Lawyers map
>213
experienced lawyers
Filter by
03 Mar, 2025 by Nicholas moscatelli
Moving on today to a new law firm. Use anyone but them. Even represent yourself.
Read more
01 Mar, 2025 by Sidd shanmugam
01 Mar, 2025 by Sey kirkland
What a great experience! From my intake meeting alone, I felt welcome and supported. A special thanks to Layla, who was incredibly helpful, engaging and understanding as she guided me through the process. For anyone unfortunate enough to be dealing with HOA issues like I was, I highly recommend this firm.
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Consulted him, as a friend on a labor matter. He said he would do the case pro-bono. I insisted on paying but he would not accept. Never did a thing. Due to time limitation expired, lost my ability to claim what was due me. No communication. Has not returned files provided to him after numerous requests. If this is the way he treated a friend, I feel sorry for any clients.....
Read more
10 Jul, 2023 by Ileana serra
Compre una casa y use al abogado Fuste, no pude quedar mas contenta el servicio fue excelente y el precio muy razonable. Se lo recomiendo altamente
Read more
30 Jun, 2023 by Aileen rodriguez
People rely on lawyers and attorneys, usually, at points in their life that they'd rather not talk about. But, that's how it goes. Mr. Fuste was that attoney that for me at the point I needed him he went through every single step of the way with me when I had lost hope and thought I had lost my career in law enforcement. Mr. Fuste gave me the motivation and showed me that there was a light at the end of every dark tunnel. Mr. Fuste even checked on my well being do to the stress and traumatic experience I was passing. They had released me of my duties and told me I was no longer going to be receiving any payment. Mr. Fuste worked extremely diligently on my case and for the five months I had been released sitting at home he was able to still get me my payments. Mr. Fuste finalized and won the case after just 5 months. I returned back to work thanks to him I am where I am today and continue doing what I love most.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Fazex games -_-
My experience at Berman Law Group was amazing, paralegal ana karina finol provided an excellent job. Highly recommended
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Daniel ambrose
Spencer is a great advocate who puts his clients #1
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Derrick george
My go to Personal Injury attorney in Florida for PI referrals. We send all of our PI Cruise Line related cases to Spencer Aronfeld and he treats every case with the highest level of detail. He is a fighter for his clients rights and Aronfeld Law deliver results.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Fazex games -_-
My experience at Berman Law Group was amazing, paralegal ana karina finol provided an excellent job. Highly recommended
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Daniel ambrose
Spencer is a great advocate who puts his clients #1
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Derrick george
My go to Personal Injury attorney in Florida for PI referrals. We send all of our PI Cruise Line related cases to Spencer Aronfeld and he treats every case with the highest level of detail. He is a fighter for his clients rights and Aronfeld Law deliver results.
Read more
08 Jan, 2024 by Natasha herak
If you are looking for an attorney who actually cares, look no further. Excellent attorney and human being. One of a kind.
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by Edward cooper
I had a great experience with the whole thing, and he was very attentive to all The needs and questions I had definitely earned the five stars
Read more
22 Jun, 2023 by Stella teran
Thank you, Scott. "YOU ARE THE BEST"
Thank you for your support and understanding during this process and your prompt response when I have questions or need your help. Your experience, knowledge, professionalism, and, most importantly, your kind treatment make the process easier and more bearable!
I will recommend your services to everyone in the family law matter or personal injury process.
Once again, THANK YOU!
Sincerely yours,
Stella M Teran
Read more
15 Feb, 2025 by Yosmer esqueda
10 Feb, 2025 by Daniela canelo
Pésimo, no volvieron a responder. 👎🏻
Read more
16 Oct, 2024 by Jacobus viljoen
I want to thank Enrique and his team for the excellent service I have received. They have been extremely helpful with my green card application process and it was very smooth. Communication was 10/10 and I would recommend them to anyone. I am super satisfied. Thank you!
Read more
12 Feb, 2025 by Jorge martinez
Good lawyer! I used him back in 2008. Had great results with him. Would highly recommend him. Good Lawyer...
