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08 Sep, 2024 by Amy jimenez
From beginning to end, this was a professional and thorough process. Can not recommend enough. 5 stars!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Mykayla fenska
Stuart recently helped my family create our family trust. For a conversation that most people dread (and let me tell you, I avoided this for YEARS), Stuart made a conversation that felt like it could be very scary, very easy to have. He made sure all of our bases were covered, all our assets were accounted for, and he had a step by step process that does not miss a beat. In addition to all of this, Stuart is a great communicator. I really cannot recommend utilizing Stuart to plan your family trust more.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Jerome hagedorn
My wife and I recently completed our Family Trust and Planning with the guidance of Stuart Williams. Through the process, we found Stuart to be professional and attentive to our personal situation and desires. He tailored our plan and documents to meet those perfectly.
Family Wills & Trusts has a very well organized program that guided us through the process.
Stuart was patient and always available for questions.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Maya khud
We greatly appreciate Ms. Mehrani’s exceptional professionalism, extensive qualifications and profound knowledge. She is super kind, always available and easy to reach. She was able to answer every question we had. Highly recommended! Thank you for your outstanding support!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jemal ali
Mehrani is a hard-working attorney who ensured my case was handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Her dedication and attention to detail were evident in every step.
I recently applied for an advisory opinion through Mehrani to address the discrepancy of the 212(e) home residency requirement between my Visa page and my DS-2019. She took the case seriously and collected all the necessary information to support my application.
When I saw her video about this on YouTube, At first, I was hesitant since I didn’t know her in person, nor did I have any recommendations from others. However, I didn’t have any fear when I paid for the attorney service fee even before she submitted my case, as I could see her determination in the videos she posted.
Communication was always prompt and thorough, which made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Thanks to Mehrani's hard work and expertise, my advisory opinion result was positive, and I am incredibly grateful. I highly recommend Mehrani to anyone in need of legal assistance. She is truly exceptional at what she does.
Thank you, Mehrani, for your outstanding service!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Mohsen aliabadi
What impressed me the most was their accessibility – they were always there to answer my questions and address my concerns, no matter how small. Their fairness and dedication to my case made me feel confident and well-represented.
If you're looking for a lawyer who truly cares about their clients and provides top-notch legal advice, look no further than MS Mehrani.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Maya khud
We greatly appreciate Ms. Mehrani’s exceptional professionalism, extensive qualifications and profound knowledge. She is super kind, always available and easy to reach. She was able to answer every question we had. Highly recommended! Thank you for your outstanding support!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jemal ali
Mehrani is a hard-working attorney who ensured my case was handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Her dedication and attention to detail were evident in every step.
I recently applied for an advisory opinion through Mehrani to address the discrepancy of the 212(e) home residency requirement between my Visa page and my DS-2019. She took the case seriously and collected all the necessary information to support my application.
When I saw her video about this on YouTube, At first, I was hesitant since I didn’t know her in person, nor did I have any recommendations from others. However, I didn’t have any fear when I paid for the attorney service fee even before she submitted my case, as I could see her determination in the videos she posted.
Communication was always prompt and thorough, which made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Thanks to Mehrani's hard work and expertise, my advisory opinion result was positive, and I am incredibly grateful. I highly recommend Mehrani to anyone in need of legal assistance. She is truly exceptional at what she does.
Thank you, Mehrani, for your outstanding service!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Mohsen aliabadi
What impressed me the most was their accessibility – they were always there to answer my questions and address my concerns, no matter how small. Their fairness and dedication to my case made me feel confident and well-represented.
If you're looking for a lawyer who truly cares about their clients and provides top-notch legal advice, look no further than MS Mehrani.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Loren witte
What a joke!!!! This Law firm has been giving me the runaround for weeks what a waste of my valuable time.Look elsewhere if you value your legal representation these guys obviously don't have time for new clients or value them
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08 Jul, 2024 by Misty furgala
08 Jul, 2024 by Jacob alonso
Dustyn, Ashton and the whole team went above and beyond for me and my family. I cannot thank Coontz Law enough for working hard to ultimately have justice served in form of a Not Guilty jury verdict. TRUST IN THE PROCESS.
