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10 Jan, 2025 by Phyllis ann w. darnell
Wonderful, Great Law firm. Especially for your real Estate needs. Very intelligent, very thorough, very friendly. Great customer service all the way around. I have been very pleased with them.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Pearson johnson
Good detail work, not rushed. Nice people!
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05 Sep, 2024 by David johnson
22 Dec, 2024 by Lily turner
Very helpful and professional. She spent extra time with me to make sure we covered everything in a complicated case. I’ve dealt with a variety of legal situations in my life and I would highly recommend.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jimmy moser
18 Dec, 2024 by Shanna hopkins
19 Nov, 2024 by Jacob abels
Perry DeLoach is an excellent attorney. He helped me get to the best possible outcome with my situation and gave me great advice every step of the way. I highly recommend.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Olivia s
I had an outstanding experience with Mr. Perry DeLoach. From our very first meeting, he made me feel at ease about my situation. His promptness and communication skills were excellent. He handled my case with the utmost professionalism and efficiency. I highly recommend Perry DeLoach to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Twana cruell
Attorney Perry was very professional while handling my case. He kept me updated throughout the process and made sure I was aware of everything from start to finish. If you are looking for an attorney to handle a case for you call Perry.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Connie terry
Could not thank Tiffany and Alex enough for the great job that they did handling my daughter’s car accident case. Their professionalism was very evident. They made this difficult time much easier to deal with. Would highly recommend the law firm for any of your legal needs.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Riley blassingame
Tiffany Mckinney did an amazing job helping me and my family through this long process. I definitely recommend her for anyone out there that needs an attorney for a wreck. She was very patient and super helpful through it all. We appreciate you!!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Grace blassingame
Tiffany was extremely helpful to my sister and I when we got into a bad car accident. She made sure we got every penny we deserved and was very professional!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Seth freeman
10/10 Attorney. Never was disappointed at any part of the criminal defense process. A&B By Mob Charge Dismissed.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Juanita munoz
Stuart Sarratt helped me when I was at the lowest point in my life. I was fighting 3 felony charges that I was not guilty of, I was completely broken. I felt lost and didn’t know who to turn on to but then Stuart came into my life, my case, and fought for me. He was compassionate, he listened, he’s raw and uncut. He’s seriously one of Greenville’s best. I would recommend this gentleman to anyone who is looking for a really good defense attorney THAT ACTUALLY CARES ABOUT HIS CLIENTS AND WHAT HAPPENS TO THEM ONCE THE DOORS TO THE COURT ROOM SHUT. Hire Stuart. He is simply innate to this work.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
My ex used her in our divorce. She and her firm ran up his fees (expecting ME to pay them), to recover a lesser amount from my retirement plan in a QDRO. Never made a good effort toward settling the case (which was relatively small). Went all the way to a final hearing. Remember, when you lose based on crappy advice, you still have to pay THEIR bill. I almost felt sorry for him.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Lauren chastain
24 Aug, 2023 by Vanessa ragland
He is a wonderful criminal lawyer but when my son went to him to ask for help with a family court case he basically made him feel like the case was hopeless instead of just saying he didn't want to take the case. It had a lasting effect on my sons confidence concerning the custody case even though we found a wonderful lawyer who was able to do all the things Andrew Mackenzie said couldn't be done. I wouldn't recommend him si.ply be ause he may not be honest on what can and can't be done.
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16 May, 2021 by Cory starcher
Lynn and staff is wonderful! Highly recommend them if you want someone in your corner fighting for you.
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26 May, 2016 by Alvin
Mr. Randall represented me in a personal injury case he was very professional.I always felt that he showed as much interest in my health and physical well being as much as financial. very prompt, always will return calls. Very please with the hard work he put into my case.
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18 May, 2016 by Andrew tidwell sr
Brian Randall represented me in both Worker's Compensation case and Social Security disability.
He was very good at keeping in contact with Me and keeping Me informed on the status of my case.
I would use Brian on any case I may have. I know it would get done right.
Thank You for all your help Brian Randall
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17 May, 2016 by Cyndie
Mr. Randall is a super nice man and very Professional. He worked very hard with my mom and I in 2005 when I was injured on the job. Then in 2010 when I was diagnosed with brain tumors, he worked hard on getting my approval for disability. I would recommend him to anyone!
