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25 Oct, 2024 by Oscar marshall
I started my claim thinking I knew what I was doing and found out the hard truth. I have a friend that recommended Kay Tracy to help me with my claim and the bottom line is I won my claim with Kay. From the beginning till the very end Kay kept me informed, but as some reviews started. Kay goes out of her way to make sure you win your case. Thanks’ for all your hard work and dedicated support. I truly appreciate and respectfully would recommend Kay Tracy.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Matthew-lee.
I am immensely grateful for the incredible work Laina did on my case. What started as a phone call to report a serious road rage incident turned into a nightmare, with the Napa police filing multiple felony charges over a defensive statement I made during the call. This situation should have never escalated the way it did. The police took my frustration—expressed after dealing with constant harassment from officers—and attempted to give me two strikes for it.
The road rage incident itself was frightening: a person got out of their vehicle during a fit of road rage and began approaching me aggressively, forcing me to drive away for my safety. During the call to dispatch, I vented about how the police had been harassing me. Though I regret my choice of words, the context of provocation should have been obvious.
After months of zero progress with a public defender who didn’t seem to know what he was doing, my family hired Laina. She came into the case late—near the end of my 14 months—but her expertise turned things around. Laina genuinely sympathizes with people of color and is acutely aware of the unjust nature of the legal system. She effectively navigated the complexities of my case, addressing the incompetence that had been present in my defense. Laina saw through the prosecution's exaggerated narrative and successfully reduced my multiple felony charges to just one (Penal Code 71 for threatening an officer). After I completed my mandatory supervision, she helped me get that charge expunged, clearing my record, which is now just as it was before all this happened. This was my first and only charge, and Laina's work allowed me to remove this unfair burden.
Since my release, I have completed my degree in biology from San Francisco State University, maintained a healthy lifestyle with daily exercise and a plant-based diet, and continued to receive counseling and support from professionals who highly recommend me. While I believe the harassment I faced from Napa officers should have been more effectively addressed by the justice system, I’m grateful for the justice I received with Laina’s help. Her expertise gave me a second chance to live my life freely without the impediment of a felony.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is skilled, compassionate, and relentless in her pursuit of justice, I highly recommend Laina. She made a tremendous difference in my life, and I will always be grateful.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Audrey
Will answer questions with a phone call! Such an amazing lawyer who will answer calls without a being in office hours.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Marco
I hired Pamela as my attorney after I was injured from being rear ended on the freeway. She was quick to reply and explain what my options were for legal action. Pamela always answered every single question with the upmost professionalism and kept me in the know through our legal process. She was inmy corner every step of the way and we were successful in achieving a resolution that exceeded my expectations. I think the time and investment needed to attain her services paid off enormously in the end. Be patient, as I learned through experience that some of these legal situations can be long and tiring but well worth their value in the end. Especially if you have Pamela handling your case. Thank you again for everything Pamela and I wish you all the best!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Antoinette crosby
Chad Johnson and his team were exceptional! Highly professional, knowledgeable, and prompt in responding to my phone calls and emails. Chad guided me through this challenging process effortlessly. I strongly endorse him if you require a bankruptcy counsel.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Carl tilchen
11 Dec, 2024 by Susan malak
15 Nov, 2024 by Ron bowen
My family is very grateful to Vince and his team. They helped us through a tough situation.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Kai cat
Atty Maher is the best of the best!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Oscar marshall
I started my claim thinking I knew what I was doing and found out the hard truth. I have a friend that recommended Kay Tracy to help me with my claim and the bottom line is I won my claim with Kay. From the beginning till the very end Kay kept me informed, but as some reviews started. Kay goes out of her way to make sure you win your case. Thanks’ for all your hard work and dedicated support. I truly appreciate and respectfully would recommend Kay Tracy.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Matthew-lee.
I am immensely grateful for the incredible work Laina did on my case. What started as a phone call to report a serious road rage incident turned into a nightmare, with the Napa police filing multiple felony charges over a defensive statement I made during the call. This situation should have never escalated the way it did. The police took my frustration—expressed after dealing with constant harassment from officers—and attempted to give me two strikes for it.
The road rage incident itself was frightening: a person got out of their vehicle during a fit of road rage and began approaching me aggressively, forcing me to drive away for my safety. During the call to dispatch, I vented about how the police had been harassing me. Though I regret my choice of words, the context of provocation should have been obvious.
