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01 Dec, 2022 by Chip foreacre
We have been so working with Robert George for many years. He is an outstanding person! Yes, an excellent attorney! He has guided us thru all of our experiences of being entrepreneurs. It’s been an outstanding relationship!
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19 Nov, 2021 by Rob howard
Have been dealing with Ryan Mittauer, Esq. for months on a judgement collection issue.
Very professional and courteous. Great legal knowledge and constant communication.
Exactly what you would want in an attorney.
Paralegal Alexis Perry is friendly and accommodating.
I cannot speak for other attorneys as I have not used them in a professional capacity, but the firm has a good reputation for results.
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12 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Carter fails to submit or file necessary documents to the court correctly or in a timely manner and neglects his clients. He lacks communication skills, and seems to lack the knowledge that other lawyers have, which is why we found a new attorney who's done more in a week than he has in months.
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17 Sep, 2016 by Homer
I hired John and from the beginning until the end he was on point with everything we had went over about my case. I finally found an attorney that really fought for me and I would recommend him highly to all my family and friends and continue to use him if I ever need an attorney in the future.
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18 Jan, 2016 by Latricia
I hired John Leombruno to represent me on a few Violation of Injunction Charges. I hired other attorneys (ex-state attorney and others)who didn't put in half the work and told me to settle for whatever deal the state had to offer. John listen to me, never disrespected me no matter how anxious I was for him to plead my innocence. He did the work to back up my case and it ended with a favorable result! Charges dismissed.
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05 Jun, 2015 by Chris
I never write reviews on products or services however I always read them when making decisions. I felt in this case I had to!
I had an indication late on a Friday afternoon that I was going to receive an injunction. I immediately started researching what I was going to be facing and lawyers to help in my case. I called several lawyers and was able to get a phone appointment with John on Monday.
Sure enough I was served with papers at 1pm on Monday and had court 8am the next day. Imagine my stress levels at that point. Fortunately I had my phone appointment at 2pm with John. John had taken his time to explain everything and we were on the phone longer than the time he allotted. Understanding my concerns, he met me in his office late that afternoon, to discuss my case. He took his time and explained to me in detail how the process works, the options we have, and his costs. We were the last ones to leave his office!
We went to court and he fought hard for me, was a quick thinker who thought outside the box, and won me my case. I am happy to be past this issue. I had no one else to help me given the time restraints, and if it weren't for John, the outcome would've turned out a lot different. I made the right choice in having John defend me.
If you want a lawyer who is quick, efficient, will do his best to win, and will not overprice, John is your guy!!
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24 Jul, 2024 by James peterson
The worst! Said they could help us. Waited weeks to speak to an actual attorney. Put my wife and me off until the very last minute. Weren't available for phone appointments that THEY scheduled. Every time we called they acted like we've never spoken and had to explain the whole situation again. Then sent us info on rental assistance and said good luck we won't be continuing with representing you a few days before an eviction. Called a REAL attorney (Adams law)
she handled it in 30 minutes. Problem solved.
