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22 Aug, 2024 by Kiro samir
I called the office and they were so helpful, fast and professional.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Anton tony
Mr proetta is so helpful, patient and knowledgeable
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21 Aug, 2024 by Mark gamal
Mr Proetta was above and beyond, he answered all of my questions and was patient and helpful.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We used this firm to remove our son’s name from an article about his arrest after the charges were dismissed. They were successful within two months. They were straight forward and very responsive in all our communications. Highly recommend.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Billy defeo
Zena always goes above and beyond.
Thank you for all your hard work and help.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Gabriel acevedo
I wanna share my experience with katherine and her team they get 100 stars from me she got my record expunged i definitely recommend her
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23 May, 2021 by Kiara
I walked into John's office one day after finding out that my landlord was charging me more than the legal rent-controlled rent. John was incredibly well versed in landlord-tenant law, rent control in particular, and immediately filed a lawsuit for treble damages under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. We ultimately prevailed and I recovered more than three times the amount that I was overcharged, plus all of my attorney fees. I am very satisfied with John's high level of service, expertise, and professionalism.
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22 Mar, 2021 by Maura
I first contacted John when I found out that my landlord had overcharged me for my rent-controlled apartment. He was very well versed in rent control law, and advised me to sue under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. In less than one year, the landlord paid me three times the amount that I was overcharged and all of my attorney fees. I highly recommend John for his knowledge, professionalism, efficiency, and trustworthiness.
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12 Jul, 2019 by Anita
He "owned" my issue. He negotiated for me. He made sure I came out as ahead as I could. Would definitely use again. Very nice guy.
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26 Jul, 2023 by Anna
He is very loyal and excellent with his work he is doing his best and results are very positive.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Teona
Mr. Vincent is a very educated and hardworking person. You will never be just a "case" for him.. He will solve your problems while you are drinking your coffee :)) Highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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17 Jan, 2023 by Sajjad
Vincent is great attorney, very knowledgable and approachable and honest.
He handled a complicated case for me and I got desired results, I highly recomend Vincent !
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03 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I was facing some pretty serious charges, won't go into specifics on that but a good friend of mine who hired him for his cases recommended Mike Slukka, to which I considered and glad I did. He had my charges brought down to misdemeanors. Money well spent. Too bad he is retired..God bless him
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27 Jun, 2017 by Carlos r.
Mike Sluka was very sharp. I was in and out of my case in a flash thanks to his diligence attentiveness and thorough knowledge of the law to help my case. I highly recommend his service and expertise to anyone who needs it.
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09 Jun, 2016 by Ns
Michael Sluka was a great lawyer. Helped my son in case that could have put him in jail. My son now has a chance to start a whole new life. Micheal was on top of everything and really worked with my son's situation. Excellent lawyer, good listener and would highly recommend him.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Mary ellen
I went into a property sale blindly not knowing anyone in the area. My realtor (who I didn't know either) recommended Rifah. She was wonderful in solving problems in a calm, logical manner. Her knowledge of RE law in NJ is unbelievable and she was open to all of my questions and suggestions. She made no promises that she could not keep, including returning phone calls promptly and sticking to her quoted price. She is what every lawyer should strive for in their practice. I cant recommend her highly enough!!!
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06 Jul, 2014 by Marty & joe ann
Ms. Manasra is an amazing and extremely competent attorney. She has been with us since October, 2013 through a very long and frustrating legal process that lasted 6 months. She made sure everything was done in a very professional and competent manner. She also helped us through the process of not only selling our home but also purchasing another home. We very highly recommend her. She is also a very warm and kind person as well. We feel extremely fortunate to have her for our attorney. We highly recommend her. We feel very fortunate to have her for our attorney.
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10 Jan, 2013 by Anna
Rifah Manasra represented me in my divorce. She helped me understand the parts of the case and the different steps of the long process. I am very thankful for her help in understanding what was worth fighting for and what would probably just make the process longer and more expensive. I am thankful that she helped me try to save money in my legal fees. I think she is honest and caring. I definitely would recommend her.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Stephanie
I contacted Koles, Burke & Bustillo,L.L.P because the firm I was using prior had made so many mistakes on my case.
I couldn't get appointments with physical therapists, doctors or anything else - the firm wouldn't even get back to me when I called, this went on for so long and i had enough.
