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12 Jul, 2023 by Willie norfork
28 Mar, 2023 by Gary blanton
19 Jan, 2023 by Pips with clint
My best friend had told me about Lana Fraser at James law firm but I had to get in touch for him after he was falsely arrested on a felony warrant last week. James called me back immediately after the answering service contacted him and then Lana called me back shortly after. She went above and beyond to email and call every sheriff and deputy in town until she got the warrant cleared out of the system and this was around 11pm so to me that’s the best customer service I’ve ever seen in a lawyer! I appreciate the help and her going to bat for her clients. She’ll fight for you and she isn’t afraid of getting bullied or staining her reputation if what the cops did was not by the books. Way to go Lana and you are by far the best I’ve dealt with even though I pets haven’t had to use you. Do, if you need a good lawyer from out of town or even in your town look up Lana Fraser at James Law firm.
Clinton Carter
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15 Feb, 2024 by Gretchen hyatt
29 Dec, 2023 by Edward walker
Excellent professional service.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Tommie clayton
Best lawyer around .
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10 Aug, 2024 by Misty fox
Eff you, Betty.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Krista johnson
I highly recommend anyone going through a step-parent adoption / custody case to take the time to meet with Betty Hardy. She has made what seems to be one of the most stressful and exhausting times in our lives, simple. Regardless of the question, she had an answer. She is very sharp in and out of the court room. Ms. Betty has brought so much justice to not only our daughter but to our entire family. The staff at the firm (Connie is usually who helps us) are very professional, easy to talk to and are personable. 10/10 recommend for anyone!
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29 Aug, 2023 by Patryk j
06 Aug, 2024 by Victoria leigh
Great result. Definitely recommend!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Eric gibbs
I was hired by Patrick Benca in Aug 2023 to serve a paper and he does not pay. He has viewed the invoice on QuickBooks but does not pay.
Viewed 13 times
9/1/2023, 5:00:41 PM
10/6/2023, 5:05:17 PM
10/10/2023, 3:41:15 PM
10/24/2023, 6:24:36 PM
10/26/2023, 2:46:05 PM
10/26/2023, 7:50:24 PM
10/27/2023, 11:28:46 AM
11/13/2023, 11:04:09 PM
11/13/2023, 11:08:24 PM
11/29/2023, 3:41:05 PM
1/24/2024, 11:42:21 AM
1/24/2024, 1:49:57 PM
2/5/2024, 7:35:11 AM
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01 Apr, 2024 by Tee graham
If worst lawyer in the world had an award he would win it by a landslide . Don’t spend not a dollar with him ON GOD
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14 Jun, 2024 by Jimy mamdouh
30 Nov, 2023 by Kristofer stacher
Very professional
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27 Jan, 2023 by Momma kim
love this place, fare and kind
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07 Oct, 2024 by Amber
Mr. Greene is by far one of the worst defenders I have ever tried to contact.... iv left several messages and emails to which he never responded and he never responded to my husband either which is who he is supposed to be defending.... how do you defend someone you won't even talk to or give the time of day... by far a shitty defender take your buisness to someone else bc this guy is b.s.
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22 May, 2024 by Corey taylor
Mr. Omar Is very good at what he do It did not go the way I wanted it to go But he may share my biggest concern was taking care of which I did not get no Pen time But I am very happy with the performance of Service id for me Thank you very much....
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26 Dec, 2023 by Robert ennis
14 Jun, 2024 by Jimy mamdouh
30 Nov, 2023 by Kristofer stacher
Very professional
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27 Jan, 2023 by Momma kim
love this place, fare and kind
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10 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Don't return calls,letters,don't keep clients updated on the status of their case.you went to trial (murder)lost.now that you are doing my brother appeal.the family nor (Jeremy L Reed)haven't heard anything from you and can't get in touch with you.thats not right.just want to shed light on the truth to your viewers so that you can't do someone else family member wrong.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Sarah cowan
04 Jan, 2023 by Patrick cowan
06 Aug, 2024 by Victoria leigh
Great result. Definitely recommend!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Eric gibbs
I was hired by Patrick Benca in Aug 2023 to serve a paper and he does not pay. He has viewed the invoice on QuickBooks but does not pay.
