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18 Jul, 2024 by Owen austin
Meltzer & Bell P.A. represented me for a DUI case I had been charged. Paul Bernard an Attorney at the firm quickly stepped into action. He began swiftly working to give me the best possible outcome. Paul was nothing short of outstanding and gave me a favorable result. I strongly recommend Meltzer & Bell P.A. and Paul Bernard!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Jeremiah adams
I would deeply like to thank Meltzer & Bell, P.A along with my attorney Paul Benarnd. For going above and beyond for getting my case thrown completely out.It’s truly truly weight off my should knowing I can go forward In life with out this situation following me.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Florens dargenson
I absolutely love this law firm I hired them for my fiancé case I was assigned attorney Paul Bernard he did an amazing job at the case he was very patient the case was over a year long and he kept us updated during the entire time! He answered every and all question that we had and got us the results we wanted! He fought for us and made sure we got absolutely no jail time. 100/100 recommend! I will continue to use them for any and all my legal needs!
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08 Jun, 2022 by Nicole
Chuck is great! He is a pitbull per say defending his clients and questioning the opposing side. He represented me in both a criminal and a family law case. I promise you will not be disappointed!! Can’t go wrong w Mr. Shafer!!!
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13 Jan, 2021 by Lynn
Needed a quit claim deed. Mr. Shafer had it for me in a couple of days. That’s what you are an efficient attorney.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Rose
Mr. Shafer has been extremely professional and diligent despite our rather complicated case. We highly recommend him no matter how complicated your matter may be!
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06 May, 2024 by Cervando
I had never needed a lawyer since I had never got in any trouble but when I did need one they recommended me to Mr. Lamos and when we talked and met on the phone he was very professional with everything. If you need a lawyer that has experience he’s if your guy. He got my problem situated and solved.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Roro
I never needed a lawyer never been in trouble so when I was asked to find a lawyer on another’s behalf I went to searching. David name was brought to my attention after being ignored by a previous attorney. I contacted David’s office and was meet with his lovely Assistant she went over the initial details and told me David will contact me. David did just that and told me what the price was going to be after the payment was made, David sprung into action and got to working on the case. By me not ever having to deal with a lawyer I wasn’t sure how it would play out, I gave David space and let him do what he does and he hasn’t let us down yet … HES WELL WORTH IT …. Great man! Hire HIM!!!!
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15 Apr, 2023 by William
David is a savior! Since 1991 he has fought and won battles for me. Always understanding that sometimes good people find themselves in bad situations and using his knowledge and position to work the magic needed. David actually listens with an open mind comprehending all details. Always returning calls and staying on top of things. When I was unjustly sentenced to life in prison, he fought until he seen me released. Since, I've found myself needing help again. David is amazing with results that leave me dumbfounded and living carefree. It is not unusual for him to make a call to just check on them to make sure everything is OK. I can't say enough. Other lawyers I know, well, you know. This man is the weight on the legal scale I would always call.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Kessler in November of 2022 to represent me in a DUI arrest case. He met with my husband and I at, needless to say, a very stressful time in both of our lives. I had never been arrested before and I didn’t know what was ahead of me. I instantly felt at ease, for the first time, since the arrest when we sat in his office discussing the case and possible outcomes. Mr. Kessler came recommended to me by another lawyer and boy was I not disappointed! This man is the cream of the crop when it comes to criminal DUI defense attorneys. He is an expert in his field. He and his wonderful staff, Morganne, Victoria, and Lindsey all helped me navigate a scary landscape. Everyone was so approachable and helpful! They were excellent at putting me at ease. Mr. Kessler got my charge reduced to the lesser charge of Reckless Driving and I did not lose my ability to drive, ever! I was so grateful to be able to find this wonderful law firm. Mr. Kessler is a known bulldog of a trial attorney which I didn’t fully understand at the time. I hope to never have to hire a criminal defense attorney again but, if I do need one, Mr. Kessler would be my 100% choice all over again. Do not hesitate and call Mr. Kessler and his fabulous team. He will represent you with vigor, truth, honesty and preparedness. He and his team will get you the best possible outcome. It is scary facing a judge and prosecutors. With Mr. Kessler by my side, I feared nothing and neither will you. You need this lawyer.
