Lawyers map
>1.3k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
25 Jun, 2024 by Lauren devries
13 Sep, 2023 by Itz dasha
01 Sep, 2023 by Blanca escobar
08 Aug, 2024 by David sweazer
I read the reviews and maybe that’s there experience. I’ve sent a few clients to you and you helped them including my relatives.
I thank U again Mr. Carpenter for locating that young man today on short notice. That’s one worry off his family’s mind since his mother is in ICU. U didn’t have to do it or offer your assistance but you did. Many attorneys didn’t assist the family but you did so for that I say THANKS SIR.
Read more
11 Jun, 2024 by Orion richardson
14 May, 2024 by Fred lewis
I Wouldn't Refer This Guy To Anyone He Had The Nerve To Call And Threatening Me I Should Report Him He Does Nothing For Your Case And Be Wanting To Get Paid Never Seen A Discovery Of My Case Never Got A Call From This Dude About My Case Only About Money He's Always Late To Court And Always Have An Excuse. PLEASE IF U VALUE YOUR FREEDOM DO NOT HIRE THIS GUY HE'S NO LAWYER MORE LIKE A CON MAN A CRUCK
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Arlen sauer
These scamming pieces of trash, continuously send me warnings, I've already contacted the city I apparently have a warrant from. No warrant. Already paid YEARS AGO! Yet they continue their scare tactics. There's a special place in hell for companies like this. Just wait when I get to actually talk to someone, whatever nonexistent god they believe in better protect them that day.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Rupert m
I received a letter from them. I got a red light camera violation in my name for someone else’s random car in a city I’ve never been to. The camera misread the license plate.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Michael vu
These people sent us a notice of delinquent property taxes when we didn't owe anything! This has to be illegal...
Read more
27 Sep, 2018 by O. o'neal
Paid money upfront, then was told to pay additional fee for polygraph which he said would help case but was only asked questions wasn't hooked up to anything. Once John Teakell received the full payment communications were all but non-existent and the case resulted in a 40 year sentence. Not happy with the service paid for, cannot recommend.
Read more
28 May, 2018 by Henry
Mr. Teakell is a miracle worker who managed to get a Felony 3 down to a Misdemeanor C. Other lawyers were content with offering us a misdemeanor A or B, but Mr. Teakell went above and beyond to get a C with 3 months unsupervised probation and deferred adjudication. He's worth every penny.
Read more
08 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I paid him upfront only to defer my case and settle with a plea. Never returned a phone call or followed up on any of the promises he made. My case could have been dismissed prior to a grand jury indictment instead he decided it best for his financial interest to have the case continue in court.
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Has an attitude like tim ohares n can get very aggressive with clients wouldn't hire her for the world
Read more
04 Feb, 2022 by Shmuel
Gina was court appointed to represent three young children.
She refused to communicate with the parents' attorneys and repeatedly held up efforts to better the situation for her clients.
Egregious behavior.
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/texas/article/dallas-couple-wrongly-accused-cps-gets-kid-back-16832248.php
Read more
19 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Miss Clark is one of the most knowledgeable attorneys working in the DFW area. She is always there when you need her and she is very happy to help.
Read more
22 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Steve Cooper is the ultimate scheister. No secretary, no bookkeeper, no paralegal. Never opened my file. Never read documents. Never prepared for court or mediation. Waits out the court timetable then pressures client to settle because you no longer have a case once he's botched it. The worst. My ex was arrested for dwi and he didn't even get the arresting officer as a witness in my custody case. By the time I got another attorney it was too late to add witnesses. He's a phony with a shingle on Gaston.
Read more
28 Sep, 2014 by Mark
The Best lawyer money can buy...I only found this out by using other attorneys. I've used Mr. Cooper since I was a kid. I'm now 42. He had both my cases in the past dismissed, potentially life changing if convicted. I regret not using him this time, I chose one locally to just make it affordable...big mistake. My apologies, but my loss...
Read more
22 Apr, 2018 by Jaime
I thank god i found mr kenneth and his awesome team ...i was at a point where i thought there was no other option for me than jail but when i hired mr kenneth he and his team explained to me what was going to happen . They relieved me from all the stress i was going thru. Up to right now they have done an exellent job dealing with not just one but with several cases in different counties. On top of all that the quote he gave me was super really good compared to all thus other attorneys i went before i found him. He also lets you work wirh him on payments and in case you are shorth he will give you the chanse to pay him what you can. If i ever get in trouble again i will with no doubt give him a call and let him fight my cases.
