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23 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Took legal action on case already being handled by another Law Practice. Garnishment of bank account although payment was already being made to another Law Firm.
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25 Mar, 2016 by Tr
Greg is AMAZING!! He has helped our family in many different ways, Zoning issues, Real estate deals, lleasing contracts, franchise negotiations, collections negotiating and yes teenage boys driver issues!!! I have recommended Attn. Gantt to numerous friends and they have all thank me profusely for recommending Greg to them. Amazingly with out being prompted they have all told me how afraid they were but Greg was able to put them at ease and amazingly salve there problems! I do not recommend people easily, you have to earn my recommendation!! If I can say one thing to you it's put your fate in Greg Gantt hands He will not disappoint you!!
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26 Aug, 2015 by Andrew
Consulted with Attorney Gantt on a specific matter and he was more than helpful. I would recommend him to any family member, friend, and/or colleague.
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16 Jun, 2022 by Heather c
Ms Sellers believed me when no one else would listen. I’m very grateful that she was appointed to represent me and very proud to say she is my attorney!
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04 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Sellers to assist my son in a criminal case in Dayton. She handled his case in a timely professional manner. I appreciated the time that she took to explain each step she was taking in resolving his case. The out come of the case was very favorable. We were very thankful and cannot thank her enough.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Sellars was my attorney in a criminal case. I desperately needed her to file one Motion that was very significant in the case. She ttok an eternity to actually file the Motion and then she did not follow up properly. Mrs. Sellars would never return my phone calls, was very rude and unprofessional. She always spoke to me in a very condescending tone..despite the fact I am college educated. Having Ms. Sellars as my attorney was a horrible experience.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Shannon
You will not meet a better attorney than Jay Adams. He is honest, up front and gets the job done every time. He is direct to the point and very straight forward. I have referred him to many many people. He ALWAYS does a stellar job. No he might not return every single call but that's because he's working. to win your case. He will call when there is an update. He is super busy but takes the time to work every case as if it were his own. He CARES and that's not easy to find. He is my attorney for life and if you need an attorney it would be in your best interest to call Jay at CiceroAdams.
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17 Jun, 2023 by Jessica
From the initial consultation to the finial hearing, Mr Adams did a stellar job. He is kind, caring, honest and smart. He and his team were impeccably professional and dedicated. I always felt valued and respected as a client and he got great results for me in the end.
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13 May, 2023 by Mindy
Pat hands down Jay Adams is the best attorney I have ever dealt with. He doesn't lie he tells it like it is he's very open about your case to you letting you know what to expect. I have used him over 30 years it started out with a divorce and child support and whatever bull my ex-husband tried to pull Jay fixed it 100%. I have had two of my sisters go to him as well as two friends and one guy for a divorce that was in the military and honestly I can't tell you what else. Jay Adams is worth every penny he charges and whether he likes it or not he is my attorney for life. Thank you Jay for everything you've ever done for me my family or anybody I recommended you to you're awesome......Mindy Harrison you know the one that was married to a Green county deputy I don't have to say any names you know exactly who I'm talking about LOL. I am getting ready to use another lawyer and his office who I haven't used yet but if she works for Jay I know she's okay I look forward to meeting Melissa
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03 Sep, 2024 by Jay robinson
If she is appointed to your case as a Guardian Ad Litem, I’d recommend your attorney request another one. She was nearly impossible to get in contact with (emails nor phone calls), and she literally waited until the night before her report was due to write it. She saw me interact with my child that I had not seen for a year for only a short period of time (not enough for a decision of this magnitude), and left out or didn’t go into depth about important factors of the case in her report, such as evidence I had shown her. When I met her, she spoke of her job as a realtor and how she was dealing with a client rather than discussing my case. If you research her you’ll see that she has other interests and it is my opinion that she uses this as quick side money. She gets paid $2,000 upfront and does a few hours of work at most while just quoting whatever you say to her in her reports to fill the pages to make it look like she did her job.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bernard
If I could give less than one star, I would. As an "impartial" guardian ad litem, she outright LIED in her report to the court. Lied. I'll stand by that. She is not impartial, and I find it no coincidence that she tends to favor fathers as does the magistrate who appointed her. Be wary around her.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Aileen grech
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13 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I got this lawyer through Legal Aid of Western Ohio, they referred him to me. I gave him a lot of money to represent me and we talked about making motions and getting custody within 2 years. He made it an absolute promise that I would have my children in the beginning, he said he had done this many times before. After all this time and much money his promises were not fulfilled. There was an instance he didn't show up in court and another instance he told me that the court case was cancelled and then attended it without me. I asked him to file motions on my behalf that I feel would have helped me win the case and he told me that he was 'completely powerless' and 'is not the type of lawyer to file motions'. I really felt abandoned by him and that I had invested my money for no reason. On one occasion the court date had been moved, he was notified and was supposed to notify me, he didn't, so I showed up in court only to be calling him and asking him where he was. Then he explained it was cancelled and he forgot to tell me. What kind of lawyer says "I don't file motions?"
