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17 Oct, 2024 by Nicole martin
Got a call back for a consult and all I received was snarky and rude remarks. It was really off-putting. I was trying to get with someone to figure out if part of my lease was illegal and when I asked about the state law I received the remark of, "Well why do you need me then it sounds like you already know everything...." Just.....wow. I expected more of this place with the great reviews they had. Lawyers are called because people need help with navigating the law. I didn't deserve to be treated with such disrespect as I was. They might be good in other litigation but I do not recommend calling them for a tenant/landlord issue. I'll take my money elsewhere. Very disappointed.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Gregg
Allison did a great job representing me, Was very up front on everything & how it was
Most likely to turn out. Much appreciated! Recommend 100%
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20 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms Schwach was my attorney in a criminal case, Over the 11 months that we worked together I found her to be very professional and detailed.. She helped me through this difficult time by keeping me informed of what was going on .She worked tirelessly to get me the best results possible. I highly recommend her
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21 May, 2021 by Jacqueline
Mark took the time to listen to my case and ask several questions as well as explain everything to me. I would highly recommend him for all your troubles!
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24 Aug, 2018 by Rachel
Was able to handle my divorce in 1996 very smoothly and without a long waiting period I was very happy!!!
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02 Mar, 2018 by Ashley
Mark Rater goes above and beyond for his clients, and or anyone else who is in need of any assistance; not only does he respond to questions in a timely manner, but he also is very honest and helpful. Mark is someone who I would recommend 100% in any case you may have, for his knowledge and efforts to help others. Many lawyers may take every penny you have in order to benefit their own well being, but Mark is someone who would put his self in your shoes and work with you in order to better your life or situation and make sure that you know and understand your case 100% or the situation, and wouldn’t leave with any un answered questions. In my opinion; as a mother with many questions, and having children to protect, I feel 100% confident in his words and knowledge that I can move forward with my day to day life and feel confident in my case.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Jjg
In late January of 2024, I retained Tricia as my attorney to represent me in multifaceted case after having lost confidence in my previous attorney. Tricia and Emily immediately got to work on my case and from there my situation begin improving bit by bit in a consistent manner. I was treated with compassion, understanding, and at times patience, while simultaneously being represented in an ethical, honest, and when needed, aggressive manner throughout my case. Tricia responds to communication in a timely and concise manner, and does not leave you feeling out in the cold during your time(s) of need. Tricia will also actively work for you in a manner that is meant to save on billable hours. She did not operate in a way that would encourage behavior or unnecessary communication that would cost, me the client, more money than I had to spend to navigate the complexities of the legal system. You can feel confident that you are in good hands at Southwest Iowa Law Office.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Tara davis
Called to just get pointed in the right direction and her receptionist was rude and disrespectful I just hung up. Like really so now ik your reviews was staged.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Tonya
My experience from the beginning to the end was beyond positive. The secretary that took my phone call was incredibly helpful and empathetic to my situation. My attorney, McKenzie was diligent about responding to me within a timely fashion along with my concerns while listening to my questions and answering them. She put forth 150% effort to represent myself against Mills County School District. I truly believe that she is one of the attorneys that fights for the greater good of humans. Not only for their civil/human rights as well as taking into account what I was up against personally with a child that has disabilities. She does truly care about seeing Justice in a system that is broken. After the sentencing of my guilty vetdict she spoke with me for quite some time. I believe in my heart that she proved the school district to lack accountability and resources for parents of children with disabilities. I left today knowing that this town is not able to own their lack of responsibility on their end even moreso than I had already been aware of throughout our time fighting to get help from a District that cares more about monetary value than they do a child's well being and education. I would refer McKenzie and trust her with another case if I ever had to be represented again. It is not just a job for her but a passion that radiates from her soul. I wish everyone at this office the best and would like to say that in my eyes we had a win today. We did prove beyond a reasonable doubt of all the efforts that have been used by this single mom/dad. Unfortunately, Mills county is more about money than they are helping families that do not meet their socio economic expectations.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Anastacia suggs
