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25 Jan, 2024 by Brooks baker
26 May, 2022 by Carlos reyes
Kent is very caring and an amazing person and will help you every step of the way
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19 Jan, 2022 by Hannah dodson
17 Sep, 2024 by Hal
I would have been better off ordering a DIY mediation kit. Kim lost control of my ex and our mediation from the very get go, which eventually took three rounds. Tony was nice, but unreliable and needless. Additionally, if I had taken their advice I would be out several $100k. Look elsewhere, you should expect better.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Teri
Kelsey will not do any thing except adequate paperwork. If you dare ask her for help with anything else she will gas light you, say you are a difficult, that you are a problem client. She makes you sign a contract that you cannot refer to anyone else for information or she will dump you. She charges 3 times as much as other divorce lawyers for her incompetence. She is especially worthless with men.
She is so horrible I give her up to God.
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28 Aug, 2024 by James w borges
17 Sep, 2024 by Hal
I would have been better off ordering a DIY mediation kit. Kim lost control of my ex and our mediation from the very get go, which eventually took three rounds. Tony was nice, but unreliable and needless. Additionally, if I had taken their advice I would be out several $100k. Look elsewhere, you should expect better.
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28 Aug, 2024 by James w borges
22 Aug, 2024 by Heather clifton
Leaving my previous attorney and hiring Kimberly was the best decision for my difficult case. She is extremely knowledgeable, professional, and takes the time to listen. She fought for what was right and fair. I would absolutely recommend her and Tony for mediation and any legal matters.
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25 Oct, 2024 by April lawson
20 Aug, 2024 by Tenia jones
I should not have hired them. My settlement was way less than what I could have gotten on my own. Lesson learned.
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21 May, 2024 by Shanette clouse
The team at Odom Law was amazing. They make you feel like a family member and treat you with importance and understanding. I will always from this point forward call on Odom Law for any and all legal needs.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Kelly pfeifer
Sammi was an absolute life saver!! We live in Texas and my daughter got a ticket in Arkansas on her way to college in Pennsylvania. This was my daughter’s first ticket and being a teenager, she just mailed in the citation with a note stating she wanted to take driver’ ed. (Bless her heart.) With me being in TX, dear daughter in PA, and traffic court in AR, we needed help to get this straightened out. Sammi to the rescue! She was so helpful and kind and quick and helped us get this situation resolved lickety-split!! We are so grateful for her assistance!!!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Bauhaus fronr242
Mrs wilmoth is excellent
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26 Jul, 2024 by Matthew devick
25 Jan, 2024 by Brooks baker
26 May, 2022 by Carlos reyes
Kent is very caring and an amazing person and will help you every step of the way
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19 Jan, 2022 by Hannah dodson
18 May, 2024 by Jesus trujillo
David Lee worked our case and did an exceptional job. He is professional, polite, helpful and happy to work with you on your case. He communicates well through out the process, he is patient with any questions or concerns you may have and explains everything thoroughly so you know exactly what’s going on.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Scott eby
I regret to say that my experience with this law firm, particularly attorney Kate Hill, was incredibly disappointing. I scheduled a consultation appointment with Kate after her assistant assured me that there were no conflicts of interest that would prevent her from representing me. However, after Kate spoke with my ex-wife's attorney, who happened to be my opposition, she suddenly claimed that a conflict existed, rendering her unable to represent me in any future matters.
It is deeply concerning that Kate's decision seemed to be influenced by conversations with the opposing party's attorney. This indicates a lack of integrity and independence on her part, which are essential qualities for any lawyer. A lawyer's primary duty should be to advocate for their client's best interests, not to bow to pressure from the other side.
Overall, my experience with this law firm, particularly with attorney Kate Hill, has left me questioning their professionalism and commitment to their clients. I would caution anyone considering their services to proceed with extreme caution, as their actions suggest a weak and easily swayed legal representation.
