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14 Nov, 2024 by Alfred nkunga
I reached out to Mr. Hyman for help with a traffic ticket for my college student daughter. He reviewed the ticket and advised me, free of charge, that it could be paid without affecting her record—so his services weren’t necessary. Mr. Hyman’s honesty, professionalism, and ethical approach were truly refreshing. Highly recommend!
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29 Mar, 2024 by Amber whittaker
16 Aug, 2023 by Michelle edwards
16 Dec, 2024 by Dennis palmer
Injustice was done here by Andrew 8500 doll for nothing
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08 Jul, 2024 by April martin
Rex is the best!!! At getting you the same thing would have happened if you did it on your own or just pay tickets...he won't sue anyone...good luck people
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18 Jun, 2024 by Maddie nissen
Rex Chronister is a highly knowledgeable attorney who prioritizes efficiency and client education. With his expertise, he ensures that your time is not wasted and provides thorough counsel on the laws relevant to your case. You can trust Rex to have you well-prepared and informed throughout the legal process.
I cannot recommend CFFL enough. Thank you Rex, and your staff.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Micah
If you're in need of a legal services, you MUST give Brent a call first. He will be honest with you and whatever situation you're dealing with. It was a privilege to witness his flawless, almost movie-like, performance in court, where my opposition never stood a chance. He never promised me the best outcome, but delivered just that. His preparation is second to none and his execution was even more impressive. More importantly, Brent genuinely cared for my family and I. This was evident both in the compassion he showed in our first meeting and the ferocious defense of me in court. I will forever appreciate Brent for what he did for me. Do yourself a favor, call Brent Hall and only Brent Hall if you need a lawyer.
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18 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Brent is worth every penny he charges. A family member received a DWI and we had no idea how to proceed. My extensive online research advised to hire an attorney however when asking around everyone said not to as you are wasting your money. Brent came recommended to us by another lawyer and was the best advice we've received in a long time! He reviewed all the paperwork/videos and was VERY well prepared for court date. Good job Brent on our family member being found NOT guilty on a DWI charge.
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23 Nov, 2016 by Ramona crockett
Mr Hall helped with my son'DWI case. The reason we hired him is because he took the time to really talk with us and get all our details. He had expirence in all roles, so he knew exactly what to look for, and he charges one fee that gets you through the whole process. We had to postpone our case for personal reasons, no problem it was taken care of just like that. Mr Hall gathered all evidence in our case. He got all recordings from police and jail for us to review. When we had our pre court meeting, he gave us a package with all documents about our case. Mr Hall was well prepared for our meeting and had found the officer did not have probable cause to stop my son and that made all evidence not useable in court. We went to court and he presented our case and my son was found not guilty. We paid no fines and his record is clear. Mr. Hall was a blessing yo our family and I can't think him enough. I highly recommend him to meet your legal needs
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14 Nov, 2024 by Alfred nkunga
I reached out to Mr. Hyman for help with a traffic ticket for my college student daughter. He reviewed the ticket and advised me, free of charge, that it could be paid without affecting her record—so his services weren’t necessary. Mr. Hyman’s honesty, professionalism, and ethical approach were truly refreshing. Highly recommend!
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20 Sep, 2024 by David aldana
I had a traffic ticket and King Law group managed to lower it to probation. Overall they do a good job. The three stars come because I was only able to talk to the lawyer once and the rest was his secretary. She was kind enough to provide the details as a week had past after the hearing and didn’t hear from them. You got to be on top of them to get some feedback.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sachin mahajan
Best law firm in the town. Mr. Hayman was my lawyer. He did his best to get me out from traffic ciation. Highly recommended
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4.4
21 Reviews
3.0
2 Reviews
16 Dec, 2024 by Michael cleveland
FATHERS BEWARE
Called looking for a family lawyer she didn’t care much about what I had to say with the situation of my children unless I had “3500” for just a “retainer” today without asking the age or gender or possible condition of the kids to show any amount of interest which should be a huge red flag if your looking for a family attorney. She’s probably a very great impactful divorce lawyer. Just based off the retainers fees she’s probably will leave you dry after legal fees good luck
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07 Nov, 2024 by Mercedes dalton
I recommend Aundrea, she’s confident and works hard to fighting for you.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Tiffany
My husband and I used Aundrea for our custody battle for his daughter. She is a beast in the court room!! She was in constant contact with us throughout the whole process! She gave us advice when we needed it and she never backed down. She isn't afraid to say what was needed to get the point across! We won full custody of my husband's daughter and we are so thankful for Aundrea and all her help making this happen!! If you are going through a similar situation and fighting for your child I highly recommend you hire Aundrea!
