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21 Jul, 2020 by Charles
I reached out to hire Attorney Michael O. Mills to represent me for a second time. He's dependable, straight forward & a great attorney! No jail time in both cases. I felt relieved & satisfied with my end results. Highly favorable to work on our behalf!
Thank you.
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08 Aug, 2019 by Frederick
In early April 2019 I made a huge mistake and faced a high DUI charge. I reached out to several lawyers and Michael Mills was the first to speak with me right away. The process was nerve racking personally but Mr. Mills made it a lot easier on me. My charges were reduced and I avoided any jail time but did have fines to pay. Just wanted to post this here to recommend his services to anyone in need of legal help.
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30 Mar, 2019 by Shawn
Mr. Mills made my life a little easier in dealing with my OVI charge and getting it reduced to a lesser conviction. He took care of everything for me in dealing with court appearances and communication with officials. Be honest with him about your situation and you'll have a lot less headaches.
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19 Sep, 2018 by Larry
On a recent trip to Ohio, I was charged with an OVI along with 2 other traffic violations. With this being said, I knew I would need to be very selective in choosing an attorney to represent me.
After doing my due diligence, I called the law firm of Gounaris Abboud, LPA. I spoke with attorney Tony Abboud about my personal situation. What I quickly learned from my conversation with Tony is that he has the credentials and experience that I could trust.
After I retained Tony as my personal lawyer, the very next day he filed all the necessary paperwork with the court. He explained to me that throughout the process he or his paralegal would always keep me updated every step of the way.
Tony even called me to check in with me from time to time just to check on how I was doing. He truly cares about his clients and is someone who works tirelessly for his clients.
I’m from Wisconsin and Tony was able to get court appearances waived saving me additional time and travel expense.
Moreover, Tony’s paralegal (Emily Smith) was absolutely outstanding in every way. When she would send something to me in the mail, she would call me to make sure I received it to insure nothing would fall through the cracks. Although this may seem simple – it’s also critical.
In the end, Tony was able to get the prosecutor to dismiss the OVI violation along with another traffic citation. I just plead guilty to a minor “turn signal” violation.
With this being said, I would highly recommend Attorney Abboud to anyone who finds themselves in need of legal advice or legal representation. He is simply the best!!
Should you retain his services, you will find him to have masterful communication skills….plus Tony has an outstanding personality!
It’s always easier to get favorable results when you are likeable ….correct?
Everyone of the above attributes is essential! Hire another attorney who is skilled in the law but is lacking in communication skills or simply not likeable … in my opinion, the odds for a non-favorable disposition becomes more likely!
At least, that’s my personal perspective!
So in the end, I am most grateful for the services of Tony Abboud and Emily Smith.
And now I know why the law firm of Gounaris and Abboud are the recipients of many awards!
Thanks Again!
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30 May, 2018 by Mark
After giving Tony a call, he picked up my case in under an hour. I knew I needed help and there was no question of my guilt, but very few people could have done what Tony did. His empathy and integrity are rare qualities to find in a person, and it makes him a very easy attorney to talk to and work with. I was facing 9 years behind bars, but he managed to facilitate a plea deal that resulted in only four months of incarceration. It was unheard of. His affordable rates are worth every penny and a whole lot more. I've witnessed how prison can destroy the good in a person, but Tony won't let that happen to his clients. If I had stuck with a public defender, my life would not be the same. Thank you, Mr. Abboud, for helping me get a second chance.
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22 Feb, 2018 by David
While searching for legal representation for our incarcerated son, we found Mr. Abboud. He listened to us, and was very interested in helping our son. He went above and beyond the normal expectancy we had for an attorney. He showed great concern for, and confidence in our son. He fought very hard on our son's behave, which paid off, because our son was granted his early release from prison even after the Judge had originally said "No"...thanks to Mr. Abboud. Thank you Mr. Abboud for believing in our son, and doing the work you do so amazingly well. We will recommend everyone who needs an attorney to contact you for their needs.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Jesse martin
Cowan & Hilgeman gave me a pain free experience in my personal injury case. They were very helpful and always reached out in a timely fashion and explained every step in detail. Michelle in particular was especially helpful and so nice and patient every step of the way! Thank you!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth 2701
Jack Hilgeman did a great job handing my case.He always responded back to me in a timely manner, he was very knowlegable and proficent.I would definitely recommend and hire him again if needed.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Dawn sanford
Easy to get a hold of all the staff. Always able to answer my questions quick. I would definitely use this firm again.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Mike dunham
Excellent Attorney
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04 Nov, 2023 by Tim long
Garbage, would not use him for a cut,owes me two grand for doing nothing.It was years ago.Have paperwork to prove it,crooked.