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20 Sep, 2023 by James marshall
Victoria has represented me in 4 cases at 2 different law firms for civil and criminal. She's great, cares about her clients and highly recommended. She is a bulldog in the courtroom and won everything she represented me in. Thank you!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Kelly pfeifer
Sammi was an absolute life saver!! We live in Texas and my daughter got a ticket in Arkansas on her way to college in Pennsylvania. This was my daughter’s first ticket and being a teenager, she just mailed in the citation with a note stating she wanted to take driver’ ed. (Bless her heart.) With me being in TX, dear daughter in PA, and traffic court in AR, we needed help to get this straightened out. Sammi to the rescue! She was so helpful and kind and quick and helped us get this situation resolved lickety-split!! We are so grateful for her assistance!!!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Bauhaus fronr242
Mrs wilmoth is excellent
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26 Jul, 2024 by Matthew devick
09 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Andrea Mccurdy did an amazing job handling my case! I am able to spend time with my family without facing the cage, I really do want to thank you for hard work and effort you have put into my case. I highly recommend anyone to give her a call and I know shell do her best to get the job done. Thank you once again Andrea!
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21 Jul, 2022 by Kyle
After searching and browsing the web and several days of reading reviews I believed I had finally found a lawyer to contact. Upon contacting Andrea and discussing my case with her I was reassured that this could all be resolved and I would be reunited with my children. Andrea was hired in approximately January 2022 in which I began to send all documentation supporting the facts that the mother of our children was willfully and against judges orders with-holding our children from me the father and for absolutely no good reason. Shortly here after communication with Andrea had began to lack. Lacking so much to the point of no communication for several weeks. At this time I reached out to her assistant Alex Fittin whom then informed me that she no longer works for this law firm but would reach out to her and let her know that I have been attempting to make contact. Several days later I received an email stating that she would make contact and I was again reassured that she was working on this matter and would be in touch as soon as something was founded. Again several days and weeks had passed with no communication. I began calling multiple times throughout the day in attempt to make contact via phone with no resolve. I then emailed to only get reply that she was on vacation and would be back in touch once she returned.Again several days passed and multiple phone calls and emails sent before receiving a brief phone call that she is contacting the mothers attorney in which I informed her I do not believe she has one at this time. Andrea said she was contacting her previous attorney as he (Andrew Hatfield) would still know how to reach her . July 1, 2022 I received an email stating that she had some documents drawn up and would be calling that following Tuesday to discuss with me. It is now July 21, 2022 several more phone calls and emails have been sent with no response and my church and wife have also been attempting to make contact none of which have heard back either. I feel I am back at square one bit with more distrust in lawyers as I have never felt so mislead and taken as I do now. This law firm unfortunately fits the profile that so many people already have the mindset and believe about lawyers and how they do people.
And if anyone doubts the above statement please Feel free to contact me via Facebook at Kyle Kuhn it’s picture of my wife, son and myself I will be glad to share the multiple attempts and much more.
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05 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Wonderful lawyer! She was able to help me and my family. She was always reachable. She was very knowledgeable and seemed really experienced.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Luz morlet
I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel Bush a few years back when my son needed an adjustment on his immigration status during a challenging time in his life. I cannot express how grateful I am for her expertise and dedication with his case. From the very first consultation, Rachel demonstrated a deep understanding of immigration law and provided clear, actionable advice tailored to my son´s unique situation.
What impressed me most was Rachel's unwavering commitment to my son´s case. She was always available to answer our questions, no matter how small, and ensured we fully understood every step of the process. She made a complex and overwhelming process feel manageable, and my son was able to become a Permanent Resident of the United States of America, thanks to her dedication.
When it was my turn to adjust my immigration status, both, Rachel Bush and Itzy Castorena not only were incredibly knowledgeable but also compassionate and empathetic. They took the time to listen to my concerns and worked tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for my case. Their attention to detail and thorough preparation gave me confidence and peace of mind. Thanks to Rachel Bush and her team, my process was successful, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.
If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer who is professional, dedicated, and genuinely cares about their clients, I highly recommend Rachel Bush and her team!
Thank you, Rachel and Itzy, for your exceptional service and dedication!
Luz M Morlet and Sebastian Pina Morlet
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18 Jul, 2024 by Mariana guzman
I would like to start by saying thanks to all the team members at Bogart, Small + Associates. Especially, Itzy Castorena, who helped us out on both our cases.
Me and My husband have used there services a couple times, the first time with a permit we were trying to acquire with a DACA Recipient trying to visit Mexico.
And our last visit was in regards to our status here in the country.
Both times the team have explained the procedures and possible outcomes, and all the steps involved with the complicated paperwork. There is alot to fill out but the team makes it easy during the process. And any questions you may have they are more than glad to help with.
