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31 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired her for my citizenship application as I was caught with small amount of marijuana few years ago. There were signs that working with her would be a disaster from the very beginning. One time, I asked her if the citizenship application has been filed, to which she replied "yes". But then I heard few days after that it has not been filed. Or there was one time when she asked me if I have made the payment to her few months after I already did. Or there was one time when she was on the zoom call with me and she proceeded to look for my legal documents in front of me, fumbling through documents for good two three minutes. I should have known then. One issue that we talked before submitting the application about was having a police report, that shows that the amount of marijuana I was caught with was less than 30 grams. The immigration law states that if marijuana was less than 30 grams, it should not pose a problem with the citizenship application. I found the police report and submitted that to her. After that, I did not hear anything about it until the interview. During the interview, the USCIS officer asked her if she has a police report that proves that the possession of marijuana was less than 30 grams. She argued that she did not because it was not a conviction. That was the first time that I heard of that argument from her. To which, the USCIS officer argued that it is. Then, to my utter dismay, Susan started arguing angrily with the officer. She asked, I quote, "Are you a licensed lawyer?" in an accusing tone. I tried to stay calm, but inside I was in a sheer panic. I thought I could be deported in a country that I have lived in for more than 10 years. Even though I passed the interview, we got a notice saying that they cannot make the decision. The USCIS officer said that she would talk about this case with her office's lawyers and then send us a request for evidence. When we were walking out of the interview, she said "we don't have a police report, right? why do we not have it again?". That was such a crazy question to me, because I have actually sent her the police report. A week after the interview, she said that she purposefully decided to not show the police report because she believed that it was not a conviction and that showing them the report just might lead to more suspicions and questions. I can understand her strategy, but if that was her strategy, why did she not mention it before the interview to get my take? If I was asked before, I would have probably said maybe we can try that, but bring the police report just in case so that the strategy fails. What I think happened here, is actually that she simply did not think about the whole police report issue until she got to the interview. As I mentioned before, when we walked out of the interview, she told me that we don't have a police report and then asked me why we do not have it. It does not make sense that her "strategy" was to not show it on purpose when she did not even know that we did not have it. This was a deliberate, dishonest attempt to hide a mistake that she has made. Seven months of agony started after that. I could not travel outside of the country because of this delay, and I could not see my girlfriend, for seven months. We did not get any response from USCIS. I would plead with her through emails, which she would seldom reply, to look for ways to speed up the process. One time I even got an email from her saying "DON'T WORRY, YOU WILL NOT BE DEPORTED", all caps. I talked to two different lawyers about this, and they both said it is utterly insane that she did not bring the police report and that it is definitely a conviction. The issue only got resolved when I found a way, by myself to reach out to USCIS. In short, I would really really not recommend working with her on serious immigration issues.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Edna borges
Where do I start I think if I’m not mistaken I met her through Father Teixeria after ordered to do community service after a shoplifting case. I was young and didn’t know anything about the law or deportation. Susan took my case after I was ordered deportable and she made sure everything in her power that I didn’t get deported. I hate to relive those dark days but if it was for her, wouldn’t have been here to raise my children. I trusted her and she did not fail it took time and she stayed on top of everything and thanks to her I became a citizen 2016. I would like to thank you for all your service in the immigration community you are a true hero. Not all heroes where cap some wear suits. I didn’t feel like a client. She made me feel like family I meet her family she meet mine’s.There a lot more detail to our story, years of pain healing and growth I’m truly grateful and blessed to have had her in my life.
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25 Jul, 2019 by Martin louis
Susan been my lawyer since 1998. She took me out of jail. She is a Great, understandable and Honest. I recommended her to a few people she always does a Great Job with them. She is the Best Lawyer...
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13 Mar, 2024 by Frankc7890
Pay him for a bankruptcy in full. Took a while, but didnt have to file after all. He would never provide a detailed bill of hours worked on my case. I asked him over and over for it. Communicated a few times mostly by email , all of which I kept to send to appropriate agencies. He finally , (after chasing and chasing him) sent me $300. ! 1/10th of what I paid him!! For a case he basically did a credit report on and gave it to secretary. I had to find all debtors and what was owed, etc. I dont know what he did for $2500.!?! But he didnt earn this Money I foolishly gave him. You can do better if you are looking for an honest, good, fair, competent, human being!
