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09 Feb, 2024 by Rene munoz
Es el mejor abogado de Texas y muchos lugares más 100 % recomendado, exelente persona
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25 May, 2023 by Adrian
If you’re looking for an attorney to be there for you through and through stand by your side. This is not the attorney for you unfortunately. Not only did I barely have any contact with him regarding my cases. Most of the times that I did come into contact with his office is when when they were requesting payments. He always stuck in court I would barely get callbacks from him when I requested them . His assistants said I would need to pay to speak with him when he was busy .When I had a warrant out for my arrest his advice to me was to lay low and to avoid being arrested while he could try to do something for me. I had to leave work for a whole month and not only that he kept pushing my court dates back and I ended up getting picked up and it made me look even worse in front of the judge. He barely defended me in any of my court hearings he would have one statement and after that he would stay silent while the prosecutor had a whole list of things to say about me. Only reason I stuck with him as a lawyer was because I hired his brother initially. Unfortunately after his passing I was not able to get my money back they were going to keep it so I had no choice but to go with him and I regret it fully . He wanted me to sit in jail while I waited for him to fight my case which was practically beat and when I hired him to handle my other case he withdrew after I couldn’t not pay him because I was juggling bills after being released but I was still willing to make small payments. But before I could do so I wanted to speak with him and his assistants requested payment first before I could consult with him. Worst experience I’ve ever had with a paid attorney .
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14 Jan, 2023 by Jose medinas gamefowl page
This was my lawyer for many years. He was a very good man. We didn’t meet on great terms, but he became one of the people I looked up to and admired. He was always there for me not just as my lawyer, but I also as my friend he even represented me without me having to pay him he was a very good man and he will be very much missed. Thank you Victor para for everything you did for me but you rest in peace and God bless you.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Ana luisa ortega alonso
Muy agradecidos es muy buen abogado en todo momento hubo información muy buen servicio
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20 Jul, 2024 by Alma anchondo
Mala experiencia tuve con este abogado perdi mi dinero claro hasta que el ya tuvo el dinero completo dijo que no se podia hacer nada pero gracias a Dios tuve la alluda de personas verdaderas y que saben que tanto el trabajo de ellos es valioso como nuestra necesidad este señor no solo se quedo con mi dinero si no que me hiso pasar la vergüenza de mi vida
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18 Jul, 2024 by Karina palacios
30 Jan, 2025 by Ana luisa ortega alonso
Muy agradecidos es muy buen abogado en todo momento hubo información muy buen servicio
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20 Jul, 2024 by Alma anchondo
Mala experiencia tuve con este abogado perdi mi dinero claro hasta que el ya tuvo el dinero completo dijo que no se podia hacer nada pero gracias a Dios tuve la alluda de personas verdaderas y que saben que tanto el trabajo de ellos es valioso como nuestra necesidad este señor no solo se quedo con mi dinero si no que me hiso pasar la vergüenza de mi vida
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18 Jul, 2024 by Karina palacios
10 Dec, 2024 by Hubert ledbetter
I obtained services from the Benjamin Law Firm for my son, and we were very pleased with how they communicated with us during the process and the outcome of his case. I highly recommend this firm of you ever need a lawyer!!!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Yesenia ponce
Excellent lawyer, very helpful, always available to answer any questions, I always appreciate how he breaks everything down so we can easily understand.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Sharon valencia
Very professional !
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10 Dec, 2024 by Hubert ledbetter
I obtained services from the Benjamin Law Firm for my son, and we were very pleased with how they communicated with us during the process and the outcome of his case. I highly recommend this firm of you ever need a lawyer!!!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Yesenia ponce
Excellent lawyer, very helpful, always available to answer any questions, I always appreciate how he breaks everything down so we can easily understand.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Sharon valencia
Very professional !