Joe is hands-down Council Bluffs number one attorney in my opinion. Joe went above and beyond any expectations I had of my case,
even though I was very anxious I just sat tight and let him do his job and he definitely came through for me and my children would Definitely recommend him for a federal attorney.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Ken goltl
I can not tell you the relief I had in having Kristina being my voice in this difficult time. She was the voice of reason in a very emotional time and directed me down the right path. I would recommend her always.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Maggie kalin
Kristina was super professional and my husband and I really enjoyed working with her. 10/10 recommend.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Caiden
06 Sep, 2024 by Marksberry mike
Ran a very tight ship, left leaving happy and got more than I was originally intended to get.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Christina freeman
k e i t Law Firmit's a place you want to represent youBrian is very nice and he helped me out a great deal his whole office is very pleasant to talk to and reassuringBrian always made sure I understood what it was we were talking about so if you need a good lawyer for workman's compcall Brian Keitto represent you will beglad you did
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26 Nov, 2024 by Cody wilson
Such great reviews yet when I call I get the run around and then never get a call back. Might want to change that up guys. People need good legal service so if your what your reviews say you are. Might want to start taking calls
EDIT: LOL they get a email about a bad review then call and before he wanted to talk about my case Waytt tried to get upset about my honest review. Kinda that a missed call or something of that nature doesn't get a call but a bad review does. This companies ego is way to big to help people that need timely answers.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Gregory
Jake Petes was extremely rude to my wife over the phone. He did not let her finish explaining the situation. He also cut her off mid sentence. Treated her like a kid.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Thomas skradski
Jordan Glaser and Peter‘s law wears professional as I could’ve expected from any company did a wonderful job. We’re very tactful in their approach and one my case I couldn’t be happier thank you very much.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Hull porter trailers
I retained Mike twice over the last 20 some years To represent me in two divorces. I actually settled the first divorce in my deposition with my ex-wife. Which was impressed by, But in retrospect, I never got to see him work a divorce. 17 years go by. My third wife decided that she liked girls better…. But it was ugly. And when it got ugly, I begin to feel like Micheal and interrogating me more than representing me. After nearly 2 years of retainer (Which I will say was minuscule), But I was forced to hire a new council.
And then I found out from my new law firm that it only took 10 minutes on the telephone to get my soon to be ex-wife Attorney to agree that the prenup we signed was valid!!!
I love Mike. But he’s in his 70s and he likes playing poker and talking… If you need something done, I’m Not sure that he would be the guy to aggressively defend you. Forgive me, Mike. I just felt like I needed to tell the story.
I wish you all luck and whatever legal battle you have… But honestly, If I could go back, I would’ve heard my ex-wife Attorney!! Amie Galner Literally came at me so hard she almost got a judicial review!!!
I told Mike if I ever needed to hire somebody to tear someone’s you know what’s off…. I would hire her hands down!! She’s aggressive and vicious. And as her former opponent, I have to applaud her!!!
Even though she did trash my reputation as much as she could… But I’ve been my ex-wife. I would love to watch that as well.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Robert inman
I want to Mr. Wenters for an incident at Mercy hospital. I called him every single month twice a month, asking them how everything was going. He said that he's doing what it can and I guess we have to sue them he said and that was in February.
Anyways, to make a long story short. 2 weeks ago I called him and said. How's everything going? He said we waited too long over 2 years. There's nothing he can do. Avoid this law firm at all cost.