The week I hired Raoul Bustillo he was like a whirlwind. He took over my case and got things done right away! That week I was going to PT and to the right doctors. He had changed the whole case around in my favor. I was so stressed out before and when he took over I was able to relax and rely on my new attorney to work on my behalf and work for me instead of feeling like i was doing everything and someone else would get paid.
I am so happy and satisfied at the job that was done for me. What a wonderful firm! This is a firm that puts you at ease and fights for you.
I would refer Raoul Bustillo, and anyone else in this firm to everyone how needs it. I am even using this firm for a different case and fully confident with them.
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23 Nov, 2017 by Officer john a.
Raoul Bustillo is an outstanding person and an excellent Attorney. He worked on my workers compensation case. From the moment I met with him I knew he took my case seriously. He was totally invested in my case the entire time. He answered all my questions and was always just a phone call or text away.
He made sure I was compensated for my injuries. If you are looking for a top notch Attorney look no further. I am proud to recommend my Attorney, Raoul Bustillo.
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18 Nov, 2017 by Gallego erik and gallego raabe
Dear Raul Bustillo Thank you for representing me in my legal matter with Workers Compensation . It was a stressful situation but you were always there. You fought extremely hard for me and I am very pleased with the outcome. I received more than I expected. You are truly a blessing and I can't thank you enough.
By Gallego's
By Gallego's
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17 May, 2016 by Lydia
I purchased a home through an auction and I hired Mario to help me navigate through this process. His knowledge of the complexities of conveying a clear title to the property was extensive. He was very thorough, timely and persistent throughout the process. He kept me up to date on the progress and provided me with all options and possible outcomes. The final outcome was very positive. I was impressed by his professionalism. He is an extraordinary attorney that I would recommend highly!
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26 Jan, 2016 by Sarah
I got a ticket last year for almost running a police officer's squad car off of the road on my way to classes at Rutgers. I was looking at a billboard and didn't notice my car was drifting to the right and into the police car that was in my blind spot. I was pulled over shortly thereafter. Long story short, professor González was able to get my infraction changed, cutting the total fine to a fraction of what it was. As a result of the change there were no points added to my license and I additionally avoided paying a $250 surcharge typically paid in order to avoid points. He really is an amazing lawyer. I totally recommend him, especially if you are a student and low on cash.
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25 Jan, 2016 by Kevin
My wife and I are first time home buyers so having an excellent attorney to help us though the process is crucial and sensitive. Mario Gonzalez Jr. is attentive to our needs and genuinely patient throughout the process. There is no doubt in mind that I will hire him again and recommend him to my family/friends!
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09 Apr, 2023 by Thomas downes
My Name is Tom Downes and Jeff represented me in a long intense Court case . He worked hard for me and his Great Professionalism gave me a Great Outcome. I highly Recommend Jeffery Garrigan. No Doubt one of the State of New Jersey. Sincerely, Tom Downes
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26 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I would be the first to recommend Jeff as a lawyer if you want someone who goes above and beyond. He takes the time to make sure you understand things through every step of the case. Additionally, you can tell with how thorough he is that he has the experience necessary to help get you the best possible outcome. My family and I are extremely grateful and blessed to have had an amazing lawyer like Jeff represent us, and we truly believe that we would not have gotten the same outcome without Jeff’s hard work and dedication.
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09 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
if you ever wanted to feel at ease and understand the law when your mind is going in one million directions...Jeff Garrigan is your new lawyer...great reputation with his peers, judges, prosecuters, etc...great guy all around...Jeff knows the law...every stone turned over twice and if you ask him to turn it over again he does with a smile...very tactical...very informative...can be agressive when need arises...does not nickel and dime you either...very black and white with jeff he is never in the grey...jeff saved my life and my families life with little disruption...trust me meet jeff and you will see for yourselves what i am talking about...
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11 Jun, 2018 by Samantha
We couldn't be more please with Chirag's services. He made our experience buying our first home feel very easy. Anytime my husband and I had a question or needed advice he quickly answered us even while he was on vacation in India. Chirag's attentiveness to detail really helped us through the process. He diligently followed up with our realtor and the mortgage company to make sure everything was handled appropriately, and once our offer was accepted, he made the process easy to understand and made sure everything was handled appropriately the first time. We would recommend him to anyone!
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08 Nov, 2017 by Jasmine
Chirag is an amazing attorney. He saved my behind years ago and I am forever indebted to him! Very intelligent, detail oriented with the foresight to secure certain protections for his clients that others may overlook. He is a zealous advocate and he is my first choice when someone is seeking a NJ attorney.
