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09 Aug, 2016 by Steve
Did a fantastic job for me. I whole-heartedly recommend this lawyer. My son was in jeopardy of losing college funding due to his drug charge. Argued well to dismiss all 3 charges and got a light probation term.
My son learned his lesson but Brian saved his future. Life changing! He didn't have to....but Brian followed up with post court phone calls and texts to make sure he was stating on track. As good as it gets!
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21 Feb, 2017 by Steve
Lorrie was a wonderful. She continually push to get the situation handle as quickly as possible. She would always answer any question we had. I would highly recommend her to anyone who need lawyer that you feel comfort talking too. Trudy and Steve, Thanks you for help!!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Teddy
I needed a lawyer and Lee Davis was highly recommended. I was charged with aggravated assault.
Mr. Davis did his best to keep me calm and informed. With his patience and directions, my case was dismissed and expunged 100%. One of the most disturbing incidents in my live was resolved.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Timothy
Mary Sullivan Moore is an outstanding criminal defense attorney, as well as a remarkable human being. I could not have been happier with the outcome of my case. I don't know how I could ever show her how much I appreciate her. I promise, you will not be disappointed!
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03 Feb, 2018 by Michele mckee
Best lawyer out there.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Karla hernandez
Really good lawyer, will explain the process step by step and his assistant Vanessa is also really good at communicating and getting in touch with you over any updates
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16 Dec, 2024 by Danny agustin perez
Very nice lawyer. I very well recommend.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Giancarlo mosquera
Excelente servicio
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.3
162 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Aaron cody
19 Nov, 2024 by Ryan g
21 Sep, 2024 by Cate j.collins
I have been represented by both Mrs. Conine and Mr. Meeks in separate legal matters, and I am thoroughly impressed by their dedication and professionalism. Both attorneys are highly respected by the local community and the courts, demonstrating considerable experience in their field. They have consistently worked diligently to resolve my cases, providing prompt, professional communication and well-informed advice.
While unfavorable outcomes can occur in any legal proceeding, this should not be a source of undue frustration. This firm consistently puts forth substantial effort on my behalf, offering sound counsel and demonstrating a genuine belief in and commitment to their clients. I am reassured knowing that they always act with my best interests in mind.
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05 Oct, 2015 by Joules
David was very helpful in my divorce. Although he could not represent me in a civil court while he was still active duty, he was very instrumental in providing direction and materials to assist in an amicable resolution.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Christiane
I became a client of Mr. Coates because I needed help with my divorce case, which was quite complicated and difficult, because I am from an foreign country and was married to an US citizen.
Even though there was a time difference of 7 hours, Mr. Coates always stayed in contact with me via Email or phone to keep me updated on the process.
If I had questions or concerns he always took the time to listen to them and came up pretty fast with solutions.
I am very happy that he handled my case. He is professional, caring, takes his job very seriously and I highly recommend him.
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01 Jun, 2015 by Amanda
I couldn't think of a better way to pass on my gratitude for the amazing job Mr. Coates did for me with my divorce and custody hearings. If you are a customer looking for an attorney that is going to see you through every single step and process of any legal situation you really don't need to look any further. I have hired attorneys before from Tennessee and Georgia and all at great cost and none of them had done, even remotely close, to as well of a job as Mr. Coates did for myself and my family. Those previous attorney's weren't cheap either and pretty sought after in the area.
One of the things that I liked about this firm is that he and his staff treated me like I was as important to them as if I were one of their own family members. I ask a lot of questions and dont hesitate to call and I got either immediate answers or responses back from mainly Mr. Coates personally or his assistant. This was reassuring that he is always taking time out of his schedule to not only keep no stone unturned in my case but also to keep my mind at ease. Going through a divorce can be very scary and heartbreaking, especially with children involved, yet this was drastically different in so many ways possible from previous experiences I have had with other attorneys, that I still can't thank Mr. Coates enough. If you are looking for an attorney, please, hire this man. He is not like many of the others who give attorney's such a bad rap. He is straightforward but kind and very trustworthy. Everything he told me he would get done or accomplish for me he did. I will never use another attorney again. I did not know what to expect going in and had a lot on my mind as it was, but instead of just feeling like I was "guided" through the process with, "the best hopes", I actually came to soon realize that if it were at all possible for a person to care as closely as I did about me and my child's future, and provide us with the service as someone could if it were their own family member, it was Mr.Coates. Thank you Law Offices of David Coates!!
