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17 Oct, 2024 by Chris
Have had him for years and he’s so good my dad picked him up. Highly recommended
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30 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Niles based on a referral from a friend and I'm glad I did. He made an unpleasant situation bearable and easy to navigate. I hope I won't have to hire him again, but if a situation should arise, I would definitely choose Niles every time. I will also be recommending him to anyone who asks for a great lawyer in town
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12 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Driskell for a case and I have been nothing but pleased with his work. I have always been able to get in contact with Mr. Driskell or his paralegal. Both are very friendly and knowledgeable of the criminal world. Hopefully I will not ever need him again but if I did he is the best criminal attorney in town.
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18 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Brandon was very straightforward and was highly educated. He didn’t beat around the bush as most lawyers do. Highly recommended
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17 Aug, 2021 by Alex
I would highly recommend Brandon to anyone. Brandon is very professional, honest, and extremely knowledgeable about the law. He helped our family get justice.
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13 Aug, 2016 by Sabine
Mr. Murphy has defended me in a case against the State. After the initial meeting, Mr. Murphy kept me informed about any info in my case by e mail and did an excellent job by getting it dismissed in a very reasonable amount of time. I am very satisfied with the result and will recommend and rehire this lawyer, should I ever need legal assistance again.
Thank you very much, Brandon!
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13 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Hayes Ruemmele LLC provides excellent legal counsel. Not only do they approach each case with expert knowledge of criminal law, they care about their clients. In my experience, the attorneys at Hayes Ruemmele are honest, transparent, diligent, and work tirelessly for their clients. They offer holistic solutions to legal issues and situations which many law firms do not do. I rate this law firm 5 stars with no reservations. I truly recommend this firm to anyone seeking knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorneys.
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29 Jun, 2016 by Michael
I have consulted with Mr. Hayes on a number of criminal defense matters and civil rights cases. Mr. Hayes handles complex criminal matters and provides excellent support to his clients. I would highly recommend him.
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06 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Chas helped me guide a referral's family through the tricky world of criminal charges. He responded quickly even though my request was made after normal business hours.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Josh staton
I have used Elisha two times. Once for divorce and once for child support modification. She got me what people said I wouldn't get in the divorce. I got the house, she protected my 401K and more.
In the modification the ex tried to bump support higher and take away some time with my kids. Elisha got support lowered and kept the same visitation time I had. Do not hesitate to hire her! She is/was extremely attentive to my questions, cares about her clients and will fight for you. Do not hesitate to hire her!
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16 Apr, 2019 by Kevon
I highly recommend her to any and everyone with family attorney needs.. Very professional and determined. Strong positive energy as soon as she walks on the courtroom.
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25 Mar, 2023 by Nichole jones
19 Sep, 2022 by Briana hall
04 Aug, 2016 by Joshua pedrick
After dealing with a nightmare situation from my previous lawyer Nick took on my case. He was professional, responsive and my case was resolved quickly once he was on it.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Nick was very attentive in all matters related to my interests and thoroughly analyzed each decision, explaining the pros and cons and always recommended the best course of action. I appreciated his consideration for my time while "on the clock" and was always efficient in completing case work and then detailing the steps ahead, as I was always well prepared and never had any bad surprises along the way. The staff is friendly and very helpful.
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09 Jul, 2023 by M hair
Ben has been my lawyer for 7 years and he knows his stuff, super efficient thanks Ben.
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08 Jul, 2023 by Chasity daugherty
I hired Benjamin K. Read to represent me in a court case, and I am beyond happy with the results and outcome of the whole case. His assistant called me to inform me of court dates, times, and costs and was very knowledgeable about any and everything I had questions about. His prices were not too bad compared to the other lawyers I had spoken with, which was a big deal to me because I didn't have tons of money to pay all at once. He allowed me to make payments to him, which most lawyers flat out just simply tell people they can not do this. He was very respectful throughout the entire process, and never judged me about my case whatsoever, and this meant a lot to me. Not once did I have to actually speak to a judge, he did all the work for me (which made me a lot less anxious and worried to come to court because talking to a judge can be scary, I don't care who you are)! To have someone that cares about his clients and represent them professionally and accordingly is the best thing someone going to court could ask for, and I am so pleased with the services he provided, which consisted of being able to get my felony charge dropped to a misdemeanor charge in such little amount of time! This was so huge of a deal to me, considering my record can and will have a big affect in jobs, my lifetime record, attending my children's school functions, and much more! Mr. Read's name and number is now saved in my phone for the future, whether it be myself needing his amazing skills in the court room again, or just to pass on for the next person in need of legal representation. I wouldn't want anyone else to be beside me in court, that's a fact. From beginning to end, he showed the upmost respect, compassion, and most importantly, his talent--and my freedom and record is proof! I definitely recommend Benjamin Read for anyone needing a great lawyer and I can bet you'll be just as satisfied as I was! Thanks so much to the office of Benjamin K. Read and Benjamin himself for doing an amazing job for me!
