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5.0
21 Reviews
4.8
80 Reviews
21 Jan, 2025 by Sammia
I am eternally greatful to have found Mr. Goldman. Not only was he very professional he has genuine care for his clients and their situations. Not only did he help me legally during my most difficult times he was also there for me emotionally and was supportive. Mr. Goldman is a true blessing when your in your darkest hours and feeling hopeless. I appreciate all of his services and would highly recommend him as an attorney to everyone.
His paralegal Amanda is amazing as well she was also supportive both legally and emotionally. They are an amazing team and I am happy that I was able to retain them and have the results I was hopping for.
Not only are they kind to their clients but they were also very patient and kind with my ex and helping him as well through the process.
No amount of words can express my happiness and gratitude for Mr. Goldman.
God bless.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Bridgette dollhopf
Jonathan and Amanda are great to work with. They were very timely and responsive when I needed them and always answered all my questions. The retaining fee was very reasonable, and they were very responsible with the funds using Amanda when able and Jonathan when necessary. I would highly recommend!
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13 Nov, 2024 by Nicholas leider
Jonathan was fantastic with an issue that resurfaced 15+ years after my divorce. I would highly recommend him for anything! His wealth of knowledge and high professionalism made a very stressful situation manageable.
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.6
5 Reviews
08 Jul, 2024 by J c
08 Jul, 2024 by Stacey bolen
Attorney Dickey was the attorney on behalf of my son and myself in a very stressful and financial ruin for both of us. His professionalism, knowledge and compassion he had towards us the entire time we were working with him proved to us that there would be no other Attorney we would have wanted to help with this lawsuit. His hard work and dedication to not only our insurance company but to my son and myself showed volumes on not only who is as an Attorney but as a person as well! I would highly recommend Attorney Dickey and his Law Firm to anyone I know in the future. There are not enough stars to show our gratitude to him and his staff. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, keep being who you are because that's what makes you an outstanding person! Stacey and Taylor.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Cowcountryvintagesewing machinesandrestoration
Spoke with Ann at the prompting of Attorney Todd Simon, who highly recommended her. After a lengthy conversation with her, it's clear why Todd had such high regards for her. She is very insightful, a straight shooter, cutting through the emotional elements, and zeroing on the facts. While direct, she was also very caring, and generous with her time. Highly recommend!!
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4.9
17 Reviews
4.8
204 Reviews
13 Dec, 2024 by Debbie rivas
WOW. David is an amazing lawyer and took the time to connect with us on the case and made sure that we understood everything going on. He is down to earth and professional. Working with him was truly an amazing experience
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03 Nov, 2024 by Amara hill
03 Nov, 2024 by Yousef motors
David one of the best the Lawyer i deal with he helped me with my case Very professional and honest always answer my questions even when he busy I Highly recommended him in any Family case
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02 Jan, 2024 by Jason curtis
Made my prosecuting attorney tuck his tail, proved he had no case, took it all the way to trial. Ask for Linnea, she knows her stuff.
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15 Dec, 2022 by Paul lafond
Britteny was incredibly helpful and professional.She explained things in a way my husband and I were able to understand we highly recommend her to others
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15 Dec, 2022 by Family ofsix
Im not even sure where to begin in my appreciation and praise for everything P&D did to save myself and my family from tragedy. Falsely accused of a felony crime not by an individual but by the state itself and against the state, P&D and my attorney Brittney Lafond went above and beyond to make the courts respect my rights and my due process which I might add Wisconsin has no problem violating both. Facing a 6 year sentence for exercising my first amendment right to protest an illegal arrest of my minor son corrupt Brown County prosecutors were willing to use all power of the state to cover-up the deliberate and illegal actions of public officials and to prosecute me to the fullest extent of the law to facilitate the cover-up. Without the dedicated team at P&D I surely would have been just one more victim of Brown Counties version of justice. Sadly all the public officials who committed misconduct and even some felonies have all escaped justice mainly because in Wisconsin public officials are allowed to commit felonies as long as they re acting in their official capacity. I owe this firm and Brittney Lafond my life.
