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19 Sep, 2024 by Gabrielle brown
Mr Day took my case a few years ago. This attorney is very organized and professional. He has strong negotiating skills as well. I was able to leave my marriage in a good position. He also set the tone for the co parenting arrangements. I remember him being honest with me about my situation and giving good advice on what I needed to do to regain my autonomy and dignity in the divorce. Thank you
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21 Jun, 2024 by Prophetess rain mackey
This has been a very traumatic time of my life. I haven’t slept all night since February. I met the most amazing Attorney at this firm. Attorney Joseph McKenzie. First let me start by saying he’s GREAT LISTENER! He allowed me to explain everything without interruption. He corrected me on things I totally didn’t understand were wrong. He made me feel heard and understood. I was very impressed with his knowledge and professionalism. He has a beautiful office and the staff were very welcoming. I left there feeling safe and that God let me meet the right person. I slept all night for the first time in a few months. If you need an Attorney who will listen to you and care about your situation call Attorney Joseph and you will not be disappointed.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Kenneth jones
Power to the people
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19 Sep, 2024 by Gabrielle brown
Mr Day took my case a few years ago. This attorney is very organized and professional. He has strong negotiating skills as well. I was able to leave my marriage in a good position. He also set the tone for the co parenting arrangements. I remember him being honest with me about my situation and giving good advice on what I needed to do to regain my autonomy and dignity in the divorce. Thank you
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21 Jun, 2024 by Prophetess rain mackey
This has been a very traumatic time of my life. I haven’t slept all night since February. I met the most amazing Attorney at this firm. Attorney Joseph McKenzie. First let me start by saying he’s GREAT LISTENER! He allowed me to explain everything without interruption. He corrected me on things I totally didn’t understand were wrong. He made me feel heard and understood. I was very impressed with his knowledge and professionalism. He has a beautiful office and the staff were very welcoming. I left there feeling safe and that God let me meet the right person. I slept all night for the first time in a few months. If you need an Attorney who will listen to you and care about your situation call Attorney Joseph and you will not be disappointed.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Kenneth jones
Power to the people
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31 Aug, 2023 by Ahmad murtaza baddr (‫احمد مرتضی بدر‬‎)
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17 May, 2023 by Miguel
Mala opción si no hablas ingles perfectamente o si eres latino. Estuve 2 años esperando ayuda y después de muchos intentos fallidos, me di por vencido. Bad option if you do not speak English perfectly or if you are Latino. I spent 2 years waiting for help and after many failed attempts, I gave up.
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30 Dec, 2020 by Malex akoh
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sean givens
Good lawyer
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08 Jul, 2024 by Alfreda quinones
No call back and I called twice
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08 Jul, 2024 by Athina alexander
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06 May, 2024 by Raouf abdullah
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23 Apr, 2024 by Saud jabali-nash
I recently had the pleasure of working with Anu KMT with the KMT Hunt Law Group. Mr. Anu was always professional, honest and highly knowledgeable with his advise and counsel when dealing with my legal matter. His prices were also competitive and he was honorable when billing for his time based on my review of the invoice when comparing them to other firms that I have used in the past. I would highly recommend using the legal services of the KMT Hunt Law Group and using Ms. Anu KMT as your legal representative.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Ralph smith
Attorney Kemet provided us excellent advice in a timely manner and represented us well. I commend using this firm!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sula la jefa
For starters, you cannot reach them in person, they never pick up the phone and rarely respond to emails in a timely fashion. This HOA law firm is highly unprofessional and unethical. To set up a simple payment plan, they're asking for deeply personal information without justification. The person requesting this information hasn't even confirmed they are a U.S. citizen and appears to be of East Indian descent. I keep questioning why they're demanding such sensitive personal and financial information (PHI/PII) when I don't even know who I'm dealing with. The level of detail they're asking for isn't even required for government security clearance, yet I'm expected to provide it for a basic HOA payment agreement. This is incredibly risky for my personal security because of the kind of investigative work I do myself for the US Gov. It's concerning because this individual already has access to my deed, public records, and address, but is still opting to ask me for my personal bank account details, social security number, sensitive Job information and more. This seems highly unethical and raises serious concerns about the potential misuse of my personal information. An for those that are not aware, yes America allows foreign nationals to work on paralegal and legal cases remotely as lawyers so just because someone is in the legal dept. asking you for all this information does not mean they are US Citizens and safe to trust providing your PHI/PII info, this could easily become a potential violation of privacy laws, depending on the specific circumstances and the jurisdiction you are in the US.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Craig craig