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12 Dec, 2012 by S.jovani
E.Phil Greg-Excellent lawyer handled my case expeditiously and competent.
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29 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Welch to represent me on an issue which involved my license and citizenship status. I am not illegal but I am not a US citizen either. He researched everything very quickly and let me know what I needed to do in order to get my case dismissed. He was very prompt and very helpful. Thank You
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08 Jan, 2018 by Brian
I have hired Kim for multiple issues. As a father who lost almost all rights from bad break up she landed me joint custody by following her advice, within a year and a half. Helped on a protective order and a tax return dispute. Fair price great comunication. Above and beyond all in all. Handled a case for a friend and they was pleased as well on a grand rights case.
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16 Nov, 2015 by Ron
Kim handled my case and I was pleased with the outcome. She was usually available when I called or returned my calls quickly.
Ottilie Law is a small firm and you will get personal service.
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17 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I retained the services of Mr. Pagano several years ago when he was practicing as a criminal defense attorney. I was charged with misdemeanor battery and sexual abuse. Although these were very frightening charges, Mr. Pagano always discussed the case with me in person and carefully went through how the law applied to my particular case. He firmly believed in my innocence and never waivered in his approach to fighting for me at all court hearings. He demonstrated superior knowledge of the law in all his court presentations and motions. Unfortunately, he had to discontinue representing me before my cases concluded because he was appointed as a judge/magistrate for the County Division Courts in Lake County. Based on all my experiences with Attorney Pagano during that two-year period on my case, I would strongly recommend him in the area of criminal law and for any judicial position in the criminal courts. If more people like him were judges, there would be far fewer miscarriages of justice and innocent people would not be wrongly convicted. Mike honestly does the right thing and holds the State to their burden of proof without reservations.
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10 Dec, 2011 by Julie glade
Magistrate Pagano is one of the best judicial officers I have ever worked with. I have not appeared before him extensively, but have worked with him in Bar Association activities. He is committed and dedicated, and proceeds always with integrity and positive support.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Jewel old
Very good lawyer I have a workman's comp case and it's been going on for over a year now and he's kept me up today on everything and I called and they act like that don't bother them they keep me informed of everything so if you need a good lawyer called Charles dargo better call my lawyer.com
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20 Jan, 2010 by Michelle
He was a public defender for me and did a very good job once he handled the case and not his associates.
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03 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Jungers for a personal injury claim. He got me a settlement that I was pleased with. He was very good about returning my calls and keeping me updated about the status of my claim. I found him to be friendly and very knowledgeable about personal injury law. I I know he does a lot of criminal law too and I've heard good things about him representing clients in criminal cases. would definitely hire him again if I need legal services in the future.
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05 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
This lawyer did an amazing job and fulfilled all the requirements he said he was going to do. Overall he was great in all categories and did a great job!
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04 Dec, 2013 by Chief
Joe first represented me in my divorce in which I was awarded full custody of my children. Since that time I have always felt that he would handle every issue that I would have in the future and he has even helped me deal with a couple of ticket issues . I have and will continue to recommend him to anyone I know that is in need of a good lawyer.
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02 Oct, 2013 by Mark
Joe Banasiak is a rarity. An honest, straight forward, down to earth, knowledgeable, professional, compassionate attorney. I would recommend him to anybody without reservation.