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25 Jul, 2019 by Kyle
The Covert Law Group are the most experience lawyers in Family Law and Criminal cases. Sam Byrd and Kevin Hargis work extremely hard for you and did for us. When we felt hopeless about our case, we were always assured they will fight for us and give their best for the best outcome. They did just that and much more. This law firm has such dedicated lawyers. They are highly recommended.
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03 Jul, 2019 by Laura
Kevin exceeded my expectations. He was behind me 100% from day 1 and her fought hard for me. He’s a exceptional attorney and I highly recommend him!
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28 May, 2019 by James
Really went beyond and above my expectations. Excellent outcome and service.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Brandy swafford
Phil truly cares about his clients! I realize he is extremely difficult to touch base with 85% of the time. He is not a hand holder but it's due to his overwhelming daily Client/Court obligations. He takes pride in his work ,meaning he cares and seeks to ensure the BEST absolute outcome for each and every client which goes well beyond just Hamilton County ...When it really counts you will be glad Mr.Duval is by your side.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Amanda harris
He is the best
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07 Jun, 2024 by Herb bushnell
Mr. Duval and Stephanie were so thoughtful and helped steer us in the right direction. I will always remember Mr. Duval helping me over some rough spots, making it possible for me to go on and live a productive normal life. Much respect.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Brandy swafford
Phil truly cares about his clients! I realize he is extremely difficult to touch base with 85% of the time. He is not a hand holder but it's due to his overwhelming daily Client/Court obligations. He takes pride in his work ,meaning he cares and seeks to ensure the BEST absolute outcome for each and every client which goes well beyond just Hamilton County ...When it really counts you will be glad Mr.Duval is by your side.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Amanda harris
He is the best
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07 Jun, 2024 by Herb bushnell
Mr. Duval and Stephanie were so thoughtful and helped steer us in the right direction. I will always remember Mr. Duval helping me over some rough spots, making it possible for me to go on and live a productive normal life. Much respect.
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02 Nov, 2018 by Amy
From start to finish; my experience with Robin was outstanding. Unlike many attorneys, he is very accessible, and does what he can to help ease your stress. This means a great deal when you are already in the midst of a "less than pleasant" situation. He listens, answers your questions, and truly takes his time to be sure you understand what is, and will be, happening. He is honest, sincere, and exceedingly fair; I feel he certainly earned his fee (and then some). He is very knowledgeable, and knows his business well. He represented my daughter in a case that took place in Nashville, TN, and we COULD NOT have asked for a better outcome. I am truly grateful and HIGHLY recommend him. Hopefully, I won't need legal services again - but if I do - I will not call anyone else!
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22 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Thus far my experience has been a very good one. I am hopeful that my case will be resolved within a timely manner and that justice is served.
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27 Aug, 2016 by Brenda
We hired Mr. Thompson on a criminal case where our son was falsely arrested , where a witness lied about the conduct of my son . It seemed to us that Mr..Thompsonwas as outraged about the circumstances as we were and pursued the defense of the case with zeal , we did. It know if he did this for the money or for the fact that he was outraged by the case. When the case against our son was dismissed , we said to each other that he is worth every dollar that we spent to hire him . God bless you Mr. Thompson !
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03 Jun, 2013 by Keith
Mr. Heinsman is a caring and intelligent professional. He helped me far more than I deserved, getting records from a recent false report. I would go back to him without hesitation, and send my closest friends and family.