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02 Dec, 2024 by Paulina lopez
05 Oct, 2024 by Turtle 2010
Great guy he's been our family lawyer since I was a kid and I'm 53yrs old now
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03 Oct, 2024 by Valerie morales
Orlando and his staff are really awesome people and get the job done. Only thing is the dog. Normally I love dogs around, but when you are going for an important case and a dog is barking at you when you walk in. Just throws it off. OTHER Than that, amazing!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Josefina rojas
14 Jan, 2025 by Matiana aguirre
Es un profesional excelente trabajo usa lo más nuevo en leyes se informa muy bien EXCELLENT DEFENSOR ami hermano le daban 10 años y logró bajarlo a 2 años de Carsel mis respetos para usted señor López 🫶⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🙏
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24 Oct, 2024 by Tori de la riva
I couldn’t be more grateful for Louis and his colleges at his law firm. (Margie, Thanya) They were not only extremely reliable, but always kept in contact with me on any new updates, and always kept me on a constant level of communication. Louis Lopez worked hard to getting my case dismissed, all charges dropped, and was also well within the timeframe I needed it to be taken care of. Highly recommend!!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Gerardo hernandez
Great customer support, always professional and courteous. He will always be in your corner for the fight. Awesomeness!!!
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29 Nov, 2023 by Illiana hernandez
06 Sep, 2023 by Ramses hernandez
Stringmartyr 8 this guy is an absolute idiot. This guy doesn't k ow what he's talking about. Santiago Hernandez is one of the best lawyers in El Paso. Don't listen to Stringmartyr 8. That guy probable has a job in Mc Donalds and drives a scooter to work everyday.
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31 Jan, 2025 by The pug commander
It was a pleasure working with Erica, she was professional and always answered any questions that I had. I’ll be forever grateful to her and I highly recommend her.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Greg jones
Ms. Rios took over my case after the passing of my attorney Mr. Parra who had worked so hard. I was very happy with the way Ms. Rios worked and was always in communication with me about my case. In the end I was very blessed to have Ms. Rios represent me. Ms. Rios paralegal Priscilla was a huge help as well and always in communication with me as well. Thank you both for a job well done. My family and I appreciate you very much.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Dwayne samuels
The best experience in the office real professionals
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31 Jan, 2025 by The pug commander
It was a pleasure working with Erica, she was professional and always answered any questions that I had. I’ll be forever grateful to her and I highly recommend her.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Greg jones
Ms. Rios took over my case after the passing of my attorney Mr. Parra who had worked so hard. I was very happy with the way Ms. Rios worked and was always in communication with me about my case. In the end I was very blessed to have Ms. Rios represent me. Ms. Rios paralegal Priscilla was a huge help as well and always in communication with me as well. Thank you both for a job well done. My family and I appreciate you very much.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Dwayne samuels
The best experience in the office real professionals
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18 Oct, 2024 by Nichole frescas
They are not for the ppl they are only here to protect the employer and personal gain. DONT WASTE YOUR TIME
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05 May, 2022 by Juan carlos hernandez
Excellent attorneys, I have been working with both Adriana and Diana for employment contracts and both of them are professional, knowledgeable and honest; I have been using their services for 6 years. They work hard and make the proper referrals if needed but that rarely happens since the are on top of their profession.
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27 Jul, 2019 by Jose grajeda
31 Jan, 2025 by The pug commander
It was a pleasure working with Erica, she was professional and always answered any questions that I had. I’ll be forever grateful to her and I highly recommend her.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Greg jones
Ms. Rios took over my case after the passing of my attorney Mr. Parra who had worked so hard. I was very happy with the way Ms. Rios worked and was always in communication with me about my case. In the end I was very blessed to have Ms. Rios represent me. Ms. Rios paralegal Priscilla was a huge help as well and always in communication with me as well. Thank you both for a job well done. My family and I appreciate you very much.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Dwayne samuels
The best experience in the office real professionals
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31 Jan, 2025 by The pug commander
It was a pleasure working with Erica, she was professional and always answered any questions that I had. I’ll be forever grateful to her and I highly recommend her.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Greg jones
Ms. Rios took over my case after the passing of my attorney Mr. Parra who had worked so hard. I was very happy with the way Ms. Rios worked and was always in communication with me about my case. In the end I was very blessed to have Ms. Rios represent me. Ms. Rios paralegal Priscilla was a huge help as well and always in communication with me as well. Thank you both for a job well done. My family and I appreciate you very much.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Dwayne samuels
The best experience in the office real professionals
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25 Sep, 2023 by Elizabeth carrizal
My son was in trouble and was blessed to have Mary Stilinger as his defense attorney. I knew nothing about her experience in law but could tell she knew what she was doing in court with her focus in detail of case and knowledge expressed to the judge with confidence and respect.