Read more
20 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
The entire office is rude and has a terrible lack of communication. Actually, i take that back. It's not a terrible lack of communication it's actually non-existent. They NEVER follow through with what they say they'll do, and when you are forced to follow up with them due to their negligence, they have the nerve to be rude. And yes this includes the attorney Kenneth as well!! It's as if they're bothered that clients are actually expecting them to do the job that they've been paid to do! I would never in a million years refer anyone to this attorney nor do i wish to ever cross paths with them again.
Read more
07 Feb, 2016 by Celeste
He got me out of my jumping bond situation back in 2010 and worked with me on payments.. He also got my husband out of a family violence charge in 2012, without my husband even having to show up to court, the charge was also expunged. Best investment ever, I now wish he was a family law attorney, I so would use him again.
Read more
12 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I paid this man money and he was quick for the money but my case never heard back from him all he said was still working on it or oooo I'm in el paso when I get back I'll get on it worst and guess what still haven't resolved my case he's a waste of money
Read more
03 Aug, 2022 by Thr seeker
The older caucasian receptionist who answered the phone was extremely combative and yelled at me while trying to see if I could retain this lawfirm for assistance. I felt very uncomfortable and strongly suggest finding a lawfirm that does not yell at potential clients. This receptionist needs anger management at a minimum.
Read more
13 Sep, 2020 by Loretta flores
17 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr lkenna Emeruem is a very unprofessional being, he never returns his call nor call back neither does he acknowledge his messages. The way he treat his clients especially his follow nigerian are very disrespecting and unprofessional. I paid this man to be my attorney and he never showed up on the day of my case what kind of an attorney is that, like that is not enough when I called him, he began cursing out on the phone and even dropped the call on me. This is so unprofessional.
Read more
23 Oct, 2020 by Janine
Professional, knowledgeable and affordable. Most of all returns calls promptly. Highly recommend.
Read more
03 Nov, 2022 by Donald
Mark was my attorney when he was up and coming, he totally failed as a lawyer, took money and did nothing to represent. I am surprised to see he is not disbarred
Read more
08 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Mark is great! Offers reasonable rates &e is excells in court. I have referred alot of business to him & will continue to in the future.
Read more
02 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I would NOT recommend this attorney. I had a bad experience with here and was not happy with it.
Read more
20 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
She got me custody of my child in a very stressful ordeal. Other lawyers said I couldn't win. Spent long hours late at night and on weekends on my case
Read more
02 Nov, 2019 by Jose
Ebony Turner was straight forward fast Pace educated and personal.she was always a bridge of the matters that were taking place in the case she answer my questions brief and quickly and she got me out of jail most of all she does her job and she doesn't officially she can work on my docket anytime I'm never getting back on the docket so take it easy everything God bless I know you still on my case till it's over with but thank you
Read more
02 Jul, 2013 by Cheeze
This young lady was my lawyer for 8 days! Called her 12 times would not answer or return phone call. When she called and set up appointment . She did not make appointment and called two days later to say she was no longer my lawyer and good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!
Read more
11 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
You are better off letting the court appoint an attorney or even defending yourself. This man has shows no regard for your well being. Never actually pleaded for a better outcome and was late to every court hearing. Absolute imbecile.
Read more
02 Oct, 2018 by Nick
If you are in need of a lawyer that will listen to you and more importantly defend your rights then call Ryan ASAP! He defended my case with class and confidence, strategically getting my case repudly dismissed!
Thank you for being there at my time of most need!