This law firm is predatory and operates in bad faith. In September of last year my mother passed away. She missed several HOA payments at the end of that year because she was sick in the hospital and unable to make them. The following year, her case was referred to Cameron Mericle for collection. I completely understand that and have no problem with it. As soon as I learned of these missed payments, I reached out to Cameron Mericle to arrange payment ASAP and get this cleared up. I took this very seriously and made a very reasonable effort to pay what was owed in a timely manner. I requested the late fees be waived as these were exigent circumstances. I spoke with a woman named Katelyn Howard who assured me that because I had called in to clear it up, there would be no further charges or action on the account as she worked with the HOA to get the late fees waived. She was very professional and understanding during this phone call. To be clear, it would be perfectly fine if they could not be waived. It was simply a request. I was always eager to pay what was owed and get this resolved ASAP. Kate never reached out to me to follow up and over a month passed. I reached back out to find out what was going on and when I finally got a hold of them, they informed me that I now owed almost $1500 dollars extra in legal filing fees and accrued interest because the balance had not been paid. I did not pay the balance because I was specifically told not to as I waited for them to communicate with the HOA to get the late fees waived. Not only did they not do that, but they refused to communicate and charged me almost 4x the amount of what was actually owed because of the time that had passed while I waited for them to respond to me. I was specifically told to wait even though I wanted to pay off the balance. This is incredibly predatory behavior. I would have gladly paid on time but was specifically told not to so they could try to scam me out of more money than was actually owed. Do not trust anything this company says. Get your own lawyer and resolve the issue with your HOA. I have documentation of all of this and will be reporting it to the appropriate authorities. I can't believe the depravity of the people working here. They are the scum of the Earth. They took advantage of the death of my mother to try to scam me. That's completely unacceptable behavior. The positive reviews of this company come from staff members who declare that most of the negative reviews are simply irate people who are delinquent on what they owe and are venting. Perhaps that is true in some cases. However, this is not the case with me. Since I first contacted Cameron Mericle I was respectful, and very committed to paying the outstanding balance on the account in a timely manner. I made very reasonable efforts to resolve this as fast as I could in compliance with their directions. In response, they lied to me and tried to take advantage of me while I was grieving. I really hope the people working here are able to search their soul and come to terms with their place in the world. Beware
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15 Jul, 2024 by Ana mercedez
These people are so unprofessional and intentionally rude. They fancy themselves as a Law Office but truthfully they are nothing more than a predatory collection agency
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01 Sep, 2024 by Abena scott
1 star Lone star office 1 star
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04 Oct, 2023 by Samuel wiesnet
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27 Apr, 2016 by Sakeenah turner-cooper
This office is very unprofessional, unorganized and inconsiderate. It seems as if no one knows their job title. If you have to report to all these other people what is your actual job. They really need re evaluate the people they put in these offices.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Abena scott
1 star Lone star office 1 star
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04 Oct, 2023 by Samuel wiesnet
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27 Apr, 2016 by Sakeenah turner-cooper
This office is very unprofessional, unorganized and inconsiderate. It seems as if no one knows their job title. If you have to report to all these other people what is your actual job. They really need re evaluate the people they put in these offices.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Abena scott
1 star Lone star office 1 star
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04 Oct, 2023 by Samuel wiesnet
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27 Apr, 2016 by Sakeenah turner-cooper
This office is very unprofessional, unorganized and inconsiderate. It seems as if no one knows their job title. If you have to report to all these other people what is your actual job. They really need re evaluate the people they put in these offices.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If I can give 0 stars he would get that! I feel the last review he lies to client and family acts very petty and does not follow up nor did he communicate to federal prosecutor and have not provided discovery in its entirely to client, only been to visit 3 times within a year! He wants the easy way an easy money he don't work hard or in the best interest of the client or family! Overall he makes his clients feel as if he not on they side but on the prosecutor side. He still have yet to work on my case as he should he don't give an effort and our future an life in his hands and he refuses to talk directly to my significant other. He doesn't answer questions
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04 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Michael Lawlor was absolutely my hero in my case. It was a three year case due to Covid and such and he was there every step of the way with me. He worked so hard and is an amazing lawyer. I can not praise this man enough. He was thorough and honest, caring and compassionate. He never let me done at all. Nick and Adam were also amazing when Michael wasn’t available they answered and helped me as well. I recommend this form 1000 times over. They are the best.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I regret hiring Michael Lawlor because he changed his tone completely after I made the retainer payment. Prior to doing so, he made assurances that were never followed after I paid him. For example, he had promised me that he would talk to lawyers that were involved in a duplicate case as mine, but he never did. Also, prior to the retainer payment, he assured me we would win this case if I had to take this to trial. However, as soon as I made the retainer payment (which was around the time that he met with the federal prosecutor), he kept saying "we're gonna lose if we take this to trial" before he explained to me all that I would be giving up if I choose to plead, to a felony no less. I honestly regret hiring him and wish I had gone with a free federal defender. The rumor that they are overworked and overstressed is simply not true when it comes to federal cases and they are usually top of the line from Harvard/Yale.