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Enzo s
I wouldnt recommend this guy not even to my worst enemy. He represented me years ago. Took money up front didnt even get a receipt he had longer hair like a mullet almost back then. His partner warned me but i was really young I didn't know any better. My case was in my favor yet he was supper passive and complacent with what they were offering. He didnt counter or question the offer at all. I told him over and over no. Fight it!!! thats what im paying you for. Not to answer for me in court. Like stated above a public defender would of done better. He kept asking me for money at that point i decided to seek a second opinion/ consultation and cut my losses with him and luckily my new lawyer actually did his job and filed a motion had one court date and was offf clean . Case closed . Never again.
Read more
09 Jul, 2023 by Frank espinoza
hired him 20yrs ago for a fraud case mind you the chiropractor that was defrauding kept her license while i was informed if you voluntary give up license you cant work in medical field.Was always late too all my hearings too laid back i would have gotten the same results from a public defender. i would have kept my license like the real fraudster did.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Bernardo lamere
La Atencion fue excepcional, mi experiencia en lo personal fue impecable. Me brindó una asesoría clara y concisa desde el primer momento. Gracias a su experiencia, resolvió mi caso de manera rápida y eficiente. Lo recomiendo ampliamente a quienes busquen un abogado confiable y cercano."
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Luis david somaly
Quiero agradecer al estudio de abogados por el trabajo realizado de mi demanda la cual me encuentro muy satisfecho ya que el estudio los abogados y personal que laboran en todo momento me han dado atención y información mostrando mucha dedicación y profesionalismo..recomiendo a muchas personas que necesiten los servicios de un estudio o abogados a este estudio de abogados FAIRLAW FIRM ABOGADOS....MUCHAS GRACIAS
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Miguel305miami
He sabotaged my claim,he only cares about his fees, and he abandoned my claim after 1 year cause I refused to accept a low offer while he put a lien on my money,I hope the Bar investigates all his files
Read more
08 Feb, 2025 by Robert nolan
The worst Atterney I could have ever chosen in my life. He left on vacation when my hearing was set. Then sent someone that didn’t have a clue hat was going on with my case. Worst mistake of my life as far as picking an Atterney. Huge mistake. He left when I needed him and paid him for. Then never answered. Huge mistake choosing Manny a Perez. Huge mistake. I happen to be one of those people that have been convicted of something g I did not do because I chose the wrong Atterney. At the end Manny told me I could just switch to another Atterney if I want after he took my money. Horrible experience. Don’t hire this guy. Hey tried to pursue me for additional money after he didn’t show up at my hearing. Horrible experience. I totally made a huge mistake by hiring Many Perez. The worst thing is that my mistake will now follow me for the rest of my life, from something that I am innocent of. He had no interest in my case at all. He left on vacation and ignored me while I stood in court alone. But charged me for that. Again. Huge mistake.
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Ana vivian gonzalez
Como Abogado es muy Excelente y Profesional !!!
Read more
19 May, 2024 by Teresa claveria
I recently had the pleasure of working with Emmanuel Perez and cannot speak highly enough of their professionalism and dedication. From the initial consultation to the final verdict, Mr. Perez provided exceptional legal counsel and support.
His deep understanding of the law, combined with their strategic thinking, made a significant difference in the outcome of the case. Emmanuel Perez was always available to answer questions, explain the legal process, and offer reassurance during a very stressful time.
Thanks to Emmanuel Perez's hard work and expertise, a favorable outcome was achieved. I highly recommend attorney Emmanuel Perez to anyone in need of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney.
Read more
21 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
To whom it may concern,
I wanted to share my experience with the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Coral Gables, FL.
Miami is a beautiful place. On a spring break trip almost 20 years ago. I got a couple of tickets on my motorcycle. Who pays out of state vacation tickets right?
Those tickets began to accrue fines and charges such as a warrant being issued. I had no idea. The Law offices of Walter A. Reynoso, P.A took care of all my worries.
I know it sounds very cliche but I did not want to walk into courthouse to resolve a ticket and get arrested. Through their dedication, compassion and committment to excellence.
They were able to get the tickets dismissed. This was money well spent. I don’t ride my motorcycle much anymore but if I get into any type of legal trouble I know who to call.
