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5.0
14 Reviews
4.7
15 Reviews
02 Oct, 2024 by Anthony
Very knowledgeable in law!
Will do the best for you!
Would recommend, retain and relax!!
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07 Dec, 2023 by Karlen harris
25 Dec, 2022 by Tee tee
He took my money and I never heard from him again.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Jessica heard
I spoke with James at this law firm and he was very helpful and knowledgeable. I would recommend them to anyone. He was very pleasant to speak with!
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27 Dec, 2024 by T hood
I reached out to the Clifton Law Firm, and I was very pleased with my consultation. He listened to my complaint and gave me the up most respect. An he followed up very quickly on what could be done on my very complicated case.
Thank you,
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19 Sep, 2024 by Amber n
Mr. Clifton was excellent for our situation. I asked a question and he answered quickly and politely. He was very friendly and gave us the information to help us decide to proceed with our case. I was very impressed with him and his firm. I would HIGHLY recommend James Clifton and The Clifton Law Firm.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Earle
I highly recommend for anyone and everyone looking for a great Georgia attorney to hire Mr. Johnson. He did a great job with my case and I am highly satisfied with the results. He’s the best!
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24 Oct, 2023 by Harry
I am pleased with the outcome of my case and I thank Attorney Johnson for his communication throughout the process. 5 stars!
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22 Oct, 2023 by Ruby
My attorney Mr. Derrick Johnson is the best lawyer in the state. I don’t know where I would be without his help on my personal injury case last year. He certainly was a great help to me and updated me regularly with new information. I will be using his services again. Thanks
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5.0
5 Reviews
4.9
51 Reviews
09 Nov, 2024 by Tyshe tharpe
12 Sep, 2024 by Nixon henry arevalo baron
Morrison evidentemente son los abogados más experimentados, tuve un accidente de tránsito en donde mi auto fue perdida total, ellos llevaron mi caso y siempre estuvieron en comunicación con migo, finalmente lograron una buena recompensa. Felicitaciones por tan excelente trabajo.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Erica peavy
Morrison and Hughes is extremely knowledgeable and will work hard to make sure their clients are taken care of. I highly recommend them.
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17 Dec, 2018 by Chance
All around helpful, Developed a personal relationship along the way and understood my needs and concerns. Answers all my questions as I was very concerned over my situation and still helpful to this day. He helped me with my case and did the most he could!
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15 Dec, 2018 by Antwuan
MR Overman was excellent handled everything before i even showed up, very professional and efficient at what he does and wont stop fighting until he gets the results he promised, plus he has the best prices out of every attorney office though out the state, i will/would use him for every future issues if any
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14 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
This man knows what he is doing! I will definitely be saving his number! Great personality, really makes you feel comfortable and confident in his abilities.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kenneth myrick
26 Sep, 2024 by Sally tanner
31 Jul, 2024 by Michael dunbar
Mr. Barbour is the man ! 2 cases both went in my favor, I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Highly recommend if you need council you go to him first. I’m a happy camper.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Warren macdiesal
Great communication and results were fair. Would most def recommend. STOP here give them a call ASAP, Ms. Duvernay does a phenomenal job at her craft. Thanks again!!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Sharika berry
I was fortunate to have Hill Duvernay represent me. Duvernay technically top-notch, but even more importantly she genuinely cares about her clients and their families. She is tough when needed, but does so with grace. I trust her completely, have the utmost confidence in her abilities and would recommend her for any and all cases.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Michelle anderson
The lawyer is very pleasant and respectful. I. My experience may not be your experience when I call this Law Firm I let Diego that my insurance would not be taken responsibility for this accident. I asked him if they could still represent me. He said yes, they would get a copy of the police report. And try to get the charges dismissed. My first meeting with the lawyer representing this Law Firm was with a young lady. She came late to the courthouse, she wanted me to fill out a pretrial intervention form. I informed her that I couldn't fill out that form because my insurance was not taking responsibility for this accident. She asked me how do you know the insurance company has to take a responsibility? I said because it's written on the the paper. She said well let's fill it out anyway, she filled it out. I asked the young lady to have Miss Duvernay call me. When Miss Duvernay called me, I said, I had informed you that I my insurance was not taking responsibility for this accident. So I don't know I