Read more
17 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Did not hear my side of the story and supposed to been defending me I did everything he asked every court date when he tell me not to come or leave the courthouse I've done that I reported twice a week I did all that I'm in a wheelchair with one leg I had a court day Wednesday me and him talk Wednesday Tuesday and Wednesday he even sent me a police report I'm just now getting a police report from November 26th but it's not nothing on there that I said that I'm the one call the police so if I call the police that mean they supposed to have gave me a chance to say something I was in the house A man jumped up in a piece of glass broke and scratched him on his hand or he scratched his stuck himself with that ice pick he said over there but he picked up a 40 oz bottle so I throw some plastic season is to try to knock it out his hand went back and call the police but my law you don't he I don't know he text me at 11:00 this morning and said we have court she going to issue a warrant she issued a one I'm out of town and I'll be gone for 3 weeks that's what he said now the bonding company trying to figure out why m i getting off a warrant.. he seem like he was a pretty good cool guy but I don't know what happened I'm quite sure he was real busy but I'm not trying to go to jail after I've been going through all the treat seizures and everything that he asked of me I liked him but seem like he just dropped my cage today my court date was Wednesday how did I have a court date Friday Wednesday I told him I didn't want to pay no money to take no class because he haven't even listened to my side of the story and we've been dealing with this for 6 months. He done told me at least three times oh you don't need to come you don't need to come you know he keep telling me that and then when I show up he said oh I'm going to be at least 3 hours late leave and I stand in for you that's what he's been doing that's why I kind of thought he was okay. For for me.
Read more
28 Apr, 2015 by Philip
Glenn was, to me, an excellent attorney. He knows the law well. He takes the needed time to counsel with you to obtain all needed information and gives excellent legal advise. There were many times Glenn was more than an attorney but also a caring friend. Often he said just the right words that I needed to hear to help me gain wisdom, strength and endurance. He not only has an excellent reputation as a skilled, successful, wise attorney but he is also known for his caring, good heart. He will fight hard for justice and the rights of his client.
Read more
26 Sep, 2021 by Josh
I do not recommend her. she kept asking for money and never resolved my case. she owes $1000. she never answers her phone.
I need a lawyer to sue her.
Read more
19 Oct, 2009 by Ronald
Introduced by a long time friend, Mr. B. Smith, who spoke very highly of Attorney Deckard she would be very congenial, thorough, quite knowledgeable. I found her to be these things and more. Simply a great attorney! Ron
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Araceli sanchez
Don’t recommend CLAUDIA would just take your money and take advantage of people that are not from here claim she helped my husband get out of jail when she literally had to find out how he got out because she did not know
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Araceli sanchez
Don’t recommend CLAUDIA would just take your money and take advantage of people that are not from here claim she helped my husband get out of jail when she literally had to find out how he got out because she did not know
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Araceli sanchez
Don’t recommend CLAUDIA would just take your money and take advantage of people that are not from here claim she helped my husband get out of jail when she literally had to find out how he got out because she did not know
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Connie belew
09 Jun, 2024 by Vince corroo
11 May, 2024 by Beulah darnell
He's a very good attorney to hire for adult disability.
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Veronica ayala
Gracias ah Daniel Ramírez Law ya tengo mi tarjeta de trabajo, me encanta el excelente servicio que te brindan, muy agradecida, ☺️ son muy confiables
Muchas gracias por el gran excelente trabajo que hacen, 🙏, muy recomendable ☺️
Read more
26 Mar, 2024 by Miguel salazar
Gracias al abogado Daniel Ramirez y a la Sra Aly Rivera por su trabajo que nos brindaron sobre el accidente que tuvimos y trabajaron duro para ganar nuestro caso,
Nos sentimos muy contentos con su servicio, de nuevo muchas gracias y que dios los vendiga.
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Timo ancan
Muy agradecido con los servicios prestados en esta oficina de abogados. Por el profesionalismo y la prontitud de que el trámite se realizó. Gracias en especial a Maria Garcia por el trato amable y muy gentil para llevar el caso.
We are thankful for the services provided at this office. For the professionalism and the quickness that this process in our case. Specially Maria Garcia for the humane and kind treatment to follow with out process.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Jorell zapanta
10/10 service. Professional and personable through and through, especially Liz who went above and beyond. I felt very empathized with and considered! Would recommend every time, hopefully I don't get another ticket though lol
Read more
13 Feb, 2024 by Jesus alfonso guerrero anchondo
Muy amable, muy profesional y muy respetable.
resolvió mi caso de 3 cargos en 2 semanas y me dejó limpio, atiende tus dudas y siempre responde, ampliamente recomendado
Read more
11 Jan, 2024 by Blanca quintana
27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
Read more
05 May, 2023 by Aja holman
BEWARE they will take your money and will not do anything!!!!
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Tiffani
My friend has been incarcerated at Lee Sterritt for 8 months & never hears back from Mr. Ashford nor gets visits. In last court appearance he told my friend to stop filing dumbass grievances - the judge even asked if he said this. He stated he did & him, the judge & the DA rep all laughed. Not everyone is guilty. Not sure exactly what he does to earn a salary. Smh.
