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08 Oct, 2024 by Rodrigo
James is a great lawyer and a good person got my case dismissed with no issues you give him the time and he’ll show you what he can do in the court
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27 Sep, 2024 by Jose
Mr. Pailin really assisted me on this case throughout the whole process. I would recommend anyone who needs assistance would give him phone call. I would honestly reach out to him.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Kate lohan
Mr Palin went above and beyond for me. He truly cared and was beyond professional and charismatic. I would recommend Mr Palin beyond words with his authenticity and case law ! Probably one of the BEST and highly recommended! Thank you !
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17 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney McClain was an awesome attorney! She’s very knowledgeable and if she didn’t know something she would quickly research the answer or consult with her colleagues. She’s not afraid to fight for your rights and will confidently go up against anyone. She was very attentive and thorough when handling my divorce case. I would definitely recommend her!
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16 Apr, 2020 by James
Attorney McClain helped me get custody of my two small kids (3 & 5). Their Mom was making bad decisions and I felt my kids were being negatively affected. Their Mom told me I wouldn’t win custody. But Ms. McClain fought hard for me and my kids. The Judge gave me custody and ordered Mom to do somethings to get her life together. Now, I rest a lot easier knowing my babies are safe. Thank you Ms. McClain. I could not have won without your help!
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16 Apr, 2020 by Francessca montez
Ms. McClain handled my divorced very professionally. It was quick and easy and she granted everything i asked of her. I would highly recommend her.
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08 Aug, 2019 by Barb
Mr. McDaniel was an excellent choice to handle my daughter’s speeding ticket. The situation was overwhelming (multiple violations plus no proof of insurance). Mr. McDaniel was highly engaged with us throughout the entire process. He showed a willingness to have every detail taken care of, sharing information with us along the way. He went out of his way to have conversations with the prosecutor, the judge and even the court clerks. He made sure we were informed and making the right choices to result in the best possible outcome. Even after the fact he confirmed with the court that the case was truly dismissed, and emailed the proof to us, saving us another trip down to the courthouse. Having him as our attorney was the most pleasant experience I’ve had in dealing with the law, and I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. McDaniel.
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26 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
He was HIGHLY motivated to seek the information we needed to make a sound choice even though he knew he would not be able to represent us in court as it was not an area he offered services for. Truly a hard worker and saved us a defeat by digging for the proper information. Highly recommend! Any lawyer who can do that in a few hrs can do wonders in a court room setting.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Rene ramirez
Very helpful and flexible !!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Martha rocha
Gracias a todo el equipo de KGS por la atención e información.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Lisa parker
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11 Sep, 2024 by Rene ramirez
Very helpful and flexible !!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Martha rocha
Gracias a todo el equipo de KGS por la atención e información.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Lisa parker
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11 Sep, 2024 by Rene ramirez
Very helpful and flexible !!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Martha rocha
Gracias a todo el equipo de KGS por la atención e información.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Lisa parker
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12 Sep, 2024 by Amber brown
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23 Aug, 2024 by Donnie charleston
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23 Aug, 2024 by G vasquez
Excellence is the word that describes the service they provide… they keep you informed all the time and also they give you hope. I will recommend them. Thank you.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Amber brown
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23 Aug, 2024 by Donnie charleston
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23 Aug, 2024 by G vasquez
Excellence is the word that describes the service they provide… they keep you informed all the time and also they give you hope. I will recommend them. Thank you.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Stephen das
Mandy Miller is a great lawyer. She is very knowledgeable in her field of defense. I personally noticed that peers in her industry respect her and often look to her for advice. I knew with her representing me I was in good hands. She is practical, attentive and prompt in getting things done. I highly recommend Mandy to anyone looking for legal representation with a serious charge or one to lesser degree . She will give it all she has to help you achieve the best possible result!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Samuel mustapha
Mandy Miller is an attorney I will recommend to anyone that has a criminal case. she knows what to do and when to act on your case. She fought for my DWI case dismissed within a short time. I thank you for your service Mandy.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Roscoe p
Mandy Miller is great to work with. Professional, confident and knowledgeable of the law and the organization and process of Harris County courts. My case was dismissed, I highly recommend her.