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02 Mar, 2020 by Shawn bobbitt
He beasted my dope case in greene county
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30 Dec, 2024 by Rochelle mcgee
19 Nov, 2024 by Amo backyard
Start to finish, pretty painless. Went in with no explanations came out satisfied.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Lioli098 gft
06 Aug, 2016 by Todd family
First of all I give all my thanks to God. I can't thank Jon Paul and his legal team enough for all of their time and effort they spent on my Daughter's case. Rion Rion Rion are experts in every field presented to them. Although this was a difficult time in our lives the support they gave us was outstanding and more than expected. Jon Paul and John H was upfront and honest about everything they said. If you want the best for your money you won't go wrong with Rion Rion Rion. No one could never ask for a better Law Firm. These guys ROCK! God bless you all. The Todd Family.
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27 Feb, 2015 by Aaron
Jon Paul Rion is diligent and knowledgeable attorney. Jon Paul always told me what was happening and did exactly what he said he would do, which was get a great result. Everyone at Rion & Rion was very polite and courteous. I highly recommend Jon Paul Rion. Thank you very much Jon for what you have done for me!
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21 Nov, 2013 by Joseph
He was recommended by a family friend that had read about him on several occasions in the local newspaper. I had consulted with 3 other attorneys and JP Rion was my last stop. The only other attorney I considered using quoted me $15 - $20K to handle the case with a $10K retainer. I mentioned to him I was going to speak with JP Rion before making my final decision and he had nothing but good things to say about JP Rion and said I couldn't go wrong either way.
At my initial consultation JP Rion listened to my story and said he though he could get it thrown out before a trial was needed. I gave him $4,500 and everything I could come up with to help exonerate myself. After we received discovery from the prosecution we got together to review the evidence and fill the gaps. When we got to the pretrial he did his thing and the charges were dismissed. I never even stepped foot into the courtroom.
The other reviewer stated her husband was charged $4,500 up front and when it was time to go to trial he demanded another $3,000. I was told this by JP Rion up front in my initial consultation. Within a week of paying the $4,500 I received a letter in the mail explaining what the $4,5000 did and did not cover. It also reiterated the additional $3,000 due should we need to go to trial. I had to sign this letter and return it. I would assume this is S.O.P. so I'm not sure why she was surprised.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Naomi delgado
I don’t understand a lot about financial processes like bankruptcy but Rick West made it very easy to understand. I felt that I was constantly kept in the loop when it came to my cases progress and what the lawyers needed from me. I learned a lot about credit building and maintenance. I really appreciate all that Mr.West and his team have done for me and my family.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Mandy andrews
Rick west and the whole team have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I look forward to moving forward to my life now and rebuilding my credit.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Teresa collins
Attorney fees were very reasonable. Mr. Fesenmyer promptly answered all my questions and kept me on track for all deadlines. He was compassionate to my situation and made me feel at ease through a very difficult process. TY!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Joel johnson
This is hands down the best lawyer I ever had and if you are looking for someone patient, understanding, highly intelligent, and competent, skillful negotiator and mediator, please look no further. There are a lot of family/criminal lawyers that should not be in business and this woman is a wonderful gem. I have had my shared of okay and great lawyers but she is top tier. Through her, I realized God works in mysterious ways and she was God sent. You cannot find someone better than her with a humbling spirit and the right attitude to defend you and your interest. There is no one better for she speaks to you and treat you like a friend/relative. Emily...you are the best in the field and I mean this sincerely!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Pope glover
Don't hire they will take your money and still keep you in jail or prison behind them filing your paperwork wrong. Would not consider them to no one.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Damek o'dell (dman638)
10 Aug, 2015 by Julie
My family and I have a very complicated legal matter and a long road ahead. Mr. Rigg is Standup Lawyer. He has restored my trust in lawyers. The first time we spoke was a Friday afternoon. He informed me that he wanted to do further research before giving me any advice pin how we should proceed. I surely thought I wouldn't hear back from him until the following week if I heard back at all. I was completely off, he returned my call at 5pm on a Friday. Not only did he have great answers he is following up with me again this week to give me an even better idea on how to proceed. I can't thank him enough for his advice and helpfulness.
