Lawyers map
>32
experienced lawyers
Filter by
27 Jan, 2025 by Krissy m.
I had an excellent experience working with Patrick Cassady, Tammy, Isabel, and everyone working behind the scenes at Cohen Law Group. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I was able to receive a fair settlement for my injury while receiving the medical care and surgery I needed. I highly recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. They truly care about their clients and fight for the best possible outcome.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Mike mcfarland
Want to say thanks to Ryan Smith, Rose Harrison and the Cohen Law Group for the work that they done in settling our roof damage case.
Ryan took the time to walk us through the process of what was happening at every step of the way..
Thanks to
Ryan, Rose and The Cohen Law Group
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Carlos vas
We suffered damage to our roof during hurricane Ian. Make a long story short, we settled our case with the insurance company and are ready to move ahead with roof replacement. This would not have been possible without the help of Cohen Law Group, and our attorney Chris Carey and litigation assistant Erica Whitlock. Erica took the time to answer any questions and provided excellent communications throughout the process. This was my first experience with a homeowner's claim, and I really appreciated Erica's patience.
Attorney Chris provided expert advice on how to move forward with the case and settled the case with the best possible outcome. What impressed me the most was the expertise that Cohen Law Group provided in terms of the litigation process and the knowledge on the roof claim itself. I fully recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone who needs help with a roof claim. I would certainly call attorney Chris for any future legal needs. Thank you so much for all your help.
Read more
27 Jan, 2025 by Krissy m.
I had an excellent experience working with Patrick Cassady, Tammy, Isabel, and everyone working behind the scenes at Cohen Law Group. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I was able to receive a fair settlement for my injury while receiving the medical care and surgery I needed. I highly recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. They truly care about their clients and fight for the best possible outcome.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Mike mcfarland
Want to say thanks to Ryan Smith, Rose Harrison and the Cohen Law Group for the work that they done in settling our roof damage case.
Ryan took the time to walk us through the process of what was happening at every step of the way..
Thanks to
Ryan, Rose and The Cohen Law Group
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Carlos vas
We suffered damage to our roof during hurricane Ian. Make a long story short, we settled our case with the insurance company and are ready to move ahead with roof replacement. This would not have been possible without the help of Cohen Law Group, and our attorney Chris Carey and litigation assistant Erica Whitlock. Erica took the time to answer any questions and provided excellent communications throughout the process. This was my first experience with a homeowner's claim, and I really appreciated Erica's patience.
Attorney Chris provided expert advice on how to move forward with the case and settled the case with the best possible outcome. What impressed me the most was the expertise that Cohen Law Group provided in terms of the litigation process and the knowledge on the roof claim itself. I fully recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone who needs help with a roof claim. I would certainly call attorney Chris for any future legal needs. Thank you so much for all your help.
Read more
27 Jan, 2025 by Krissy m.
I had an excellent experience working with Patrick Cassady, Tammy, Isabel, and everyone working behind the scenes at Cohen Law Group. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I was able to receive a fair settlement for my injury while receiving the medical care and surgery I needed. I highly recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. They truly care about their clients and fight for the best possible outcome.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Mike mcfarland
Want to say thanks to Ryan Smith, Rose Harrison and the Cohen Law Group for the work that they done in settling our roof damage case.
Ryan took the time to walk us through the process of what was happening at every step of the way..
Thanks to
Ryan, Rose and The Cohen Law Group
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Carlos vas
We suffered damage to our roof during hurricane Ian. Make a long story short, we settled our case with the insurance company and are ready to move ahead with roof replacement. This would not have been possible without the help of Cohen Law Group, and our attorney Chris Carey and litigation assistant Erica Whitlock. Erica took the time to answer any questions and provided excellent communications throughout the process. This was my first experience with a homeowner's claim, and I really appreciated Erica's patience.