Read more
10 Feb, 2023 by Erica wilson
I am reading the bad reviews about Mr. Ashford and that is not the man that I got for my son case. He was very honest about my son situation and let me know the choices that he had. My son had one of the worst cases you can have. Every time I called him his receptionist would answer and tell me he wasn't in, and she would take a message and make sure he got it. He would call me back when he could, no it was not right away, but he always returned my calls. When you get a lawyer, we have to understand that our family member is NOT the only client they have. He could be handling 20 other cases at one time. He is an attorney for Juveniles and adults. Yes, we all want them to stop what they are doing and cater to our loved ones, I'm no exception to that, but that's just not how it is. We want certain outcomes, knowing darn well it's a 50/50 chance it could go the other way. Be realistic about the outcome of the situation. Just like my son case. It was not what I wanted but it was the best decision for his situation. Then when you don't get the outcome, you want. The attorney gets bashed. They are the attorney for a reason if you could do the job yourself then you wouldn't need him. I had to learn to be patience and know that he would get to me just as soon as he could, and that's exactly what he did. It didn't make me feel less important at all. Respect your attorney, talk with sense when you speak to them, be patience, and be realistic about the situation. Mr. Ashford thank you 1,000 times for your dedication on my son case, and even checking on me to see how I was holding up. If you are looking for an attorney do not hesitate to call him. He is a VERY, VERY, good attorney.
Read more
21 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
George Ashford III failed to communicate and provide updates on a case. I understand that if the courts a public defender to defend you. The attorney pretty much works for the courts. How is this fair? I feel that he did not fight for me when I needed him the most. Although, I did not personally hire him, Dallas County did, I feel that he could have at least put forth an effort to fight for my freedom or a lesser sentence.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Connie belew
09 Jun, 2024 by Vince corroo
11 May, 2024 by Beulah darnell
He's a very good attorney to hire for adult disability.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Started a motion without consulting me. She used false information and made up evidence. She was rude, unprofessional and did not answer my questions/concerns even after demanding payment. I am in the process of file a grievance with the State Bar of TX.
Read more
27 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Monique is Amazing!!
I met her under the circumstances of having no bond allowed an she was able to convince the judge for a bond when I was told by many attorney’s that it was impossible.
Very pleasant to speak with and very informative, always willing to assist on any measures. She works with you at all times of the day.
Monique recently helped complete a custody battle from 2014 which we avoided incarceration. Monique reinsured me and guided me through each step. “I WALKED FREE”.
I highly recommend Monique! She is very professional, approachable and gives you an honest direct option on the matter!
Thank you,
KH
Read more
01 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
She is rude and non informative
She wasn’t helping me at all but made the case worse.
Read more
23 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
She helped my son with his case and kept me informed along the way. I thought she was amazing.
Read more
13 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I've been waiting a long time to decide if I wanted to post this review. I'm not a mean-spirited person and when I have a conflict, professional or otherwise, with someone, I tend to want to just put it behind me. But as I've seen friends and family members in the Dallas area work their way through the pain of a divorce, I've decided that I should probably go ahead and bite the bullet.
I was extremely happy with Audrey's responsiveness when I came in to see her for my consultation. She seemed to understand exactly what I was going through with my very abusive husband. I paid her the full amount of her retainer.
The first thing she did was make a recommendation that I felt was unethical. I decided not to do it, because I was certain my ex-husband's attorney would see right through it since it is a common, if somewhat underhanded, tactic. I don't know if that refusal was why she decided to stop answering my emails and phone calls, but from that point on, I spent more than a full year trying to get her to do what she said she was going to do. I made appointments with her that she didn't attend. I sent hundreds of emails over two years, and she only responded to about 5% of them. She filed motions that she didn't tell me she was going to file, and that I didn't get a chance to review prior to filing. She ignored attempts from my ex-husband's lawyer to contact her and move things along. When I tried to talk to her about how disappointed I was in her lack of responsiveness, she scolded me for sending her so many communications. Most importantly, I recently learned that she did not file the actual divorce paperwork when she said she did, and my ex-husband ended up filing first. She did not adequately stand up for me in court during the initial hearing, and seemed unwilling to schedule any further hearings. She did not deliver paperwork to me that I had a right to see. Working with Audrey brought me an incredible amount of anxiety and grief.
