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4.9
42 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Timur c
Back in 2022 I received 3 traffic tickets in single traffic stop that could have seriously impacted my driving record and my court date kept getting postponed until it finally set to be scheduled yesterday 01/22/2025. I wanna thank to Mr. Charles N. Pizzolo and his team, I’m glad that I found you guys. not they only they accepted my case in short notice (2days before the court date) but they were able to get my charges dismissed. They were responsive, explained the process clearly, and fought hard to get me the best possible outcome. I highly recommend them to anyone facing a traffic ticket!!!😎
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22 Jan, 2025 by Natiely collado
i would like to thank you for helping me out. He really work hard to help me and i appreciate it.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Melissa kornhaber
Stephanie and her team are the absolute best! Stephanie helped draft our will and close on our first home. She is kind, intelligent, thorough, patient and always available for our questions. We feel so safe in her loving arms.
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4.5
8 Reviews
4.8
641 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Kayla sarduy
Thank you so much !!! Very straightforward and Got the Job done !!!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Rosana ramrup
15 Jan, 2025 by Construction corp
If you want Peace and lower anxiety levels for any criminal related case I advice everyone to hire Mr. loTurco as he was an exceptional lawyer for me , because it is very hard to find a lawyers commitment to you, but with this firm I feel like there's someone that actually cares about my life and not just the fee. Best lawyers in Long Island hands down -love Syed
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09 Jan, 2025 by Patricia martinez
Incredible law firm! They communicate very well, and keep you updated throughout your case. Deserves more than five stars.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Kianna monroe
Mr. Vigliotti was able to get all of my cases dismissed! A conviction of any kind could’ve put my professional license in jeopardy. He also kept me updated every step of the way. Great lawyer! Would highly recommend to anyone with legal troubles.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Aamir hamja
Great family man and put up with a hundred questions from me, reassured me through everything and gave me a solid, realistic plan. No bs from this legend, would highly recommend 🙏🔥
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28 Sep, 2023 by Mark e
Martin is wonderful. He is not a shark who will go iaftet your money. He is honest and will not rip you off. A Rare find in the world of atorneys.
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02 May, 2023 by Joe l
A non defense atty friend on mine recommended Steve -all I can say is having Steve in our corner was akin to winning the lottery-he got my son out of some very serious binds--I really can't put into words what he's done for my son and our family-He's the go to guy- able to do what other's can't .
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09 Feb, 2023 by Ingrid
MR. lawyer Steven Gaitman I want to express my greatest gratitude, for all this time that you helped my brother and for the excellent work as a lawyer, God put you in our path
we are grateful to God because he accompanied us throughout this process
I remember the first day we looked for you to help us, they had recommended your person as a lawyer
We didn't know you, we went looking for you there in the courthouse without knowing who you were because we didn't know you, but God told me that when I saw you walk towards the elevator I stopped, looked back and saw you. . . . . . And at that moment God told me say his name out loud and he will listen and answer that it is him. And do you remember when you heard your name you said it's me they're looking for me? I tell you this because I am grateful to you and because God chose you to help us and help many people. God bless your life
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09 Nov, 2024 by J holman
Best attorney. I have ever had. Always returned my calls and I have had no issues with any court cases. I have referred him to numerous friends and family. 5 stars
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05 Oct, 2024 by Chris doherty
A potential 4 point violation was reduced to 0. Cannot recommend Michael enough.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Ian walsh
Michael A. DeVito is not only an amazing and well respected lawyer, he is an honorable and trustworthy man. As many of you may know, the process after an accident/injury can be tough mentally and physically, and the last thing you need is billing/medical/insurance to be a burden as well. From the beginning he made me feel as comfortable as I could be treating my case individually & not just as another number. He explained the process to me in its entirety giving me an honest timeframe; and always gave me the general understanding that he will take care of it, you just go to your doctors and focus on getting your body better! If you call he simply answers or always willingly returns the call, and if you’re still in need of something he is always willing to go the extra mile! I highly recommend having Michael A. DeVito represent you or anyone you may know!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Enrico