What I had assumed was a headache/nightmare was made very easy by there team, I am very happy with there proffesionalism. Given the fact that everyhting we did was through the phone and email.
I live in Chicago with my husband but was recommended by good friends, and i definitely reccomend anyone else that needs help to give them a call.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Vanessa ceniceros
A family member recommended Bush in 2018 I was so happy to be able to find an immigration lawyer that could understand my case I was able to get an advance parole thanks to her and the staff they were always very nice and answered any question I could have. Again I wouldn’t choose any other immigrant office I went back to file another case after 6 years and they were able to work with me on time and couldn’t be more happy and grateful that I was able to find them, I recommend them 💯 %
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.3
60 Reviews
13 Aug, 2024 by Luz morlet
I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel Bush a few years back when my son needed an adjustment on his immigration status during a challenging time in his life. I cannot express how grateful I am for her expertise and dedication with his case. From the very first consultation, Rachel demonstrated a deep understanding of immigration law and provided clear, actionable advice tailored to my son´s unique situation.
What impressed me most was Rachel's unwavering commitment to my son´s case. She was always available to answer our questions, no matter how small, and ensured we fully understood every step of the process. She made a complex and overwhelming process feel manageable, and my son was able to become a Permanent Resident of the United States of America, thanks to her dedication.
When it was my turn to adjust my immigration status, both, Rachel Bush and Itzy Castorena not only were incredibly knowledgeable but also compassionate and empathetic. They took the time to listen to my concerns and worked tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for my case. Their attention to detail and thorough preparation gave me confidence and peace of mind. Thanks to Rachel Bush and her team, my process was successful, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.
If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer who is professional, dedicated, and genuinely cares about their clients, I highly recommend Rachel Bush and her team!
Thank you, Rachel and Itzy, for your exceptional service and dedication!
Luz M Morlet and Sebastian Pina Morlet
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18 Jul, 2024 by Mariana guzman
I would like to start by saying thanks to all the team members at Bogart, Small + Associates. Especially, Itzy Castorena, who helped us out on both our cases.
Me and My husband have used there services a couple times, the first time with a permit we were trying to acquire with a DACA Recipient trying to visit Mexico.
And our last visit was in regards to our status here in the country.
Both times the team have explained the procedures and possible outcomes, and all the steps involved with the complicated paperwork. There is alot to fill out but the team makes it easy during the process. And any questions you may have they are more than glad to help with.
What I had assumed was a headache/nightmare was made very easy by there team, I am very happy with there proffesionalism. Given the fact that everyhting we did was through the phone and email.
I live in Chicago with my husband but was recommended by good friends, and i definitely reccomend anyone else that needs help to give them a call.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Vanessa ceniceros
A family member recommended Bush in 2018 I was so happy to be able to find an immigration lawyer that could understand my case I was able to get an advance parole thanks to her and the staff they were always very nice and answered any question I could have. Again I wouldn’t choose any other immigrant office I went back to file another case after 6 years and they were able to work with me on time and couldn’t be more happy and grateful that I was able to find them, I recommend them 💯 %
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11 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Mrs. Howerton represented me through my rock bottom and went above and beyond to get me the best outcome possible. Best lawyer around!!
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30 Aug, 2023 by Koree roberts
If there was an option for 0 stars, it'd be at least a -4.. IF YOU ARE GOING THROUGH ANY TYPE OF CUSTODY BATTLE, ABSOLUTELY DO NOT USE THIS MAN'S SERVICES. That is, if you genuinely want your kids to remain in your life.
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06 Jul, 2023 by Matthew holmes
The experience with Mr. Freeman was amazing! He worked very hard for us over the last year on our case and was there for us the entire time. He won our case and I was able to adopt my stepson!
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05 Jan, 2016 by Anja
Absolutely love Scott. He is flavorful in personality, knowledgeable in his profession, professional in his demeanor, and fierce in the courtroom. Hired him for three separate matters, and in each one, he handled it quickly and gave me realistic expectations that I was very pleased with. Pleased with the outcomes and genuine appreciation for this person.
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09 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
The BEST family law attorney in Arkansas. He was honest and direct with me and knew the law. Great at communicating my rights and expectations. I would have him represent my child and that is the highest recommendation I could give any attorney.
