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22 Jul, 2024 by Lilianna palumbo
Kevin Kelly is one of the most personable individuals I have ever met. His consistency in professionalism and knowledge makes you feel secure, knowing that he is doing everything in his power to help you. He responds to emails and texts quickly, and makes sure to reassure you when you don’t understand something. I could not have asked for a better lawyer to handle my case, and he will be the first I call if I ever need help again. I would recommend Kevin Kelly to everyone, he is amazing.
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12 May, 2024 by Gio palumbo
Very professional and knowledgeable, knew exactly how to help my family and a great guy to work with.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Tim lago
Kevin helped me close on a major business transaction. It was complicated, and he always provided insightful guidance through it all.. I can highly recommend him.
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01 Sep, 2019 by Mark
Larry handled my charges promptly, communication was excellent. I was completely dismissed from my AUO charge and my speeding ticket was reduced.........Thanks Larry!
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13 Jul, 2018 by Ryan
I asked Larry if he could write a legal opinion letter for a DWAI in New York State. DWAI is a unique charge because it is a traffic violation and not a crime and is less severe in seriousness compared to an ordinary DWI. Larry authored a letter explaining what a DWAI is and this letter has proven to be useful for employment and other scenarios. I needed another letter for another purpose and Larry was kind enough to do this for free. He didn't ask for any more money or expect anything in return. Larry is a great lawyer and based on what I have seen goes above and beyond for his clients.
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29 Aug, 2017 by Kent
Larry and Mike both worked on my aggravated DWI case and are a shining example of what a law firm should be. They were most helpful from start to finish of a very unpleasant set of circumstances. Providing 'to do' lists both before and after sentencing, answering countless questions I had without hesitation and offering positive support every step of the way. These gentlemen truly care about their clients and it shows. If you find yourself in an unfortunate situation requiring legal representation- look no further! They will help to put your mind at ease when things may appear hopeless. Cannot thank them enough!
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18 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I can’t say enough about Luke. He helped my son many times and took care not of only of his legal issues but also made sure to explain everything to us so we can understand the situation. We never felt rushed, he always answered our calls and messages. He is such a compassionate person.
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08 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Luke stayed with me from the first phone call. Always made me feel at ease. Professional!! Witty and funny.
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29 Jan, 2022 by Tanya
I'm 48 and my husband is a trial lawyer, so I have been inside a lot of court rooms and I've never encountered a lawyer like Mr. Fenchel. I hired him on a very simple matter but watching him interact with his court appointed clients I realized he is a unicorn... a lawyer that genuinely cares what happens to other people. It is very clear that the judge and DA respect him, but I also respect him for the human kindness he showed not only to his court appointed clients but to their loved ones and to me as well. I can't believe I just handed a lawyer all my money and thought 'wow that was awesome' but here we are. I'm almost glad I got a stone cold sober DUI just so I could know such an interesting person exists. He is so smart careful and articulate I do not think he misspoke a single time, his general policy looks to be to just to outwork everyone and it shows. Eleven stars.
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22 Jan, 2010 by Diane
Maura helped with an unemployment dispute. It was a difficult case and one where I had little chance of winning. Maura was easy to work, followed through on her research and filed everything on time. I would hire her again any time.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Chris smith
charles kee and his firm were outstanding and indispensable help to us with an important recent family real estate transaction. they were quick to respond to questions, thorough on every detail, and strong advocates for us whenever necessary. highly recommend.
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10 May, 2024 by Eric smith
Mr. Kee's service has been above and beyond. His professionalism, knowledge, experience, and pesonal presence has been an immense sense of comfort through a very difficult time for our family. From the very start, he was honest and did not try to paint an unreal picture of what the outcomes could be. He never stopped working to get the best possible outcome for our situation. We would say he was worth every penny. While we plan on never needing his services again, we would recommend him 100% for anyone in need of legal help or guidance.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Sam steavens
Charles was very knowledgeable during my case with him and helped me a lot during the time he represented me. He is worth the cost because he takes the time to KNOW your case before representing you in court. I feel like that is hard to come by nowadays, so I truly appreciated it. I absolutely recommend taking him on as your lawyer if you can do so!
