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06 Mar, 2019 by John
Marcus Morris represented my nephew on a Criminal Case that was out of Catoosa County GA. It was very nice to see how he was able to relate and bring together all the entities involved in such a cohesive way. My nephews case, per all of Mr. Morris's hard work, was ultimately Nolle Proc'd (Dismissed) much to my, and the family's, happiness. I wanted to thank him every time that i ran into him, and the others involved in the case as well. It would be hard to find a better Attorney out there, and i do not need to look any farther than Mr. Morris.
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06 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Marcus Morris is a very considerate lawyer. I think he cares about his clients. He was able to get my daughter's DUI dismissed. Although she had some extenuating circumstances, we couldn't have done it with out his help. Plus his price seems to be good.
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15 Mar, 2017 by Susan & juan
Marcus Morris has a reputation for being the best criminal attorney in NW Georgia and after working with him on a very sensitive family matter we can definitely support that statement. He has treated us like family and really strived to make things less stressful and always tried to put our minds at ease, especially when you have very stressed and worried family members. He is very caring and supportive, states the facts, gives you the best and worst case scenarios, the in's and out's...I mean this guy knows his stuff and doesn't mess around. If you are looking for an attorney in his specialty areas then he is by far the best of the best and you will be amazed with his professionalism and knowledge. Mr. Morris will always be our choice for legal issues in the future if needed and we recommend him to all our friends and family. A+
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01 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I touched base with the Morris & Dean Law Firm after several failed attempts to close this case with two previous repidable Atanta based criminal attorneys. I was driving up to Detrout MI from Los Angeles CA to visit relatives. I stopped off for a few beers along the way in GA and that's were my troubles began. I was charged with hit and run, open container, and a warrant was issued for failure to appear. I was facing jail time, heavy fines, and the loss of my CDL because I am a commercial truck driver. Attorney, Brandon Sparks of Morris & Dean worked varocously on my case. He managed to get the charges reduced to a non-driving charge and have the other charges dismissed which saved my trucking career. He was also able to get my case miraculously settled in absentia, without me having to fly back to GA. He was an excellent attorney, and this is an A-1 firm to hire if you land yourself in a bad legal situation.
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05 Jan, 2017 by Corey
I hired Brandon about 7 months ago when I wrecked my truck. I was arrested and charged DUI and Failure to maintain lane. When we went to court Brandon was able to get my charges reduced down to a reckless driving and failure to maintain lane. He had a lot of eagerness and drive that really help me out.
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18 Dec, 2016 by Shannon
Bout 15yrs ago Brandon sparks was a public defender and I had him and he really surprised me.He was a little sassy(cocky)when he first started out and he got me a not guilty verdict on a lottery scam that I somehow got into and cashed the check and wrote checks on that account after them scammer stopped payment on the lottery winnings.he's an awesome lawyer
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16 Jun, 2019 by Justin
Mr. Blevins is currently working on a very difficult case for me. I happen to be innocent but a lot of things do not seem to point that way from an outsiders prospective. He has been understanding, open and honest, and helpful since our first conversation. He put more time and work into my case before I ever paid him anything and he has kept that momentum up. I’m not sure what’s going to happen when I go to trial. I’m facing a substantial amount of time. It’s unfortunate but I’m glad to see this side of the justice system. But, I’m glad that I got to see it with somebody like Stephen by my side. I know he has a lot of work to do this summer to prepare for my case. And I have no doubts that it will be done. If I lose at this trial, I would still have nothing but kind things to say about If I lose at this trial, I would still have nothing but kind things to say about Stephen Blevins Law representing me. Wish I could give 10 Stars.
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11 Jan, 2019 by Eric
I was referred to Stephen by another lawyer I was working with on a moving traffic violation. Stephen was extremely responsive, reliable, and kind throughout the entire legal process. He always called me with updates, fought for my best interest on my behalf with the court in my absence, and was able to facilitate an outcome that didn't add ANY points to my driving record. He was very fair with his fee's, and for the quality of service he provided I couldn't have asked for a better value. I can't thank him enough for all the hard work he put into my case. I couldn't recommend him more!