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24 Aug, 2024 by J
Best attorney he got my 2 felony dropped to a 1 misdemeanor would highly recommend mike he knows his stuff
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25 Oct, 2024 by Jjg
In late January of 2024, I retained Tricia as my attorney to represent me in multifaceted case after having lost confidence in my previous attorney. Tricia and Emily immediately got to work on my case and from there my situation begin improving bit by bit in a consistent manner. I was treated with compassion, understanding, and at times patience, while simultaneously being represented in an ethical, honest, and when needed, aggressive manner throughout my case. Tricia responds to communication in a timely and concise manner, and does not leave you feeling out in the cold during your time(s) of need. Tricia will also actively work for you in a manner that is meant to save on billable hours. She did not operate in a way that would encourage behavior or unnecessary communication that would cost, me the client, more money than I had to spend to navigate the complexities of the legal system. You can feel confident that you are in good hands at Southwest Iowa Law Office.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Tara davis
Called to just get pointed in the right direction and her receptionist was rude and disrespectful I just hung up. Like really so now ik your reviews was staged.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Tonya
My experience from the beginning to the end was beyond positive. The secretary that took my phone call was incredibly helpful and empathetic to my situation. My attorney, McKenzie was diligent about responding to me within a timely fashion along with my concerns while listening to my questions and answering them. She put forth 150% effort to represent myself against Mills County School District. I truly believe that she is one of the attorneys that fights for the greater good of humans. Not only for their civil/human rights as well as taking into account what I was up against personally with a child that has disabilities. She does truly care about seeing Justice in a system that is broken. After the sentencing of my guilty vetdict she spoke with me for quite some time. I believe in my heart that she proved the school district to lack accountability and resources for parents of children with disabilities. I left today knowing that this town is not able to own their lack of responsibility on their end even moreso than I had already been aware of throughout our time fighting to get help from a District that cares more about monetary value than they do a child's well being and education. I would refer McKenzie and trust her with another case if I ever had to be represented again. It is not just a job for her but a passion that radiates from her soul. I wish everyone at this office the best and would like to say that in my eyes we had a win today. We did prove beyond a reasonable doubt of all the efforts that have been used by this single mom/dad. Unfortunately, Mills county is more about money than they are helping families that do not meet their socio economic expectations.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Jjg
In late January of 2024, I retained Tricia as my attorney to represent me in multifaceted case after having lost confidence in my previous attorney. Tricia and Emily immediately got to work on my case and from there my situation begin improving bit by bit in a consistent manner. I was treated with compassion, understanding, and at times patience, while simultaneously being represented in an ethical, honest, and when needed, aggressive manner throughout my case. Tricia responds to communication in a timely and concise manner, and does not leave you feeling out in the cold during your time(s) of need. Tricia will also actively work for you in a manner that is meant to save on billable hours. She did not operate in a way that would encourage behavior or unnecessary communication that would cost, me the client, more money than I had to spend to navigate the complexities of the legal system. You can feel confident that you are in good hands at Southwest Iowa Law Office.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Tara davis
Called to just get pointed in the right direction and her receptionist was rude and disrespectful I just hung up. Like really so now ik your reviews was staged.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Tonya
My experience from the beginning to the end was beyond positive. The secretary that took my phone call was incredibly helpful and empathetic to my situation. My attorney, McKenzie was diligent about responding to me within a timely fashion along with my concerns while listening to my questions and answering them. She put forth 150% effort to represent myself against Mills County School District. I truly believe that she is one of the attorneys that fights for the greater good of humans. Not only for their civil/human rights as well as taking into account what I was up against personally with a child that has disabilities. She does truly care about seeing Justice in a system that is broken. After the sentencing of my guilty vetdict she spoke with me for quite some time. I believe in my heart that she proved the school district to lack accountability and resources for parents of children with disabilities. I left today knowing that this town is not able to own their lack of responsibility on their end even moreso than I had already been aware of throughout our time fighting to get help from a District that cares more about monetary value than they do a child's well being and education. I would refer McKenzie and trust her with another case if I ever had to be represented again. It is not just a job for her but a passion that radiates from her soul. I wish everyone at this office the best and would like to say that in my eyes we had a win today. We did prove beyond a reasonable doubt of all the efforts that have been used by this single mom/dad. Unfortunately, Mills county is more about money than they are helping families that do not meet their socio economic expectations.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Gavin nichols
I never imagined I could be able to do this. For the past year Kyle has fought tooth and nail for me and delivered results better than I could have ever asked for. Truly the best attorney out there.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Jared albers
Amanda helped me navigate my divorce. She did a great job and brought it to a quick resolution.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Jim davis
Kyle did a great job and was very helpful.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Michelle kuhl
Very helpful
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19 Mar, 2023 by Iconic jordan
Handled my divorce in a fast and timely matter.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Megan prater
29 Dec, 2024 by Nick jones
Don’t ever use this law firm all the will do is help you lose the children.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Wolfvindicated
I can’t speak on everyone at this law firm, but I cannot in good conscience recommend Keith Buzzard as a lawyer to anyone. My experience with him has been an absolute nightmare.
