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5.0
22 Reviews
5.0
11 Reviews
14 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Peter Francis Locona was able to do something that several other lawyers weren’t able to-get my driving record cleared. I was consulting with different lawyers to see who could help me. Before my scheduled consultation with Mr. Francis Locona, I had given up hope that my case could be won based off what these lawyers were telling me. I decided to contact Mr. Francis Locona and cancel our upcoming consultation. Mr. Francis Locona demonstrated genuine care and compassion by contacting me back, empathically listening to my case, and providing superb legal advice. We developed a plan that restored my hope and resulted in me meeting my goal of cleaning up my driving record. What truly amazed me was that Mr. Francis Locona helped me and didn’t charge me anything because he knew my case could be resolved without having a lawyer represent me. I stand by the title of my review because I talked to SEVERAL lawyers and objectively Peter Francis Locona was the best. Not because he helped me win my case, which yes was very important, but because he restored my hope that there are good people in this world willing to help out even when they know they won’t receive anything in return. Contacting Mr. Francis Locona will be the best decision you make for getting your case resolved.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Sheyda
I am very thankful and grateful for my experience with Mr. Peter Iocona throughout what was one of the hardest, scariest, and stressful experiences I have had -- this was my first legal court case ever and had no understanding of many of the matters, but Peter was able to help me throughout the entire experience. He worked with both myself and my family to ease our stress and burdens and worked hard for me to thankfully return to back to my regular life, and for that I am forever thankful for Peter and his team and their work.
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17 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
When my wife and I hired Peter to defend our adult son in his second DUI case we braced ourselves for a difficult outcome, specifically more jail time. He was honest about the possibilities of that bad outcome and how important our son's behavior would be in obtaining a better result. The case took almost two years to complete because it happened in the midst of the Covid Pandemic when the courts were often dark, but our son did not go to jail. He had to wear an ankle monitor for 60 days under house arrest with an 18 month probationary period which exceeded all of our hopes.
Peter knows the law, but also is highly trusted by the judges, prosecutors and probation officers because of his honesty and integrity. This played a major role in getting our son fair treatment in the justice system. More importantly, our son has been sober for over two years, is setup to return to his college studies and has a job!
Thank you Peter from two grateful parents!
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5.0
9 Reviews
5.0
18 Reviews
09 Jul, 2024 by Jordan zerebny
Christine helped me out wildly!
Would recommend her to anyone who needs legal advice
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24 Jun, 2024 by Erika garcia
Christine is the best criminal justice attorney I have ever worked with. From our first meeting, she explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings. She always got back to me quickly and made it a seamless operation, especially as we were facing time constraints. I highly recommend her service for fair representation!
If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable attorney at a great price, then go to Christine Martin.
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16 May, 2024 by Kingsley forrester
I've worked with Christina on both personally for my friends and family as well as professionally. She has always been knowledgable, courteous, and a fierce advocate for her clients. Highly recommend using her for any criminal cases.
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5.0
9 Reviews
5.0
11 Reviews
13 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Ken is very intelligent, and personable. He has a genuine personality, and all the skills to give you the best outcome for your case. I was in some big trouble, my future job opportunities and potential relationships would have really suffered if I didn't have Ken to help me. He was able to get my serious charge dropped, and I don't have to worry about my record anymore. I'd highly recommend him to anyone in a tough spot, looking for big help. Ken is talented, hard-working, and smart. Give him a call!!!
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16 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
i recently had the privilege of working with Ken. he was there throughout every step of the case. he offered good advice. his professionalism and expertise was very evident. thank you so much Ken for your support throughout this journey.
