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25 Oct, 2023 by Raul
Jennifer added a human touch to the proceeding during that difficult time in my life. My wife and I were heading for a divorce and I hired Jennifer to represent me. While my wife and I pull the plug on the whole thing, Jennifer was there ready to represent my with an added touch of humanity.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Jennifer and her team responded quickly to my needs. They were upmost professional and helpful in my divorce negotiations and needs. I highly recommended them to anyone. 5 out of 5. Outstanding attorney and support team.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Teresa
How do you find the words to describe the worth of your quality of life? The worth of your children’s future and best interest? The worth of less conflict and stress? The worth of your safety, sleep, time, and financial means? Divorce and custody matters can be life altering. One choice can greatly change the course and outcome. Making the right choices are difficult when you are scared, vulnerable, or facing the complex issues that are common during a family law matters. However, the single MOST IMPORTANT choice you will make in a family law matter is who you choose to represent you. I had somebody that had my back and I didn’t have to fight alone. This whole process they made it so comforting and helped me through a nightmare of a time. They were professional and did everything in a very timely manner. Jennifer Simmons and her team were my answer.
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27 Jul, 2023 by Mark
Mr. Buczek literally saved my career from a false accusation of assault and battery. He clearly and concisely analyzed all the evidence and was able to pick apart the holes in the false accusation. He was professional throughout the entire process. I am very grateful to have him defend me. Would highly recommend!
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25 Jun, 2022 by Sarah
When it comes to nasty legal family issues… their us NO other lawyer I would rather work with than Nate. He is very professional, kind and most importantly not all about making money. He really levels with you as well and isn’t afraid to be real with you and tell you when you are wrong. Love him!
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15 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Nate Buczek's highly professional and dedicated legal representation greatly assisted me during my case. His expertise and knowledge of the local Courts and applicable Virginia Codes were essential in representing my case. I would like to pass along my sincere appreciation to Mr. Buczek and legal team.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
She was very easy to communicate with and made the adoption process smooth.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Ariana
We have consulted and hired Victoria on several different occasions. She has been honest quick and efficient during our legal processes. I would highly recommend her to anyone for their future legal needs.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Sherry
I couldn't be more pleased with my decision to hire Victoria Young. Not only is she knowledgeable, she's friendly and makes you feel important. She cares about her clients and it shows. Through the process, she kept me completely informed and up to date. I highly recommend Victoria and her staff.
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02 Dec, 2018 by Charlotte
My husband and I have found Juan's services very thorough and absolutely invaluable in relation to filing a 1-133 application for a travel document with the USCIS. We could possibly have filed the form ourselves without problems, but we certainly needed Juan’s qualified and detailed advice on immigration law – specifically highly specialized advice on our options and obligations. He has been very patient with answering our numerous questions and extremely generous with his time. We would not hesitate to return should we need assistance with other legal matters.
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18 Apr, 2017 by Griselda
Juan helped me make my will. Listened to all my concerns and answered all my questions. He is very knowledgeable, and bilangual too!
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14 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Juan's attention to detail and the energy he puts into every one of his cases makes him invaluable to each of his clients. He continually goes above and beyond what is requested, and he is constantly looking for better and more creative solutions to legal problems. He is honest, reliable and cost-effective. His ability to speak both English and Spanish fluently helps him competently represent a wide range of people in many different areas of law. He is a zealous advocate for each of his clients, and you will not regret hiring him.
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16 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I had Dori for the first half of a case with the previous firm she was at. Unfortunately she left the firm before my trial date. I am sure she was unable to inform me about her departure because of contract or whatever. I wish that she could have represented me at trial for my child custody matter, because I felt like she had much more confidence and would have gotten me better results. I tried finding her online but had no luck. She was familiar with my case and I felt like she actually believed in me as a father, which in turn she naturally would have fought harder. She was always quick to respond to any emails or phone calls---always within 24 business hours. I would strongly recommend Dori.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Darren was hired to represent me for Big Truck lane violation around the city of Strafford, Va. He got my case resolved, my driving record remains perfect.