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13 Sep, 2023 by George
Calm cool collected and very competent
Was easily contacted and kept in touch
Very reasonable fees
Great location across from court house
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12 Sep, 2023 by Terrence
The Kessler Law Office is the standard of excellence in criminal law defense. Everyone in the office is professional and thorough. My case was difficult as the charges stemmed from 4 years prior without my knowledge but the Kessler team was honest and diligent in defending me from start to finish. I could not have been in better hands and all charges were dismissed before trial. Best money I’ve ever spent!
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26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Thankyou for being as Good as your Reviews state! The whole team is amazing Excellent communication, Experience, Professionalism, compassion, Expertise, I could go on and on. Cassandra is also amazing, stressful situation but this is a Great Lawyer. Once Again Thankyou
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10 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Brian and his assistant Cassandra. They both handled my case professionally and smoothly. I was part of the process every step of the way and contact between us was always maintained. My case felt like a priority and that was most important to me.
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29 Oct, 2021 by Jacqui
Brian and his team are AMAZING! There isn't enough stars to be able to give them and nobody else I would recommend. My son was falsely accused of crimes he did not commit and this team was on top of every last detail. The opposing side did not even make it half way through and they dropped the case. I can never thank Cassandra enough for taking every last one of my phone calls some even twice a day. They took their time to find every last detail proving my sons innocence. Not once did this team make my family and I feel not important or that we were not their top priority. We loved that Brian is 100% straightforward and honest with every move of our case. He told us what the worst could be and the outcome we were going for at all times. Thank you so much for all of your support, patience, and help we can finally sleep again.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Deedee23
Mrs. Ritchey helped me through a very difficult and personal mishap with dedication and confidence. Her ability to think outside the box and demand results favored my case. I can't thank her enough for her sincere demeanor. Should I ever need an attorney again I will be calling Mrs. Ritchey. She is both caring and competent. THANK YOU!
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16 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Amy Ritchey help me tremendously with my case. She worked very hard to get me the best outcome regarding my situation.
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22 Jun, 2016 by Josh
My lawyer referred me to Amy to file an appeal with the DMV over my DL suspension due to refusal to submit to a breathalyzer test. I'm thankful my lawyer referred me to her. Because of her, my suspension ruling was quashed and I am now able to drive with full license privileges. Without Amy's expertise in DUI cases, I would still be dealing with the daily hassles of commuting in a rural town with no public transportation system. Not only is she very knowledgeable of the law, she also treated me with respect. I didn't have to wait long for email reply's nor did I ever have troubles contacting her by phone. I will be forever in Amy's debt.
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09 Feb, 2022 by Shodan
I was facing a very challenging technical situation and Mr Barnes went above and beyond to get my issues resolved fairly and quickly...I would absolutely recommend his services A++
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24 Jan, 2022 by Jeremiah
Did exactly what he said he would do. Wonderful experience and I would recommend him to everyone.
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21 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Barnes responded to my calls in a very timely fashion and communicated regarding my case very thoroughly. He was very helpful in explaining my case, and made me feel very confident it would be resolved. I highly recommend him to anyone who feels they were charged with a crime unjustly.
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14 Jan, 2020 by Justina
Mr. Hugo Concha is a great attorney. He is very honest and easy to talk to, and I felt very comfortable and at ease after our meetings. He kept me informed, and quickly returned all of my calls. Mr. Concha's expertise clearly showed in the results of my very serious case. He was truly God sent, and I can't thank him enough.
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16 Aug, 2013 by Chris
A+ Excellent criminal defense attorney. Mr. Hugo Concha was very thorough when he took the depositions/interrogations of the State's witnesses, and it helped our case big-time. He kept us informed, and was always very polite. We were usually able to contact him personally. If we left him a message, he would always return our calls, even during the evenings. Actually, Mr. Hugo Concha treated us like family, and to our surprise, this lawyer actually kept his word, he was able to get the charges reduced! Mr. Concha is a true professional with a lot of experience, and it showed. If you have serious criminal charges, I highly recommend Mr. Hugo Concha to use the right strategy to help you.
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22 Dec, 2010 by Joseph
Mr. Hugo Concha was honest and caring, and with his knowledge and experience we got the result we wanted! We strongly recommend him to anyone who has been arrested, and has a serious criminal law problem. He promptly returned all of our calls, and kept us informed at all times.
