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16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I was represented by attorney Doty in an administrative matter before a licensing board. She was incredibly kind, thoughtful, and diligent in her work to obtain the best possible outcome and help me with my situation. She made sure to word things in a way that felt natural to me but also never strayed into gray areas. She took the time to understand my situation and made sure to represent it honestly and factually. She is honest and above board, and I'd recommend her in a heartbeat.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Ryan
Attorney Ted Lothstein was incredibly diligent in helping me achieve the best possible outcome for my case. He was quick to answer and return my calls and never made me feel judged or culpable. As an out of state DUI, he was very knowledgeable on all the workings and proceedings of my situation and I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking good legal counsel. Thanks Ted
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05 Feb, 2024 by Morgan
My name is Morgan - I earned a DUI in September 2023. I hired Ted as my attorney as the case was too complicated for me to deal with on my own - I got the DUI in NH, but I reside in Florida. I needed help to navigate the court systems in both states as well as in my absence from NH. Ted did a fantastic job. He and his support staff were on top of everything in the most helpful of ways. I am easily confused and they explained everything to me and really helped me get through the process as painlessly as possible. I am completely satisfied with the job they did for me and I feel the fee was well earned. I am planning on using Ted for all my future DUI's from here on out. ........That's a joke.
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16 May, 2017 by Michelle
We hired Kim for a custody case for our 2 year old Granddaughter , after some other lawyer we had screwed everything up . She came right in and took over in the middle of a nasty battle. And proved to the court exactly what my granddaughters best interests where. She did what she said she would do and we will never forget her saving our granddaughter from a life of horror. We are so grateful to have met Kim !!!
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12 Nov, 2015 by Michelle
I have used Kim twice in my Child Custody, Visitation & Child Support hearings. She is knowledgeable and reliable, but also cared about the client (clients) and their best interest. She can also be aggressive if need be. SHE IS MY ROCK! I will use no other attorney!
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23 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Kim was a pleasure to work with, answered all my questions and listened to all my concerns. She was sympathetic and easy to talk to. She was very flexible about meeting times and was always there when she said she was going to be. I would definetly use her again if I ever needed to and recommend her to others
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04 Dec, 2023 by Sohaib siddiqui
Ted Lothstein, ESQ, Amy paralegal and all of his staff are awesome! Ted explains everything in layman terms and was prompt with all of my questions. I highly recommend Ted Lothstein and his law firm
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25 Sep, 2023 by David booth
Working with Kaylee Doty Esq was so easy and so successful. Kaylee is an amazing advocate and i can not strongly enough recommend her services.
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15 Jun, 2023 by David tufano
Back in 2019 I was falsely accused of committing a crime. The subsequent police investigations resulted in my arrest and eventually a wrongful conviction. The criminal attorney who represented me throughout the ordeal highly recommended attorney Lothstein and his law firm to do the appeal. The trial transcripts and all of the other required documentation were gathered and submitted, and Lothstein and Guerriero went to work. The case was accepted by the NH Supreme Court, and oral arguments were heard in the fall of 2022. I was able to attend the oral arguments, and watching attorney Lothstein in action was an absolute privilege. Attorney Lothstein had previously explained the percentages of successful appeals to me, but I left the oral arguments feeling very, very, hopeful. On March 30, 2023, I received word that the conviction was reversed and remanded back to the Superior Court where the trial was conducted. The opinion that the Supreme Court issued was a very strong, concise, and unanimous decision. It is a decision that will be cited in motions and briefs far into the future, and will hopefully help prevent future wrongful convictions due to the law created in our case. It also gave the State of New Hampshire really no choice on their next action, as evidenced by the verbiage on the Notice of Nolle Prosequi that we received from the Superior Court: “Given Supreme Court Order of reverse and remand, the State is not pursuing this charge.” These results were not achieved by accident. The dedication given to this case by attorney Lothstein and his entire legal staff was incredible. From day one I was treated as a person as opposed to just a client. The level of comfort that I felt from the first day we spoke was as high as it could have possibly been, and it remained that way until the day the ruling was announced. The victory that we celebrated in the following days was an extremely hard, well fought, and justly deserved one that has been instrumental in helping me “recover” from a nightmare that continued for only several weeks shy of four very long years. If anyone reading this review has any doubt about who I would recommend to someone in need of an appellate attorney (or any other practice areas they specialize in), you should try reading this review again from the beginning. I know I have said it many times, but once again- attorney Lothstein, Melanie, and everyone else- Thank you again for all that you have done.
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05 Jan, 2018 by Angelina
I worked with Christine Hanisco on my surrogacy contract. She was incredible knowledgeable and helpful during the time we were negotiating my contract. She always availed herself when I had a question whether it was by email or phone. I appreciate her caring empathic ear while I had many questions and concerns while going through this process. I recommend Christine Hanisco for all of your legal needs due to surrrogracy. She also has a wide knowledge of other ‘s in and out of her field that can help with many different avenues when planning to become a surrogate such as but not limited to financial planning, employment attorneys and so forth. She practices in New Hampshire and is well versed in many other New England state’s laws. I live in Massachusetts and had no concerns at all about her knowledge of my state laws verses New Hampshire.
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13 Dec, 2017 by Caitlin
Chrissy drafted my contract as an egg donor. She was extremely thorough, helpful and friendly.
