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25 Oct, 2024 by Hugo hernández h.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Brighid peyton
I have worked with attorney Christopher Welch and know him to be an extremely intelligent attorney who really cares for his clients. I certainly recommend him to anyone needing a skilled and dedicated attorney!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Leslee c
Attorney Christopher Welch is amazing to work with, I appreciate his diligence and hard work. I would trust Mr. Welch with any case I may need assistance with. I highly recommend Mr. Welch!
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10 Aug, 2024 by Melissa torres
Motivated and driven.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Michel ortega
Jair alvare es un abogado muy profesional y tiene la experiencia y nació con un talento de leyes parami es el mejor abogado y es responsable con sus clientes y todas personas alluda y regresa tu llamada y apoya toda la comunidad hispana
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29 Jun, 2024 by Christian s
Jair is a great lawyer. The claims by Alec Hogoboom are pure fiction, and Alec ought to be in jail.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Michael
Professional, helpful, and honest throughout the entire court process my cases are resolved in the best way
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12 Jan, 2022 by Anthony haas
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15 Oct, 2021 by Maria espino
Buen abogado me ayudo en mi caso y buen ser humano y es accesible con el pago lo recomiendo como abogado
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01 Oct, 2024 by Haroon
just pure class from the giesens
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18 Feb, 2024 by Brian and nessa lawler
Great attorney
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11 Dec, 2022 by Ed rodell
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10 Sep, 2024 by Greg hammond
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. I have personally worked with both Joe Bugni and Marcus Berghahn, and they have exceeded all expectations. They are highly knowledgeable and effective, fighting for outcomes that would not have been possible otherwise. Beyond their legal expertise and tenacity, Joe and Marcus have shown remarkable compassion and genuine care for our situation. These are top-notch lawyers and exceptional human beings. I am profoundly grateful to both of them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alene bridges
Joe Bugni is amazing! Trinity as well. I'm so thankful for meeting such wonderful people and finding thee BEST lawyer around. Thank you Joe!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marlo mall
By far the best!! This law firm is honestly amazing!! Joseph Bugni and paralegal Trinity are beyond fantastic at their jobs. They care more about helping people than the money, and it clearly shows. I promise you'll never go to another firm again!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Greg hammond
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. I have personally worked with both Joe Bugni and Marcus Berghahn, and they have exceeded all expectations. They are highly knowledgeable and effective, fighting for outcomes that would not have been possible otherwise. Beyond their legal expertise and tenacity, Joe and Marcus have shown remarkable compassion and genuine care for our situation. These are top-notch lawyers and exceptional human beings. I am profoundly grateful to both of them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alene bridges
Joe Bugni is amazing! Trinity as well. I'm so thankful for meeting such wonderful people and finding thee BEST lawyer around. Thank you Joe!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marlo mall
By far the best!! This law firm is honestly amazing!! Joseph Bugni and paralegal Trinity are beyond fantastic at their jobs. They care more about helping people than the money, and it clearly shows. I promise you'll never go to another firm again!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Greg hammond
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. I have personally worked with both Joe Bugni and Marcus Berghahn, and they have exceeded all expectations. They are highly knowledgeable and effective, fighting for outcomes that would not have been possible otherwise. Beyond their legal expertise and tenacity, Joe and Marcus have shown remarkable compassion and genuine care for our situation. These are top-notch lawyers and exceptional human beings. I am profoundly grateful to both of them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alene bridges
Joe Bugni is amazing! Trinity as well. I'm so thankful for meeting such wonderful people and finding thee BEST lawyer around. Thank you Joe!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marlo mall
By far the best!! This law firm is honestly amazing!! Joseph Bugni and paralegal Trinity are beyond fantastic at their jobs. They care more about helping people than the money, and it clearly shows. I promise you'll never go to another firm again!
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13 Mar, 2024 by Meredith peterson
Amazing! She listened, consulted the attorneys right then on the phone, gave in depth details of what to expect, was very kind and understanding of my situation! Could not recommend more!!