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26 Sep, 2024 by La sheva wilson
24 Jun, 2016 by Greg
Frank told me he would take care of everything and to not worry. He had the charges dismissed and took a mountain of stress off my shoulders. He was also easy on the wallet.
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24 Jul, 2014 by Greg
Frank represented me on a criminal case, he was able to quickly get the charges dropped and he was easy on the wallet!
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26 Sep, 2024 by La sheva wilson
15 Aug, 2024 by Chris
Mike Ohle was always available to answer my questions and concerns. He put me at ease throughout my legal process. Mike has a thorough knowledge of the law and approached my case with determination.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Robert fabrey
Thank you for the outstanding work that you did on behalf of my son Joseph. I know that he had really been put thru the ringer by the Sheriff Dept. Your professionalism is much appreciated. We were extremely confident and comfortable on picking you as our Attorney. You swiftly handled the case. You did not take advantage of our misfortune and your fees were reasonable. I will absolutely refer you to everyone I know. Thank you for giving his freedom back.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jayson rivera
I cought a B.U.I charge last year and contacted Michael Ohle who gave me confidence and cover my case with cloak and dagger, last month he came victorious getting the charge dropped to reckless operation of vessel this attorney will keep you will informed during the whole process and will definitely get you the best outcome under the circumstances. Thank you Michael Ohle for being a great professional.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Taylor geren
I’m not one to write google reviews often, however I feel the need to express to everyone how AMAZING Stephanie is as a criminal defense attorney. I have had the pleasure of hiring her twice in the last few years and she never disappoints! She’s empathetic, kind, quick to answer your calls or any questions, and does not disappoint in court. She truly does care for her clients and is passionate about her career. Whenever I didn't understand the court terms or what was going on she took the time to explain it to me, more than a few times. If you need a attorney for anything criminal please call her. She’ll give you honest and direct advice. Thank you all of you who are here who’ve helped me in my cases. You all are awesome!
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22 Jul, 2024 by Jonathan mayer
If you need a great lawyer, look no further than Stephanie McEnery - She knows her stuff, and goes above and beyond the call of duty! Highly recommended!!
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22 Jul, 2024 by Trish mayer
24 Dec, 2021 by Tony
Doc was demanding a lot of money at the 11th. hour. Money which
they had waived ten years earlier. After three court hearings the case was dropped thanks to Mr.Garlands efforts.
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01 Apr, 2020 by Steven
Mr. Jeffery Garland has once again came through for me. With in a very short time, after hiring him, all my charges were dropped, one was a felony. Over the years Jeffery has handled a variety of cases for me and I have always had a positive out come. He works hard and knows the law. Jeffery is th best and his price is very reasonable. People I have recommended him to were very pleased with his work I highly recommend him.
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09 Apr, 2019 by James ferreira
As long as this man knows you are trying to do the right thing from now on he is one of the best always willing to talk he was even able to get 2 different emotions granted for Me the end result was almost exactly what I asked him for the state wanted to give me 6 months 1 year inpatient and 2 years probation I got 2 years probation
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18 Sep, 2024 by H p
Very disappointed lack of communication never called when there was court dates barely made attempts to Strategize , my brother mentally ill and have drug problem and need help and he made like it wasn’t true only use one psychiatrist once that we the family never spoke with and wasn’t confident about the case but still took our money .. honestly between him and st Lucie county they sold my brother out … I’m very unsatisfied and feel robbed I expected more from him
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23 Apr, 2024 by Kimberly kram
Ed Mosher is a beacon of professionalism and dedication in the legal field. His expertise as a criminal attorney shone brightly during my three-hour trial, where he tirelessly defended me against stalking, harassment, and emotional torture. His strategic approach, coupled with his unwavering commitment to justice, secured a favorable outcome. I am immensely grateful for his support and highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a formidable legal advocate.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Scott lapolla
16 Sep, 2024 by Marcel perez
Looking for an attorney? Look no further steve is the best , he really does his best to help you plus he help you with payments plans . I highly highly recommend him !!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Emmanuella torrez
08 Apr, 2024 by Nerissa salmon
I’ve been recommended to Mr Steve Ziskinder by hilburn bonds and bail services jus for my son and it turn out to be jus the right attorney I
Was looking for as how I’m looking forward for the matter to be dealt with which I’m so proud n greatful to have this attorney to represent my son.