Keith has greatly neglected my case. He always says he will do xyz in ___ amount of time, (without even being prompted to give a timeframe) then he never does. Instead he will take weeks or even months longer than he says he will. This led to me having to call frequently to see when he was finally going to do what he’d say he would, which I’m sure was by design since they charge you $225 per phone call and he won’t answer emails… Yet, he wouldn’t call back when I’d leave voicemails either, so I learned his schedule real quick because I refuse to be ignored.
He didn’t advocate for me at all when it came to getting alimony (even though I was a stay at home mom at the time of divorce), getting assets in my name (so I lost 2/3 vehicles we had and the one I have isn’t even in my name so I can’t sell it), nor for better child support (please tell me how $240 a month is enough for 3 children in this economy when our incomes are so different)… Pretty sure he didn’t believe me when I told him I was leaving an abusive situation and was terrified…
I ended up homeless and in a hotel for awhile and faced constant fear of living on the streets for a year and a half… I asked for him to help me get full custody of my youngest until she was done breastfeeding since she was only 8 months old. He didn’t even bring up the topic in court. So I had to give up breastfeeding and listen to my daughter scream cry for me when I’d give her to her dad.
I filed some motions on my own but they’d get denied because it wasn’t from my lawyer… So I’d fill them out then make him file, and once he “filed incorrectly” then waited until after the weekend to fix it even though he said he’d fix it right away…
I had to remind him to put my name change in the final divorce decree, as well as to give my ex a time limit for when I could receive the divorce money. It’s a good thing I did too, or I’d have been totally screwed because my ex took MONTHS after his time limit was up… and Keith didn’t want to file for contempt (so I filled out the paperwork myself). The whole time it felt like Keith was advocating more for my ex than me.
The only reason I was able to get the money for Keith is because my grandpa gave me some of my inheritance money and he told me to get a good lawyer. I feel like I failed him by wasting money on this lawyer. My parents recommended I report him to the board for neglect on my case and I definitely will.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Joanne baron
Tim Jeffrey was absolutely great in helping us get through one of the most difficult times of our lives. I would highly recommend him for any of your legal issues. He is a competent, knowledgeable and skilled attorney. Thank you, Tim.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Cheryl beuterbaugh
I give him 0 stars as he did not fulfill his duties as my estate attorney he did not clarify what he needed I could not read his handwriting I would never use him again
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30 Nov, 2023 by Edward swanson
14 Nov, 2023 by Deborah james
Always gets back to me.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Poor attorney. Do yourself a favor, hire someone who actually cares. He talks as if he knows the law but doesn't completely or maybe he just didn't like me. Either way. Unprofessional. Do not hire him for a divorce case. He sided with my ex. I should have gotten a better settlement. Mike provide no guidance. My friends provided more information than he did. His memory is failing him. He couldn't remember what was said or done. He talked bad about me to my ex's attorney. Game player for sure. Don't waste your money. If I could give him no stars, I would.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Mary
Mr. Winters was totally honest with us about the case. Due to his hard work he was able to work out a deal that was do able for time. It could of been extremely way worse.
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08 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mike is the best lawyer around.He fights for parents rights.Takes your case seriously.Goes above and beyond. Very Professional and worth every cent. Highly recommended.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Cheryl beuterbaugh
I give him 0 stars as he did not fulfill his duties as my estate attorney he did not clarify what he needed I could not read his handwriting I would never use him again
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30 Nov, 2023 by Edward swanson
14 Nov, 2023 by Deborah james
Always gets back to me.
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04 Mar, 2022 by Luetta
He is the best in council Bluffs Ia he will go to the end of the rope for you.