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21 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
He got me full custody of my daughter when she was 2 he’s helped every time I’ve needed with her we gone to court with her mother 6 times she’s never regained custody because of his help
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10 Aug, 2018 by Pam
I was visiting Indiana and my brother needed an attorney and Jon was court appointed. I did have the slightest idea of what to do to help my brother get out of jail. I was calling Mr. McCarty's office and was upset and scared and he was so nice and helpful. He answered the call right away and following his advice I was able to get my brother out of jail and return to Texas. I feel I left my brother in good hands. Thank you once again Mr. McCarty
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10 Sep, 2019 by Molly
I can't say enough good things about Zachary and his staff at the office. I came into his office in quite a panic and he heard me talking with his secretary. He immediately came out to greet me and listened attentively to what was going on. I could tell that Zach and his team truly cared about my situation and were ready and eager to help. Zach jumped into action immediately pausing the tasks he was currently working on. He worked diligently and helped resolve the issue the within hours. From the moment I stepped in his office, Zach and his team made me feel at ease. Zachary is an incredible attorney who will handle your situation with care. I am truly grateful for everything Locke and Witte did for me that day.
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05 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Zach helped my family with our will. He also helped us with my parents estate. He spent a lot of time with us explaining the process during a very stressful time.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Brittany
He was there for us during a difficult time and he won our case. We will use him in the future if necessary.
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06 Nov, 2016 by Brandi
Andrew was excellent handling my custody modification case. He knows the law and is honest about what can or cannot be done. He doesn't sugar coat & he's honest about what to expect. Highly recommend him.
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23 Dec, 2012 by Lisa
I was a client of Amber ying she was my divorce attorney and she was great she was there when i needed her and she kept me informed about everything i really like her and would recomend her to anyone i know that needs a attorney
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17 Sep, 2012 by Nicolaus
I would like to thank and recommend Amber Ying for the excellent service she provided while she help me sort through my legal difficulties. Ms. Ying assisted with the conclusion of a longstanding issue I thought I had little to no recourse.
I was especially impressed with Ms. Ying’s professionalism and ability to get to the bottom of the situation quickly. In addition my expectations were exceeded with the great customer service, timing of information and results, and explanation convenient for a layman to understand.
Without question, I am highly pleased with Ms. Ying’s service; I recommend her to all who desire legal service (in any capacity); and my family and I will continue to work with her in the future.
Sincerely,
Nicolaus I. McDonald
Principal, MAAT, LLC
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28 Nov, 2016 by Maria
When I first met Mr. John Maksimovich I knew instantly that he was all business; as you'd like your lawyer to be, nothing but the FACTS. His patience and understanding during the handling of our families very serious case was gracious and respectful always; he listened intently, asked appropriate questions, took notes accordingly and didn't rush anyone or anything. His genuine comprehension of the LAW is impeccable.
Mr. M was the 2nd lawyer designated to this 'accused' murder case; I thank God every day for the "mishaps" that led to that decision. Without Johns' dedication to his work and this case, (which I'll call a complete farce of wrongful imprisonment), my fiance' would not have seen the light of day; for possibly the rest of his life. I will be forever grateful and most appreciative for the hard work and long hours Mr. M willing provided to our family; which proved, by jury trial, a very just acquittal.
Mr. John Maksimovich is definitely the lawyer with whom you can and should trust with your life! We did.
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21 Nov, 2016 by Stephen
When it comes to consulting and/or hiring a lawyer you should be skeptical; just knowing your in need of a lawyer could sometimes make a person feel helpless. Sometimes situations occur in your life that you have no control over, next thing you know your shopping for the best lawyer you can possibly find. And there are a lot of them. It's ultimately up to you to choose someone that you think will benefit you in your situation. Someone that you can trust. Someone you can trust your life with in some cases. Fortunately for me I met John; I got to know him, he got to know me and most importantly I learned to trust him. Communication between a client and a lawyer is key in my eyes. John is a straight forward lawyer and very, very dedicated to his client (some face to face prep meetings going until 10pm; well knowing that we had an early court appearance the next morning). Definitely a lawyer you want on your side! I trusted him with my life. That being said, I will forever owe Mr. John Maksimovich; for he helped me during a part of my life that I will never forget. Don't be fooled, he is a very intelligent man. I Thank You For Everythng You've Done To Help Me John.
He will be more then a lawyer; he will help you in ways you wouldn't even think, and not realize until it's already over. He will walk you through whatever your going through. On a scale from 1 to 10, he's a 20.