Kristen Reynoso was so pleasant to work with. If you ride your motorcycle in South Florida it is just a matter of time before a ticket throws itself at you. Some of them are serious.
I recommend the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Coral Gables, FL. Walter and Kristen will take care of you.
Best Regards,
E.S
Read more
04 Mar, 2022 by Mellisa
Walter A. Reynoso and Kristen A. Reynoso
are gifts from God. They are the best attorneys anyone could ever wish for. I was accused of two serious felony charges. Both accusations resulted in “Dismissal” before the trial even began. Both attorneys worked diligently to prove my innocence and protect my civil rights. I wholeheartedly thank them for preserving my over 18years of active duty military career and defending my integrity. I recommend using them for ALL your legal requirements!
Respectfully,
Very Satisfied Client
Read more
05 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Walter and Kristen's Law firm I highly recommended to anyone. They are knowledagble, professional, accredited, compassionate and understanding. I highly recommend them for representation in knowing they will fight for the very best outcome for you. They treated me like family and im ever so grateful. Because to me family is everything and also is to the Reynoso Firm. Thank you Kristen and Walter. God bless you and your family.
Read more
08 Feb, 2025 by Robert nolan
The worst Atterney I could have ever chosen in my life. He left on vacation when my hearing was set. Then sent someone that didn’t have a clue hat was going on with my case. Worst mistake of my life as far as picking an Atterney. Huge mistake. He left when I needed him and paid him for. Then never answered. Huge mistake choosing Manny a Perez. Huge mistake. I happen to be one of those people that have been convicted of something g I did not do because I chose the wrong Atterney. At the end Manny told me I could just switch to another Atterney if I want after he took my money. Horrible experience. Don’t hire this guy. Hey tried to pursue me for additional money after he didn’t show up at my hearing. Horrible experience. I totally made a huge mistake by hiring Many Perez. The worst thing is that my mistake will now follow me for the rest of my life, from something that I am innocent of. He had no interest in my case at all. He left on vacation and ignored me while I stood in court alone. But charged me for that. Again. Huge mistake.
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Ana vivian gonzalez
Como Abogado es muy Excelente y Profesional !!!
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Felipe caballero
Exactly what you’re looking for in a family law office. Professional and competent.
Read more
16 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I really recommend Dr. Izaguire he helped me so much with my case and kept me updated throughout the process until everything was taken care of. Excellent job !!!!
Read more
29 Jun, 2022 by Lester
Is an amazing attorney. He works with you, so he is affordable. He also responds within 24 hours and keeps you updated on your tickets or case. I’m referring him to all my friends and family.
Read more
09 Jun, 2022 by Carlos
Alfredo is an excellent Attorney and a great person as well. I’ve known him him for years and he’s always approachable for assistance regarding any legal matters. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
06 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Ed Martínez took his time to explain to me details of a document I received from the government through a different attorney who completely misguided and lied to me. It was his influence that encouraged me to fight back and ended up in a life changing outcome.
Read more
18 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Great lawyer.. I had a legal issue this year. Most of the lawyers I spoke kept giving me the run around. Not only was Ed able to get me a better deal, he fought for me until the end. There is a reason they call him “the bull A great professional, friendly lawyer that will fight for his clients. Thank you so much!
Read more
04 Dec, 2017 by Kevin
From the minute i hired Ed he was ontop of my case. Within a weeks i had money that was taken returned to me and before i knew it had my case dropped. He made sure my record stayed clean, I would recommend him anyday of the week.
Read more
12 Feb, 2025 by Jorge martinez
Good lawyer! I used him back in 2008. Had great results with him. Would highly recommend him. Good Lawyer...
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Enzo s
I wouldnt recommend this guy not even to my worst enemy. He represented me years ago. Took money up front didnt even get a receipt he had longer hair like a mullet almost back then. His partner warned me but i was really young I didn't know any better. My case was in my favor yet he was supper passive and complacent with what they were offering. He didnt counter or question the offer at all. I told him over and over no. Fight it!!! thats what im paying you for. Not to answer for me in court. Like stated above a public defender would of done better. He kept asking me for money at that point i decided to seek a second opinion/ consultation and cut my losses with him and luckily my new lawyer actually did his job and filed a motion had one court date and was offf clean . Case closed . Never again.
