Filter by

star star star star star
29 Jul, 2022 by Angela jenkins (doodlebug)
Janet is an amazing attorney!!! I highly recommend here 😊
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2019 by Jeffery
He represented me regarding a wrongful traffic violation in Hood county and I was pleased. He was on time, looked professional and came prepared, having researched me and my case. I recommend him!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Handle a case for me in Palo Pinto county ( tough county ) always professional never BS me treated my wife and family with respect and care for the circumstances! You need help definitely call Shay
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2024 by Quest ballard
The team here is truly what they claim to be, ethically sound ,fair but take no bull bunch! They assisted me in navigating a very unique and lengthy divorce. However in the end all was handled cordially, and in the immediate sense, with unwavering commitment to seeing this settled, with amicable results. "Thank you"- Quest Ballard
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2024 by Christie hill
I cannot express the gratitude I have for Mr. Walsh and his team. Very pleased with their work ethics and communications, they helped make everything run so smoothly. Thank you!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2024 by Lashawn henson
Mr Walsh has helped me several times over the years, he's great with communication and honest about what to expect. He's worth every dime. You're seriously cheating yourself if you don't hire him.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2024 by Pam aldriedge
I was referred to the law office of Pamela Walker and hired Attorney Tracy Bush to represent me in a probate matter. Tracy was so kind and knowledgeable about the matter. She made us feel very comfortable and at ease with how she handled our case. Tracy is very professional and made us feel very confident in how our case was being handled.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Jeff christensen
Used this Law office and used Tracy Bush for probate guidance at a particularly difficult time for me and my family in late 2000 thru mid 2022. 3 family members from one household passed away in a 2 week period in Dec. 2000 so there were many things to work through. Tracy and her staff, thru the Law office of Pamela Walker were very thorough and detailed in their advisements and helped us greatly in getting all 3 estates closed in what we believe was a shorter time than might have been. I would recommend them highly for any civil or probate needs you may have.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2024 by Levona patton
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Aug, 2024 by Chris newton
Mr. Hyde helped us immensely when we are beginning the Medicare/medicaid journey with our Dad. He is very honest with his advise and went the extra mile for us. We recommend him highly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Jul, 2024 by Mark drumheller
I will always recommend Hyde Law. Number one family law attorneys in town!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jun, 2024 by Ricky bobby
Need to update the services you provide. States you handle Legal Malpractice. I called in to check and was told you don't...
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 May, 2020 by Dave
Lori filed a motion to modify a protective order for me on a Thursday afternoon and by Friday morning the judge had already approved and signed the order. Lori is a professional in every sense of the word. Kind courteous and caring! I highly recommend her for any of your legal needs.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Feb, 2020 by Rhonda
Lori did an exceptional job for us on an adoption case. She went way beyond what was expected and put in many hours making sure that this adoption went through. I don't know what we would have done without her outstanding work!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Feb, 2020 by Rachel
If you want the best hire Lori. Not only is she the most knowledgeable attorney I've ever met but she supports her clients 100%. She is trustworthy, hard-working, and efficient when it comes to handling her cases. She goes above and beyond for her clients and treats them with the upmost respect. We cannot thank her enough for what she did for our family. Our daughter has her forever family because of Lori's actions! She made our family whole and I wouldn't trust anyone else. Thank you Lori for being the best!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Melinda Owens came highly recommended from a close friend and she has provided legal advice and guidance during a lawsuit to collect money from a former business client. I found her to be experienced, responsive, knowledgable and honest. While working with Melinda, I felt as though my situation was in adept and trustworthy hands, and she did not steer me wrong. I would highly recommend Melinda to anyone seeking legal representation that is fair, honest and will keep your best interest and unique needs at the forefront. Should the situation arise, I would not hesitate to seek representation from Mrs. Owens team again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I was misguided and told that if I allowed my child to go live with his dad prior to our change of custody orders being final, if ANYTHING happened, I could go pick him up and THEN she would deal with the paperwork. Unfortunately, fact was...legally, once I went against the then current orders, and allowed him to go out of schedule...I had no leg to stand on.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Jun, 2017 by Dave
Melinda Owens represented me in my recent divorce and I want to share my thoughts on her representation: She may be pricier than some other attorneys, but I think her expertise in family law and her availability when you have questions are worth it. Don't be afraid to check out other attorneys, but definitely do not miss Melinda. I think you'll find that she's the kind of attorney you want on your side. Her office is conveniently located very close to the courthouse (judicial annex). She was relentless when it came to representing my interests. She helped ensure not only that my ex-wife or the court didn't take my child from me, but that I'd keep my income so that I'm able to raise my child. I pestered her at some odd times of day with some stressful questions about what my ex-wife could and could not do in my home and to my property. Melinda always answered timely and with answers that were very appreciated. She made stressful situations much easier to deal with. In the end, I think my divorce ended about as fairly as could be, and I owe much of that to Melinda Owens.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Jun, 2016 by Emeigh