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13 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I met with Craig and he filled me full of hopes and promises for my divorce/custody case. He promised to be aggressive and fight for what I wanted. That sounded great until it came time to actually work. Yeah he filed the paperwork and stuff but rarely ever contacted me about things, when it came down to court he pressured me to just go with the flow rather that fight for what I want becuse fighting was extra work. Then he didn’t even show up to my divorce hearing. He left for vacation and his substitute attorney didn’t show up either so I ended up looking like a fool in court with no representation having not seen the order of divorce till the day of the hearing and I had to revise it and make changes myself. Really wish I didn’t waste all that money on his family vacation. I feel completly disappointed and scammed.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Greg
Craig is an excellent lawyer. He was in constant contact with me and helped with any issue that came up during my case. I would recommend Craig anytime. He far exceeded my expectations. A++++
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14 Aug, 2017 by Rockie
Craig not only helped me with my divorce but also gave me great advice on another legal matter.
Craig was professional and very understanding and I was super happy with everything he did for me. Thanks so much Mr. Davis You rock!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jack martin
Kirby Albright was excellent to work with. I highly recommend his services
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06 Aug, 2024 by Talal badra
Kirby and Cheryl really REALLY know what they're doing. I highly recommend this law firm!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Leslie jordan
03 Apr, 2021 by Kathy
08 Nov, 2020 by Bradley knuth
08 Oct, 2019 by Dave a
Friendly and professional help. Well established firm with a strong reputation.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Maizie kineman
I am so thankful and impressed by Brian and his staff. They helped my husband and I navigate the difficult process of pursuing a green card. Brian gets results, and he gets them fast. If you are looking for a lawyer with decades of experience, who is professional and kind, look no further.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Marcoa.
My experience with Brian was nothing short of amazing! He is truly dedicated to providing excellent service and professionalism making me feel confident that my case was in the best possible hands. Highly recommended!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Nguyen huynh
Navigating the green card process can be an overwhelming and stressful experience, but working with Brian Richards and his incredible assistant Nikki turned it into a smooth and reassuring journey.
Brian’s expertise and deep understanding of immigration law were evident from our first consultation. He walked us through every step of the process with patience, ensuring we fully understood what to expect and what was needed. What truly stood out, though, was the level of trust we felt throughout. It was clear we were in safe hands with Brian, and that gave us immense peace of mind during what could have been a very stressful time.
Nikki, Brian's assistant, was equally remarkable. Her responsiveness, attention to detail, and friendly demeanor made all the difference. She promptly addressed all our concerns and questions, no matter how small, and ensured that we stayed on track with our documentation and deadlines.
Together, Brian and Nikki worked seamlessly as a team to guide us through the green card process. They provided not only legal expertise but also emotional support, alleviating our anxieties with their consistent communication and reassuring presence. Their commitment to our case gave us confidence, and thanks to their hard work, we are now proud holders of green cards.
We cannot recommend the Law Office of Brian Richards enough. If you’re looking for a team that combines top-notch legal skills with compassion and trustworthiness, Brian and Nikki are the ones to go to. They truly care about their clients and go above and beyond to deliver results.
Thank you, Brian and Nikki, for turning what could have been a difficult journey into a smooth, peaceful process. You’ve earned our deepest trust and highest recommendation!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Stephen s
Had my divorce approx a year ago and couldn’t be more happy. Eric Lore represented me during this time. I also used him a few years back for child court and had great success. Thank you!