Therefore I’ve recommended a lot of person to Mr Steve and they were happy with his service and presentation in court he stand n fight for them when they appear in court and I’m was in a situation between a hard rock n a big stone n I’m telling u Steve push that big stone away n let me know that life goes on he got me ,jus allow him to do his job n see how great he is n he prove to me that he know his work, honestly it wasn’t a word of mouth he prove it to me n i’m very pleased with Mr Steve service.
Steve keep u up to date he don’t jus take ur money he fight for his clients.
You can call upon Steve any day any time night or day he will sure answer or send u a text.
Mr Steve 🤣 attorney is family orientated easily to get along with he’s reliable trustworthy n he’s an understanding attorney and he can definitely tell u exactly what to look forward for which that’s a plus.
I highly recommend me Steve #1 in fortpierce
This attorney can be located at 2nd street fortpierce .
I’ll always request Mr Steve to be my attorney .
Best attorney in fortpierce.🎉🎊🥂🍻
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16 Sep, 2024 by Marcel perez
Looking for an attorney? Look no further steve is the best , he really does his best to help you plus he help you with payments plans . I highly highly recommend him !!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Emmanuella torrez
08 Apr, 2024 by Nerissa salmon
I’ve been recommended to Mr Steve Ziskinder by hilburn bonds and bail services jus for my son and it turn out to be jus the right attorney I
Was looking for as how I’m looking forward for the matter to be dealt with which I’m so proud n greatful to have this attorney to represent my son.
Therefore I’ve recommended a lot of person to Mr Steve and they were happy with his service and presentation in court he stand n fight for them when they appear in court and I’m was in a situation between a hard rock n a big stone n I’m telling u Steve push that big stone away n let me know that life goes on he got me ,jus allow him to do his job n see how great he is n he prove to me that he know his work, honestly it wasn’t a word of mouth he prove it to me n i’m very pleased with Mr Steve service.
Steve keep u up to date he don’t jus take ur money he fight for his clients.
You can call upon Steve any day any time night or day he will sure answer or send u a text.
Mr Steve 🤣 attorney is family orientated easily to get along with he’s reliable trustworthy n he’s an understanding attorney and he can definitely tell u exactly what to look forward for which that’s a plus.
I highly recommend me Steve #1 in fortpierce
This attorney can be located at 2nd street fortpierce .
I’ll always request Mr Steve to be my attorney .
Best attorney in fortpierce.🎉🎊🥂🍻
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16 Sep, 2024 by Marcel perez
Looking for an attorney? Look no further steve is the best , he really does his best to help you plus he help you with payments plans . I highly highly recommend him !!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Emmanuella torrez
08 Apr, 2024 by Nerissa salmon
I’ve been recommended to Mr Steve Ziskinder by hilburn bonds and bail services jus for my son and it turn out to be jus the right attorney I
Was looking for as how I’m looking forward for the matter to be dealt with which I’m so proud n greatful to have this attorney to represent my son.
Therefore I’ve recommended a lot of person to Mr Steve and they were happy with his service and presentation in court he stand n fight for them when they appear in court and I’m was in a situation between a hard rock n a big stone n I’m telling u Steve push that big stone away n let me know that life goes on he got me ,jus allow him to do his job n see how great he is n he prove to me that he know his work, honestly it wasn’t a word of mouth he prove it to me n i’m very pleased with Mr Steve service.
Steve keep u up to date he don’t jus take ur money he fight for his clients.
You can call upon Steve any day any time night or day he will sure answer or send u a text.
Mr Steve 🤣 attorney is family orientated easily to get along with he’s reliable trustworthy n he’s an understanding attorney and he can definitely tell u exactly what to look forward for which that’s a plus.
I highly recommend me Steve #1 in fortpierce
This attorney can be located at 2nd street fortpierce .
I’ll always request Mr Steve to be my attorney .