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30 Jan, 2018 by Anna
Margaret handled my divorce with grace, compassion and ease! She and her staff really made a hard time much easier on me. She always placed my best interest and the best interest of my child first. Margaret is diligent and did an excellent job handling all of the details of my divorce. She is very knowledgeable and always sets expectations so I never felt like I was getting caught off guard. She went above and beyond even after the divorce was final. I highly recommend Margaret and will always consider her my go to lawyer.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Abigail
I have been a client of Chamberlain Law Firm for over seven years! I first came to Margaret in the middle of a custody battle. Prior to meeting with her I tried to handle things on my own and landed myself in a very precarious position. I did not wish to fight with my ex, but simply do what was going to be best for the two young children. My ex had other plans. In hindsight I wish I would have met with her sooner. If you are considering whether you should or shouldn't get an attorney… You need to just come speak with Margaret. She is a wealth of knowledge! I won't bore you with the sob story that was my life. All I can say is Margaret took ALL my mess...and it WAS a mess! She explained very thoroughly what my expectation should be, what I should do, what I should be prepared for.
From the first time that I walked into Margaret Chamberlain's office and met Deanne and Kathy I felt cared for. I felt like they understood my goal was to protect my children and not to hurt someone else. Over the years I have grown very fond of those women not just on a personal level, but I have the upmost respect for their level of professionalism and and competence. I have never called with a question that couldn't be answered, and if they didn't have an answer Deanne was sure to get back to me promptly. I have asked this law firm for help on many different occasions raging from divorce decrees, child custody and visitation, contempt hearing's, and modification of orders. I have referred close friends to her as well and they have been ecstatic with their results! In the end we all want what's best for our children, or maybe we don't have children and someone is trying to take advantage of us. It's important to have someone like Margaret protecting you.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
2016 was a very tough year for my family. My step daughters mother made some significant changes in her life that would have taken an A student out of an excellent school, 400 miles away from everything she knew and loved. Including friends and family, moving her the unknown with a new stepfather that was not out for her well being. We were terrified for what her future was to hold. We were scare, angry, very upset... anxious. Margaret and her staff felt like family, they understood how and why we felt what we felt. And we felt their concerns for our daughter as well. They understood this was our world right now and we just needed the safety of this child to be put first and foremost.
Deanne and Kathy were always sure to understand any concern when we contacted the office whether via email or phone so as to relay to Ms. Chamberlain in the best to their ability for her to get back to us with an answer promptly.
My step daughter had a change in custody to her father - temporary custody end of summer 2016. Father got sole custody mid summer 2017. Both very unusual results.
Thank you all so much!!! We are so grateful.
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06 Jul, 2021 by Paul
Miss Baldwin helped to save my life. I was unjustly jail for over 3 yrs. And she showed through truth and evidence I was innocent. Erica is 5 star
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16 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I was charged with a very serious crime, and I knew I hadn’t done it. No one else would listen to me or help me but Erika! She ultimately got the charges dismissed, and assured that the State wouldn’t do anything further.
She’s smart, kind, and most importantly she listens. When I couldn’t pay everything at once, she gave me a payment plan I could afford. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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16 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Baldwin is an excellent attorney with a heart for every client and a desire to execute the law with complete dedication and desire to provide informed representation in all cases. She professionally represented our son and was completely responsive and trustworthy with him after he required legal assistance more than once. We were ALWAYS pleased with the cost and representation. We walked this journey with our son as a family but HE was the client and the recipient of all correspondence. ( consultations, emails or other correspondence). She is respected within the court system and we have NO HESITATION in referring her services to a client in need.
I am very suspicious of a negative review. I am offended by a set of statements made by a sister from NY when Ms. Baldwin practices in SC. I am equally suspicious of proof less statements of monetary compensation issues when she is not the client and is legally prohibited from the actual hiring of an attorney by a third party. I would immediately disregard this set of review statements. I would give Ms. Baldwin 10 stars if it were permitted and I will be a reference at any time.
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24 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
By far the best law firm and lawyer. He got my case reduced to reckless driving and i couldn't be more thankful.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Gina dowd
Great service. We had to pick up a settlement check. The instructions on what to bring and how to find the firm were very well explained and easy to follow. Very nice experience
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09 Feb, 2023 by Gene reyna
Writing this strictly as the spouse of an employee, speaking directly as to the type of firm they are. I spent a career dedicated to Human Resources and I can say, unequivocally, that this is a company that values and treats their employees in a world-class manner! When companies "talk" about striving to be an employer of choice, WJCB Law "walks the walk".
