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04 Oct, 2024 by Michele' carberry
Literally had the BEST consultation that cleared my mind to help me make smart, informative decisions moving forward. Now I know where to go if needed in the future. Thank you so much D. Zwanetz!!
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31 Aug, 2024 by Leah ortiz
Never say never, as the saying goes. We moved back to Maryland late last year and could never have imagined needing a criminal defense attorney shortly after. A Google search gave me plenty of options and I called a few but it was a familiar name from my childhood that gave me hope. When I called Shapiro, Zwanetz and Lake I was immediately reassured and honestly had already made up my mind no matter the attorney that took the case because the first person I spoke to was Kristina. She was pleasant and personable and listened to the details. I was happy to hear that David Zwanetz would review my daughter’s case and then from our first conversation I knew she would be OK. He got to work right away and communicated with us every step, good news and not so great news. David seemingly took it all in stride; my mama bear issues and the state’s challenges and successfully got the case dismissed. He even came to court to support the state on my daughter’s behalf when he did not have to. I know this is lengthy but for what this did to my daughter physically and mentally and could have unjustly done to her future, it doesn’t say enough.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Keola keliihananui
I cannot speak highly enough of Justin Lake from Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake Attorneys at Law. Facing a stressful and falsely filed second-degree assault charge, I was overwhelmed and anxious about the future. Justin stepped in and proved to be a beacon of hope and professionalism.
From the very beginning, Justin demonstrated a rapid and thorough approach to my defense. His deep understanding of the law, combined with his strategic thinking, turned the tide in my favor. He communicated clearly, kept me informed at every step, and never wavered in his commitment to my case.
Thanks to Justin's ability to dissect the prosecution's arguments and present a compelling defense, the case never even went to trial. His swift and decisive actions led to the complete dismissal of the charges against me. His dedication and expertise not only cleared my name but also restored my peace of mind.
If you need a defense lawyer who is sharp, dedicated, and effective, look no further than Justin Lake. His outstanding work ethic and results speak for themselves. Thank you, Justin, for your exceptional service and unwavering support.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Laura hall
I must say he is the best of the best
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20 Sep, 2024 by Tyres harrelle
I am blessed to have been given the name Todd Mohink. From my initial conversation with Todd via phone one Saturday morning, to visiting his office and interacting with his team, they far exceeded my expectations. The entire team exuded professionalism. I was kept abreast of any documents/findings of fact, and developments in my case. Everything was explained to me in layman's terms, which aided in decreasing my anxiety level. I appreciate that when I left a message, I promptly received either a text of acknowledgment and/or a return call by the end of the day. Todd is composed, transparent, honest, and confident. He remained driven throughout my representation which resulted in a WIN of my criminal case. Thank God and I thank Todd!!!
If you want an attorney who has a plethora of knowledge and expertise, one who is passionate and committed to fighting in a court of law for YOU, look no further, the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA is that key to winning your battle!
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28 Aug, 2024 by John hemlock
I can highly recommend the Lilly Law Firm.
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4.9
9 Reviews
4.8
4 Reviews
16 Sep, 2024 by Virgil new
15 Feb, 2020 by Heather campbell
07 Jul, 2018 by Steve
My family retained him to find and receive compensation from a deadbeat tenant in the late 1990's. Dwight always returned our calls quickly. He was extremely thorough in the courtroom. He quickly negotiated a fair settlement that helped us avoid more legal fees. He didn't bill us needlessly and returned a portion of his retainer, too.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Tonya davis
I was recommended to Keith by my debt consolidation company. He settled my credit card lawsuit in a day and helped me achieve payments that I could afford. He understood that I did not want to file for bankruptcy and just needed affordable monthly payments. I highly recommend Keith! He was a lifesaver.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Diane
Jac was very clear and slowly walked me through the process of a living will. Very kind and considerate. I highly recommend
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17 Mar, 2024 by David nutter
Mr. Blair is very professional and knowledgeable. He helped me win my case. He comes highly recommended.
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13 May, 2018 by Boone
Ms. Joycelyn is a great lawyer. She always on top of things and very good with communication and gets the job done.
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05 Apr, 2015 by Jennifer
I know "great divorce" sounds crazy, but Ms. Stinson was dedicated, up-front and honest about what was going on. She made a very stressful situation more tolerable. I would definitely recommend her for her client focus.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Julia long
07 Apr, 2023 by Nicole diclaudio
Wow! This is the most amazing, professional law office I have ever worked with. They get the job done quick.
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06 Apr, 2023 by Jon christ
Everything went great. They got me out of a huge jam (my Marriage) quickly. Will definetlly use again for my next Marriage. Quick and easy! Highly recommended.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Aduayi akueson
Samuel is good lawyer he defended me from second degree charge, he helps my case so i could not go to jail.
i believe he can handle your case. I trust him he is good.
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09 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Nalli is experienced and knows what he's doing but he lacks communication skills and doesn't communicate with his clients or their families! He will just let you sitting in jail and not keep you updated with what is going on even if nothing is going on he still should atleast contact his client a couple times a month. Especially if they have no court dates set.. I think that is very disrespectful to just leave someone sitting in jail without contacting them at all! He does put up a fight but he doesn't fight hard enough!
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02 Jun, 2023 by Nick
Sam represented me regarding two Peace Orders (which really shouldn't have been placed I'm the first place).
I hired him because I wanted to make sure I could see my daughter ASAP. Sam said not to worry and he was absolutely right.
He's very even keel and knowledgeable, communicates well, and made me feel heard as a client.