Keren Birnbaum was a pleasure to work with. She is professional, pleasant, and very patient answering all of our questions. She took her time and made sure we understood all the minor details and legalese that could be confusing. Keren made everything easy to digest and our meetings went smoothly. She placed everything into real-life circumstances so that we can better understand the decisions we had to make for our Estate Plan. My wife and I finished up our Estate documents with the confidence that we created an appropriate plan for our family's future. Thanks so much, Keren!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Rena delevie
Jaime Lewis took great care of me and my family. She was kind, compassionate, patient, and extremely knowledgeable. I felt safe sharing my details with her and she helped me understand my options. I'm grateful to have worked with Jaime Lewis and will do it again should I have the need.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Kenneth Steven Feraru for anyone seeking professional legal advice. I reached out with a concern regarding an MTA ticket, and they provided clear, helpful guidance that put my mind at ease. Their prompt and thorough response made all the difference, and I truly appreciated their expertise. I felt confident in their advice and would not hesitate to consult them again in the future.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Stephen conklin
Mark did an excellent job getting my ticket dismissed. High recommend thanks again Mark!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Stephanie foley
My husband and I were recommended to Mark Alter and we were so glad we proceeded to retain him. Mark kept thorough communication throughout the process, no matter what time of the day. He helped explain and interpret each step which really helped us get through a stressful event in our lives. Along with his immense amount of experience, I always felt he had our best interest at heart. We would definitely recommend him to a friend or a family member.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Emalie borne
Mark helped me with a ticket and was amazing. He thoroughly communicated everything with me and helped me a lot with the ticket. He was fast in calling me back when I called. I am definitely going to recommend him to anyone who asks for an attorney
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28 Sep, 2023 by Mark e
Martin is wonderful. He is not a shark who will go iaftet your money. He is honest and will not rip you off. A Rare find in the world of atorneys.
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02 Nov, 2017 by Danny c.
08 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
William Petrillo is just an amazing blend of magnificent attorney and wonderful human being. When I stepped foot into his office the warmth and genuine concern shined immediately. His knowledge and ability astounded me. I knew within 5 minutes of speaking with him that this was the man I would entrust my future too. Today the outcome of my case is proof positive I made the right choice. After this experience I am left thinking there are attorney’s you could hire to protect you and there are those that you enlist to be your guardian angel. Bill falls squarely and unequivocally into the second category. Anytime I needed reassurance he was there. His staff was there. They were always there insulating me from the fears of possible incarceration and the complete ruination of my career. You truly know a person has your best interest in mind from the bottom of their heart when they stand to make more money the longer your situation drags out and they dedicate themselves wholly and tirelessly to expediting the process as much as humanly possible. That’s Bill Petrillo. I cannot recommend this man enough. 5 stars just doesn’t give his ability the justice it deserves. If my life were at stake in a criminal matter ever again I would trust NO ONE besides Bill. No one at all!
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02 Nov, 2022 by Golda suazo
17 Nov, 2016 by Amy wahab
Mr. Gelberg is a very experienced attorney ,he is very knowledge in his field.I would recommend him to all my friends and family.
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15 Jan, 2011 by Lahiesha
My family and I have had the recent opportunity of hiring Mr Tomoa for a Federal Criminal Case. His profound levels of expertise and professionalism were a blessing to us. My significant other was facing a 5-15 year sentence, and was awarded a 22 month sentence; thanks to Peter Tomoa and his partner. We will forever be grateful for his exemplary service.