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22 Aug, 2014 by Arturo
Over a half a year ago I was charged with a fourth degree felony due to simply being at the wrong place at the wrong time as I never looked for trouble my entire life. In my case, I found myself in a situation where trouble found me. Never having worked with a criminal defense attorney, I wanted to make sure I found one of New Jerseys most reputable. My search ended with the Tormey Law Firm and an opportunity to have attorney Chirag Mehta work on my case. Attorney Chirag was extremely dependable and showed up for all my court appearances on time and when he could not for good reason, which happened only once, he made sure I was in good hands with another one of his fellow attorneys. Attorney Chirag worked hard and was very knowledgeable and kept me informed throughout my case. Whenever I had a question or concern he was able to answer with confidence and provide me with reassurance. By the end of my case Attorney Mehta was able to drop my case down from a fourth degree felony to a boro ordinance, which is an extremely huge jump! Lastly, I would definitely recommend hiring Attorney Mehta and would not hesitate to hire him again, god forbid that life throws me another curve ball and I end up having to deal with Norwood Municipal Court bureaucrats ever again! Thank you attorney Mehta of the Tormey Law Firm!
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06 Jun, 2023 by Jennifer
Andy is a real shark, aggressive and smart -- much smarter than some dumb Municipal Prosecutor. I agree with everyone here he'll definitely get you out of whatever trouble you land yourself in even assault and harassment. All it took in my case was a blow job and a sob story. Try him for yourself!
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27 Feb, 2013 by Imran
Andy is an excellent attorney and a great guy! He has gotten many driving violations dismissed or amended to no points with minimum fines for me. Just last week he got a failure to yield at a stop sign ticket thrown out. He is very familiar with the municipal court system and has a great relationship with prosecutors and judges alike. Additionally, several years ago, he attained for me a very favorable deal on a DWI refusal with an accident and hit and run which is extremely difficult to do. I'm sure he has only honed his DWI skills more since then. I have known Andy for many years and have referred family and friends to him and all of them have been very happy with his services. He has never been late to court and is always sharp and prepared. His father, Arthur Abrams is also an excellent criminal defense attorney, and has done miracles for many people I know accused of very serious felony charges. Arthur Abrams is a living legend around town and is known for being a very aggressive litigator. You know what they say, "like father, like son." Anyone that knows his boutique firm can attest to the level of quality they provide. If you are in any kind of trouble, from serious felony charges to traffic violations, these are the guys you want to see. They can get you results that other lawyers simply can't. If you are looking for a stand-up attorney who will work diligently and zealously to get you the best possible outcome than look no further than Andy Abrams!
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25 Jan, 2013 by Sam
Excellent Attorney. Very well known in the Jersey City Municipal Court. If there is anything in Jersey City Courts. Seek his help and advice, you cannot go wrong. My case was dismissed.
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06 Aug, 2019 by Elijah t.
Mr.Miller & Associates were excellent with my case. I have an extensive background and had two different cases pending. We were able to get everything resolved to a probation sentence! Something everybody thought would be impossible. I’m going to call this law office for any future events.
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18 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Miller defended me in a criminal case where numerous defendants received prison sentences. He was able to get me Probation which compared to the 3 year sentences other defendants were getting is a blessing.
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30 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Miller is a Harvard Law School graduate who writes the criminal law book and got me a fantastic result.
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28 May, 2020 by Adam
I can’t say enough good about Mekhail and what he’s done for me and my family. Truly a great lawyer and an even better man.
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26 May, 2020 by Phillip
Meekha is the best. You can’t get any better then him. He closed 3 houses for me with an ease. Made it simple and guided me through it all. Highly recommend.
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26 May, 2020 by Omar
This lawyer was nothing short of amazing. I had a charge for a drug offense, the prosecutor offered me a deal but my lawyer knew I was in the right, he turned down the deal and ended up getting my case dismissed. I highly recommend Mekhail Sarofiem to be hired as your attorney.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Alice
I got my first moving violation ticket on a very busy 4th of July weekend. It was bumper to bumper traffic. The congestion was so bad a group of cars formed another lane. I only joined so I can make a left turn, away from the traffic. Unfortunately, a police officer stopped the group of cars that formed another lane. Forming another lane was illegal. I was so grateful for Attorney Abasolo to assist me. On the day I had to appear at court, the Judge granted a no moving violation with no points charged, as long as I pay the fee - just as Attorney Abasolo had advised me. I was relieved for Attorney Abasolo's helpful and professional solution to my ticket dilemma. Thank You, Attorney Abasolo.
