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29 Feb, 2024 by Angelinarae
Absolutely phenomenal legal representation! From the moment I reached out, this lawyer demonstrated unparalleled expertise, dedication, and compassion. Their strategic approach, attention to detail, and courtroom prowess resulted in a favorable outcome beyond my expectations. I highly recommend James and his services to anyone in need of top-notch criminal defense. Thank you for your exceptional advocacy!
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16 Apr, 2021 by Shelly battee
Attorney Moffa and all staff I dealt with have been kind, helpful and responsive. I never felt alone or unimportant throughout this long process. Received my check today and off th the bank I will go.
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28 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
James provided excellent counsel. He reviewed the facts of the case and communicated all of the available options and explained the pros and cons of each potential outcome. James used his knowledge of the system to expedite the matter. He handled all of the painstaking paperwork and contacted the various parties to move the case through the system. The ability to manage and expedite the matter allowed me to move forward with my life which can be very difficult when facing a large obstacle.
Overall, James exceeded my expectations and I would retain him in the future due to his professionalism, attention to detail, and diverse skill set (e.g., management, law/court system knowledge, communication, etc.)
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24 Jan, 2014 by Steven
Amanda was the best lawyer I have ever had. She went out of her way to beat my case. Amanda was completely understanding of my situation and has been assisting me for years and has never been distrustful or disloyal. I thank you Amanda for everything.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Shelly battee
Attorney Moffa and all staff I dealt with have been kind, helpful and responsive. I never felt alone or unimportant throughout this long process. Received my check today and off th the bank I will go.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Francis. flanagan
04 Feb, 2024 by Monisa boutiette
Atty Nolan was in bed with the DA's office under Michael O'Keefe's rule. He set my daughter up and worked with the DA to lock my daughter up. After 5 1/2 years of waiting for trial, he left my daughter no choice but to take a deal, which he lied to her about the specifics. He said she'd be home in 3.8 years yet no one in MCI Framingham can tell us when she's getting out.
Like most women who end up in the legal system, my daughter was a victim of domestic violence, at the hands of her accuser, before she became a defendant, and Attorney Nolan treated her like a common criminal instead.
In the end, our family didn't have the courage or wherewithal to hire a new attorney as we had already paid attorney Nolan and his crew an exorbitant amount of fees. We also never saw any of the results of the work from the experts he hired and we paid for. We are convinced Atty Nolan was hiding exculpatory evidence uncovered by the experts, as he continually refused to present to the court exculpatory evidence presented to us by the state.
At every turn, if we found contradictory information against the state's evidence, Atty Nolan would blatantly ignore the facts presented and do what HE wanted INSTEAD OF WHAT HIS CLIENT WANTED. He also ignored most emails and phone calls to his office from my daughter's camp over the 5 1/2 year period that we dealt with him.
Two weeks after my daughter's incarceration, attorney Nolan posted on his Facebook page that he was endorsing for District Attorney, the prosecutor who initially pressed charges against my daughter (I accused this prosecutor of malicious prosecution and provided the evidence to attorney Nolan to support it, which he completely ignored, as he defended the prosecutor saying that the prosecutor, Dan Higgins, was a "good guy" and that the prosecutor's father was a former FBI agent and reasoned that Higgins wasn't capable of malicious prosecution because of that.)
Also, the ADAs on the case are guilty of providing false information in their documents and briefs presented to the court, atty Nolan either willingly ignored the discrepancies or he simply isn't a savvy enough attorney to have caught them. I personally believe he ignored the blatant lies purposely, I base that on my total personal experience with him during my daughter's court case.
My daughter is black, gay and dresses masculine, she's also a bigger girl, which is worse than being black or gay in many Cape Codders' eyes. I feel that she ended up in prison due to these factors and these factors alone. I believe that Attorney Nolan along with law enforcement on Cape Cod, took one look at my daughter and determined her guilt based on her looks, race, sexuality and size.
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29 Feb, 2020 by Sandee pike
Great lawyer
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12 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
No follow up from them what-so-ever!!!!! If Atty.Nolan tells you he or his secretary will call you with an update, it is a lie - it happened to me at least twice! I had a time sensitive issue that I stressed needed to be addressed quickly... Almost 2 weeks after bringing it to his attention, I receive an invoice in the mail requesting payment upfront BEFORE ACTION WILL BE TAKEN. I called the office to try and expedite the situation but the secretary informed me they don't take credit cards. Why didn't anyone think to inform me of this need for payment earlier???? Because I could easily have put a check in the mail the day of the invoice rather than 2 weeks after the invoice was written bc it was sitting in the mail!!!!! (I live out of state so it's not like I could just drive a check over.) Not only was I now already delayed for 2 weeks, but then after the case I was told I would get a call to let me know when it was complete, and they just never bothered calling to tell me!!! I finally gave up on waiting (1 month after I was told they would call) and called the office myself to check in. When I found out they just didn't call me I told the secretary I was disappointed in their unprofessional service, and she started making excuses and giving me a hard time. These people got over $1000 from me for very little work and I really wish I could have given that money to someone else who would have actually cared about providing their clients with the service they deserve! 2 stars because at least the job was completed successfully.
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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:
-
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.