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11 Apr, 2013 by Adam
I used Scott for a family law trial and he was very well prepared and extremely knowledgable about my case and the law. I interviewed several attorneys before hiring Scott and was not disappointed. I should have known to go with him immeditately when his name kept coming up time and again as a recommendation. I highly recommend him on any legal matter.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Mary
I have used James for previous matters of mine and referred many of my friends and family members to him. He is an attorney that goes above and beyond to get the job done. He has never let me or anyone I know down. I highly recommend him to anyone and continue to do so whenever anyone asks me if I know a good attorney.
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13 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I have used James a couple of times for mostly paperwork agreement type things. I'm impressed with both his legal knowledge as well as understanding of human nature and how the real world works. I would not hesitate to recommend James for legal representation, especially if you need someone both aggressive and understanding. He gets it done.
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11 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
James Hornsey represented me in my divorce and he was extremely knowledgeable. I honestly would be very afraid to be on the team opposing him, since he is seriously tough as nails when it comes to knowing the law and defending your rights. I was amazed, just when I thought he had pulled out all of his cards in our case, he pulled out even more and it was just a wipeout for the other side and their lies and things they had pulled. I thank God I had his as my attorney or things would not have been so great for me since the other side was playing not-so-nice.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Misty d simpson
Please do not use this law firm. Stephen vowel was completely unprepared for my case. He did not go after the information that was needed he did not review the information that he had he did not prepare for the case whatsoever. He did not go over what he was going to ask me before we went to court. I have called the manager of the office with no return phone call. I have emailed the owner of Taylor law firm with no return email. I've also received an additional bill for $2697 with the majority of that bill being time he spent studying guardianship. I told him at our first meeting that I needed someone who was very Adept in this situation because it would need a lot of work to get to where we needed to go. He didn't do the work and he let an old Madison County attorney get the best of him and my dad is still being abused. Do not use this firm
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24 May, 2024 by Wade henson
Terrible experience with Matt Benson. Always promises things and never delivers. Been trying to get contempt charges drawn up for at least 12 months and he takes my money but doesn't do anything then needs more money. I had mediation and he left in the middle of the mediation. Chris came in and was helpful but still Chris didn't know anything about the case. I will say Sol Kim while he was at Taylor Law Partners was the best attorney I have personally ever been around. Unfortunately he is no longer with the firm. I can't even get ahold of Matt to fire him.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Andrea adair
13 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Charles (Chuck) to deal with a speeding ticket I received in Lakeview Arkansas. The town is a bit of a speed trap and has very few residents, but can pay quite a bit for their police vehicles it seems. Regardless, I was speeding and given a ticket. I contacted Chuck to handle my case and he did a great job. The City of Lakeview was very non-responsive so when it came down to a court date he listened to my concerns and drove there to the clerk's office in the small town of Lakeview to try and correct the problem. At that point, they were even saying I was failing to appear at court after he had mailed them and been trying to contact them. The City of Lakeview should be ashamed for being unprofessional and not following the legal process as they should be. Chuck got the case taken of and I'd hire him again if I ever ran into a legal issue in Arkansas. A+
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21 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I gave him money to start paperwork for an emergency custody hearing, and still will not return my calls or emails. (This has been more than 6 months) His phone was even been disconnected for a short time and I assumed he disappeared and still no response!!! He also filed paperwork with the court for contempt against my ex-husband for non payment and he never followed up with that case either!!! Why aren't more people upset?!?!?!
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15 Sep, 2013 by Hal
My wife and I were basically thrown into his lap by default. This is one of the best things that ever happened to us. If you can go through life never needing a attorney that's great. If you find yourself in need, Charles R Chadwick has been a GREAT family lawyer for us. He has proven to be a powerful litigator, balanced with a likability in court which in our experience wins cases!!!
The last time we were in court ( 7/22/2013 ) with Charles, the Defendant told us the only reason we won was because, quote ... "You had a better attorney". Indeed !!!
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21 Oct, 2024 by Kuarzo
17 Jul, 2024 by Sara alvarez
29 Sep, 2023 by Trevor kaluza
Great lawyer and very dependable and does payment plans! :)
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01 May, 2024 by Charles
He took my money to get my record sealed and then I never heard from him again. Definitely a scummy lawyer. I would find someone else.
