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21 Aug, 2024 by Kyle
I was in county jail thinking I was going to be stuck there for a long time. I hired Mathew Chapel and he got me out of jail and in track to get my life back together. I recommend his work to anyone in need. He is a veteran and knows the law.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Laura
No one wants to ever need a defense attorney, but it happens. When my stepson found himself in serious trouble, I called Matt. He was able to secure him the best outcome possible. He knows the law and your rights. I can't recommend him enough.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Chad and jennifer
Matt chapel defended our son on a criminal case. He worked harder and more hours than I would have expected any attorney to work and by that I mean nights weekends sometimes I almost believe around the clock. He is very caring and kind He made us feel like family. He also builds a defence team specific to the case . This man only has a 5 star rating but he deserves a 10 star rating and he will always be considered family to us thank you mathew chapel for everything
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08 Jul, 2024 by J b
Mr. Burkhardt was helpful and caring about my situation! Thank you!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dave grant
Joshua Burkhardt is honest, knowledgable, kind, trustworthy, and is good at what he does. He provides guidance for our company and I wouldn't want to go anywhere else.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Karley dobis
03 Feb, 2023 by Steve
Had some paperwork that needed attended too, he did it fast accurate, and affordable, Great staff to deal with as well.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Angela
Mr.Essex has been my attorney for a long time, at least 10+ years. He has always been dependable, upfront and honest, a plethora of knowledge and most importantly, caring. He's been there for my family every time we have needed him, everything from traffic violations to criminal law. He's never been judgemental, just honest. Mr. Essex, thank you for all the times you've helped my family and I out, you've never let us down! You are appreciated more than you know!
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26 Jul, 2018 by Rolando
If your looking for a great attorney Thomas is the man, I had a felony that I thought would never be erased well glad to say Thomas got it erased. JOB WELL DONE THOMAS THANKS.
Sincerely Rolando
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10 Sep, 2019 by Molly
I can't say enough good things about Zachary and his staff at the office. I came into his office in quite a panic and he heard me talking with his secretary. He immediately came out to greet me and listened attentively to what was going on. I could tell that Zach and his team truly cared about my situation and were ready and eager to help. Zach jumped into action immediately pausing the tasks he was currently working on. He worked diligently and helped resolve the issue the within hours. From the moment I stepped in his office, Zach and his team made me feel at ease. Zachary is an incredible attorney who will handle your situation with care. I am truly grateful for everything Locke and Witte did for me that day.
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05 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Zach helped my family with our will. He also helped us with my parents estate. He spent a lot of time with us explaining the process during a very stressful time.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
My boyfriend faced a felony. We seen three other lawyer's who tried to charge us too much for the same plea Mr. Bohdan got us as a public defender.
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08 Mar, 2021 by Ellen
Ryan is one in a million! I hired him based on his awesome reviews. I’m so thankful for the decision I made on having Ryan represent me. With COVID my case had been delayed for a year. He really seemed like he cared about me and my future. I never had to wait long for him to return my calls or text. So a year had passed and charges were pressed on me. In a panic I called Ryan on a Friday night and he got right back to me even though he was out to dinner with his family. I honestly didn’t expect to hear from him until Monday. Keep in mind I paid him over a year ago. My whole job, life and kids were on the line! Ryan literally saved me! He went above and beyond and my outcome was better than I anticipated! I will always be grateful for what Ryan has done for me! I have my life back and my future is looking good for my family and I. I wanted to write this review in the hopes to help someone else and to thank Ryan for all he has done for me!
Thank you Ryan!!!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Tyler west
Absolute professionals in every way. Very helpful and friendly staff.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Kate light
Truitt is very caring, and great at what they do!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Heather rooney
Phil and his team were super professional and prompt when helping a family member with their injury claim. I highly recommend this team of individuals who come together to make things right for you!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Barb clevenger
Eric is awesome. He helped us set up our LLC. He had all the documents ready for us and had done plenty of research in anticipation of our visit. He researched and got back with us on a few other questions we had. Very thorough. We will definitely be seeing him for any other issues that might come up. Would completely recommend Eric .
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12 Dec, 2023 by Alexander milentis
I had a great experience using Mr. Jarjour as my divorce attorney. I had filled out my name and number online to have him call me regarding my situation and within a couple hours he reached out to me and already had information pulled up from my case that he looked up. I was very impressed from the start. Sam is very thorough and straightforward but also very personable. He seemed to always put my best interest first while trying to get the case settled as soon as possible to reduce costs etc.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Elizabeth germano
Sam and Tessa were amazing to work with. They replied quickly and eased my anxiety. When it came the day of mediation, Sam did an amazing job representing me.
Financially, his rate is less expensive than others.
We were referred from another attorney to call Sam up. I do not regret my decision at all.
Thank you Sam & Tessa for everything.
