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16 Sep, 2022 by Owen
Jack Denton is among the most honorable and hardworking people I have met. I began helping my father with his divorce case in late 2021, and at the time, was frustrated by a different attorney’s lack of attention and focus on my dad’s case. I am my father’s power-of-attorney but live in Texas while dad still lives in Mississippi. My father has dealt with some cognitive decline in recent years and has a hard time keeping track of key details, so I knew I’d have to replace dad’s previous lawyer with one I could fully trust. I wanted to find a lawyer who didn’t know my family for various reasons, so I found Jack on Google and was immediately impressed with the large number of high ratings and positive reviews. I found one negative review but the context and complaint seemed laughable to me, and I was even more convinced at how outlandish that complaint was after I began interacting with Jack, myself. I called his office one day, and Jack spoke with me on the phone, at length, and gave me good (free) advice on how to try one last time with dad’s current lawyer at the time. He was complimentary of that other lawyer and gave me some context about the situation. He said he would be available if I chose to go a different route or things didn’t work out with that lawyer. Read that again: despite my explicit frustration with the previous lawyer, Jack didn’t swoop in to make a buck—he gave me sound advice on the next steps before I made a move to retaining him as dad’s lawyer. Long story short, I did, and Jack helped us navigate a final effort at negotiating with the other party in the divorce, helped us file necessary pleadings to push the process along, and gave all of us good and clear updates along the way, adapting to our unique needs because of my location and my dad’s memory difficulties. He helped shepherd us through some of the toughest months of my dad’s life, and sure enough, his advice and judgment was sound, time and again. He nudged us in the right direction at times, and advised against certain things at other times, and generally helped us keep the peace with the other party in the divorce. I can’t think of a better experience from a divorce attorney. He charged us far, far too little for the quality of service he provided, and that’s the truth. Jack Denton is a good lawyer and an even better person, and I highly recommend him. I hear he does property title work, too. I just wish I had a house to buy in Mississippi to send more business his way. There are several good lawyers in south Mississippi, but Jack Denton has earned my full trust.
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24 Mar, 2022 by Anna
I am not from Mississippi and was very afraid about having a legal issue here as I had no connections or support. I found Mr. Jack Denton as a referral from a friend of a friend. I have never worked with a lawyer previous to this experience. I originally contacted his office on a weekend, and his receptionist answered. She was incredibly kind and supportive and was able to schedule a consultation appointment within 24 hours. I met with Mr. Denton for that consultation and entered the room just terrified and overwhelmed by my current situation. He calmly and confidently explained how he would approach my situation and was incredibly supportive. He reassured me that this was easily something that we could handle. I immediately retained his services without hesitation. I left feeling relieved and calm. We worked together for several months, during which time there were many ups and downs in the preparation for my case. This was out of both of our control and I was emotional at every turn. Mr. Denton always responded quickly to my questions with patience and support. He took care of everything immediately and responded with reasonable solutions that made the entire situation much more approachable and achievable. I feel that I should have paid much more for all of the work he put into my case and for how much advice he offered. I cannot put a value on the reassurance and security he provided. Our case ended with the best possible outcome that I could have imagined. Having someone in my corner who not only knows the legal system in Mississippi but also has the experience and connections to gain better insight into my case and the realistic outcomes that I could expect made me feel confident. I was very impressed by this process and ecstatic with the outcome. I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Denton to anyone in need of legal services. He is kind, honest, patient, exceptionally capable, and well connected within the legal community. Thank you so so much, Mr. Denton!
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09 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Denton handled my divorce very well. He made it a smooth and painless process.
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19 May, 2020 by Demetria
I was referred to Mr. George by a friend. Mr. George and his staff took such good care of me and my family during our hardship. I continue to rely on his expertise. I appreciated the research that he applies to each of his cases. His fees are reasonable.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I was charged with a serious felony that could have caused me to go to prison for life. Mr. Schmidt put in the hard work and was able to get my charges dismissed.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Shelly murphy
Highly recommend Carter Law Office. Lindsay is great and Penny is the cherry on top!!
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17 May, 2023 by Dorie hamilton
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23 Jul, 2022 by Gregory williams
His great
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12 Dec, 2023 by Shandee freeman
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26 May, 2019 by Curtis shaffer
Seth Hunter was awesome in his attention to detail and knowledge of the law in my case.