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15 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Benjamin Rigg helped my husband and I with an issue we had with our landlord. He sent a letter on legal letterhead and provided legal advice on what our next steps should be in small claims court. He was very responsive to our questions, and would research to get any answers he didn't already know. We'll be going to him for our Wills soon.
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12 Feb, 2025 by Joel johnson
This is hands down the best lawyer I ever had and if you are looking for someone patient, understanding, highly intelligent, and competent, skillful negotiator and mediator, please look no further. There are a lot of family/criminal lawyers that should not be in business and this woman is a wonderful gem. I have had my shared of okay and great lawyers but she is top tier. Through her, I realized God works in mysterious ways and she was God sent. You cannot find someone better than her with a humbling spirit and the right attitude to defend you and your interest. There is no one better for she speaks to you and treat you like a friend/relative. Emily...you are the best in the field and I mean this sincerely!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Pope glover
Don't hire they will take your money and still keep you in jail or prison behind them filing your paperwork wrong. Would not consider them to no one.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Damek o'dell (dman638)
10 Dec, 2024 by Jim anderson
Your office was very helpful in my hernia mesh case. Your patience with me was outstanding and I thank you so much for being supportive to me and would recommend your firm to anyone who needs a great team like Wright and Schultz. Thanks again.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Donny h
Words can not describe how great of a lawyer Frank is! He is also a wonderful person with a kind heart and a good sense of humor. But most of all, the results he has got me for my legal troubles have surpassed my expectations beyond belief. He is a well respected person to have in your corner, and as your advocate, in a court of law or otherwise. I respect Frank and the amount of work and dedication He puts into his practice in law. He is well educated, and has been great to me the past 6 years. I fully and whole heartedly recommend you turn to this man if you ever are in a time of need. Thank you Frank, and thanks Nicole.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Kannon wilkins
Frank Malocu was extremely helpful and reasonable I would highly recommend him for assistance
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15 Jan, 2025 by Destiny mann
James was absolutely amazing with my divorce, he was communicative, he helped eased my anxiety with answering every question I had and made a very terrible time as pleasant as it could have been. I cannot recommend the miller firm enough to anyone who needs a lawyer.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Zraebiel
James was really great from the first moment we spoke. He was very reassuring from the initial consultation until the final hearing. He was pretty easy to reach and available when I needed someone to talk to in the back and forth with the other attorney. Thank you so much for everything! Blessings and best of luck to him and the staff which was also very helpful!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sidney davis
This man is the Law GOAT 🐐 he,saved my political career, cleared my name ,and vindicated me from a 6 figure gold digger…all before lunch…🤷🏽♂️
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23 Jan, 2025 by Naomi delgado
I don’t understand a lot about financial processes like bankruptcy but Rick West made it very easy to understand. I felt that I was constantly kept in the loop when it came to my cases progress and what the lawyers needed from me. I learned a lot about credit building and maintenance. I really appreciate all that Mr.West and his team have done for me and my family.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Mandy andrews
Rick west and the whole team have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I look forward to moving forward to my life now and rebuilding my credit.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Teresa collins
Attorney fees were very reasonable. Mr. Fesenmyer promptly answered all my questions and kept me on track for all deadlines. He was compassionate to my situation and made me feel at ease through a very difficult process. TY!
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24 Mar, 2021 by Johnny p.
If your looking for the complete legal package in a lawyer, look no further. Attorney DALY is a GREAT LAWYER, an absolute powerhouse of legal knowledge, legal strength and experience and a great navigator around all the legal obstacles. Attorney Daly is the Best. He is honest, works hard, works smart and has integrity and is for the people. He refuses to lose any case and never stops fighting. The Man is a Machine ! BIG RECOMMEND!!!!!!!!
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24 Mar, 2021 by Christine
After dealing with several Attorneys regarding an estate and being let down by all..I was recommended by a friend to Mr.Daly. And I am forever grateful. He doesn't quit til the job is done. He was 100% honest from the start. After the first meeting with Mr. Daly I knew everything was going to be done the correct and legal way. He is professional, aggressive and he looks out for his clients best interest. I can not thank him enough for his service. Highly recommend him for any legal reasons.