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05 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
John was an excellent advocate. He initially provided a calm, reassuring presence after I was arrested and charged. He kept me focused on day-to-day life in spite of my dire legal situation. In the courtroom and behind the scenes, he was excellent. Many people with knowledge of the DA's office prepared me for the worst because the facts of my case were terrible. However, John negotiated masterfully. He secured a plea bargain that exceeded my expectations and has allowed me to pursue a normal, fulfilling life with minimal interference. I'm forever grateful to John Fitzgerald for the exemplary work he did on my behalf.
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18 Jan, 2014 by Jim
John Fitzgerald is a fine dependable lawyer. He has always impressed me with his knowledge of law and how it applies to legal matters of my concern. John Fitzgerald is someone who grasps the situation quickly and conveys his interpretation of how the law can apply and will give more than one clear understandable explanation. I’m am very grateful I can call him my lawyer.
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31 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I was charged with several criminal offenses and Scott Miller was able to get my case down to a noncriminal ticket. This allowed me to move on without having a criminal record, and to escape the scarlet letter of a conviction. Legal fees were reasonable. Would recommend to anyone facing a serious legal challenge.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Wahtura jackson
Personable staff, knowledgeable, and efficient. This office handled 2 cases for me. Thank you for your hard work!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Karen jewett-bennett
They are the greatest.
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09 Nov, 2020 by Ricky “flip” button jr.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ypcconcierge ypcmedia
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08 Jul, 2024 by Blake pierce
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08 Jul, 2024 by Richard langendoerfer
Littman & Babiarz is an out standing firm. I have been a client for a long time. There the best in the area. They have helped me meny times with my case. There staff is very knowlagable and friendly. There fast when you need help. I recammend there firm very highly. I say don't listen to one post. Call them and see for yourself.
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03 Nov, 2024 by 連火顧 臺 師 大火顧
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19 Sep, 2024 by Sharan garlapati
I left one of my backpacks here. I believe that they discarded it.
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21 Aug, 2024 by María camila ordóñez
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15 Nov, 2021 by Victoria boynton
Wonderful attorneys!
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17 Oct, 2021 by Derick cummings
Tells you he will get back to you with answers and then you never get the call back just a bill! Beware!!
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24 Aug, 2021 by Derick & brittany “pax vapor” snyder
Amazing man and ready to help!
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08 Jul, 2024 by James weber
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08 Jul, 2024 by Brandon bentley
Chris represents me in family court and I honestly do not believe it would have gone as well as it did without him...and I am father in Tompkins County. Extremely blessed to have him as representation, a hard fighter make no mistake!!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Louann kash
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14 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
What should have been a quick and clear cut case was dragged out for eternity. I was presented with long conversations and extensive emails that discussed a billion different scenarios for my case without any real direction or suggestions for the course of action I needed to take. It made me feel like my hands were tied when they very clearly were not. Her heart is in the right place but she lacks experience to provide clear guidance and recommendations for her clients - which ends up costing the client much more money.
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07 Nov, 2013 by Betsy
Sujata Sidhu Gibson has helped me with a number of matters, including estate planning, several real estate transactions and various corporate transactions. She brings all the skills and accuracy of a big firm lawyer (having worked in that world before moving back to Ithaca) but charges less than most of the lawyers in town and she contributes a large portion of her time to pro bono work. Ms. Gibson is scrupulously honest and I can rest easy knowing she will get me the best results and be generous with her billing.
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04 Nov, 2013 by Colin
Sujata helped me set up an LLC and worked with me on a real estate closing. She was very easy to work with and I would not hesitate to work with her again.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
This attorney is only concerned with money and how much she can make off of you. She will promise you great results, then get you involved in a living hell. Hired for a family court case that took forever and cost me a fortune. Could have done it better myself, and saved a lot of money, time, and pain. Referred and would never refer her to anyone I know.
