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Jubilo Lopes Afonso, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 220 reviews
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43,65
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4.9/5
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5.0
4 Reviews
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4.9
216 Reviews
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26 Nov, 2024 by Nicholas rodriguez
Terrific experience at Afonso Afonso. Definitely assisted my family in a time of need. Would highly recommend them.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Cristina regno
The best car accident lawyers in Elizabeth and Newark! Referred over by Cesar.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Steven gonzalez
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Raul J Pinto, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 56 reviews
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40,90
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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4.6
36 Reviews
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09 Nov, 2024 by Ana camacho
Raul Pinto was efficient, thorough, and quick to act. He listened patiently, collected evidence, and communicated in a way that instilled confidence. What I thought was the impossible, the case was resolved positively. The ability to communicate effectively made a world of difference in my case. If you need an attorney who truly cares about he clients, look no further!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Kathy pacheco
Raul is very knowledgeable and professional Thank you for helping us with our case. I highly recommend him. He is honest and will clearly explain what can be done and the most effective way to achieve results! Thank you Raul!!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Spark cams
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Danny T Matrafajlo, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 20 reviews
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39,62
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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14 Jan, 2021 by Jesus
Was going through a legal situation and didn’t know where to turn too asked around and they said to hire Dan once hired he went all out to make sure I was comfortable with him and was diligent in proving my innocence needless to say all charges were dismissed if you want a lawyer that is loyal and hard working this is your guy he won’t disappoint
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11 Oct, 2019 by Omar
DAN is a great lawyer!!!Far exceeded my expectations.. answered all my questions personally and walked me through the whole process... THANKS
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24 Jul, 2019 by Victoria
Dan has been my attorney for years and he will remain as my attorney as long as he is practicing. Dan has represented my family and I while selling and purchasing multiple homes, legal name changes, and creating a new company and that's just to name a few. In all cases, not only did he exceed our expectations, he was readily available when we had questions or concerns. All legal documents/contracts were completed in a timely manner and our best interest was always his priority. He never settles for less than best and that includes his hard working staff, which are an added bonus with their professional knowledge and kind manners. You can't go wrong with Dan as your attorney.
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Natalia C Diaz, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 17 reviews
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39,53
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
17 Reviews
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09 Aug, 2023 by Olga v
We had 2 cases with Ms. Diaz. Yes, she might be not the lawyer people expect her to be, however, our cases had great outcomes. Very smart and wise woman, very straight forward and doesn't sugar-coating the reality to her clients. Very transparent. She was always available when we needed her. She is not only your lawyer but also great psychologist. I am trully thankful to her. I always recommending her to my friends and family. In addition, her assistant is very nice and very helpful as well. Thank you ladies for all you do.
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13 Sep, 2022 by Maily pedraza
Mi experiencia con ella fue grandiosa, es muy buena abogada , excelente diría yo. Y le doy muchas gracias por todo .
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29 May, 2020 by Claudia
She is an excellent lawyer and very effective with her cases. I love your qorder and that of your secretary and her precision in everything I will highly recommend her
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Jorge L Hernandez, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 2 reviews
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39,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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12 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Hernandez to represent me on a Simple Assault case in Middlesex County . Not only did Mr. Hernandez get these false charges dismissed on the first court date but he made himself available 24/7 to answer any questions and to also reassure me he would fight for me . He answered every single one of my calls without hesitation.. Mr. Hernandez fees are very reasonable and worth every cent for the superior legal representation he offers . I highly recommend Mr. Hernandez . I will always appreciate what he did for me .
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12 Oct, 2010 by John
A true professional. Will always work for your best interest. There is nothing negative a can say about Mr. Hernandez or his staff. I always felt like I was being treated with the upmost respect.
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Candido Rodriguez, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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24 Aug, 2023 by Brigitte
It was a long time ago when I needed help with a motor vehicle issue's. His than girlfriend later wife. LISA Referred me to him. He only charged me $100.00 and Lisa got mad. He stood up for me when she changed the invoice. She used to say that I will be idriving his BMW by the end of the summer. She wanted a house and she quit her job without having to tbalk about it she took his credit card and got a 2500.00 cash advances andbought some new clothes. The list goes on. F
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Liliana L Quiroz, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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04 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Una persona excepcional, excelente servicio la recomiendo a quienes necesiten de un buen abogado!