Scott Ellis
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14 Jan, 2025 by Philip (aspiring voiceactor)
Had an entrapment case out of Oconto Wisconsin where the ex DA Edward Burke was able to coerce Todd to work against me. The pictures detailing the brief of my case will tell you everything you need to know about what happened. Thank you to attorney William Gergen who revealed that the police have to ask for permission to arrest me because there was no crime. Turns out Judge Michael Judge is also corrupt because he did nothing despite the facts being presented. I will expose them. Top 5% attorney? Hardly!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Live die
He went above and beyond as an attorney I would recommend him to anyone that needs an OWI attorney. -Diana B.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Alesia kroeker
Todd is a phenomenal lawyer and answered all of questions and helped me through everything, even when court was finished. I am very grateful for Todd and the work his team does!
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4.0
4 Reviews
4.7
16 Reviews
23 Apr, 2024 by Laura rost
Nothing but good to say. I unfortunately I had a situation and had to work with Eric. However he turned a horrifying situation into a manageable situation and very quickly. I would highly highly recomend him to anyone.
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17 Apr, 2024 by William matt jr
Based on reviews, it is more obvious Eric picks and chooses whom he treats fair, he had aided the courts in the weaponization of my mental health against myself to further than damage already inflicted, best to document your meetings with this person to ensure you do not find yourself ensnared in his malpractice. Had claimed he had been in contact with me yet my emails to his firm has proven differently until most recently, he had failed to notify my self of the individual (accusor) whom pursued hate crimes against my self had fled to a new department, has failed to address any concerns I had addressed such as suppression of evidence held by the GBPD, the editing of an interrogation video as well as the withholding of my possessions that are not involved.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Trinity barkow
most understanding attorney ever! talked me through a lot of things! 10/10 recommend
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13 Dec, 2024 by Debbie rivas
WOW. David is an amazing lawyer and took the time to connect with us on the case and made sure that we understood everything going on. He is down to earth and professional. Working with him was truly an amazing experience
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03 Nov, 2024 by Amara hill
03 Nov, 2024 by Yousef motors
David one of the best the Lawyer i deal with he helped me with my case Very professional and honest always answer my questions even when he busy I Highly recommended him in any Family case
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13 Dec, 2024 by Debbie rivas
WOW. David is an amazing lawyer and took the time to connect with us on the case and made sure that we understood everything going on. He is down to earth and professional. Working with him was truly an amazing experience
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03 Nov, 2024 by Amara hill
03 Nov, 2024 by Yousef motors
David one of the best the Lawyer i deal with he helped me with my case Very professional and honest always answer my questions even when he busy I Highly recommended him in any Family case
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21 Oct, 2023 by Nate
He helped get charges dropped for driving while revoked (without my knowledge) and got a DUI charge reduced quite a bit
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27 Jul, 2022 by Kyle
Mark was so lovely to deal with and very professional. He was very on the ball and dealt with everything in a timely matter with a positive outcome. Very trust worthy and reliable.
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23 Dec, 2020 by Tasha
Attorney Howe quite literally saved my life & I don't say that lightly. When I had just about gave up & accepted my life was ruined, Howe brought back hope when I desperately needed it. He listened to my long & complicated story with complete patience & compassion & most importantly believed me. He fought for me & showed me the importance of not giving up despite the odds that seemed stacked against me. I would recommend Howe if you find yourself in a difficult & hard spot, he will listen to your story & he will fight for you & give you hope when you need it most. I honestly don't know how my life would've turned out if it had not been for him. I have my life back, my reputation, my goals & dreams are still alive, & despite going through one of the most traumatic experiences of my life, Howe showed me there's truly still good people out there who care & will be there to help you through the dark times to show you the light again. Thank you so much Mr. Howe for everything you've done for me & showing me why you should never give up, no matter what!
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29 Sep, 2022 by Sarah
Carley is a family oriented person who is way undervalued for the work she puts into her clients. Highly recommend her, worth every penny!!
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30 Oct, 2021 by Adriana
My lawyer walk out on my case when I was trying to win my kid back in I will like somebody that willing to help me fight in win for my baby girl back please
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18 Jul, 2022 by Jeff
I was extremely fortunate to have had Mathew appointed as my attorney. Now, I know any attorney will slid in there i belive you are innocent or im here for you and to insure your rights are not taken lightly and abused. But, this man stuck with me even when the judge and the state's attorney exemplified just how obtuse our legal system is. None the less, he listened, observed and strategized an attack that took back my constitutional rights that the wisconsin legal mafia tried to steal f r om me.