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27 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I got into trouble after a tragic family accident. Mr. Pirani took the time to listen to me. I/He knew my career was on the line. Listen to him. He is the best attorney I've had since living in AR for 33 years.
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03 Jun, 2019 by Brad
Toni took my case when no one else would. I was feeling abandoned. But I received a call back from Toni and all my feelings of abandonment went away. Thank you for believing in me.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This attorney is horrible and does not have your kids in her best interest. She’s all about the money and taking sides without seeking truth on both sides. Between her, the other attorney and the judge….. it’s a fricking 3 ring circus! No justice whatsoever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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20 Feb, 2023 by Matthew henderson
After my marriage 3 months ago, I applied for a home loan, so that I and my wife could move to a better apartment, but I got a negative reply, which I was told was a result of my credit score. When I pulled my score it was below average. I had $12,000 student loan, some credit card debt, charge off and an eviction. PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST helped me erase all the above negative reports and boosted my score to excellent in less than 6 days. I’m recommending them to any one in need of credit assistance. Contact them via EMAIL:
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22 Jan, 2017 by Kris and sarah
Buffy always got back with us if we had any questions. She's very understanding and works hard to take care of your needs. Me and my wife had to take my ex back to court to get some things changed up with the custody of my children. I couldn't be more happier with the results. She worked on a payment plan for me and my wife. And she worked her tail off. If you need a good understanding caring attorney please call this woman. She was a blessing to my family.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Brenda
Paid them to represent myself, only to have them retire before my case was complete
Now dealing with a attorney they sent me to.. only to find out that they didn't send any information or paperwork to. And new attorney tells me that Wayne Youngs office shredded all documents !! Expected now to start from scratch with a very short time frame. Can't get ahold of anyone who worked there. They up and vanished not to be found.
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09 Dec, 2020 by Steven
His firm took my son for 2000.00 and didn't even file his paper work. We can't get him are anyone to answer the phone. This is not over yet. I am going to get a hold of the attorney General in Little Rock.
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30 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
my car accident was more than 2 years ago and i still dont have my money. I accepted the insurance company offer in october. now 4 months later, i am told the same thing every time i call. mr. young has not had time to look at the papers so his secretary can tell the insurance company that i accepted it and send me my money.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Terry has been representing me for years and I’ve seen nothing but exceptional work from him. If you want a lawyer that will listen to you and hear you but at the same time be truthful with you and also get you the least possible time…. Then this is the guy. I speak from many years of experience using Terry in various counties and also several different types of cases. He is amongst the best. I’m not sure who the idiots were that gave negative reviews but don’t listen to them!
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23 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I agree with the two previous reviewers. I was not pleased with the service provided by Terry Harper and would not recommend him to a friend.
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13 Dec, 2016 by Bob
I used Terry in a felony criminal case. Besides one offer Terry suggested I take them all. Luckily I did not take his advice to accept a felony plea and ended up with a misdemeanor. I can only speak for myself but I would use a public defender before using Terry again.
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23 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Legally speaking, he did the job he was hired to. Ethically speaking, he crossed the line. Lawyers shouldn't be sleeping with their clients.
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03 Jan, 2019 by To whom it may concern
Hired him for DWI, mistake number one. Never had time to call me. He got me a sorry plea deal. I don’t think he talked to DA until court which royalty screwed me. he is not a DWI lawyer avoid like the plague
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08 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Steven Kay's law firm to represent me in my divorce. Communication is severely lacking with this firm. I was apprised of several important facts pertaining to me case - after the fact- and only when I questioned things. I did not receive a bill for several months because - unbeknownst to me - the firm was in the process of updating it's accounting software. Instead of apprising me of that fact - I was slammed with a bill several months later - and an email - telling me all legal services would cease until I remitted payment in full PLUS an additional retainer fee. I was essentially penalized for the firm's lackadaisical ways of doing business. When I asked for them to work with me on a payment plan due to their lack of communication, I was essentially told that they only thing "lacking" was my ability to make payment. A friend of mine who is a local attorney has informed me that this firm has a terrible reputation in town - that - they are considered "stupid" by other law firms. Now I understand why. If I could do things differently, I would have retained another attorney. Do yourself a favor - avoid this law firm like the plague. They are solely interested in money, not providing quality services to their clients.
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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.
