keep touching lifes the way you do!"
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04 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Trobich failed to show up for numerous court dates; misled us and lied about doing so; ultimately completely dropped the ball in our case. Finally settled out of court for his wrongdoing. He got off way too easily.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Julmar
This man fought for me! Had felony charges that I didn't do and DA wanted me to take a plea. Trobich said he had my back, and he did. We took it to trial and the jury came back "not guilty" on everything. He took the DAs witnesses apart on the stand.
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03 Feb, 2015 by Tanner
I have no idea how Robert Trobich is "just" a public defender. He should be working for a top firm in North Carolina. I had a troubled past when i was younger. I was arrested at age 16 for possession of stolen goods, misdemeanor. Arrested at age 17 for Felony and misdeameanor charges. Arrested at age 18 for carrying a concealed weapon, and unlawful concealment, both misdeameanors. I am currently 21 years old and do not have ANYTHING on my record. I was found not guilty, received a deferred judication and dismals for every charge brought against me. If i was given just any lawyer I'm sure i would of spent time in jail for the charges i was accused of. Robert Trobich took the time to listen to all the facts in the case, not just the evidence prosecutors brought forth. He fought for my cases and in turn i am living a life free of my past. Nothing is on my record, if you google my name all of my mugshots are erased from the internet. I cannot stress how much of an amazing lawyer and man he is. I would trust him with any ANY legal issues i would have in the future or strongly suggest him to others.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Liz was hired for a few thousand dollars for a child custody and contempt case. It's been almost a year and still have not been to court or one document filed. Took weeks and weeks of calling and emailing in order to get the 1st draft of the documents that were filled with errors. Took a couple weeks after that to get the "final" documents. This should have already been filed and went to court. She didn't have a problem taking the money fast but ever since she has been paid, it's a struggle to get her to do anything she is supposed to do. What other option does one have after you've paid her all that money? Can't even go hire another attorney and this is my one shot because how can I come up with that kind of money again? After reading all the other reviews (and the good reviews seem like they are "bought" or done by associates of hers), she should not be allowed to practice law. Get your life together and do what you're paid to do.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Was patient in hearing my parental agreement needs. Showed up and delivered. I highly recommend.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Going through a custody battle has to be one of the hardest things a parent could go through. Although, Liz did file my paperwork I expressed numerous times I wasn’t comfortable with signing the custody agreement. I just wasn’t confident my needs were being addressed. After stating this the response was what else do you want me to do, this is a good agreement, this is reasonable and I feel he’s being fair. To work with a lawyer you want to feel they’re on your side just not collecting a check. I was often asked for last min conversation around 5pm and if I didn’t respond quickly I was told it’s late can we discuss this tomorrow. A very unpleasant way to end a Friday or any day when your going through a court case and unprofessional. I wish I stood up for myself more because I honestly feel my lawyer was more friendly and respectful of the other party than me. The paperwork was signed and they were phone numbers that should have been provided or emails. Medical was listed in my agreement but Liz did not go over this info or provide information on what the other parent was responsible to pay. These things should’ve been clear and mapped out.
Long story short after the paperwork was signed the other parent did his part as far as visitation goes but nothing else was followed. This left me going back and fourth with his lawyer asking what should be paid and of course his lawyer could care less about him following his part because why would she. She’s not my lawyer. I was unsatisfied with everything and when I reached out to Liz. I was told I fought for you what else did you want me to do? I clearly stated everything that made me nervous to sign the agreement is what I’m experiencing now. The other parent signed the agreement but only follows areas they want to. I explained a follow up conversation on what to expect next would be nice or if the order isn’t followed how should I move forward. I also asked what if I wanted to use you as my lawyer again? Needless to say she never responded.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Mark leon
This attorney is not worth his pay and his phones inbox is constantly full and cannot accept messages. Ever. I would give him 0 stars.
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05 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
There are so many great things to say about David Hitchens. He is loyal, educated, compassionate and will do his absolute best to help navigate you through your case. He won a highly contested custody case for my family. I would recommend him to anyone with family law concerns. A++++
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27 Feb, 2014 by Joseph
Mr. Hitchens represented me in a YFS court subdivision. He is by far one of the best attorneys that I have ever had represent me. He always looked out for my interests and when I had an issue, he was quick to handle it. He even helped me handle a criminal court issue when he wasn't even hired to represent me. I would recommend him to anybody in need of excellent legal representation. Thank you Mr. Hitchens.