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26 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
found through a recommendation, will use again
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12 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Brian Huelsman was appointed to me as a public defender. I had contacted his office as well as he by phone prior to my hearing. He made no attempt to contact me prior to my hearing, I was only able to consult with him after court proceedings had begun the day of my hearing. At that time there was no to time to review or discuss the charges I faced, he only relayed the information put forth by the prosecutor, he did not provide any advice or opinion he only wanted to know if I wanted to plead guilty or a to schedule a trial date. I ask what good is a public defender who has no inclination of providing advice let alone a defense?
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10 Aug, 2014 by Will
Mr. Huelsman is a GREAT attorney. He kept me well informed about my case and got me the best deal law would allow. I would recommend him with the highest confidence and will retain him again if ever necessary.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Ann
He's a very honest and guinuine man. He actually cares about helping people and does make sure to get paperwork and court dates. Never lied and was very straight forward! He helped change my life!
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18 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
He told me he would do a conference on the day of the hearing prior to the hearing.. That did not take place which had a detrimental effect on the outcome. Then claimed that the phone call about the conference was the conference!
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01 Aug, 2023 by Regina sharpe
Dalma Grandjean showed up 45 minutes late to court, with her hair messed up, stack of ruffled papers, completely unprepared, provided no defense and told me to plea guilty resulting in the judge charging me horribly.... After she had been paid many thousands of dollars to defend me.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Charles garland
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15 Jan, 2020 by Carlos salas
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22 Aug, 2022 by Darryl thomas
I had the honor to meet Tom eight years ago. I'm forever thankful that I have him as my legal representation. He has assisted me in small matters that other big name lawyers, such Vanoy and Gil Switala, we're unwilling to do. His background and expertise is profound. He also has an excellent reputation among the judges in the Miami Valley area. He is very efficient in providing appropriate costing legal representation and has assisted my whole entire family with all types of issues, even the small claims court and traffic offenses. For Tom, to not have a phone tree of paralegals and secretaries to decide if he wants to take your call, He has remained throughout the years to be productive, efficient, and not "too big" for his loyal and long lasting clients. I don't know what the other reviews are even talking about, however, while I was deployed Tom handled matters while I was fighting for this country and assisted my wife. I'm honored to have him as my lawyer, and privileged to serve a country with Thomas Manning, ESQ practicing law. Tom Manning is my "Lincoln Lawyer", however he is better than a Lincoln Lawyer. Thank you Tom for nine years of representation, sir!!!
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03 Jul, 2018 by Renee
I hired Tom Manning to represent me in family court. He did very little to help. He had another lawyer that had no knowledge of my case show up in his place the day of court. Nothing went the way it should until I fired him and hired a lawyer that went in and cleaned house. I would never recommend Manning.
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21 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
Since he does not have his business address, I cannot confirm this is the same attorney; however, if your Thomas Manning uses a PO Box as his address --- this is likely him. This guy PAINFULLY slow to do anything. His knowledge in the field of DIVORCE is sub-par...when told to leave things conditions out of a dissolution agreement...he disregards the clients wishes and enters the information ... causing delays and rework at the clients expense. I would NOT recommend this using this attorney for a dissolution let alone a divorce.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Lori wilson
Extremely expensive for services provided..Non-communicative. Finally, I had to seek other legal council to distribute irrevocable trust funds from an estate. Felt like my business not important to the firm.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Bradley bohus
Rude, inconsiderate, incompetent law firm.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Naiz vega
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27 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I do not like to disparage another person, but the management of my case was continually unprofessional. Simple things like failing to bring proof of my income to a temporary orders hearing—the most essential document— requesting multiple times the same document that I had previously sent and blaming me when the other party expressed frustration for her mishandling papers. She didn’t respond to emailed concerns. She scapegoated me to the other party as I saw in conversation threads and only skimmed my messages regularly as I could see by her response—one time acting very dramatic about the shock of something I mentioned in a previous email she replied casually to when later it was an issue for the other party. At 35 days to the trial, I confronted her on various concerns which I had previous brought up and that second opinions from other lawyers seperately identified where she was failing. She withdrew that day as counsel rather than demonstrating accountability and maturely responding to my concerns and I was left to myself at the trial. The outcome was dismal because of her unethical behavior and my family with many children is permanently harmed.
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20 Mar, 2022 by Kevin
I used Duff back in 2006 for a divorce. The case lasted 2 years and cost me a fortune. She did not answer phone calls or emails. She does not have her clients best interest at heart. She is a scammer who makes deals with other attorneys depending on whose turn it is to win. I am still paying in some aspects of life due to her negligence.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Trisha for my divorce. She did not return calls or emails usually for weeks. When I did sit down with her, she was brusk and did not take my concerns seriously. I felt like she was more interested in playing nice with the other attorney than advocating for what was most important for my child. In the end, I have an agreement that is so poorly written, that no one can figure out what should happen. Several lawyers have also told me how inappropriate the agreement Trisha pushed me into is for my situation.
