Lawyers map
>1.3k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
23 Jun, 2021 by William
Just read his real reviews at lawyerRatingz.com and you'll see what you are hiring.
Read more
25 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a difficult case to begin with. I was suing a dealership for a used truck I purchased and had problems with it from the start. The transmission crapped out on me in less than 500 miles as well as other power train problems. Max was very personable and hands on from the beginning. He was straight up with me and always kept me in the loop. He went for the jugular as far as getting the judgement I wanted. He won my lawsuit and made it look easy in the process. Several family members and coworkers referred me to max with high praise and stories of how he got favorable results for them as well. I was happy I chose him as my attorney. Hopefully I won't have need for an attorney ever again but if I do I won't hesitate to go to max for all legal problems. I highly recommend Mr. Max Chotto
Read more
27 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
He was always available. He is knowledgeable. He was compassionate throughout the process, and he was there every step of the way.
Read more
08 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
in the recently released decision from the LA Supreme Court regarding Judge Charlene Day’s suspension, Aidan apparently agreed to notify a 4th grade teacher to come to court and sign a document or be in contempt and go to jail. The report states Aidan agreed to do this but put the wrong email address so the poor teacher was arrested at the elementary school. Sadly she lost her job over the whole thing. Adjectives I think of when I think of Aidan are irresponsible, misleading, ineffective, arrogant, and in my experience, when you ask him about his clear screw ups, he mistakes facts deflects everything on to you!
Hopefully someone has had a good experience but that certainly wasn’t me or that poor 4th grade teacher!!!
Read for yourself!
https://www.lasc.org/opinions/2022/22-0886.O.OPN.pdf
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
My fiancé hired Marcus in May of 2024. They agreed to $10,000 flat fee. My fiancé paid half up front and was supposed to pay $500 monthly. A month later, Marcus was terminated.
In the weeks leading up to Marcus’s termination, he repeatedly told us he was going to call someone for a statement. Marcus said multiple times he made an attempt. The person he was supposed to contact said he never had heard from Marcus. Once the person returned from offshore, eventually Marcus spoke to the person. Marcus had only texted him about speaking in person. Never called like he kept telling us he was doing.
Marcus also made some records request to which he said the people that respond, have 30 days to reply. Almost 45 days later, all Marcus would say when asked on the status of these requests is, “Yeah I’m gonna check on those requests”. He never gave us an update on these requests.
Marcus was scheduled to meet with someone in June 2024. After the meetup and , as Marcus was leaving, I explained how important the case was to our family and how it had adversely affected us. An hour later Marcus texted me. A text I, and others felt was an inappropriate text to send me, his client’s fiancé.
He was fired on June 23rd after he sent an inappropriate text to me. This text was sent while my fiancé had been waiting for hours for an update from Marcus. My fiancé even texted Marcus after his inappropriate text asking for an update, never to get one.
The text said:
“Now all weekend I'm gonna think about you. Wondering how someone so beautiful and so young can lose hope if they saw what I saw”
Marcus also would fail to respond to messages, calls, his business site messaging system. He was not communicative and seemed to not follow through with a lot.
So after Marcus’s firing, Marcus billed us for $5000. We are out all this money and starting from scratch. That’s $5000 we borrowed. A bar complaint has been filed. If attorney’s can screw over their clients and take their money so quickly, then I’m afraid to ever hire an attorney again.
*I consulted Marcus outside of Avvo and want to shed light on his practices.*
Read more
28 Sep, 2023 by Chasitie
Mr. Myers is a highly reliable attorney with a broad mindset on resolving cases.
He is very straightforward and realistic on any and all routes a case can go, but also prepares for any of those routes as well.
He works endlessly getting cases closed with your best interest as priority.
Also, consistently ready to assist with any other legal matters that come about.
Mr. Myers isn't only for criminal defense but also covers an array of many other legal obstacles you may encounter, from criminal to car accidents.
You don't know unless you ask so I would strongly recommend asking Mr. Marcus Myers for legal advice or even enrolling him as you, or a loved ones, attorney.