Best attorney in fortpierce.🎉🎊🥂🍻
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18 Jul, 2024 by Owen austin
Meltzer & Bell P.A. represented me for a DUI case I had been charged. Paul Bernard an Attorney at the firm quickly stepped into action. He began swiftly working to give me the best possible outcome. Paul was nothing short of outstanding and gave me a favorable result. I strongly recommend Meltzer & Bell P.A. and Paul Bernard!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Jeremiah adams
I would deeply like to thank Meltzer & Bell, P.A along with my attorney Paul Benarnd. For going above and beyond for getting my case thrown completely out.It’s truly truly weight off my should knowing I can go forward In life with out this situation following me.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Florens dargenson
I absolutely love this law firm I hired them for my fiancé case I was assigned attorney Paul Bernard he did an amazing job at the case he was very patient the case was over a year long and he kept us updated during the entire time! He answered every and all question that we had and got us the results we wanted! He fought for us and made sure we got absolutely no jail time. 100/100 recommend! I will continue to use them for any and all my legal needs!
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20 Jan, 2020 by Peggy
I retained Gene in the middle of the most explosive marital dissolution! Lots of drama and violence! gene was amazing he kept me protected at all times positioning his body so I couldn't get hurt or seen this man was willing to lay down his life and always made sure he positions his body with my safety first he was great !!!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Scott bailey
I wouldn’t hire his so called attorney if he was the last one on the planet! I saw this guy have himself removed from a young lady’s case in St. Lucie county courts and refused to give her back her $5,000.! And didn’t do a thing for her! This guy has a HUGE surprise coming because I have followed this case, where the St. Lucie courts have drug it out for 2 years with no evidence, and now the evidence this young lady asked this so called attorney to get, which he told her didn’t matter, is now coming into play and even the judge told the prosecutor and her current attorney she had every right to it they were violating Brady law! Oops! Now she has this guy on that fact and she is going to the Florida Bar Association about him and his misrepresentation and failure to perform his duties under Brady law.
So hopes he reads this and looks into his cases and realizes how screwed he now is!
Will definitely update this later on what happens to him over this case.
Lawsuit in process so stay away from this law office.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Matthew bernier
02 Sep, 2022 by Sharon evans
TERRIBLE ATTORNEYThis attorney is incompetent and does not represent clients well. He took on a car accident case and misled his client for two years indicating they had a claim and he was working on the case. He failed to zealously represent his client, he did not even conduct one deposition of the opposing side after he filed suit. DO NOT WASTE your time, hire an attorney with proven succes and competence. This attorney withdrew his representation right before case was scheduled for trial because he did not feel confident to go in court. His incompetence cost me 2 vamuable years and set my case back.
You will regret hiring this Attorney...DO NOT do it...go with an established firm. Moreover, he never answers his phone and it is impossible to get in contact with him. Run dont walk....use any othet attorney!!!!!!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Scott bailey
I wouldn’t hire his so called attorney if he was the last one on the planet! I saw this guy have himself removed from a young lady’s case in St. Lucie county courts and refused to give her back her $5,000.! And didn’t do a thing for her! This guy has a HUGE surprise coming because I have followed this case, where the St. Lucie courts have drug it out for 2 years with no evidence, and now the evidence this young lady asked this so called attorney to get, which he told her didn’t matter, is now coming into play and even the judge told the prosecutor and her current attorney she had every right to it they were violating Brady law! Oops! Now she has this guy on that fact and she is going to the Florida Bar Association about him and his misrepresentation and failure to perform his duties under Brady law.
So hopes he reads this and looks into his cases and realizes how screwed he now is!
Will definitely update this later on what happens to him over this case.
Lawsuit in process so stay away from this law office.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Matthew bernier
02 Sep, 2022 by Sharon evans
TERRIBLE ATTORNEYThis attorney is incompetent and does not represent clients well. He took on a car accident case and misled his client for two years indicating they had a claim and he was working on the case. He failed to zealously represent his client, he did not even conduct one deposition of the opposing side after he filed suit. DO NOT WASTE your time, hire an attorney with proven succes and competence. This attorney withdrew his representation right before case was scheduled for trial because he did not feel confident to go in court. His incompetence cost me 2 vamuable years and set my case back.
You will regret hiring this Attorney...DO NOT do it...go with an established firm. Moreover, he never answers his phone and it is impossible to get in contact with him. Run dont walk....use any othet attorney!!!!!!
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18 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mrs. Jules-Toussaint as my attorney for my divorce; however, she did not perform her duties correctly and lacked to include a Form that needed to be included in my petition which therefore resulted in the judge taking my kids from me and given them to the father within days. This is not an attorney I would recoommend or hire for any divorce case with children involved.
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09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Never picks up the phone ....never returned a voicemail.... Very disappointed client
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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.