After months of zero progress with a public defender who didn’t seem to know what he was doing, my family hired Laina. She came into the case late—near the end of my 14 months—but her expertise turned things around. Laina genuinely sympathizes with people of color and is acutely aware of the unjust nature of the legal system. She effectively navigated the complexities of my case, addressing the incompetence that had been present in my defense. Laina saw through the prosecution's exaggerated narrative and successfully reduced my multiple felony charges to just one (Penal Code 71 for threatening an officer). After I completed my mandatory supervision, she helped me get that charge expunged, clearing my record, which is now just as it was before all this happened. This was my first and only charge, and Laina's work allowed me to remove this unfair burden.
Since my release, I have completed my degree in biology from San Francisco State University, maintained a healthy lifestyle with daily exercise and a plant-based diet, and continued to receive counseling and support from professionals who highly recommend me. While I believe the harassment I faced from Napa officers should have been more effectively addressed by the justice system, I’m grateful for the justice I received with Laina’s help. Her expertise gave me a second chance to live my life freely without the impediment of a felony.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is skilled, compassionate, and relentless in her pursuit of justice, I highly recommend Laina. She made a tremendous difference in my life, and I will always be grateful.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Audrey
Will answer questions with a phone call! Such an amazing lawyer who will answer calls without a being in office hours.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Diego
I really recommend him 100%, I am an immigrant person and he really helped me a lot in the process I needed and he is very responsible and very professional. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!!
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05 Oct, 2017 by Sylvia
my husband and I are so happy with the hard work and dedication to help and represent my husband and his case was not an easy one but we were able to get threw it .. I 100% recommend him to any one that needs his assistants he is always so attentive and will return your calls and keep you updated on your case .we are so happy and thank full for his services!!!
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26 Jan, 2016 by Nore c.
Francisco Vera is HIGHLY knowledgeable and skillful in his field of work. He is very professional and knew all of the answers to my questions as well as the approach of the law in general to effectively perform his job. I felt as if he was very attentive to my needs and has a great level of professionalism to do his job. I couldn't be more satisfied with his services.
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24 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Mr. Regner for criminal defense and he unbiased laid out my options for me. I felt very comforted with the honest defense he advised me on. I beleive that attorneys do not come around this often that care for their clients as much as Mr. Regner did. I highly recommend him.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Oscar marshall
I started my claim thinking I knew what I was doing and found out the hard truth. I have a friend that recommended Kay Tracy to help me with my claim and the bottom line is I won my claim with Kay. From the beginning till the very end Kay kept me informed, but as some reviews started. Kay goes out of her way to make sure you win your case. Thanks’ for all your hard work and dedicated support. I truly appreciate and respectfully would recommend Kay Tracy.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Matthew-lee.
I am immensely grateful for the incredible work Laina did on my case. What started as a phone call to report a serious road rage incident turned into a nightmare, with the Napa police filing multiple felony charges over a defensive statement I made during the call. This situation should have never escalated the way it did. The police took my frustration—expressed after dealing with constant harassment from officers—and attempted to give me two strikes for it.
The road rage incident itself was frightening: a person got out of their vehicle during a fit of road rage and began approaching me aggressively, forcing me to drive away for my safety. During the call to dispatch, I vented about how the police had been harassing me. Though I regret my choice of words, the context of provocation should have been obvious.
After months of zero progress with a public defender who didn’t seem to know what he was doing, my family hired Laina. She came into the case late—near the end of my 14 months—but her expertise turned things around. Laina genuinely sympathizes with people of color and is acutely aware of the unjust nature of the legal system. She effectively navigated the complexities of my case, addressing the incompetence that had been present in my defense. Laina saw through the prosecution's exaggerated narrative and successfully reduced my multiple felony charges to just one (Penal Code 71 for threatening an officer). After I completed my mandatory supervision, she helped me get that charge expunged, clearing my record, which is now just as it was before all this happened. This was my first and only charge, and Laina's work allowed me to remove this unfair burden.