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05 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
She's the best lawyer around, I had her for family court as well she fought and fought for me and my child ...was hard to get in contact with at times but she's very busy and when I called she would get back with in two days and if very important less then 4hrs of not in court ....if it wasn't for her I would never have gotten threw my case and have my son ..she explained things so well to so I could understand what was what ....I will recommend her for anyone in family court...
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05 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
She helped me get my child from her father who always made my child feel horrible about her self and never cared what he did to her....she explained anything I asked about and was a shark in the court room and fought unbelievably hard for me even thou she didn't know me or my child.....I would deff recommend her to anyone she's awesome ....
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23 Oct, 2024 by Jeff bessmer
We had two issues: 1. We had our closing on our house purchase and our attorney just.. never showed up. We waited 45 minutes and thankfully their team scrambled to have someone else put everything together for us, but we never found out what happened. I hope they were ok! 2. They agreed to pay our taxes as part of escrow, but mistakenly didn't pay it and sent us a check instead. Thankfully they admitted the mistake, but when I asked them to pay the late fee the county charged us they just ...stopped responding. We won't be working with them again in either personal or business capacity.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Debbie hall-ryan
I would highly recommend this law office. We have used them a couple of times and they are professional, prompt, caring and very helpful. Excellent office.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Loafus crambuckle
Blonde middle aged lady with the bad fake lashes at the front is a major grouch and makes coming here a dreadful experience. I’ll change my review once she’s finally gone. (Which probably won’t take long)
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21 May, 2024 by Kimberly berry
This guy promised my mom a settlement going on 6 years and he doesn't return calls but he takes your money.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Jonathan fanduiz
Extremely polite and helpful. I’ve called dozens of law offices in the past two days and he was one of very few that returned my call. I was recommended to him and would gladly pass the recommendation on.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Jennifer hubble
Absolutely horrible! Lies, drags things on for years and never even does the job. Not so much as file one piece of paperwork. Just lie after lie. Every answer is he was just getting ready to file/mail/work on it. Baloney. Never does a thing. Don't bother calling either- he will never return a phone call or answer. Been calling for months and not once has anyone returned a call. Worthless.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Jesse bush
Essential for family court. Gives excellent counsel through email and phone call. Joe Kirby successfully defended matters concerning family court for me. Would recommend.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Benjamin gentile
If you want some one on your side that has little to no will to fight for you, then this is your guy.. Jason will do the bare minimum to push thinks along and will never get aggressive on your behalf.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Mary colwell
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21 May, 2024 by Kimberly berry
This guy promised my mom a settlement going on 6 years and he doesn't return calls but he takes your money.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Jonathan fanduiz
Extremely polite and helpful. I’ve called dozens of law offices in the past two days and he was one of very few that returned my call. I was recommended to him and would gladly pass the recommendation on.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Jennifer hubble
Absolutely horrible! Lies, drags things on for years and never even does the job. Not so much as file one piece of paperwork. Just lie after lie. Every answer is he was just getting ready to file/mail/work on it. Baloney. Never does a thing. Don't bother calling either- he will never return a phone call or answer. Been calling for months and not once has anyone returned a call. Worthless.
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22 Nov, 2010 by Anonymous
I contracted Mr. Shaw last year to represent my interests in the sale of a large piece of real estate. Regrettably, Mr. Shaw was not at all responsive to my needs -- I had contracted him to handle specific issues related to the matter at hand, and our retainer agreement stipulated that any additional work would need to be preapproved by me in writing. Repeatedly, he performed work that I did not approve, which, of course, he deemed as "necessary", and which caused the legal bill for the transaction to end up at 6x what even he had originally quoted. In addition, much of the work provided by Mr. Shaw and his staff was sloppy, and I needed constantly correct him.
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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:

  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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