Eventually I fired her and hired another attorney. When my new attorney attempted to contact her to get all of the paperwork, she did not receive a response from Audrey's office. After hiring a new attorney, it took only 5 months to finalize a divorce that had, at that point, taken almost two years to work through.
Audrey is clearly a very intelligent and knowledgeable lawyer. She came highly recommended from another lawyer I know who held her in very high esteem. In the rare instances when I felt like Audrey was working for me and attending to me as a client, I felt well taken care of. However, on the whole, my experience with Audrey was such that I cannot help but urge anyone going through a difficult divorce process to choose another attorney.
Read more
30 Apr, 2015 by Tyronejackson
I have hired this young lady to to obtain visitation rights for my children and to hold my children's mother for denying me visitation in the past.without the courts I have absolutely no way of seeing my children. as I have thoroughly explained that to Audrey.I have shown her 10 police reports stating that she deny me my rights to see my children. including one that said she would rather go to jail then to let me see my children. Audrey was not moved at all to help as she took my money. the children are in a household where there was domestic violence. I've told her that I need everything done legally and by the court as you can see and I have experience being a black man going before the policeto see my children I'm already a victim. the first person they want to arrest is me unless I show them document real fast. she did not take me seriously but it seems that she helped the mother as my case got worse dealing with an inexperienced Attorney such as Audrey.Audrey had an opportunity to help to young lady my daughters my beautiful daughters to obtain a relationship with their father whom they love and I love but audrey has failed. Don't know why she did not carry out the orders but it seems that she worked out an agreement with the other parties Attorney because everything she told me she was going to do she did not do. Not only does she represents her people wrongly her appearance is extremely terrible in and out of the courtand to top it all her secretary Mary has been terrible attitude as well I came to Audrey by recommendation of a friend whom I trusted. Do not hire this attorney is he's a joke and I still don't have a relationship with my daughters. in society they say black men don't want to be a part of their child's life look at Audrey she's part of the reason because we want to be a part of our children's life we just can't get qualified help
Read more
30 Jan, 2024 by Vanessa cabrera
Do not waste your money!
Read more
18 Sep, 2023 by Tina wolf
Horrible experience, I do not recommend. Please do not give these people your money. My Chase Horton didn’t even show up to court today
Read more
15 Apr, 2023 by Rosanne miller
Emily negotiated great changes for me in a contract with a TV production company. We ended up saving a lot of money and Emily was Very professional. Her knowledge of the industry is a definite asset for anyone looking for an Entertainment Lawyer.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Connie belew
09 Jun, 2024 by Vince corroo
11 May, 2024 by Beulah darnell
He's a very good attorney to hire for adult disability.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Jyria
I could have rate him zero if am able to . This is a very terrible disgusting attorney have ever met. My husband hired him for his defense but it was a terrible client attorney experience. He dont pick calls, he dont reply emails, he dont reply text . It will make you feel like he is doing you a favor because he is always not reachable and will mess you up ..please stay away from this attorney. I bet he is hiding his picture out here off his profile because he knew the kind of terrible services he gives . I sometimes ask myself how we hired this man was tital mistake and waste of time. . If am to describe him I know he limbs so be aware of him and stay off his services so you don't experience terrible client service
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
This is the most useless,unprofessional attorney you will ever come across in dallas . Am sure that is why he hide his photo identity off this space but his office is at 1910 pacific ave ste 5050 dallas texas . Please stay away from him . He is not a good attorney, he is not knowledgeable, he won't pick your calls for up to 10months or more after he must have collected his legal fee and on your case. He will not reply email or text . This his the phone 214-475-1656. I would have put his picture so you can be aware . He deliberately took off his picture from all attorney that bears same name as you can see he is the only one person his picture missing because he knows he is a very terrible lawyer. Stay away from this attorney for your peace of mind and sanity . If it is possible to give zero ratings I would have gone for that .. I am talking from experience and a very terrible one indeed . He is not trustworthy and
Read more
09 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could give this attorney a zero star I would I would have to say he is the worst attorney in America. He didn’t solve my case when they had no sufficient evidence, he made my case worse. I would never recommend anybody to use this attorney ever. He is horrible and I’m not just saying that.
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.