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10 Jan, 2024 by Andrea delaine sartorius
My husband recently hired Eric to handle a very difficult custody situation from a previous marriage. I'm writing this review because my husband has told me how much Eric has already helped him with his case. It's a good feeling seeing my husband look as if a mountain of stress just came off him getting clarity in attaining effective legal counsel for his next steps. As a wife, who has no legal say in this situation, it brings me a lot of peace of mind and emotional relief knowing my husband is in good hands. It's never easy watching step-family pain go on, but what makes that pain worse is when you don't have a good lawyer. I really hope this review helps someone choose Alane Family Law for peace of mind and real help for your family. Even though the hearing hasn't happened yet with the Judge (coming soon for them), I have no doubt that whatever happens, my husband did his best to find a good lawyer and I respect him for choosing Eric. I truly hope this situation we are in can get turned around in a positive way that brings healing to our family and everyone involved. Eric is in the process of helping things be realigned legally for my husband and our family which I am extremely grateful for. No matter what rocky roads lay ahead for my husband in this situation, I have peace of mind and heart knowing there is someone helping navigate the legal aspects. I only hope the best for this law firm so they can keep helping many families heal, end family pain, and help apply the law appropriately to people who need justice.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Cole rotteger
I am so thankful that I found Eric during this incredibly difficult time. Not only is Eric an incredibly competent and exceptional lawyer, but he is even a better human being. Eric took the time to truly understand my unique situation and worked tirelessly to ensure we reached the ideal resolution. There is no one I'd rather have to guide me through such a complex and emotionally challenging process.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jack martin
Kirby Albright was excellent to work with. I highly recommend his services
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06 Aug, 2024 by Talal badra
Kirby and Cheryl really REALLY know what they're doing. I highly recommend this law firm!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Leslie jordan
14 Mar, 2024 by A. jones
Used this law firm for years, until our lawyer kept "ghosting" us. Very unprofessional! Even when we made an appointment he would begin talkiing about other things besides our case. Eventually we went to another law firm and got wonderful help! They told us this law firm was handling our case in an "outdated" manner. Others comments on this law firm show that others have had similar experience in being "ghosted".
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10 Dec, 2023 by Anne brown
Carrie Freeman and her team provide honest and meticulous service with great care for their clients. With relationships that span decades that support their efforts, clients can have a stress free experience, knowing their legal matters are taken care of with efficiency.
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25 Nov, 2023 by Lyle allen (satellite lyle)
Economical and great customer service.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer rice
04 Jun, 2024 by Rob gaillard
Thank you Mersadies for your representation in my divorce case. Your knowledge of Veterans needs was amazing.
I highly recommend Mersadies to fellow Veterans as well as the civilian population. She continued to keep me posted and updated through out the process. Furthermore, she acknowledged my needs regarding my disabilities. Helping to streamline the difficult process of divorce.
Robert Gaillard
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24 Apr, 2024 by Lou daqua
This is what you call a low value law firm with low value employees. Don't even consider them, they are a joke.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer rice
04 Jun, 2024 by Rob gaillard
Thank you Mersadies for your representation in my divorce case. Your knowledge of Veterans needs was amazing.
I highly recommend Mersadies to fellow Veterans as well as the civilian population. She continued to keep me posted and updated through out the process. Furthermore, she acknowledged my needs regarding my disabilities. Helping to streamline the difficult process of divorce.
Robert Gaillard
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24 Apr, 2024 by Lou daqua
This is what you call a low value law firm with low value employees. Don't even consider them, they are a joke.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer rice
04 Jun, 2024 by Rob gaillard
Thank you Mersadies for your representation in my divorce case. Your knowledge of Veterans needs was amazing.
I highly recommend Mersadies to fellow Veterans as well as the civilian population. She continued to keep me posted and updated through out the process. Furthermore, she acknowledged my needs regarding my disabilities. Helping to streamline the difficult process of divorce.
Robert Gaillard
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24 Apr, 2024 by Lou daqua
This is what you call a low value law firm with low value employees. Don't even consider them, they are a joke.
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10 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I found myself in a bad situation and was referred to this law office by a friend of mine. John English is the attorney I hired for my case and he was not only on top of the issues but treated me like I was the only case he was working on. He was also very supportive throughout the entire process. John English is an excellent attorney. If I ever find myself in a legal situation again I would not hesitate to hire him and would definitely recommend him to anyone who find themselves in need of legal expertise.
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07 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Not sure where to begin.
I guess we should start with the first problem. I hired John's services 2 weeks before my first court date.