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06 Feb, 2021 by Robert childs
Fantastic Attorneys
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06 Nov, 2023 by Lynn lynn
Chris likes to WIN and so do I 🙌
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27 Jul, 2022 by Katherine loudermilk
21 Jan, 2020 by Cynthia james miller
An awesome set of very kind and very caring and work for you aesome and work hard to help.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Charlene michelle t white
30 Jan, 2025 by Christy cook (mama)
Robert Treacy spent a lot of time on my case. He was very understanding of my injuries. He also worked very hard at getting a very good settlement for me. I could not be happier!
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29 Jan, 2025 by Joann lavery
I could not be happier with how my case is being handled & the staff is/was wonderful! Very welcoming !
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19 Nov, 2024 by Jacob abels
Perry DeLoach is an excellent attorney. He helped me get to the best possible outcome with my situation and gave me great advice every step of the way. I highly recommend.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Olivia s
I had an outstanding experience with Mr. Perry DeLoach. From our very first meeting, he made me feel at ease about my situation. His promptness and communication skills were excellent. He handled my case with the utmost professionalism and efficiency. I highly recommend Perry DeLoach to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Twana cruell
Attorney Perry was very professional while handling my case. He kept me updated throughout the process and made sure I was aware of everything from start to finish. If you are looking for an attorney to handle a case for you call Perry.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Edward dixson
Very fair person, he handled my Estate & got it all settled.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Robin holt
Took my case for a week then called me said he could no longer work my case. WITH NO EXPLANATION AND NO REFUND OF MY MONEY!!!! Leaving me no longer able to contest probate.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Denise tucker
28 Nov, 2024 by Wanda powell
i am not sure what you all are saying how speedy she is let me enlighten you all my brother has been in jail 8 years and she has yet to call me back or get any information that i have.. i wrote a review a few years ago and she told my brother to tell me to take it down.....which i did but this one i wont take down
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23 May, 2024 by Jan scott
16 May, 2024 by Dolores watkins
I am writing to highly recommend Attorney Steven John Henry as one of the best attorneys in South Carolina. I have had the privilege of working with Mr. Henry on several legal matters, and I have been consistently impressed with his professionalism, legal expertise, and dedication to his clients.
Mr. Henry possesses a deep understanding of the law and is able to effectively navigate complex legal issues. He is meticulous in his preparation, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. His courtroom presence is confident and persuasive, making him a formidable advocate for his clients.
What sets Mr. Henry apart is his genuine care for his clients and their well-being. He takes the time to listen to their concerns, explain legal concepts in a clear and understandable manner, and provide realistic expectations. His approachable and compassionate nature puts clients at ease during stressful legal situations. He is a man of integrity!
I call him, my friend!
I have experienced firsthand Mr. Henry's commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for his client/me. He is a strategic thinker and is always prepared to go the extra mile to ensure that his clients' interests are protected. His dedication to his profession and his clients is truly commendable.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Steven John Henry for any legal matter. His exceptional legal skills, professionalism, and genuine care for his clients make him an invaluable asset. I am confident that anyone who works with Mr. Henry will be extremely satisfied with his services.
Sincerely,
Dolores Lewis
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jason striplin
Grove-Ozment was Johnny-on-the-spot the moment I called with the details of my situation. Mr. Grove and Penny explained the strategy to handle my case very clearly and kept me informed throughout the process. They managed my expectations with regard to outcome all the way through, and of course had my case dismissed in due order. I couldn't be more impressed. Here's hoping you never have the need, but if you need criminal defense, don't hesitate to call.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Brittany stoltzfus
Matt and Penny are phenomenal. From the initial conversation, Penny was kind and compassionate. Matt was an expert and handled my case well. Thank you Matt and Penny for all of your help!
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20 Oct, 2024 by Kate margalit
Matt Ozment is a kind, compassionate and patient lawyer with your best interest at heart. I highly recommend him if you are in need of an employment lawyer.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Rodrigo vilches
AWFUL experience with this attorney, (Lee Daniels) I have LegalEase thru my company and this attorney seat for over two month for a letter that he was supposed to write, I check the reviews (too late obviously) and realized that this is the way he works....so waste time on my legal matters. Lesson learn for me.
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29 Dec, 2024 by William reynolds
By far the worst experience I have ever had. Over the course of 4 months I maybe spoke to this attorney 3 times and it was after contacting the agency first. Biggest waste of time in my life, would never recommend to anyone. Ever.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Adrianne pinkney
I regret I didn't review these reviews before accepting this attorney. My job offers LegalEase, and I submitted a request for an attorney to handle a real estate matter with my HOA. Lee Daniels was the first to respond to the request, so I accepted him as my attorney. I didn't read these reviews first (my bad). Lee started strong and was responsive to emails and calls. He wrote a letter to my HOA. Shortly thereafter, my HOA responded, and Lee was nowhere to be found. It's like when the fire turned up he disappeared. He was unresponsive to calls, texts, and emails. My attorney ghosted me. TERRIBLE. I have contacted LegalEase and recommended that he be removed from the portal of attorneys because I believe he is charging the company for work he doesn't do. If you are considering Lee Daniels for your legal representation, don't. Run. Run away. And don't look back.