Attorney Chris provided expert advice on how to move forward with the case and settled the case with the best possible outcome. What impressed me the most was the expertise that Cohen Law Group provided in terms of the litigation process and the knowledge on the roof claim itself. I fully recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone who needs help with a roof claim. I would certainly call attorney Chris for any future legal needs. Thank you so much for all your help.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Adam clark
I was in an accident and he handled everything. My ticket was dismissed. No points, no fines, no traffic school, best outcome I could have asked for. Also, Claudia kept me updated every step in the process. I highly recommend Gans Law, they are the best and deliver results.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Tammy
Brandon Gans is the best! He will do everything he can to get you the best deal he can. Him and his staff are very friendly and always respond to you when you reach out. Brandon is very good about returning phone calls promptly. If you want a great lawyer then call Brandon Gans!
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Felipe sabino
Had the scariest scare of my life and thank God I found Brandon!!! Brandon went above and beyond for me to get my license back and he was able to get the best outcome possible for me!! Which was a dismissed case ( I didn’t have to show up or anything)!!!! I got my license back and a dismissed case!! Thank you Brandon for all your hard work and I will always be recommending you to everyone who needs help !!! My case was dismissed let’s celebrate!!! Loved working with Gans law!!! There is always someone to pick up the phone and make you feel confortable!!
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Alfredo vega
Effective representation long process, patience.
Thank you
Malik Law
Mr.Tabakman
Alexandria Reese
Christin Deis
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer guerro-giles
My attorney Gary Spahn and his paralegal Alexandria Reese did an amazing job in handling my personal injury case. I felt confident with their knowledge and expertise. I was extremely satisfied with their professionalism, diligence and outstanding efforts in bringing my case to a favorable conclusion. I would highly recommend Malik Law firm, and more importantly Gary Spahn, Esq. and his team to anyone looking for exceptional legal representation.
Jennifer Guerro-Giles
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Courtney motyczka
I had the pleasure of working with Gary and Alexandria. They both went above and beyond, really listened to me, were thorough in answering questions, and supportive throughout the process. They set realistic expectations for me and were extremely reasonable. I am so grateful to them and for the outcome in my case. Thanks for being such a dedicated team!
Read more
4.8
17 Reviews
4.7
28 Reviews
30 Aug, 2024 by Tina spack
20 Aug, 2024 by Justin harbour
I've been a client of Jonathan's for about three months at this point. He's been nothing but courteous, professional, and accessible. He'll communicate with you directly, with no assistant to go through first. He has followed through with everything he promised since the day I retained him. If you're facing dark times and the state is coming for blood, you can trust him.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Joe pennella
Damon and his team expertly handled my complex and contentious divorce professionally with grace and attention. Even after the final judgement was completed, Damon has been a valuable resource and just a good person. He definitely puts his client first. I have and will continue to refer people to Damon Weiss!
Read more
17 Feb, 2025 by Emily green
I really needed an attorney who was going to advocate for me and my daughter. Instead, Cheri guided me through the court process and helped me create a parenting plan with my narcissistic, psychopathic ex. This is obviously a routine thing, but I needed other options to protect my daughter and myself from repeat abuse. We’re currently in an abusive situation after Cheri has settled all matters and filed for completion of services; along with, ignoring my email requesting legal guidance.
Read more
27 Jan, 2025 by Douglas martinez
Compass Law took care of my legal request in an expeditious professional manner. They were great to work with. They have a very friendly and knowledgeable staff. I highly recommend them should you need some legal advice.
Read more
15 Nov, 2023 by Juanita larochelle
Attorney Scott has years of experience and is very knowledgeable in Florida Family Law. She will explain every step with great detail and will make sure you understand the process. A divorce proceeding, a modification of timesharing, or any other family legal proceeding puts you in great stress and makes you feel lost at the beginning, but attorney Scott lifts that weight off your shoulders and guides you in the best direction possible so you can get your life back on tack.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Albert parron
Great service
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Hilda gonzalez
17 Nov, 2024 by Michael mccauley
Very expensive after you retain them good luck seeing or hearing from them again. Retained Warren Lindsey and Matthew ferry neither of them advised me and my family on what to do and charged and arm and a leg in the process. Sent a lawyer I never seen on my court date. Extremely expensive.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Albert parron
Great service
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Hilda gonzalez
17 Nov, 2024 by Michael mccauley
Very expensive after you retain them good luck seeing or hearing from them again. Retained Warren Lindsey and Matthew ferry neither of them advised me and my family on what to do and charged and arm and a leg in the process. Sent a lawyer I never seen on my court date. Extremely expensive.