I am very glad that I went to see Pamela Walker to have my will drawn up. She was very kind to me, explained everything very well, and the whole process was easy. I had been putting off having a will made for sometime, but Pamela Walker made this a pleasant experience. I would recommend her to anyone who wants a really great attorney who takes the time to explain things. Top rated A#1 in my book.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2014 by Britain
I paid this so called attorney $100.00 for what ended up being the worst experience with someone who is suppose to be on your side . This is what happened that day...November 25, 2013...My fifteen year old son and I arrived at Pamela A Walker's Law Office located in Granbury, Texas in hopes that she would help in a matter which concerned another county worker in which he had suddenly and abruptly thrown me and my son out of his office because I was trying to get him to explain "Teen Court" which my son had agreed to participate in as his punishment for smoking a cigar on school ground's with two others on the last day of school 2013, but only after being subtly coerced by several county officials days previously in a make shift county court. Upon arriving at Mrs. Walker's office, I came to observe her husband was her secretary. While sitting waiting for our appointment I over heard Mrs. Walker talking to a Judge from the county and worried that he may not like what she was wearing when she was to appear in court in front of him that evening. She seemed to be trying her best to appease the Judge. Soon Mrs. Walker came from behind the wall dividing us and ushered my son and I into her office. Immediately Mrs. Walker attempted to focus all her attention on my son and convince him to "do", as she put it, "Teen Court". When I tried to explain why I hired her she abruptly told me I was being "confrontational". Her eyes immediately went back to my son as she was trying her best to win his confidence by flattering him and telling him he looks like a good boy. Everything was about "looks" to this less than physically appealing homely late fifties possibly, woman. Every time I would try to say something she looked very sternly at me and again repeated that I was being "confrontational" . She even threatened to put me out of the room, which she finally accomplished after making my son start to cry, but assumed he was crying because of possible "abuse" at home?? At one point she asked my son if he was on medication, because of the way his eyes looked. My son and I immediately told her he had allergies and was recently diagnosed as being allergic to practically everything. Mrs. Walker informed my son that he would need to bring proof of his allergies to "Teen Court" so others wouldn't think he was on drugs and in order to prove his innocence to the court. What Mrs. Walker said right then and there was what I had suspected "Teen Court" was about all along. Teen Court is only to make matters worse for all those young innocent unsuspecting children that are slyly mislead when appearing before the county Justices in this town. As far as the man, (a former Sargent with the Granbury Police Dept, and whom misrepresented himself when he introduced himself to me and my son as "Investigator", days previously) in charge of signing unsuspecting children up for "Teen Court"...I realized he was the one who first labeled me "confrontational" because he had to come up with an excuse why he suddenly threw me and my son out of his office when we went to sign up and after I tried to prob him for answers about "Teen Court". I came to see that this attorney was working in cahoots with the former investigator/Sargent and officials, all in an attempt to entrap my son in "Teen Court" if was possible. Because obviously according to Mrs. Pamela Walker, the prosecuting teens can ask any questions they want about you, your friends, your family, your aunts, uncles step-dads, etc., about smoking, drugs, stealing...whatever they want. No wonder they were so excited to get my son and other unsuspecting young adults into their little county "Teen Court". According to an Ex Sheriff I dated ...the criminals are the ones running the county! He admitted he was mentally ill and that most cops are sick in the head! Well, to not make a long story short, My son changed his plea and is paying the $214.00 fine instead. Some advice...Stay clear of Hood County, Texas!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Jul, 2013 by William
Hands down the best lawyer in hood county. She handle a cs under one gram case for me and in seven business days she called and said not To worry about the case no more. thank you William B
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Cindy
When we first moved to Hood county we had a problem with a homeowners insurance claim and did not have a local attorney. Asking several of our more affluent friends for a suggestion of a good local law firm, the consensus recommendation was Grady Swindel. Grady met with my husband and I for over 2 hours, mapped a strategy, for us to pursue on our own with the insurance company and the appropriate state regulators, and only charged us $250.00. Over the years my husband and I have spent thousands for legal services for our different business interests and not always had such practical, effective, advice. For those who are reluctant to pay a $250.00 consultation fee we would suggest you find a young attorney who is just starting their practice. If you want to achieve a successful solution to your problems you will probably be better served by an experienced attorney like Mr. Swindel whose time is a valuable asset.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2019 by Abby
Mr. Swindle represented me in my recent divorce. And, I want to give kudos to he and his staff. He is the least expensive attorney in town. I shopped around and found him. He also allowed me to make payments to him which I could not get any other attorney in town to do so. This was helpful on a strict budget. I think his expertise in family law and his availability when you have questions are worth it. I think you'll find that he is the kind of attorney you want on your side. He was relentless when it came to representing my interests. He helped ensure not only that my ex or the court would not take my child from me but that I would get support from him and would be able to raise my child without worry and stress of being broke all of the time. Mr. Swindle always answered timely and with answers that were very appreciated. He made stressful situations much easier to deal with. He is so kind. His assistant and secretary were so very nice and helpful as well. They made me laugh and took my worries away. In the end, I think my divorce ended about as fairly as could be, and I owe it all to Grady L. Swindle.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2019 by Sue