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25 Mar, 2022 by Mark keeling
11 Dec, 2020 by Denise steinhardt
12 Oct, 2020 by George steen
23 Jan, 2025 by Kayla sarduy
Thank you so much !!! Very straightforward and Got the Job done !!!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Rosana ramrup
15 Jan, 2025 by Construction corp
If you want Peace and lower anxiety levels for any criminal related case I advice everyone to hire Mr. loTurco as he was an exceptional lawyer for me , because it is very hard to find a lawyers commitment to you, but with this firm I feel like there's someone that actually cares about my life and not just the fee. Best lawyers in Long Island hands down -love Syed
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kayla sarduy
Thank you so much !!! Very straightforward and Got the Job done !!!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Rosana ramrup
15 Jan, 2025 by Construction corp
If you want Peace and lower anxiety levels for any criminal related case I advice everyone to hire Mr. loTurco as he was an exceptional lawyer for me , because it is very hard to find a lawyers commitment to you, but with this firm I feel like there's someone that actually cares about my life and not just the fee. Best lawyers in Long Island hands down -love Syed
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15 Jan, 2024 by Craig
I had the privilege to have Mazzei & Polk, LLC represent me in multiple matters including litigation and other platforms such as real estate, startup advice and general questions to address challenges. I have worked with Jennifer Mazzei for years and she has been an integral part of allowing me to get answers where nothing was ‘sugar coated.’ Jennifer was a part of the team from Day 1 and has helped me with her understanding of the law in a reassuring, articulate and straightforward way. You will not regret introducing colleagues to the firm due to their acumen, execution, vision and cost-effective rates. They have integrity, know-how and most importantly, a ‘service oriented’ approach.
I would highly recommend them for any situation you are in or maybe facing.
Craig
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17 Jun, 2022 by Maria & george
I highly recommend Jennifer Mazzei as your immigration lawyer. Due to her excellent knowledge of immigration law I became a permanent resident of the U.S. From the beginning, Jennifer explained to us all the steps we have to go through and the process went as expected. During my entire immigration process, Jennifer was highly professional, very meticulous and caring. My husband and I are extremely grateful to her as she was always there when needed. Jennifer sure is truly the Best Immigration lawyer and a wonderful person. I recommend her services to all people who need immigration assistance. Thank you again Jennifer for everything! You are an outstanding lawyer!
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10 Feb, 2022 by Robert
Ms. Mazzei is very bright, an excellent attorney. We hired her to defend my son on a misdemeanor and to me, his dad, it didn't look too good. But she showed up in Court totally prepared and somehow managed to get the charge dismissed (after probation). Her results exceeded our expectations. Hopefully we never are in this position again, but if we were, we'd hire her again in an instant.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Cathy
Matthew was knowledgeable, accountable and responsive throughout the eviction process: it was comforting to know we had an advocate on our side during a stressful time in our lives, especially since this was our second attorney working on the same case. We can tell that he holds himself to a high set of standards which is not an easy quality to find these days.
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15 Jul, 2022 by Alena
Matt did it again for the third time! Always very knowledgeable and gets to the point. He handled our closing with ease and closing day took one hour. We will continue to use him!
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13 Jul, 2022 by Marc
Both Matthew and Donna were very helpful in explaining the process and responding to our questions. We were impressed with their knowledge and the fact that the actual closing day took about one hour to complete.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Stenley kuffour
15 Feb, 2025 by Bruno mantovani
14 Feb, 2025 by Ahmet kavas
20 Feb, 2025 by Stenley kuffour
15 Feb, 2025 by Bruno mantovani
14 Feb, 2025 by Ahmet kavas
23 Jan, 2025 by Kayla sarduy
Thank you so much !!! Very straightforward and Got the Job done !!!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Rosana ramrup
15 Jan, 2025 by Construction corp
If you want Peace and lower anxiety levels for any criminal related case I advice everyone to hire Mr. loTurco as he was an exceptional lawyer for me , because it is very hard to find a lawyers commitment to you, but with this firm I feel like there's someone that actually cares about my life and not just the fee. Best lawyers in Long Island hands down -love Syed
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06 Dec, 2024 by Ifrah ansari
We cannot recommend BETA enough! The whole process was smooth sailing and comforting. Buying a house is nerve wracking but we had the most amazing support from BETA! Amazing people, amazing company. They make you their #1 priority! 10/10!!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Arnie jonassen