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Frances castro
Lack of communication and unprofessional. I got tired handling discussions and dealing with paperwork with Wells Fargo’s, home equity loan personnel, my husband and I, decided to hire Justin Clark law firm to fight our battle. They did nothing different then what I had previously done. We cannot tell you how many times we scheduled an appt. through Justin Clark’s”s paralegal, Candice Medina and Justin Clark was NEVER available, he was always in “court”, what’s worse, we would not even get a courtesy cancellation call. I have over 30 years of experience working with attorney’s, Justin Clark does not come near of having the professionalism, honesty and integrity of the attorneys I’ve work with. Please don’t hire this law firm they will take your money and resolve nothing. I no longer had them represent us, and settled with the bank on our own. Lesson learned. I wish I could say something good but my experience was hurtful and the attorney, Justin Clark knew it, because I expressed it to him several times in my emails. Pray no one gets deceived and Justin Clark does the right thing. There’s a God that sees everything and knows very well our hearts. Go to either Avvo or Yelp websites for more of Justin Clark’s ex-clients testimonies.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Carter shrum
They were Great. They got my Student Loans forgiven. $38,000 + ...
I would recommend them to everyone.
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Von250
Highly recommend. The entire staff all highly professional, all working together as a team. Very thorough especially Mr. Wayne Spivak. Questions I had were short and to the point, answered all my questions in a timely manner. Very easy to navigate through the process. I learned a lot as well. Important to gather all your data and keep it handy for references.They follow all proper legal guidelines as to what is needed. I had researched other places and I went with this firm. Cost effective wise they were THE best regardless of which route you went for your case.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Amber
Mr. Troum is the most precise and effective lawyer in Florida. His attention to detail and case related issues causes him to effectively represent his clients Affectively represent his clients and achieve a positive outcome in all cases. His approach is strictly fact based and throughly outlines all cases issues to the court in a precise, effective, and professional manner to move the court in your favor. I have been working with Mr. Trump often on since 2021. Through all of his guidance and advice I was inspired to become a lawyer myself. I thank him for all of his hard work and efforts put towards my case and he produced a win in my favor in multiple cases. I wish there were more lawyers like Mr. Troum. His wisdom and guidance will be missed when he retires. Thank you for being the best lawyer that I ever had.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Steve snider
Pleasure to deal with, informative, and straight to the point to help. Recommend if you are scared to find the right law firm to handle your case
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Connie gibbs
This firm was so easy to work with, easy to get in touch with and explained every step. Very knowledgeable also.
Read more
27 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Anthony helped us when we purchased our property and the HOA wanted to sue us for the debts of the previous owner. He was professional and explained to us how the HOA was in the wrong and soon enough they backed off. Highly recommend him.
Read more
17 Sep, 2015 by Kurtis
they wear super nice and very good at what they do. it did not take long to get everything done. i was in court about two months after starting the processes and discharged two months later. they took care of everything and i did not have to worry about it. i would definitely be referring people to them for this service.
Read more
20 Nov, 2012 by Fred
Results-oriented..... Attorney Ponall is working on an Appeal for my son. He is doing a fine job for my family and I really appreciate his work. Also he was highly recommended by an Attorney in Jacksonville who had seen his work on another case, where as this attorney represented a client in a money dispute and Attorney Ponall and Staff represented the other person...... therefore I followed throught and hired Attorney Ponall. I'm couldn't fine a better Apeals Attorney. It's an honor to write about him.... Thank God for Attorney Ponall!!!!!!!!