Read more
01 May, 2017 by Sara anderson
I went to jail on 2 felonies and 4 misdemeanor and had court appointed lawyer which was him. He consulted with me a few times called for quiestions he had and when we went to court ne had everything dropped except one felony and got me 3 years supervised probation and no jail time. He dobe a very good job for me i would recommend him.
Read more
24 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mrs, Kalores failed to make sure the suite filed against me was going to be seen in court timely. I appeared with her on the initial court hearing date to find that the opposing party's attorney had filed for a continuance. She had no notice of the continuance. Then she received a court date from the opposing attorney for the continuance. We showed for the date to find there was nothing on the docket for my case. She blindly accepted the word of the opposing party's attorney. The attorney filed a continuance, but did not set a date. She allowed the opposing attorney to waste time and use up time. I feel my case wasn't important to her, she did not stay on top of the case.
Read more
08 Sep, 2023 by Christophe faucheux
I worked with Robert for several years and he handled some referral work for my company. I always saw him treat clients fairly and go the extra mile. Robert has been in practice for nearly 50 years and he is well known for helping those those most vulnerable and in need. Robert is a good attorney and we trust him to handle any work that is outside our practice area.
Read more
06 Aug, 2022 by Tiffany collins
I will never deal with Robert again I will never send anyone to him he been dealing with my case for 2 years and I never receive my money he been giving me false information he also told me he was going to press charges on me if I keep calling checking on my case I pay him for working for me and he wanted to press charges on me for calling him about my case he is not a good lawyer
Read more
17 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Lori Graham TOOK my money and presented in court as the worst attorney I have ever dealt with. First of all, she does not return phone calls. Her secretary, paralegal or whatever title they have, did not know anything about my case. When she finally returned my call, she acted like I was disturbing her. She was very rude. When we did go to court, it was like it was her first time hearing about my case. She was not prepared and I did not get the ruling I was expecting. Six months later, I had to hire another attorney, pay more fees, to get the proper representation I deserve. THANKS FOR NOTHING MS. GRAHAM. I would not refer anyone to Ms. Graham.
Read more
19 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I was trying to get custody of my child, and Attorney Graham was there for me every step of the way. Her fees were reasonable, and she fought hard to prove why my child should be with me!! I work hard, and I do all that I can for my children! She saw the best in me, and believed in me and my kids. I was granted custody, and we are so happy to tell the world about the hoops and the ropes pulled to prove that my child is with who she belongs with. Child support was not the issue, I did not mind paying that. The point was, I did not like my child out in the streets all of the time, and neither did my child. The school that my child attends informed the judge that I was a super dad, and always available when they called. I am just thrilled that this attorney Mrs. Lori Graham was able to make it happen!! Forever Grateful!! Get you an attorney that cares, and she does. !!!
Read more
26 May, 2016 by Anonymous
This lady handled a child custody case for us and it cost us a LOT of money. The judgement did not reflect what was ordered in court and even though we told her about the mistake she wanted a whole new retainer to deal with it. Even though it was a mistake that was made and she should have noticed, if she had taken the time to read it. The child support was also calculated incorrectly and when this was brought to her attention she was dismissive. She was not very agressive in court when it was needed and she left me high and dry. They served me again at a later date and because what the judge said was not reflected in the orginal statement it cost us thousands. Please do NOT use this lawyer, she is only interested in getting a retainer.. her secretary is rude and very inpolite. Find someone else.
Read more
18 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
They clearly don’t go by a persons will and didn’t make sure the correct way was done according to the Will. When called to say things didn’t go as Will said it was like so what your lose not to mention rude when you call and say something didn’t go down like the Will was written don’t use these people at all you will get screwed it was all about getting their money that’s it. No justice was done according to how the deceased person wanted it. If a Will is written up don’t mean that’s how you will get your part in the dividing of what will says
Read more
27 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
David has been doing legal work for me and our family for years. The entire firm is extremely professional and knowledgeable on main legal matter. Without a doubt, I would highly recommend David and his firm for all legal matter.