can't do the pretrial intervention. She said, you didn't inform me because I don't answer the calls. I said well I am from Santiago, she said you mean Diego I said yes maybe we can get it dismissed on the fact that he didn't give you a police report. We're on the same page now I understand. Now before my next court date I called Diego to ask him to describe the person that was coming to meet me if it wasn't going to be Miss Duvernay. He said , well we only work with two other ladies so it would be one of them preview when I got to the courthouse a gentleman call me on the phone asking me where I was located. He said I'm here to pick up the pretrial intervention form. I said okay I'm getting frustrated now I've already told Miss Duvernay is that my insurance is not taking responsibility for this accident. So he went and got a copy of the form, he said I read it I was hoping it didn't indicate that's the insurance had to take responsibility for the accident but it does. Miss Duvernay call me later that evening, she said, I thought you wanted to go ahead with it. I said that I can't do pretrial my insurance is not taking responsibility for the accident. A court date was set and missed, because I wasn't informed of the court date I just happened to check my mail, while checking my mailbox I realize that he got a failure to appear. The first thing I did was to send a message to Miss Duvernay. When she sent me a message back it started off with: "first of all..."The Law Firm did send a lawyer to go fix it. Her name Kristen Clark. I was told to wait for my next court date, the law firm would inform me. I did not believe them so I called for my next court date. They did not show, there were two other court date set they did not show for either one of those court dates. The judge even called the law firm they still miss the court date. It took a Google review Duvernay and the chargeback. She told me she had conflicts in the court should have known about it. There was only one problem she wasn't assigned to my case unless she was Kristen Clark. She did show up the next court date, but during the third Miss court date I was asked, if I wanted a public defender, I said yes. But when Ms Duvernay asked me to give her a chance I said okay since it wasn't her that was supposed to show up. Now I was told signed up with this Law Firm they would get a copy of this police report. But the public defender delivered it to me and I had to take it to the law firm. On the trial date we were supposed to meet at 9:15 because the trial was at 10:00. Miss Duvernay as with every court appearance we made she came at 9:40, I could excuse that but at 9:40 was when she told me all the evidence I had ,was usable. They had the information for a year. My Insurance indicated that they were looking at the cars damages. She did not ask for the pictures. So we went in the court with nothing. I had a diagram of the damage. Miss Duvernay asked, what's that? It was then I realized that nothing I uploaded was looked at.
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25 Mar, 2022 by Diana
Melissa helped me win a very complicated custody battle against my Ex husband. She kept it very professional and helped me win this case. I think she is the best and I would have not won this case without her knowledge and experience.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Katlyn
I cannot even begin to express the amount of gratitude I have for Melissa. My court proceedings have gone on for a year now. It didn't matter if it was 10:00 at night. Melissa always answers her phone. She has been the calm to my storm. After more than four court dates (not by her fault) I was able to receive everything I asked for in my order.
not only was she there for legal support but she supported me emotionally through the whole thing.
I've actually continued to recommend her to family and friends and she has been there fully for them as well.
I could not be more grateful to someone like her in my life!
It actually almost brings me to tears to think about how much she has done for me. Melissa you are amazing! I'm not sure how you felt about our victory in court but to me you are the prosecutor in New York XXX
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18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Sanford delivered an immaculate performance in court for my friend. She (friend) was in an ugly custody battle with an ex and she held her hand every step of the way. She came prepared for every hearing, was extremely organized both clerically and mentally as she made her points in court. She fought like a lion for her and her children. She is very passionate and quick on her feet. I know that if I ever need something legally I'm coming straight to her. She mic drops like a boss!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kenneth myrick
26 Sep, 2024 by Sally tanner
31 Jul, 2024 by Michael dunbar
Mr. Barbour is the man ! 2 cases both went in my favor, I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Highly recommend if you need council you go to him first. I’m a happy camper.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Tyshe tharpe
12 Sep, 2024 by Nixon henry arevalo baron
Morrison evidentemente son los abogados más experimentados, tuve un accidente de tránsito en donde mi auto fue perdida total, ellos llevaron mi caso y siempre estuvieron en comunicación con migo, finalmente lograron una buena recompensa. Felicitaciones por tan excelente trabajo.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Erica peavy
Morrison and Hughes is extremely knowledgeable and will work hard to make sure their clients are taken care of. I highly recommend them.