Viewed 13 times
9/1/2023, 5:00:41 PM
10/6/2023, 5:05:17 PM
10/10/2023, 3:41:15 PM
10/24/2023, 6:24:36 PM
10/26/2023, 2:46:05 PM
10/26/2023, 7:50:24 PM
10/27/2023, 11:28:46 AM
11/13/2023, 11:04:09 PM
11/13/2023, 11:08:24 PM
11/29/2023, 3:41:05 PM
1/24/2024, 11:42:21 AM
1/24/2024, 1:49:57 PM
2/5/2024, 7:35:11 AM
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01 Apr, 2024 by Tee graham
If worst lawyer in the world had an award he would win it by a landslide . Don’t spend not a dollar with him ON GOD
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14 Jun, 2024 by Jimy mamdouh
30 Nov, 2023 by Kristofer stacher
Very professional
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23 Jul, 2023 by Eli/orlando osorio
Yo no lo recomiendo , me cobro $1500 solo por un caso de (guardianship)pariente guardian y le pagamos $1500 él mismo día que agarro el caso ,en efectivo y tengo pruebas , el dio su palabra de que en un mes tendríamos la cita para la corte ,pero nunca después de esa cita recibí una llamada ni texto ni correo de voz ;durante tres meses no hizo ningún avanze en el caso y cuando fui a la oficina a retirar mi caso porque no vi ningún avanze su asistente fue muy grosera y altanera no me quería atender el abogado ,me salió con excusas falsas que me había llamando y que según yo nunca contesté ,me dijo que no me podía atender y que si quería llegar a la oficina tenía que llamar 30 min antes de entrar por esa puerta; cuando se le ocurrió atenderme el abogado me atendió con muy mala cara , altanero y arrogante al igual que su aspecto desalineado , el gato encima del escritorio ,nada profesional , cuando le dijimos que mi esposo y yo íbamos a retirar el caso y que queríamos que nos regresara nuestro dinero ($1500dolares ) se molestó mucho y me dijo yo ya hice el trabajo y a ver cuánto alcanzas que te regrese , menciono supuesta fecha de corte que él había conseguido y nos quería intimidar diciendo que si sabíamos lo que era retirar el caso y quitar esa fecha de corte metiéndonos miedo de quitarle el caso , y hablándonos de manera muy grocera y con coraje, nosotros platicamos con el de la manera más correcta pero él seguía comportándose sin educación hacia nosotros y hacia nuestra acompañante , le preguntamos entonces cuánto nos vas regresar del dinero que le pagamos y me volvió a decir de manera burlona a ver cuánto alcanzan , y el nunca hizo nada por el caso . Le tuvimos que preguntar hasta cuanto iba a entregar lo que alcanzábamos de dinero dijo en 8 días pero no mencionó ninguna cantidad,
Recibí correo a la casa y me mando solo un cheque por la cantidad de $512.50 , por no hacer nada en el caso y solo por la única visita de cuando él agarró el caso y nunca hizo ningún avance se me un robo e injusticia faltando a su ética profesional.
Tengo pruebas de lo que digo , no cometan
el mismo error de confiar en una persona deshonesta .
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06 Aug, 2024 by Victoria leigh
Great result. Definitely recommend!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Eric gibbs
I was hired by Patrick Benca in Aug 2023 to serve a paper and he does not pay. He has viewed the invoice on QuickBooks but does not pay.
Viewed 13 times
9/1/2023, 5:00:41 PM
10/6/2023, 5:05:17 PM
10/10/2023, 3:41:15 PM
10/24/2023, 6:24:36 PM
10/26/2023, 2:46:05 PM
10/26/2023, 7:50:24 PM
10/27/2023, 11:28:46 AM
11/13/2023, 11:04:09 PM
11/13/2023, 11:08:24 PM
11/29/2023, 3:41:05 PM
1/24/2024, 11:42:21 AM
1/24/2024, 1:49:57 PM
2/5/2024, 7:35:11 AM
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01 Apr, 2024 by Tee graham
If worst lawyer in the world had an award he would win it by a landslide . Don’t spend not a dollar with him ON GOD
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21 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
We had a complicated out of state guardianship case and we are so grateful that we found Cody!
He was knowledgeable and professional and when you email him you can literally sit and wait as his reply will be within minutes. Our family is so grateful for your legal expertise and oh by the way #wewon
Thank you Cody!
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14 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I would of been better off representing myself! He tried to get me to agree on her having every Christmas & bday! He told me that we could just celebrate the day after Christmas! He cared more about trying to be friendly to her lawyer in the court room than defending my rights as a father to my son. Never gave me decent advice on how to handle things. Was always trying to get us to agree to her lawyers rules! If I knew how it really worked I would of gotten so much more! I even had to pay her attorney fees because he neglected to file when we moved it to little rock so her lawyer got there first and made it look like she had to come after me for child support instead of me having to go after rights to see my son. Now I'm stuck with a terrible agreement and very high child support based on my "potential earnings" not what I earn. He gave her evidence to use against me because he doesnt understand family law i guess.