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21 Jul, 2024 by Evans francis
I am deeply grateful for the exceptional representation provided by Mr. Cornick in my recent criminal case. His extensive knowledge of Virginia laws and the judicial system was evident from the outset. Through his expertise and strategic approach, he successfully managed to get the criminal charges against me dropped. His dedication and professionalism are unparalleled, and I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a top-tier criminal lawyer. He truly is the best in the field. Thank you, Mr. Cornick, for your outstanding support and guidance during a challenging time.
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28 Jun, 2024 by John smith
To those looking for a professional to take the time to listen and reply to your question this is a great friendly lawyer. I myself have had a first occurrence and not familiar with the court system so to me was a good match. He took the time to reply to my questions kept me calm in my hour of need and made me feel comfortable. The process went smoothly and just as he said I highly recommend this lawyer for experience and personality.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Dave basham
We guided our daughter to Emily at Select Partners to handle her divorce. BIG mistake!! She didn’t show up for the first court date. Major red flags with this attorney. Thank goodness we’ve found a more reliable attorney that is providing results.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Craig kubala
Ted Butler was the attorney my wife hired to represent her in a contentious child custody and divorce case, which has been fraught with conflict. Initially, I harbored reservations about Mr. Butler, given that part of my ex-wife's strategy involved attempts to have me arrested, file multiple protective orders against me, and accuse me of spousal and child abuse. While it seemed initially that Ted Butler was complicit in this strategy, it became apparent over time that he may not have been fully informed about the complete truth, plans, or actions of his client. Throughout the ongoing divorce proceedings, I have come to believe that Ted Butler is an honest individual who strives to do his best for his clients. I am convinced that without Ted Butler's representation, my ex-wife's outcomes in court would have been significantly worse. As a former military combat veteran, my ex-wife consistently uses PTSD against me, despite my disability being rated at only 10 percent. It was a central component of her argument that I posed a danger to her and our children due to PTSD. While Ted Butler vigorously advocated for his client, he did not exploit my military service against me in court, despite my ex-wife's persistence in doing so. Although my divorce case is still pending, and Ted Butler is likely to remain my ex-wife's attorney, I want to acknowledge him as an honest and honorable attorney who fights vigorously but fairly.
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17 Apr, 2023 by Courtney bailey
Nicole O'Neal is very knowledgeable, professional, caring, and came highly recommended from my previous attorney. I initially met with Nicole in 2019 for legal advice and retained her a few months later. I have been working with her for 3+ years and cannot stress enough how smart she is. Nicole helped my family with a Transfer of Venue, Temporary Orders for Custody and Visitation, retaining the best GAL, and a successful Step-Parent Adoption; we did not make it easy on her, but she was always (literally, always) patient and kept the best interest of my children at heart. Highly, highly recommend Nicole!
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13 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
If you're a father looking to get out of paying child support this is your guy! He will allow you to send in nothing but some random numbers typed up from "your business" while dragging the mother all over the ends of the earth to retain any and all of her financial output/input. In the end I was pressured by him and his client to "make signing this a priority" because his client couldn't make it to court.
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21 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Koch showed up at my trial as unprepared as if he had never met me. He did not use the evidence I supplied, failed to subpoena key witnesses, did not interview or even know what to ask my witnesses. Allowed multiple lies and fabrications to go unchecked, and did not provide even a modicum of defense. He is either grossly incompetent or in the pocket of the DA. As a result, I went to prison for a crime that never happened, of which there was no evidence, and after Mr Koch assured me that the case was a "slam dunk".
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11 Jul, 2018 by Jeff p.
Mr Koch was a blessing. I was facing a felony with up to multiple years in prison, and Mr. Koch got it reduced to a misdemeanor with ZERO time in prison. He was also able to help me maintain my Driver's license. In addition to being very knowledgeable, he was also very compassionate and understanding. I don't have enough kind words to say about Mr. Koch. If I could rate him higher than a five, I would. I recommend him to anyone facing charges in the Stafford area. While other attorneys were hesitant to defend a case in Stafford, Mr. Koch dove right in, and got the best results I could hope for. Give him a call, and you won't be disappointed!!