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15 Jun, 2023 by Joe espinosa
08 Jun, 2023 by John ramos
25 Sep, 2023 by Elizabeth carrizal
My son was in trouble and was blessed to have Mary Stilinger as his defense attorney. I knew nothing about her experience in law but could tell she knew what she was doing in court with her focus in detail of case and knowledge expressed to the judge with confidence and respect.
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15 Jun, 2023 by Joe espinosa
08 Jun, 2023 by John ramos
08 Feb, 2025 by Katherin hodet-sar
05 Jan, 2025 by Blue ruiz
I’ve used Wyatt underwood for all of my tickets and such, they are swift and the prices are great for what you get, 100/100 even recommended it to my husband which was also taken care of, no need to do nothing after that call!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Jorge barbosa
Mr. Underwood, Mr. Wyatt, Ms. Grasheim, and Mr. Avila, have all work together to help me on my case. I know I'm in good hands when they show up every single time I have to appear in court. They're there to help you and be there for you. Also the associates and paralegals that work in their office are always courteous and helpful. If I could give them 10 stars, I would.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Susie esparza
23 Jan, 2025 by Miss dominguez
Mr. Marc Rosales went above and beyond in representing the case and myself. Going over every detail finding all possible outcomes. I am more that pleased with the services they provide to my community and myself.
Thank you!.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Chad bob
I could hardly ask a question without being talked over, asked for more money or dismissed. Marc was professional chavira not so much. I do not recommend this firm unless you have endless funds.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Ivan nino
This law office represented me with the highest quality and integrity. When it comes to finding an attorney, it’s important to feel safe and heard. The attorney I worked with was Alejandra Valdez, she was able to ensure my case was taken care of and truly fought for my rights. I, 100% recommend and know that if I ever need their services in the future - they will have my best interest and defend me. Thank you Alejandra !
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06 Nov, 2024 by Susie miranda
Would leave zero stars if possible. Completely disappointed in this attorney and his team. I originally hired Victor Parra to represent me with my case. Unfortunately, he passed, and my case was taken over by Alejandra Yanez. We met shortly after my original attorneys passing and she stated several attorneys took on his cases to fulfill his legacy which was back in Jan of 2023. I would follow up frequently with emails and phone calls to which lead to nothing. I recently acquired another attorney, paid new set of fees to finish what this attorney could not do. Turns out my case was dismissed. Never was I updated or notified of court hearings or appearances. NOTHING!!! If you care about being updated and having clear communication.... THIS IS NOT THE ATTORNEY FOR YOU. I have countless emails that went and have gone unanswered.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Elida marquez
08 Nov, 2024 by Ivan nino
This law office represented me with the highest quality and integrity. When it comes to finding an attorney, it’s important to feel safe and heard. The attorney I worked with was Alejandra Valdez, she was able to ensure my case was taken care of and truly fought for my rights. I, 100% recommend and know that if I ever need their services in the future - they will have my best interest and defend me. Thank you Alejandra !