Read more
12 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I have been a client of Mr. White's for about 15 years. He has represented me in several different legal matters and I have been extremely impressed with his representation each time. I have recommended Mr. White to numerous friends and family members, all of whom have been equally as satisfied with his legal services. Mr. White is very knowledgeable, reasonable, and well-respected by other members of the legal community.
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by Sydney campbell
19 Jul, 2023 by Jude
Improperly serving the public should be a felony offense.
Read more
07 Jun, 2023 by Donna wittner
warren said my 14 yr old son accidentally shot himself execution style to the back of his head with a rifle. They refused to test my son for GSR or test the gun for prints. Jesus said if you have done it unto one of my children you have done it unto me. Shame on the 22nd judicial!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Read more
15 Nov, 2020 by Joe
No answer when I call
Read more
31 Oct, 2020 by Brenda ourso
04 Aug, 2020 by Trey chavers
Never answers phone and hard to communicate with
Read more
11 Apr, 2023 by Emma black
23 Nov, 2021 by Timothy elhage
Great service
Read more
04 Nov, 2021 by Cindy woodward
Hes the man with a plan
Read more
11 May, 2024 by Vincent brown
25 May, 2022 by Timothy hammons
16 Jun, 2018 by Trina hannon
Poor
Read more
23 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
She provided poor advice with regard to property settlement details. She advised it would be ok to agree to give my ex spouse half of my retirement because I could get an equal amount from his social security when I retired. This is NOT the case....I am unable to claim ANY of his social security benefits. This is causing significant financial hardship for me.
Read more
06 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I filed for divorce on grounds of abuse. When I hired Joan, she advised me not to seek our local women's shelter, the Haven, for assistance and further stated I had better resources with current life coach and my children's counselor. She on multiple levels did not properly represent me and my children as her client and for an expensive amount @ $10,000. She has in result endangered myself and my children. As without the proper guidance from professionals in domestic violence she advised not to seek, I have been exposed to two more abusive relationships after my divorce, one with a current protective order. My children have been exposed to extreme child alienation from my ex spouse I highly do not recommend Joan as she clearly cannot be trusted to properly represent on her client's behalf.
Read more
23 Aug, 2015 by Kayla
Joan Malbrough was my attorney for my divorce and custody. I told her what I wanted and we discussed my options. When it went to court, she grilled my ex over his lies and lack of involvement in our child's life. I could not have asked for a better attorney and plan to hire her again when I take my ex back to court!!!
Read more
16 Aug, 2023 by Tristanie betineli
don’t waste your time!
Read more
09 Dec, 2020 by Paul ruffin
25 Jan, 2020 by Stacey bailey
27 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
My boyfriend battered me in the midst of just waking out of a dream and I do understand that. I called the police. He is now in Jail. He goes in front of a Judge today and told me his lawyer is NOT going to be there bc " he doesn't need to be.". I am the Victim and I am going to show support and explain what had happened. I know my boyfriend is worried sick that the Court system might give him time and that is worrying he shouldn't be doing bc as it says on Alan Black"s webpage.... "From Stevie Wonder- Don't Worry About a Thing and he "has your back!".
Oh yeah? Where?
Read more
10 Mar, 2020 by Ruzoo penalo
09 May, 2024 by Afraid
GINGER WEST JOHNSON supports and promotes domestic violence towards blk women. As long as you have the money she will lie to Judges and put our lives at risk. She’s DANGEROUS and most definitely in cahoots with Judge Kathleen they both need to be investigated. My family member was choked and beaten up for years and finally had the courage to leave. Ginger Johnson told the Judge because of my family members’ profession she should have known to just leave. That’s completely RIDICULOUS but what’s even more RIDICULOUS the Judge denied the protective order and refused to take 15 guns from a Convicted Felon. If my family member my mom my son those children or myself are killed our blood will be on BOTH their hands.
Read more
20 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Unfortunately there is no option for a negative star rating for this lawyer.
She was paid to represent me in a divorce case. During this case, she provided little to no usable legal advice and did not keep me advised as to the status of the case during negotiations or appear to have my interests in mind.