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02 May, 2024 by Zachary james mcalexander
26 Apr, 2024 by Jeff bridge
Absolutely The Best North East Indiana Has To Offer For All Your Legal Needs. Focused On Your Needs - Not New Billboards. Don’t Just Trust Anyone!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Fuzzy nuttzz
Great talk. Very knowledgeable and informative. Complete confidence he can get the job done.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Scott kinder
10 Sep, 2024 by Madeline ahlersmeyer
Nick was helpful gave me all the info I needed even a website to do my LLC on my own to save some money and then said if I needed documents done they were there when needed.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Chris castell
Nick and his firm are stewards of both professionalism and personal attention to their clients. As a retired combat Veteran, I never thought I would need legal counsel. Nick and his entire team immediately became an extension of support and expertise.
Nick and his team's attentiveness and responses did not just help me recoup from a general contractor financial hardship but walked me through each step in the process. I also cannot speak highly enough as to this firm and recognition of the cost of efficient legal counsel. They keep communication concise, do not take short cuts but are extremely fair with their fees.
This firm takes time to listen, treats you like a person and a family member.
Nick...you and your team are phenomenal and wish nothing but future success. Thank you so much!
Chris
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21 Aug, 2024 by Brad banush
My attorney Grant has been a huge help to me for all my needs! He can for sure pull off some miracle's.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Veronica adkins
Hello I wanted to give my experience with this law firm. Specifically Danielle. They not only took my case in a extremely short amount of time which was amazing! The work they did was great. They communicated with me every step of the way and treated me like a person, not a number. They got the results desired for my case as well! Heck even the customer service was phenomenal!
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10 Jul, 2024 by Amy harmeyer
Attorney hired: Grant
While eventually they got the job done, it was with minimal effort, minimal communication, required multiple reminders from me of things that had already been discussed and then charged to read my messages reminding them to do what they said they'd do.
In addition, there were unnecessary delays in an already unstable personal situation. Copying documents from other cases, tweaking the information while I'm in the office then sending to me to "proofread" where the copied information was incorrect and then charging me for "review of messages" when I was sending the document back pointing out his grammar and other mistakes. Also charging 3 hours to complete paperwork that was 90% (his estimate) completed while I was there for an in person 1 hour meeting.
I requested papers require signature on receipt from other party and had I not reached out to ask about the delay, it was gusto office staff intention to just mail it. And when I reminded her I wanted it delivered by an actual person, I was again charged for review of my messages to them.
Initial packet requested many many documents that required a few hours to collect and upload just for me to get to my first in person meeting and be told the documents weren't necessary right away. Then to be charged for review of said documents that ended up being irrelevant. But when I referenced information from the documents, my attorney required multiple reminders and didn't really know what was going on with my pretty straight forward case.
Finally, he made a generalized misogynistic comment about his "theory" of women in the nursing profession having unrealistic expectations of men.
Overall, you get nickel and dimed for minimal effort/communication on their part. I would not recommend, gave 2 stars only because ultimately my legal matter was resolved.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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14 Aug, 2019 by Jennifer kay
Mitch is a great guy, very busy and hard to connect with though. He covers 2 counties, and is the only public defender in wells county.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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14 Aug, 2019 by Jennifer kay
Mitch is a great guy, very busy and hard to connect with though. He covers 2 counties, and is the only public defender in wells county.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Stephanie freon
A year ago we hired him for a case. He did give us a bit of direction and showed up to one of the 3 trials we had. The one he came to, he was late and had to leave during the trial to grab more paperwork he'd left at the office, postponing the time we sat in the courthouse. We did not use much time with him and I asked in the beginning how our retainer would carry on in regards to time management. He assured me that if he didn't use his time that equated to the retainer we may get some back. In turn, I was sure to research the Indiana law as much as I could before the times we spoke with him (about a total of 5 15-30 min calls/in persons appointments), to which we discussed my research and how we'd present in court. Side note: My research was to ensure that I understood the law and I confirmed with him if my understandings were correct.
Ultimately after our last trial, The one that he was late to.. I tried to call his office for some other matters still pertaining to the same case and he never returned my calls. I left multiple messages with a secretary but have yet to make it down in person.