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17 Aug, 2022 by Sheila
Kenneth Norelli was upfront and honest with me about my case. He kept me in the loop and didn't pull any punches with me. This is what I was looking for. I figured if the attorney I chose wasn't a sugar coater then that was who I wanted and that's what I got!! I would have never been able to close my case without this guy... Like I said he is the hardest working attorney in OC. What seemed would be impossible to achieve, he pursued and was able to clear EVERYTHING involved. When I read the final document, he sent me, all saw was DISMISSED, DISMISSED, DISMISSED, DISMISSED!!!! I can't tell you how proud he should feel for this HUGE undertaking and accomplishment. You gave me my life back. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
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05 Oct, 2023 by Rebekah
Alan is my saving grace! I received a dreaded letter from the board of nursing that my license was being investigated. The worst letter anyone who has a license can receive. I was so scared and I knew that my livelihood was literally on the line. I contacted Alan who I found online. When I sent a message to him, it was late at night, he contacted me that same night. I was shocked that I would get such a prompt response. Alan’s expertise and familiarity with the board of nursing helped immensely to prepare for what was to come. Going through the process of being investigated by the board of nursing took such a huge emotional toll on me and Alan was kind enough to tolerate the emotional roller coaster I was on. He thoroughly prepped me for that dreaded day of sitting in front of an investigator and of course was there with me in my most vulnerable moments. I am beyond thrilled to say, I received a letter from the BON that my case was closed. No limitation’s were placed on my license whatsoever. I am forever indebted to Alan and would absolutely recommend him to anyone who is in need of representation.
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16 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Couldn’t ask for a better attorney to represent my son, he did a great job and would rehire him to represent any family member….very informative and very knowledgeable in his field…
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14 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I couldn’t be more pleased with my experience with Alan. When I got my DUI I thought my dreams of going to nursing school and becoming an RN were over. Alan has made this dream a reality and I cannot thank him enough. He was professional, organized, and thorough throughout my entire case. He made himself available anytime I had a question and was always so informative. I am so grateful and would highly recommend him!!
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13 Aug, 2023 by Jr
Where do I begin? This review should have happened a while ago.
Finding Mr. Meyer: Attorney Aaron Meyer was had to find. There are so many people out there that claim to be professional and good at their profession. Aaron didn’t stand out to me, simply because I knew nothing of how to gauge the ability of an attorney. However, with every round of choosing he remained at the top.
Initial Interaction: I explained my case and he knew exactly what to do. He wanted to attack it head on, before the case was referred. I didn’t listen and let the time slip away. Months later, the case was referred. I found myself back at his door… knocking.
He answered my call and “shook his finger at me”. It was well deserved. He then pushed that right under the bridge and began his work. The case would serious, and he treated it as such. Aaron turned on the turbos. He knew that time was not on our side.
Hiring Mr. Meyer: Mr. Meyer charged me an amount that was fair for the work that he did. Once we entered the 32 hearing, Mr. Meyer took the stage. He changed the authority of everyone. He made sure that they didn’t treat my freedom as a second thought. He also made them look at their methods of investigations, chain of custody, and how they viewed cases (not just mine). By the end of the 10 hour Article 32 Hearing, I felt very good about it. I did not anticipate them dismissing the case and a 17 page report, in my favor, written by the “judge”.
Conclusion: This man is an absolute monster in the courtroom. He put me in mind of Tom Cruise in A Few Good Men. I strongly recommend Attorney Aaron Meyer.
Personally, thank you Aaron for your hard work, truths, and availability. Please keep doing what you are doing, teach others, and take vacations (you deserve it).
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06 Jul, 2023 by Alexander
Aaron Meyer is the first attorney I ever needed to utilize in my life and with exceptional professionalism as well as a very personable demeanor I was heavily impressed and forever thankful for all the work he has done. He not only helped me with my case but to this day I still tell my friends about the amazing work this man has done for me. He sets a bar that I don't think many could ever conceive reaching as a defense attorney.
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10 Nov, 2021 by Cody
I was referred to Aaron Meyer Law by a longtime friend who used to work defense council with Aaron. He told me “I’ve never seen anyone advocate or litigate more aggressively for their clients in the courtroom than Aaron does, if I was in your shoes he’s the guy I’d trust to defend me”. Unfortunately my friends representation of AML’s capabilities was an UNDERSTATEMENT. Aaron fought tirelessly, methodically and zealously for me before, during and AFTER my case was dismissed altogether. With my back against the wall, my career and future in immediate jeopardy, and what was seemingly an insurmountable amount of evidence against me - Aaron not only prevailed but DESTROYED the opposing counsel, uncovering videos and documents (in my favor) I didn’t even know existed - while subtly making a complete mockery of their case against me. In the months leading up to trial AND the months after the trial, no call, text, or email went unanswered in a prompt, timely and professional manner. An attorney/client dynamic I was unaccustomed to having dealt with family attorneys the past two years. It is my firm belief that there is not another attorney within the United States that could’ve done what Aaron did for me, my family and my career. This man owed me nothing, but litigated my case as if his own life was at stake. It is without hesitation that I’d hire him again or refer him to anyone I know if they unfortunately found themselves in the position I was in. His case results are real, and I’m forever indebted to this man and his firm for saving my life.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jordan zerebny
Christine helped me out wildly!