The required check for spousal support and all property agreed upon during the hearing was delivered to the opposing attorney before the divorce documents were finalized. This created a situation which allowed the opposing attorney to add additional demands after I understood this this fiasco was done.
I had to employ a second lawyer to adequately finalize the legal work Ms. Ginger West Johnson was apparently unable to complete.
Read more
16 Jul, 2015 by Doug
Ginger Johnson of Shreveport, LA was paid $6000.00 up front for a child support Not a custody case. Which she delayed the court hearing because she wasn't ready resulting in support going up and back dated to when she postponed the first hearing which cost me another $7000.00, She burned up all the money researching information that did not pertain to my case. In court she was the biggest failure possible did not show the judge any of the paperwork she should of, she wouldn't speak up and represent me as I had paid her for her duty. Then she sends me a bill stating I owe more money and if I did not pay in full by end of month she would send to collections.
Read more
28 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Lazy is an understatement. This lady should not be allowed to educate law students. You have to constantly contact her to insist that she files documents in timely matter IF she answers or returns your call. Very costly for absolutely NOTHING. I hired Cynthia Reed to file my divorce as a result of her laziness, my divorce was granted in favor of the defendant because she did not answer his response to MY petition for divorce within the 15 days given by LAW (which she teaches) go figure. Of course all monies were due prior to filing, so things I requested in my petition weren't granted bc I was held in preliminary default. She worked against me, on my dime. Divorce was one of the hardest trials of my entire life. To go through something so life changing, you definitely want someone who has your best interest in mind. Don't hire Cynthia Reed.
Read more
19 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
She does not answer phone calls or respond to them in a timely manner. You have to call her for everything and she will only keep you in circles. She’s lazy and basically wants you to do everything yourself.
Read more
22 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
She was utterly unprepared for trial. In addition to her practice she teaches at the SUBR law school. All of our meetings took place here. I should have known when she missed an appointment that she had previously scheduled a d the rescheduled that she wasn't taking my case seriously, but she had agreed to a very cost effective retainer and I already had a trial date set. Although I filed for a custody agreement and made my goals clear, she ultimately didn't seem to be on my side. It felt more so that she was in favor of the mother getting custody that I should be satisfied with anything since I previously had nothing. I would not recommend her to anyone for a family court/father's rights case.
Read more
29 Dec, 2021 by Dehaven
My name is DeHaven Duronslet and I hired attorney John Allen to represent me in a child support, child custody and community property case. I paid him in full $2,500.00 before anything was done. Allow me to testify about John Allen. This man did nothing, while my ex-wife lied about not having employment to try to increase the child support amount. The majority of times I tried to contact him on his personal cell phone or his office phone, calls were not returned. He also as a married flirted with my ex-wife while in court trying to get with her. I feel sorry for his wife. He blatantly lied to my face about filing a petition or motion to retrieve my firearms from the DAs office. When I asked, had he filed the motion he told me yes, however when I called the DAs office 3 months later the District Attorneys office informed there was no such motion. This man is the worst attorney I have ever come in contact with and he should be disbarred for negligence, inappropriate conduct with the opposing side and incompetence. I do not recommend this attorney for anyone.
I hope he sees this review and has a problem with it. Maybe this will inspire him to return my phone call.
I will be contacting the Bar Association.
Read more
28 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I'm sorry but you haven't did anything that your client asked and there's always an excuse and promises were never made by this man , he or his off doesn't stay in contact .He has is terrible on picking up on calls and I feel as though he truly did nothing for his client. He was being paid and not doing anything the client is upset and wants a repsond
Read more
25 Feb, 2021 by Justin
David Michael Williams has been ineffective in preparation for trial and pre-trial of the allegations against me and did not attend my court appointed hearings until after I filed a complaint with the Public Defender’s office. The only options David Michael Williams provided me was a plea bargain and later PTI only after filing complaints with the Public Defender’s office. David Michael Williams has no opinion or refuses to give his opinion of the allegations against me in relation to the evidence held by the Office of the District Attorney. David Michael Williams did not wish to represent me and has continued to lie and work against my best interests. He has refused to advocate on my behalf and has offered to pay my PTI expenses of $750 if I will accept PTI, higher insurance rates and go to classes. David Michael Williams stated cases rarely make it to trial and he is unsure of how to proceed. He has also stated that this case is “over his head” and that he doesn’t have sufficient time to work on my case.