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06 Nov, 2024 by Susie miranda
Would leave zero stars if possible. Completely disappointed in this attorney and his team. I originally hired Victor Parra to represent me with my case. Unfortunately, he passed, and my case was taken over by Alejandra Yanez. We met shortly after my original attorneys passing and she stated several attorneys took on his cases to fulfill his legacy which was back in Jan of 2023. I would follow up frequently with emails and phone calls to which lead to nothing. I recently acquired another attorney, paid new set of fees to finish what this attorney could not do. Turns out my case was dismissed. Never was I updated or notified of court hearings or appearances. NOTHING!!! If you care about being updated and having clear communication.... THIS IS NOT THE ATTORNEY FOR YOU. I have countless emails that went and have gone unanswered.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Elida marquez
08 Feb, 2025 by Katherin hodet-sar
05 Jan, 2025 by Blue ruiz
I’ve used Wyatt underwood for all of my tickets and such, they are swift and the prices are great for what you get, 100/100 even recommended it to my husband which was also taken care of, no need to do nothing after that call!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Jorge barbosa
Mr. Underwood, Mr. Wyatt, Ms. Grasheim, and Mr. Avila, have all work together to help me on my case. I know I'm in good hands when they show up every single time I have to appear in court. They're there to help you and be there for you. Also the associates and paralegals that work in their office are always courteous and helpful. If I could give them 10 stars, I would.
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04 Oct, 2024 by John killen
I have hired Ruben in the past. Not only did he get my Felony DISMISSED but he's a really nice person. I'm here again with his firm. Dorin was really cool treated me professionally. Octavio is very impressive. Good Law Firm
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25 Jul, 2024 by Juan enriquez
Excellent customer service and very thoughtful. I recommend his services. Office personnel was great. Dorin was exceptional.
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01 Apr, 2023 by Brad randolph
19 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney was hired for $1500 kept putting off court for continuances never settled my case went to work as a public defender never offered even a partial refund
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20 Nov, 2012 by Linda
This man is not your typical lawyer, he truly cares for his clients needs. He is passionate about his job and a very humble man, which is hard to come by in a lawyer. He took the time to help me understand the law. He went out of his way to investigate my case before he was even officially hired. Compassionate, gentle, very knowledgeable, and he works with his wife, they are a great team... You can tell what kind of people they are by there work relationship. I would definitely recommend this firm! Thank you Edward and Maria for your hardwork!
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17 Apr, 2012 by Luci
Edward Hernandez is one of the most ethical, hardworking and compassionate attorneys in this city. He practices law for the love of his craft and concern for others. I would recommend him to anyone seeking to hire a family law or criminal attorney.
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15 Nov, 2024 by James andrews
I received a call from Mr. Jose Gandara of West Texas Process Service & Investigations on 8/15/2024. He explained he had an urgent matter that he needed service on in Madison, AL, and I quoted him $120 for 4 attempts on a RUSH service. I made multiple attempts to serve these documents, including early morning, mid-day, and evenings, but the person appeared to be out of town (confirmed with several neighbors). I had agreed on 4 attempts, but as a courtesy I made a total of 7 attempts. After pressing Mr. Gandara on how he would like to proceed, he told me to non-serve the documents and send my invoice for payment.
On 8/21/2024, I sent my invoice and have not received payment. I have sent multiple emails and made several phone calls, but he refuses to answer. After 4 emails about this invoice, he finally replied "Sorry …. Have we not paid you on this matter yet?" I replied confirming that the invoice has not been paid, and I included a link to pay the invoice online. He has disappeared again, and I have not received a response. I have sent more emails, made phone calls, and left messages.
I have mailed him a letter, both standard mail and certified, but both were returned to sender. This is a terrible way to do business, especially for a fellow process server that went above and beyond the original agreement in an attempt to resolve your legal documents service.
