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Emily Jean Fretwell, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 11 reviews
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44,31
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2023 by Lance kemp
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Emily helped me with my divorce in a professional and timely matter. It was a relief to have her as my attorney. She was able to get my issues resolved in a timely matter which made the whole situation much more easy to go through.
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20 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Emily has been my lawyer for a ramge of different legal matters. Her knowledge in the judicial arena makes her an excellent choice no matter what your needs may be. Emily is the greatest advocate for her clients. She responds promptly, takes YOUR best interest to heart, and is dependable unlike any other. I am in awe of her intelligence, tenacity and class. Emily is the best judicial asset you can invest in with your legal matters.
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TJ Kirsch, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Thank you!
TJ handled my case impeccably! He is so personable and was easy to get in touch with directly. He would explain the details of my case and talk with me as long as I wanted. I was terrified at facing a (non-violent) felony after some sketchy business from the sheriffs in a neighboring county - TJ reassured me that we had a strong case and even the worst outcome would likely end up the same taking the plea bargain. In a hearing I got to see TJ shine and had the arresting officer squirming during cross-examination, especially after the officer basically committed perjury in front of all of us. TJ's courtroom presence is a force to be reckoned with - he knows his case law and will defend your rights as well as any lawyer is capable of. He was able to get the evidence in my case suppressed, thereby causing my case to be dismissed. I can't thank him enough for saving me from years of stress and hardship. HIGHLY recommend hiring him for your defense! THANK YOU!!
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Ryan Patrick Waters, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2023 by Rahul v
"Ryan is an exceptional lawyer who goes above and beyond. His attention to detail, timely execution, and motivational approach set him apart. He's truly influential in achieving the best outcomes for his clients.He truly loves helping people and want his clients future to be bright "
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08 Jul, 2019 by Mary
Ryan helped me with a life changing situation. I was selling my business of 30 years and needed advice and guidance. I received both with a smooth conclusion.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Nicole
Ryan Waters made my misdemeanor expungement go more smoothly than I thought possible. His communication to me as to the happenings of my case was timely and thorough. I felt represented and informed during the proceedings, a novel courtroom experience for me and well worth his very reasonable attorney fee. If I ever need legal counsel again, I'm calling Ryan Waters.
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M. Todd Miller, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 144 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.5
11 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
133 Reviews
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22 Jan, 2025 by First name last name
Cannot be trusted.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Lora fannon
Todd and Tamala are great to work with, very professional. Had great communication via phone an email. Would recommend for your legal needs.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Lynn stevenson
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Andrew Joseph Sartorius, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
He will work with you on payment and also keep you updated with your case he is dependable and take his time to study your case geat lawyer
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Erin Kathleen Kirsch, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 65 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
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4.8
65 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Oct, 2024 by Chris abbett
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star star star star star
11 Sep, 2024 by Justin
Excellent legal work! Friendly. Non judgemental. Definitely recommend Kirsch & Kirsch!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Keeth strange
TJ is great to work with I wouldn’t use anyone else, very down to earth, highly recommended.
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Scott Allen Hamblin, experienced Adoption, Car Accident attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 127 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,56
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
107 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2025 by Teresa farley
Mr Hamlin is one of the best attorneys we have ever had the privilege to use. He is courteous and to the point. I would recommend him to anyone and we will continue to use his services.
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24 Nov, 2024 by Anna gopez
Scott Hamblin is simply put - the best! Scott deserves 10 Stars! He has all the qualities a person could ask for with legal representation and more. I even had a lawyer from another county tell me, Mr. Hamblin is an excellent lawyer. That remark alone told me how respected he is, by his peers. He's highly professional, extremely knowledgeable, respectful and courteous, does his due diligence to understand and know his case, has excellent communication skills with his staff and client. His performance in the court room arena was exciting to watch. Dynamic! I knew when I walked into his office, it was different. Some offices are "'eh, another person". Not the case with Mr. Hamblin. I never felt left out of the case, going back to communication. His legal staff, is also to be commended for their excellence and knowledge with assistance throughout the case. All my questions were important to the whole "team", not brushed off. I can't say enough about Mr. Hamblin, other than if you need a most excellent lawyer, choose him.
