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28 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
My friend has been incarcerated since June and it is now a few 3 days away from November and she has not been to meet him. I called and left a message ask when I could expect a call back and was told she returns calls to non clients on Thursday and if she gets to me I'll get a call if not maybe thefollowing Thursday. I explained that's not an acceptable answer because he has had several court dates which she reset.
I was then called back and told he had court the following day and he would be pulled out and that I could go as well and speak to her in person.
The next day he was pulled out I was there but NO ATTORNEY. A COMPLETE WAIST OF TIME. I FELT LIKE I WAS BEING PRANKED.
I STILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CALL BACK.
THIS MANS FUTURE IS IN HER HANDS AND THAT NOT ONLY SCARY BUT SAD.
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17 Nov, 2020 by Cody
Working with Alison was great from start to finish. She was always ready to answer any and all of my questions, and she had a way of explaining the legal world in in a way that eased my doubts and worries.
She worked very hard on my case and ultimately made the difference for me going forward and I'd recommend her and her expertise to anyone I know.
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13 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Alison is a great attorney, I retained her 4/2018
She has done an outstanding job on my federal aswell as my state case, she is very, determined, self motivated, and loyal
I’m truly grateful God sent her to me
#AlisonGrinterAllen
#DFWAttorney
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23 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired him as my immigration lawyer back in 2015. I didn't live in same state as him at that time.
He asked $2,500 first before he worked with my case. I paid him that amount.
Then,he asked me to transfer all of my documents to him. I did what he told me.
We didn't really talk much, I spoke with several different person that he said were his assistants. In different occasion, his assistants asked me stuffs related my immigration case.
Then, when I asked if they filed my case, they just said, they were going to file, but unfortunately they never filed my case. One time, they just took pictures of my documents which they made look like they were going to file because I saw the ATTN: Immigration Judge.
I wasn't stupid, I checked the immigration office, I was right, they never filed my case.
So, I told Mr.T. Christoper Lewis to refund my money back,$2,500 that I already paid. I asked him through phone, email, and sent a letter. He said because he already worked for my case, because of his time and energy, he can't refund all of my money. So, he only refunded $500.
I was very disappointed at him, I paid $2,000 for nothing, all he and his assistants did were just playing a drama and made it look like they worked with my case, but they never filed my case to immigration court.
Be careful with him! He's not a good immigration lawyer to work with, and I don't want any of u have to be in the same path like me.
Good thing, I followed my instinct, and as soon as I found out that he's a liar, I changed my lawyer and hired the best one.
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04 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
T. Christopher Lewis handled a reinstatement in a county who had a judge that wasn't known to do reinstatements. But Mr. Lewis was able to get that done and I am forever grateful. I trust him with any legal matter and know that he'll always give his 100% best. I recommend him to anyone in need of legal justice.
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17 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Lewis really went all out on my case- and I appreciate his staff for staying late to answer my questions!
My final check was more than I thought possible- good work!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Joshua ross
I paid them $200 to take care of a speeding ticket I received in Dallas county last year. Lawyer told me that he would get it taken care of and notify me of anything. I waited a month and called him again when I didn't hear from him. He told me not to worry and that he's taking care of it. Here it is a year later and the DPS has sent me a letter saying I have an unpaid ticket and I am now unable to renew my license. Now they won't forward my calls to the lawyer and keep blowing me off saying "we'll get back with you soon". They can't even at least get me a refund. I can't recommend anyone to use this lawyer for anything other than throwing away your money and time.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Melissa pierce
Very great company very responsive and willing to help love the professional and helping with every step of the way thanks again
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mike lopez
The best Lawyer in Texas. Anything you need he is there for you. Don’t hesitate to call!! My whole family can always count on him 🙏.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Ivan mendoza
08 Feb, 2024 by Fil lorinc
07 Nov, 2023 by Samir haračić
09 Nov, 2024 by Julius hernandez
06 May, 2024 by Joshua solis
These guys told me I didn’t have to show up to a court hearing and I got a warrant for my arrest as a result
You’d think the lawyers you hired would know enough to tell you what you do and don’t need to do
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05 May, 2024 by Suenita thomas
You couldn’t have a better firm representing you - Mario is THAT lawyer! He knows the law and he knows it well. He’s all in, all the time. Every moment matters. Every detail matters. No second he invests in your case is wasted. He acts with unstoppable urgency when needed. In court, he grabs your attention with intensity and purpose. His litigation presence will pierce your soul. It’s rare and trust me, it cannot be replicated. I couldn’t ask for a better legal team - Mario, Mona and Lisset