Thank you Matthew
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29 Jun, 2022 by Ryan
Matt is a great lawyer . He goes through ur charge or charges throughly. D.a. was asking 6months he got me time served no probation that's awesome plus he actually comes to see u and go over any changes that there may be.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Peggy george
Ashley was very knowledgeable and provided realistic expectations for processing my claim.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Tammy heinrich
Ashley & team were a pleasure ti work with! Professional, thorough, courteous in explaining law, listened compassionately & thoroughly, and delivered timely results! I would definitely recommend!
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12 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie webster
Today I had the pleasure of speaking with a woman name, Angela, and it definitely turned my day right around. She helped me find the law office that I needed to speak to, listen to my story, and sympathized with me. It definitely was a great way to start the day having somebody as wonderful as Angela help me! Thank you again!
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04 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Borsheim represented my boyfriend in a drug case. I could tell right away that this guy knows his stuff! His office is very friendly, and Curtis was great at getting back to us when we called. He helped my boyfriend get a great deal and I am so happy that we hired him!
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21 Mar, 2023 by Kayeloni
Attorney Zintman did a fantastic job fighting for me and my best interests regarding a criminal case. Not only was she knowledgeable and articulate, her willingness to listen and displayed compassion for me as her client demonstrated her genuineness. She truly went above and beyond for me. I highly recommend Attorney Zintman! Thanks again Linnea!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Dillon bera
Nina Kelly is a boss! Nina is extremely knowledgeable, with terrific communication skills. If I had any questions, I would get a response right away. I highly recommend!!! Thank you!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Brian hanson
Jack has been wonderful in assisting me with my divorce to date. The initial visit was professional and pleasant and Jack provided a clear explanation of services and costs. Both Jack and his paralegal are extremely prompt with either email or phone replies to all of my questions. They have assisted in all form prep, instructions, review and submission. I am very pleased with our relationship to date and am very appreciative of the support. Jack is thorough in his explanation of forms and next steps.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Jason riddle
I just went through a divorce with a partner who cheated after 17 years together. It was quite volatile. My attorney at Sterling talked me off of so many anxiety spirals. She was calming, yet matter of fact. She was communicative and provided options to solve the endless problems that presented themselves. I ended up getting my fair share in the process, and that is due to Sterling.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Lori schultz
Attorney Shari Lynn is truly one of the best and both her and Kat are phenomenal! They are always there to answer your questions and go above and beyond! If you are ever thinking about hiring a firm, please please reach out to Vann and Chamberlain because they are truly truly amazing and will help you any way they can! Love ❤️ Shari Lynn & Kat forever and thanks so so much for taking our son's case!! He finally is getting what he deserves! Love ❤️ you both!!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Ravi b
Everyone at the firm was wonderful and so helpful with my bankruptcy. Every time I had questions about my case they were available to answer and help me understand. Shari was amazing and super supportive through the whole process!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michelle valentin
I filed for disability. I wasn’t educated at the time of filing that I would qualify and from the horror
stories of others having spent years filing and being denied, I decided to sign a contract with Shari Lynn. She seems nice enough, but what kind of person will take $3,600 of a disabled person’s backpay after having only answered a few questions for me that were answered in under an hour, and1 phone call to inform me I was approved? I called to see if she was willing to work out a compromise because obviously that amount is excessive for having done almost nothing, but was informed she doesn’t make the rules. Please wait until you are denied disability before signing a contract! These attorneys willingly take your money for having done literally NOTHING. YOU have to do all the paperwork yourself, which is extensive. Take copies of EVERYTHING you send and send it in a timely manner. That information cost me $3,600. Don’t let it happen to you.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
In my son case , I went tobtalk to him, he told me he was going to help and he didn't, the first he dis was asked to get paid all the money in 3 months, but NEVER dis nothing, every court he wasn't ready and past 2 years. We decided to let him go. Even he had to return 3,000, but he keep 12,000 for the courts he just showed up. Don't recommend him ever. God takes care everything in the world.
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30 Mar, 2023 by Alex
I would highly recommend Brabazon Law Office LLC. Shane has been very fast and effective , he has had my issues resolved without me having to step foot in court twice now. Would definitely recommend him for anyone seeking legal help!
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18 Mar, 2023 by Michael
Will represent issues that are not true, will abandon you. His settlements with the court, will not be honored by the judge.