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14 Sep, 2019 by Doug trant
An excellent lawyer. Smart, hard working and creative.
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06 Nov, 2022 by Rick taber
No matter your legal needs are, call them first. Professionalism at the highest possible level. I would go nowhere else.
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06 Nov, 2022 by Kendon massengale
I highly recommend this attorney group for any service you may need. They were great at keeping me informed at every step of the way and very knowledgeable and professional. They take the time to explain every process and are very prompt at answering questions.
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06 Nov, 2022 by Kathy spencer
My husband and I have used Gerald Tidwell for legal matters for over 20 years. Besides being an excellent trial lawyer, he cares for his clients, will discuss matters in terms we can understand, and will return calls in a timely manner. Just a few of the many reasons he has retained clients for years. I would recommend Tidwell & Associates to anyone in need of solid legal advice and representation.
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17 Feb, 2022 by Randy
Curtis Bowe III, along with his staff provided excellent customer service. They were very efficient and always in touch with me when changes occurred with my case. Mr. Bowe, was very straightforward in & out of the courtroom. His legal knowledge was very impressive when the time came for cross examination during my case. He provides quality service which can be hard to attain in his field. I thank you for a job well done.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Phillip
I’ve used Mr. Bowe multiple times on different issues and I’ve been very pleased with each experience. Curtis is professional but personable and always made me feel like my situation was important. He and his staff set clear expectations, which is always appreciated when navigating legal issues. Thank you, Curtis!
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15 Feb, 2022 by Walter
Curtis has proven himself time and time again to be a great attorney. I have known him for quite a while and have heard great things. Not only that, but my family and I have had the fortune to retain his services personally. Curtis showed genuine concern for our issue and provided options that were well thought out. He not only provided the options, but helped to arrive at an educated decision that proved to be beneficial to the outcome of my family's issue.
It became clear early in the process that Curtis knows his profession and has the level of commitment that we needed to address our concerns and we worked towards an amicable resolution. We made the right choice when we retained his services.
Curtis is the attorney whom I will refer to my friends and family.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Eva ferrell
If i could give 10 stars I would. Attorney Micah was able to help me handle my case in Tennessee although Im in another state. I would advise anyone to hire him and trust he will do what he says he will do. Honest, dependable, and a man of God!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Luiz cas-
He is a very good lawyer dedicated and honest very professional 👏 👍 👌 😀
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03 Oct, 2024 by Anna kurenkova
Worst experience. Lawyer showed up 40 minutes late to courtroom, joked/fist bumped with the cops and prosecutor and did exactly nothing for me. I got to watch defendants for speeding tickets before me get the same options as I did, while he made away with my money. Stay away
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03 Feb, 2025 by Salvador lucas
01 Jul, 2024 by Angeles lara
20 Feb, 2024 by Jeremías pérez
Esta oficina y sus trabajadores en mi personal,recomendable para llevar tu caso
Son pacientes y amables en el momento de tu cita!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Aaron cody
19 Nov, 2024 by Ryan g
21 Sep, 2024 by Cate j.collins
I have been represented by both Mrs. Conine and Mr. Meeks in separate legal matters, and I am thoroughly impressed by their dedication and professionalism. Both attorneys are highly respected by the local community and the courts, demonstrating considerable experience in their field. They have consistently worked diligently to resolve my cases, providing prompt, professional communication and well-informed advice.