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03 Mar, 2025 by Marlenee zavala
They did a great amazing good job and I highly truly recommend them and I just want to say thank you to them for everything and I really appreciate them for everything and I highly recommend them and I appreciate them ❣️❣️💓💓😇😇
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19 Feb, 2025 by Freddy romano
Muy bueno servicios. Mi compensación fue más de lo que esperaba . Bien recomendado.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Antonio salazar
Excelente trabajo realmente fue muy rápido pensé que sería en 1 año o algo así y solo me tomo 3 meses para ver mi caso ganado
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03 Mar, 2025 by Marlenee zavala
They did a great amazing good job and I highly truly recommend them and I just want to say thank you to them for everything and I really appreciate them for everything and I highly recommend them and I appreciate them ❣️❣️💓💓😇😇
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19 Feb, 2025 by Freddy romano
Muy bueno servicios. Mi compensación fue más de lo que esperaba . Bien recomendado.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Antonio salazar
Excelente trabajo realmente fue muy rápido pensé que sería en 1 año o algo así y solo me tomo 3 meses para ver mi caso ganado
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27 Sep, 2019 by Jj
Do not hire this lawyer especially for immigration issues. The process is already stressful enough then add an inefficient lawyer to the process. A complete nightmare. I absolutely regret hiring ms rita. She never returns calls or updates you on the process. Instead she shouts and argues with her clients. They dont pick or return office calls and what is supposed to take one day ends up taking months.
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20 Jul, 2018 by Uchenna
She is an excellent attorney with a kind heart and extra ordinary
patience. She got my case dismissed,after advising me on legal process to follow which I did. She handled my case with extreme panache. She's a good attorney to have any time and I highly recommend her!
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17 Feb, 2017 by Ebony
Ms rita is a good attorney my case took 3 years but i still won my case january 31st 2017 thats all that mattered to me.she gave me some time to pay my money because shes a understanding person.she work hard to reach her goal but i had to make sure i do my part as well.thank you ms rita.
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16 Jan, 2025 by T n
Casey Erick was a great help and straight shooter. Highly recommended!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Cathy
Tony Barbieri is very professional and gets the job done right!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Ryan wright
I have used this firm numerous and have been very happy with the results. Bryon Romine and Joe Collins have been great.
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16 Jan, 2025 by T n
Casey Erick was a great help and straight shooter. Highly recommended!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Cathy
Tony Barbieri is very professional and gets the job done right!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Ryan wright
I have used this firm numerous and have been very happy with the results. Bryon Romine and Joe Collins have been great.
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16 Jan, 2025 by T n
Casey Erick was a great help and straight shooter. Highly recommended!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Cathy
Tony Barbieri is very professional and gets the job done right!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Ryan wright
I have used this firm numerous and have been very happy with the results. Bryon Romine and Joe Collins have been great.
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02 Dec, 2024 by M miller
Clint Broden was recommended by a family friend who practices patent law. Our family member was charged in Washington DC which required a criminal lawyer who could try a federal case.
Clint filed motions for dismissal and was successful in having two charges dismissed before trial. One of them carried a 20-year maximum sentence. Our relationship with Clint and his law firm has lasted almost 4 years on this same case. He has promptly answered emails, text messages, and phone calls. We have had face to face meetings in his office when appropriate. His office staff has been professional and helpful.
This case was complicated and historically unprecedented. Clint faced the unlimited resources of the US government in a highly politicized trial in DC. He gave our family good legal advice and spelled out our options at each twist and turn in this almost four-year journey. I would highly recommend his legal counsel.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Ryan pombo
Really amazing work! Clint really came through, he came in and took charge, he really put me at ease and helped me through a difficult time. Truly a standup place, if you need help give them a call, they are the exact people you want on your side.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Ronald billups
I have a 922 g1 an a 924 a 2 gun charge but I am scared to appeal my case because of a unrelated drug case that I am supposed to be apart in which I know nothing about what can I do
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22 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Jeremy was referred to me for my divorce case, but I regret hiring him. Once he realized I was more interested in settling things rather than pursuing litigation he completely ignored me. He would not respond to my calls, emails or texts for 3 months to get status of my case and rudely told me to respect his time. He missed a few court deadlines and I had to scramble to get a new attorney at the last minute. He is very unprofessional and rude, and even now won't respond to my new attorneys attempts to get my client file to move on with my case.