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13 Dec, 2024 by James mcdaniel
Be weary this is an attorney that will take your money and throw you under the bus.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Tonesia fields
Miss Courtney and Luke handle my case. They work very hard on my case… Good Job..
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21 Jun, 2024 by Laura edwards
Very good
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13 Jan, 2025 by Jason heckler
If you’re looking to spend a lot of money for minimal results, this is the place to go.
- Lack of confidence in law: Poorly represented in key moments.
- Lack of consistency: Promises made were not delivered.
- Lack of accountability: No ownership of mistakes or missteps.
- Lack of professionalism: Prioritized convenience over advocacy.
- Excessive charges: Even basic updates were billed, despite being owed updates.
- Unreachable in urgent situations: Critical moments lacked support.
Kevin Hickey himself was representing me, I expected a strong advocate, but he focused on what was quickest and easiest for him. I was told one thing would happen, only to face an entirely different reality in court.
For $8,000, I’ve never felt more misrepresented.
I can’t help but wonder if Kevin truly believes this was his best effort.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Sarah johnson
Kind
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03 Jan, 2024 by Tia wigton
14 Oct, 2024 by Joan silva
He was great through the entire process.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Kenneth
Brent is definitely who you want in your corner. He handled a protection order and a custody case for me and met up to every expectation. He completely destroyed the opposing party in court wrapping both of the people up in lies. He's awesome at what he does.He was very reasonable on price as well. If I'm ever in need of legal council again, I will without a doubt, be using him.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Steve
Brent gave me some free legal advice for my sister. I would recommend Brent any day of the week!
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04 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She really took the time to listen to my problem and dealt with me fairly. Best of all I got the result I wanted!
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13 Nov, 2024 by Eric richard barnes
What impressed me about Matt was that he always responded to my questions and concerns. He was very understanding. It's great having a defense attorney that makes you feel worth defending.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Brian schmidt
I contacted Matthew Scott because I am an out of state attorney who has a client with a criminal matter in Arkansas. I could immediately tell that Matt is the kind of attorney that clients appreciate. No slick talk or delays. Just down to business with boots on the ground and he was able to get the answers the client needed in a matter of hours. I can tell that Matt is the real deal who works hard for his clients and I appreciate him.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Melanie rivera
Very fast efficient professional and all around a great lawyer. Was able to resolve our issue and to our favor. Would highly recommend
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23 Dec, 2024 by Ryan mccraw
I was going through a dispute to terminate a temporary guardianship that I had with my sister. Subsequently, this led into a custody battle between my son’s mother and I. I found myself fighting for my son against a coalition of two female aggressors. I originally retained representation through two separate law firms over the course of a year but had to leave both because they were completely ineffective in showing proper attention to my case.
I was at my whit’s end and out of money when I found Roni nearly a year after filing the original termination of guardianship.
Roni was the consummate professional. She did not sell me a bill of goods or tell me what I wanted to hear just to get my business but was straight to the point about the fight we had ahead of us. When there was mis-communication between opposing counsels and the court, she was on top of every detail, taking leadership and even making allowances for myself on the financial end so I would not absorb all of the costs. Her retainer and services were extremely reasonable and competitive.