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17 Mar, 2019 by Malissa cameron
Very friendly staff! They are very professional and have it all together! Would highly recommend
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12 Dec, 2023 by Shandee freeman
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26 May, 2019 by Curtis shaffer
Seth Hunter was awesome in his attention to detail and knowledge of the law in my case.
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17 Mar, 2019 by Malissa cameron
Very friendly staff! They are very professional and have it all together! Would highly recommend
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15 Aug, 2024 by Haley
Mr. Hall represented me whenever I got in trouble and I couldn't have asked for a better attorney and someone that knows the law. I would highly recommend me hall to anyone
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09 Sep, 2024 by Depree cooley
She is very gifted and passionate in what she do. She is dedicated and Devoted to fighting for you and getting the justice that you deserve. She takes pride in her work. She help change my life forever. She is always honest and loyal no matter what.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Marcus
I truly love and appreciate Miss Rickman I was appointed her on a 2 first degree felonies and as my Pro Se lawyer (public defender) she really held true to her word and fought for my physical freedom. She has never left my mind or heart. -Marcus Simmons-
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08 Mar, 2024 by Geoffrey edmiston
They helped us out when we were from out of state and in a bind. Great service and communication! We would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Geoffrey edmiston
They helped us out when we were from out of state and in a bind. Great service and communication! We would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Sylvia ryals
I us
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15 Sep, 2023 by Everyday essentials
Mr George is the BEST ! I’ve dealt with him for 6 years , and he has ALWAYS did a great job . One of the only lawyers that will work with you with the price and be there to support you . Also , his assistant Conni …hands down , AWESOME! Any time that I have called the office , Conni relays my message and is very consistent. I can always trust George with his word and unlike most lawyers , he’s very upfront and precise . I would recommend him over any lawyer that I’ve dealt with .
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08 Jun, 2024 by J.
I filed a complaint against her license with the bar it was so bad. She signed a temp order without sending to me or my agreeing, didn’t tell me about an emergency hearing that occurred, didn’t show up for and canceled all of our meetings, submitted discovery on my behalf weeks after I fired her with no evidence or witnesses on my behalf at all, she said she drank “crown for breakfast” to me and her assistant before my pre trial hearing in poplarville (naturally she had no clue what was going on that hearing), the list goes on and on. Truly shocking abandonment of her duties! I asked her for a refund and she lost her mind- sent over 10 threatening emails, threatened to file charges and all. I am an abuse survivor and am begging you to find a different and competent attorney if you’re fighting that fight. It’s hard enough with adequate support in this court system.
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25 May, 2024 by Shawn o'steen
Very good people! Margaret is a great lawyer who genuinely cares about her clients.
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03 Feb, 2024 by John hobden
This is your go to defense lawyer in hattiesburg mississippi. when it matters, you want the best lawyer. I highly recommend Homes law firm.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Jamie riggs
My husband and I were looking for some legal information on how to navigate a family custody case in another county and Mrs. Porter was NOT SHY!! She was honest with us, she told us various possibilities. She didn't allow her lack of knowledge of another county's court system deter her from helping us. She even made wonderful references to lawyers that were able to practice in the county that we needed. I like that she was up-front with us. She immediately said that she didn't work in that particular county, but she STILL did her due diligence in helping us. She understood where we were coming from as former foster parents and actually HEARD US. We loved her and would go back to her in a heartbeat if we needed to!! She has also kept in contact with us on our case and offerred prayer for us as we went forward. There is nothing like an attorney that places her clients first!!