Since my release, I have completed my degree in biology from San Francisco State University, maintained a healthy lifestyle with daily exercise and a plant-based diet, and continued to receive counseling and support from professionals who highly recommend me. While I believe the harassment I faced from Napa officers should have been more effectively addressed by the justice system, I’m grateful for the justice I received with Laina’s help. Her expertise gave me a second chance to live my life freely without the impediment of a felony.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is skilled, compassionate, and relentless in her pursuit of justice, I highly recommend Laina. She made a tremendous difference in my life, and I will always be grateful.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Audrey
Will answer questions with a phone call! Such an amazing lawyer who will answer calls without a being in office hours.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Oscar marshall
I started my claim thinking I knew what I was doing and found out the hard truth. I have a friend that recommended Kay Tracy to help me with my claim and the bottom line is I won my claim with Kay. From the beginning till the very end Kay kept me informed, but as some reviews started. Kay goes out of her way to make sure you win your case. Thanks’ for all your hard work and dedicated support. I truly appreciate and respectfully would recommend Kay Tracy.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Matthew-lee.
I am immensely grateful for the incredible work Laina did on my case. What started as a phone call to report a serious road rage incident turned into a nightmare, with the Napa police filing multiple felony charges over a defensive statement I made during the call. This situation should have never escalated the way it did. The police took my frustration—expressed after dealing with constant harassment from officers—and attempted to give me two strikes for it.
The road rage incident itself was frightening: a person got out of their vehicle during a fit of road rage and began approaching me aggressively, forcing me to drive away for my safety. During the call to dispatch, I vented about how the police had been harassing me. Though I regret my choice of words, the context of provocation should have been obvious.
After months of zero progress with a public defender who didn’t seem to know what he was doing, my family hired Laina. She came into the case late—near the end of my 14 months—but her expertise turned things around. Laina genuinely sympathizes with people of color and is acutely aware of the unjust nature of the legal system. She effectively navigated the complexities of my case, addressing the incompetence that had been present in my defense. Laina saw through the prosecution's exaggerated narrative and successfully reduced my multiple felony charges to just one (Penal Code 71 for threatening an officer). After I completed my mandatory supervision, she helped me get that charge expunged, clearing my record, which is now just as it was before all this happened. This was my first and only charge, and Laina's work allowed me to remove this unfair burden.
Since my release, I have completed my degree in biology from San Francisco State University, maintained a healthy lifestyle with daily exercise and a plant-based diet, and continued to receive counseling and support from professionals who highly recommend me. While I believe the harassment I faced from Napa officers should have been more effectively addressed by the justice system, I’m grateful for the justice I received with Laina’s help. Her expertise gave me a second chance to live my life freely without the impediment of a felony.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is skilled, compassionate, and relentless in her pursuit of justice, I highly recommend Laina. She made a tremendous difference in my life, and I will always be grateful.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Audrey
Will answer questions with a phone call! Such an amazing lawyer who will answer calls without a being in office hours.
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18 Oct, 2017 by Tim nelson
I’ve had a few lawyers help me in the past 20 years. Mr Honeychurch is by far head and shoulders above them all. He is the ultimate professional. While he had to make the disclaimer that almost anything can happen in a dui case, he made everything happen in my favor and even better than his own prediction...which was already better than anything I would expect out of a 3rd dui. Don’t get me wrong. I did things to help myself along the way. I also followed his direction to a T! He is amazing. He certainly cared about the outcome of my case.
Thank you Mr Honeychurch!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Frank fernandez
06 May, 2020 by Queenerica88888
Ms Tiffany Evans was my attorney for a court case I had. I highly recommend her! She was professional and responsive.
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06 Mar, 2020 by James reineck
Ms. Evans was outstanding! Throughout the entire process she was there supporting and helping us win.
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25 Dec, 2017 by Arestotle laus
I like this place.. because this is where I work.
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22 Apr, 2017 by Nick drysdale
25 Oct, 2024 by Oscar marshall
I started my claim thinking I knew what I was doing and found out the hard truth. I have a friend that recommended Kay Tracy to help me with my claim and the bottom line is I won my claim with Kay. From the beginning till the very end Kay kept me informed, but as some reviews started. Kay goes out of her way to make sure you win your case. Thanks’ for all your hard work and dedicated support. I truly appreciate and respectfully would recommend Kay Tracy.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Matthew-lee.
I am immensely grateful for the incredible work Laina did on my case. What started as a phone call to report a serious road rage incident turned into a nightmare, with the Napa police filing multiple felony charges over a defensive statement I made during the call. This situation should have never escalated the way it did. The police took my frustration—expressed after dealing with constant harassment from officers—and attempted to give me two strikes for it.
The road rage incident itself was frightening: a person got out of their vehicle during a fit of road rage and began approaching me aggressively, forcing me to drive away for my safety. During the call to dispatch, I vented about how the police had been harassing me. Though I regret my choice of words, the context of provocation should have been obvious.