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17 Nov, 2023 by Sara chase
Stay far away from this firm and attorney heather jones. She doesn’t listen, always feels she is the smartest person in the room And when Shown her mistakes instead of answering the questions, she fires you as a client. Olr investigated her personally as well as the firm. Don’t hire
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06 Nov, 2023 by Tyler henry
Ryan is awesome! It makes a big difference to have someone with positive energy answer the phone and make you feel heard. Most law firms make you feel like you’re a bother to them when you call but not this one! Ryan- you’re a wonderful representation of the firm.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Kenneth lloyd
Boardman & Clark was great and I would recommend attorney Gartzke for dissolving family matters.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Shar hermanson
What a beautiful location
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31 Jul, 2023 by Thomas oguinn
Great lawyers and staff
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10 Sep, 2024 by Greg hammond
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. I have personally worked with both Joe Bugni and Marcus Berghahn, and they have exceeded all expectations. They are highly knowledgeable and effective, fighting for outcomes that would not have been possible otherwise. Beyond their legal expertise and tenacity, Joe and Marcus have shown remarkable compassion and genuine care for our situation. These are top-notch lawyers and exceptional human beings. I am profoundly grateful to both of them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alene bridges
Joe Bugni is amazing! Trinity as well. I'm so thankful for meeting such wonderful people and finding thee BEST lawyer around. Thank you Joe!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marlo mall
By far the best!! This law firm is honestly amazing!! Joseph Bugni and paralegal Trinity are beyond fantastic at their jobs. They care more about helping people than the money, and it clearly shows. I promise you'll never go to another firm again!
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15 Dec, 2023 by Rhonda
If you need a lawyer, call Atty Visser!! Just chatting with her, she will put your mind at ease! We have hired her for more than one issue, and I highly recommend her! If she doesn't have an answer, she won't stop until she finds one. Her knowledge of the law is phenomenal and I wish we would have found her years ago! She will absolutely fight for you! Thank you, Kira for going the extra mile!!
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29 Sep, 2023 by Abse
Kira has been helping me out on a number of fronts for the last 9 months. She comes across as highly empathetic and she is a great listener. She is going to be a great advocate for you in times of crises. She guides you correctly and has an excellent knowledge of the law. Don’t underestimate her due to her young age and her stoic demeanor. Underneath that monotonous tone and unflappable temperament lies a sharp legal mind. Though my case is not done yet, I am expecting a favorable outcome since Kira is on my side. I will recommend her highly.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Lizbeth
I hired Kira Visser after I hired another attorney who wanted me to plead guilty and do 3years probation, she refused to listen to me. I almost lost everything. I am so very grateful for her that she turned it around and was able to help me beat my case. I highly recommend her to anyone.
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10 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Duren is a masterclass in real estate law with expansive comprehension of the field. He is strategic in court, even when you least expect it, from jury selection to closing argument. He easily dominated opposing counsel, yet was able to endear himself to the juror, when he successfully represented me in a real estate dispute that went to trial. I found his expertise to be money well-spent.
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15 May, 2015 by Christine
I hired Chris 3 years ago to assist me with FSBO transaction. He responded in a timely way to my needs, his place of business was a nice setting but when I say the transaction was all business, I mean it was all business in an almost uncomfortable way. Let me give an example: I recently contacted Chris by email to hire him to assist with the sale of my home. I sent a personable email greeting him and reminding him that I used his services 3 years ago. I let him know I was interested in hiring him to assist with the sale of my home and how much it would cost. I received an one word(number) email back saying - "$750.00" That is it. So I sent a one word email back saying "no". Thought maybe he would get that is no way to treat a returning customer and you could at the very lest great them in a professional business email but I got no reply from him. Our office visits were about as personable as his email.
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07 Apr, 2015 by Chris
Chris Duren is a owner and operator of Wisconsin Title Group, LLC, who offered me truly commendable legal services. He is aggressively represented his clients at every level of the state.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Asim batajoo
Attorney Bob Hurley was professional, punctual, and honest.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Alex welsh
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tj haas
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17 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney fell asleep during initial consultation. Took a huge retainer for a complicated divorce case and did not filed motions appropriately or in a timely manner. He does not have any paralegals or staff working in his office. He missed important deadlines for my case that cost me more money to hire a different attorney to correct the mistakes of this representation. Most of his filings contained errors and misspellings. He comes to the hearings unprepared and hardly defended me in the 2 hearings he appeared in. He made a lot of promises and did not deliver as promised. He was involved in another case against him before the same Judge in my case that he had knowledge of before accepting to represent me in my case and failed to disclose this information. Being a new attorney on my case that took 2 years to finalize, he agreed with opposing party on deadlines and made decisions regarding my case without consulting with me. He was not reachable by phone and only responded by email of course. He sent me an outrageous billing entrees for items the attorney did not perform during the representation. His most recent google reviews were negative from clients who also expressed concerns for dishonesty with this attorney.