Read more
10 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Wallsh handled both a criminal and civil domestic case for me. It was a long drawn out process because of the dishonesty of the opposing party, but Mr. Wallsh was alway patient and honest and gave me exceptional advice. In the end both cases were resolved to my satisfaction and the opposition was not able to get away with their grand scheme. Mr. Wallsh was amazing in court. I highly recommend him.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Alfredo vega
Effective representation long process, patience.
Thank you
Malik Law
Mr.Tabakman
Alexandria Reese
Christin Deis
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer guerro-giles
My attorney Gary Spahn and his paralegal Alexandria Reese did an amazing job in handling my personal injury case. I felt confident with their knowledge and expertise. I was extremely satisfied with their professionalism, diligence and outstanding efforts in bringing my case to a favorable conclusion. I would highly recommend Malik Law firm, and more importantly Gary Spahn, Esq. and his team to anyone looking for exceptional legal representation.
Jennifer Guerro-Giles
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Courtney motyczka
I had the pleasure of working with Gary and Alexandria. They both went above and beyond, really listened to me, were thorough in answering questions, and supportive throughout the process. They set realistic expectations for me and were extremely reasonable. I am so grateful to them and for the outcome in my case. Thanks for being such a dedicated team!
Read more
27 Jan, 2025 by Krissy m.
I had an excellent experience working with Patrick Cassady, Tammy, Isabel, and everyone working behind the scenes at Cohen Law Group. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I was able to receive a fair settlement for my injury while receiving the medical care and surgery I needed. I highly recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. They truly care about their clients and fight for the best possible outcome.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Mike mcfarland
Want to say thanks to Ryan Smith, Rose Harrison and the Cohen Law Group for the work that they done in settling our roof damage case.
Ryan took the time to walk us through the process of what was happening at every step of the way..
Thanks to
Ryan, Rose and The Cohen Law Group
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Carlos vas
We suffered damage to our roof during hurricane Ian. Make a long story short, we settled our case with the insurance company and are ready to move ahead with roof replacement. This would not have been possible without the help of Cohen Law Group, and our attorney Chris Carey and litigation assistant Erica Whitlock. Erica took the time to answer any questions and provided excellent communications throughout the process. This was my first experience with a homeowner's claim, and I really appreciated Erica's patience.
Attorney Chris provided expert advice on how to move forward with the case and settled the case with the best possible outcome. What impressed me the most was the expertise that Cohen Law Group provided in terms of the litigation process and the knowledge on the roof claim itself. I fully recommend Cohen Law Group to anyone who needs help with a roof claim. I would certainly call attorney Chris for any future legal needs. Thank you so much for all your help.
Read more
21 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr.Hugo is great!!
Always has your beat interest in mind. Doesn't lie and tells you these big stories to get your money. He works hard and he knows the "Law".