In court, Roni was prepared amidst an onslaught of attacks from two separate fronts. She was calm, cool, collected, yet aggressive when the moment warranted. She owned the room through poise, preparation, and confidence. I truly believe finding her when I did was a form of Divine intervention in my son’s life. He is in a safer place right now with a bright future because of her.
We won our case, and I have Roni Bryant to thank for it.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Chaim naveh
I had a legal problem and being new to Fort Smith AI, I hired roni. I could not be more pleased. She is a real professional as well as a person with compassion. I recommend her for your neeeds.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Chasidy fantauzzi
I have given Trae Bryant a very hard time with my case. It hasn’t been the easiest for him and I actually ended up letting him go as my attorney. If people would just shut up and listen to their attorneys advice (especially myself) things would go more so in your favor. Trae took my case again when things went south with the other party, I had lost hope in all honesty, but he snatched my case back up and was on it by 7 am the next morning. Within the little amount of time I’ve had Trae back representing me it has been nothing but a blessing. I know my son is safe and I know Trae really does have good intentions and has my back. He is 100% for anyone who is in a custody battle, whether it be a nasty case or an easy case. You just have to take his advice very seriously, he will not let you down. The only person that can let you down is yourself. So thank you Trae for waking me up and making me grow up. I have grown into the best mom I can be for all of my children. Most importantly thank you for having my back even when I wasn’t right and was blinded by “love”. He’s an amazing attorney and worth the money. Always responds and has things in order ready to go on the day of court. Thank you, Trae! You’re the best.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Evagelia drosopoulos
Please don’t ever get this Lawyer. I got in trouble for something that my other Lawyer would’ve got me out of. Now my friend is dealing with the same thing. Bad choice
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10 Dec, 2024 by Melissa hatridge
My attorney through The Law Offices of David L Powell is Bailey Riggs. At the time I hired Bailey I was faced with having to obtain new council as my former attorney retired earlier than expected. Bailey jumped right in. Bailey helped me get through an incredibly stressful time. He did so with great professionalism, attention to detail, and thoughtfulness. I would highly recommend Bailey Riggs for any legal needs you may have. I know if or when I need legal advice or help, Bailey will be the one I will call.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Priscilla collier
Bailey Riggs was great to work with. He was very professional and I felt very confident in how my case was handled.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Jason heckler
If you’re looking to spend a lot of money for minimal results, this is the place to go.
- Lack of confidence in law: Poorly represented in key moments.
- Lack of consistency: Promises made were not delivered.
- Lack of accountability: No ownership of mistakes or missteps.
- Lack of professionalism: Prioritized convenience over advocacy.
- Excessive charges: Even basic updates were billed, despite being owed updates.
- Unreachable in urgent situations: Critical moments lacked support.
Kevin Hickey himself was representing me, I expected a strong advocate, but he focused on what was quickest and easiest for him. I was told one thing would happen, only to face an entirely different reality in court.
For $8,000, I’ve never felt more misrepresented.
I can’t help but wonder if Kevin truly believes this was his best effort.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Sarah johnson
Kind
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03 Jan, 2024 by Tia wigton
28 Oct, 2024 by Cassie jinks
Scot Allison represented our Guardianship case with efficiency and professionalism. It made the process run smoothly without undue stress. Thank you again for your help!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Yaponan de souza
Mr. Brinkley and Katie were so helpful during the entire process with handling my case! They are truly a Great team and they get the job done! I definitely recommended them to anyone in need of an efficient and attentive lawyer!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Lorenzo pitts
I was very pleased with the professional service I received. They notified throughout the process and all changes that had to be made. I would strongly recommend the law office to anyone.