Stay away
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08 Jul, 2024 by Stacey bolen
Attorney Dickey was the attorney on behalf of my son and myself in a very stressful and financial ruin for both of us. His professionalism, knowledge and compassion he had towards us the entire time we were working with him proved to us that there would be no other Attorney we would have wanted to help with this lawsuit. His hard work and dedication to not only our insurance company but to my son and myself showed volumes on not only who is as an Attorney but as a person as well! I would highly recommend Attorney Dickey and his Law Firm to anyone I know in the future. There are not enough stars to show our gratitude to him and his staff. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, keep being who you are because that's what makes you an outstanding person! Stacey and Taylor.
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08 Jul, 2024 by J c
30 Mar, 2024 by Aaron & terri “mr&mrs.superbatshitcrazy†nearman
01 Sep, 2024 by Samantha fregoso
I called Megan multiple times and she never got back to me
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05 Mar, 2023 by Dekow yakub
Good
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18 Nov, 2020 by Juan valero
07 Oct, 2024 by Lavender natural nail
19 Aug, 2020 by Monica lacoursiere
09 Dec, 2019 by Eric peterson
26 Dec, 2024 by Steven gucwa
Doesn't return calls, has done no work for 2 years. Terrible lawyer.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Christopher was sincere and treated me like a human being. He was at every court hearing and met with me whenever I needed. He got some of my charges dismissed and got me a plea deal with lower charges and without jail time. He looked into all the evidence I submitted and worked with the DA on them.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Frank
I was lucky to find PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST and they raised my credit from 580 to 801. Also, my parents have no established credit reporting. They went bankrupt like 15 years back. I started planning to help them rebuild their credit. Made them credit karma accounts, my dad’s was not reporting anything on TU but Equifax was showing 563, Experian 549 with one closed account, JCPenny from 1995. Thank you PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST for the help, he also helped my parents raise their credit score to over 240 points and he made sure he deleted all negative items on their credit profile. I now have 100k in credit limit and plenty of massive cards that I now use very carefully, don’t miss payment. My parents are now financially safe. Thank you PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST for your help! Here is his contact info:
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08 Jul, 2024 by Stacey bolen
Attorney Dickey was the attorney on behalf of my son and myself in a very stressful and financial ruin for both of us. His professionalism, knowledge and compassion he had towards us the entire time we were working with him proved to us that there would be no other Attorney we would have wanted to help with this lawsuit. His hard work and dedication to not only our insurance company but to my son and myself showed volumes on not only who is as an Attorney but as a person as well! I would highly recommend Attorney Dickey and his Law Firm to anyone I know in the future. There are not enough stars to show our gratitude to him and his staff. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, keep being who you are because that's what makes you an outstanding person! Stacey and Taylor.
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08 Jul, 2024 by J c
30 Mar, 2024 by Aaron & terri “mr&mrs.superbatshitcrazy†nearman
11 Nov, 2024 by Kathy eland
I had a meeting to revise one portion of my trust. Mr Barstow said it would take a week to have it done. After 2 weeks I called and left a message , no call back. In 3 weeks, no answer, 4 weeks, 5 weeks and so on. I quit calling after 6 months. He does not get back to you.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Daniel platt
Very helpful
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18 Sep, 2024 by Dirk
Hired Tara for my first divorce of 38 years. A year later she worked a deal with the other attorney to get me $600 maintenance for 6 months. I said no way! She got angry and quit. With just 3 weeks til the trial I had to scramble to find a lawyer to represent me. I was awarded under his legal help $1200 a month for the rest of his life. She didnt give a crap how it was settled, from woman to woman she didn't look out for me. I still had to pay her full amount plus my other lawyers bill. She was a waste of time and money. I would really be in hardship if I had accepted the $600. Ladies, I cannot impress on you enough. Do not hire this woman.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Gediminas pipiras
I hired Brabazon law office help me with speeding ticket, paid money for attorney. Now my attorney Merri Burnthorn not contacting with me, no call me back, no answering to my emails. She helped nothing to me. I would like to take another attorney but can not because Brabazon Law Office ignoring me and not contacting. My drivers license will be suspended in Wisconsin State if ticket fee not paid
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07 Oct, 2024 by Bob heim
Attorney Shane Brabazon abilities in court are amazing. He was able to have the plaintiff admit to the legitimacy of my issues and the case was dropped. Great questioning skills!!!