After months of zero progress with a public defender who didn’t seem to know what he was doing, my family hired Laina. She came into the case late—near the end of my 14 months—but her expertise turned things around. Laina genuinely sympathizes with people of color and is acutely aware of the unjust nature of the legal system. She effectively navigated the complexities of my case, addressing the incompetence that had been present in my defense. Laina saw through the prosecution's exaggerated narrative and successfully reduced my multiple felony charges to just one (Penal Code 71 for threatening an officer). After I completed my mandatory supervision, she helped me get that charge expunged, clearing my record, which is now just as it was before all this happened. This was my first and only charge, and Laina's work allowed me to remove this unfair burden.
Since my release, I have completed my degree in biology from San Francisco State University, maintained a healthy lifestyle with daily exercise and a plant-based diet, and continued to receive counseling and support from professionals who highly recommend me. While I believe the harassment I faced from Napa officers should have been more effectively addressed by the justice system, I’m grateful for the justice I received with Laina’s help. Her expertise gave me a second chance to live my life freely without the impediment of a felony.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is skilled, compassionate, and relentless in her pursuit of justice, I highly recommend Laina. She made a tremendous difference in my life, and I will always be grateful.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Audrey
Will answer questions with a phone call! Such an amazing lawyer who will answer calls without a being in office hours.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Monica de la torre
20 Apr, 2024 by Producer gold tone
Typical ambulance chaser with a rude secretary.. don't hire an attorney who is disrespectful.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Diamondtiera walker
Polite, efficient, and very knowledgeable.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Steven ladringan
26 Sep, 2024 by Jagjit dhillon
25 Sep, 2024 by Bahram hakhamaneshi
The best decision I made after getting a ticket for speeding over 100mph, was to hire the Choyce Law Firm to defend me in the court. They managed to get my traffic case dismissed despite the case going to full trial! I highly recommend the Choyce Law Firm without reservation.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Desirae cardwell
20 Jan, 2021 by Ashley
I was super guilty and the da was not trying to give me a break. I ended up being sentenced to 6 months with 3 years of probation. He put it off as long as he could and with my priors and the charges, I was dealt a fair hand.
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05 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Even though I was guilty as fu** David put his heart and soul into my case . He never denied a phone call, if it could not be handled over the phone he ALWAYS made it in to see me. Best Lawyer EVER!! from the C family
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07 Oct, 2024 by Melissa
Justin belittled me consistently and billed every second without answering the questions I had. He would interrupt when I was trying to clarify the legal process. His out of country location makes him hard to use for in person family court with an aggressive style and lack of patience or compassion.And would not meet expectations that he had set.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Rita arriola
Justin Kirk Tabayoyon was a blessing to me. I was served with papers to not take my son out of state two days before my move, even though my sons father agreed on my move, and only had one entire day to find an attorney before my hearing. I interviewed several attorneys and chose Justin because he seemed so knowledgeable about the local law enforcement, legal admin and judges. It was a very difficult time in my life and he made it all possible for my son and I to move out of state in an acceptable timely manner. He wasn’t the cheapest attorney, but I’ve gone down that road before and accomplished nothing. Ive never had any billing issues with him. Either way, fighting anything is not cheap and I say he was worth EVERY penny. Thank you so much Justin Kirk Tabayoyon!!!
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26 Jan, 2024 by Rodney burba
I was charged $1800 for putting the files he requested into the wrong file in Dropbox. I still haven’t gotten the refund.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Marcey schultz
For a divorce with no children, 7 years and over $100 thousand dollars in attorney fees for a result that left my husband with everything accumulated during a 20 year marriage. I could have received the same outcome for free and saved years of agony and stress.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Anon ymous
Unprofessional and total waste of thousands of dollars.. Multiple court dates and almost worse off then before retaining Miranda. Barely anything that was discussed over phone and emails (which you get charged big $$ for) oh and also discussed on court days with Miranda and opposing counsel, did not get put in judgement worded properly and or not included so now I'm held to an order that is incorrect but they had no problem collecting the money. Nightmare. Opposing side is now using this judgement as a leg up and now children are suffering.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Lauren eli
Miranda is an unprofessional! It's important for her to choose the clients she wants during consultations, it’s not for you to get legal advice! By the way , you need look rich when you meet her!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Marcey schultz
For a divorce with no children, 7 years and over $100 thousand dollars in attorney fees for a result that left my husband with everything accumulated during a 20 year marriage. I could have received the same outcome for free and saved years of agony and stress.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Anon ymous
Unprofessional and total waste of thousands of dollars.. Multiple court dates and almost worse off then before retaining Miranda. Barely anything that was discussed over phone and emails (which you get charged big $$ for) oh and also discussed on court days with Miranda and opposing counsel, did not get put in judgement worded properly and or not included so now I'm held to an order that is incorrect but they had no problem collecting the money. Nightmare. Opposing side is now using this judgement as a leg up and now children are suffering.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Lauren eli
Miranda is an unprofessional! It's important for her to choose the clients she wants during consultations, it’s not for you to get legal advice! By the way , you need look rich when you meet her!