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27 Jul, 2023 by Alan
I paid him to serve my wife in a divorce pre-covid and he has ghosted me and never served her. I have tried to repeatedly contact him and he never calls me back.
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04 Dec, 2020 by Orion
Dan was amazing and highly professional on my bankruptcy case. Over 3 years later he is still available for questions and help. Highly recommended!!!!
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10 Apr, 2019 by Daniel
Catherine Gallagher charged me a flat fee that was supposed to cover up to 3 court visits. After the first court appearance she was already hinting for more money, after the second she asked for more money. Catherine often referred to how much the opposing council was getting paid when suggesting the need for an increase fee. Before the deposition on me was done I did pay another flat fee, in my opinion. I hadn’t exceeded the terms of the first agreement (3 court visits). My conversations were often defensive from Catherine when asking questions or presenting possible suggestions, a comment to note when asking about strategy and possible case leverage was “haven’t you ever watched Judge Judy”. When negotiations never really happened between council, it appeared it was going to trial. Based on the following reasons I had to act quickly and inform the judge I would no longer be moving forward with present council. 1. Catherine was poorly prepared every time we went to court, her attire and professionalism was less than desirable. 2. I felt Catherine did not provide proper review or council on my financials, there was little question or review of my wife’s financial which later was proven to be grossly overstated. 3. There was panicked phone interruptions during court in front of the judge and Catherine couldn’t turn her phone off. 4. The Judge asked for her pre-trial memorandum and her excuses was she left at her office, and informed me it doesn’t matter, that it has no effect on the case. (This document states your position and lays out your arguments so that the court may provide guidance). 5. My updated financials never got to apposing council or the court and my deposition was conducted on outdated financials. Catherine was an hour and a half late for my deposition and not prepared at all, she had no current financial in hand, and had no redirection for me at end of deposition. There were many excuses, stuck on a plane, not able to read or access submissions/documents from opposing council, she complained the type of media provided wasn’t sufficient or didn’t receive document or information pertaining to my case in time.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Sarah
I recently used Attorney Gallagher for my immigration case. She was amazing. She always returned my phone calls (or text messages). She was straight forward and explained everything in a way I could understand. She was supportive throughout this very long case. If she didn't have the answer right away, she looked into it and got me an answer. She actually listened go me. Unlike my previous attorney, she didn't just say she cared, but actually did! If you want an attorney who listen, fight for you, and at a reasonable cost, I strongly recommend Catherine.
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12 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Catherine always calls me back, answers all my questions and always gets me the outcome I want. I have been using her for several cases and I am always pleased. I highly recommend her she is a great lawyer.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Un total fracaso dice cualquier mentira por tal de ganar el caso. Ya no más de una persona lo a dicho.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Becky
Erika is attentive and stuck with me through some really difficult court days. Her staff is just as pleasant and professional. She's got your back.
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12 May, 2015 by Iris rosado
hola mi nombre es iris rosado le estoy escribiendo por q quisiera saber si usted trabaja con casos de penciones alimenticias ya q yo tengo dos casos de penciones la cual son de puerto rico y me gustaria tranfirirlos para aca ya q yo llevo 6 anos viviendo aca y los padres no me quieren cumplir con la pencion y la tengo atrasada por mucha cantidad aver si usted me puede ayudar con eso
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23 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Ben Brooks is a great attorney and I do not know what my family would have done without him. We have hired him for multiple cases over the last few years and not only did he work his magic throughout the cases, but he was a life saver for me personally during the whole experience. Ben was available and at our service every single time we called for him and was amazing representation for us at every single court date. I appreciate him more than he will ever know for always being open, honest, realistic and patient with us during this journey. He never stopped fighting for us no matter what was thrown at him and I will forever be grateful for his services.