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09 Oct, 2021 by Dee
Did his job very poorly. Did NOT do what was in the best interest of the child despite everything he knew. Thankfully our heavenly father stepped in and had the parenting modified. Very unprofessional
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23 Aug, 2013 by Darrick
After taking my money his zeal to go out and get information was poor. He showed very poor skill of communication ,being a skilled professional . his knowledge of the law was not as sharp as one to charge the amount of money he received from me. He had me to dig up my own evidence to defend myself. I seen his laziness from the beginning to the end of my case, which by the way he loss. I felt it was because he didn't,t prepare.
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31 Aug, 2012 by Jade
Once Ben Swift received the retainer in my child custody case, his concern waned. He was unresponsive to calls or emails from me and once missed a filing deadline. Needless to say, my child custody case had devastating results. I had to settle for an unfair decision. Once I took my business elsewhere, I had to spend thousands of dollars to undo the damage Ben's laziness and ignorance of the law cost myself and my daughter. Fortunately, a true professional was able to rectify this case. I would never recommend Ben's services (and I use the term loosely).
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26 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Unbelievable high fee, $3,500, he requires for work he does not perform. He could not even or was too lazy to find our previous court case that was relevant to our current case, which would have lessened the punishment. We had to find that ourselves and send it to him! Do not be per sumptuous that the more money you spend the better result you’ll receive. I saw these two bad reviews of his and chose to ignore them because someone I knew used Brian and seemed to have received a decent result, only to find out they spent way more than our $3500.I also know of another person who used a different attorney for only $1000 and received a huge positive result. The two other cases that I am referring to were for the same charge as ours, OVI. Brian obviously does not keep in mind that a referral basis is necessary for his business.
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27 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired this man. Was a huge mistake. Cost a fortune. Was charged for his mistakes. I think this man has no soul.
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16 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Best way I can describe him is that he is a "better call Saul" lawyer. He didn't care about me, my particular case or my wishes. He did VERY little work for A LOT of money. The only reason he even has one star is because I had to put at least one. He has made it more difficult to get the things I want when it could have been easy to get it to begin, he just didn't want to put in the effort.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Florida33181
This is my opinion and based on my 5 months of being a client. I really felt I was given what I wanted to hear from Steve when I questioned him about representing me as my new lawyer in my divorce case. He was responsive for the first two months via email and phone calls and even texts. Then everything changed and I don't know why. My calls and emails went unreturned for weeks and his admin would tell me she was working on getting a con call set up and then nothing. I would call back in a week and receive more excuses. The opposing counsel is difficult at best to deal with and in my opinion just pushed Steve around. I was forced to file an extension of my 2009 taxes because of lawyers from both sides. My case did not move along and we were not prepared to go to trial so I had to eventually find new counsel. In my opinion I would not recommend Steve for a divorce lawyer and would suggest you find a lawyer who specializes in Family Law
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10 Dec, 2013 by Dennis
I hired Steve for OVI charges. His fee was 3500.00, but what I got for that I believe I could have done just as well arguing for myself. He was on time to the several court hearings, but that is about the only positive thing that I could say with my experience with the man. Each time we met at the court , he would go behind closed doors to talk to the prosecutor which is probably the norm. He didn't hardly explain anything to me afterwards about what went on or what was said. As I write this review, I'm still waiting for him to return two previous phone calls that I made to his office within the last week. He hasn't returned one of them. After the court sessions, he would just state let's go home and told me when we were suppose to meet again. In the end, I feel he didn't fight near hard enough for me. I think I was basically an easy payday for him. I don't feel he explain my situation well enough to the prosecutor or judge. In my opinion, Steven didn't me justice in the court room and it cost me a lot of money.
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06 Jun, 2012 by Unhappy with henke
I hired Mr Henke to handle a case for me. He did not accompany me to the deposition or keep me up to date with my case. Approximately 1 week before we went to trial he decided to review the case and suddenly was not aware of things that were disclosed in the preliminary documents and the transcription of my deposition. He advised me that I should not continue on with the case due the attractive nuisance laws in the state of Ohio. Apparently there were not enough comparable cases to support our claim. He told me that it was in my best interest to not continue to trial because we would likely lose. I spent approximately 1 year dealing with this drama and was advised to walk away owing him approximately $4000 additional to what I had already paid during the course of the case. When I went to court for my final hearing to drop the case he sent his previous partner with me. His partner told me that he had advised him not to take the case initially and that he responded with "it's easy money one way or another". Wow!!! I had a tragic event in my life and it was just easy money. I don't see how the man can live with himself. I have talked with other attorneys since this event and was told by those attorneys that I would have more than likely won regardless. I realize that no amount of money was going to make me happy again, but I felt that the parties responsible should have been held responsible and had I had an attorney who participated in my case during the entire course, things would have ended differently.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Haven't heard any response from him in four months. Left 4 phone messages, he's always "out of the office". Wrote 20 emails, multiple questions regarding my case. Even asked for a statement of services rendered aprox a month ago and have yet to receive that. It seams he is avoiding any communication with me and would NOT recommend him to anyone I know.
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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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