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10 Mar, 2024 by P. carson dean
This non profit establishment is a very dedicated and professional team. Helping our community and also assisting me with my probate matters. I appreciate the staff especially Sara, paralegal and the wonderful attorneys that helped and assisted me. I am very grateful. Thanks Three Rivers Legal Services for being there to help with our needs.Thanks Carson 🙂
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03 Jan, 2024 by Letitia dubignon
I never received a call back to discuss my issues 😢😢
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23 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired this office to evict a family member. I specifically told them I was in the middle of a divorce and that my soon to be ex was not in the house but is on the deed. I asked if that would be a problem. They told me no. They said it would take 6 weeks. At 6 weeks, I get a call from one of the lawyers claiming I did not tell them about the divorce or that soon to be ex is on the deed. That they cannot do anything about the eviction because of it. Then said they talked to the main attorney and that he said he’s willing to get involved in my divorce for a fee of $3500. They got $800 from me for doing nothing and then wanted to try and get me for another $3500? Yeah, no. I would not use them or recommend them. And by the way, they have evidence that I told them everything in the consultation as they told me it was being recorded.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Matt
The dude began insulting me because I dared to follow up on unresponsive emails to him. Then said I was a "serial emailer" and began lying that I was sending emails every two days, which is not true.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Hired 03/20/2023. Returned signed agreement, paid fee, and requested Documents to Janice Price on 03/20/2023; called 03/21/23 to verify receipt of documents: NO RESPONSE. Followed up 03/22/2023 with email: NO RESPONSE. Called on 03/22/2023 in the afternoon and reached a receptionist who advised 6 - 12 weeks for eviction and no one will call unless need something; never answered my initial inquiry actually only a simple inquiry and hung up the phone. I was discouraged by handling and wrote a letter canceling the agreement and requesting a refund and was sent the following two emails. """" The issue with communication has not been us. Your expectations are not reasonable. For $500 we kick your tenant out, we don’t double-confirm every email we send or receive to you, that’s not something we do. We don’t do a bunch of explaining or hand-holding, which we told you at the outset. We we’re upfront about that it takes 4-6 weeks. Nobody here told you 12 weeks.
As stated in the fee agreement, the attorney’s fee is non-refundable. If you wish to go another direction, we can give you a refund of unexpended court costs only. Or you can be patient for the 4-6 weeks we told you, and we’ll have your tenant out in the time we gave you. Let me know what your preference is. and
I haven’t said anything untrue, you’re just having a mini-meltdown because we won’t double-confirm every communication you have back and forth with us, which is because: obviously. That’s silly. If you don’t get a bounce-back then we got it. This level of angst is unnecessary, we do 500-1000 of these a year, and we’ve got this. We don’t need you stressing over it.
All we need is pay us, send us the documents we requested, and we’ll get your tenant out in the time and cost we agreed to. If we need anything we’ll call you. We have lots of satisfied clients. That’s all there is to it. It’s not complicated, and there is no need for you to worry about it, let alone to this extent.
Just be patient and all will be well.
Sent from my iPhone""""""""
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31 Oct, 2019 by David
I was sued by a bankruptcy trustee in Chicago. He was trying sue for my rents collected on a Real Estate investment using the 90-day "claw back" provision in bankruptcy law. I hired Sean Dore to have the claim dismissed. Sean wrote one of the most brilliant responses to the plaintiffs' claims I have ever read. The trustee's attorneys obviously saw their client wasn't going to prevail and quickly settled for a small sum of money. If I wanted to drag the lawsuit out I am sure it would have been dismissed.
What impressed me most about Sean was his thorough grasp of the principles of this case and of bankruptcy law. Nothing was going to get by on his watch. He was also no-nonsense, focused and to the point. He and his staff were always responsive, prompt and friendly.
I would rehire Sean Dore in a "Chicago" minute should the need arise.
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31 Oct, 2019 by Eric
I recently hired Mr. Dore to defend me in a frivolous lawsuit. I've also hired his partner Mr. Duffin to handle a few real estate transactions for me over the years. I have been very pleased with them as well as their extremely friendly and helpful assistants Lisa and Kristi. They have very reasonable fees and constantly kept me updated with the legal proceedings. I practice law myself but currently work in a foreign country and so it was very comforting knowing that they were always on top of things without me even being in the country. Furthermore, I've always appreciated their clear and concise answers when I have any questions. Finally, they don't attempt to rack up unnecessary fees like other law firms might do. I definitely plan to keep using them in the future.
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10 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Dore for my divorce/family law proceedings. He was very knowledgeable, honest, emphatic and thorough. He kept me informed of the process throughout my case. I was very happy with the results and Judgment. Also, as if going through a divorce wasn't enough, I was involved in a car accident. I also ended up retaining him for my injuries and he was able to get me a very favorable settlement. I highly recommend him.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Wilhelmina
Has not replied to me yet. I'm hoping that he's on my document paperwork for a reason. I somehow think I hired him somewhere as she's on my documents. I hope he replies. He does look like an interesting man in this picture. Thank you
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04 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He handled my case , and fought like he had no experience ! Ask questions unrelated to the case and i told him he set me up to fail ! His line of questions was unrelated ! And we lost the case and i am left severely disabled !