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24 Apr, 2016 by Vanessa
I hired Mr. Abasolo's service for 2 evictions for non payment of rent. He was very dedicated and he managed to evict my tenants very quickly. He is very nice and will keep you posted at all times. Highly recommend him.
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16 Oct, 2020 by Joe
Kerollos is the best lawyer I have ever met! Not only does he put his clients first but he treated me like a brother and he made sure I got the justice that I deserved. If you're not working with Kerollos you're with the wrong guy. He's the best one out there and he's the only one I'm ever going to call when I need help, and so should you.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Kero Antoun is one of the best attorneys around. He took my case to trial and got an outright dismissal. When we were first appearing in court he wouldn’t even entertain a plea offer. I was really scared at first but he kept telling me to trust him. He had evidence disproving the state’s case and set the matter for trial. He put the cop on the stand and he couldn’t identify me as I was not the one driving the vehicle. His aggressive approach really works. I have referred all my family and friends to him. All similar outcomes. This guy is the real deal.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Jacquelyn
I have used Manasra and Manasra 3 times for closing on 2 homes and sell of one home. She is very knowledgable, detailed, organized, and provides fast turnaround in the review process. The most recent sale and closing was smoothest ever with no delays and I am now in my dream home! Thanks Charsymel for your diligent efforts!
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14 Jun, 2016 by Christopher
Charysmel is an excellent attorney. She helped me and my wife with our first home purchase. She made the transaction very smooth and less stressful. She even got us a nice credit from the seller at the closing. I highly recommend her and her firm.
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12 Jul, 2013 by Joan
Jude. Has. Handled. 3 cases. For me within.the last two years ; and. All 3 he has won.H e Is
Always. Well prepared and has always taken extra time to meet with me And Advise prior to each case . He's available for phone conferencing and.or. Office. Meetings. He is. Trustworthy honest and always. Fully engaged in the case at hand . He can handle avariety of law cases and should I have future legal. Issues; I. Will be sure to call him
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05 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Gay was an excellent to work with in order to resolve my speeding ticket. Excellent communication to keep me updated on process prior and during the court date.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kaleigh
Guy was great, we have used him twice. Once for the purchase of our condo and then the sale 6 years later. He was available and answered questions in great detail. Would def recommend!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Isaac
Guy was ready to help me when I had a last minute emergency. I really appreciate his professionalism and willingness to represent me for the best possible outcome. I will be staying in touch with him for the future.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Hugo luna
I personally recommend Michael Pastacaldi for his outstanding work on my very difficult case that no other attorney wanted to take on. He changed my life. I will forever be grateful.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Hugo luna
I personally recommend Michael Pastacaldi for his outstanding work on my very difficult case that no other attorney wanted to take on. He changed my life. I will forever be grateful.
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5.0
12 Reviews
4.8
36 Reviews
27 Aug, 2024 by Eddie mccaffrey
I had an excellent experience working with Laura. She was incredibly helpful, detail-oriented, and responsive throughout the entire process. Her expertise and attention to detail made me feel confident and well-informed at every step. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable real estate attorney.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Julie dalton
I recently sold my condo - my home for the past 34 years! Given it was so long since I had purchased my home, I had many questions and concerns about the process - I must say I had the absolutely best attorney representing me in Laura Fisher - she is professional, caring, patient and does the utmost to represent her clients - I highly recommend her if one is looking to buy or sell a property - her office staff were top notch as well - I could not have asked for better representation. I will always be grateful for her professional advice and expertise.
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17 May, 2024 by Nawrin ahmed-khaja
She was informative, patient, transparent and kept me up to date on the process. If you want hard working, knowledgeable and supportive lawyer then look no further than Laura M. Fisher.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
124 Reviews
19 Aug, 2024 by Nancy whitehurst
In handling my motorcycle accident case, Adrienne D. Edward and her team were outstanding. Their expertise and dedication guaranteed that I obtained equitable compensation for my injuries.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Cindy
Poor representation. Too much case load, unprepared . Not a fighter . Don't make the mistake I did . Keep moving
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31 May, 2024 by Chris porchiazzo
This man is God Sent!
A true experienced professional in the area of criminal law and defense.
He helped me out of a serious and complicated criminal matter with laser precision.