Read more
09 Jul, 2023 by Frank espinoza
hired him 20yrs ago for a fraud case mind you the chiropractor that was defrauding kept her license while i was informed if you voluntary give up license you cant work in medical field.Was always late too all my hearings too laid back i would have gotten the same results from a public defender. i would have kept my license like the real fraudster did.
Read more
08 Feb, 2025 by Robert nolan
The worst Atterney I could have ever chosen in my life. He left on vacation when my hearing was set. Then sent someone that didn’t have a clue hat was going on with my case. Worst mistake of my life as far as picking an Atterney. Huge mistake. He left when I needed him and paid him for. Then never answered. Huge mistake choosing Manny a Perez. Huge mistake. I happen to be one of those people that have been convicted of something g I did not do because I chose the wrong Atterney. At the end Manny told me I could just switch to another Atterney if I want after he took my money. Horrible experience. Don’t hire this guy. Hey tried to pursue me for additional money after he didn’t show up at my hearing. Horrible experience. I totally made a huge mistake by hiring Many Perez. The worst thing is that my mistake will now follow me for the rest of my life, from something that I am innocent of. He had no interest in my case at all. He left on vacation and ignored me while I stood in court alone. But charged me for that. Again. Huge mistake.
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Ana vivian gonzalez
Como Abogado es muy Excelente y Profesional !!!
Read more
19 May, 2024 by Teresa claveria
I recently had the pleasure of working with Emmanuel Perez and cannot speak highly enough of their professionalism and dedication. From the initial consultation to the final verdict, Mr. Perez provided exceptional legal counsel and support.
His deep understanding of the law, combined with their strategic thinking, made a significant difference in the outcome of the case. Emmanuel Perez was always available to answer questions, explain the legal process, and offer reassurance during a very stressful time.
Thanks to Emmanuel Perez's hard work and expertise, a favorable outcome was achieved. I highly recommend attorney Emmanuel Perez to anyone in need of a skilled and dedicated defense attorney.
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I have spoken to Joe many times and he is a very nice man, but he was all talk and no action. I found out when getting a new attorney, that the paralegal, that I had to deal with most of the time is a disbarred attorney with active criminal charges pending against her.
Read more
09 Apr, 2021 by Chrissy foderick
What a professional attorney and office!
Something you do not see often anymore. We highly recommend!!!
Read more
19 Nov, 2019 by Kris miles
Mr. Admire is an expert in his field. Communicates well. Makes clients feel at ease discussing their plans.
Read more
07 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Jelani is not qualified to take on any case, he handled my case with no concerns to me and no intrest to the issue of the case. Jelani played on me just taken the money and giving me no definite answers, no return phone calls or text. My advice to any and everyone run from him.
Read more
14 Sep, 2016 by Nigel wanza
Great lawyer to work with. Jelani has been my lawyer for years. He gets the job done. He has gotten several criminal cases dismissed. I am satisfied with his work. One of the best lawyers down in the South Florida area. I always recommend Jelani Davis.
Read more
07 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I would like to say that Mr. Jelani was defending my cousins case and he is the best lawyer i have ever meet, hes very responsible and takes his time to explain the case to the family members. He also makes his client feel like family and that's something very good to admire and respect about a lawyer. No doubt i recommend Mr. Jelani as your defense attorney he really knows what hes doing.
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Oswaldo chavez
14 Nov, 2024 by Giovanna quina
13 Nov, 2024 by Josef fuentess
12 Feb, 2025 by Jorge martinez
Good lawyer! I used him back in 2008. Had great results with him. Would highly recommend him. Good Lawyer...