Read more
26 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
She was totally uninterested in my case, she told what was going to happen in court but did not do anything she said she would do and I was found guilty. Do not use this joke of an attorney. She is also rude and defensive.
Read more
05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
My husband and I hired Mr. Chester James Rothkamm to represent our teenage granddaughter in a criminal case, he refused to visit her to listen to her side of the argument, refuse to deliver document she was entitled to , waved her right to a speedy trial, never returned our calls and did not get an affordable reduction of bail. I asked him to withdraw from case after we paid more than we had agreed to ,and he did not, he started to ask my granddaughter for money by sending letters of request to our home. My granddaughter has been in jail without Trial since January 31, 2012 and we just another continuance until November 16, 2015 for another continuance because of Mr. Rothkamm waving her rights to a speedy trial.
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Johnson, I had so much respect for you because you said that you was working in my son favorite as his attorney. But I found out that that was a lie you never tried to work for my child, it was all about the money. Once you got that ten thousand dollars you sold my son off like a nasty rag, my son has never been in trouble with the law he only had traffic tickets. And you lied to me and said that he got the years that he had been locked up for , time for good behavior and sixty five percent all deducted from fifteen years. And everything you said was a lied and I’m not going to sit down and let this lied cause my son to sit down all locked up over a lie. I didn’t pay you $10,000 for my son to serve 15 years you told me that 65 % was taken off and then 3. 75 years was being taken off for time served and 1 year for good behavior which would leave him 4.4 years. Now tell me what happened with all this that you said. I’m about to take this father. I don’t do liars and I don’t like to be taken for a fool. I see I chose the wrong lawyer he don’t work for his clients it’s about him
Read more
09 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
It was a fact that when I consulted Mr. Jollisaint, he dragged the consultation for 2.5 hours. I waited and waited for him to discuss my real concern but he would cut me off and continue to read the petition SLOWLY. He kept pushing the irrelevant, hearsay and false accusations of the other party like emails to lawyer which are not a real emergency and not in compliance with Article 3945 Rule. He had no interest to have the false ex parte petition cancelled or quashed when there was no valid emergency in their petition as the the plaintiff's petition itself stated that there's no harm to the child under my care. He took advantage of my fear/trauma in the situation and my need for a lawyer. It was also a fact that not only he failed to determine that the Ex Parte Petition of the other party was NOT A REAL EMERGENCY but he also called the opposition's lawyer to DRAG and CONTINUE the case for 6 more months without informing me about his plan and when in fact, it can be settled on the HOC which was a week away. I called him within 24 hours from the time of the consultation to inform him that I did not want to retain him. He took $250 for the phone conversation prior to the consultation and another $750 just for a consultation from the retainers fee when I cancelled retaining him. He took $1000 total from the retainer fee for doing nothing. Some family lawyers offer free consultation or charges between $50--$300 per consultation and limit the consultation for about an hour. They also charge them consultation fee upfront and tell clients upfront that they charge for the consultation and not after they already talked to them and they cannot undo conversation. It was like a trap. If you are thinking of having a consultation with him or hiring him.. RUN!!
Read more
16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
eye had a terrible experience with this lawyer he DID NOT do what he said he was going do then he went ghost when eye had questions and concerns
Read more
09 Apr, 2022 by Katherine
This attorney was totally useless. Took 2 years to get my case settled , only to have the same outcome if it was handled immediately. He is rude and sarcastic at times. He does return calls is the only good thing I can say. Finally , the day I had to go to court, he sent a fill in attorney WITHOUT notifying me. I found out seconds before appearing before the judge that I had a replacement attorney who I never met before. Very uncomfortable. Same outcome with or without attorney. He also laughed when I told him my license was suspended and I didn’t realize since no one informed me. He needs to retire. .