2 business days before my court date after not hearing from him. I decided to call him. Not knowing how things were going to go in court, I had a lot of questions. I was told by John that I need not to rush the court and don't worry about it we have plenty of time.
As soon as I told him court is on Monday. He immediately put me on hold and figured out that he could not even be there for my first court date.
Fortunately the firm had one of the other attorneys go to court with me and she was great. I wish I would have hired her instead of John.
The part that blew my mind was at my sentencing. The man that repeatedly told me how bad my situation was after reading statements from all parties involved. He sits down and reads the statement with the assistant of the prosecuting attorney. He then tells me that he wish he would have a chance to read that sooner. Well my first sit down meeting with him. We read through all the statements together.
I feel that I would have had the same or better results with my outcome if I would have just went with the court appointed attorney. One last thing.
Someone that has been in this line of work for 30+ years should not be stuttering and using the words um, uh, and other things like that when he is speaking to the Judge. I am a ninth grade drop out and can handle my wording better than that. Oh and yes he loved throwing in my face that I was a ninth grade drop out.
I will just say. I wish I would have saved the THOUSANDS of dollars I paid for such in incompetent service.
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27 Jun, 2016 by Glenn
I retained John English of Kronzek & Cronkright, PLLC for my defense on a misdemeanor drug charge. Since I had no criminal history, I was eligible for section 7411 in Michigan. John handled my case and not only got me section 7411, but my probation was limited to 90 days with the stipulation that it would end as soon I passed a drug test. Since John had advised me to avoid all drugs including alcohol, I tested clean and was immediately released from probation. My probation lasted about 15 minutes. I was very pleased and would recommend Kronzek & Cronkright as well as John English for your defense. Thanks John.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kmbs
29 Jun, 2024 by Scott neal
As of 2024, Cooley has failed to reach the 75% two year bar passage required of ABA Standard 316 for continued accreditation. Multiple media outlets have labeled Cooley the "worst law school in America".
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07 Jun, 2024 by B h
As an older student raising a family Cooley offered me the opportunity to attend weekend and evening classes allowing me to fulfill my dream of becoming a lawyer.
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08 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I have dismissed charges on some felony due to no evidence. This lady is the attorney for my wife's daughters grandma. Tell how it's right to try to judge and hold someone accountable for a charge that was dismissed. And she don't know the difference in no contact and a ppo. I will seek guidance to take this lady to court of defamation of character, slander, among others. Your not gonna play with me freedom this way. Your gonna learn. I will also look into if the ABA can help in this. Your breaking the laws lady and you and your client are lying. I will expose you.
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23 Jun, 2021 by Eric
I hired Ms. Patrick upon being charged with Unlawful Imprisonment, Interfering with communications and assault and battery. I was so distraught and confused at first. Knowing I could possibly end up in prison for 15 years! Melissa first calmed me down and made me focus. I was then able to provide her with the information and evidence she requested. She listens and provides understanding in a confusing time with out judgement. I felt completely comfortable with her understanding her expert opinions and advisement. She guided me through the entire 2 years 9 months (due to Covid) that it took to go to trial after several plea offers. I'm more than greatful that I chose Melissa to represent me. And I am even more greatful to announce our verdict from the jury. It only took the jury about 20 minutes to reach a unanimous decision of NOT GUILTY on ALL counts as of Yesterday! Thank You Melissa! I truly believe you were God's choice.
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25 Nov, 2019 by Angelia
I was really nervous when I reached out to her initially. She was in trial when I called. So it was a couple of days before I was able to speak with her. But once I spoke with her, she gave me confidence that she could resolve my issue. And she indeed did that with no problems.
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04 May, 2017 by Danielle
Mr. Rockafellow represented me in my recent divorce. He listened to my side of the story, and provided advice based my case and my facts. He worked with me on a payment plan; he wasn't the cheapest lawyer out there, but I decided I didn't want the cheapest. I wanted someone that would represent my best interests, and those of my children as well, and he made that possible.