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08 Aug, 2013 by Tom
I was injured in a car accident several years ago. I met Kevin at McGrath Gibson in conjunction with being represented by Brad Gibson. Kevin handled the litigation of my case and got the insurance company to make a reasonable offer to settle my case at mediation. This came after a long battle and years of my case being denied of for no good reason. He was very knowledgeable and really helped me understand all of the issues in my case. I would highly recommend Kevin and his law firm.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I used Julia’s service’s three different times in the past year, all for a related case.
Julia went above and beyond each time to listen to me, answer my texts or phone calls, and take extra time to prepare for the hearing until I felt comfortable.
She takes a direct no-nonsense approach to her cases and uses high levels of discernment in sorting out the facts & truth and letting them speak for themselves.
I was thankful to have her on my side to win all 3 of my cases and would highly recommend her to anyone.
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03 Jan, 2023 by Elijah d.
Julia got me in a far worse jam than I started out in. I got 2 traffic citations for one stop and didnt want to pay the fine plus receive the points on my license. I hired Julia and said the most important thing to me is not receiving any points on my license. She set a hearing 2 months out and didn't even notify me of the result. I had to track her down (she does not communicate) until I finally got a hold of her and she told me I had to pay the court fees and attend a 12 hour IN-PERSON driving school. I asked if that meant I wouldnt get any points and she had NO IDEA. She is either playing me or very inept. I have kept trying to call her and she does not respond.
So instead of paying the fine and getting points I now...
-paid her
-pay court fees
pay for driving school
-waste 12 hours of my life on driving school
-still get points
AWFUL HUMAN
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01 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
This is a little story from a few years back.
I came to Julia in a jam regarding an issued criminal citation from Georgia. Julia guided me through the process from start to finish. She communicated well and got all of the information she needed from me. As a result, she convinced the prosecutor to drop the charges.
Highly recommend this wonderful attorney if you’re in a Florida or Georgia criminal jam.
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05 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Neil Weinreb was my attorney and did an amazing job. He is a wonderful person with compassion who will fight for your cause with all he has. Such a blessing to have him on our side.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This attorney has been very impressive. Honestly, im glad he is on our side. It took him only moments to digest 100s of pages of discovery. He is not intimidated easily.
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15 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Don’t waste your time with this attorney, he is unorganized and mismanages his work load. He responds late to emails, phone calls and will not represent you correctly. This attorney has costed us more in attorney fees than I originally expected to pay. Now i have to hire a new attorney and i am out of 8 thousands dollars due to his negligence.
Please be aware
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28 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
We had moved to the Jacksonville FL area and still had our personal documents from two years ago in New Jersey. We needed them updated to Florida laws.
We researched attorneys in the area and chose Ms Rosenberry and we are glad we did! She was prompt with all communication and was able to update all our documents in a more than timely manner. Her rates were more than reasonable but more than that, her demeanor and the expectation we had was more than exceeded.
She is now our family attorney and we would recommend her to anyone needing representation.
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10 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Excellent work, professional, timely, quick to empathize and communicate and very sweet and compassionate person! Highly recommend!
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03 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
How can she be expected to help your family when she allows her husband to shirk his responsibilities as a father and as a man? This is shameful. Never hire her.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Ben
When you have a complaint against a bank you are likely to find complaints to the Attorney General or State Attorney go nowhere. It is because they are funded by the Banking System???? Lots of law firm are connected to banks and by and large attorneys stick together. Nah-Deh Simmons was not afraid to state the truth. I have received a fraudulent account statement. I will pay $25,000 to any one that can show I am incorrect about receiving a fraudulent account statement. That offer is extended to every member of the Florida House, the US Congress, and everyone else. www.BootTheBankers.com
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01 Jul, 2024 by Natalia
Mr. Simmons was very professional and handled my family’s case with great care and compassion. He referred us to an excellent attorney and I’ve never been more thankful.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Astin
Great Criminal Defense Attorney returns phones unlike other attorneys he fought very hard in court
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10 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
He simply spent no time trying to help. when I would call for updates on my husbands case, he seemed annoyed with me (I called every 3 days for 2 weeks- this is normal) Then he made a comment which made us feel as if his plan was to throw something together when we got to the courtroom. He had no intention of meeting with me to get any helpful documents prior to the actual court date, no prep. Any good lawyer will want all these document before court so they can prepare. even just 1 day before. but before none the less.