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28 Oct, 2021 by Kate
Having never gone through the court system before, I was extremely overwhelmed when I initiated two protective orders. After careful consideration, I decided to hire an attorney. I found the process of finding a lawyer to be extremely stressful, as I wouldn't get calls back or would talk to an assistant, never with an actual attorney. As soon as I connected with Dina, she put me at immediate ease. My first impressions of her were that she is very confident, knowledgeable, experienced, and detail oriented. She demonstrated high integrity and humility by not agreeing to accept my cases until she was confident she could help. She always was exceptionally open and transparent with me throughout the entire process. She spoke in terms that I understood, which was very much appreciated. Dina was personally accessible, unlike other law offices I attempted to contact before meeting her. When you hire Dina, you will work directly with her and you will find her timing, follow up and follow through are impeccable. It was reassuring to have her as my advocate who was there for me literally every step of the way. She is compassionate and non-judgmental, who actively listened to me. She not only heard me, but she saw me for me! In court, words cannot express how impressive she was in representing my case. While I hope to never have to use her services again, I will never forget the support, guidance, validation, and true compassion she demonstrated during the most challenging moments of my life. Her services are truly invaluable and I will never forget what she has done for me.
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22 Sep, 2021 by Pamela
I contacted Ms. Lozano because she had represented my son as a public defender. Being from out of state, I did not know who to turn to, but I knew that years ago, she treated my son with respect and gave him the representation that he needed. I needed Ms Lozano to go to court and have a charge dismissed, to have a charge recalled from a national data base, talk to the prosecutor and work with DOC from another state.
All was done promptly, communicating kindly and respectful of me all the while, and continued with enthusiasm, until all was resolved! Ms Lozano is a determined, honest and compassionate lawyer
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30 Aug, 2019 by Julie
Jim got my case dismissed! Awesome . committed attorney. Quick to respond to questions. I have my life back! Thank you, Jim McGinley!
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28 Mar, 2014 by Anthony
true passion. had him for a public defender and could never thank him enough. understood what i was going thru as far as my case, medical condition (paralyzed), and desired outcome i sought. i had a paid lawyer first but they really didnt help so i fired them and judge assigned mr. mcginley to me. he was the 3rd lawyer i had on the case but he had done more in less time than than the previous lawyers. he even came to my apartment to talk to me about my case and things he was working on for me. hope he sees this. thank you sir
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26 May, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Elwood to expunge felony arrest records involving a sensitive case. Since the records were actually being expunged earlier under the law, it required the permission of the Prosecutor. On prior occasions, I had not been successful in obtaining permission for these records to be expunged. Finally, another attorney actually referred me to Ken Elwood. I was unsure if the outcome would be any different this time, but I am absolutely glad I hired Ken Elwood. He took the time to review all the details of my case and developed a plan to obtain the State's permission and have my records expunged. It was successful, and I have Ken Elwood and his staff to thank for that. Ken and his staff always kept me informed about the status of the case, returned all emails and calls, and made the process much easier. He gave me an important piece of my life back with this expungement. I would not hesitate to hire Ken Elwood again if I ever need legal assistance with anything else. I strongly recommend and endorse Attorney Elwood in the areas of criminal law and record expungement. Thank you, Ken!
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13 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Kenneth Elwood from the law firm Rhame & Elwood! Kenneth Elwood recently defended me for a theft misdemeanor. Previously, I had been arrested for a possession of marijuana misdemeanor 1 year prior. Typically, people are only offered the pre trial diversion program once. However, Kenneth Elwood was able to get it offered to me for my 2nd arrest even though I already had it for my first arrest! Also only requiring 30 hours of community service!
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28 Nov, 2018 by Rita
Josh Moudy is an excellent attorney. My son was facing mandatory prison time when we hired Josh. He was able to have the sentence reduced and rather than go to prison, my son was given 12 months unrestricted probation. Highly recommend him.
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13 Aug, 2014 by David
Josh was very honest and helpful in guiding me through this process. He was always available via phone or email, and was able to get a bond reduction and a dismissal in the first court appearance.
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30 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I struggled with attourneys and them dropping me and not wanting to deal with my ex and his attourney. He was the only one that sat down and truly listened to my concerns and needs. He was straight forward and down to earth. He was honest regarding situations and made sure I understood what was happening every step of he way. I wouldn't go to any other lawyer.