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4.3
17 Reviews
4.6
39 Reviews
15 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Charged more than the normal fee yet there wasn’t anything complicated. Lacked follow up and communication. I was always reaching out for updates. Case took almost two years and never heard anything back regarding the case just a letter. Met multiple times and really nice but I think he takes on morecases than he can handle. He came highly recommended.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
I was wrongfully accused of 12 counts of 1st degree felonies and 1 misdemeanor. David and his WONDERFUL team were hired I believe a week after being incarcerated I retained him to represent me. He fought time and time again to get me out of jail against the crooked county I was in but they always seemed to find a way to set David back but he NEVER gave up. After about 10 months we finally were about to go through trial but go figure, the DA was not ready still and then David demanded that I be let out on at least bond and the judge granted me a signature bond with an ankle monitor on all charges. That’s just the first small battle won. In the midst of all this I had a juvenile case come about regarding custody of my children and his team took that case load on as well but we will come back to that in a moment. From the time of retaining him to the day I was released on bond to the weeks to days before trial they stayed in contact with me and went over plans and everything with me almost every single week on how we need to go through this trial what to expect what not to expect the whole 10 yards. Just a reminder, they’re planning for this trial and also having to plan and go through the juvenile case as well so I can only imagine how exhausted they are at this point. So trial comes which took two weeks maybe even two weeks and a couple days but we were there from 8:30 in the morning until those lights shut off most days and they STILL met with me every single day to go over new angles to go at this whole thing. We get through all that and now we get to the verdict and all they’re hard work paid off. Not guilty! Second battle won! Then we get to just the juvenile case and that took some time with getting all the scheduling to match up with EVERYBODY involved but here we are almost 3 years from the start of this thing and we got my babies home!!!!! We’re not quite through the mud yet but I’ve got 1000% confidence in them to bring this thing to a happy ending. I know this has been a lot but just these few words is not even close to enough to show or express how amazing David and his entire staff are. I would hire David again and again for anything else in life as long as he is still a lawyer.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer
From the first phone call, I felt my case was in the right place. My questions were answered, and I was kept informed as things progressed. It took some time as the court system has been full but I was always in the loop on how things were doing and with what I should expect next. The entire staff was personable, knowledgeable and courteous throughout the whole time. Hopefully not needing services again, but I know if I ever do - Mr. Ballard is definitely who I will call.
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03 Apr, 2014 by Stephanie
Jorge was always spot on when I needed him. He made this painful process as easy and he could.
He was very professional, informative, and easy to consult with.
Thanks Jorge!
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02 Mar, 2014 by Harry
Jorge was very professional in handling my divorce. He kept me informed and told me what to expect. I was very impressed from start to finish. It took just a little over a month from start to finish to get the divorce finalized. He was there every step of the way. This aloud me to move on in my life. I highly recommend using his services.
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21 Feb, 2014 by James
My experience with Jorge Carabajal was an outstanding one! He always kept in contact with me to keep me informed with my situation at hand. He is very knowledgeable about the law and never steered me in the wrong direction with the decisions that I had to make. Never once was I told that I had any surprise or hidden fees like I've received from past councils. I definitely recommend Mr. Carabajal to any of my friends or family... or anybody for that matter.
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02 Aug, 2010 by Marsha
Rhonda Bender Kreuziger did an excellent job at handling a most difficult legal case that took many unexpected turns. She excels in researching the law as it applies to the individual case and in explaining the legal process to clients with no legal background. She also did an excellent job in representing our company in several courtroom settings and in helping us navigate through the legal system to get the desired results. Rhonda Bender Kreuziger is diligent and focused and even worked all night on one occasion to prepare for an emergency court hearing. I would highly recommend her services.
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22 Jul, 2010 by James
I have had the pleasure of working with Attorney Rhonda Kreuziger in her handling of several of my family legal issues. Let me state clearly, that Rhonda places your mind at ease when dealing with legal issues. She's very calm and methodical when reviewing your case, and she makes sure that your legal matter is her primary concern during her consultation with you. As a side note, let me reveal that Rhonda has resolved satisfactorily every single family legal issue that we presented to her. As a member of the Military, integrity and competence are two important traits that I seek in hiring an attorney. I can state without hesitation that Rhonda exhibits both of these traits. Finally, don’t just take my words, call her for consultation, and you will witness the experience for yourself.