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18 Jun, 2014 by Robin
Art Stresing was extremely professional and caring while handling my divorce. Mr. Stresing made sure I was always aware of what was happening throughout my divorce process. He spent tireless hours making sure he covered all basis concerning my overall security. Because of his diligence and resourceful work ethic I came out of my divorce with more than I expected. He is an awesome lawyer with a heart of gold. If your going through a divorce and need someone who will listen and take the initiative to get you that best settlement..Art Stresing is the best! Thank you Art for making a painful process a lot easier!
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28 May, 2018 by Carlos
I hired this attorney to clean up a mess previous attorneys had created in my case. He was very efficient and knowledgeable. And he walked me through the whole process. Very good lawyer!
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04 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr.Elias for my divorce case which took longer that it should, due to inconsistent communication. As the divorce case was going to an end, I hired him for my immigration case. I paid the initial downpayment and didn't hear anything after a month (which requires me to pay him again for monthly services). I felt like he is prolonging the process for the lawyer's fee. I've send multiple email and text messages -still no response for a month. After confronting him about how I feel towards the situation I cancelled his services and asked for a refund since he didn't do anything for my immigration case (which is very time constraint case). He kept the money, didn't communicate well and didn't fully finish my prior case. Until now, i don't have my papers which he promised to send me. I could've hired a better lawyer who I atleast won't feel degraded and got taken advantage of.
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13 Oct, 2015 by Ashley
Ms. Schaap was very informative of the process and the situation at hand. After discussing my situation and my case, Ms. Schaap took full control and helped me through my case 110%. Everything was handled in a timely fashion and she was available to me every time I needed him. Ms. Schaap fought to get my case thrown out and all charges dropped. If you ever need an attorney who is going to be for you and work for you hire Ms. Schaap. I was very pleased and satisfied with the services I received from the beginning to end. And the end result being all charges dropped and thrown out.
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19 Nov, 2012 by Soti
SHE WILL NOT DO ANYTHING TO HELP MY SO. ANYTHING WE ASK OF HER SHE SAYS SHE CANT DO OR CAN BE DONE, SHE DONT EVEN GIVE IT A TRY. IT TOOK HER OVER 3 MTH TO GIVE MY SON THE DISCOVRY PAGE AND DONT HAVE A COMPLETE ONE. SHE KEEP PASSING HIS CASE AND THEY DONT HAVE NO WITNESSES AND WONT EVEN TRY TO GET THE CASE THROWN OUT. SHE TELL MY SON THE BEST THING HE CAN DO IS TAKE 10 YRS THEN GIVE HIM A DEAD LINE TO TAKE THE 10YRS. IS SHE SUPOSE TO BE HIS ATTY OR THE PROSECUTOR. TO ME SHE CAN DO BETTER I WILL NEVER RECOMEND HER TO NO ONE.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This was the worst experience I had with an attorney. She came to court unprepared. She never rebuttal any information from my ex-spouse attorney, I waited almost 3 weeks to get my final order from the judge and when received was mostly in my ex favor. Don't waste your money
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06 Oct, 2021 by Mrs. 8732
05 Aug, 2019 by Pooh “ms.herndon” mee
20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney Kevin is Knowledgeable and Caring. He let me know what I needed to help plead my case. I cooperated with him in a timely manner so he can help me as much as he can. He returned my calls and messages in a timely manner which shows me just how much he cares. I will hire him again and again if I need to.