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13 Feb, 2019 by Latonya
Awesome criminal attorney, hands down!!! I contacted almost every criminal attorney in Little Rock, Cody, was my choice. If I ever made a mistake, I can say choosing Cody wasn't one of them! I will say this, "I went from three felonies to two misdemeanors without trial!!!" I know I have said enough...choose Cody! He will contact you and have faith in you. As with any attorney, just tell him the truth, he will handle the rest! Cody is my attorney for life, my family and I love Cody for all he has done!!! I would not dare write this review without mentioning his co-worker, Seth Bowman, two awesome men that know how to get the business handled!!!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a very disappointing experience with Seth L. Bowman. He failed to provide the services I contracted for regarding my speeding ticket and instead instructed me to pay the fine directly. I did not receive the representation I was entitled to, and when I requested a refund, he was rude and even threatened me. I do not recommend his services.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Hello, We have a problem with a case you were supposed to take care of, driver name is mentioned in the email we were communicating. Every time we call, there is no answer and no replies to our last 3 emails. I called court to find out the case status, court said that you failed to appear, there is warrant issued now because you never let us know that we have to pay anything to court, we have a higher than initial fine to pay to court in the amount of 535$, which means you just charged us 500$ for the work that was never done to save the driver's cdl from points. At least never tried to help. We feel very disappointed and we ask that you reimburse our money back.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Kimberly
I have emailed weekly to check in and spoke with this lawyer on the phone sent my information that was requested for an expungement from 20 plus years ago. He has told me every time I checked in he has been in trial or zero time in the office and he would get back to me than he told me after I sent him the notarized authorization history form my papers have been started but not approved this was 7-26-23. I emailed him last week and he has still not replied. I also kept asking him to send me an invoice so I can make a payment. I do have a copy of all emails sent and received.. if your to busy or don’t want to accept my case please do not request personal information and pretend that your working on it I could have hired another lawyer by now and it would be off my record already.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Kathleen alvarado
Many violations of both Malicious Prosecution and Brady Violations. If Daniel Haney is the DA against you, take every precaution. I'm quite certain he is part of a fraudulent law enforcement system in Heber Springs Arkansas.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Madam scientist
LETTER OF COMPLAINT:
OF THE
THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY,
DANIEL HANEY
I think Mr. Haney took advantage of the situation, in that, I was representing myself. For instance, I turned over my entire defense presentation, to Mr. Haney, who I met on the phone 5 days, before my trial. When he called me, he seemed quite nice. I remember, he apologized to me “three times,” for having just, received my case. Also, he said, that he was, "very sorry," he “could not, dismiss my case"… "Because, it's just too late, to dismiss it. Being only days before my trial. It's just, Not Possible,” he told me, for him to dismiss my case, that soon, before my trial.
I thought it was odd, for a D.A. to apologize, to me. But I took it, as a hopeful sign. Not that he would be a pushover; Just that I would have a fair trial. I assured him, that "It’s alright! I don’t want you to dismiss it. I'm looking forward to going to trial. All I really want, is an opportunity to speak my defense. And that is more important to me, than winning or losing. I've wanted to speak my case, from the very beginning, since, no law enforcement person, had yet, allowed me to do so."
Mr. Haney, congratulated me. And he encouraged me, heartily, for defending myself. He said, he encourages everyone to defend themselves, if they feel like, they have something to say, about their situation.
I felt relieved and greatly encouraged, that this “kind man,” would be my D.A.!
Now, I’ll just make a few points about my trial…
1. I sent Mr. Haney, all my defense presentation/discovery, as quickly, as I could complete my documentation. I also, sent him, my three part video…
Including….
a. Evidence of “Police Tampering.” On an unplayable,” DVD, that I had “finally,” received, from the Heber Springs Police Department, after 5 months of requesting it. It was “alledgedly,” the Body Cam Video, from my arrest.
b. Self videos…taken before my arrest, demonstrating my intentions of staying safe and my conscientiousness as a safe driver.
c. My testimony, as I felt it needed to presented.
2. I didn’t receive any discovery, from Mr. Haney, before my trial. However, 4 day afterwards, I noticed that he did email me, the body cam footage, that I had yet to obtain, myself.