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08 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Bugeja consulted with me and gave me the information I needed to take care of my situation without having to hire him. He was generous with his time and did not charge me a penny.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Kent
mr bujega was great and worth every penny and then some he expertly answered all of my questions and even did more work than he agreed to for the same price id definitey use him again in the future if i ever need another lawyer
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15 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
My husband hired Mr. Bugeja to settle and represent him for his custody battle. He met with my husband 3 times in person and my husband was told “I’m writing a proposal up and we’ll get this taken care of”. 2 months later completely ghosted my husband and myself. We have called, emailed, facebook messaged, and have received nothing back. My husband lost $5k towards this lawyer and got nothing accomplished.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Brian and kandy
My daughter used David Gean custody case after they went to court, he told her that he is her lawyer. She is getting ready to move and need to take baby daddy back to court. David has do nothing but give her the run a around. She ask him do I need to get another lawyer he said “I understand if you do”. Now we have agreed to his retainer and it’s been paid and agreed to his hour rate. She can’t get him to answer her phone calls and email sometimes he responds. Do not recommend this law firm.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Jaclyn williams
22 Oct, 2024 by Megan w god's girl
I’ll give 5 stars ⭐️I have confidence in David Gene so far my experience with Gene Gene and Gene Law firm have been amazing. I’m confident that David Gene will help me and succeed. I have faith in him. He seems like a good lawyer and a friend. Thank you David Gene! I’m trusting David Gene and having confidence that He will help get the job done and fight for me and help me get my son back. Thank you David Gene! So far he’s been wonderful and gets back with me as soon as he can. God bless you David Gene. Hope you can help me get my son back soon. I need someone like you, a good lawyer! Hope we can do this together. Thanks! Megan Wagoner!!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Case revival project
01 Aug, 2022 by Ashley
I really think he's one of the realest easy to talk to most professional lawyers Ive encountered ever, he contacted me first about my case, he definitely will do what he can to help you. I will recomend him to all my family and friends and will call on him again if needed in my legal troubles
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14 May, 2020 by Ronnie sanders
16 Sep, 2023 by Matt
If you want to waste money, and get a lawyer that isn't worth a wooden nickel, then look no further. In my current case, Mr. Wann failed to show up for my conditions of bond hearing, failed to get my charges amended after the crime lab report came back, caused me to fail to appear, and wouldn't get the warrant lifted, yet was able to file a motion to withdraw. Hes as worthless as the day is long. I'm reporting him to the bar and more.
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10 Sep, 2018 by Sherry
We hired Jeremy to do a Power of Attorney and to look at a trust account for us. My mother is elderly, and he was so very patient and kind in his dealings with her (and me). We will definitely turn to Mr. Wann again for any of our legal needs. I would highly recommend him as your attorney.
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31 Aug, 2018 by Kristina
We contacted Jeremy to do our will and power of attorneys. I was very worried and stressed about the whole process of making all of the decisions for our will. One meeting with Jeremy and he had my mind at ease and was a tremendous help with explaining everything! He kept in touch with us thru the whole process. He is very patient and caring and you know he has your best interest at heart! We will use Jeremy for all of our legal needs and we recommend him to everyone we know! He is fantastic!
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06 Feb, 2021 by Joanne
Mr. Marquette was the best. He knows the law, inside and out, and if there was something he didn't know, (which was rare) he did the necessary research and got back to me in a timely manner. He took the time to talk to me and explain everything, and was very professional. I have recommended him to several friends and any one else needing
representation.
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22 Jul, 2016 by Miranda
Bob saved my life. In one day, I went from a normal citizen to facing 40 years of felony charges. No other attorney would even consider the possibility that I was innocent (and I was), let alone the possibility that I could beat the case. But Bob did. And he beat the case within 60 days. The judge and prosecutor all but apologized to me.
There's nothing like the weight of criminal charges hanging over your head, and when you're in that situation you want to know that you have someone who is on your side, someone who will fight for you. I trusted Bob with my life, and it was the best decision I ever made.
He never sugar-coated anything either. He always told me what the possibilities were and that I was up against a big battle. But if there were any way possible to beat the case, he promised me he would find it. And he did!
Another thing, I felt like I was a priority, and not just another client in a mill. I could reach him any time of day or night, in multiple forms of communication. You won't find that with anyone else in town. He works multiple cases and still has the ability to make you feel like you're his only client.