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04 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Kraus is an excellent attorney. It was by far the best decision I ever made the day I hired him to represent me. Very pleased with his work and drive to get things done. He's honest and caring as I spent several months with him going through the most trying time of my life. I will definitely use him in the future if need be.
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23 Jul, 2018 by Brandon
Michael Babcock truly works miracles! I was going to be charged with a 2nd dui and I had about 3 other charges against me. He not only got the 3 charges dropped but also helped me receive my license. His professionalism and knowledge is outstanding, truly a nice down to earth lawyer. I would highly recommend him.
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19 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Michael Babcock was so helpful in my case. I would recommend him to anyone. He will keep you informed and go above and beyond for you.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Shelly
I knew from our first email exchange that this is who I wanted to work with. From the beginning she said she likes to continue doing my kind of case because she feels like she really helps people, and that she did. Never annoyed by my countless questions, never judgmental, and never trying to nickel and dime me. She paid attention and knew how to handle herself confidentially in a hearing to get the result I’ve been hoping for for years. I am so so grateful!
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10 Jun, 2019 by Kristin hoffmann
Miss Alonzo is very professional yet down to earth. She was very committed and dedicated to stay in communication with myself and the judge and be detail oriented to make sure the best outcome of my case was reached. Her hard work has set her relationship status with the courts and her clients at its peek. I am eternally greatful for her hard work, dedication and committment. The world needs more people like this.
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17 Sep, 2020 by Juanita
Best lawyer ever very kind and generous and helps with all your problems and always available to help
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03 Jun, 2013 by Shaun
very help full and differently knew what he was doing and kept me from being a convicted felon.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Jason
Mark not only represented me effectively, he was very upfront and matter of fact about what the status of my case. He let me know he was on MY side. And that's a big deal when you're standing there looking up at that judge. For criminal defense there's NONE better than Mark.
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01 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I was appointed Phillips law by the county of Warrick Indiana. Mr. Phillips and his son Brenton kept me well informed. We're always prepared for every court appearance. Phillips law is a force. Brenton's unrelenting drive,intuitive understanding of a very complicated and ever changing law. In the courtroom Mark takes over with a dominating presence. Mark Phillips is Phillips law firm, it's like having a army behind you. Brenton & Mark give a little piece of their self's to every case. Phillips law cares. Mark has represented me in many cases over the years,I have always been thankful to have Phillips on my side. Phillips law is truly a life saver. Mark Phillips is a legend in Warrick county.and soon Brenton will be.
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16 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Guzman is always professional. He has the experience to deal in multiple counties. I trust all my legal business with Attorney Guzman.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Matt
I had a P.I. charge after my blood suger went way down to approximately 40. I was working late and drove next door to my work to a gas station, where I lost consciousness at the pump. Adrian was able to navigate through this and get it set aside with no stipulations. Truly a smart and able attorney who will fight for your best interests.
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03 Feb, 2020 by Terry rogers
Very friendly and knowagable. Felt very confident with the information I was getting.
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14 Nov, 2018 by Aj hitzeman
Mr. Thomas is a kind and attentive professional. I would recommend his services to anyone.
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11 Mar, 2016 by Marissa
Luke Krizek was my lawyer for a child support case. I was paying for Daycare all on my own, therefore the child support amount needed to be highered. Mr. Krizek advised me well, and with his help and support, I got what I wanted. Mr. Krizek has amazing analytical skills, and he is very creative when unique situations arose. He was very responsive. When I had questions about my case, he would get ahold of me in a timely manner. Mr. Krizek has remarkable speaking skills. In the court room he always spoke clearly and concisely. It is most important that he cared about my situation. He understood that paying $242 a week for daycare was almost impossible for a woman like me who is going to school full time, working as a waitress, and all the while having a baby that needs provided for. If I ever need a lawyer, Luke Krizek is my choice.
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23 Jul, 2015 by Jonathan
I never would have thought, this young man, would have turned out to be the attorney i would retain for life.
He has acomplished more for me in the family court system, in 4 MONTH's That no other has matched in 10 years.
Thank you, Luke krizek ...
From my family to yours.
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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:
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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.
