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25 Feb, 2024 by Robin
She’s biased towards men keeping their wealth … my spouse stole hundreds of thousands of dollars my first attorney lied to the judge and said she sent a document to get forensic and as soon as I called her out she withdrew and there’s zero accountability with this judge! I was the defendant and the rules only applied to me! And she signs off on these bottom feeding attorneys zero accountability ! Then she noted to my 3rd attorney how my x who quit his job 10 days before trial and gave me a lump sum of 20k for alimony after a 27 year marriage … what a joke and he took over 2 million and I got a whopping 57 k and I’ve been a stay home mom for 25 years I make very little and they bankrupted me! The entire case was orchestrated by my stepson attorney who told me exactly how it was going down so this is total corruption!!! She sided with him the entire case … as he pretends to be a victim when he was the abuser! He controlled me with money and she didn’t care! Gave me 7 credit card bills to pay and zero alimony … then made me list my home with a realtor as it was listed with a flat fee company so I lost my home too!!! She is a horrible judge and needs to go!!! Corruption at its finest !!! He even wrote the restraining order to his rules … it’s disgusting ! No justice and total biased! Get rid of her!!!
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15 Dec, 2022 by Shay
She’s very biased towards men. She’s a horrible magistrate. She’s very rude and disrespectful. She does not care about the kids only the mother. The judges needs to do their job instead of her! She only cares about the mother’s interest and not the kids. She needs to be out of office?
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21 Aug, 2022 by Jay
Jamie L Allen is absolute hack. It's sad that she is now a magistrate with no real field work to prove. What do they say? "Those who can't do, teach." She couldn't do, and then she spent all of her time before becoming a magistrate as an instructor at a community college. Now however, she spends time pulling children from good father's and giving them to abusive mothers. Proven abusive mothers, which is of course blatantly ignored by her. She is disrespectful and disgusting towards anyone in the courtroom she deems as someone who may have bullied her as a child, while she sits behind her desk sweating from obesity and harshly judging men. Jamie L Allen is everything that is wrong with the justice system, and three men alone in Delaware county are actively bringing her decisions and weak willed judgement before the supreme court. Can't wait to see her go down for what she is.
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11 Oct, 2021 by Cynthia
Interviewed and hired Miss Wrice to represent a family member. Told me our case would be ready to file in court in about 3 months after I hired her. (She had already reviewed our files and accepted the case). She also told me she hired another lawyer as her co-counsel to help with the case. After months turned into years, I discovered she had basically given my case to that new lawyer (Donald Wiggins Jr) who was barely out of law school. He kept giving us the run-a-round and continually missed deadlines. In addition, there was little to no oversight from Miss Wrice. She never knew what was going on and referred all calls to Wiggins. After we became increasingly frustrated and impatient, he (Wiggins) gave us a draft that was full of typographical errors and false information. We couldn’t use anything he produced. Miss Wrice acknowledged the incompetent work but couldn’t do anything because Mr Wiggins stopped responding to all of us and refused to return the files I provided. In the end, Miss Wrice refunded my money after a lot of hassle, but I am complaining to the Bar about my files and the almost 3 years I wasted with nothing to show for it.
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24 Aug, 2021 by Quan
Terrible super unprofessional and just wants your money. Tried to explain my situation and basically got told I was talking to much. I would not recommend.
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15 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Never on time and useless hhhhhh hhhhhhn hbnjjjng ghhhhhgvv ghhhhhnhvh hhhbbbhg gffddxxx ghjjjgdxb
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05 Jun, 2023 by Beth
I paid and signed a contract through Amy with Hayden A Capace, 11-2022. I went to court 1-13-2023 and Hayden did a Zoom. He did not even physically show to court to defend me. Even though the letter sent stated he would be there. I took a friend because I have never hade a criminal charge in my life. (52) The door to the court room open a women said " You're lawyer wants to speak to you." I went in, dressed in a suit outfit, he was on a T.V. monitor. He asked me to take a plea. I stated do you know or did you hear or see something I don't know about? He stated No, get the prosecutor. As I started to walk he Stated to me that " He was leaving Amy Levine for a better job. I took out a personal loan the day I hired Hayden, because I do not E-sign nothing. The loan officer made a copy of the contract. I have it, it's signed. I put $1700.00 on my Discover card was charged a $100.00 for the personal loan that equaled $2,900.00. Amy said I never signed a contract, I did and I have it. So the judge let him withdraw then she withdrew. And Amy & Hayden feel they have earned $2,900.00 for?? The after Jan 13 2023 he was sent evidence, and e-mailed it to me. I only got a letter that he was withdrawing. Yet when I called the Clerk of Courts, she E-mails me a four page letter that I am not being a good client in several ways. If that were true in any way Hayden would have never E-mail the evidence he got to me, after court. Hayden nor Amy will contact me about keeping my $2900.00. Because Discover would not let them have any oft he $1,700,00. Because I called and told them what was going on. Amy told me I owed her $300.00 more, but she will let it slide. So Hayden has left me with a contract he did not fulfill, and not enough money to hire a lawyer to defend me. I am on SSD and I am innocent of this charge.. My reference for Hayden A Capace or Amy Levine are a -10. Below poor. And that is being nice.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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