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21 May, 2022 by Alicia king
Mathew is an amazing attorney. He doesn't tell you what you want to hear but what you need to hear. He works very hard for his clients and always is there when you need him
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10 Jul, 2021 by Shane witmer
5.0
5 Reviews
4.3
217 Reviews
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
19 Jun, 2024 by Tamara henman
17 May, 2024 by Jarred omlor
Was in communication with them for setting up a payment plan to resolve the issue. Offered to back pay from the last phone conversation, but in return I asked for some kind of documentation stating the agreement of the terms.... after asking for documentation the automatically denied a payment plan. I'm glad you have a fast response to your Google review. But not to clients.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Cody lindsay
If you're ever in a spot of trouble and need an attorney to represent you, I highly recommend Bart Arnold. Bart is straightforward and will do everything within his power to ensure his clients get what they need. With that though is doing your part as his client and communicating with him to keep him in the know with any and all information you can provide him. Bart will go above and beyond to secure the best outcome possible and while everyone wants something, as he mentioned to me, that may not always be the case but he will get you what you need.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
30 Apr, 2024 by Jeff janssen
20 Mar, 2024 by Nathaniel hubley
I highly recommend Beers Mallers for elder law issues. They are very knowledgeable and experienced and I regularly refer my clients who have elder law issues and guardianship issues to Beers Mallers.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Suzanne green
Ryan Gardner is a nasty human, zero moral compass and I believe the only thing he learned in law school was the word hearsay. He is why attorneys are called slimy shysters! This guy drips with ego and entitlement.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by Desiree winters
The office assistants are nice and friendly, known nothing about all the lawyers here but I hired Mark Thoma in 2020, after the conclusion of my case which was March this year. I have been calling and calling, leaving message after message and as of today no call back. Since the first day of hire I've been doomed because he was not worth the hire "NOT ENOUGH PRESSURE APPLIED" I regret wasting my time and money with this firm. If you are looking for full representation from start to finish, alone with the charge reduction this is not the best route. I would have done better getting a lawyer still training in school. So now I only have a few options let me see where they can get me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by G
Called and was in the middle of describing our need for a visitation agreement, the person who answered the phone was very rude interrupted me midstream told me she’d be right back clicked over while I was still talking. If that’s the way it starts how the heck is it going to end? I hung up the phone and moved on. Person answering the phone should get a few pointers on courtesy to customers.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ghgne5
I have known Nick Wallace for many years. He is very intelligent, a hard worker and very caring. He is one of the most ethical and honest people I know. I would recommend him to anyone with legal troubles.
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08 Jul, 2024 by William faulkner
08 Jul, 2024 by Cyi makemoney
Randy Hammond screwed me over when I was in desperate need of a criminal and family attorney in June 2017. Never signed an agreement and happily took my money. Stay away.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shanna jenkins
08 Jul, 2024 by Desiree winters
The office assistants are nice and friendly, known nothing about all the lawyers here but I hired Mark Thoma in 2020, after the conclusion of my case which was March this year. I have been calling and calling, leaving message after message and as of today no call back. Since the first day of hire I've been doomed because he was not worth the hire "NOT ENOUGH PRESSURE APPLIED" I regret wasting my time and money with this firm. If you are looking for full representation from start to finish, alone with the charge reduction this is not the best route. I would have done better getting a lawyer still training in school. So now I only have a few options let me see where they can get me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by G
Called and was in the middle of describing our need for a visitation agreement, the person who answered the phone was very rude interrupted me midstream told me she’d be right back clicked over while I was still talking. If that’s the way it starts how the heck is it going to end? I hung up the phone and moved on. Person answering the phone should get a few pointers on courtesy to customers.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ghgne5
I have known Nick Wallace for many years. He is very intelligent, a hard worker and very caring. He is one of the most ethical and honest people I know. I would recommend him to anyone with legal troubles.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Jennifer krinn
The girl who answered the phone was rude. I hung up before going any further. Yuck.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Ryan frederick
Good lawyer.. I've hired him for my License and child support and criminal defense as well in the past .. most resent was for my License..
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17 Oct, 2023 by Josie
09 Feb, 2024 by D_christine
Lori was unprofessional, disrespectful, and lacked common human decency.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Monica
28 Aug, 2023 by Adam wainikainen
Excellent intelligent and professional attorneys. Absolutely the best attorneys Fort Wayne has to offer
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28 Oct, 2024 by Vannah vongphachanh
14 Oct, 2024 by M j
This man is a pillar in his community. Thank you.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joey martin
Would not recommend Bellinger law if you’re a single father and trying to get 50-50 or more. I asked him to file a petition form to change my daughter’s last name. He said he would do it and then months later he said that something happened in the system so it didn’t go through and I got a different lawyer now and he said that he never filed it. And any agreements that The other party files he wants you to sign without any concerns, even though there are words in the agreement that screws my party over.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Vannah vongphachanh
14 Oct, 2024 by M j
This man is a pillar in his community. Thank you.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joey martin
Would not recommend Bellinger law if you’re a single father and trying to get 50-50 or more. I asked him to file a petition form to change my daughter’s last name. He said he would do it and then months later he said that something happened in the system so it didn’t go through and I got a different lawyer now and he said that he never filed it. And any agreements that The other party files he wants you to sign without any concerns, even though there are words in the agreement that screws my party over.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Vannah vongphachanh
14 Oct, 2024 by M j
This man is a pillar in his community. Thank you.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Joey martin
Would not recommend Bellinger law if you’re a single father and trying to get 50-50 or more. I asked him to file a petition form to change my daughter’s last name. He said he would do it and then months later he said that something happened in the system so it didn’t go through and I got a different lawyer now and he said that he never filed it. And any agreements that The other party files he wants you to sign without any concerns, even though there are words in the agreement that screws my party over.
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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:
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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.