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20 Oct, 2024 by Fred weddington sr
Scott Hamblin is the best Lawyer that I have ever met, He really cares about his Clients and does not sugar coat anything. He works very hard to help his Clients, and knows the Law very well and he will work with you on your tab if he can.and the staff there are very helpful too.I would recommend Scott and that Law firm to anyone that needs a Lawyer, They are the Best. And you get what you pay for so give them a call.
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Gaylin Rich Carver, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 15 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,19
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
14 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Dec, 2024 by Jason schroeder
I would also recommend anyone else except this place, the secretary is grest, but, Sarah was my first divorce council and led me down a wrong path which ended up costing me hundreds of thousands over the life of my kids. My advice is Don't just agree and go with something if your not comfortable with it despite what your council says, this is your life not theirs. These are your kids not theirs and as they're gonna tell you they do this everyday with a different person, they don't care about you or your kids, they want the money. I now see my kids less than my wife and do not get to claim them for taxes anytime because of this fact and Sarah Michael advised me to just go with it.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth herrera
Experiencing my divorce, I couldn’t have been more grateful for Attorney Sara Michael. Her no-nonsense approach and extensive legal knowledge were precisely what I needed. Despite her occasional intimidating demeanor, it’s this fierceness that truly sets her apart. Like a rabid dog in the courtroom, she fought tirelessly for me. If you’re confronting family law challenges, Sara is undeniably the legal powerhouse you want in your corner. And here’s the added bonus, behind that formidable advocate is an incredibly kind and empathetic professional, making the journey through tough times more manageable.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Carlton flowers
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Daniel Joseph Dodson, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 15 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,57
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.5
15 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Aug, 2024 by Ryan
Mr. Dodson is a master of his craft. He is very professional and is straight to the point. I am forever grateful for his help.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
We hired this attorney to represent my son. Mr. Dodson was not available to update my family, nor my incarcerated son. He ignored my emails spoke very sparsely , maybe a few times to me and other son, that was putting up an enormous amount of money. We had no idea what he spent it on. My incarcerated son has just been literally in limbo and has had a mental breakdown.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Cynthia
We hired this attorney to represent my son. Mr. Dodson was not available to update my family, nor my incarcerated son. He ignored my emails spoke very sparsely , maybe 2 times to me and other son, that was putting up an enormous amount of money. We had no idea what he spent it on. My incarcerated son has just been literally in limbo and has had a mental breakdown. After a yr we asked him to pls send some of my son's money back and we would hv to get someone else. He sent 2/3 of the money back but all the pain and mental agony we went through was and is unrelenting. No, I do not recommend this attorney...we do not hv money to help my son and pray for God's mercy
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Joshua Raymond Schrimpf, experienced Criminal Defense, Probate attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 22 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,95
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
22 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2023 by David taylor
Phone number doesn't work and they don't call for scheduled phone appointments. Just talked to this joke of a lawyer yesterday Nov 9th, 2023 and wants to blame everything on everyone else and boohoo about my review. If you're Liberal hire this guy and throw your money away. If you're a smart conservative individual, I would recommend you not use this law firm.
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28 Feb, 2023 by Rachael dunn
Google Maps
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28 Feb, 2023 by Allyssa williams
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Paul Trees Graham, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 10 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,65
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
10 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2021 by Carolyn
This man helped to change my life. It took 2 years, but I fought well over 10 years in Illinois. He knows how to get things done and I appreciate that. He will surprise you.
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04 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired this attorney to appeal divorice case, were out side parties properties were brought in, judicial misconduct was ramped and Paul flat out refuse to list in appeal when it was documented and signed notarized statements were available and witness that it was Not my property ordered sold... This guy is clue less..
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04 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Paul has worked in various issues for me ranging from consultation and assistance with social security, a motor vehicle claim where the other party lacked auto insurance and was driving with a suspended license, health insurance coverage and claims for treatment authorization and a case where Paul was consulted regarding employment. Paul has always acted swiftly and efficiently, explaining to me what is possible and best given various legal matters. He is also very good at referring to other attorneys as needed for consultation or assistance on my cases.