Would recommend her to anyone who needs legal advice
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24 Jun, 2024 by Erika garcia
Christine is the best criminal justice attorney I have ever worked with. From our first meeting, she explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings. She always got back to me quickly and made it a seamless operation, especially as we were facing time constraints. I highly recommend her service for fair representation!
If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable attorney at a great price, then go to Christine Martin.
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16 May, 2024 by Kingsley forrester
I've worked with Christina on both personally for my friends and family as well as professionally. She has always been knowledgable, courteous, and a fierce advocate for her clients. Highly recommend using her for any criminal cases.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Bright.things43
Adam Stull is not your average attorney. This attorney knows every ins n outs of the legal system and he knows how to talk and use his extensive knowledge as leverage to deal with even the most difficult situations. My case was probably one of the more difficult ones than your average . I was dealing with the fight of my life. It was almost certain I would spend MANY many years in prison at a federal level. My situation was dire and literally I knew & everyone I talked to told me my life was over. My case was an extremely difficult & time consuming white collar crime involving lots damaging stuff against me. It was a uphill battle.
Adam came on board with a different mentality . First he addressed the facts of my case but he also was sensitive with my overwhelming emotions. He knew exactly the steps he had to take & delivered with the utmost confidence, w/o giving false hopes. Adam made himself available every step of the way, answered ALL my questions, kept me up to date on status, returned every phone call & text (even in the middle of the night). When you have a attorney that will rise to the level of dependability &
trustworthiness that Adam portrays, it's requires compassion and moral characteristic and deep respect he has for his clients. He knows it's your LIFe.
I was losing hope with my situation but he kept fighting when the odds were stacked gravely against me. Though a tough case to battle, he knew exactly what needed to be done. Adam has a broad and deep knowledge of criminal law... & he's also very likeable & easy to talk to. Sometimes when you make a mistake you deserve a second chance... Adam gave me a second chance at life. He was there and fought & i am forever grateful for this man and his skills. They call him "world famous" and I really understand why. I literally owe him everything for giving my life back.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Robin oesterblad
My Son Sam had used a different attorney and got no where with his case we got Adam’s number and he was very tuned in on what Sam needed and how to handle it so my son could go forward with his life .
My Son and I appreciate all of Adam’s hard work. Thank you Mr. Stull
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26 Jan, 2021 by Donald watts
Adam is by far the best lawyer for criminal record expungement cases. He was able to get my case dismissed within weeks from the date i hired him. I also got quotes from almost every lawyer near me and Adams price for his service was not only lower then the rest but he went out of his way to make time to answer and guide me through all my issues i had. Adam makes you feel like your a friend and not just a client paying him money for his time. If you have any legal issues that are listed on his website i highly recommend you consult him first!
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29 Mar, 2017 by Ashley
I personally want to take a moment to share my gratitude. The office of Virginia Landry and the entire staff has tremendously helped me. I got my DUI, which was a felony due to the BAC and the fact there was an accident. I was terrified of what the entire outcome would be. As soon as I entered the office, i was treated as family. My stress lessened and I instantly knew that i was in great hands. They thoroughly explained the details of my case and instantly went to work. Apparently, they are very well respected in the court system. They did all the footwork for me. I still know that I made a huge mistake, but with their help, it definitely lessened the blow of what the judge could have and would have laid on me. This took place back in 2011, and with successful completion of all required by probation, they went back to work for me and got it expunged. Which, may not always be the case, but they did it. Now i am able to have this fresh start for my daughter and I. I can now go to school and get into the medical field, or there are so many more opportunities. Thank you all that were a part of this journey and always being so prompt and understanding. Thank you for helping change my life again, but for the best. I appreciate you all!