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19 Sep, 2024 by James
Gratefully I was given Alex's name by another attorney who felt he would be a good fit for my case. His work was excellent from start to finish. He helped me navigate the family court system. I would highly recommend his law firm.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Thomas hastings
Alex and Gabrielle are both consummate professionals. All I needed was a simple, uncontested divorce. Alex called me promptly after my initial message and we had a pleasant conversation that didn’t feel rushed. Once it was time to move forward, it was as simple and smooth a process as it could be from start to finish.
It’s unfortunate that I needed their services, but I definitely chose the right team to handle it for me. You should definitely consider Alex and Gabrielle if the services they provide fall within a need you have.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jonathan patterson
Excellent service with everything happening exactly how I was told it would from Alex & Garbrielle! I started with a mutual agreement that needed to be finalized with court approval and did not know where to turn. I took a total chance from googling the local area and honestly after the fact I feel so lucky to have used them! Great transparency, knowledge, etc... you can not go wrong with him!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Sean mclarnon
Only came for our house closing, but he was gregarious and welcoming. Nice fellow.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Todd holmes
22 Apr, 2024 by Daniel cibulskis
25 Sep, 2024 by Sean mclarnon
Only came for our house closing, but he was gregarious and welcoming. Nice fellow.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Todd holmes
22 Apr, 2024 by Daniel cibulskis
27 Sep, 2024 by Jon tarnowski
Made a phone call to this attorneys office using a MetLife plan. When I say that Nadia took the time to help me with my questions and current situation would be an understatement. She provided me excellent service and went far and above and beyond what other law offices I had contacted with the same question. She listened to the history and cared about the conversation and our problem. She reached out and even was able to spend time speaking with the attorney about my situation and he took the time from after his court appearance to answer.
Should I need legal service in my area, there is no doubt or hesitation that I will be using the services provided by this firm. I would recommend anyone that would ask to do the same.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Marnie b
So grateful I chose this firm to help me with my case. Alex was able to get me better results than I thought were possible. Nadia was also a huge help in explaining the process to me and keeping me informed. Both of them went the extra mile and I would recommend them to anyone looking for legal help.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Cristen c
What a fantastic experience being represented by Kinlaw & Cunningham! Their communication was prompt, frequent, and thorough from the very first phone call and throughout the entire process. Nadia went above and beyond, providing valuable guidance and even working after hours. I received the most successful outcome for my case.
I cannot thank them enough for all of their help and expertise, and I strongly recommend them.
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03 Dec, 2015 by Joe
The team at the Fayssoux Firm basically saved my life. After a painful wreck that was not my fault, I couldn't work and my medical bills were piling up. The insurance companies kept delaying my payment until I contacted Wally at the Fayssoux Firm. They took care of everything. Finally I had someone that would listen to me and not pass me off to someone else. They got my claim paid and it was even more than I originally thought I was going to get.
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02 Dec, 2015 by Bill
I am a consultant and expert witness and have worked with Mr. Fayssoux in respect to numerous cases with many of them resulting in a trial. In my capacity I have the opportunity to work with many other lawyers and without exception Mr. Fayssoux is the best attorney I have had the pleasure to work with and by far the most gifted trial attorney I have seen in court.
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25 Nov, 2015 by Jeff
I employed Wally based on a recommendation from a Law Enforcement Officer a telling example of the respect he has earned in his community. Honest, ethical, and personable, Mr. Fayssoux provided superb service. I was very impressed by his professionalism, attention to detail, knowledge of the law, and, most importantly, his sincere interest in serving our case.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Brice huet
I can't begin to say enough good things about Scarlet. I, unfortunately, have had to use many family court attorney's in Greenville, SC. For each new issue I've gone with a new attorney. My latest issue was a very challenging and complex issue that i felt in my heart i was right about and i was told by many attorney's i would lose. Scarlet was recommended to me by a local, excellent attorney who was not qualified to handle my issue. Scarlet had never taken on my issue before and was not familiar with it. But before rejecting me, she did her homework and felt i had a shot. Once she took me on as a client she dove right in. She didn't milk the clock to overcharge me like some attorney's might. In fact, i believe she worked way more on my issue than she charged me for. She studied this new issue, went over every detail. And wrote an incredible argument to the appeals court. I'm not an attorney, but I've read a lot of these arguments, unfortunately, and i was blown away at her attention to detail. The law. The facts. She knocked it out of the park. She doesn't just practice law, she tries to perfect it. She gave it her all. And she WON!! against all odds. Against attorneys i paid $500 for a 1 hour interview for an opinion on the case. She did it. I never write these google reviews but nobody is more deserve of a positive one than she is. I couldn't be more impressed and proud to have been represented by her. You will not be disappointment should you need her. If she can't win, it's not winnable.