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15 Apr, 2021 by Adrian
RBJ & Associates are dependable, knowledgeable and thorough in their work. Richard puts you, the client, first and does so in a down to earth manner as if you’re having conversation with a friend. His years of experience serve his clients well and he “tells it like it is”. He looks out for you and does his very best to ensure a favorable, fair outcome. I highly recommend and would gladly elicit his services again.
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13 Apr, 2021 by Chance
I had dealt with Mr. Jacobson a while back with my own legal endeavors and I couldn't ask for a better client to attorney relationship. Lawyers nowadays are always incredibly rude and almost never take the time to know the client they are dealing with. I can say for certain that Mr. Jacobson is a man that takes pride in his work, very kind and understanding of my situation and actually wanted to help me through what I was going through. I thank him greatly for his services and his great conversation!
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07 Mar, 2018 by Brandon
I hired Mr. Kenyon in both a civil and criminal defense case regarding Marijuana and DUI. I've found that Charles did not keep proper notes regarding my case, as I've had to constantly remind him of what took place on the day of my arrest. During a suppression hearing regarding evidence, he admitted evidence we were trying to suppress. He was regularly late for court, and was not at his office at times we scheduled meetings. In the end, I had to fire Mr. Kenyon and appoint a public defender. Definitely not worth the $6k flat fee retainer.
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06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Charles' immediate response to my questions helped me to make a plan for best next steps. He told me upfront what his fees would be and gave me free advice on what to expect. He's an experienced public defender who fights for the people. Thank you, Charles!
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05 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I was arrested at 5 a.m on a Saturday morning and I asked a family member to find an attorney for me. She contacted Mr. Kenyon. He was extremely responsive and met with me over the weekend to set my expectations, gather facts, and begin formulating a strategy. He met with me again early Monday morning, briefed me on the steps he had taken, and once again did a fine job of ensuring I knew what would be happening over the next few days. As it turns out, my charges were dropped a few hours later, but it was clear that Mr. Kenyon was an excellent choice and had a firm grasp of dealing with the legal process, and developing a strategy for my defense. I would highly recommend him.
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02 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
She was too busy to take my calls and didn't even recognize me after meeting her... 6 thousand dollars and a lack of representation
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01 Apr, 2021 by Jim
Amber has always been professional and honest in her representation of me. She takes time to answer my questions and explains the options available. I would highly recommend her.
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06 Feb, 2021 by Louis marino
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10 Sep, 2024 by Greg hammond
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. I have personally worked with both Joe Bugni and Marcus Berghahn, and they have exceeded all expectations. They are highly knowledgeable and effective, fighting for outcomes that would not have been possible otherwise. Beyond their legal expertise and tenacity, Joe and Marcus have shown remarkable compassion and genuine care for our situation. These are top-notch lawyers and exceptional human beings. I am profoundly grateful to both of them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alene bridges
Joe Bugni is amazing! Trinity as well. I'm so thankful for meeting such wonderful people and finding thee BEST lawyer around. Thank you Joe!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marlo mall
By far the best!! This law firm is honestly amazing!! Joseph Bugni and paralegal Trinity are beyond fantastic at their jobs. They care more about helping people than the money, and it clearly shows. I promise you'll never go to another firm again!
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17 Apr, 2024 by Kenneth lloyd
Boardman & Clark was great and I would recommend attorney Gartzke for dissolving family matters.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Shar hermanson
What a beautiful location
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31 Jul, 2023 by Thomas oguinn
Great lawyers and staff
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25 Jan, 2024 by Jasper notprovided
Teaches people that they aren't smart enough to navigate the world.