Read more
20 Mar, 2023 by Shelly o.
Pressing charges against someone who already suffers from abuse and trauma-related depression for having a mental breakdown? The D.A. should be thoroughly ashamed. Cruel and inhumane. Came to a black church to fish for votes while helping police slowly kill off a black woman. Good job, Krishna. 👍👍
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05 Aug, 2022 by D l
I've had to go there a couple of times the district attorney herself was awesome the people at the window aren't always the friendliest
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08 Aug, 2021 by Teresa millet
Very unprofessiona Post articles about people that haven't even been convicted yet. I hope one day she will get accused of something she didn't do
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20 Mar, 2023 by Shelly o.
Pressing charges against someone who already suffers from abuse and trauma-related depression for having a mental breakdown? The D.A. should be thoroughly ashamed. Cruel and inhumane. Came to a black church to fish for votes while helping police slowly kill off a black woman. Good job, Krishna. 👍👍
Read more
05 Aug, 2022 by D l
I've had to go there a couple of times the district attorney herself was awesome the people at the window aren't always the friendliest
Read more
08 Aug, 2021 by Teresa millet
Very unprofessiona Post articles about people that haven't even been convicted yet. I hope one day she will get accused of something she didn't do
Read more
20 Mar, 2023 by Shelly o.
Pressing charges against someone who already suffers from abuse and trauma-related depression for having a mental breakdown? The D.A. should be thoroughly ashamed. Cruel and inhumane. Came to a black church to fish for votes while helping police slowly kill off a black woman. Good job, Krishna. 👍👍
Read more
05 Aug, 2022 by D l
I've had to go there a couple of times the district attorney herself was awesome the people at the window aren't always the friendliest
Read more
08 Aug, 2021 by Teresa millet
Very unprofessiona Post articles about people that haven't even been convicted yet. I hope one day she will get accused of something she didn't do
Read more
20 Mar, 2023 by Shelly o.
Pressing charges against someone who already suffers from abuse and trauma-related depression for having a mental breakdown? The D.A. should be thoroughly ashamed. Cruel and inhumane. Came to a black church to fish for votes while helping police slowly kill off a black woman. Good job, Krishna. 👍👍
Read more
05 Aug, 2022 by D l
I've had to go there a couple of times the district attorney herself was awesome the people at the window aren't always the friendliest
Read more
08 Aug, 2021 by Teresa millet
Very unprofessiona Post articles about people that haven't even been convicted yet. I hope one day she will get accused of something she didn't do
Read more
20 Mar, 2023 by Shelly o.
Pressing charges against someone who already suffers from abuse and trauma-related depression for having a mental breakdown? The D.A. should be thoroughly ashamed. Cruel and inhumane. Came to a black church to fish for votes while helping police slowly kill off a black woman. Good job, Krishna. 👍👍
Read more
05 Aug, 2022 by D l
I've had to go there a couple of times the district attorney herself was awesome the people at the window aren't always the friendliest
Read more
08 Aug, 2021 by Teresa millet
Very unprofessiona Post articles about people that haven't even been convicted yet. I hope one day she will get accused of something she didn't do
Read more
20 Mar, 2023 by Shelly o.
Pressing charges against someone who already suffers from abuse and trauma-related depression for having a mental breakdown? The D.A. should be thoroughly ashamed. Cruel and inhumane. Came to a black church to fish for votes while helping police slowly kill off a black woman. Good job, Krishna. 👍👍
Read more
05 Aug, 2022 by D l
I've had to go there a couple of times the district attorney herself was awesome the people at the window aren't always the friendliest
Read more
08 Aug, 2021 by Teresa millet
Very unprofessiona Post articles about people that haven't even been convicted yet. I hope one day she will get accused of something she didn't do
Read more
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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:
-
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.