I contacted Anthony Lopresti to assist in my divorce. Not only did Anthony take care of everything but he also had me awarded some of my ex wife's pension. He was clear in explaining everything in easy to understand terms. When we showed up at court he was there early and went over everything with me before hand. He truly is an expert in the field he practices in. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Christopher minafo (the photorealist)
*Excellent Service from Beta Abstract—Highly Recommend**
I recently used Beta Abstract for the closing on my home, and the experience was outstanding. From the very beginning, their team was professional, responsive, and incredibly efficient. They made sure everything was handled with precision, and their attention to detail was evident throughout the entire process. Ask for Marc, he is your guy! Communication was seamless, and they were always available to answer my questions or provide updates. What really impressed me was how quickly they were able to coordinate and finalize everything—I was amazed at how smoothly the closing went. If you're looking for a reliable title company that truly cares about its clients, I highly recommend Beta Abstract. They exceeded my expectations and made the home-buying process way easier than expected!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Enrico
Keren Birnbaum was a pleasure to work with. She is professional, pleasant, and very patient answering all of our questions. She took her time and made sure we understood all the minor details and legalese that could be confusing. Keren made everything easy to digest and our meetings went smoothly. She placed everything into real-life circumstances so that we can better understand the decisions we had to make for our Estate Plan. My wife and I finished up our Estate documents with the confidence that we created an appropriate plan for our family's future. Thanks so much, Keren!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Rena delevie
Jaime Lewis took great care of me and my family. She was kind, compassionate, patient, and extremely knowledgeable. I felt safe sharing my details with her and she helped me understand my options. I'm grateful to have worked with Jaime Lewis and will do it again should I have the need.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Robert perkins
Very thorough and engaging. Jaime is a pleasure to work with.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Patricia martinez
Incredible law firm! They communicate very well, and keep you updated throughout your case. Deserves more than five stars.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Kianna monroe
Mr. Vigliotti was able to get all of my cases dismissed! A conviction of any kind could’ve put my professional license in jeopardy. He also kept me updated every step of the way. Great lawyer! Would highly recommend to anyone with legal troubles.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Aamir hamja
Great family man and put up with a hundred questions from me, reassured me through everything and gave me a solid, realistic plan. No bs from this legend, would highly recommend 🙏🔥
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kayla sarduy
Thank you so much !!! Very straightforward and Got the Job done !!!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Rosana ramrup
15 Jan, 2025 by Construction corp
If you want Peace and lower anxiety levels for any criminal related case I advice everyone to hire Mr. loTurco as he was an exceptional lawyer for me , because it is very hard to find a lawyers commitment to you, but with this firm I feel like there's someone that actually cares about my life and not just the fee. Best lawyers in Long Island hands down -love Syed
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kayla sarduy
Thank you so much !!! Very straightforward and Got the Job done !!!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Rosana ramrup
15 Jan, 2025 by Construction corp
If you want Peace and lower anxiety levels for any criminal related case I advice everyone to hire Mr. loTurco as he was an exceptional lawyer for me , because it is very hard to find a lawyers commitment to you, but with this firm I feel like there's someone that actually cares about my life and not just the fee. Best lawyers in Long Island hands down -love Syed
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05 Mar, 2024 by Johnny from brooklyn (gage and tolner)year 2000.
Hi my name is johnny mr david schwartz represent me one year 1998 and he dismissed my charges is the best lawyer in NYc top lawyer in USA god bless you Mr David schwartz.i.will never ever forget Your help to me thank you very very much.I will advise any person in NYC or USA who has any problems in the criminal court to hire Mr David Schwarz because he is the best lawyer in NYC top lawyers in USA great personality. Great lawyer he fights so hard for his clients and he very serous about wining his cases no case is small case for him all the cases, all the clients are equal and very important for him,I will live until I ll die i will never ever forget your help Mr David schwartz,thank you very very much for your help,god bless you and your family.