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26 Mar, 2015 by Brenda
Mr. Blackburn is a great and extremely knowledgeable attorney! With 20+ years of experience he will tackle any case head on and get you what you are entitled to!
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09 Dec, 2018 by Edie
Mr Ray went to court 4 times with me ,demanding Tj video and pointing out mistakes in report . He defended me vehemently and was worth every penny he was able to get a DUI COMBO dropped and kept my life from being ruined. I am 57 years old and he is one of me HEROES! Thank you Mr Ray
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06 Sep, 2024 by Tina silvers
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15 May, 2024 by Deanna hollar
Leslie is great! Even though we have not been able to settle yet, I'm very pleased with his work. He is fighting hard to make sure my husband I get what we deserve since the accident was not our fault. He even helped us out with getting my husband a car when his motor went out a couple weeks ago! Highly recommend Leslie Waycaster to represent you!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Kassandra deharo
Great law firm… Vary helpful!!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Nancy wiggers
Mr. Marcus Morris helped my 18 year old daughter with a "super speeder" ticket. He was so through and caring. By addressing her case up front and preparing, she avoided jail time! I am forever grateful.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Alvaro rubio
No proof of harm to victim n still had me serve years n yes you could have done some not just what the DA offered
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24 Jul, 2024 by Nobody nowhere
I took Mr Morris to court with me today for a 10 year old traffic offense and warrant. Mr Morris was very professional and proficient at his job and if you want a great attorney to take with you to court, this is the guy to call!!!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Ravi kumar
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24 Aug, 2024 by Keina peley
Quiero agradecer al Dr. Valverde por su profesionalismo. También al grupo legal Cornejo por su excelente asesoría y apoyo constante. Recomiendo ampliamente sus servicios a cualquiera que necesite.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Jack kundlas
El mejor obogado del mundo a sido para nosotros la verdad 💪🏻💪🏻👌🏼👌🏼
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17 Jul, 2024 by Lisa white
Mr Hurtt did a great job representing me. I was able to see about 5 other cases prior to my hearing. My hearing went so much better than the others and it was obvious we were much better prepared than any of the others.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jose nuñez
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26 Jun, 2024 by Marilda matos
So this review is long overdue!! I had the pleasure of having Mr. Johnson as my lawyer in this process of a chapter 7 and helped me step by step, broke it down on a sheet that I used as a checklist and when the time came to go to court (we did it online) he was there with me all the way giving the advice on the process and how the following would go. Very professional in his business and never made me feel like any questions I had were stupid questions. Very realistic and down to earth. I thank you so much for taking away the nerves and staying with me every step of the way when I saw other establishments do not and thanks to my friend for recommending me this establishment with great staff.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Jesse allgood
Joshua is a down to earth attorney. Very understanding and prompt. Really great guy!
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09 Jan, 2024 by Austin hunter
They are wonderful people! Very professional, and they keep you updated!
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28 Nov, 2023 by Mae james
Joshua Smith is very knowledgeable, and takes time to explain what is happening with your case. I would recommend Mr. Smith for any of your legal matters.
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21 Nov, 2012 by Steve
I hired Mr. Williams in 2010, he was a expensive attorney but did a very good job. I had no problems with my license and the case ended with a dismisal. I caught the charges in Catoosa County and Mr. Williams was always present and helpful anytime we were summoned to a court proceding. I highly reccomend Mr. Williams he is without a doubt worth every penny I paid for his expertise..
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09 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Williams will get charges dropped for you(i.e. illegal traffic stop) that results in arrest for different charges stemming from the illegal stop . He is very smart. He used to be the assistant DA in Whitfield County, where he mainly practices. You will have to pay for his services...but it's well worth it..best for plea bargains but also a good/experienced trial attorney.