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01 Aug, 2019 by Chuck flantroy
I am very satisfied with my lawyer, Kevin Cobbin. He is very well informed, connected and smart. Most of all - he cares! I first heard about him 10 years ago through another prominent Attorney here in town. At the time, I wanted legal representation from someone that I could relate to and they had to be a FIGHTER. I will attest Mr. Cobbin is both.
Over the years, I've gotten to know lots of Attorneys in town and no one else, in my opinion, has the level commitment and dedication to his clients that Kevin has. Yes, I would strongly recommend to anyone in need of solid legal advice or counsel.
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29 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired him for my husband. My husband had to tell him what to ask for. He barely return calls it seems like having a public defender. He only calls you a day or two before court you go in blind sided. I don't see the way he do people he can tolerate to look at his self in the mirror and it doesn't bother him. I don't recommend him he only cares about his freedom.
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16 Mar, 2019 by Joshua
We hired Mr. Kent and paid him $30,000 to handle an appeal for us. Mr. Kent did no useful legal work and left us high and dry.
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13 Dec, 2010 by M.l
Exceptional Attorney. Answered all my questions on a very timely basis. Divided the cost by type of service he was rendering.
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31 May, 2010 by Anonymous
I am a client. Mr. Kent has not responded to my letters or have I had any communication from him in approximately one and a half years. He has not come to see me but once. I do not know anything going on in my case.
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17 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
This so called lawyer was disinterested in my case from the start. She requested that the best way to contact her was through emails, yet she would take several days to respond to correspondence, she was slow to file simple paperwork, and she was not straightforward about the work that she was doing on my case. In addition, when I asked her a simple question about a filing error she became upset, loud, and hung up the phone without answering the question. Professionalism was not a part of her repertoire as this was not the only incident that she responded to with a bad attitude. I would think twice before hiring this lady.
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27 May, 2021 by Anonymous
This attorney will take your money and run. I did not hear from her for 2.5 months, then she called in the middle of my work day, 2 hours before court, to pressure me into taking a plea. She didn’t extend information to me that would have influenced my decision until right before I had to choose between going to trial or taking a plea. At that time she also informed me that I would have to secure other representation because quote “I know your financial situation”. This attorney did not fight for me, I would not recommend her. She is out for your money and once she has it, her work is done.
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22 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
He doesn't keep you informed. I couldn't afford to get rid of him for two years and my case lagged on and on. In those two years, he filed one motion... ONE! At the hearing, he objected to nothing, shook like a leaf, and stuttered like a scene out of My Cousin Vinny! This guy is not just lazy, he is incompetent.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Antony
Just waiting to collect, and he doesn't know to defend, he doesn't know anything about new regulations, in the courts, he will only defend himself by saying, the client is to blame, not recommendable.
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23 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Mark Miller was sloppy in his work and irresponsible. On several occasions he did not sufficiently research information or follow up on questionable information. He relied too heavily on an internal informant and did not consider or pursue potential conflicting information. While I believe he means well, he is not reliable if you need professional, thorough or responsible legal work.
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29 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Would not respond to repeated phone calls, did not review evidence, did not even interview a single witness. Showed up to court and sat on his hands. Absolutely life destroying.
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08 Jan, 2018 by Deborah
This law8is my son's and he is not helping him at all,he is trying to find something out of nothing, been going to court since last July and keep putting it off,for what you have nothing, i would not hire him if i had the money, but you have to have money to get some real help
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26 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
very rude and inconsiderate, doesn't seem to comprehend that when someone is asking a question it means that is how he can help them, it does not mean be nasty and keep asking how can i help you, forcing someone to repeat themself to the point where they wonder if he has any true sense.
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29 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer was not well informed and would make guesses about what he thought to be the law (differences according to county or distance between parties involved in litigation). Michael Edwards can be very disrespectful. His secretary on the other hand is very polite.
Michael Edwards said he has no feelings with regard to his clients involved in family law litigation, and it shows. He is not motivated, loses documents, and takes very little action.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
