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10 Dec, 2018 by Juan salinas
Mr. Landeros has been very helpful in helping me with my accident and settlement. Mr. Landeros successfully defended my case with appeals and negotiated with all involved parties in a professional and timely manner, to obtain a fair settlement. I thank him for his hard work and honesty. I hope I never have another accident again but if i do Mr. Landeros would be the Attorney to call.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Dora odom
I felt really comfortable with this office. Mr Carrillo and his assistant provided me with valuable information over the phone. I will definitely pay them a visit when I am in town.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Techsurge
Very helpful staff and lawyers!
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08 Dec, 2020 by Leonardo arredondo
10 Mar, 2023 by Dora odom
I felt really comfortable with this office. Mr Carrillo and his assistant provided me with valuable information over the phone. I will definitely pay them a visit when I am in town.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Techsurge
Very helpful staff and lawyers!
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08 Dec, 2020 by Leonardo arredondo
29 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Terrible communication, did not return calls or messages and would not lay out process and expected timelines to give us an idea of what to expect.
I fired him. Can not get him to return the unused portion of the retainer and there should be plenty because he did nothing.
STAY AWAY!
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10 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Best attorney I could have picked. I was always taken care of and everything was done in a timely matter. Any doubt I had I just called/texted his office and got help as soon as they were able to help. He is very focused and serious about his work.
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20 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Horrible attorney! Luckily I was able to get my money back. I called almost everyday and did not get help. My call was ignored so many times by the secretary when I walked in for my refund she was quick answering the phone. If you want someone professional and worth the money you're willing to spend go else where. You'll thank me later
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16 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired Zimmerman law firm for my custody case. The first person i spoke to was the office assistant. Explained my case and requested fees. She said Ms Zimmerman was out of town but that she would call her and get back to me soon. She called back stating that could take my case and quoted a fee. It seemed low so i asked what the payments would be. The assistant stated that was the full fee but that if the case turned or more complicate or went of a long time then anticipate i might be asked for then. I paid the fee that day.
I then didnt hear from anyone for always 2 weeks. I was in a panic not knowing if my answer had even been sent to the court. It was dur beginning of Nov. Our first phone appt was set for an evening but ms Zimmerman never called. When i called the office she stated she had forgot and would call me that even. We went over everything and i was advised to start working on my discovery questions.
There was minimal contact between ms Zimmerman and after that. Most correspondence was with the assistant.
I needed to speak directly to ms Zimmerman around Jan and made a few requests over a few days. After about a week she emailed me stating she would not continue to work on my case till i brought my accout current. Stating i had missed 2 monthly payments. What was due was not in the email and since i had never received bill and thought i had paid the entire fee upftont i was cometely confused.
I sent numerous emails, texts, phones and voicemails eventually begging someone to reply to me and jusy tell me how i could get it current. I actually had to contact another attorney to find out what my rights were. She advised me on what to say and do. Once i did that i finally received a response and owe quite a bit more. I had to pay it, we were months into my case.
The process continued on doing discovies ect. In Feb the assistant notifies me of my court date that is set in 36 hrs. Im completely surprised. Hours of calls and text message and i have found out they knew about the court date since Dec. Theyre place was to postpone because they weren't prepared but had learned at the last minute that couldnt happen. My options were court unprepared, enter into an amicus agree that the other side was proposing or fire my attorney and try to start over. Really the only option was the amicus which i was adamantly against. Mr zimmerman called begged me to give them the opportunity to fix everything. They were even going to cover half the amicus costs and let me pay out the rest. They would send paymeny immediately. They said its best to be first one payed.
After the amicus was assigned i didnt talk to my lawyers again. Not until the amicus never reveived payment and came after me 2 months later. My lawfirm mailed an important, time sensitive payment regular mail and never followed up to make sure payment was received. They have nothing to show proof of that first check being sent in Feb.
I have ultimately lost this custody case. My lawyers couldnt be reached the entire day the recommendations came out.
The sent me a detailed explanation of why i lost why i verified thru the amicus was completely false.
And now its been 5 days since i asked for some kind of billing stated on case and still have not received it. Child custody is just too important to deal these kind of issues. Beware of this lawfirm
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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:
-
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.