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Karlee viator
witness coordinator was highly insensitive and crudely asked me to describe the crime i was a victim of rather than just look up the case i was referring to
Read more
09 Jun, 2022 by Meagan hudson
I'll change this when Quawan Charles gets justice.
Read more
15 Mar, 2021 by Juan vargas
23 Sep, 2024 by Emma
I cannot recommend Harry Daniel under any circumstances. I engaged his services to file a post-conviction motion on my behalf, but he failed to follow up on the documents he submitted, allowing three years to pass without any communication.
It was only through my own research that I discovered the court had lost the necessary documents. Mr. Daniels remained unaware of this situation, as he did not check the status of my post-conviction filing. For three years, I was incarcerated under the false assumption that my paperwork had been properly submitted, while it had actually been misplaced by the court clerk. His lack of diligence and professionalism resulted in my prolonged incarceration.
When I inquired about the delay in processing my post-conviction, Mr. Daniels assured me that my paperwork was on the judge's desk and waiting for review. This statement was misleading.
Due to my limited understanding of legal procedures, I unfortunately accepted his assertions as truth. Consequently, I had to undertake the process of filing my own post-conviction motion from prison, as Mr. Daniels refused to rectify this situation. I have since filed a formal complaint against him with the Disciplinary Counsel. Additionally, he charged me significantly more than the standard rate for filing my post-conviction motion, and he has consistently avoided my calls, leaving me uninformed about the status of my case.
I strongly advise against seeking Mr. Daniels' services.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Louisiana - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
New Orleans
-
Baton Rouge
-
Metairie
-
Lafayette
-
Shreveport
-
Lake Charles
-
Covington
-
Mandeville
-
Monroe
-
Gretna
-
Alexandria
-
Houma
-
Slidell
-
Kenner
-
Hammond
-
New Iberia
-
Thibodaux
-
Bossier City
-
Gonzales
-
Opelousas
-
Natchitoches
-
Denham Springs
-
River Ridge
-
Prairieville
-
Madisonville
-
Ruston
-
Marksville
-
Chalmette
-
Belle Chasse
-
Harvey
-
West Monroe
-
Plaquemine
-
Zachary
-
Abbeville
-
Pineville
-
CROWLEY
-
Harahan
-
Ponchatoula
-
La Place
-
Port Allen
-
Leesville
-
Ville Platte
-
Amite
-
Breaux Bridge
-
Livingston
-
Marrero
-
New Roads
-
Morgan City
-
Destrehan
-
Deridder
-
Eunice
-
Franklin
-
Benton
-
Jennings
-
Luling
-
Minden
-
Saint Francisville
-
Sulphur
-
Youngsville
-
Bogalusa
-
Broussard
-
bastrop
-
Jefferson
-
Baker
-
Rayville
-
Saint Martinville
-
Vidalia
-
Mansfield
-
Many
-
Oakdale
-
Franklinton
-
Jena
-
Winnsboro
-
Abita Springs
-
Columbia
-
Folsom
-
Walker
-
Donaldsonville
-
Laplace
-
Tallulah
-
Farmerville
-
Homer
-
Reserve
-
Sunset
-
Winnfield
-
Clinton
-
Ferriday
-
Jackson
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Louisiana
-
Business
-
Personal Injury
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Insurance
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Car Accident
-
Civil Rights
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Workers Compensation
-
Probate
-
Class Action
-
Tax
-
Consumer Protection
-
Wrongful Death
-
Intellectual Property
-
Child Custody
-
Bankruptcy
-
Mediation
-
Immigration
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Debt Collection
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Elder Law
-
Child Support
-
Trusts
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Entertainment
-
Adoption
-
Divorce
-
Domestic Violence
-
Discrimination
-
Juvenile Law
-
Federal Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Employment / Labor
-
Foreclosure
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Sex Crime
-
Construction
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Debt Settlement
-
Environmental Law
-
Copyright Application
-
Drug Crime
-
Life Insurance
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Constitutional Law
-
Education Law
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