I could go on for days, but my point is simple: hire him and you won't regret it.
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08 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I would recommend Bob Marquette to anyone needing a criminal defense lawyer. Over the course of 2008 to 2016, he has been professional, knowledgeable and thorough. Any questions I had about anything were fully explained, not only until the case was resolved, but even later on, years down the road, any questions I had were answered just as thoroughly. He was polite and professional to my family who called him, which I appriciate.
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16 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I got hit with a frivolous lawsuit. I gave Phillip Milligan a $2400 retainer fee after he told me I would be refunded whatever he didn’t use. We filed a countersuit. Then milligan said they asked me to drop my countersuit if she dropped hers. I said, “Well, how much has she cost me so far?” I was told I had over $1700 left. I agreed I could take the loss of $700 to end it, so I agreed. I really needed that $1700 so I asked how soon I could pick it up. They wouldn’t let me pick it up. So I’ve been checking the mail. A week before Christmas, I get a letter saying they wrote a clause into my settlement making my retainer non-refundable. They were giving me nothing back! Don’t use them. They know I sacrificed to pay that retainer and they took full advantage of it!
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24 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I gave him one star because I was required to select between 1-5 stars, if not I wouldn't give him anything. Milligan failed to notify me that he postponed my court date and did not submit proper documentation to the court. When I arrived to court (which turned out he had postponed). The judge called my name and Milligan was not there to represent me. Not only was I almost put in jail but my time was wasted. When my postponed court day arrived, I showed up early to meet with him, he was no where around. He did not show up until the last 10 minutes before court was adjourned and did not do an absolute thing to what he had said he was going to do when I decided to hire him. He told me he arrived late because he was confused on whether the court was in Van Buren or Ft Smith and he had showed up to the wrong one. (Which obviously shows he paid no attention to my file) I am very dissatisfied with how poorly he handled my case, he was very unpunctual, hard to reach and unprofessional. Every time I would try to reach him, his secretaries were very rude and when I would ask to speak with him, they would hang up the line as if he were trying to avoid speaking with me. I DO NOT recommend you hire Phillip J. Milligan, as a lawyer I feel he is untrustworthy and he was able to make easy money off of me so imagine what he would do with you...
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29 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Milligan clearly puts his client's best interest as a priority. He goes beyond the extra mile to try to win your case for you. His ability to find important details that the opposing attorney misses is outstanding. The only complaint, and it is minor, is he delays getting information to the client on a regular basis prior to trial. However, he will take your calls and get back with you ASAP. Also, I believe that he is so driven to win your case that he intently focuses on that goal, putting you before his own need to take a break or even eat. Milligan Law Firm is the law firm for you if you want your case to be a priority.
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28 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired him, was very rude and useless! Very disrespectful, and rude did not care to learn anything about my case
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12 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
45 minutes into my plea hearing Patrick Flake had not yet made it to the court room when they called my name. I let the judge know my lawyer wasn’t there yet and he allowed me to go call him. He answered the phone and informed me that he didn’t know we had court that day. So I waited for him to get there and went about putting in the plea that he advised me to put in. Clearly he never even really paid my case any attention despite the $5,000 I paid him to give me competent legal advice by reviewing the evidence in my case and to be on time to defend me on my court date. I was 19 and charged with delivery of marijuana which Mr. Flake refused to even show me a motion of discovery for or give me any information about but I later obtained a document that stated that a confidential informant was given x amount of money to purchase pills and marijuana from me. When the CI came to my house inquiring about those substances The document alleged that I told the CI that I didn’t have anything it would be later. Anyway, being that I was so young and had no idea what to do in this situation I just accepted these poor practices and kept him as my lawyer. I was convicted of conspiracy to deliver marijuana. If he had done his job correctly the outcome may have been different.
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24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Coy and got the Flake. Worst defense attorney I have ever dealt with still a prosecutor watch out potential clients. He will serve you up with your head on the platter.
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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.