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14 Jul, 2017 by Kimberly
Mr. Imhoff is the best attorney that the public defender office has. I sat in Fayette County Jail for 11 months waiting to go to court. I was assigned an attorney that was with the county for many years and I wrote to him many times and did not get a reply in January I caught new charges I within the jail. I was assigned a new attorney to defend my case and that was Mr. Imhoff.
I had my previous attorney for 6 months and he did absolutely nothing except allow my file to sit on the D.As desk.
Mr. Imhoff was my attorney for only 1 month if that and he had a court date for me in April to ask for a motion to lower my bond. That was the first motion ever filed to help me. On May 30, 2017 I went back to court for the Judge to sign my plea offer and close my case.
My original charges that put me in jail were serious charges and the new charges I received during my incarceration was just as serious. I was looking at some time, but Mr. Imhoff negotiated a plea offer that was almost too good to be true. If I ever need a defense attorney again my choice will be Mr. Imhoff. The man knows his job and fights for what is best for his client.
Everyone knows a public defender is call a public pretender and people say they work with the prosecutor not for the client. I strongly believe that is true with most especially the public defender that I was assigned for my original charges, but that IS NOT the case with Mr. Imhoff. He is there to defend the accused and get them a plea offer that is best for their charges.
Mr. Imhoff is on fire for justice. I had lost my faith in the judicial system due to the length of time I sat in jail waiting for a court date and not receiving any information from the previous public pretender. Mr. Imhoff changed all that and believe there are some who fight for those who can't.
If you need criminal defense Mr. Imhoff is the perfect choice.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired him for my son ten years ago, watching him on YSL case brought back just how horrible of an attorney he was. He would not show up or was late. When wanted a jury trial he said take a plea or pay in full. He is about money and should be called king of plea bargains.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Rucker family
Attorney Derek Wright!! This man is a crook and a liar! He abandoned my son's case & he's only been hired for 3 months and refuses to answer any calls or texts to explain why he thinks he's going to take our money & abandon my son's case! He never showed up for court on time or visited my son, he made promise after promise & assured us he would fight for my son. He used a juvenile excuse saying me the mom called & texted too much about the case.. how else was the family supposed to get updates on the case because he never called or did the job he was paid for!! I wish I had seen the negative reviews on "FindLaw" of other clients complaining about how incompetent he is before we hired this clown or even the complaint with the board that shows his history of being a liar!! Do not hire this wannabe Johnny Cochran because he doesn't have the experience to do the job....if you do hire him you'll regret it, save yourself the trouble! He's a hypocrite
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08 Aug, 2022 by Sheryl powell-mccracken
I see so many comments about Incompetent, Thief, Unreliable ect… Now!! I have known Derek for over 20 years and have been a very reliable and responsible. I have called him myself, and it will be a minute before he returns my call, but he do return them. He is a very busy man because he comes highly recommend. Y’all please let’s be fare and not bash him until he prove himself incapable of being a great Attorney for your team. I promise if y’all be fare, give him time. You will win your case. This is what I experienced with him. I have use his services twice and never been disappointed. Let’s be fare guys!!!
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24 Apr, 2022 by Steven
John Mrosek came highly referred to me by a really great home inspector and all around good man as I was in the process of buying a condominium in downtown Atlanta. I had told my inspector some of the serious problems I’d been having with my “real estate agent”, a woman who was lazy, ALWAYS HOURS late for home tours AND who told me that I didn’t need to ask for an inspection or any due diligence simply because I was interested in purchasing a condo as opposed to a single family home. As a first time homebuyer, I believed her, plus it was my lender, First Community Mortgage who referred her. And so I signed a purchase agreement that asked for no due diligence and because she gave no guidance about request seller concessions, the agreement I signed asked for NOTHING from the sellers.
As you can imagine, this was NOT at all in my best interest. And so after I spent weeks haggling with the AWFUL woman who was supposed to be my realtor, I was finally able to get her to ask the sellers to allow me to inspect the place. But she agreed to have an inspection done that would still leave the sellers free of any responsibility to fix or adjust their asking price based on the inspection findings.