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02 Nov, 2022 by Andrew reid
Zach Moore and Greyson Oswalt-Smith handled our case with supreme efficiency. We couldn’t dream of better results!!! Very professional, dedicated and committed to go above and beyond to achieve favorable outcomes! We appreciate all you have done and look forward to a long relationship with this firm.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Carter sills
I contacted this law firm to represent me in a criminal defense case that was at least two years old. I love these guys. They were the most helpful people I have ever met. My attorney Mr Oswald Greyson Smith is a very talented lawyer and has great compassion for his clients. He did a excellent job defending me and I would strongly reccomnend him. He literally saved my life as I am a cancer patient. I wish him the best of everything Carter Sills
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04 Mar, 2022 by Jessica worthington
Still dealing with an absolute nightmare from a case we lost with this lawyer. The case should have been opened and closed. A child will now be completely damaged. For absolutely no reason. All bc this lawyer was unprepared, did not care, and his client was a male. Went in thinking we would have Mr.Perotta. Problems with the case from the beginning and Mr.Perotta was notified of this and acknowledged it. Almost 2 years later. Constant games with other partys involved. Come up with more money I guess for this to ever be over. Not to this law firm!!! This child's damage is on this law firms hands along with the poor "big wigs" in the Bartow County "Justice" system who get thrown into cases at the end and are too busy to know a thing about your case. Any good lawyers anyone? There have been some dirty things down in this county and I am ready to tell someone.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Phil floyd carter
Was offered the chance for public defender in magistrate Court just got railroaded by the judges an the Whitfield Co code office
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27 Jun, 2022 by Jake black
I sat in jail for 6 months without a bond, an attorney that never once came to the jail to see me, denies receiving over 60 letters from me, waived my evidentiary hearing, waived my preliminary hearing, tried to give me a discovery with photocopies and not the real evidence, and when she did give me my discovery she was a pompous, arrogant, crass person.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Drew davie
Thank you Carter for such great help with my traffic ticket & rescheduling court for my upcoming class & movers today
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29 Apr, 2024 by Phil floyd carter
Was offered the chance for public defender in magistrate Court just got railroaded by the judges an the Whitfield Co code office
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27 Jun, 2022 by Jake black
I sat in jail for 6 months without a bond, an attorney that never once came to the jail to see me, denies receiving over 60 letters from me, waived my evidentiary hearing, waived my preliminary hearing, tried to give me a discovery with photocopies and not the real evidence, and when she did give me my discovery she was a pompous, arrogant, crass person.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Drew davie
Thank you Carter for such great help with my traffic ticket & rescheduling court for my upcoming class & movers today
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17 Jul, 2019 by Tim
He did a very poor job on handling my divorce case. It took him 2 months after I hired him for my divorce to finally file. He didn't contact me to let me know that it was ready, even after several un-returned emails, phone calls and voicemails left. It wasn't until I went by his office to ask for a refund, did he then tell me he had my case ready to file. When I read over it, he had a lot of the information wrong. He lost my info sheet twice along the way. I don't believe he looked at any evidence that I provided. He was always losing my information and couldn't keep up with what information I had already provided him. This along with much more of his lack of actually caring enough about me or my case to spend much time on it at all. The only call I received from him was the day of my Final Hearing, telling me that he made a deal with my spouse's attorney and cost me a lot more to have to pay out for the next several years. I don't feel like he made much of an attempt to fight for me. I don't feel like he worked enough on my case to warrant the retainer I paid him. Do not trust this man with your case. I wonder how many other people's lives have been negatively affected due his poor work ethic. There were so many red flags, but he assured me that it would be fine. I trusted him with so much and he failed me. Hindsight is truly 20/20. I hope this will deter anyone else to put their trust and life in his hands. Remember, whatever the outcome of your case is, it does not effect this man's life one bit.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
My discoveries were due, I made multiple attempts to contact Toland and he would not return my calls and did not show up for my appointment at his office because he was "sick." The deadline came and went. It was my understanding that I lost my case due to this but luckily my husband and I are trying to make it work. Do not trust yours or your children's wellbeing to this attorney.
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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:

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction.
  4. How many cases have you taken to trial?
    While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial.
  5. Who will handle my case?
    Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work.
  6. How do you communicate with your clients?
    Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
  • Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
  • Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

  • Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
  • Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
  • List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
  • Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

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