Nice to know that there are honest attorneys who do care for their clients and not just for their own profit.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Caleb
I'm grateful that I hired attorney Daly to represent me in a legal estate matter. A Constitutional professional in law practice and your rights. Great communication, honesty, very respectful and clear. Kept me aware of what he was doing for me. Mr. Daly was aggressive and got my legal matters moving quickly. Informed me with great explanations on things that were missed represented and what he could do for me. Brings to the court of law great qualities of professionalism, conduct, research, advise, and representation of my legal matter.
Reached out beyond his duties for me as a client.
Highly recommended attorney
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19 Dec, 2017 by Marianne
Jennifer Getty is effective and efficient and conducts herself and matters with integrity and absolute professionalism. She is always respectful – including in the courtroom and of the law. She was responsive and stayed on task without letting opposing council side-step issues or muddy the water. The judge responded well to her as did opposing council. She is smart, genuine and appropriately tough when necessary.
I would consult and hire Jennifer Getty to represent me in any legal matter where I need an attorney to represent my interests. I absolutely trust her.
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21 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Getty has currently held the welfare and safety of my two children in the highest regards. She is a true professional. I feel that all of my concerns expressed to her, thus far, have been handled in a serious and professional manner. She has a very caring, gentle way with children and genuinely cares for their well-being. I would highly recommend her expertise and services to anyone in need.
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24 Oct, 2013 by Scott
Mrs. Getty was able to be professional and courteous to us throughout our proceedings of a custody dispute. She viewed both sides of the debate on an equal and fair level, and placed the needs of the children in the highest regards.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Lauren and her team did an awesome job. Thank you for all your hard work. She was always telling what was going to take place and what we can ask and what we can't as for.
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07 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Ms. Davenport regarding custody of my nephew. She explained the process to me completely and ensured I was understanding what needed to be done. I was very clear on the process and satisfied with my consultation. I highly recommend Ms. Davenport.
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20 Apr, 2011 by Tabitha
Richard Arthur is one of the most genuine attourneys I have ever met, My family has occupied his assistance on a few different occasions and he has come through for us every time. He is very detail oriented and uses that to ensure that his clients are well taken care of in any case. I would highly recommend him to anyone who would ask, his skill level is very broad and he is very knowledgable with each category.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Robert
Cynthia Westwood is an amazing attorney that will fight for you and will go above and beyond for you. She is always pleasant to talk to but fierce in the courtroom. She will always have your best interest in mind and won't sell you down the river. She helped me get custody of my kids by finding a stipulation in the law that has really never been tried in court. It was a hail Mary, and she came through and delivered. I won and have since told everyone that I have came into contact with about her. I could never thank her enough for the relentless effort she put forth. She genuinely cares about you and she is just awesome. She really is a good person and even better attorney. I would always want Cynthia Westwood with me in court
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16 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Did an amazing job with both a child custody case as well as a criminal telephone harassment case. Found not guilty during a jury trial.
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18 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired John Hilgeman nine years ago and got the charges dropped to a none moving violation. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a great Attorney.
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12 Feb, 2025 by Joel johnson
This is hands down the best lawyer I ever had and if you are looking for someone patient, understanding, highly intelligent, and competent, skillful negotiator and mediator, please look no further. There are a lot of family/criminal lawyers that should not be in business and this woman is a wonderful gem. I have had my shared of okay and great lawyers but she is top tier. Through her, I realized God works in mysterious ways and she was God sent. You cannot find someone better than her with a humbling spirit and the right attitude to defend you and your interest. There is no one better for she speaks to you and treat you like a friend/relative. Emily...you are the best in the field and I mean this sincerely!
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Pope glover
Don't hire they will take your money and still keep you in jail or prison behind them filing your paperwork wrong. Would not consider them to no one.