Mr. Rockafellow always returned my calls, when I couldn't make it to his office, he met me at a location convenient to me. He was honest throughout the process and I always knew what to expect.
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12 Jun, 2015 by Teisha
This lawyer was very sloppy in court. He would often show up late. Every time I met with him, he would have food stains on his clothes. He doesn't seem very knowledgeable in landlord tenant law. I won this case on the grace of God. During meetings, he often spoke up for the opposing side instead of representing his client. He was also extremely rude during a follow up call once the case was over and he was paid in full. If your considering hiring this attorney, DON'T!
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05 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Rockafellow was welcoming and helpful from our first meeting. He understands Social Security Disability laws, and was able to help me understand them too. I felt comfortable in each of our meetings, no matter what question I asked.
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21 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I was in need of an attorney do to firing an attorney, so called Mr Marks and met with him at his office I explained my situation as far as my case he was straight to the point as to what he could do for me And gave me a fair price. Our first appearance in court and he done more for me than my first attorney.
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23 Aug, 2019 by Christina
It was a pleasure working with Eric! He helped me with a rental property and was quick at getting the issue taken care of. I look forward to working with him again!
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12 Aug, 2019 by Kaifei
I had a extremely poor experience at his place. Instead of trying to communicate and understand your issue, this guy only induce you to pay him more. He wouldn’t hear from you and wouldn’t read any documents from you.
However, this guy has 0 skill as a attorney. He can’t even write a lawyer’s letter. He also has some trouble with replying your text message, and never answer phone call.
Overall, my grandma is going to be better an attorney than him.PLEASE DO NOT HIRE HIM AS YOUR LAWYER, AND DO NOT PAY HIM ANY MONEY.
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22 Mar, 2011 by Steve
I was very please with the result of my case with Mr. Tomal. Thank you for all the help!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kmbs
29 Jun, 2024 by Scott neal
As of 2024, Cooley has failed to reach the 75% two year bar passage required of ABA Standard 316 for continued accreditation. Multiple media outlets have labeled Cooley the "worst law school in America".
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07 Jun, 2024 by B h
As an older student raising a family Cooley offered me the opportunity to attend weekend and evening classes allowing me to fulfill my dream of becoming a lawyer.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kmbs
29 Jun, 2024 by Scott neal
As of 2024, Cooley has failed to reach the 75% two year bar passage required of ABA Standard 316 for continued accreditation. Multiple media outlets have labeled Cooley the "worst law school in America".
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by B h
As an older student raising a family Cooley offered me the opportunity to attend weekend and evening classes allowing me to fulfill my dream of becoming a lawyer.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kmbs
29 Jun, 2024 by Scott neal
As of 2024, Cooley has failed to reach the 75% two year bar passage required of ABA Standard 316 for continued accreditation. Multiple media outlets have labeled Cooley the "worst law school in America".
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by B h
As an older student raising a family Cooley offered me the opportunity to attend weekend and evening classes allowing me to fulfill my dream of becoming a lawyer.
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05 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Don several years ago. During this time I’ve called his office and he never got the message from his office. After talking with him he said text him directly and he would get back with you. Maybe days later. The last dealing with him, he was supposed to find out about a dealing with the Jackson County Court system. I texted him several times to inform me of what was going on. His response was Dude chill out! This is not what you want your attorney to tell you. To this day he has never gotten back to me about this matter. I would not recommend this attorney to my worst enemy!
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17 Sep, 2015 by Ashlynn
Best attorney out there! Great guy too on top of that. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of a criminal defense attourney.
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19 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Clark gemminick through the assistance of someone from my church. I would later discover that the person who referred Ms. Clark was very dissatisfied. During the first year Ms. Clark was effective on the front lines of court battle as her wealth of experience was evident. Ms. Clark navigated my case with professional precision although it was almost impossible to make a connection outside of court. Funds trickled in while my divorce dragged on, causing Ms. Clark to become weary. I so wished that she would have withdrawn rather than experience what became utter carelessness on the part of Ms. Clark over the last year. Ms Clark gemminick recommended toxic professionals that were under review by the state. When Ms. Clark spoke to the Guardian ad litem on my behalf, I would find that she carelessly misinformed her about a matter that caused no small of damage. When it became clear that Ms. Clark was now deleterious to my case, I opted to represent myself. I experienced Ms. Clark not only losing interest in my case but completely disrespecting me as a struggling individual.
