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24 Aug, 2024 by Beanah d
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23 Aug, 2024 by Anahita jafari
I can't say how much I'm thankful for having Mr Randall Wolfe as my Auterny. Randall and Charis helped me like my own family. They stood for my rights when I was miserable and so weak, much more than my expectations. They were a blessing in my life.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Joshua michael
Attorneys Randy and Charis provided exceptional service from start to finish. Randy’s meticulous approach and Charis’s empathetic communication made the entire process seamless. They were always attentive and dedicated to achieving the best outcome. Additionally, the office staff are all professional and friendly. I highly recommend Randy and Charis for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Scott
I had no idea how to find and retain an effective defense attorney, and ultimately hired John based on reviews like the one I'm about to submit here...what other metric could I use? He's a straight shooter with a wealth of experience. He kept me up to speed as each step of a grueling, bureaucratic process played out (my ordeal began mid-pandemic, allowing the state to redefine my 'right to a speedy trial'). I was confident in how I wanted to handle my defense, but adjusted course several times based on his input. I leaned heavily on his knowledge and experience when the time came for trial, and he didn't let me down. I sometimes wonder how things might have played out had I hired a different attorney. I'm glad I didn't. It could not have gone any better.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Thomas
John is the best trial lawyer Out there. Major Swag and has a great respectful reputation around the court house with everyone. John does not take short cuts and will do everything in his power to make sure you get the best representation for your case. I was charged with multiple measure 11 crimes in Washington County Oregon and after two years of working with John and his top notch Private Investigators I was found Not Guilty on all counts! John will go the extra mile and he truly cares about his clients. Not to mention John is Very competitive, and does not like to lose! If you are seeking a lawyer that will really care about your case and knows the law very well don’t hesitate to reach out to John. Best Decision I Ever Made!
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07 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
John definitely went above and beyond! From the time he was hired, all the way to the end of my case (that we won!) he had great communication, there wasn't a time when i didn't know what to expect. Always gave me options, and the pros and cons to each, along with great suggestions on how to move forward. He kept his phone line open for me to ask questions on the case. If he was busy, always called back. He also just checked in and made sure i was doing alright. Which was big for me in trusting his process. John communicated with my other lawyers to make sure the dates weren't conflicting with each other, if they did he had it figured out within times notice. He's very quick and on it, even while juggling many other cases. Overall the best experience with a lawyer i've had.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Martie
Excellent listening skills, verbal skills (layman's terms) considerate, patient, Respectful of my input and what I wanted In the settlement. Mr. Johnson is not only an outstanding attorney; he is a true gentleman. I'm a senior citizen, virtues are extremely important to me. I would highly recommend Mr. Jonathon Johnson to anyone. Sincerely, Martie
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07 Jun, 2019 by Dana
Johnathan Johnson stepped in to represent me in an auto accident case nearing the statute of limitations when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed improbable. He went straight to work during our first and only in-person meeting and employed a strategy to expedite the insurer’s response and encourage a reasonable settlement, avoiding drawn out litigation. With Mr. Johnson’s knowledge, skilful negotiations and excellent, concise communication the case was settled satisfactorily in less than seven weeks. He kept me informed of developments throughout and was responsive to my questions. I am so grateful to Mr. Johnson and would recommend him without hesitation.
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24 May, 2019 by Michelle
Compared to a previous experience with a different firm, Jonathan was excellent at communicating every step of the way. I was not left in the dark as to the status of my case, and he reviewed each communication with me prior to submitting to the opposing party to verify accuracy and obtain my consent. Based on his previous experience with case law, he pursued an alternate angle in an attempt to obtain the best result. I knew I had a favorable advocate who was doing his best, even with a relatively small case. He was also very conscientious to not over-promise and under-deliver.