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26 Jul, 2023 by Hannah white
Scarlet was amazing to work with. She was very accessible and supportive. Her calming demeanor and legal expertise always put me at ease throughout a difficult divorce.
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09 Jul, 2023 by Marilyn hill
Attorney Moore won my Court of Appeals case which ordered the judge to reversed his previous ruling. Thank you for giving me such a great win!!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Beto taguchi
26 Mar, 2024 by Mary turner
Took money and never did anything. Even sent letter where he lied about what he was suppose to do and solicitor said he did nothing but lie and take money.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Stacey jones
I was referred to James Brehm from Lori Murray in Columbia. He was blunt and honest from the start he never sugar coated anything he didn't judge anyone and he got to work immediately. He helped my daughter and it was a big mix up but she could have had do do over everything. He got her out with a much better deal then her previous atty would even offer to try and do. I just returned again his prices are reasonable and he is fierce!!! I recommend 10000%!!!
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30 Jul, 2022 by Karen allen
23 Aug, 2019 by Weldon holtzclaw
I felt money was the PRIMARY goal
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14 Jul, 2018 by Wardell sims
Mr. Lineberry is the best!
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06 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Please think long and hard before having this man as an attorney he will sail you down the river without a care in the world . Not only will he ignore what you saying but being your attorney he will make his own judgement and act accordingly to that if you can’t afford an attorney and they assign him your best bet is to wait until you can afford to get an attorney or represent yourself. He will never reach out to you unless he’s trying to get you to plea to get you off his stack load of cases on his desk. I pray for anyone who has this man as their attorney.No fight in him at all!!! He will buckle under pressure!!! No Aggressiveness at!!!! Tell you one thing in person and do the opposite in the courtroom
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16 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Chris really helped me with my legal issue when I needed a lawyer. He was always willing to talk to me and take my phone calls, and worked very hard on my behalf. Thanks to his hard work, my case had a really great resolution. I would recommend him to anyone that needed a dedicated attorney to help on their case! Thanks Chris!
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24 Jul, 2017 by Amanda
Larry Crane represented me in both state and federal court and went so far above and beyond anything I could have hoped for in representing me, he was honest with me about what I was facing and in court I was so pleased with the outcome I have been recommending him adamantly ever since! He's wonderful and I'm with my family today and not in jail because of his extra efforts.
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10 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Crane falled to defend me instead he make a deal with DA for me (one already offered to me before he was hired)and when I refused it he tried to intimidate me into taking it anyway. I told thim he was fired and he said I couldn't fire him. He continued to go ahead without me and go to court. I had talked with judge and said I wasn't able to come to court due to an illness. He had put hardly no time in case and as I had no written contract with him and he would not give me billable hours he put in on case.
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25 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Lucas has no ethics and makes up false and slanderous things. Avoid him at all costs.
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20 Feb, 2022 by Edward
His integrity is unmatched. Unless you compare him to Sydney Powell (the nut job still trying to overturn the election). Avoid this guy at all costs.
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19 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I obtained the services of Lucas Marchant on behalf of my son who is a high school student. Mr. Marchant was very genuine and walked us through the criminal justice process, as well as, the public school procedures involving disciplinary action. Mr. Marchant always kept me up to date on what was taking place and came to the best resolution for our situation that we feel like we could have come to. I would definitely recommend The Marchant Law Firm and would retain his services again if I ever find myself needing a lawyer again.
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05 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Handled a trafficking case for me in 2012/13. Took a $25000 retainer, then came back for another $10000 5 months later, ostensibly for federal representation. Let me get interviewed by dea without counsel present and justified the fees by implying all along he could get Judge Verdon to give me an illegal sentence. Was ultimately sanctioned by the Disciplinary Counsel of the SC Supreme Court for his handling of my case and the plea he arranged has been withdrawn. I only had to spend 3 years in prison and my family had to spend about another $50000 to achieve this.
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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.