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12 Aug, 2013 by Nicole
Joseph Trevino is a useless legal aid. He handle a minor possession charge for me. We agreed he would arrange for me to attend a diversion program and upon completion my record would be expunged. When my day in court came he was tardy, when they called my case I had to flag him down to get his attention to come in to the court room and litigate on my behalf. My friend and I faced the same charges we were together when the initial incident occurred. Why she was able to receive the same consequence I received with no legal was interesting. This put me under the impression that my consequence was standard and that with or without Joseph Useless Trevino I would have had the same option. Once I completed the program, I contacted Mr.Trevino to assist with the process of expunging my record. This man felt as though he should be paid in addition to the initial payment. I was under the impression that he would automatically file the paperwork because that was the actual work that was required. We exchanged some words, Trevino became very loud and unruly. He began to insinuate how he did me a favor because he was contracted through a legal aid service . Joseph expressed that he didn't need my measly $500, so I of course asked for a refund. Trevino rudely agreed, abruptly hung up the phone and then a week later sent me the paper work to file my own process to expunge. Apparently this simple routine procedure was to much for Joseph to take on or once he got paid he was not obligated to follow through. I am not to sure what his reasoning was but from my experience Mr.Trevino is not a man on his word, he has minimal ethics and is extremely temperamental. I would not recommend Joseph Trevino to anyone seeking legal counsel. You will probably either end up BROKE or in JAIL!
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24 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
My retainer with Trevino is dated June 10, 1995, Case No. 95-14865, for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The retainer agreement stated that Trevino would "prepare a bankruptcy plan, provide financial advice, and deal directly with the creditors." Preparing a bankruptcy plan was a matter of accepting without question the 1st trust's terms. Providing financial advice was a matter of allowing me, his client, to waste $21,000 in the bankruptcy plan from the fall of 1995 to the fall of 1996 then to abandon me, his client, to the 1st trust's demands. Dealing directly with the creditors was a matter of going to secret meetings to which I, his client, was not invited and of which I, his client, was not informed and making secret deals the terms of which I, his client, was also not informed. I had to discover those terms on my own from the court. The 1st trust represented the escrow deficit in the bankruptcy plan as $2455 but demanded $361.67 per month in the plan. The $361.67 is $4340/year. The property taxes prior to 1995 had been $1700-$1800 per year. The homeowner's tax credit reduced the taxes in 1995 to $603 and in 1996 to $887. The insurance was $305. That was $75/mo and $100/mo. required for the escrow account, much less than the $361.67 demanded. Trevino repeatedly gave the mortgage lender over my protests the $361.67 demanded. The mortgage lender had collected for the escrow account $23/mo. thru all of 1992 and $68/mo. in 1993. The real deficit was more like $4500 not $2455. Trevino failed to discover and explain to me, his client, that the mortgage lender had completely mismanaged the escrow account over the previous five years and created the enormous deficit. The house was lost to auction in December 1996. By the time I , the client, discovered what had really happened it was too late to take any legal action. It was not a small matter. The cost in the end was more than $300,000. This is all well documented for anyone who want to see the record.
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02 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I had a drug case in end of 2011 going into 2012 and wasn't pleased with Mr. Timothy Sullivan work what so ever. I felt as tho that he didn't defend me as he should, provide me with information that he should and prepare me as he should. I was very displeased with his work.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

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

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction.
  4. How many cases have you taken to trial?
    While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial.
  5. Who will handle my case?
    Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work.
  6. How do you communicate with your clients?
    Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
  • Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
  • Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

  • Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
  • Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
  • List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
  • Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

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