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30 Nov, 2023 by Larelle thoms
Original post 8 years ago. I had a very negative expierence with this attorney and Requested my money back. I am a disabled military wife of an active duty soldier and , I hired her for a custody hearing for my 4 daughters and after basically saying look youve done nothing I want my money back and am Lodging a complaint with the Mississippi Bar she passed the blamed onto her assistant, and asked me for more time and more money. She wanted more money for a job she hadnt done and did everything she could to extend time. Then when I asked her assistant for my paperwork and court file she told me to stop harassing her assistant , blocked me from emailing the office and told me I could contact her only. Then when I told her I wasnt paying her anymore money because she had not done the job I hired her for , which was the custody representation for my 4 daughter, I wrote a demand for refund letter for the $3000 retainer and the amount for shipping and my replacement court custody file she said she had didnt have any longer not only that I had to send her a bill for the 2000 page court file. My advise if if you arent in the state to meet your attorney do not hire them. I am still waiting for my refund. I am just going to say I had a horribly negative experience and i felt strung along. each time I called she was out of the office, in court, on vacation,sick her kid was sick, she was going thru her own divorce, she had a personal day. I notified her I was a DISABLED MILITARY WIFE OF A SOLDIER WHO WAS ACTIVE DUTY AND GOING TO DEPLOY TO AFGHANISTAN and she was quick to take money money and I got NOOOOO representation. Then when I called and emailed to get services she said I was harassing her assistant , who she pushed me off on. I wouldnt even give this person a star. Today LITERALLY 8 YEARS LATER- Ms Porter attempted to gas light me saying I was dishonest in providing information in my case. SHE ATTEMPTED TO DEFAME MY GOOD NAME AND CHARACTER. I FIRED HER BECAUSE SHE WAS HORRIBLE- she DIDNT DO THE JOB SHE WAS HIRED TO DO AND TRIED TO KEEP MY MONEY. I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE SHE HAS DONE THIS TOO. 8 YEARS LATER... I AM RESPONDING TO HER ATTEMPT TO GAS LIGHT ME. SHE CANT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR HER ACTIONS OR LACK THEIR OF. HAD SHE DONE WHAT SHE WAS HIRED TO DO THIS REVIEW WOULD BE MUCH DIFFERENT. 8 YEARS LATER DOESNT SEEM SHE CAN TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR HER ACTIONS STILL. LESS THAN ONE STAR AND ZERO INTEGRITY.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Kristal
Elizabeth was absolutely amazing for the moment we reached out to her. She got us in and had our cased moved along so quickly. She answered any questions we had along the way and completed from start to finish very quickly. She was very compassionate and caring about our situation. Very professional and couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. Thank you Elizabeth. We will be back soon for another matter.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Gregory williams
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11 Mar, 2024 by Rebecca holske
My hopes and prayers are to raise enough money to pay for his great services!
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03 Dec, 2023 by Audrey jackson
Great lawyer. Follows up often.
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14 May, 2024 by Evan
He will make you pay in advance and will more than likely lose your divorce case. You will not get your moneys worth, and none of it back when he can’t even get you a DIVORCE!! Do yourself a favor and go Somewhere else!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Myron speights
Very knowledgeable and professional law office!
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11 Sep, 2023 by Glenn mcneil
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17 Jun, 2024 by Dora graves
Great people.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Graham
While I adore several of these attorneys as friends and people I admire, it does not make up for the worst experience I've ever had with a law office. The first time I called, I was constantly cut off and could not finish a sentence. I was spoken to as if I were a toddler. I still ended up booking a consultation, as I'm bleeding thousands due to fraud that I need legal counsel to fix. I requested it to be conference call due to inclement weather - but they just flat out didn't call me. They did a consultation and declined my case without asking me a question or even showing me the respect of calling me as I requested. I felt completely dismissed and unimportant. When I asked about not receiving a call, despite requesting it a few hours earlier, their staff responded with an attitude, spoke down to me, and hung up on me! I waited 5 days for an appointment, which didn't happen. I've since requested additional callback through their website, as their phone staffer will hang up on you, and have heard nothing back. If you want to deal with a gatekeeping headache, this is the law office for you.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Soribel hernandez
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17 Jun, 2024 by Dora graves
Great people.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Graham
While I adore several of these attorneys as friends and people I admire, it does not make up for the worst experience I've ever had with a law office. The first time I called, I was constantly cut off and could not finish a sentence. I was spoken to as if I were a toddler. I still ended up booking a consultation, as I'm bleeding thousands due to fraud that I need legal counsel to fix. I requested it to be conference call due to inclement weather - but they just flat out didn't call me. They did a consultation and declined my case without asking me a question or even showing me the respect of calling me as I requested. I felt completely dismissed and unimportant. When I asked about not receiving a call, despite requesting it a few hours earlier, their staff responded with an attitude, spoke down to me, and hung up on me! I waited 5 days for an appointment, which didn't happen. I've since requested additional callback through their website, as their phone staffer will hang up on you, and have heard nothing back. If you want to deal with a gatekeeping headache, this is the law office for you.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Soribel hernandez
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31 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
He is a public defender and his only advice is take the offer. I wanted to go to trial, he informed me then that I will be going to prison because he has never won a case when he took it to trial. Now he is telling me if I go to trial I’m gonna get the max that it carries for going against them and wasting everyones time and money.