Recommend Grady Swindle in a heartbeat. We were looking for a lawyer to handle a fairly unusual international property, wills and trust situation. Grady Swindle handled our affairs very professionally and with a lovely Texan manner. Would recommend him and his team in a heartbeat. Very happy. When my husband was hospitalized part way through the process Grady stepped up to ensure that we were covered legally. Five stars well earned.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2022 by Jacob
I had him as a court appointmented attorney in 1996 and he sat there and did literally nothing while Richard Hattox the DA at the time ripped him apart and convinced a jury to give a 17 year old boy 35 1/2 years in prison for a burglary!!!! Garbage!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
The Judge held an Arraignment hearing before trial was to begin in front of a sitting Jury and Mr. Ottaway did nothing. The D.A. submitted perjured evidence and Mr. Ottaway did nothing. When asked to cross examine a witness, Mr. Ottaway said, I have no questions for thia witness. Because of him I was falsely convicted of a crime I never committed and I was torn away from my family for 10 years.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I consulted with this attorney and he represented me in a custody case that involved severe domestic violence. He made remarks joking about domestic violence in the courtroom to another attorney before my hearing. He became biased towards the other party by asking the judge that I pay for the supervised visits. He did not represent me and made me feel like I was being persecuted on the stand. After it was all said and done he yelled at me and insinuated that I stayed in the relationship so I brought it upon myself. If you are dealing with a serious matter I would not use this attorney. He ruined my life.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Lawrence to represent my business interests in small claims court to recoup money unlawfully used by my ex-business partner. I paid a flat fee of roughly $500 for what we assumed would be a quick case as I had collected vast amounts of evidence. Initially, I was relieved to have an attorney working my case. However, my experience quickly took a downward spiral. First, we tried sending letters to try to reconcile out of court. I spent hours writing a draft of the key information. When I presented it to Mr. Lawrence, he charged me another $100 to put his letter head on my draft and covered the cost of shipping after I corrected some mistakes he made. After another similar letter, we hired a constable to physically deliver the court papers. Mr. Lawrence coordinated everything and sent me the bill. My ex-partner had fled with no trace and we couldn’t confirm that papers were served. So, Mr. Lawrence placed an ad in the local newspaper to meet the requirement. Again, he coordinated everything and sent me the bill without consulting with me on the price beforehand. A few months quickly turned into a year with seemingly no progress. During this time, it would typically be a month or longer before receiving an emailed update on the status of my case. He would usually respond after I emailed, sometimes multiple times, to check in. About a week before the one-year mark of beginning this effort, I received a call around 3:30pm from Mr. Lawrence that I finally had a court date scheduled for early the next morning. I had less than 24hrs to coordinate time-off, arrange lodging, and drive over 200 miles away to appear for my hearing. I had no warning. While in the court room waiting for my case, Mr. Lawrence took a phone call and walked out. The bailor called me up before the judge, but had to leave court to retrieve my attorney. When presenting my case, Mr. Lawrence seemed very much unprepared to represent me. He did not have a clear approach to present the evidence and didn’t seem to know how much I was requesting, as he told the judge a number that was about $4K less than I was claiming. Fortunately, I had bought all the evidence I had collected because Mr. Lawrence didn’t appear to bring any deliverables for the judge to review. I felt like I had presented my own case alone. Ultimately, despite expecting a default judgement, the judge pushed my case to next level of authority. Mr. Lawrence had not made it clear to me that there was a limit to how much could be requested in small claims court and we hadn’t strategized prior to the hearing to keep my case below that level. I left court incredible upset and disappointed that I had wasted a year and a significant amount of money, when Mr. Lawrence could have easily guided us to a reasonable default judgement, to be told to start over. I had already considered firing Mr. Lawrence from my case multiple, this situation didn’t help, but I gave him one last chance. We discussed what went wrong, how we would reapproach at the next level, and how he would do better communicating with me. Unfortunately, after another few months, nothing changed and no progress was made. God put it on my heart to forgive my ex-partner and no longer pursue my case to recoup my losses. Fortunately, I think Mr. Lawrence recognized how fed up I was with this process and when I asked him to cancel my case he didn’t charge any more than he already had to close it. Very frustrating experience. I will not be returning to Mr. Lawrence or recommending him to anyone I know. However, by the end, I think he recognized how awful my experience was with him and agreed not to charge me anymore than I had already paid. This one redeeming factor is why I’ve given him two-stars.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 May, 2022 by Anonymous
This fat Mexican was thrown off the bench by the good folks in Hood County! He was a dishonest, two-faced, drunkard who never shaved and always had a worn out judge robe on. Now that he was booted out of office he should go back to school to learn the law.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:

  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.

Scroll to top