I shared all of this with my home inspector who was as kind and concerned as a grandfather. He immediately told me about real estate attorney John Mrosek. I reached out to the attorney and after a more than 1 hour phone consultation wherein I detailed ALL of what I was going through, he offered his services. He told me that his hourly rate is $300 and that he requires a 5 hour retainer fee of $1500 upfront in order to start defending me.
I paid his retainer fee and he asked me to send every email exchange I had with her and her brokerage firm. There were plenty of emails. At a short point after I began forwarding the emails, he text me saying that I don’t want to use up all 5 hours on him going through emails!!! So, I stopped.
As things worsened between me and my fake realtor, I kept updating John and asking for his LEGAL EXPERIENCE AND HELP! He suggested I use what he calls the “walk away method” wherein I’d email the sellers agent that I’m no longer interested in the property. I copied my fake realtor and John on this email. John replied to me saying in effect, “very good, you’ve got them right where you want them to be...”
All of this was happening during the holidays of 2021. The sellers replied by saying that they would sue me for not honoring the terms of the binding legal purchase contract I had signed and that they would keep my earnest money. I emailed John with this info but he did not respond. I would not hear from John for the next 2 weeks, assumably because he was on holiday; but he never gave me a heads up that he would not be available.
By the time I heard from John in the 2nd week of 2022, I had lost my earnest money and both the sellers agent and my fake real estate agent were threatening to sue me for commissions they would’ve receive had I closed on the date that had been set. John’s response to me was that my case “is not easy” and that I “sent too many emotional emails that were rambling...” I was furious!
I asked John only 1 request, I asked if he would call a meeting between us, my fake realtor and the sellers agent so we might be able to come to an agreement. John responded saying that it might open a can of worms if he and I were to show up together; that it would cause the sellers to bring their lawyer. I was like, so? What’s wrong with that?
This was my ONLY request and it was denied by John Mrosek. After this, about 2 solid weeks went by and I heard NOTHING FROM JOHN. I then emailed him saying that he was either dead, out of town or had given up on my case. No response. Another 2 weeks passed and so I sent him an email detailing all the money I had lost in my efforts to purchase the property and I added in his $1500 retainer fee as another chunk of wasted money. He refunded ONLY $420! Saddening.
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26 May, 2018 by Tom
John helped me tremendously in buying out a partner and establishing my company. He has been there for me throughout the development of my business and is the only one I contacted when I was approached to sell. He is a great resource for thinking through issues in business.
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21 May, 2018 by David
Being in business for well over 25 years resulted in multiple needs for the services of a competent attorney. Lawyers who promise results but work little beyond filing form letters is my typical view of the disappointing results my company has experienced with the law profession prior to hiring John Mrosek. I commend and highly recommend John who proved to be the ONLY attorney that delivered highly productive results saving my company from nefarious or illegitimate lawsuits in several instances.
John will not tell me what I want to hear but what I need to hear and do to gain resolution while shortcutting the often wasteful costs of moving a case forward through the system. From several (supposedly uncollectable) six-digit collection cases which were resolved in my company's favor to defending against frivolous lawsuits, helping us navigate the many legal hurdles to insure our business foundations and practices are solid and defensible to providing me with a comfort and security that we are a well run and honorable company.
John Mrosek IS Great Bang For The Buck and very affordable. I am thankful for his service. John if you read this Thank You for helping me save my company and protecting our work force family....
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28 Oct, 2024 by Darren cottrell
03 Oct, 2024 by Nancy bradberry
Very unprofessional and incompetent at best! My husband used this firm for a DUI charge. He went through 4 attorneys before he was forced into a plea agreement. 1st attorney left the firm, we weren't notified, was only when my husband called that he found out that he was put on to a different attorney. After trying to contact the 2nd attorney to have some questions answered for weeks and being told the attorney one excuse after another a court date was set, at this point we were panicking because we had no idea what to expect in court. Hadn't even spoken to the 2nd attorney once.
So stressful having never been in trouble before he had a lot of questions. The day before court the older Overman
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14 Aug, 2024 by Angie h
Would not recommend this lawfirm to anyone. From the start we were lied to. 0-⭐️
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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.