This is the first time I have ever left a negative review on any business, but I felt like it was important to not only warn other process servers but also any of his potential clients who like to work with honest and respectable businesses.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Jackie crawley
26 Aug, 2024 by Maisha smith
Bramblett is a great lawyer he’s always won my cases never had any issues. Keep up the great work Patrick Bramblett and staff.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Being military i found this lawyer at my base legal/jag office along with a list of low cost lawyers in the el paso area, Beware of this guy. He will talk a big game, tell you he understands military divorces and custody but as soon as you pay him he will brush your case off and find every excuse to not make your case a priority. Because i lived so close to his office it was easy for me to check in on progress on my case. I started services with this lawyer last march, when june came around i was deployed overseas and the only progress made on my case was the inital cause number and information, my spouse was never even served. Come july through october i could not reach him through any phone numbers listed or email, leaving messages and emails constantly asking about progress on my case. After recieving excuses and lies I gave up and sought services elsewhere, and No i have not gotten my money back. This lawyer talks a good game but does not work on your case, doesnt communicate and is anything but professional.
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14 Sep, 2020 by Regina
I hired Atty Copeland in about 2008. My inherited estate left to me was fraudulantly taken from me by adult step children. Although at that time , Atty Copeland had no experience on how to get my probate court issue to trial, this great and very smart and competent man learned by teaching himself how to bring it to trial. And to so many El Paso attorneys, they were in awe. That is what happens with him, a lot. He will blow the minds off doubters and scammers. He did get it to trial in El Paso Probate Court of The Honorable Patricia Chew. A very dishonest atty on Montana St who said to me, "The Martinez curse is when a person is called to account for all the things he has falsely bragged about it gets put in the light and the person is shown to be a person meant to suffer because there is no way he is what he has claimed to be". That man got his own Martinez Curse. Then he abruptly quit and continued to criminally file against me because he wanted to keep and still has my files. Copeland is a man of courage and commitment. And an honorable attorney. He will never get the Martinez Curse. But Mario got it and is still cursed and he will agree. But Atty Copeland is the epitome of what Americans see as the Proverbial Texas Lawyer. God made Atty Copeland so the country and specifically Texas, could know what heaven thinks a good Texan Attorney is. It IS Wm Copeland. I love him. I honor him.
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19 May, 2019 by George
Bill Copeland and his father before him have been handling our families legal affairs since 1972. We have found him to be attentive and offers good advice and counsel.
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05 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
MR. MORALES WAS AN OUTSTANDING CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY, WE DO NOT LIVE IN EL PASO BUT HE MADE EXTREMELY EASY FOR US AND FOUGHT HARD TO HAVE OUR CASE DISMISSED HIGHLY RECOMMEND FAST FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL
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27 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Morales was a court appointed attorney for me. When I requested a bench trial, I revealed to him that I have mental disabilities and at high risk for suicide. He told me not to tell him about it, but to seek professional help. I was arrested for a minor offense that has destroyed my ability to work in my chosen profession. He failed to link what my mental disability was like at the time of the charged conduct, and how this limited my reasoning and judgment. He didn't stress to the judge the certainty and severity of my impairment at the time of the incident, in an effort to pursuade the judge to acquit, dismiss or reduce the charge, so that I didn't lose my ability to support myself and retire from my career.
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15 Apr, 2013 by Crystal
Ruben morales was a great attorney he's been representing my family and I for the past 10 years and in all our cases he has been fully in to the case and kept us completely informed of our cases he settled my cases very well and really helped me in a time of frustration! If you want good representation I highly recommend him !! He did not promise anything and kept my whole case confidential! The only thing he promised is to fully be on my case and give me any possible options and advised me of what was best for my case.
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15 Nov, 2024 by James andrews
I received a call from Mr. Jose Gandara of West Texas Process Service & Investigations on 8/15/2024. He explained he had an urgent matter that he needed service on in Madison, AL, and I quoted him $120 for 4 attempts on a RUSH service. I made multiple attempts to serve these documents, including early morning, mid-day, and evenings, but the person appeared to be out of town (confirmed with several neighbors). I had agreed on 4 attempts, but as a courtesy I made a total of 7 attempts. After pressing Mr. Gandara on how he would like to proceed, he told me to non-serve the documents and send my invoice for payment.
On 8/21/2024, I sent my invoice and have not received payment. I have sent multiple emails and made several phone calls, but he refuses to answer. After 4 emails about this invoice, he finally replied "Sorry …. Have we not paid you on this matter yet?" I replied confirming that the invoice has not been paid, and I included a link to pay the invoice online. He has disappeared again, and I have not received a response. I have sent more emails, made phone calls, and left messages.