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07 Sep, 2016 by Jessica
He is a wealth of knowledge (never did he have to research a question I asked which attorney could bill extra time to do), genuine ( called to check up on how things were going even after the case was over) , and a beast in the court room but, comes off as kind to get the info from opposing party to help with your case. I’ve used him two times now 2007 and 2014 can say will ONLY use this lawyer with these civil cases . He just gets better and better with time. The only way the bill will be run up is if you call to complain about your case all the time ( that what a shrink is for talk to them about your issues)He is very up front on honest with what he expects the outcome of the case and in my experiences, he was always on point (prepare for the worse hope for the best type of thing). He does not play when he tells you to do something or stop ( will not tolerate it neither)and one should follow his advice to have the best possible outcome. Staff is extremely knowledgeable and does have a quick response. Highly recommend him to anyone!!
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10 Oct, 2014 by Kim
Mr. Porterfield guided me though my divorce with honesty & professionalism. He & his staff were very knowledgeable & answered any questions I had on a timely basis. Though going through a divorce can be overwhelming at times, Mr. Porterfield always set my mind at ease. I would recommend him to anyone going through a divorce.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Scott
Nickle and Dime you into the ground and I felt he did marginal. Will tell you anything and use scare tactics to keep you feeding him money. All he cared about was the money.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Spring williams
Our experience with Mr. Harding was informative, but it’s a conversation we could have had over the phone. When I initially called in and explained my husband’s accident I was told by the secretary she spoke to Mr. Harding and he said he would take the case. My husband is wheelchair bound since the accident and we live 3 flights up. So getting him out and in the car to drive to an office that was not wheelchair accessible nor the building just to be told the NC laws and why he can’t take the case was a waist of our time. Once he told us he wouldn’t take our case he rushed to get us out even picked up a phone call while we still had questions as if our time was up. He never lifted his head up to even acknowledge me or my question. We understand because you we were not a win and no money would be won because of the laws here in NC were nothing to you. It was waisted time to sit and fill out paperwork and have to relive the whole nightmare all over again to be told you couldn’t help us. The police report was not even accurate and his secretary pointed out several discrepancies but he never looked at it. This has been a true nightmare and I pray no one has to go through what we have. Sorry we moved to NC
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12 Apr, 2024 by Jannice
PHONE CALLS ARE "SCREENED" SO YOU WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO ACTUALLY TALK TO HIM. WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS???
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20 Jul, 2022 by Marcus
Our loved one was in a horrible car accident this year and suffered alot of injuries. Mr. Harding has communicated on what's going on. Highly recommended
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24 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Had a few brief run ins with this guy in a civil case. He takes lies and runs with them. Very unprofessional. Sounds like a pure idiot in court. He’s loud and obnoxious.
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01 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This attorney was recommended by a friend in my divorce and found him to be arrogant, unprofessional, and lazy. He was paid in a lump sum 10k and I did not realize attorneys do not do that in civil cases until I had to find another attorney who advised that it was unprofessional on his part. Once Hamm got his lump sum, he was difficult to contact and more unprofessional in dealing with. He tried to charge me for my file which according to another attorney was illegal. Hamm wanted to do the bear minimum in my case and when he did not get what he wanted immediately wanted to withdraw as counsel as he got his money....horrible experience n wouldn't recommend to my now ex-wife.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Greg
Unfortunately I have made some bad choices but Ed has been there for me through every turn. What other Attorney can you phone and he answers the call? He is honest and will take an impossible situation and make it work on your behalf. I cannot say how much makes me feel at ease when I should be up in arms. If you want the best use Ed!
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01 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Worked with Richard Kronk for an extended amount of time in which he was a Parent Coordinator and mediated custody issues. When he first got involved in our case he was reasonable, timely, and his decisions made since a majority of the time. This changed in 2021, he became non-responsive, ignored the obvious, stuck with decisions that had proven over and over to not be effective. When issues reached a new level of severity, he actually contributed to them getting much worse rather than achieving any reasonable results. I asked him several times to remove himself from the case, which he refused. I had to file a motion with the court and he was removed by a judge. In my opinion this man should have no part in practicing family law in any capacity. If you have a family law matter go elsewhere.
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06 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Non responsive and wildly expensive. He confused my case with another while in court and the judge had to correct him. Needless to say, the outcome was not at all what I had hoped. Through this process, I would reach out to Kronk numerous times and had severe delays in response if any at all. I though, ‘he’s a partner at this firm, I’m sure he’s got this in the bag. Maybe he doesn’t need to resplnd.’ Boy, how wrong I was!
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06 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Initially Richard seemed responsive and showed compassion and interest in my case. Unfortunately, after some time he showed less and less interest and became unresponsive to calls and emails. I was left in the dark, not aware of past or current developments in my case in a timely manner. Agreements to file documents and to get things done were not happening, even after several reminders.