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29 Sep, 2021 by Peggy
He was the best attorney I had ever seen or known. Dont know why his license was suspended but give it back. We need him with the crooked lawyers around here fabricating evidence and sentencing innocent people to prison.
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04 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
My mother had this lawyer and he got her of 6 different charges but one of them. And i am so thankfull for him helping my mother thanks agian for evry thing u did to help my mother.
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13 May, 2022 by Nick
He didn't communicate with me my entire trial. Never reached out to me. Not even once, even when I left voicemail, emails ect. I told him the day of my trial I wanted to use a deferred judgment. He did not do so. Now I have that on my record for a simple accident. DO NOT RECOMMEND!!!!!!
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19 Apr, 2013 by Michael p kraft
I didn't expect a public defender that would actualy work for me like Thomas did . I assumed since they were state provided they worked for the system . Thomas was able to help prove that the prosecutors case had more holes then swiss cheese and I eneded up leading to a lessor charge.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Faith
Amanda was hired for a couple diffrent cases,she did a great job. Then was representing on my behalf in a car accident claim. The woman had ran a stop sign hit my father and I caused damage. I lost my job of 8 years due to injury. Had multiple surveys 75,000 in medical bills. Suffering from a brain injury i lost my home, job,kids,unable to preform daily task like I normally would. I left everything in her hands thinking under oath she would have my best intrest. She copied my signature from another document that I did not consent to. When I confronted her about it she became very defensive and started to use my disability against me. Things took a turn from there as I spoke my TRUTH and concerns given to me as a RIGHT and to not be used against me WRITTIN in the CONSTITUTION. I then told her that my concerns were valid and if from that moment forward if I had any questions about her character and contract I would have to kindly let her go off of my case and find new representation that has my best intrest and my rights will not be violated. She got very aggravated and began to say with an attitude on speaker phone with witnesses on my end. That my feeling arnt validated because my judgement is off due to my TBI TRAMATIC BRAIN INJURY my family then took over on my behalf that what she was saying was cruel and inaccurate. She began to ask them if they was my new representation. They stated no . I then received a letter in the mail saying that she had dropped my case 2 months before Trial knowing the statue of limitations would be in full effect I didn't have the knowledge in due time to represent self. She put a 20,000 lien on me and put something into the system so I could not find any other counsel due to conflict of interest even out of town lawyers wanted to help me but couldn't violate whatever she had put in. When I had went to court against the other party I showed up alone unable to proceed because I didn't have a lawyer. My case was thrown out and the 1 million she promised me by Christmas was no longer. My pain and suffering wasn't enough from the accident or losing my father,house,kids,job,unable to do daily activities owning almost 100,000 in medical bills now having a 20,000 lien on me from her, not able to proceed with my case or being compensated for what I was owed. All because I stood up for my Constitutional Rights that she[ without a doubt violated] I ask that you think twice before hiring her or the firm behind her. We hire someone out of good faith in what they tell us not ever thinking this will be the devastating outcome. Look into who your hiring and who they say they are and who they actually are and they match. By the universal law every cause has an effect it has changed me for the better inside on the material I have nothing. I will stand true to my character always because of this. Lesson learned. Everything has a consequence so my wish is to help others avoid this if possible. Thank you! Sovereign
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04 Apr, 2024 by Tim olechoski
Dean talked a big game but did absolutely nothing. Sent incomplete paperwork. Straight lied right to my face.
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21 Aug, 2021 by Winter nichols
Will always use him so caring and very helpful will always recommend him to anyone who asks was really there for us when 7 other lawyers wouldn't... truly appreciate his help and wisdom thank you
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08 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Mrs. Roberta Megel was my appointed public defender in CINA case. She disregarded the false accusations/statements and all the evidence I presented her. She entered exhibits that hurt my case instead of help my case. This case should have been dismissed months ago, but not one piece of actually evidence has been shown/filed with the courts. Mr. Megel has destroyed my family along with the corrupt family system. She is there for the money because it doesn't matter if she wins or loses your case. She'll still get paid. She only received a star because it was required for posting, otherwise she wouldn't have received it at all.
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FAQs
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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:
-
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.