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Scott C. Buerkle, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 215 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,87
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4.7/5
Avvo
3.7
3 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
212 Reviews
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18 Dec, 2024 by Yara bianchi
Mr. Centanni has provided excellent legal service. He is professional and very knowledgeable. Takes the time to answer your questions in depth. He is very honest and to the point. definitely would recommend his office.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Yanira
The lawyers are not helping the tenants they are taking cases for landlords only it makes sense why people are with out a home. We are defiantly in a crisis
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dante c.
Lawrence Centanni and his office provided expert guidance and remediation for complex landlord/tenant/squatter situation. They immediately understood the situation and were able to receive a judgement quickly. Eileen, the expert attorney managing the case, in addition to the entire office were prompt and professional. Thank you to all involved
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Frank P. Beninato Jr, experienced Adoption, Business attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 79 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,38
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4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
79 Reviews
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29 Dec, 2024 by Bill enneking
Danny is a great attorney. He has the knowledge of the law and care for his clients. Highly recommend.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Malik lopes
I couldn’t be any happier with my experience with attorney Alyssa Inghilleri. She is undoubtedly the most professional attorney that I’ve had the pleasure of work with. She’s driven, she’s fierce and most importantly, caring in her line of work and I would pick her on my team hundred times over. I could say the exact same about Dan and his team as well. They exceeded my expectations and they are without a doubt, the best attorneys in the state. Thank you for everything!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Kyle tavares
I had a great phone call with Miranda. I called this law firm to see if I was even interested to be represented and she totally convinced me that an attorney was the right option. I ended up talking to Anthony and he explained everything to me and i knew instantly they were the right choice.
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Herman L Alarcon, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 20 reviews
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35,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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22 Sep, 2023 by Elvis
Mr herman took care all my ticket thanks you... definitely recommend need a lawyer call me herman l Alarcon you will be in good hands
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03 Oct, 2022 by Brenda
Sr. Alarcon muy exelente lo recomiendo es un abogado que te brinda confianza y mucho apoyo encontrando solucion a todo problema estoy contenta y agradecisa muchas gracias muy exelente...
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25 Jan, 2022 by Paulina
Mr. Alarcon is very professional and understanding attorney. He has the ability to calm you down and all is well at the end. I do recommend him very highly.
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Peter J. Morales, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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24 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
I hired this lawyer to represent me in a divorce. He was very accessible and knowledgeable with the law and how the law related to my particular case (child support, alimony, custody). I was very pleased to have him represent me throughout my divorce and was very satisfied with the result.
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Vincent J Sanzone Jr, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 10 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,68
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
10 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2023 by Natalie
Vincent is an amazing professional lawyer. He took all my cases and seriously saved my life! He is empathetic, passionate, strong, and knows what he is doing! My family and I are beyond thankful to have found him!
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08 Jul, 2022 by Lydia
Don’t even waste your time with this dishonest lawyer. He haves very bad bedside matters, And he swindles his clients out of there money and time. Be careful of the sheep and wolf clothing cause he is sure one. Do not give this lawyer your time or money he is a unprofessional and very very unprofessional and bad attitude towards client. Don’t use him learn from the rest of us on his reviews and his responses should show that if you really read his response to people who write real reviews about him being unprofessional and bad bedside manners. This lawyer is a joke and take it face value and don’t lose your money people!!!!!!!!!!!!
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22 Aug, 2019 by Maxene oskar
Mr Sanzone is very professional and knowledgeable about my case. Also very tough. He took my criminal case at the last minute and both my TRO and criminal assault cases were dismissed in no time. I would recommend everybody to use his services. I'm very happy for the service he has been provided. Thank you again Mr Sanzone. You're a very good lawyer.
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Diene Hernandez-Rodriguez, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 18 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
18 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Sep, 2023 by Nathalie privat
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star star star star star
09 Aug, 2023 by Kimberly mallamaci
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star star star star star
23 May, 2023 by Rodney rivera
professional and most important honesty
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Charles Dawkins Jr., experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 24 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,20
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
24 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Diego herrer
I cannot recommend Miguel Garcia highly enough! From start to finish, he demonstrated authentic care about my case and his incredible expertise, dedication, and attention to detail was evident from our very first meeting. He took the time to understand every aspect of my case and provided clear, insightful guidance every step of the way. He answered every question I had, and his calm, confident demeanor gave me peace of mind throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients and goes above and beyond, Miguel is the one to go to. Thank you again Miguel.
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22 May, 2024 by Shaneeka wood
Google Maps
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11 Jan, 2024 by Andy perez
Miguel Garcia is an extraordinary lawyer whose authentic care and meticulous approach truly distinguish him. He goes beyond just listening; he expertly strategizes to vigorously fight for your case. With unwavering determination and assertiveness in the courtroom, he skillfully secured my release in what seemed like an impossible situation. I recommend Miguel Garcia! He's the advocate you want in your corner.