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18 Oct, 2015 by Drew
In July of 2014, as a 22 year old, I was arrested and charged, unjustly, with a DUI. This was my second DUI arrest, which is obviously a potentially serious and definitely stressful, situation for most to encounter. My first DUI arrest was four years prior, in July 2010, which I was later convicted for in February of 2011. I fulfilled all court requirements for that conviction, and learned my lesson thoroughly. My second DUI arrest happened in July 2014 and was not filed against me until December of 2014. I researched various DUI lawyers following my arrest, and consulted with multiple lawyers regarding my case. I decided to hire Virginia's firm after my consultations, and I must say I was fully satisfied with their thoughtful care in handling my case from start to finish.
To expand on details in regards to my case, I was charged with a combination DUI, which includes drug impairment in combination with alcohol. The drug I was accused to be impaired by was marijuana, upon which I learned, through Virginia's expertise, that there are two levels of usage detection which are examined. The two levels of usage detection consist of: (1.) inactive marijuana chemical presence, & (2.) active marijuana chemical presence. Inactive chemical presence is considered long-term chemical presence, and does not, by itself, classify a user as currently impaired. Active chemical presence, on the other hand, can classify a marijuana user as "impaired," or "intoxicated." My blood results showed both inactive and active levels of marijuana chemicals, therefore, I was considered to be driving while "intoxicated." My BAC level was just .04, which is under the legal limit to drive, but my active marijuana chemicals in combination with those minimal alcohol levels, were what enabled the prosecution to categorize me as a "DUI."
The major issue was that I never actually drove my car, but since I was technically behind the wheel of the car while the engine was running, at the time of the CHP officer's intervention, I was able to be legally classified as the driver of the car. I never intentionally moved the car, I only switched seats from the passenger's seat into the driver's seat, while the initial driver who caused the CHP to follow and stop my car, did the opposite (switched out of the driver's seat and into the passenger's seat).
The real, true driver was given a driving citation for driving my car without an active driver's license. Since she was obviously the driver, and I only rode along as passenger, and switched into the driver's seat only after the initial driver's hysterical demand for me to switch seats with her, following our being pulled over, I had an optimistic place to begin my case in court. My lawyer (Virginia) essentially argued that I was never the driver of the vehicle, and took the stance that I was merely "defending my property," which is typically seen as an acceptable defense in court. She filed motions to suppress evidence, which essentially prevents the prosecution from using any evidence against me, that was obtained after we were stopped by the CHP. I was argued to have never been the "driver" of the car, and therefore, I could not have been charged with any driving offenses.
Virginia handled all of my court appearances, with exception of the final appearance, in which I was required to appear in front of the judge. In this appearance, the Orange County District Attorney agreed to dismiss my charges altogether.
At this point, in June 2015, all my worries disappeared, and I was able to carry on about my life without any worries of legal troubles. I was fully satisfied with Virginia's handling of my case, and highly recommend this experienced attorney to anyone facing DUI charges, or other various criminal charges. She has a wealth of successful experience in the industry, and should be at the top of your list if you're in the market for a defense lawyer.
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31 May, 2013 by Michael
The Law Offices of Virgina L. Landry is the best. They got me out of jail on what's called the "ScramX" program, which is basically home confinement plus alcohol monitoring, which I believe is going to save my life. I'm 25 years old and got my third D.U.I. From the moment I retained their services, they made me feel comfortable and confident that everything was going to be all right. Given my circumstances this was a massive feat. They answered all my collect calls from jail and went above and beyond what I expected. In the courtroom they fought as hard as they had to to get the best deal for me and they succeeded in doing so. I would still be sitting in jail for a long long time if it weren't for them. My gratitude to them is never ending. Thank you so much.
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14 Jul, 2014 by Don cook
Malcolm represented me in 1992, when i had been arrested on a trumped-up charge. His sterling defense, in spite of the judge bending over backward for the prosecution, resulted in me being found what i was in the first place: Not Guilty … the second not guilty verdict in more than a hundred cases similar to mine. This was in 1993; he is excellent, and i wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.6
13 Reviews
09 Jan, 2023 by Mike gugliotta
Took care of all my legal problems, really worked for me.