Read more
07 Jan, 2025 by Damek o'dell (dman638)
28 Oct, 2018 by Chris lewandowski
14 Jul, 2018 by Erick sommers
Great firm.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Tracy caylor
28 Oct, 2018 by Chris lewandowski
14 Jul, 2018 by Erick sommers
Great firm.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Tracy caylor
10 Dec, 2024 by Jim anderson
Your office was very helpful in my hernia mesh case. Your patience with me was outstanding and I thank you so much for being supportive to me and would recommend your firm to anyone who needs a great team like Wright and Schultz. Thanks again.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Donny h
Words can not describe how great of a lawyer Frank is! He is also a wonderful person with a kind heart and a good sense of humor. But most of all, the results he has got me for my legal troubles have surpassed my expectations beyond belief. He is a well respected person to have in your corner, and as your advocate, in a court of law or otherwise. I respect Frank and the amount of work and dedication He puts into his practice in law. He is well educated, and has been great to me the past 6 years. I fully and whole heartedly recommend you turn to this man if you ever are in a time of need. Thank you Frank, and thanks Nicole.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Kannon wilkins
Frank Malocu was extremely helpful and reasonable I would highly recommend him for assistance
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10 Dec, 2024 by Jim anderson
Your office was very helpful in my hernia mesh case. Your patience with me was outstanding and I thank you so much for being supportive to me and would recommend your firm to anyone who needs a great team like Wright and Schultz. Thanks again.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Donny h
Words can not describe how great of a lawyer Frank is! He is also a wonderful person with a kind heart and a good sense of humor. But most of all, the results he has got me for my legal troubles have surpassed my expectations beyond belief. He is a well respected person to have in your corner, and as your advocate, in a court of law or otherwise. I respect Frank and the amount of work and dedication He puts into his practice in law. He is well educated, and has been great to me the past 6 years. I fully and whole heartedly recommend you turn to this man if you ever are in a time of need. Thank you Frank, and thanks Nicole.
Read more
06 Nov, 2024 by Kannon wilkins
Frank Malocu was extremely helpful and reasonable I would highly recommend him for assistance
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Jim anderson
Your office was very helpful in my hernia mesh case. Your patience with me was outstanding and I thank you so much for being supportive to me and would recommend your firm to anyone who needs a great team like Wright and Schultz. Thanks again.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Donny h
Words can not describe how great of a lawyer Frank is! He is also a wonderful person with a kind heart and a good sense of humor. But most of all, the results he has got me for my legal troubles have surpassed my expectations beyond belief. He is a well respected person to have in your corner, and as your advocate, in a court of law or otherwise. I respect Frank and the amount of work and dedication He puts into his practice in law. He is well educated, and has been great to me the past 6 years. I fully and whole heartedly recommend you turn to this man if you ever are in a time of need. Thank you Frank, and thanks Nicole.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Kannon wilkins
Frank Malocu was extremely helpful and reasonable I would highly recommend him for assistance
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21 Feb, 2025 by Ryan oxrider
Marcie Sherman is an astounding lawyer who knows the law.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Tina g
During what was undoubtedly one of the most challenging, terrifying and stressful times of my life, Jeff Wren proved to be an invaluable resource. He guided me through the legal necessities with grace.
My situation is very critical, sensitive and complicated. He understood the details and prepared to best present my case in court. He took the time to explain why he prepared the way he did and was patient with numerous questions, fears and concerns.
Jeff's professionalism and timely communication helped alleviate some of my stress. I am deeply grateful for his service and while the judge dismissed the case due to a change in jurisdiction, I highly recommend him to anyone facing similar circumstances.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Carlos ventura
Jeff Wren helped my daughter win full custody with ease and kept her calm and feeling secure to where she was able to power through
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09 Oct, 2024 by Niquea love
This is an amazing lawyer he got the job done quick and fast he stood on business and took a load off my mother if you ever in need of a wonderful lawyer call Anthony
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09 Oct, 2024 by Jaquise tripp
Anthony help my lil cuzn beat his case. He's a good Lawyer
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28 Sep, 2024 by Senbio1288@gmail.com 708584332
04 Feb, 2025 by Lisa haddix
I highly recommend this law firm. They keep me hopeful and in the end. I was awarded. All because of them.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Zachery culver
Had a personal injury that I needed help with. Many other law firms didn’t seem interested to helping me. One phone call to Attkisson law firm, and my issues disappeared. They started the process extremely fast and hardly doing anything the case was close and solve! Totally recommend!
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26 Dec, 2024 by Sarah mccain
Awesome people 100% recommend
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09 Oct, 2024 by Niquea love
This is an amazing lawyer he got the job done quick and fast he stood on business and took a load off my mother if you ever in need of a wonderful lawyer call Anthony
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09 Oct, 2024 by Jaquise tripp
Anthony help my lil cuzn beat his case. He's a good Lawyer
Read more
28 Sep, 2024 by Senbio1288@gmail.com 708584332
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.