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27 Jun, 2018 by Barbara
Benjamin Brooks worked with my family on an issue involving my daughter. He was extremely helpful from our initial phone conversation through representing my daughter at a college hearing. Mr. Brooks, at first, tried to help move a stalled process along in an expeditious manner through repeated contact with officials and with a minimal cost to us. When it became clear that more legal representation was necessary and with very little advance notice, Mr. Brooks agreed to represent my daughter at a formal hearing and provided us with a thorough overview and advance preparation. Due to the fact that my daughter has a disability, Mr. Brooks also worked with officials to make an exception that allowed my husband and me to participate at the hearing, greatly reducing my daughter’s stress level. Mr. Brooks made what could have been a stressful hearing easy to manage, and the issue was resolved quickly with the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Attorney Benjamin Brooks.
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19 Aug, 2017 by Noel
I'm writing in appreciation for the excellent legal services I received from Attorney Ben Brooks of Good Schneider Cormier and Fried in Boston. Ben was effective, considerate, and most of all efficacious in his work for me. One case involved eviction, and another a more felonious charge. In both cases he expedited solutions involving the least possible ongoing complication, with good results in both cases. With what I have come to think of as a characteristic style, Ben not only provided excellent legal service but also calmed me down by the way he talked about these matters. In the past I have experienced the same kind of high-quality professional services with Ben's firm, Good, Schneider, Cormier & Fried. I consider Ben not only a highly-skilled individual attorney, but also working in a judicious and level-headed way that seems to be the hallmark of the entire GSCF firm.
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10 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr Cataldo does not put his clients first. A family member hired him and his only concern was his fee. The outcome was not positive because Mr. Cataldo did not listen or fully look into the information provided to him.
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29 May, 2019 by Michelle
The best!!!! He is honest trustworthy and kept my anxiety down!!!! He actually takes time and listen to you works so hard and keeps you informed at all times!!!! Thank you again!!!!
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27 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I was more than satisfied with the service and the favorable deal he was able to get for me. highly recommended. this guy knows what he is doing
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06 Apr, 2022 by Katrina
Andrew was very helpful with my divorce. He helped me figure my way through the process. I’d recommend him to anyone.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Andrew accomplished nothing for me on multiple levels. He misrepresented evidence or just didn’t admit it into the case. Don’t waste your money on him get some one better. Someone that isn’t just looking for his next paycheck.
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16 Dec, 2015 by Jim g.
Andrew Norton is one attorney whose knowledge and ethics set him apart from the rest. He always does the right thing with your best interest at heart. He has always been understanding and helpful on different occasions that I used his service. He is one lawyer you can trust!
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14 Mar, 2017 by Reisa xhafaj
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01 Mar, 2017 by Milejdi sartori
Great attorney
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01 Mar, 2017 by Chris vale
Always gives great legal advice.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Stephen walsh
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13 Jul, 2023 by Cooper allen
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14 Aug, 2021 by Fran nehiley
Very competent and honest law firm,knowledgeable and polite.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Stephen walsh
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13 Jul, 2023 by Cooper allen
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14 Aug, 2021 by Fran nehiley
Very competent and honest law firm,knowledgeable and polite.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Dave m
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11 Jul, 2024 by La familia vlogs
Molly is a very nice person , she is professional lawyer she knows her job very well and takes it very serious , I recommend her to all of you in need of legal help she definitely will resolve your case at your convenience if it’s in her hands , Juliana her assistant is always on top of the game answering the phone and giving you directions and answers about anything you ask . Molly is the lawyer to go to !!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Junior alvarado
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02 Nov, 2023 by Anthony torres
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12 Oct, 2023 by Eddy l
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10 Jul, 2023 by Rob ruiz
They're horrible with relaying information to kee6one updated
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mariane bandeira
Had a great experience with Dibella offices. Was selling a house in MA while buying out of state. They helped the whole proccess go smoothly. Tina and Chris were super diligent and answered all our questions patiently. Even though they were not involved with the out-of-state purchase, they still gave us some great advice. Highly recommend.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Dana lovell
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17 Jan, 2024 by The life of lany
AMAZING
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15 Nov, 2023 by Nathan wagner
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18 Sep, 2020 by Scott guilbeault
I am not one to write many recommendations but I am compelled to do so because of the superior service I have received over the years. Specifically I have been a client of Chris Agostino for over a decade and I could not articulate in writing how much I appreciate him and his firm. Chris has provided guidance on both personal and business issues over the years and I forever grateful for everything he has done for me. In fact, over the years we have developed more than a client/attorney relationship...I consider him a friend and trusted advisor that I have referred to multiple individuals and business owners to him and his firm. I give my highest personal and personal reccomendation to RIW and Chris Agostino. Call me if you have any questions or are considering engagement with this firm.