Can't recommend him highly enough! Seeing my daighter tomorrow! Thanks Sam!!!
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27 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I was worried because it took her a long time to get back to me. I did very well in spite of that. She handled my case very well! I got the minimum possible charge out of three. She was also able to have my fines waived & i did not get any points on my driving record. She was a nice lady as well. She was approachable; she explained everything in detail so I could understand. I'm very pleased with the results. Thank you so much! She's also quite fashionable. She's a very confident attorney. She does a great job!
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20 Jul, 2024 by Julia long
07 Apr, 2023 by Nicole diclaudio
Wow! This is the most amazing, professional law office I have ever worked with. They get the job done quick.
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06 Apr, 2023 by Jon christ
Everything went great. They got me out of a huge jam (my Marriage) quickly. Will definetlly use again for my next Marriage. Quick and easy! Highly recommended.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Julia long
07 Apr, 2023 by Nicole diclaudio
Wow! This is the most amazing, professional law office I have ever worked with. They get the job done quick.
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06 Apr, 2023 by Jon christ
Everything went great. They got me out of a huge jam (my Marriage) quickly. Will definetlly use again for my next Marriage. Quick and easy! Highly recommended.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Tash otto
I always thought an "officer" did ethical things, like fight for a child's best interest, call out or allow testimony against the lies spoken about someone. I also once believed in justice, not that this matters to you. It's just a paycheck.
I am hopeful that someday you realize that in the interest of your paycheck you destroyed a young woman and her father. You don't care if a good man loses his car, home or job. You only care about winning and there's really nothing a decent person would need to hear beyond that. Maybe someday look deeper into the people whose lives you destroy in the interest of a buck. Because a man who can't afford an attorney can certainly afford to pay your wealthy narcissist the money he could have paid an attorney? I don't make $100k per year. I serve people. We don't make great money, you must know that. Oh, right but you presented lies about my pay to fool the judge.
Congratulations. Resting your case was well played when you don't care about the truth. I could have destroyed your client and her witnesses. Only one of them ever used to know me, the bipolar 54 year old who still lives in his mommy's basement, from high school! You have no idea what you've done. Someday I hope you do. It is a relief that I will never have to deal with the unethical likes of your firm again!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Michelle hamed
Would really not recommend, not thoughtful or caring during COVID and a very sad family matter. I’m still not sure how I was helped me for the amount of money I spent in a short time. I feel was taken advantage of me for 5,000 retainer and billed for each and every line item. As a single Mom, who didn’t have two incomes and during COVID we never even met or Facetime, never even met her online or other
. The sad lack of large financials as a single Mom was totally disregarded. Unfortunately not a good experience at all. Lawyers need to be held accountable for their work and not just bill to bill and make money. I don’t see how physicians are so regulated and lawyers have no regulations, it’s unethical.
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02 Sep, 2023 by K f
Angela Grau and her team of attorneys, paralegals, administrative assistants and accounting department were top notch. Even though as the trustee and personal representative I could manage my mother's trust and estate, I knew nothing on how to defend my mother's trust from litigation. Angela was recommended to me by my mother's attorney who drew up the Maryland Will and Trust. I asked them for a referral. I will not go into details about my particular litigation. DARS was professional, knowledgeable, responsive, paid attention to detail, and helped me navigate the tasks of managing my mother's affairs after her passing. I will forever be thankful for their help. I highly recommend them.
I would like to update my review and make some comments about another attorney within DARS. My niece who lives in Howard County was in need of a top-quality family law attorney. I referred her to DARS and told her she will find a top-notch team to help her with some very serious issues. Once she contacted DARS she decided to utilize the services of Britton Gore. And just yesterday, April 13, my niece received a very positive decision on her case from the Howard Co Court. This portion of the review is secondhand, but I must say that everything that my adult niece and her mother told me about Ms. Gore was extremely positive. She was very prepared for the court proceedings and was able to methodically inform the court of the most important issues which led to their favorable decision. Ms. Gore listened to my niece and pursued evidence to help her tell her story to the court. They are thrilled with the outcome of the proceedings. Once again, thank you DARS for helping my family. And thank you Ms. Gore for your patience, determination, hard work, professionalism and careful consideration of a very serious family issue. You helped my niece find her voice and guided her gently to a positive resolution. My niece and her mother who is my sister, along with my husband and I are grateful to you and your firm.
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23 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Dore knows the law (I think) but is a terrible lawyer. He showed up for every meeting unprepared, including with the opposing party and for a court hearing. He could never retain the facts about my case, and as a result misrepresented some details about my case in court. I don't know if he has too many cases or just can't retain facts and/or can't be bothered to learn details about a case, but he was truly a detriment to my case and resulted in thousands of dollars of unnecessary legal fees, some of which I was able to get written off by his firm.
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13 Nov, 2013 by Avril
I paid a retainer to Jim for some family law work. He did some and then dropped of the face of the earth. Despite my many requests for an accounting of his work, and his email promises he would send it, I never received it and he stopped having any contact with me. He TOOK over $3,000 from me and my family. Apparently, he left the firm he was working for when I hired him, went through a bad divorce and absconded with retainer fees paid to him.
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15 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
It says he is a trial lawyer. That’s a joke. I know the evidence in my case and he rather me sit in jail for 9 months then try to make the state prove that I did what they said. He could not even explain how they can prove it. They still gave me the maximum time and the stress of having all that time for a misdemeanor and non violent at that. It’s because I had the wrong lawyer. Stay far away. He just wants the money and the easy plea deal. While you sit in jail
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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.