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Enzo s
I wouldnt recommend this guy not even to my worst enemy. He represented me years ago. Took money up front didnt even get a receipt he had longer hair like a mullet almost back then. His partner warned me but i was really young I didn't know any better. My case was in my favor yet he was supper passive and complacent with what they were offering. He didnt counter or question the offer at all. I told him over and over no. Fight it!!! thats what im paying you for. Not to answer for me in court. Like stated above a public defender would of done better. He kept asking me for money at that point i decided to seek a second opinion/ consultation and cut my losses with him and luckily my new lawyer actually did his job and filed a motion had one court date and was offf clean . Case closed . Never again.
Read more
09 Jul, 2023 by Frank espinoza
hired him 20yrs ago for a fraud case mind you the chiropractor that was defrauding kept her license while i was informed if you voluntary give up license you cant work in medical field.Was always late too all my hearings too laid back i would have gotten the same results from a public defender. i would have kept my license like the real fraudster did.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Yudel
Todo muy bien y una buena atención excelente trabajo, el abogado hizo un gran trabajo y las muchacha fueron muy amables
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Maria
Quiero agradecer sinceramente a todo el personal de la oficina , especialmente a Vero por su profesionalismo y dedicación. Desde el primer día, demostraron conocimiento, empatía y compromiso con mi caso. Siempre estuvieron disponibles para responder mis preguntas y explicarme cada paso del proceso demanera clara. Estare con ustedes hasta concluir mi caso . Sin duda, recomendaría sus servicios a cualquier persona que necesite apoyo legal. ¡Son los mejores!”
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Juliana
Gracias al abogado de emigración Greg Chonillo, a la paralegal Yuly Herrera y a todo su equipo de trabajo q lograron revocar la deportación de mi esposo ya era un caso perdido y con todo su empeño lo lograron si dios quiere ya pronto mi esposo estará con su familia agradecida de todo corazón
Read more
18 Jul, 2015 by Adam
I have known Mr. Bellido for a while now. He meets in a professional group with me every Wednesday. As the groups Contract and Business litigation attorney, this super lawyer leads our group with his passion for law and his respect for others. His well established ROIG law firm has the staff and talent to get a case finished. I myself had Mr. Bellido help me out with a business issue and when his firm got involved, the results were putting me in the boxing ring instead of being cut at the legs with no way out. Nelson and his firm got me respect and the issue is being resolved. I thank Mr. Bellido for his talent, energy and understanding of business law. This lawyer and his firm comes incredibly recommended and now I will recommend him. One great thing about Nelson is that if he can't resolve something, his outreach into his law firm super team can.
Read more
11 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
We needed advice on how to handle real state and cc debt after family death. we were not familiar with Estate planning in the US. Bellido asked for $5K as a retainer to investigate cc debt liability and write up of deed with right of survivorship.
For four months we kept receiving bills from Bellido. Bills that exaggerated phone call durations, charged for 1 hour of phone call when it was only 10 minutes. By the end of the fifth month we hadn't received anything back and he had already spent the $5,000 retainer. when we finally decided we did not want to use his services because frankly we couldn't afford to pay more money. His secretary forwards us a "Quit Claim Deed". (by the way anyone can write one of these in five minutes). We called and said that a quit claim deed is not what we discussed. 1 hour later he sends a warrantee deed. He never gave a definitive answer to the cc debt. He filed the warrantee deed with Broward County for which he charged another $400 on top.
A year later I get a call from a real state agent saying that the current owner of the estate was the grantees and not the grantor as we originally intended with right of survivorship to the grantees. The way the document was written was wrong. I called Bellido and same day he sends a corrected version of the warranty deed. He stated that he did not agree with the County. I went to file this corrected version of the document personally and it cost me less than $20.
Again at the time we were not familiar with US law so we decided to hire an attorney. now I did some research and found that the document he filed for us is subject to probate which he never mentioned! What he should have suggested was a living trust to avoid probate. Any decent lawyer would have advised better. Bellido did not help at all.
Read more
07 Jan, 2014 by Dan anixt
Nelson represented my former company in a number of commericial litigation matters. His vigorous representation, attention to detail, and ability to think strategically helped us achieve excellent results. Nelson also is very cognizant of the need to keep legal expenses reasonable and proportionate to the matter thereby providing excellent value. Above all else Nelson is a gentleman and respected member of the South Florida legal commmunity. I reccomend him highly to anyone looking for effective counsel with proven ability in litigation.