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18 Aug, 2022 by Anzhela kosolapova
MR. Barry Simon's typical sales guy who is sitting at his office and showing people how he wrote law books, he got zero respect at court, he don't even show up at court after he will recieve your money , in my situation he don't even bother himself to show me any evidence from DA against me , lies to me on the phone, Julie Swan at that time I hire him start work for him , she is even worse lier them Mr Barry, for 30k I been paying them they done absolutely nothing but keep postponing, zero investigation, never called me about any updates, on the top of it he lies to me I will see him at court on my case. Don't waste your money on scam lawyers, it's 90% of them in OC.
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16 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Marlo was personable, easy to talk to, and available when needed. She gave frequent updates and even went beyond expectations in accelerating my sentencing guidelines. I highly recommend her services!
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22 Feb, 2022 by Keith forster
From the moment I called Michael, I knew he was the right attorney for the job!! Coming from a Law Enforcement Background. Having over 30 years interaction with lawyers, I can tell quickly when you have a knowledgeable articulate litigant like Michael. Both compassionate and tenacious.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a hearing with the state board of nursing. The attorney I hired was a disappointment . He was totally unprepared, he kept asking for time during the hearing to review documents. I was not prepared, because I depended on my hired attorney. The few interactions we had prior to the hearing, he was more interested in if I wired his money, than on the evidence. The irony was is I had another attorney who was much less expensive, but I was not happy with the possible outcome.However Mr Khouri assured me he could do better, so I hired him. What a big mistake!!! After the disaster outcome, I called him about the follow up that the board wanted, he was quite uninterested. Even though the fee was a flat fee, after the hearing, could not get in touch with him. I have never had an attorney that was so blatantly aloof about a client
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24 Aug, 2020 by Jason
I have been a business owner for 15 years. In that time, I've dealt with the IRS, Treasury, HUD, FBI and PIS. I retained Michael for the newest government infringement and he has been nothing short of incredible. I've never had an attorney work so hard for me and so quickly. I do not mean he's fast with his work as in he doesn't take his time, I mean he is quick to act and ward off problems before they may begin to exist. In my first 3 days as a client, Attorney Khouri had sent several emails on my behalf, made several demands and had talked with me on the phone a dozen times and kept in constant contact between email and text messages. This kind of attorney is very, very rare. I would recommend Attorney Khouri to family and friends without hesitation.
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03 Apr, 2023 by Rick
David was amazing and professional. I live on the East Coast. David handled everything, and then some, in a way that saved me thousands in travel fees. His insight, knowledge and understanding of the laws associated with my case were beyond approach. All of this at extremely fair price.
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11 Dec, 2017 by Warren
I was looking at 2 charges: Under the influence of a controlled substance & Domestic Violence (ex). Both were misdemeanor charges and this was the biggest trouble I've ever been in with the law - I was really scared about how this would end...
Bottom line, Both charges were dismissed completely. I had to attend some classes and that was it! In fact, I even missed my court dates and had a warrant out for my arrest which David was able to help me with. Awesome lawyer!
I went into this thinking that it'd be great if I could somehow just face only one misdemeanor at least. Nope... I couldn't have asked for anything better. I mean, I got all my charges DISMISSED and didn't have to pay a bunch of court fees either. In fact, the most expensive thing wasn't the court fees - it was the attorney fee. And that was only 50% of what a few other lawyers were asking for.
It helped so much that he was familiar with the court and the judge. In fact, I referred him to a couple people who didn't have a lawyer at the time and I'd do it again. He treated me respectfully and didn't make me feel ashamed or like a loser - his attitude was professional and optimistic but at the same time he didn't overly promise. Honestly, I have no idea why that person would leave a 1 star review.
Warren
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11 Oct, 2017 by Steve
I had a lawsuit filled against my company and asked David for my help in the matter. He went over and beyond his duty to get a quick dismissal for me and his fee was amazingly inexpensive.
Thank You David Salvin once again
Steve
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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.