While unfavorable outcomes can occur in any legal proceeding, this should not be a source of undue frustration. This firm consistently puts forth substantial effort on my behalf, offering sound counsel and demonstrating a genuine belief in and commitment to their clients. I am reassured knowing that they always act with my best interests in mind.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Gabriel aeshan
Charlotte is a very talented, professional, and intelligent lawyer. You can trust that she will serve the best interest of your children and family. She is caring and results oriented.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Lisa bumpass
I hired this law firm to represent a family matter for a extended family member,(In hopes we both would benefit something positive for all of us). I sought to seek help for her because she has been living in her past life and seems to be stuck. For the past two years, I have been supporting the minor child over 98% of the time. The mother has been all over the place including sleeping in her car. I thought enough to help her get a room for one week. I even helped her find employment. I started feeding her. She started acting as if she was grateful. Well. things changed after we went to seek help from this law firm. We went into the consultation and both spoke for the same reason and cause. Quite towards the end of the consultation, I was asked to step out of the conference room, so the attorney could speak to the prospective client. I was then asked to step back into the room. The fee to take the case was disclosed. The payment was processed first then we were asked to walk upstairs to pick up contract. Upon leaving the office, I asked the family member, why did the attorney ask me to leave the room, she responded, "the attorney asked if I could trust you or wanted you to be a part of this case. Recently, I have emailed the office and asked for Nadia Oliver to terminate her services and withdraw for this case. By doing so, this attorney has caused a "conflict of interest:, deception, engaging in misconduct in defrauding by taking my money, then encouraging the client to steer away from me. Trust is earned, and not given. Since we left her office on September 11, 2024, this client has become disrespectful and hateful text messages, just totally off the wall going into a rage with herself, definitely not with me, because I was her support system. Like she was literally asking for help until I hired Nadia Oliver, On or about Friday September 13, 2024 that is when I started seeing the inconsistencies, avoidance, excuses and you name it. The true inhibitions started of these person(s) started showing up. Afterwards, all lines of communications were cut off. If this is not a classic example of taking advantage of a 60 year old senior citizen woman of color race and put a 30 year old female of another race against me, is pure deception, discriminatory and a form or misconduct. All unethical and Unfair Business Practices. Each day, I will exercise my civil and constitutional rights to fight this injustice they display. I will lean and reply on the right entities system to see "just cause" for disciplinary actions. I will continue to seek justice in their conduct and wrong-doings. There refusal to terminate their services and withdraw from this case gives confirmation they engaged in financially abusing me to help another. It is a form of theft. Lets get her to help and get her out of the picture concept. Without someone having the money or interest, in the matter. It was me who had the interest and the mother as the paternal grandmother. Not the client. She ended up benefiting. Without me and my pocket-book, there would not be any services rendered. This is truly unethical and unfair business practices causing hostility between families, then processed my card and remove me out of the picture Talking about ill-will intentions. Discrimination against a woman of color and putting the other family at the center, but use my money to fight for the person and put them against me. Racism at its height. Woman against Woman of Color. Judgmental towards my character. This attorney manipulated this client and had her to go against me to use me to gain services without me in the picture. With this said, I need for you to terminate your services, withdraw from this case and refund my money. How deceptive and prejudice could you be. Coerced client to go against her extended family putting division in a case where I was seeking help for all of us. Not just for one person. How ironic this attorney just met the young lady and gravitated to her like glue. They turn on me because racism is the norm for them.
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07 May, 2024 by Fennigan spencer
We hired Charlotte to help us in a custody case. Her professionalism is unparalleled, her quality of work is superior and her rates are fair. Charlotte's knowledge of the law and her tenacity to do what's right got me through many days and nights of stress. I have the upmost confidence in Spurgin & Mattingly and I would not hesitate to hire them again if needed. The team they have is incredible, from the receptionist, the paralegals and the attorneys all are winners in my book.