Read more
15 Sep, 2013 by He still has my info
One of the worse lawyers I have ever dealt with, non responsive and the only way you'll hear from him is to ask for more money. Doesn't provide enough information on your case at all, until you LOSE EVERYTHING. Doesn't have security parameters to protect all your personal information sent to him, amazing!!!
Bottom line one of the worse lawyers in Miami!!!
Read more
16 May, 2011 by Anonymous
Alfredo Miguel Garcia-Menocal es un berdadero profecional ar que yo le doy un 10 es el unico abogado que me ayudo y me iso mi modificasion cuandos otros no pudieron las officinas de Alfredo Miguel Garcia-Menocal lo hisieron todos trabajaron com mi banco asta lograr la modificasion la cual estoy muy complasida con los servicios de el al iguar que jorje velez les doy mis gracias y sigan asi pues hoy es muy dificir comfiar en un a filma de abogados como yo confio en ustedes gracias mil martha rodriguez
Read more
19 Oct, 2023 by Victoria
I hired Scott R Miller back 2021 and he closed out my case without any trial for 5k. Since he was familiar with my case history, I returned to need him in 2023. We spoke and it was understood , no trial. I signed the contract. 30 days later Scott is calling me, that I owe him another 5k because I signed the contract for 10k. Scott was supposed to be my lawyer and he was supposed to protect me. He screwed me over big time. Threatening me that he wanted the rest of the money. My case was never going to trial. It was an easy swap out. That’s what the understanding was.
I felt he has done this scheme before. I would avoid dealing with Scott R Miller if he swindles his own clients out of money.
Read more
10 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
He is very rude and did nothing to help me I would definitely not recommend him
Read more
18 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
This lawyer intimidated my witnesses and limited their testimonies. He resides in the same building as one of the prosecutors, which he doesn't disclose until the actual trial. He does very little research or back ground checks he claims to know what the judge will allow so he presents very little defense. I hired him watched him work and the defendant get 30 years. He doesn't do appeal nor recommend anyone after he botches the case.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Hector favian perez
05 Oct, 2023 by Constance williams
22 Aug, 2023 by Myra williams
01 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Casas is the worse attorney on the market.
Do not recommend her at all. She is a thief!!!!!
Read more
07 Jan, 2024 by Wendy
Ms. Casas-Rowe is a great and honest attorney. She depends her clients based on law and facts. Will be coming back to her for any other legal services wether it be family or criminal this is my #1 go ti attorney from now on. She is reliable and on time always knows her line of work and gets you the best results with hard work. Worth every dime.
Read more
16 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not recommend this attorney. She takes your money and then drops the case. She works dirty.
Read more
06 Aug, 2021 by Pete
Call was assigned to me as a public defender for my case and did nothing for nine months and two weeks before trial without preparing wanna me to instead please guilty. He was highly incompetence in my case and I do not recommend him.
Read more
03 May, 2015 by Anonymous
McKenna was "handling" our condo's delinquent units and did not take aggressive action; our position was compromised because he didn't pay attention to facts.
He was also hired for an eviction. A year later, he's made no progress. He's forgetful, lacks motivation to represent his client, took the money, no diligence.
Terrible at following up. Even gives wrong legal advice.
Maybe he's good at title transactions but I wouldn't trust his work on anything.
Read more
12 Mar, 2020 by Carlton
---=Lane S. Abraham and office was appointed to represent me and it was a truly horrible experience where hiis staff was rude constantly and Lane would not recieve or return any of my calls. Finally he just left me hung out to dry. Lied on me and to me. Terribly dishonest. Has let me down in time of need.
Read more
01 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I would not recommend this attorney to anyone, not even to my worst enemy. I am still wondering how can this “attorney” practice the law after he swore an Oath? I paid him $5,000 to represent me on a civil case – foreclosure, and I ended up filing for a bankruptcy because he took my money, and did not fight for my rights. He kept all my legal documents, and did never called me back. Also, after my first 30 minutes of free consultation were almost over, he reminded how time is money and he’d charge $350 an hour. This person has a lack of character.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