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17 Dec, 2010 by Belvis
I retained Mr.Butler's law firm for my husband's immigration case 6 months ago. I sincerely regret doing so as I'm never informed about the case. I have to call a thousand times to get through and only to hear that the assistant is busy and to leave a voice mail. I have left several voice mails, and my calls are never returned. When my call does get through, the assistant says that she does not know what is going on with the case that she needs to ask the attorney, but the attorney is not there, etc. An excuse is always made up for the lack of knowledge of my husband's case. I paid this firm a ton of money and they have not resolved the issue. When there are court appearances, the attorney does not show up, only to find out after hours of waiting in the court room, that the hearing was postponed and I was never informed. I cannot take my husband's case somewhere else as this firm has all of the documents, and I can never get a hold of the attorneys or the paralegal, yet I always get their letters about the balance that needs to be paid.
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28 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Butler for a case of mine recently. It has been a nightmare. He is rude, offensive, does not respond at all, definitely did not keep me informed as I retained him over 3 months ago and just met him for the first time today. I could go on and on. He gives out false information and promises, rather his paralegals and firm partner does, then insists that you were "misinformed" and that no such thing was ever said. Don't get me wrong, he is excellent at advertisement and selling his service but that is it. I initially paid him a substantial amount of money and have not seen any progress. Nothing. He did not even show up to a court hearing or inform me that it had been changed. He will not return phone calls, emails etc... One of his paralegals will answer the phone if you call repeatedly for a lengthy amount of time but as I stated they give you false or misleading information. I have now had to retain a different attorney to handle my case and have had to spend an immense amount of money. I have made a demand for the refund of my fees from Mr. Butler and I am reporting him to the North Carolina State Bar. This man does not deserve to hold a law license. Please do not waste your time and money.
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21 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
The lawyer that was actually given to me for my case actually works with or have worked with the opposing parties actually he's actually went to training with one of the staff members that my case is dealing against with he provides very minimum assistance very rude customer service he raises his voice when he speaks to me in a manner that is disrespectful he's expressed to me that he really doesn't care about assisting me with my case in so many ways of his actions and treatments of my case very neglectful not to stand up guy at all
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20 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I did not have a good experience with this attorney, despite my being as gracious as a person can be with another person. I would not recommend due to extremely poor follow-through and an air of entitlement, in my opinion. Was made to feel like I was constantly chasing her down. Made a stressful situation only more stressful and wasted my valuable time. I guess she thinks hers is so much more important.
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14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I had to pay this guy 300.00 to be in court for my driving wreckless (excessive speeding) charge. I still had to pay the 100.00 fine and take the 8 hr. red class. I could have just saved the money I gave to him and it would have been the same outcome.
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29 Jul, 2021 by Yvette
We are being represented by him without him knowing at late notice. He is a public defender. Upon finally getting an appointment with him after 3 1/2 to four months, we sit down with him for him to tell us how to take a plea for a felony on a self-defense charge. Before we got here it was self-defense when we get here now he wants him to take a plea because it's a licensed black man with a gun. Then before we even try to finish reading the paper he gave us, he looks over at me and sits up across the desk like he was going to jump on me telling me how he did not like that I had to call a supervisor at the PD Office to get him to make an appointment with us because we've had two court dates that we did not know about because he is not returning communication. I called the public defenders office to gain communication from him because he said he would call by end of day but again no call. Then the whole meeting was me being eyeballed because he was ready to tell me how he did not like the fact I called the public defenders office. Yet we did not get into his case until 35 minutes into the sit down. How do you spend all that time going over what you did not do Like telling us court dates, calling us back, emailing us back, or even meeting with us for the first time.when you are representing someone that is too childish. Especially when you sit up to a woman like you going to jump on her and rolling your neck and eyes. I do not recommend for representation. This first meet since he became our attorney in March or April. Or whenever it was, it's been so long ago but we just now meeting and it was bad!
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25 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
After hiring Ms. Dowd to handle my case she got the initial paperwork started and then went missing for several weeks. Her phone went immediately to voice mail and she did not respond to messages or emails. In fact I had to reach out to my legal benefits company and it was only then that she emailed me with a short update and no apology. She then went missing again for almost a month before her voice mail turned into a brief message that the contact was unavailable.
After my legal benefits team tried reaching her she eventually emailed an apology that she had been sick and there was a death in the family but she made no effort to update her clients of this fact or provide a legal resource to back her up during this period.
This left me high and dry during a critical time. I was in the middle of an uncontested divorce that turned contested because she was not there to provide the needed answers and actions.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Tanya
Worst lawyer ever. Money hungry for others money. Won’t answer the phone and give you the run around for and about your money. Sad he wants his money but won’t give you your money.
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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.