I watched him from start to finish work a miracle
You want this gentleman as your lawyer to fight your case and get your the best potential outcome for you and your family.
Walks the walk and talks the talk.
Danny keeps it real 💯
Promise you won't be disappointed
😁
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19 Aug, 2024 by Nancy whitehurst
In handling my motorcycle accident case, Adrienne D. Edward and her team were outstanding. Their expertise and dedication guaranteed that I obtained equitable compensation for my injuries.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Cindy
Poor representation. Too much case load, unprepared . Not a fighter . Don't make the mistake I did . Keep moving
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31 May, 2024 by Chris porchiazzo
This man is God Sent!
A true experienced professional in the area of criminal law and defense.
He helped me out of a serious and complicated criminal matter with laser precision.
I watched him from start to finish work a miracle
You want this gentleman as your lawyer to fight your case and get your the best potential outcome for you and your family.
Walks the walk and talks the talk.
Danny keeps it real 💯
Promise you won't be disappointed
😁
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Nancy whitehurst
In handling my motorcycle accident case, Adrienne D. Edward and her team were outstanding. Their expertise and dedication guaranteed that I obtained equitable compensation for my injuries.
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Cindy
Poor representation. Too much case load, unprepared . Not a fighter . Don't make the mistake I did . Keep moving
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Chris porchiazzo
This man is God Sent!
A true experienced professional in the area of criminal law and defense.
He helped me out of a serious and complicated criminal matter with laser precision.
I watched him from start to finish work a miracle
You want this gentleman as your lawyer to fight your case and get your the best potential outcome for you and your family.
Walks the walk and talks the talk.
Danny keeps it real 💯
Promise you won't be disappointed
😁
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Hugo luna
I personally recommend Michael Pastacaldi for his outstanding work on my very difficult case that no other attorney wanted to take on. He changed my life. I will forever be grateful.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Hugo luna
I personally recommend Michael Pastacaldi for his outstanding work on my very difficult case that no other attorney wanted to take on. He changed my life. I will forever be grateful.
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18 Feb, 2021 by Mark
If I could give Attorney Darren Kirton a rating hirer than 5 stars I would. The sale of my rental property in Newark NJ was an extremely arduous journey. Besides having to navigate the process during a pandemic, we were also facing a litany of concerns with the property itself. Without boring you with the blow by blow, suffice to say, Mr. Kirton was the best and only choice of captain to helm this ship. There were so many times that the deal appeared to be lost but somehow Mr. Kirton guided it safely back on course. If I had to do it all over again, I would definitely choose him. He's intelligent, reliable, very professional and extremely approachable. If you want results, I would highly recommend Attorney Darren Kirton.
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17 Dec, 2020 by John c miller
Darren was extremely professional efficient and responsive and made the transaction go seamless. I highly recommend him in all capcities.
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20 Jul, 2020 by Fritz
I worked with Mr. Kirton over the past few months as we worked on a complex condo sale that occurred during the COVID pandemic. This caused plenty of starts and stops but Mr. Kirton handled them very well and was able to push to the close. I would definitely work with Mr. Kirton again.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Iceman bling
14 Oct, 2024 by Gabe g
It was easy to understand
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14 Oct, 2024 by Aaron norris
14 Oct, 2024 by Iceman bling
14 Oct, 2024 by Gabe g
It was easy to understand
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14 Oct, 2024 by Aaron norris
20 Sep, 2024 by Salvatore scarpato jr.
Mr Grezlak was appointed to take over my cousins case in which he was falsely accused. My cousin was held in Hudson County Correctional Facility for a total of 1 1/2 years.
There was a cycle of 2 other attorneys prior to Mr Grezlak and as the saying goes "the 3rd time's a charm" It was about 3 months ago when Mr Grezlak went to bat for cousin and went far beyond expectation by beating the accusations and getting him back home where he belongs. He fought hard and never stopped fighting until the job was done as though he took the case personally and was defending a family member.
If you are in need of defense and looking for a true compassionate and hard working attorney, look no further than Mr. Grezlak.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Brand new c
The worst he’s money hungry don’t trust him
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02 Jul, 2024 by Shahonda pack
Joseph Szesko was an amazing attorney for my case. His professionalism was unmatched. He showed great composure, work ethic and most of all excellent representation. The office staff was always courteous and ready, willing, and able to assist in his absence. I am pleased with the outcome of my case and will definitely have him represent me again.
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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.