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11 Sep, 2020 by Steve anderson
Great team at RIW. They have knowlege and experience needed for sophistcated transactions. I can count on them to see a deal through. Highly recommend, especially for restaurant and hospitality matters.
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30 Mar, 2018 by Pcarter
Was there alway as a lawer and help me thougha lots of things as a caring friend
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21 Feb, 2018 by Keri
I hired Mrs. Tania E. Curley and she was a wonderful attorney. She really cared about my case and was well prepared for every court date. I think she is strong in all aspects and determined to defend her clients cases by all means. I strongly recommend her as an attorney.
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16 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Curley and her staff were attentive to our difficult family situation. Child probate court can be chaotic and confusing but she knows how to navigate the system to try and bring about a resolution. Our case has not resolved yet but we know these types of matters involving children can take a long time and Attorney Curley is there for the long haul. I would recommend her if you have a difficult child custody matter and need someone to cut through the roadblocks to find a resolution.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Valentino musa
Can't say enough good things. They helped me with a family law issue, and their expertise made a challenging time much easier. Their team is top-notch and I felt supported every step of the way.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Rahul oad
Handled my personal injury case with great care. Fought hard to get me the compensation I deserved. Their team was compassionate and always had my best interests at heart. Highly recommended!
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12 Apr, 2024 by Guled elmi
There has been many mistakes with my cases which led to delays and remakes. They messed up my wife’s greencard application 5 times that I had to figure out the issues and correct it and submit it again(this costed us 9 months). One of the most annoying experience was when they messed up the DS-260 of my mother’s application which led her to not get visa after interview and delayed her 3 more months. It is best to stay away from them if you want avoid remakes and long delays.
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12 Jul, 2024 by James hackett
Hired a Justin banks worse attorney ever took me for a ride then lied about certain things and didn't show up to court date canceled after giving them envelopes full of cash then when I asked him to step down he wanted more cash after just paying him told him that I couldn't afford it then he went into court without notifying me and dismissed my case leaving me high and dry so I can't use any of the evidence that I paid him together now basically all the money that I spent I cant get back
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11 Jun, 2024 by Andrew hewling
AnnMarie Colasanti was a pleasure to work with on the purchase of our mutual clients home! Her communication throughout the process ensured a smooth and early close! I look forward to working with AnnMarie again!
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06 Mar, 2024 by Elden wicks
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24 Aug, 2024 by Dave m
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11 Jul, 2024 by La familia vlogs
Molly is a very nice person , she is professional lawyer she knows her job very well and takes it very serious , I recommend her to all of you in need of legal help she definitely will resolve your case at your convenience if it’s in her hands , Juliana her assistant is always on top of the game answering the phone and giving you directions and answers about anything you ask . Molly is the lawyer to go to !!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Junior alvarado
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20 Nov, 2022 by Brad
Neil Madden not only is a great lawyer with knowledge and court room experience. He truly cares about his clients and fights hard for them. His court room experience and expertise is above and beyond. Thx Brad C.