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24 Jan, 2018 by Joe
Mr. Whitacre was very helpful in resolving my criminal case. He listened to my story and was able to find inconsistencies with the officers report. We eventually went to trial and a not guilty verdict was reached. His fees were very reasonable and I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome of the case.
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01 Aug, 2016 by Curtis
Mr. Whitacre is a very knowledgeable attorney. He will fight for the best outcome possible. He really helped me out when I was in a tough position.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Dora graves
Great people.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Graham
While I adore several of these attorneys as friends and people I admire, it does not make up for the worst experience I've ever had with a law office. The first time I called, I was constantly cut off and could not finish a sentence. I was spoken to as if I were a toddler. I still ended up booking a consultation, as I'm bleeding thousands due to fraud that I need legal counsel to fix. I requested it to be conference call due to inclement weather - but they just flat out didn't call me. They did a consultation and declined my case without asking me a question or even showing me the respect of calling me as I requested. I felt completely dismissed and unimportant. When I asked about not receiving a call, despite requesting it a few hours earlier, their staff responded with an attitude, spoke down to me, and hung up on me! I waited 5 days for an appointment, which didn't happen. I've since requested additional callback through their website, as their phone staffer will hang up on you, and have heard nothing back. If you want to deal with a gatekeeping headache, this is the law office for you.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Fortner to represent my daughter he did absolutely nothing in her defense very disappointed Cosme a lot of cash money and didn’t bill Mr. Fortner earned his pay he hung my daughter out to dry
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27 Sep, 2023 by Shannon
Maura was my attorney for my divorce, and she did everything that she said she could do for me. She is honest, hardworking and very reliable. She will go the extra mile to make sure her clients are satisfied. I wanted spousal support, and she got it plus more. She never leaves you in the blind about what's going on with your case. I will use her again as my attorney for any case that will call for an attorney.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
She was my ex wife’s attorney and she ended up helping me more than her. She is not good at following up and filing important things with the judge. Her incompetency lead to my getting everything I asked for.
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14 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
She was very sympathetic to my situation. I was very satisfied with the out come of my case. I will definitely use her again if I need an attorney in the future.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Karl vander zyl
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30 Mar, 2024 by Linda hodge
No good
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23 Feb, 2024 by Sharon tyler
This place scheduled me a meeting and wasn’t even there. No calls or nothing
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19 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Kimberly Morrison is very rude, disrespectful, unprofessional, unpleasant, and egotistical. Telling a client you don't care, yelling/cussing a client out, and treating a client with no respect. Never in my life has a so called attorney treated me with such unprofessionalism. She's out right awful and kim needs to understand her career is based off her clients not her flagitious attitude.
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02 Oct, 2018 by Josh
This attorney was recommended by a judge from my county. 6 attorneys were interviewed and he was determined to be the best and most expensive. I was in jail for 7.5 months before attorney obtained first plea offer. I had not had a preliminary hearing, bond reduction nor indictment in this time. Attorney stated that if I didn't take this plea I could be held for 2 years. I believe they would have done that to me, but in no way is that legal anywhere in the United States. So I took the plea just to get out of jail. I am not a criminal and had never spent more than one day in jail prior. Jail was a living hell and I was eager to get out. It was very violent so of course I took the first opportunity to end the nightmare. I've since learned that I should have been released and charges dropped after 2 weeks passed without a preliminary hearing. This attorney showed no interest in protecting my civil rights. The plea was for a judicated felony. It was my first felony. That was not mentioned during my plea. However it was for the other person who plead that day. That defendant got a non-judicated felony (expungable upon completion of probation). The judge who convicted me is friends with the so called victim. The same victim, who the judge forbade me to contact, called me 4 times post conviction. He told police the calls were accidental. I informed this attorney who advised me not to tell anyone. This happened in Forrest County, MS. I am not from there nor am I from Mississippi. Attorney was asked it I might fair better in a different county. He said it would be worse. I can't imagine getting a less fair deal than being convicted of a felony I didn't commit by a judge who is friends with the person making the charge. I can support all of this with documentation. This attorney has nullified approximately $200K in education and a lifetime of experience. Because of this conviction my employment opportunities are non-existent. I am posting this to warn others. Has something like this been made available to me, I would not have hired him. I do this as a public service and am willing to share evidence of these claims with AVVO or anyone interested. There is much more but for brevity I will stop here.
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26 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney and have him my money, never was able to get back in touch with him again then he finally contacted me the day before my trial and said he needed 3500.00 more to stay on my case then resigned without me get a hearing
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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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