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31 Jul, 2013 by Cs
On January 7, 2010 I received a phone call from a federal agent who advised me I was being investigated, this was my first time in trouble with the United States government. Rather than hiding under the sheets of my bed, I decided to hire the best legal representation I could find to prepare my defense and fight my case. After interviewing some of the "best" and the "top rated" attorneys in the Los Angeles area, I decided on hiring Douglas McNabb as my defense counsel. Trust me, whatever your particular case may be I can assure you that federal laws are complex, sometimes changing and often very confusing to the average person. I knew I needed an experienced attorney who not only knew and understood these complex laws, but most importantly an attorney who would fight for my rights and freedom. Rather than sharing the impressive credentials Douglas McNabb "Doug" has, I would rather like to share with you that as my attorney, Doug was always committed to me on a personal level. Unlike many attorneys, Doug actually treated me as someone who really cared about what happened to me as his client. Doug commanded a great deal of respect from the court and the AUSA which ultimately lead to amazing results in my case. So no matter what type of crime you may be charged with I highly recommend Douglas McNabb and his experienced staff who will fight for you as hard as he fought for me.
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11 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I am a successful corporate attorney with a Fortune 100 company and presently enjoy a wonderful life. I am absolutely convinced I owe much of where I am today to a decision 17 years ago to hire Douglas McNabb. In 1996 I was contacted by the FBI concerning an investigation of my former employer for serious federal crimes. It became quickly obvious that my former employer's defense strategy was to divert blame of the matter onto me and other former employees (mostly me). I found myself overwhelmed by a situation where I was caught between the government and a very powerful corporation. The investigation and trial lasted a total of 6 years. During the course of that time, Doug was at my side every step of the way and was the one person I thought that gave me a chance. It was a very stressful 6-years and nothing I wish for anyone to live through; but the end result were indictments issued to 4 high profile executives and the highest criminal penalty of its kind paid by the company. Because of Doug's excellent relationships with the DOJ attorneys and his knowledge of federal criminal law and the process of federal criminal investigations, he enabled me to walk away from the situation a much wiser person without an indictment or record that would tarnish my professional career. I am obviously grateful for Doug's help during this very difficult time and still believe the call to his firm was one of the best decisions I ever made.
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21 Jun, 2013 by S.v.
I am a successful corporate attorney with a Fortune 100 company and presently enjoy a wonderful life. I am absolutely convinced I owe much of where I am today to a decision 17 years ago to hire Douglas McNabb. In 1996 I was contacted by the FBI concerning an investigation of my former employer for serious federal crimes. It became quickly obvious that my former employer's defense strategy was to divert blame of the matter onto me and other former employees (mostly me). I found myself overwhelmed by a situation where I was caught between the government and a very powerful corporation. The investigation and trial lasted a total of 6 years. During the course of that time, Doug was at my side every step of the way and was the one person I thought that gave me a chance. It was a very stressful 6-years and nothing I wish for anyone to live through; but the end result were indictments issued to 4 high profile executives and the highest criminal penalty of its kind paid by the company. Because of Doug's excellent relationships with the DOJ attorneys and his knowledge of federal criminal law and the process of federal criminal investigations, he enabled me to walk away from the situation a much wiser person without an indictment or record that would tarnish my professional career. I am obviously grateful for Doug's help during this very difficult time and still believe the call to his firm was one of the best decisions I ever made.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Sandrea mata
I was referred to Donati Brashear for legal advice when I needed to file for divorce. Mr John Patton was our attorney. Our case was resolved successfully . I must commend Ms Leidy Pecina, our paralegal, for the excellent personal attention to our case. Leidy was very professional, responsive, and compassionate during the process. I can recommend their services for divorce filings.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Zowa powa
Keith is handling my mother's estate and has prolonged it over 8 years making the grieving process that much harder. The probate case is STILL open, and all though I am an heir and named beneficiary in the will, he REFUSES to release my funds to me. I am owed close to $25,000 and Keith has taken more than $10,000 for his "services" or lack there of. He has been condescending and out right rude to me through out the process. I have a disability and he has only taken advantage of that. Stay away from this law firm at all costs!!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Jessica farver
Very well spoken great price and his consultation was very helpful. I highly recommend it.