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Luke North, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 15 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,40
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
15 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Misti byrd
I would definitely recommend these people! They are the BEST, very friendly, understanding and not only did they do an amazing job they are now our friends as well! Will never seek another lawyer again.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Leah harris
Don't hire this firm! They will get paid even if you don't!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Shirley westbrook
Nimrod is great at what he does. He treated me with respect, listened to my case and worked to resolve it as quickly as he could. I wish I could say the same for his co-counsel, Luke North. Luke single-handedly, wrecked my case in one fell swoop by referring to my settlement as back pay to the opposing counsel. To this day, I have not recovered half of my settlement, unfortunately it was taxed as a paycheck. Even worse, back pay is taxed at a higher tax rate than a regular paycheck. The resolution to this, was something I couldn’t afford, so I feel cheated. This could’ve been avoided so many ways. I’m considering whether to take Luke to small claims court. If you hire Nimrod, keep Luke away from your case.
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Jessica Marie Christiansen, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 18 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,79
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
18 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Nov, 2021 by Jamie king
Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2021 by Chris mulder
Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2020 by Heather hunger
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Christopher Ryan Hayes, experienced Criminal Defense, Federal Crime attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 17 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,63
star star star star star
3.8/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
3.6
14 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2024 by Andy besselman
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star star star star star
07 Apr, 2023 by David watson
Very reliable attorneys
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16 Mar, 2023 by Christina brauner
Wayne Jordan was an incredible attorney! From the initial consultation, to handling all of the case details and keeping me informed, he did a wonderful job. He handled everything with professionalism, and it was clear he was very knowledgable surrounding all aspects of the law. I appreciated having someone to walk me through the process and would recommend him to anyone needing representation! Even though I asked a thousand questions, he always took the time to explain things to me in clear language and during such a stressful time, I really appreciated it.
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Arturo Alberto Hernandez III, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 4 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,33
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
26 May, 2017 by Bonnie
I hired Mr. Hernandez to help me with a parenting plan so I could get a fair child support and custody arrangement. I had no lawyer for my divorce and was eager to have support. I paid a retainer in SEPTEMBER got one confusing message in October and then NOTHING!!. I too have spent months trying to reach him. Even drove to his office to find a real estate sign and a locked building full of boxes. His number is disconnected. Now I have no money and no advocate. Worst choice ever and for me that is saying something!!
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09 May, 2017 by Latasha
I hired Arturo Hernandez less than a year ago as our immigration lawyer. I'll keep this simple and to the point. The last 6 months have been focused on just trying to get in contact with him. Not one call back. Not one email. I paid him; my very life altering situation he was hired for; unchanged. No itemized bill upon written request. Non existent communication, empty promises, and lies are what he felt was appropriate for me and I'm left with the mess of significant money loss and broken hearts throughout our family. What he has done or lack thereof should be illegal if it isn't already. I was impressed upon first meeting him; what I would give to go back and not make that huge mistake.
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15 Jun, 2015 by Maria
I had a son who was charged with a drug case, which led to a parole violation. Art worked hard to keep him out of jail. Convinced everyone but the probation officer that he should be release. The parole board agreed and let him out. The prosecutor then tried to give him 13 years on the drug case. Art got him probation and is on drug court. He has been clean for over a year now and is a star in the drug court program. Art never let down that he was fighting for our son. He fought against the probation office, the prosecutor and the court. Art was honest and didn't lie to us about what might happen. Art is the best attorney our son has ever had. We know we can trust him
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Jeffrey Scott Stacey, experienced Appeals, Bankruptcy attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
This person represented me on an ex parte matter. Normally a very easy case to win but this guy blew it.
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Shane Lee Farrow, experienced Criminal Defense, Litigation attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This attorney is a worthless piece of cow dung. He showed up to trial with only a pad of paper and pencil. He failed to call witnesses before trial to interview them. He didn't subpoena them. He didn't hire experts and his cross examination was crap. I as a non-attorney could've done better. DON'T HIRE HIM HE IS WORTHLESS
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Goldie Lugene Tompkins, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Samuel Edward Trapp, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Morgan Daniel Ditch, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jason Owen Barnes, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Bryan Duane Lade, experienced Child Support, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Timothy T. Stewart, experienced Criminal Defense, Litigation attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Rob Trowbridge, experienced Criminal Defense, Insurance attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Randall M. England, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Christopher Channing Haxton, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Steven Carroll Reed, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Keith D. Halcomb, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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David Samuel Durbin, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  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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