I have mailed him a letter, both standard mail and certified, but both were returned to sender. This is a terrible way to do business, especially for a fellow process server that went above and beyond the original agreement in an attempt to resolve your legal documents service.
This is the first time I have ever left a negative review on any business, but I felt like it was important to not only warn other process servers but also any of his potential clients who like to work with honest and respectable businesses.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Jackie crawley
26 Aug, 2024 by Maisha smith
Bramblett is a great lawyer he’s always won my cases never had any issues. Keep up the great work Patrick Bramblett and staff.
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10 Jun, 2021 by William
Recommended to me by a trusted friends who's also a local retired lawyer, my case is super difficult and most lawyers scared to take the case
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07 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Me. Lucas to fight a case on behalf of my wife. He has not bother to call me once since the case was submitted . Now the case came back from the court and untill this day I haven't heard from him even as I have called his office and left several messages with his secretary. He just took my money and didn't even bother to put up a fight with my wife's case . Do not hire this guy !
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15 Sep, 2018 by Sue wolf
Mr.Lucas helped me in my case which I had 3 lawyers before him and I almost gave up on the El Paso lawyers I personally recommend him and I wish him the best.
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02 Jan, 2025 by M a
Saved my life from heavy charges. I’m now doing what I wanna do thanks to this man, and god of course!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anna
I agree she's the worst lawyer she's only working for the money, you pay her and she goes against the other parent decisions, we are going to take her to court for what she is doing
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ray
Wish I could give them 0 stars . Trash attorney won’t care for your case . Horrible!!!
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20 Dec, 2018 by Jose
I hate the service from the staff. The guy is rude, they wont get to you back after asking questions about your case.THEY JUST STRAIGHT OUT DONT CARE ABOUT YOU JUST YOUR MONEY. I was refered to Ms. Solis by EZ Bail Bonds, seems to me that she has an arrangement with the guy from the bond to get customers. Almost am sure she did not do her best to help me with my case. She doesnt commit just tries to do what is easier for her. Please be careful, I definetely dont recommend this law firm. DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE HIRING HER OR ANY OTHER LAWYER.
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01 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I was very pleased with the service I received from Mrs. Solis and her wonderful staff. She helped me with my father's case, which was a criminal case. She and her staff kept constant communication with me, which always made me feel at ease. They were there for me every step of the way. I would recommend her to all!
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30 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
worst attorney you can hire she is very incompetent has no communication with her client and all she does is charge with no explanation of what she's charging you for. I unfortunately hire her for a juvenile case which was the worst mistake I ever did. I initially hired her because she was actually charging me less than other attorneys but just like the saying goes "You get what you paid for".. She did charge me less but I'm sure paying the consequences of hiring her.. If you believe in first impression then don't hire her the way she looks is the way she works on your case!
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18 Jan, 2025 by Deborah waddle
15 Oct, 2024 by Iremma cuellar
Spoke to front desk briefly about what I believe is a medical negligence case. She passed me on to the Boyaki lawyer, she said he would hear our case and let us know if he can help. Very bad mannered individual, he allowed me to introduce myself but didn’t let me speak after that. He started off with saying that it’s a diabetic case and therefore he is pessimistic about it. I asked him if he could hear me out first and then provide his opinion. He said no, he couldn’t help me and ended the conversation. I was confused, why did he allow me to get past his front desk person if his intention was to not listen to my case? Had his front desk said, “no we don’t take diabetic cases” or “no the lawyer doesn’t want to talk to you about your case,” I would’ve understood, other lawyers have said as much. I would have moved on to the next lawyer and not left this review. But the way everything transpired was unlike any experience I’ve had before with other lawyers, very rude and insensitive towards someone who is looking for help.
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10 Dec, 2023 by A z.
They are the best
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FAQs
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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:
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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.