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01 Dec, 2016 by Diana
Jeff, is a great lawyer, he handle a ticket for my son and did a wonderful job. He always keep me informed on what was happening and time frames. I highly recommend Jeff and his firm they were all very helpful.
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20 Aug, 2012 by Oc
I would never recommend this lawyer or his firm. This is why people hate lawyers and do not trust them. This guy switched me to his incompetent staff lawyer when I was very clear that I was hiring him to defend me- I recorded all our conversations. I provided him with a lot of data in my case and none was reviewed nor used. I asked for police reports / discovery on my soon to be ex plus other data -which they never got – made phone calls and emails that were never returned. The assistant was just plan incompetent. I am now trying to get my retainer refund and find an attorney that can suit this firm for the pathetic manner in which they handled my case. Last minute – lack of attention - lack of preparation and they request me to produce financial tax returns and fill out a cash /balance sheet 5 minutes before court. I had sent them a detail email with potential line of questioning for cross examination and none of it was use – like they didn’t even bother to read my email. I lost the use of my house – Now I have to pay the mortgage while other people live in it including my soon to be ex- 5 kids all over 18 and her paramour – Totally – totally the most worst lawyers I have ever dealt with.
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06 Jul, 2010 by Kitty
omg i was a last straw and he was SO helpful. I cant tell you. He was so very kind and full of information. I wish that he was here in San Antonio.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Mary estes
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26 May, 2022 by Roberto alvarez
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27 May, 2021 by Sonja prewett
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13 Jul, 2021 by Jessy
Es un abogado irresponsable para obtener el dinero que cobra por un caso , que dice que tiene solución, que proveera pruevas creibles para que tenga una aceptación favorable , lo cual es falso Exigimos que la Barra de abogados preste atenciòn de tanto abuso de este abogado incopetente ,
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08 Feb, 2021 by Kenia
Michael Rojas un abogado irresponsable y mentiroso, llebo casi 2 años con mi caso , no contestas llamadas ni mensajes y cuando lo hace es para darme excusas, mi aplicación es obvio que no la a mandado porque en 2 Años no e recibido carta de immigration haciendo saber que mi caso está en proseso ósea no e recibido nada, cuando le pregunto a él solo me dice que le de tiempo y me pide otravez mi información para según el revisar mi caso , me promete que me llama el día siguiente o en 48 horas y yo le doy más tiempo del que me pide y jamás me llama hasta que yo lo sigo llamando todos los días, le entregamos dinero y no me lo quiere regresar , realmente pensamos que era una persona honesta pero no lo es, no busquen su servicio por favor , solo les va rrobar su dinero como lo hizo con nosotros ! Pero Dios mira todas las injusticias que el hace con las personas , que trabajamos duro para pagarle a esta persona Rojas el mal serivicio y abogado que es , no es justo que mienta y no le de importancia asus clientes !
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28 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We were doing well until about 1 year and a half ago. Immigration case was moving fast and getting approved. He had good service and paralegals at first that explained everything well but then I started noticing him changing staff time after time. I would have to work with someone new and different each time until he said he got rid of all his staff for noncompliance. Then began dealing with him directly just to find him asking me for money upfront when I had already paid almost everything we agreed to but he said since time had past he needed more money but time passed because they didn’t do anything. Either way I payed him and have submitted to him the paperwork requested by immigration about four times now just to find he never submitted to immigration because I looked up my own case. I messaged him on that and for months he has not responded and when he used to respond it was just to give me excuses. No answer now.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I would not recommend this lawyer to anyone. He did not represent me well and i wish i had time to get another lawyer before we had court.
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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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