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06 May, 2022 by Erik
I spoke with Jeremy via text, he was in my phone as a lawyer and i was going through a child custody battle. At first everything seem good. He spoke a good game initially, so i hired him as it seems he was legitimate of getting things accomplished that i wanted for my case. Shortly after we filed a motion to take my ex to court i never heard from him. The day before we had court he called and wanted to go over the case that we was facing the next day, it was 1 am in the morning and i was disgusted as i wanted to go over the case much sooner as i like to be prepared for things, especially, dealing with a professional situation. Anyway, Jermey didnt come prepared and wasted a good two hours of court asking questions that had nothing to do with case. We lost the trial but it wasnt that bad as i still had my kids. I was advised by Jeremy to do something that backfired on me tremendously, and this dude didnt care one bit. The ex filed a counter and was able to come in and take my children from me without any evidence whatsoever, he didnt appeal or challenge anything. Keep in mind i only hired him to get more times with my children and with his advice, the children was taken from me. Afte this debacle i was furious with him and wanted to go in different direction and he stated that he wanted to do everything "pro bono," so i kept him on my team but that was a bad decision as the case moving forward this dude wouldn't give me updates on case status, how we should proceed forward, or when the next court date will be to see my children. To make a long story short he ruined my life with my children and i was failed by the justice department tremendously all due to his guidance. The courts took my children and i have not still seen them, and after him telling me that he wants to do everything "pro bono," he disappeared after i paid this dude several thousands of dollars just to get more time with my kids. at one point when i would ask him status of my case he told me i had to pay him more money and that i was acting childish. Also, you should know he is always on vacation so you better believe he is not investing a lot of time in your cases. He is all about money and losing. He doesn't care about the people he represents all he care about is his hair, his kids, and the fact he was on some loser show called bachelor. I would've never hired him if i known he was a tv lawyer as they don't know anything about law.
Jeremy feel entitled as he thinks he's some super famous lawyer that we must bow down to and keep giving him dollars as we ALL owe him something. We lost every time we went to court. So i fired him asap as he is accustomed of losing and taking people cash. It doesn't hurt him he lost, he really won as we the fools that keep paying him. So i would never hire this joker of a lawyer. he is a joke. Trust me.....he will lose your case and put you in a worse situation than when you started. Run the other way when you see this guy!!
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23 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Our legal system is usually very fair but it is confusing and you need someone like Jeremy who can help you navigate through it. Jeremy is one of the smartest people I have ever met and will help you do just that; navigate through our complicated system. Jeremy is also very compassionate and just has a calm confidence about him that is very reassuring. He communicates so well and never gets rattled. I strongly recommend him for your legal needs.
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30 May, 2023 by Anonymous
If you choose Chris Hoover, you’ll will get terrible results—I guarantee it. He will overcharge you and not care about your case. He constantly boasts on his ability however the results never confirm his “expertise”. You will quickly realize once he has your money he has deceived you. Please take this as a warning and read other reviews about him. And avoid at all costs.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I thought long and hard for sometime before writing this review, but I think its best for people to know my experience. I hired Mr. Hoover with a recommendation from another person. He is a very expensive attorney about double most attorneys in DFW area. He did represent me but seems like day one we were not on the same page. One of the biggest complaints I have about him and his legal assistant THERE IS NO COMMUNICATION after many many emails and voice mails to his firm - NO RESPONSE - crickets ??!! Very Very rarely will Chris or Paula ever get back to via email or a phone call. You never know what is going on in your case and you get very frustrated trying to get an update to what's gong on with your case. But they will contact you immediately when a bill needs to be paid asap ! Save yourself the money and headache, there are plenty of good attorneys in Dallas for half the the price of Christopher's Hoover firm charges you $$$$, that do a great job. I have since hired another attorney that is absolutely WONDERFUL and a great firm - WOW was I impressed with my new attorney firm (who was also recommended to me) -- night and day from Hoover law firm. Really makes you wonder what kind of service you get or really DONT get after you pay him. Like one of the reviewers said below run as fast as you can before spending your life saving $$$$ at Hoover Law firm !!!