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14 Sep, 2022 by Elizabeth mcdermott
Never followed up with my calls. I got the feeling that my case wasn't important enough
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06 Apr, 2022 by David presente
Always answers the phone always answers any questions I have, very professional and helpful
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15 May, 2024 by Khristopher neeper
The employment law is a waste of time. They are uneducated and do not know that it is illegal to fire anyone while on FMLA. Do NOT waste your time find a more educated law group.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Atty Kelli Silva is a great attorney - when you need an attorney, look no further. For me,my health was bad and I was in the worst situation- I needed to be supported with benefits , including Workman’s Comp, SSDI and insurance challenges- Attorney Silva believed in me , and always told me not to worry , she will take care of the legal issues to help attain the benefits for me - My job was to focus on getting better- She kept her promise in so many ways . She is sincere, kind and the BEST lawyer you could ever ask for - The team that supports her is great - Mary Dianna and all the others behind the scene - Prior to this I didn’t know Keches law firm , I didn’t know Atty Silva , but what I did know is that after speaking with their team and reading the reviews,I felt confident this was the team for me- Three years later ,I can honestly say Kelli Silva and Keches law firm is the best and continue to be every step of the way!! Thank you!!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Renee ward
My attorney, Kelli Silva, was attentive to my needs and kept me informed throughout the process. With her legal expertise, I was awarded workers compensation for the duration of my injury and recovery after surgery. I would highly recommend her and Ketches Law Group.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Robert vencis
Gave Joe 500.00 cash to start my case, He failed to tell me it was a conflict of interest because he plays golf with the haverhill p.d brass .I told him I didn't want him representing me. He gave a cash receipt on the back of a business card ,Never gave me my money back ,Very unethical professional..I suggest not to use him if it involves the hpd..
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11 Dec, 2022 by Nikos sofronas
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31 Oct, 2022 by Anthony mendez
Very un professional forgot about my appointment first time around gave him a second chance in which he missed it again and and booked me in for wrong dates very inconvenient
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06 Oct, 2023 by Karen michelson
I recommend Joshua D Werner… Great Attorney
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08 Aug, 2023 by Paula medeiros
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18 Aug, 2022 by Jeffrey gonsalves
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04 Feb, 2024 by Jack p
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13 Jun, 2023 by Gugga dugga
Oldest, not best.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Geraldo hodge
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16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
This lawyer was not aware of the basic laws or just choose to share the information with me. She made several unnecessary court dates that did not progress my case but did cost me significantly more in retainers. She never returned my calls until the day before court then screamed and I do mean screamed at me . Unfortunately for me she cost me a ton of money thousands of dollars then she couldn’t get prepared and quit the week of court. I obtained a new lawyer and got the case over with and made out very well thanks to my new well educated attorney. It is a shame she is able to get away with this behavior.
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26 Mar, 2023 by David
I have consulted with Attorney Ruggieri for several legal issues. She is prompt to respond to me and helped me with all my legal priblems. Attorney Ruggieri is knowledgeable of the law, professional, and very caring towards her clients.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Robert
I have hired Linda regarding three civil matters and she has resolved them all of them in a timely, efficient manner. She sat down with me and explained what needed to be done and was always available to take my calls during this stressful time. Linda is a true professional and I will continue to use her in the future.
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04 Feb, 2024 by Jack p
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13 Jun, 2023 by Gugga dugga
Oldest, not best.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Geraldo hodge
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04 Feb, 2024 by Jack p
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13 Jun, 2023 by Gugga dugga
Oldest, not best.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Geraldo hodge
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20 Mar, 2024 by Reverend jim thomas
Good Morning, yesterday and this morning the renters of the unit above me decided to bang on there floor at 6 am, 6:15 am, 6:30 am, 6:45 am!!! I guess that I can keep posting on here until this practice stops!!! Hello, Everyone, Robert Fredericks owns the unit above me in the condo building! His renters that he rents to bang on there floor at all times of the day and night! The folks that owned my unit previously could not keep renters in my unit because of the harassment from his renters! I purchased my unit in September of 2018 and it’s been constant harassment from his renters! Mr Frederick’s I have talked to on a few occasions but he calls me a liar!!!
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27 Jul, 2022 by Oscar caouette
My wife and I worked with Atty Fredericks to set up our wills and final wishes. He also set up our family trust. We could not have been more pleased. He explained everything in clear terms answered every question completely and counseled us on the most appropriate steps to take to protect us and our family. Robert Fredericks is warm friendly and immediately gives you the comfort that he will take care of everything. He lets you know what the costs will be up front. No surprises. His fees are more than reasonable and he asks for nothing until the work is completed. He is an excellent lawyer.