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15 Nov, 2016 by Wendy
Attorney Hanisco was simply amazing through my entire ordeal. No matter how small or how big my questions were she always took the time to make sure that I totally understood her answers. I never felt that if I said to her I don't understand she would be upset having to explain it all over again. She stayed right on top of my case the entire time. I was always contacted each and every time there was any information or movement for my case. Once may "day in court" arrived I was very very nervous. Again, she was able to keep me calm by saying we were not leaving that conference room until I was completely calm and I understood everything. Once we were called, I knew I had hired the right attorney. She was calm but yet spoke with authority and confidence. At one point I thought I was going to faint. She was right there asking the court for a moment. She made me feel like I was the only one in that court room at that moment. I was her #1 priority before, during and after. I would recommend her to anyone who need an attorney. God forbid I every need an attorney again but if I do I will be going directly to Attorney Christine Hanisco.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Emmanuel
Johnathan was able to reduce my traffic ticket to a violation with no points towards my license and just a fine. Very knowledgeable and experienced and got the desired outcome.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Zohan rosenberg
Attorney Cohen and Crystal were fantastic at handling my injury case. They made every step of the process as easy as possible. I am very thankful I found them. Most of the lawyers in NH just want the big cases, but Attorney Cohen is a man of the people. He takes all cases big and small and fights for what you deserve! Crystal is a Rockstar as well! She is polite, friendly, explains everything well, and is always their to take your call if you ever need anything. I won't hesitate to call if I ever need representation again. I will be recommending Cohen & Winters to every person, at every accident, I see! -Jonathan A
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26 Aug, 2024 by Senay007
Best loyers help with my case.step by step very good service I will recommend this Loyer and his team they will fight for you
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04 Dec, 2023 by Sohaib siddiqui
Ted Lothstein, ESQ, Amy paralegal and all of his staff are awesome! Ted explains everything in layman terms and was prompt with all of my questions. I highly recommend Ted Lothstein and his law firm
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25 Sep, 2023 by David booth
Working with Kaylee Doty Esq was so easy and so successful. Kaylee is an amazing advocate and i can not strongly enough recommend her services.
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star star star star star
15 Jun, 2023 by David tufano
Back in 2019 I was falsely accused of committing a crime. The subsequent police investigations resulted in my arrest and eventually a wrongful conviction. The criminal attorney who represented me throughout the ordeal highly recommended attorney Lothstein and his law firm to do the appeal. The trial transcripts and all of the other required documentation were gathered and submitted, and Lothstein and Guerriero went to work. The case was accepted by the NH Supreme Court, and oral arguments were heard in the fall of 2022. I was able to attend the oral arguments, and watching attorney Lothstein in action was an absolute privilege. Attorney Lothstein had previously explained the percentages of successful appeals to me, but I left the oral arguments feeling very, very, hopeful. On March 30, 2023, I received word that the conviction was reversed and remanded back to the Superior Court where the trial was conducted. The opinion that the Supreme Court issued was a very strong, concise, and unanimous decision. It is a decision that will be cited in motions and briefs far into the future, and will hopefully help prevent future wrongful convictions due to the law created in our case. It also gave the State of New Hampshire really no choice on their next action, as evidenced by the verbiage on the Notice of Nolle Prosequi that we received from the Superior Court: “Given Supreme Court Order of reverse and remand, the State is not pursuing this charge.” These results were not achieved by accident. The dedication given to this case by attorney Lothstein and his entire legal staff was incredible. From day one I was treated as a person as opposed to just a client. The level of comfort that I felt from the first day we spoke was as high as it could have possibly been, and it remained that way until the day the ruling was announced. The victory that we celebrated in the following days was an extremely hard, well fought, and justly deserved one that has been instrumental in helping me “recover” from a nightmare that continued for only several weeks shy of four very long years. If anyone reading this review has any doubt about who I would recommend to someone in need of an appellate attorney (or any other practice areas they specialize in), you should try reading this review again from the beginning. I know I have said it many times, but once again- attorney Lothstein, Melanie, and everyone else- Thank you again for all that you have done.
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10 May, 2019 by George
I went to Paul to represent/advise me with my divorce. It didn't take long for us to develop a good rapport and working relationship. He handled all aspects of my divorce very efficiently and made the whole experience tolerable. He did not try to milk me for money, as lawyers might have a reputation for doing. He treated me like a human, and eventually as a friend. He has a great sense of humor; he also doesn't mince words. He is an extremely skilled attorney - not just in the area of divorce, but also with criminal matters; he is also quite intelligent and can quickly answer questions and help his client with decision-making. During my time with him I consulted with him about a few other personal matters and he always gave me very candid and helpful advice. I couldn't recommend him enough.
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16 Oct, 2017 by Ron
Attorney Maggiotto was professional, timely, and always well prepared when I met with him. I was very pleased with the outcome the case he did for me. I would use him again.
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14 Oct, 2017 by Anthony
Had a few very difficult legal dilemmas my adult children found themselves in. Went to two other attorneys whose efforts and capabilities were lackluster at best. I then found Paul Maggioto. He handled the cases as if he was the one risking jail time. I am extremely impressed. You WILL want him on your side.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Lucille rondeau
Extremely professional. Could not have asked for anything better. Stacey Seward who handled my case was amazing. She kept me informed about everything going on throughout the whole process. I would highly recommend.
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18 Jun, 2024 by David boufford
I retained Attorney Charles Douglas from Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C. to handle a very sensitive matter for me. From my first conversation I was blown away by his humanity, his caring and understanding nature about my situation was a huge benefit for me. His ability to help me through the emotional part of this was a surprise I never expected from a lawyer, honestly he was amazing! (way exceeded my expectations) His skill at walking me through the entire process and preparing me for my deposition was excellent. I would give him 10 STARS if I could. And the outcome was better than I ever expected. I would advise anyone consider working with this firm to do it! The entire staff is professional and awesome. Thank you so much.
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13 May, 2024 by Sandi simpson
If you ever need legal assistance, this is the place to go! Absolutely wonderful staff. Very professional. Eager to help and explain with any issues that you may have. Understanding and genuine. Highly recommended
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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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