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06 Mar, 2014 by L. elizabeth
Chris was my attorney. He worked hard and knew every aspect of the case. I will always be grateful to him because he was the strongest advocate for me and my children! How do you thsnk someone for giving my life back. Everyday I try to "pay it foward." Thank you, L. ELIZABETH
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26 Aug, 2024 by Paula sanders
Mr. Bernstein represented my boyfriend. I was extremely impressed with his work. Very happy he licked the right lawyer for his case. Thank you again.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jim simmons
For the second time mr Bernstein and his staff continue to impress me with the representation they have provided for me they are professional,prompt, courteous and very knowledgeable of the law and the court system i could not ask for a better attorney .I would recommend them to anyone that needs a great attorney.Thank you Mr Bernstein
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21 Aug, 2024 by Lisa k
I had the privilege of working with Rhett Bernstein, and I couldn't be more impressed with his dedication and professionalism. From the very beginning, he demonstrated a sincere interest in my well-being, taking the time to understand my situation on a personal level. Throughout our interactions, it was evident that he genuinely cared about me as a person, not just another client. One thing that truly stood out was his commitment to ensuring that I was fully informed about every aspect of my case. He patiently explained all my options, walking me through the legal intricacies in a way that was easy to understand. His clarity and expertise instilled confidence in me, allowing me to make informed decisions with peace of mind. What truly sets Rhett apart is his willingness to go above and beyond for his clients. He didn't just provide legal advice; he actively worked alongside me, guiding me through the decision-making process and offering invaluable insights every step of the way. His dedication to my case was unwavering, and he spared no effort in ensuring that I received the best possible outcome. Even after our initial consultations, Rhett and Sommer continued to check in regularly, demonstrating a genuine concern for my well-being. He consistently went the extra mile, exploring all avenues to help resolve any lingering concerns or issues that arose. His proactive approach and accessibility reassured me that I was in good hands throughout the entire process. Thanks to Rhett Bernstein’s expertise, compassion, and unwavering support, what could have been a daunting legal journey became a manageable and even empowering experience. I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone in need of legal assistance. He's not just a remarkable lawyer; he's a compassionate advocate who truly puts his clients first."
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06 Sep, 2024 by Lisa osborn
Very personable and explains the difference between a trust & a will. Highly recommend!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Meredith dunn
I was very impressed with Monica Campbell. She was professional, very knowledgeable and honest and gave me a lot of information to prepare me for naturalization. She kept me up to date with the progress and process of my situation and accompanied me to the successful immigration interview. I really appreciated Monica's kindness and compassion as she was very supportive several months after my husband had passed away. I highly recommend her.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Angela 4hair
My experience with Monica exceeded my expectations. I had limited knowledge on how to move forward with my mothers estate after her passing. She was very knowledgeable and took the time to answer all the questions I had related to my mothers will. She also helped me to make crucial decisions concerning her estate. She truly wants to get everything accomplished in a timely manner and with the utmost care. I am looking forward to Monica updating my will so that everything is clearly spelled out.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Pamela daniels
A liar and a manipulator
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12 Apr, 2023 by Jolie faulkner
Shanon helped me negotiate a disengagement contract I needed done and worked tirelessly to push on the other parties attorney to get the wording and details of the contract to my specific needs. I was expecting to get $4k back from the contract and Shanon negotiated $7k for me. So his services were quite honestly above and beyond what I expected. He also was very kind and easy to talk to. I recommend him to everyone!
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17 Oct, 2022 by Kari evans
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14 Sep, 2016 by Roxann
Mark is extremely well connected. He was highly recommended to me and he exceeded my expectations. I'm ugly and bipolar, and he did a stellar job defending me. It is unfortunate that people don't know how to work with attorney. They have a heavy case load and can't remember the details on the fly. They HAVE to refer to their files before giving an answer. Every case has it's own quirks. And people micromanage because they are infinitely more vested in the outcome (unless it's a contingent fee!--then BUYER BEWARE. you receive a 1/3 and get taxed on 100%). Mark even told me that. How honest is that? BTW, the outcome was better than I expected. Thank you Mark. You really helped me out of a legal nightmare.
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03 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I had him defend me did ok not great and he agreed to do some things for me and never followed through. Tried sending a letter he returned in left messages but no response. Should of fired him when I first got a bad feeling in my gut.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction.
  4. How many cases have you taken to trial?
    While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial.
  5. Who will handle my case?
    Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work.
  6. How do you communicate with your clients?
    Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
  • Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
  • Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

  • Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
  • Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
  • List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
  • Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

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