Fennigan Spencer
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09 Jan, 2025 by Gabriel aeshan
Charlotte is a very talented, professional, and intelligent lawyer. You can trust that she will serve the best interest of your children and family. She is caring and results oriented.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Lisa bumpass
I hired this law firm to represent a family matter for a extended family member,(In hopes we both would benefit something positive for all of us). I sought to seek help for her because she has been living in her past life and seems to be stuck. For the past two years, I have been supporting the minor child over 98% of the time. The mother has been all over the place including sleeping in her car. I thought enough to help her get a room for one week. I even helped her find employment. I started feeding her. She started acting as if she was grateful. Well. things changed after we went to seek help from this law firm. We went into the consultation and both spoke for the same reason and cause. Quite towards the end of the consultation, I was asked to step out of the conference room, so the attorney could speak to the prospective client. I was then asked to step back into the room. The fee to take the case was disclosed. The payment was processed first then we were asked to walk upstairs to pick up contract. Upon leaving the office, I asked the family member, why did the attorney ask me to leave the room, she responded, "the attorney asked if I could trust you or wanted you to be a part of this case. Recently, I have emailed the office and asked for Nadia Oliver to terminate her services and withdraw for this case. By doing so, this attorney has caused a "conflict of interest:, deception, engaging in misconduct in defrauding by taking my money, then encouraging the client to steer away from me. Trust is earned, and not given. Since we left her office on September 11, 2024, this client has become disrespectful and hateful text messages, just totally off the wall going into a rage with herself, definitely not with me, because I was her support system. Like she was literally asking for help until I hired Nadia Oliver, On or about Friday September 13, 2024 that is when I started seeing the inconsistencies, avoidance, excuses and you name it. The true inhibitions started of these person(s) started showing up. Afterwards, all lines of communications were cut off. If this is not a classic example of taking advantage of a 60 year old senior citizen woman of color race and put a 30 year old female of another race against me, is pure deception, discriminatory and a form or misconduct. All unethical and Unfair Business Practices. Each day, I will exercise my civil and constitutional rights to fight this injustice they display. I will lean and reply on the right entities system to see "just cause" for disciplinary actions. I will continue to seek justice in their conduct and wrong-doings. There refusal to terminate their services and withdraw from this case gives confirmation they engaged in financially abusing me to help another. It is a form of theft. Lets get her to help and get her out of the picture concept. Without someone having the money or interest, in the matter. It was me who had the interest and the mother as the paternal grandmother. Not the client. She ended up benefiting. Without me and my pocket-book, there would not be any services rendered. This is truly unethical and unfair business practices causing hostility between families, then processed my card and remove me out of the picture Talking about ill-will intentions. Discrimination against a woman of color and putting the other family at the center, but use my money to fight for the person and put them against me. Racism at its height. Woman against Woman of Color. Judgmental towards my character. This attorney manipulated this client and had her to go against me to use me to gain services without me in the picture. With this said, I need for you to terminate your services, withdraw from this case and refund my money. How deceptive and prejudice could you be. Coerced client to go against her extended family putting division in a case where I was seeking help for all of us. Not just for one person. How ironic this attorney just met the young lady and gravitated to her like glue. They turn on me because racism is the norm for them.
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07 May, 2024 by Fennigan spencer
We hired Charlotte to help us in a custody case. Her professionalism is unparalleled, her quality of work is superior and her rates are fair. Charlotte's knowledge of the law and her tenacity to do what's right got me through many days and nights of stress. I have the upmost confidence in Spurgin & Mattingly and I would not hesitate to hire them again if needed. The team they have is incredible, from the receptionist, the paralegals and the attorneys all are winners in my book.
Fennigan Spencer
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20 Nov, 2024 by Andrés acevedo cruz
“¡Absolutamente increíble! Ha ayudado a muchos de mis amigos con casos de accidentes automovilísticos y cargos penales en Chattanooga, y todos están encantados con los resultados. Su dedicación, experiencia y atención a los detalles lo convierten en el mejor. ¡Altamente recomendado para cualquier situación legal!”
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20 Nov, 2024 by Giovanny molina
exelente profecional y muy servicial conozco casos donde el a ayudado a personas allegadas a mi lo recomiemdo de corazon exelente persona y un gran profecional en procesos de accidentes automovilisticos y penales
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20 Nov, 2024 by Laura valentina molina garcia
Excelente muy profesiónal en su trabajo, ha ayudado varios amigos en accidentes automovilísticos y en cargos penales, lo recomiendo.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Dr. donald mccary
Excellent law firm that does the very best in solving legal problems. They are the best!