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19 Jul, 2019 by Jonathan
From the outset of our consultation Chris was extremely transparent regarding costs and potential results regarding my situation. I was in a bad situation while in school in another state and he was able to get my probation transferred from Texas out-of-state so that my studies weren’t disrupted. He handled paperwork and court appearances for me and is getting my order of discharge all without me having to travel back home. Great results produced from terrible circumstances. Highly recommend him as an attorney.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Rosa barajas
28 Feb, 2025 by Juan reyes
Muy mala experiencia,solo me sacaron dinero y no me ayudaron,quedaron de devolverme la llamada y sigo esperando 👎🏻 busquen otra opcion
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28 Feb, 2025 by Juan cornejo
Muy amable la señorita que me atendió, Vanesa, muy profesional al explicar cada detalle,
Le doy 5 estrellas por su capacidad y profesionalismo,me inspiró confianza y seguridad
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28 Feb, 2025 by Rosa barajas
28 Feb, 2025 by Juan reyes
Muy mala experiencia,solo me sacaron dinero y no me ayudaron,quedaron de devolverme la llamada y sigo esperando 👎🏻 busquen otra opcion
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28 Feb, 2025 by Juan cornejo
Muy amable la señorita que me atendió, Vanesa, muy profesional al explicar cada detalle,
Le doy 5 estrellas por su capacidad y profesionalismo,me inspiró confianza y seguridad
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28 Feb, 2025 by Rosa barajas
28 Feb, 2025 by Juan reyes
Muy mala experiencia,solo me sacaron dinero y no me ayudaron,quedaron de devolverme la llamada y sigo esperando 👎🏻 busquen otra opcion
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28 Feb, 2025 by Juan cornejo
Muy amable la señorita que me atendió, Vanesa, muy profesional al explicar cada detalle,
Le doy 5 estrellas por su capacidad y profesionalismo,me inspiró confianza y seguridad
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27 Feb, 2025 by Brooke martine
My husband requested help and this company said they do not do payment plans , they would not work with him to give him a payment plan. Charged 250$ to take the case 1500$ to take ticket from the city court to the county court. Then charged 2590 $ that they will not agree to a payment. Spent a lot of money in this company and they refused to help. Kept saying it’s one lawyer, then 2 weeks later a different lawyer name and now the 3rd time the name of the lawyer changed. The case was tossed around to different people and cares more about making money of cdl drivers rather than helping.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Demetrius rodriguez
Had a ticket from 2007 I got while in Texas. Never took care of it because I live in another state and had moved several times. Finally decided to take care of it and Tkach was able to get all charges dismissed. I would highly recommend this firm. Thank you for taking care of this for me.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Guests
Brothers and Sisters, a good attorney here! That's all I'm going to say. ~Tonia R.
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08 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
tengan mucho cuidado con este abogado me robo 3.000 nuca iso nada en mi caso dijo que iba aver a mi esposo en la carcel pero cuando le diera el dinero se iba enpesar a mover y nuca fue a ver a mi esposo . fue puras mentiras . la secretaria fue muy grosera con nosotros nuca no quiso dar information del caso . asta que deportaron a mi esposo por lo mismo por que nuca se presento el abogado
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08 Feb, 2017 by Meagan
This so called lawyer does not even speak to the people who pay good money.
I and my husband went to this man for a estimate on his services, my brother in law had been arrested a night before for bad plates on his truck, when the cop pulled him out of the car he found a small pipe on him, so took him to jail for having drugs.
We were in the car the next morning racing from Austin to Dallas trying to find a good lawyer. In a quick decision we got to Mr.Larrea office. We had already read the bad reviews on his assistant but continued because of the good things we saw he supposedly did for others. We never saw the Lawyer only the assistant from the start, we had a quick session with her and this is when she requested 3500 dollars for her lawyers services my husband talked her down to 2700 which she took quickly. That day the lawyer went and spoke with my brother in law and informed him that he was his lawyer from that day on my brother never saw him again.
We continued to contact the assistant but she would not respond to our calls or texts. My brother in law was DEPORTED the dang lawyer AND his assistant took our money and just let this happen. Im not gaining anything from this, i probably wont even receive my hard working money back. I just really don't want this to happen to any one else, especially the hard working Latinos who pay this man to fight for there loved ones and does nothing in return. MY MONEY WAS STOLEN DON'T LET THIS MAN OR MAYBE WOMEN DO THIS TO YOU FIND SOMEONE WHO ACTUALLY HAS A BRAIN!!!