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28 Aug, 2021 by Felicity klingele
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19 Mar, 2021 by Roy lin
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30 Aug, 2024 by Cristina benjumea
Solo tengo que decir que Murphy Desmond SC son excelente equipo de trabajo que hacen realidad los sueños de abrir fronteras de manera legal y exitosa. Gracias por todo lo que hicieron por mi familia. Dios los bendiga. Atentamente, Maria Cristina Benjumea, Kevin Lee Miller y Danny Michelle Montoya.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tim wartinbee
We had a great experience working with Connor Valentyn. Demonstrated a high level of expertise, responsiveness, and professionalism. Highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kyle mallie
My experience working with Jake Joling has been exactly as I hoped. He is great at communicating and explaining everything in simple terms. Thank you!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Carsten quinlan
Pam helped me in my divorce case. She was fair, hardworking, and honest, and reliable. Highly recommend her.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Ms. never another me only1
I can say my experience w/this attorney was great very successful!! She's patient, caring & very understanding!! You deal directly w/her no third party. If you're having issues Pam Baumgartner is the go to lady!!!💯 😊
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28 Nov, 2022 by Sarah grant
She was my free public defender. I asked for a different lawyer as she wasn't interested in really helping me in my case. Pam then told me how I could end up with an even worse lawyer. And when I lost, she showed not an ounce of compassion during the whole process.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr Nagel has represented me in several matters professionally and attentively over many years. I entirely trust him to pursue my interests.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Nagel is a wonderful attorney who went above and beyond to help me through tough times when I needed it the most. If I were to recommend an attorney, I would choose Attorney Nagel without hesitation.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Phil
Attorney Nagel did an amazing job. I will definitely contact attorney Nagel if I need an attorney in the future.
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29 Sep, 2023 by Steve laking
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29 Sep, 2023 by Sydney ertl
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28 Sep, 2023 by Candy leigh
Efficient service and excellent attorneys! Emily has handled our issues with grace and compassion. She is my first call for consultation and guidance.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Randall ruenger
Explained things so great and put my mind to ease!!!
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24 Oct, 2023 by John denboer
Terrible and unethical service. Defrauded myself and my family. Tried to bill for services without contract. Attempted to resolve situation professionally, but Mr. Stewart engaged in yelling and threatening behavior. Ultimately was forced to file an official grievance with the WI Office of Lawyer Regulation.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Calvertron
Walt is a pleasure to deal with, I hired him after my father passed to deal with the estate, best decision I ever made!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Karen pfeil
Denise Wilson recently represented me in a Restraining Order case. She was so supportive in helping me with a difficult situation. She listened to my concerns and answered all my questions. If I ever need legal assistance again, I will definitely contact Denise.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Dana deal
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30 Sep, 2023 by Kyle lawrence
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16 Nov, 2023 by Peter middleton ii
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23 Aug, 2023 by Joe wilke
Best Attorney i've ever had
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07 Nov, 2021 by Terri jo terbilcox
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16 Jun, 2023 by Nancy
I had to go to court. Robert did a wonderful job for me. I was quite stressed out about this and he was there for me. I would definitely want him for an attorney if I needed to go.to court ever again. Thank you Robert.
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29 Oct, 2017 by Chelsea
I can't say enough good things about Robert Debauche, he is an amazing lawyer. I was going through a pretty scary time of my life, and he was there through it all, offering advice, help, and wisdom even at odd times of the day. He was always quick to answer my calls or call me back very quickly. He never made me feel less important, or like he was not trustworthy. He truly became a friend after everything he helped me through. If I ever (God forbid) need to hire a lawyer again, I know Robert will be that person!
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20 Oct, 2017 by Caroline
Attorney DeBauche is a man of superior work ethic and an excellent defense lawyer. The results of my situation far exceeded my expectations. I would recommend him to anyone and everyone. Throughout my experience with Mr. DeBauche has become more then my representation, he has become a friend.
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29 Sep, 2023 by Steve laking
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29 Sep, 2023 by Sydney ertl
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28 Sep, 2023 by Candy leigh
Efficient service and excellent attorneys! Emily has handled our issues with grace and compassion. She is my first call for consultation and guidance.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Joel kinzel
Worked with Will K after a recent layoff to review and understand my severance. Will was great, responsive, and laid things out in a way I could understand. I would recommend Pines Bach if you're looking for legal guidance.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Todd bluhm
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10 Dec, 2023 by Ann tress
Will Kramer is an excellent attorney. Some of his great qualities are thorough, patient, he took the time to explain things that were confusing to me, until I understood. I highly recommend him.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Doug payne
Highly competent firm. Great experience.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Vanessa h
Highly recommend Johanna Alex & Karyn! A wonderful team to work with, they know their stuff, and very organized⭐️
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22 Sep, 2023 by Kay curtin
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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