It was sent to him by Samantha Tharp, the Chief of Police’s Secretary. So Mr. Haney, emailed me the 3 video files, the day before my trial.
But only "One Day," to receive something like this….that could make or break my case…was far too short of notice, for me, or for anyone. Had I received it sooner…it would have broadened my defense, considerably. The Body Cam Evidence was "Highly Edited"…And it was 100% edited, in the officer’s favor.
3. So, the District Attorney, received it, from the Chief of Police’s secretary, Samantha Tharp. The 3 video files, that have her name on each. Along with the information, that they were "last modified,” right before my trial.
It's impossible to summarize, all the editing done, to this footage. It was a huge undertaking, by more than one officer. It is 100% against me, and of course, all in the officer’s best interests. It was “fairly,” evident, that this “edited version,” was done.. After…the arresting officer, had seen my defense video, that I made for court. Because great care was taken, to erase everything, that I “correctly,” said in my testimony. The "Editors," created, a video, that made me appear stupid, and guilty, of being high. It’s almost, entirely faked in many ways.
And this was "allowed," to be played in court. Without the judge allowing, my own, defense video, to be played. So, the police tampered video, was the D.A.'s main offense in his prosecution. This highly offensive and faked discovery of body cam evidence.
If the body worn camera video footage, was unedited, it would have proved everything, I said, in my video defense
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06 May, 2015 by Vance
Daniel helped us through two cases, one involving a district court and the other against Human Services. In the negotiation during a criminal trial he negotiated that I be prosecuted under an Act where I don't plead guilty and the charges dismissed upon completion of my probation instead of having a record for the rest of my life. The strategy worked to get charges that were pending from DHS dismissed. He is a thorough attorney, and I am thankful he took our case.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Haley smith
She dragged my divorce out with her client, my ex husband and tried to take my daughter from me for no reason other than to win the case. She’s a crooked woman that only wants her money and doesn’t care about what’s best for the child.
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26 May, 2023 by Keisha mcdawn
Does not present cases well. Worst attorney in a hurry to get the case closed and send her bills
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23 Jun, 2022 by Mike jones
He is a real good person and a wonderful lawyer he no his stuff. He is a good lawyer I would recommend him. Give him a call.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Haley smith
She dragged my divorce out with her client, my ex husband and tried to take my daughter from me for no reason other than to win the case. She’s a crooked woman that only wants her money and doesn’t care about what’s best for the child.
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26 May, 2023 by Keisha mcdawn
Does not present cases well. Worst attorney in a hurry to get the case closed and send her bills
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23 Jun, 2022 by Mike jones
He is a real good person and a wonderful lawyer he no his stuff. He is a good lawyer I would recommend him. Give him a call.
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19 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I have worked with Jim for many years both as staff and client and the miniscule reviews listed here are nothing less than ridiculous. He has practiced for over 40 years and if anyone has a complaint it's more than likely due to the person's insistence they do things their way, undoubtedly leading to a bad experience. He knows what he is doing and always has, period.
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09 Sep, 2015 by Cami
Mr Phillips was great. He came recommended from a friend. I had a long nasty divorce. I was paying a female attorney out of Benton, every time I turned around. Worst part was, she didn't do anything in 2 years but file for divorce. She was a money hungry high profile woman who didn't care about me as a person. She must have just seen do$$ar signs in my eyes when she looked at me. Mr Phillips was fairly priced. There is no cheap divorce people. $500 won't get you a good attorney. Believe me! Mr Phillips cared about me as a person and gave me legal guidance that honestly impacted my life today. He was a God sent. It was about 6 months and I was divorced. It was back in 2010. He was compassionate towards myself and my children. A great family man that understands what a marriage Should be like. He put my abusive husband in his place, using the proper legal system. I can't say enough great things about Mr Phillips. I would trust him again and again!
