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15 Mar, 2024 by J baker
Will talk you into giving her more money for a case in another matter and then will abandon you and tell you to settle. Sara has a good case in her office but does not bring that to the court room.
Sara will leave you with the worst case scenario as your best option.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Judy pressley
17 Feb, 2023 by Liz johnson
16 Apr, 2021 by Kay
I hired Sarah in October 2019 to Fight for Custody of my grandson. I, myself was a paralegal for over 25 years. I wanted an Attorney who would put in the time to build a strong case for court. This case was very complicated and I knew I needed a competent, fearless, fighting Attorney with the knowledge, determination, and determination to fight for my grandson. Attorney Sara Roberts and her assistant, Leah are two of the best professional people I have ever met. They both kept me informed at all times of any new developments in my case. If ever I had a question, it was answered in a very timely manner. I know firsthand how hectic it can be for an attorney or paralegal to return phone calls, so patience is a virtue in all legal cases. Because of Sarah and Leah, I now have full custody of my grandson. There are no words to express how much I appreciate each of them.
Having an attorney for your legal issues is like having a Doctor, if you follow their advice and work with them for the betterment of your issues, the end results are in your favor. So for the ones who put negative remarks about Attorney Roberts or her assistant, it would appear that your end results are due to you not following her advice.
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27 Jan, 2021 by Josh
Ms.Roberts is a very good lawyer and does a outstanding job with criminal cases I was very pleased with the way she handled my case.
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01 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Sara is very experienced and knowledgeable about criminal law. She was exceptional and far exceeded my expectations handling my case.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bruce green
19 Mar, 2024 by Clark & clark legal assistant
The receptionist isn't friendly or professional and provided incorrect information to our client's mother. She told her that they were forbidden from accepting documents from anyone but attorneys. What about pro se defendants? It's horrible to tell people anything just to get them out of our face. Additional incorrect information was provided again when my assistant called. Finally, I called. The same incorrect information was being provided. When called on it, the receptionist put me on hold repeatedly and then finally referred me to the Sherrff's office (another wrong answer) when I asked for a supervising Chief ADA or Assistant Chief for those who handle the bond calendars. These calls were over 3 days. So, we are unsure if the same person was answering our questions or if there're are several untrained people answering the phone providing the public with misinformation.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jerome fleming
Not worth a damn.
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29 Sep, 2012 by Mr. montgomery
Veronica Brinson handled our case with skills and expertise. She is very accessible to her clients and she can fairly handle difficult parties.
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14 Aug, 2009 by Yolanda
On the surface, Ms. Brinson appears to be professional. However, once she received our retainer, the service went down from there. She was often unreachable. She refused to return calls, she did not honor her commitments and her knowledge of the law seemed questionable. Our case dragged on for 2 additional months simply because she was not aware of the appropriate actions to take to get our case before the judge. I had to contact the Judge's office myself and then instruct Ms. Brinson as to how she should proceed. During our hearing, the judge actually offered her instruction regarding the quality of work submitted to him. She presents herself as a professional and experienced attorney, but once you get to meet her in person, you will see that it's just for appearances. She was an incredible disappointment and unprofessional. Use this attorney at your own risk. She is probably one of the cheaper attorneys in Macon, but just remember that you get what you pay for. We paid in so many other ways because we chose to use her services.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Mary tucker
20 Dec, 2023 by Gujarati lovers
You give jobs for approval
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15 Dec, 2023 by H jsjsn
stephen mcdaniel 🤤🤤
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19 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I chose Keith Fitzgerald based on reviews online and he was not everything his profile claims. My case drug on for nearly two years during which time, Mr. Fitzgerald failed to disclose his previous relationship to Connie Williford, the superior court judge who was handling the trial. I found that information out on my own. Keith was very confident in the beginning only to "give up" at the end. There were many occasions that Mr. Fitzgerald failed to notify me of dates and times when I should appear in court and when I shouldn't appear but showed up since no one told me not to. Mr. Fitzgerald should have recused himself from my case based on his affiliation with Judge Williford, better yet, Judge Williford should have recused herself from the entire fiasco based on her past, which she tearfully disclosed in court at sentencing. The bar association will also be getting this information as well as the attorney general and the governor.