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26 May, 2012 by Al
I was in big trouble and he got my case dismissed
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26 Nov, 2024 by Seth feinman
Scott is one of the best in the business. True professional and expert in his field. I highly recommend.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Salvatore bertolini
The best in the business.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Eric frischberg
20 Feb, 2025 by Stenley kuffour
15 Feb, 2025 by Bruno mantovani
14 Feb, 2025 by Ahmet kavas
04 Jan, 2025 by Grit kuhnen
13 Dec, 2024 by Kelly bossard
Highly recommend Kamini Fox. She is a consummate professional who knows her business very well.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Scott nalls
The service was excellent! Kamini was smart and very approachable to different strategies to get our program complete. She has a lot of wisdom and was able to push back appropriately. I would highly recommend!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Lenka -
Robert is the best of the best in regards to criminal law. I’ve known him for many years but recently worked with him in a professional capacity when a close friend needed a criminal lawyer. Robert was a bulldog in court and made the entire case disappear with no criminal record. I didn’t even know that was possible! Worth every penny!
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21 Feb, 2025 by George adams
Tsigler Law is a great firm.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Isroil shukurov
I had a great experience with the Sanders Law firm. The firm did amazing job. I greatly thankful for the Brooklyn office. They are truly amazing people you can trust. Special thanks for Shahzoda who really helped me through this process. Thank you!
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20 Feb, 2025 by Stenley kuffour
15 Feb, 2025 by Bruno mantovani
14 Feb, 2025 by Ahmet kavas
21 Jan, 2025 by Minatha michel
The best lawyers to work with,, I have to change so many lawyers before I met Gail Saul. She’s very good in what she does. I will recommend her to anyone who’s going to a difficult divorce anytime. Thank you so much.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Only out for any long term contacts he can make , did not act in my family’s best interest and betrayed my interests. Tread carefully if you choose.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Shirley
During what was undoubtedly one of the most challenging times of my life, Marc Ialenti proved to be an invaluable support. He navigated through my divorce proceedings with compassion and grace. Marc was thorough in his approach making sure I understood my options for selling the house and child support. His genuine care and empathy made a significant difference in my experience. Marc’s professionalism and timely communication helped alleviate my stress in this emotional process. I am deeply grateful for his service and highly recommend him to anyone facing similar circumstances.
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06 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Jim , is a good lawyer very knowledgeable however we found it troublesome that we had to send requested paperwork on numerous occasions and having to call and check to ask why haven't you called to go over the paperwork in the case.We were told he didn't remember receiving it and please send again which happen on more then 1 occasion.As well it seemed he had no desire to fight for anything else but what was offered but excepted the easy way out ,Although he was very sympathetic and seemed caring we felt he had loss his fight that we were told he had over the many years he was know for at.his law practice. The case worked out ,however it wasn't an easy road having to constantly call and check in to discuss what he said was important details needed to be worked on for our case. Then to be told its not needed Each call seemed to be like the first starting from scratch each time . Very nice man , again extremely knowledgeable , caring. Perhaps some cases over so many years arent worth fighting for anymore .
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28 Oct, 2021 by Jd
I retained Jim Druker in February of 2018 to help resolve a tax problem I had stemming to events from 2010. I had been referred to him through another contact on LinkedIn. When I first got in touch with him I was frantic; and honestly remained frantic for the next 3 years but he never wavered in trying to keep me calm. Jim patiently and empathetically responded to my inquiries (though he was likely cursing me when he hung up the phone or responded to my longwinded emails). Jim was not warm and fuzzy but always optimistic that the issues would somehow get resolved. He truly never wavered on his resolve to help me get the issues I had settled in the best possible way. He didn't hold me hostage to invoices or finances but rather stayed true to his word when he was first engaged. Lesser men would have ignored my calls and my frantic emails, Jim did not. I will never in a lifetime be able to fully repay Jim for everything he did for me and for my family. I can only hope that this review provides some level of adequate thanks for his years of filing and re-filing. In the end, he kept his promise. And again, a lesser man might have given up (or gotten fed up with me). I would recommend Jim in a heartbeat. I trusted him with my life. And while I hope never, ever to speak to him about my personal finances again, if I were nearby, I would not hesitate to ask him for dinner. You simply cannot ask for a better person or attorney for legal representation of any kind, no less taxes or fraud.
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31 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Jim was patient, thorough and persistent throughout our case. We had mismanaged areas of our business for years and required legal assistance to help negotiate and manage our way back. Jim's fee structure was completely transparent. He did everything he said he would do.
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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.