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03 Apr, 2016 by Ramon sandoval
Yo tengo un problema con segundo dwi y pues emigrasion me agarro cuando llo estaba en probacion mire más abogados y pues no me daban Muchas posibilidades de que pararán mi deportacion y el abogado faustino Larrea me a ayudado mucho en mi caso y pues me sigue ayudando y les recomiendo mucho al abogado faustino Larrea por todo lo que me a ayudado grasias Faustino Larrea
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21 Dec, 2024 by Thomacenia young
08 Nov, 2024 by Andy searcy
07 Nov, 2024 by Diane umphrey-kolterer
14 Oct, 2024 by Audrey busby
03 Jul, 2024 by Amazonfinds
what waste of time and money
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09 Mar, 2024 by Starseed
14 Oct, 2024 by Audrey busby
03 Jul, 2024 by Amazonfinds
what waste of time and money
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09 Mar, 2024 by Starseed
21 Apr, 2022 by Richard salsman
12 Oct, 2020 by William washington
Very satisfying and efficient
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08 Jun, 2020 by Bubba macc
21 Apr, 2022 by Richard salsman
12 Oct, 2020 by William washington
Very satisfying and efficient
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08 Jun, 2020 by Bubba macc
09 May, 2022 by Valerie caviness
03 Dec, 2021 by Chuck
03 Aug, 2020 by Roberto escorcia
05 Jun, 2018 by Doug
I have hired Mr. Farr on two separate occasions to take care of legal issues with regard to my business. I found Mr. Farr to be honest, hard working and an great resource of legal advice. His fees were reasonable and fair. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs legal support.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Matthew
I’ve known Herb personally for almost 10 years but only have needed the services of a lawyer once in that time. A driver ran a red light totalling my truck and putting me in the hospital. It was me of the worst days of my life. Herb kept in constant contact with me letting me know what was going on every step of the way. It was such a relief to have someone with the experience of dealing with insurance companies on my side.i was very satisfied with his handling of my case and of course the results. Thanks Herb.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Herb has over the years handled complex building matters, my mothers and sisters estate each time with compentace,timely and his advice made the difference. I recommend to friends,family and clients and always get nothing but thank you for the referral. Thanks herb for the advice and help
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16 Jan, 2025 by Pedro ortega
If you want someone that won’t defend you properly or be prepared for your case go ahead and hire this guy. My brother is serving 60 years because of him. Didn’t prepare him for the case. Didn’t cross examine the witnesses well enough. Gave my brother a positive outlook on the case, as if things were going his way, but weren’t. Should have advised a plea deal after knowing how poorly he was defending him.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Tommy brooks
Angela is amazing! She made acquiring our trademark easy! She was thorough and handled everything with very little involvement from me! She’s definitely a pro!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Mehdi tihani
Angela was extremely helpful, showcasing her deep knowledge and quick responsiveness. Friends in the marketing industry have spoken highly of her, and I can now see why. She really knows her stuff. I highly recommend working with Angela!
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07 Dec, 2024 by Bertina green
I was unfortunately face with a legal situation and Kelvin Roquemore not only gave me very helpful information he saved me from a costly court case. This law firm goes the extra mile to help and really cares!!! If you find yourself in a situation Roquemore Skierski is the number to call. Hands down the best legal advice.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Ali alrefae
I highly recommend Attorney Mr. Kelvin for his outstanding work in drafting and preparing our sales agreement. His attention to detail and ability to clearly communicate complex legal terms made the entire process smooth and stress-free. If you're looking for a skilled attorney for legal documents, Mr. Kelvin is an excellent choice. Thank you for your exceptional service!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Kevin diomampo
Kelvin genuinely took the time to listen and provide valuable insights. He went above and beyond to help me prepare for an upcoming deposition. His advice was sharp, practical, and incredibly helpful, making me feel much more confident about the process.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Gregory schneck
My Colombian wife and I are extremely happy with the performance and results we received working with the James Vasilas law firm, and specifically, Michelle Mingle. Other than information we had to provide, they did everything. We even had a crisis in which my wife needed an emergency authorization to travel to Colombia and return to the USA. They obtained that for us too. They were extremely responsive to our calls and emails. I started the process with another firm that I initially funded, and was not impressed. The Vasilas firm was recommended to us by another, top notch attorney, so we switched, and have zero regrets. They are very professional, responsive, and get it done!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Pedro fransisco
I encountered a great experience & got my case dismissed. Jessica is a great highly recommended attorney.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Fernando varela
10 Dec, 2024 by Gregory schneck
My Colombian wife and I are extremely happy with the performance and results we received working with the James Vasilas law firm, and specifically, Michelle Mingle. Other than information we had to provide, they did everything. We even had a crisis in which my wife needed an emergency authorization to travel to Colombia and return to the USA. They obtained that for us too. They were extremely responsive to our calls and emails. I started the process with another firm that I initially funded, and was not impressed. The Vasilas firm was recommended to us by another, top notch attorney, so we switched, and have zero regrets. They are very professional, responsive, and get it done!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Pedro fransisco
I encountered a great experience & got my case dismissed. Jessica is a great highly recommended attorney.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Fernando varela
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