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24 Mar, 2014 by Tina
I was a client of Lisa Clark.
I did not like about her services becasue she didn't represent me in any means during the process. The most commonly said words of hers were "my divorce was worse than yours" and she charged her client $$$$ for these words. She did not show up at court and she cancelled my FOC's appointment without my knowledge.
Find another attorney for your legal needs!
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25 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Lisa was the most unprofessional lawyer I have ever dealt with. She wouldn't return URGENT calls or emails for weeks!! Worse than that, she stood by my side in court and did absolutely nothing besides tell ME to shut up and stuck her finger in my face. It was completely humiliating. She wouldn't file motions, she told me to do it. Every single time!!! The days i went to court on my own, without her, I got a parenting order for HALF the time with my sons, AND a PPO on their mother. She gave personal case information to my EX's attorney! Bottom line here is she is the worst most unprofessional attorney on the planet and ALL she cares about is money! If you would like to come out on top of your case, FIND ANOTHER ATTORNEY!!!
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07 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Unreliable and irresponsible lawyer who doesn’t need to be practicing and representing clients.When we had a court date Stephanie showed up late to the court hearing. After the hearing she did not give us any copies of the documentation from the court of the decision of the hearing we had to go to the court to get the documentation ourselves . in addition she would not return any of our phone calls or messages we left, Our family felt that she failed to represent us properly even though we had many witnesses Preponderance proofs of evidence to rectify the situation also She seemed to be acting very strange and unusual and it’s sometimes very erratic in our presence I would Not recommend her to hire her or feel she should be continuing practicing law.
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05 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Incompetent lawyer who has a drug problem with cocaine Who failed to use utilize per pondering proofs of evidence in the file to remove the child from the predator father who had a long history of physical and emotional abuse on women in Eaton and Ingham county during a major in for investigation of those two counties in addition and children accepted financial bribes as a result the child remain in the fathers care and their child continued to endure abuse from the father Stephanie should not have a license and continues to have a drug problem and helps aid in a bed criminalsAnd is the other comments made it perfectly clear she does not return phone calls she runs up the bills and does not do any work and then alleges that you owe money for work not done.
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28 Jan, 2015 by Vickie
Ms.Godsey was hired from out of state ,but to do work in Michigan. Agreed to not charge for contact with a third party,received bill,client was charged with those contacts. Does not do what she says. Ms. Godsey called and we was informed she had everything taken care of.She would have a person out of jail by 5 pm that day,that said person was not taken care of til 5 days later. I feel Ms. Godsey is not honest with client, over charges, runs bill up purposely! Plus harasses client for payment when an agreement was already made.
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19 Oct, 2020 by Nails4less
12 May, 2020 by Dale devereaux
19 Mar, 2019 by Carmen
Before talking to Attorney Neal we've talked to several lawyers trying to find the right one for the case. Attorney Neal was the best choice because he was compassionate, caring, he understood what what we were going through and he had experience with this type of case. With other lawyers we felt like it was all about money and the outcome didn't look good. Not with Attorney Neal! We felt very welcomed and he explained everything in great detail. He got the job done and with a very positive outcome. Thank you again!!
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05 Oct, 2021 by Susan
I was a client of frank Reynolds in 2003 in Lansing. He was part of a corruption ring involved with my ex- husband to send me to prison for 5 years. My husband then molested and sexually abused our children. His girlfriend stole my identity. It is unforgivable that attorney’s continue to commit crimes against the very people they are paid to protect.
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22 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Never returned my phone calls, overbilled and was simply handed off to an associate that didn't know what he was doing. When I did recieve a call back he never seem to know what was going on with my case and transferred me to his associate who was clueless
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19 Oct, 2020 by Nails4less
12 May, 2020 by Dale devereaux
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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:
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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.