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Michael Garcia, experienced Criminal Defense, Sex Crime attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 24 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,20
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
24 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Diego herrer
I cannot recommend Miguel Garcia highly enough! From start to finish, he demonstrated authentic care about my case and his incredible expertise, dedication, and attention to detail was evident from our very first meeting. He took the time to understand every aspect of my case and provided clear, insightful guidance every step of the way. He answered every question I had, and his calm, confident demeanor gave me peace of mind throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients and goes above and beyond, Miguel is the one to go to. Thank you again Miguel.
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22 May, 2024 by Shaneeka wood
Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2024 by Andy perez
Miguel Garcia is an extraordinary lawyer whose authentic care and meticulous approach truly distinguish him. He goes beyond just listening; he expertly strategizes to vigorously fight for your case. With unwavering determination and assertiveness in the courtroom, he skillfully secured my release in what seemed like an impossible situation. I recommend Miguel Garcia! He's the advocate you want in your corner.
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Ricardo L Del Rio, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,71
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
4.1
8 Reviews
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16 May, 2023 by Rudy
I had to call him several times to set-up an initial meeting. He was a no show and had to reschedule. He was supposed to send me a retainer but couldn't even do that. I tried to contact him but has been MIA since.
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19 Aug, 2016 by Jmontalvo
Mr. Del Rio is the best lawyer ever. He represented me twice, once for not completely stopping at the stop sign and he got the points down to zero and all I had to do was pay the fine. The second time I was going 20 miles overs the speed limit and once again Mr. Del Rio worked his magic and and got my points reduced to NOTHING and I just paid the fine... I would recommend him to everyone.
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04 Feb, 2016 by Alina
Es el mejor abogado en estos casos y en cuestiones de licencias. Se entrega de una forma apasionada a sus casos. Tengo 9 años usando sus servicios y nunca me he arrepentido. Dios lo bendiga.
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Clifford E Lazzaro, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Jorge L. Hernandez, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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7,00
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0.0/5
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Elvin Perez, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
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0.0/5
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Michael B Campagna, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,61
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
3 Reviews
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28 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Worst attorney ever you will never get any information from him. He will demand money but he will never deliver. He will miss court dates. He will never inform you that he missed the court date. You will get one-sided judgment as I got . he will tell you that it was the judge decide to do it on his own since most of the people are not lawyers or have much knowledge of law. He will keep you under wraps. if you ask anybody at his office, what’s going on nobody knows anything there is a new secretary every week. That means nobody knows what’s going on. You will never get a hold of this guy. He will never tell you what’s going on in your case. I promise you in your case there is gonna be a point when you gonna start wondering is this guy working for you or for the opposite party?
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25 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Only thing he want is money . He don’t care what happened to you ! He’s too old to care
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25 Apr, 2014 by Jessica
He failed to represent my father. We paid the retainer fee for him to specifically represent my father on a violation of probation case in which all probation time was served. The only thing that he did wrong was leave the country but he was unaware that he was still on probation and had to notify the probation officer. My father has memory deficit, all probation conditions were met, and the three years of probation was served. Mr. Campagna pushed back the date for my father to see Judge Moniyhan for 20 days after being held so he can gather "facts" and then saw my father 2 weeks after we hired him and the day before seeing the judge he failed to prepare my father for what to expect the judge to say and how to respond. The day that my father went before Judge Moniyhan Mr. Campagna did not represent him at all. My father spoke for himself and was very nervous and did not know what to say and did not respond well to the Judge's response. When Judge Moniyhan asked Attny Campagna if he wanted to say anything, he stated, "No and thank you" after Judge Moniyhan gave a court date of May 16th another 20 days for my father to await sentencing. When we asked Attorney Campagna why he chose not to say anything or to present termination of probation or reinstate probation or why he didn't explain to the judge that my father was nervous, he state that my father already messed himself up by saying too much. We paid him for nothing and wasted our money. He seems to not be a compassionate attorney that would fight for his clients. We wasted money on him when he could have received a public defender and saw the judge much sooner and perhaps be home with his family right now.
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Roy Konray, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Ashton E Thomas, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brett M Rosen, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with  reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0/5
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Vincent S Rispoli Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Workers Compensation attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Herman Alarcon, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Karyn Rita Weingarten, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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John Gerard Esmerado, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Bruce Merritt Holmes, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Robert A Ungvary, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Ann M Luvera, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Elizabeth, NJ with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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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:

  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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