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30 Jul, 2018 by Matt
After reading the previous review, I had to compose my own review of Keith’s fantastic work because I believe the person prior is really upset at the court’s system and doesn’t know it. Keith has handled a couple different cases for me from serious felony to motion hearings and has absolutely delivered in all scenarios. Keith is the definition of a well-respected and well-learned attorney. He maintains great relationships with all DAs, Judges, and others in his field and works well within the law to properly provide top service to his clients while guarneteeing them protection of their constitutional rights. Keith is also a remarkable trial attorney with more Not Guilty verdicts than I could count. The transparency is amazing, communication is great and he tells you like it is. He will not promise you something that he does not believe is true, he will not mislead or give you false hope. He is so brutally honest that it is almost worrisome, but he is that way because he wants you to be aware and involved throughout the whole process. I have referred many other people to Keith and they have all been 100% satisfied with his service. Keith Fitzgerald is a leading example of how every attorney should practice law and work with clients.
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05 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
The DUI charge was dismissed after 14 months from the bullshit arrest because the Houston County DA reviewed the case 3 days before the jury trial date and knew that he'd lose. The whole case was absolutely ridiculous and it should have been dismissed at the beginning. Keith should have stressed this more with Arthur (DA) and had the case dismissed. I was sent a bill after the case was dismissed that was out of scope from the legal contract. I called him on it and told him to drop the matter. He should be embarrassed for even trying to gouge me. I do know how to read; duh.
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17 May, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Burnette failed to have my ex-wife served on time. Three weeks went by before she was served with my motion to modify custody. In court, he forgot many of the pieces of evidence I gave him, so when they were introduced by my ex-wife's lawyer, Mr. Burnette was not able to properly respond.
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28 May, 2010 by Gayle
Very smart lawyer, but VERY POOR communicator. NEVER returns phone calls; questions, information etc.
I felt like I was a fly on his food. Shop around.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Keita
Hired him to do my brother case and he took the money never showed for court never went to visit him also the lack of communication with me I ask for my money back since he did not represent my brother he promised to pay but did not make any attempts to do do I will be filing a state bar complaint and a litigation case ASAP
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04 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
HE WILL GET YOUR MONRY AND BLOCK YOU. I have no idea how he sleeps at night .
DO NOT GIVE THIS MAN YOUR MONEY
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25 May, 2024 by Lex
Don't answer his phone. Tell liars saying he talk to the solicitor and she didn't know I had a lawyer. He didn't do anything to help me at all but took my money after he showed up an hour later. He really need to be Disbared.
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19 Aug, 2024 by No
Poor communicator.
Won’t give you your paperwork back if you fire him even though you are entitled to it, he didn’t even know I had all the papers that I did have, said he would look for it and now he is not communicative back once again. Child custody matter has been going on for close to 3 years, he doesn’t wanna fight in court, he wants to play a defense mode and won’t fight for you no matter how good your case is. VERY POOR COMMUNICATION.
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20 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr.Bradley in early 2016 and here it is almost a year later, now January 2017 and still have NOTHING resolved!!!! This is a custody battle between my ex and I. Not even visitation has been established! Now I have no choice but to spend more money and hire a better lawyer... Do NOT waste your precious time or money on this man!
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13 Jan, 2015 by Joel
I hired Kevin Bradley in late 2009 to handle a child support matter. We had a jury trial and the jury came down on my side. Judge Lamar Sizemore asked Kevin Bradley to expedite the writing of the final Order so that he could sign it before he retired. A full 3.5 years went by and the Order was not written. After sending him a certified letter threatening legal action, he wrote it. I then discovered I had paid more than $3800 dollars in excess support. You may save money in the beginning because his retainer is low, but you will pay more in the long run because he only cares about your retainer. DO NOT HIRE KEVIN BRADLEY!
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23 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Unsure how she got endorsements unless these are just good friends of hers. If she already has a private practice and considers herself doing charity work through the public defenders office, she is doing a poor job. She does not return calls. When she does speak with the client, she doesn't even know their charges. An attorney that doesn't respond for months is not a good attorney. An attorney who doesn't let their clients know what's going on with their case is not a good attorney. Convince me otherwise. I encourage you to do so.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