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14 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Koch saved my family. I was facing serious felony charges. During the process I had moments of doubt, but Mr. Koch's confidence always reassured me. My case went all the way to a jury trial and Mr. Koch was fantastic in the courtroom. He had a unique way of connecting with the jury and making the defendant appear to them as a human being with dignity. Mr. Koch aptly showed the jury that the charges against me didn't carry water and they found me not guilty on all counts. He is amazing!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Julianne carlisle
Brenda Greene was appointed as my attorney for a protection order, and I couldn’t have asked for better representation. As someone with a chronic illness that affects my cognitive abilities, I was grateful for her kindness, patience, and support. She made my first court experience much easier than I expected. Brenda was not only knowledgeable and professional but also incredibly personable and approachable. I unfortunately missed her after a brief step away from court, so I didn’t get to thank her in person—so here’s my heartfelt thank you!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Janice martin
If you are searching for a defense attorney I would strongly advise that you do not hire Tara Beth Coleman. She was appointed to my case by the circuit court. She does not return calls review evidence or even show up on time. She may have had some luck in a few cases that are considered high profile as for integrity and passion she lacks. Beware and find competent counsel to defend your reputation and freedom.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kenneth t.
I cannot put into word's how fantastic of an attorney Mr.Mayoras is other than "pure blessing"!!! I have dealt with attorneys in the past and have never received as much care and commitment and respect nor have been taken as seriously as I have with John. He represented me in a case where I was facing very serious charges and he did a fantastic job defending me throughout the entire process, especially in front of the jury!! He is very knowledgeable and detailed and was very professional the entire time and will do everything in his power to get you the justice you deserve which he went above and beyond on with this case and succeeded tremendously! so if you or a loved one is facing serious charges John Mayoras is the attorney for you. No other attorney will take your case as personal as John Mayoras!! Seriously I couldn't thank him enough and because of him I am forever grateful!!! John Mayoras is the only attorney I'd recommend in Virginia hands down!!!
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03 Aug, 2018 by Martin
I needed a pit bull in the courtroom and that was Ms. Krueger. Court can be a scary place, but she took control and I was confident she would make sure the truth came out. She was more prepared than anyone in the room and when she talked they listened. I'm glad I listened too when she was recommended to me! She was a fighter when I needed one and a tough negotiator too. I could tell she cared and she believed in my fight. Would never want any other lawyer on my side.
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26 Jul, 2018 by Nate
Ms. Krueger knows her stuff. She represented me in Spotsylvania County and really went above and beyond to help me navigate an unfamiliar process. She was accessible and spent the time with me I needed and I was confident she and her staff knew the facts of my case inside and out. She fought hard for me in court and never backed down. Let's just say I was glad she was on MY side. Thank you, Ms. Krueger!
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09 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
She is so horrible... I can't believe she don't believe in what I tell her , but believe in the other side attorneys...and she ask me to pay more fee to her right before the next trail day... and she lie about the time she use... when I ask her let me see the statement of the time use....she push my next trail date after 6 months later...and when I ready to change to a new attorney, she say she will tell the other attorneys , I can't afford to pay the attorney fee...she is very horrible attorney...
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13 May, 2022 by Curtis
I was going through a divorce and hired Woehrle Dahlberg Jones Yao PLLC, specially Mr. Dahlberg to help me with my divorce. I thought it was great that the initial consult was FREE, cause they usually range from $150-$400 for a 1 hour consult. He did a great job selling me on the phone, but in the 2 months he was on my case, this was 1 of the 2 times we talked, the other time was for 37 minutes, however - I would end up paying over $6,000 in legal fees for actions I did not request or approve. He has 3 paralegals, some of which whom work from home cause of COVID, abuse their rights and will file motions on your behalf without you knowing, without consulting with the apposing consult, whatever they can do to run up your bill. They charge for every single email, text, phone call (answered or un-answered, seriously!!) $52.50 to file any document into their E file system, which they want to file EVERYTHING and after they file it will charge another $52.50 to organize it, (upkeep). It took weeks to book an appointment with my attorney, honestly which I only got through to him one time after our consult, while he represented me for over 2 months and got absolutely no further in my case and charged, after nearly being charged for 20 hours of work, I only talked to my attorney 1 time for 37 minutes in these charges, "37 Minutes", charged for nearly 20 hours of work, I didn't approve any motions to be filed, these paralegals that work for Mr. Dahlberg, will run you dry without even asking for you consent. Highly recommend you choose a different attorney.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  1. 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.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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