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23 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
He did nothing right. Did not even send in my objections to my divorce order. Many things are now part of my divorce order that I completely disagree with and have from the start.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Lashanta
The professionalism of this attorney is unheard of. I hired this attorney for a simple MVA accicent in June 2020 that was an open and shut case. I was hit from the back and was injured. I followed every step that she told me to and to date the case is not closed. She is not responsive and always has an excuse as to why things are not being handled. Once called out about the behavior she became very belligerent and vindictive. When I would call to ask simple questions she would get rude and try to talk around the issue. Once I emailed her to terminate the agreement she agreed that it was time to end the attorney/ client relationship and that I could pick up my file a few days later. I then get an email from her paralegal stating that I needed to download my file and that The Attorney put a lein on my case. The lien is in attempts to prevent me from settling my case. Once I reached out to her via email regarding the lein she then threatned me with a harrassment charge. I would not reccommend this attorney to anyone. I think she is a good person persay however her perfossionalism is not commendable. I trusted this lady and was highly disappointed especially with she openly confesses to being a woman of the "cloth
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03 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
If I could give her 0 stars I would! She will take your money and never work your case. You have to call her several times in order for her to call you back and when she does she gives excuses as to why nothing has been done. Also, she has NO CLUE about your case when she calls and is so unprepared! Her receptionist also has NO CLUE about your case no matter how many times you call to speak with Angela. She’s a terrible attorney! A liar and I would NOT recommend anyone give her any of their money. She nearly has any reviews out here. Very suspect! Her website is janky and her Facebook and Instagram as well. Stay away!
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12 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
She helped me get out of jail when I had no bond. Excellent attorney! I would hire her again.
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09 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Davis is very unprofessional and a horrible Lawyer. I feel that he did not represent a my case in a professional manner! Maybe it's because it wasn't a case he felt that would put as much money in his pockets as his other cases. Hmm, but I thought if he agreed to take on a case, he should treat it as important as his other cases, but I thought wrong. Again he is a horrible Lawyer and would never recommend him to my worst enemy.
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23 Jun, 2011 by Lamar
This is the perfect lawyer. Thats all i have to say...
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09 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Used for divorce. Came highly recommended. Maybe he was very good once, but he isn't any longer. Totally disorganized. A child visitation hearing was held without Mr. Kidd even informing me, the plaintiff(!); and he agreed to changes to the visitation agreement in ways that I had specifically told him previously that I would not accept. He seemed completely unaware of filings that the opposing council (my ex's lawyer) had made - I had to find them on the Court Connect website and tell HIM about them, instead of the other way around. He is unreachable by phone or email for weeks at a time. I think he has way too many clients / cases - he told me "we have 250 cases going on, so I can't know everything." Don't be #251....
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31 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
He is in Arkansas magazines as awesome, NOT TRUE! A close friend that told me about him, and went with me to meet him. I used him for my divorce, although not listed as his specialty, just says family, he assured me he would be on top of my case. It was awful. My soon to be ex was on the stand lying and I told Kidd during. When it was his turn to question him (ex), he didn't say a thing. Then while I'm being questioned, neither side said a thing about the lies. It was humiliating. I stayed on top on what I owed him and paid all up front and continued to ask what I owed. Was told, face to face, I owed nothing more. Month after divorce final I received a large bill. (I will just leave it at that)
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20 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Jerry Larkowski back in Jan 2013 to handle a probate trust issue regarding my father's death. This attorney failed me miserably. When I hired him I specifically instructed him to remove my brother as trustee based on sufficient grounds of breaching fiduciary duties. Mr. Larkowski agreed and I paid him a $1000 retainer. After reviewing my case, Mr. Larkowski charged me more money. This was OK until he refused to do as I instructed which was to file a simple motion get an emergency hearing before a judge and get my brother removed as trustee. Mr. Larkowski charged for every phone call, e-mail, and consultation visit regarding my case and after $3000+ he refused to do as I asked and began "pushing" me into a deal which only benefited the opposing counsel and my brother (trustee). Mr. Larkowski began having a defeatist attitude and would not obey my instructions and my directives. Mr. Larkowski seemed more concerned about protecting the judicial misconduct of the opposing counsel than getting me a new trustee. After wasting over $3000+ on him. I had no choice but to fire him and find another attorney. I do not recommend Mr. Larkowski to anyone. I believe Mr. Larkowski is more concerned about making money than actually taking care of his clients concerns. I do not want anyone else to suffer the mental anguish I suffered back in 2013. Mr. Larkowski had the ability and the knowledge but refused to do it.
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14 May, 2015 by Jeremy
Just wanted money, once he was paid didn't want to do anything, misrepresented a plea deal to my fiancée and refused to do the honorable thing and fall on his sword, took $15000 and made one appearance, Told her her plea would be 2 years in and it turned out to be 3 because he didn't know the laws.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We wanted to fight for custody. We were ready and motivated. We poured our hearts and souls into the case, thinking he was doing his part too. Only for him to do NOTHING helpful the day of. He spoke to the defendant for maybe 35 seconds and the plaintiff for maybe 2 minute. We left heart broken, blindsided, and feeling betrayed. This was years ago. Maybe he's changed.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