Brian is my guy. Very respectable.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Amber
Mr. Troum is the most precise and effective lawyer in Florida. His attention to detail and case related issues causes him to effectively represent his clients Affectively represent his clients and achieve a positive outcome in all cases. His approach is strictly fact based and throughly outlines all cases issues to the court in a precise, effective, and professional manner to move the court in your favor. I have been working with Mr. Trump often on since 2021. Through all of his guidance and advice I was inspired to become a lawyer myself. I thank him for all of his hard work and efforts put towards my case and he produced a win in my favor in multiple cases. I wish there were more lawyers like Mr. Troum. His wisdom and guidance will be missed when he retires. Thank you for being the best lawyer that I ever had.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Steve snider
Pleasure to deal with, informative, and straight to the point to help. Recommend if you are scared to find the right law firm to handle your case
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Connie gibbs
This firm was so easy to work with, easy to get in touch with and explained every step. Very knowledgeable also.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Maria dunn
If you need an attorney to understand and have compassion, one that gets results he is your go-to. He has been a shark for me. The love he has for his clients is indescribable, you can tell he does it for a passion and not money. Thank you.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Liceth ramirez
I want to express my great gratitude to the law firm. I want more than a recommendation, to attest and leave my testimony which ratifies the great honest, organized work with great empathy and kindness that the lawyer David and his work group did, starting with the paralegal Astrid Mendez who accompanied me in this process, who had all the patience and always spoke to me with transparency so that my custody case would happen in the best way. They did an impeccable job, my expectations were exceeded. They are very organized and fair with the case and with the client. I recommend them 100%. I will always give my best opinion about them. The human quality they had so that this very traumatic and complex process of dealing with custody, where you seek the well-being of your children in the midst of an adult confrontation, would happen in the most fair and impeccable way possible. God bless you and always thank you very much for taking my case and doing the best for my family. Attorney David is a high-class professional, Astrid, your work is exceptional as is the rest of your team, starting with the front desk.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by De anna carroll
I met with Attorney Veliz, for my relocation case with my son because my previous Attorney dropped the ball, and I was at a loss of what to do. First, not only did Attorney Veliz offer a consultation to review my case and to discuss how to best assist me. He was clear, honest and very insightful about the law. While Attorney Veliz made no promises about how the case would result, he felt that we had a good case, and explained his approach.
Fast forward to our day in court, Attorney Veliz is a BEAST in the courtroom, that is where he shines. He takes no punches when he sees that the opposing sides argument is not valid, or has NO PROBLEM objecting when he needs to. Not to mention, Attorney Veliz does not waste your time or your money. When he tells you he will do something, HE DOES!!! The court room is where he shines and does his best work. I can honestly say, my case was not an easy one, because he had to "clean up" the residual from my previous Attorney that had that dropped the ball. WE WON THE CASE!!! Attorney Veliz approached my case with facts and had no problem interpreting the law to get me the results I needed and wanted. Attorney Veliz worked with me, educated, and guided me during all steps of the way, and was honest on what would work, and what may not work. If you are looking for a Divorce, Family Law, Relocation Attorney, SEEK OUT VELIZ/KATZ Law!!! He has very professional staff, (that also speaks Spanish which is a plus), he is honest, caring, and doesn't waste your time. Relocation cases are so hard to start with, but Attorney Veliz went into court with KNOWLEDGE, CONFIDENCE, and INTEGRITY, and that is why my case turned out favorable. I can't thank him, and his wonderful assistant Astrid enough for all of their help, and hard work they put forth on my case. Thank you Attorney Veliz for everything you did for me and my son!!!!
Read more
02 Feb, 2015 by Ashley
Mr. Dorst assisted me with a lease I was forced to break due to my concern for my safety as many of my belongings were beig broken and stolen and I felt very threatened. The leases was with student housing near UCF. He wrote a detailed letter of my concerns and reasons for breaking the lease along with an explanation of their lack of enforcing rules necessary to maintain my feeling of safety and security at the complex.
They still sent me a letter for the debt but that debt has not reported negatively on my credit report which I am very thankful for. Mr. Dorst was recommended to me by a friend and was very attentive and compassionate. He didn't care that this was not a big money making case and took care of my issues, making me feel like a very appreciated client.
Read more
18 May, 2011 by Anonymous
My daughter was arrested one evening at a night club. She is all of 4' 11" and was brought up on charges of battery of a police officer with no resistence(?????) how can that be. Anyway, this would have stayed on her record. He took care of this immediately and all charges were droped
Read more
25 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Gary Dorst to get custody of my son. I was granted the custody of my son and for the former wife she was to start paying child support and work out visitation and all other custody matters.Attorney Dorst never filed this order untill years of me investigating and calling State attorney and years of going back and forth to court. After over ten years of trying to find out why I never got my rights as a Father back,I found out that Dorst never filed the court order till sept of 2008 ten years after the order was given to the attorney and I brought this to his atention he filed the order but it was to late for me to ever have any of my rights as a Father.
Read more
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.