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25 Sep, 2023 by Jessica olson
He helped me so much with my divorce. Made it quick and easy over the phone. He talks to you like you're somebody, not just another client. Would really recommend him to everyone to use.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Trent visser
31 Jan, 2024 by Heather swift-woolf
Great man and attorney. He managed my expectations throughout my years long divorce with kindness and in a way that helped me remember what was truly important. Even when I was a difficult client, he remained continually honest, supportive, and hard working. I cannot thank him enough. Even his fees were exceptionally fair.
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23 Jan, 2024 by Lauren smith
Great defense attorney! Highly recommended if you want a good lawyer that is respectful and honest! Good Job Sam.
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18 Mar, 2023 by George
Mr. Hawley handled a probate matter for me. He got it done quick and was very fair and honest in billing his fees. He also has an honor of distinction from UT Law which was a bonus. Mr. Hawley was easy to get along with and was mild mannered but stood up for my rights when he needed to. I would recommend Mr. Hawley for probate matters and I would hire him again if the situation arose.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Salvador lucas
01 Jul, 2024 by Angeles lara
20 Feb, 2024 by Jeremías pérez
Esta oficina y sus trabajadores en mi personal,recomendable para llevar tu caso
Son pacientes y amables en el momento de tu cita!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly peter
I am thankful that Attorney Miller was on my son's case. This was our first time in a situation like this and we needed someone who we could count on to get the job done. She was professional, communicated well, and had my son's case dismissed before his court date.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Dan smith
Excellent attorney, will get you results guarenteed.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Jessica cruz
She was a wonderful lawyer, she got things done! She is very responsive, she will call you right away and text you back right away. No problem. She is really professional and very good at what she does. I couldn't be more thankful for her!!!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Aaron cody
19 Nov, 2024 by Ryan g
21 Sep, 2024 by Cate j.collins
I have been represented by both Mrs. Conine and Mr. Meeks in separate legal matters, and I am thoroughly impressed by their dedication and professionalism. Both attorneys are highly respected by the local community and the courts, demonstrating considerable experience in their field. They have consistently worked diligently to resolve my cases, providing prompt, professional communication and well-informed advice.
While unfavorable outcomes can occur in any legal proceeding, this should not be a source of undue frustration. This firm consistently puts forth substantial effort on my behalf, offering sound counsel and demonstrating a genuine belief in and commitment to their clients. I am reassured knowing that they always act with my best interests in mind.
Read more
19 Sep, 2016 by Leigh ou
David answered an obscure legal question for me pertaining to something that happened to me at a U.S. Consulate in Europe. He managed to find law relevant to my case, and he proposed a solution for me. David found the answer to my question quickly and easily.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Heather
My husband and I hired David for a custody dispute over my nephew. He was always kind, answered our questions appropriately, returned calls promptly and explained the complicated juvenile court system to us. I recommend him to all my friends in need of representation. Our case hasn't always gone as we would have liked but not because of David. He has been wonderful to work with and we wouldn't go elsewhere.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I've not hired Mr. Veazey myself, but am fam illiar with him through the Occupy Chattanooga lawsuit. Not being one of the main organizers, I was not personally his client. However, Mr. Veazey was clearly a capable attorney who fought for a client with whom the public in Chattanooga had little sympathy.
Later when I thought I needed an attorney, I consulted Mr. Veazey who could have taken my case and charged me quite a bit of money. Instead he directed me to a not-for-profit who would assist me in filing a complaint via a regulatory agency and gave me the name of a more specialized firm to consult if that process was unsuccessful.
If I ever need a lawyer again, he will be my first call.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Scotty bagwell
Winning attorneys Im happy so I give them a 4star
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21 Jun, 2023 by Jeffrey cantrell
23 Feb, 2022 by Jena causey
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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.