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31 Aug, 2024 by Scott hendry hendryscooter@aol.com
Fantastic service through entire court proceedings, and well after that with related follow ups. Excellent!!!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Tasha sell
Alex helped me throughout the duration of my divorce, was very thorough, friendly and knowledgeable!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Mary d
11 Nov, 2021 by Tama begley
Mr. Kurt Weiting, I highly recommend. Professional and a great source of protection.
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04 May, 2024 by Shane
Rude, self centered, arrogant, will take your money and not do his job. He will make you promises he can not keep, he is only interested in pleasing the court
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26 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Long story short if you not WHITE and rich or family have money and contacts he won’t FIGHT for you…you better off throwing ur money in the toilet and flushing it
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19 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
No contact. Poor quality of service for expense I’m paying. Getting no where in court with my custody case
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21 Jun, 2024 by Tasha sell
Alex helped me throughout the duration of my divorce, was very thorough, friendly and knowledgeable!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Mary d
11 Nov, 2021 by Tama begley
Mr. Kurt Weiting, I highly recommend. Professional and a great source of protection.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Tasha sell
Alex helped me throughout the duration of my divorce, was very thorough, friendly and knowledgeable!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Mary d
11 Nov, 2021 by Tama begley
Mr. Kurt Weiting, I highly recommend. Professional and a great source of protection.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
https://lawyerhistory.wicourts.gov/attorneys/1001838
Research lawyers carefully. They can make you a financial "hostage" once you pay a retainer and not work for you, refuse to refund retainer etc. A short term divorce with no children could cost three years of legal fees with no progress if you are not smart about it. Proceed with caution. See link above.
Research lawyers carefully. They can make you a financial "hostage" once you pay a retainer and not work for you, refuse to refund retainer etc. A short term divorce with no children could cost three years of legal fees with no progress if you are not smart about it. Proceed with caution. See link above.
Research lawyers carefully. They can make you a financial "hostage" once you pay a retainer and not work for you, refuse to refund retainer etc. A short term divorce with no children could cost three years of legal fees with no progress if you are not smart about it. Proceed with caution. See link above.
Read more
06 Nov, 2020 by Edmund
i hired Alf for assistance in my divorce and custody/placement battle. while the cost was high, you cant put a price on 50/50 custody and placement of children. especially as a father. he negotiated a fair property and debt split, helped me bring up and end shady behavior by my ex, and was, and still is, very understanding with payments. especially with the current covid crisis.
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28 Mar, 2018 by Amy
I hired Alf Langan for a family court case back in 2012. I wrote an honest poor review of my experience. Now he's disputing my review as if he never represented me. Here is my honest review below, as the original was removed due to his dishonest dispute.
If you have this many Poor reviews and have also been disciplined as a lawyer, maybe you should take a look at your performance rather than get honest review removed.
I hired this attorney for a very simple family court matter. I made a huge mistake. He does not respond very well to emails, if at all. He sent about 10 emails about a certain topic for NO reason as they were not getting us anywhere. Then I am charged for them. He charged me for part of my initial conversation with him, never telling me this until I see the bill. I waited 2 weeks for a call back and made 3 calls total before getting one back. He sent me a time sensitive email and implied that I needed to answer him and he would pass the answer to the parties involved and then he never did tell them. I left him a voicemail the same day regarding difficulties with the party because of his inaction and requested a call back asap because of this and it is now 2 full business days later and still no word. Today I hired a new attorney who has a much better rating than this man. In my opinion, do NOT waste your money. I have gone through almost $1,500 and all he did was go to one court date and send countless useless emails. Then I had to call him to let him know that these emails were useless and he wasn't listening to me. Although he seems like a nice man, as an attorney; get someone else.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Dennis farmer
24 Jul, 2024 by Good citizen
You would presume that Rachel Maes, who was born a male but lives as a woman, could appreciate blatant racism and discrimination. You might presume that Rachel Maes would prosecute everyone fairly regardless of gender, race, etc. However, Rachel Maes deliberately discriminates against black people. However, if you're white and grow marijuana plants in your home, maliciously and falsely accuses black people of breaking into your garage, and/or uses racial slurs against black people, it will go unnoticed by Rachel Maes. It blows my mind that Rachel Maes discriminates against the black community. Oh wait, no, it doesn't. #Facts
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29 May, 2024 by Natalie skrumbellos
Losing faith in our judicial system.
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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.