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28 Feb, 2020 by Jared mcpherson
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14 Jul, 2020 by Kristen
Mr. Najjar is an experienced, knowledgeable attorney with whom I had the pleasure of speaking about a personal injury case. He listened well, asked good questions about the case details, and had an assuring manner with the advice he offered. He was recommended to me by a friend, and I'm glad I called him. I highly recommend his services to those looking for sound, professional legal advice and services.
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04 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
You don't really know your lawyer until you play basketball with him. Mike is tenacious. Even though I was his personal injury client, suffering with a broken leg, Mike did not take it easy on me. He will exploit the weaknesses of his opponent. Mike would seek to distract me by saying, "look, a PI is filming you playing basketball," and then drive past me.
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20 Feb, 2019 by Lynn
I spoke briefly on the phone with Attorney Mike Najjar. He spoke over me most of the conversation and was horribly dismissive assuming he knew the intricacies of my case. I waited a long time to post this as I had an extremely positive outcome with another area lawyer who took the time to listen. I would steer far clear of this lawyer who thinks he knows it all.
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20 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
At the time I didn’t know any Defense attorneys I google my erea and found David he sounded really great he said he knew the law inforcement dept of my Town and he always gets his client off I thought at the time wonderful I wouldn’t have anything to worry about but of course had to pay him right then and there to his favor he didn’t charge his full fee if he had I wouldn’t be able to hire him in which he probably knew that since I’m a senior two years later and finally done and not what I wanted for my better half and not what he said we should do plus everytime I asked him for something he would always say I’ll check into it and never did it seem to me that he went along with the victim instead of his client but at least it is done and if I ever need another attorney it won’t be him
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18 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired David for a standard misdemeanor charge and after agreeing on terms to settle my case, and then researching other lawyers, fees and outcomes, I feel I could have done better. He sells himself a lot as having "connections in the courts" which raised initial doubts but since I have never been through this before, I thought it was a normal thing for lawyers to say...cheesy but normal. Another red flag should have been that he needed payment in full right away, even though my court date was over three weeks out. I had to personally look into the specifics of the law and ask him about it and he withheld some potential negative outcomes/bargaining stipulations until the end which I found most disappointing. He didn't make any attempt to throw out the case or be aggressive on my behalf and I later learned that I could have had the same generic results with any attorney, possibly even representing myself and saved 4K in attorney fees. Communication also drastically changed in the final stages when I asked about different avenues. I was reluctantly quick in hiring him because I wanted to get this done ASAP but I am writing this to warn others to do the research and consult with several different lawyers before committing.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Ryan
Dave is a great lawyer who goes to bat for you no matter what. Anybody in Natick knows Dave is the guy you call when times get tough. He has always worked with my friends and I to resolve cases quickly and in the defendants favor.
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26 Dec, 2019 by Robin
I hired Veronica White for a very simple case dealing with domestic violence, where I had 209A's in place. Against my wishes, she refused to let me testify, and insisted on a bench trial. The results were disastrous because she did not want to spend the time. I had been victimized many times, and knew what I was doing, yet Veronica did not allow me my due process.
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27 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney White is a great lawyer. She argued hard for my case and got it dismissed on a technicality.
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27 Oct, 2017 by Rich p
There's a lot of positive things I can say about Veronica White but I will keep it as short as possible. What I can say is that she is the absolute best lawyer I've ever met and she's a fierce fighter and believer in her clients and proven their innocence. Veronica has successfully vacated a case I had that was hanging over my head for 10 years that would have led to lengthy separation from my family and for that I'm eternally grateful. I still remember the day we met and she took over my case. She looked me in the eye and told me not to stress as she will move mountains to win my case and that's exactly what she did. If you're wise enough to hire this lady just know you have made a very smart decision. Sincerely, Rich
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

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

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

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

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

  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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