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09 Jul, 2022 by Anthony
The best attorney, very professional, understanding, caring, very devoted to my case. Saved me time, money, and my life. Very smart great man. Excellent job five star I can't thank you enough bro, hands down 100% the best. Anthony Desalvatore sr.
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10 Sep, 2020 by Sterling stacker
Positive outcome With both support and custody cases
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10 Aug, 2020 by Jaime
No other words other then a great attorney who knows exactly what to do and when to do it . Very satisfied .
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26 Aug, 2023 by Paul anthony
17 Mar, 2019 by Derek's world
16 Nov, 2015 by Kelly
Mark has represented our family on a few occasions. Most recently, Mark is handling my mother's estate. What I like the most about Mark and the Barnard, Mezzanotte, Pinnie and Seelaus law firm is the kind of personal service you receive. This is not your typical law firm. The attorneys are kind, thoughtful, experienced, and well respected in their field and the community. You find outstanding attorneys who charge fair and reasonable prices for reliable representation. Mark and his legal team also handled my uncle's estate and the entire process was explained to me clearly and I was kept in the loop through the entire process. We will be using Mark and his team to handle our estate planning needs as well. I would highly recommend Mark Pinnie and his firm, Barnard, Mezzanotte, Pinnie and Seelaus, to anyone seeking great attorneys who truly care about their clients.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Chris siddons
05 Apr, 2024 by Jacqueline whipple
Siddons law office gets straight to the point !!! I love a lawyer that gets straight to it. Oh and Izak E. you’re awesome !!!!
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29 Mar, 2024 by Joseph karpinski
Michael and his team (namely, Heath Isaacs) handled the paperwork and the bankruptcy hearing (which I have just finished) professionally. All was done on time. I will leave another review when the bankruptcy is settled.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Joe
Mark and gis staff were wonderful. I knew exactly what to expect and mark was up front and honest. He truly does care about his clients and we won’t use any one else!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
This guy is three moves ahead of the prosecution.
He's a master at his craft. The cop was so confused she became our witness.
Mark convinced the District Attorney they would likely lose at trial.
A felony became a misdemeanor, and a state sentence became probation. Houdini I tell you.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Cb
Hired Mark for a drug case. Tore up cops at preliminary hearing. Filed and argued suppression, cops violated my constitutional rights, plain and simple. Crooked Judge denied my motion. Thought he was gonna quit on me. No sir, he's ready to rumble. Showed up today, still fighting with the DA and named the Judge. On my side, all the time. He shows up, every time. Stay tuned, he's walking me after picking 12.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Michael
Extremely intelligent and hard-working attorney. He helped me with my issue and I was extremely satisfied. I would highly recommend Mr. Pallen. He truly cares and will certainly "go to bat for you!"
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19 Jan, 2024 by Charles
Dan is my attorney in a complicated estate matter involving overseas assets and foreclosures here in Pennsylvania. He has always been extremely diligent really a pleasure to work with. He has had my back through many tough situations and I highly recommend his services. If you are in need of personalized attention and a strong ally, he is the one you should hire!
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14 Nov, 2022 by Malcolm scott
In regards to both my cases the outcome was fantastic where they were both thrown out.
First meeting Dan and his assistant Mia I felt immediately welcomed not only to mention the office is in a prime Location. Along the year duration (rocky roads) of my case I was always reminded every single time, the prior day and was told specific details of what was needed on my part to get the outcome we desired. I personally am writing a detailed review not just because We ended up with a good outcome but because I couldn’t have felt more secure and comfortable with a team such as Dans.If I ever was in this predicament again without a doubt Mr.Pallen is on speed Dial ! Thanks again
Sincerely,
Malcolm Scott
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20 Jan, 2016 by Tom
I am more than happy with the services John provided throughout my experience. I was charged with DUI and had a prior charge back in the early '80s....did not know what to expect. John walked me through each step of the process and accompanied me to every legal event and hearing without exception. He was always accessible and was prompt in returning my every email; there was plenty of "hand holding" to calm my anxiety and concerns. Even after the sentencing, John resolved a problem with PennDOT that could have interfered with reinstatement of my license. I highly recommend John to anyone who must deal with the court system in Delaware County, PA. It will be worth your time to speak to him before choosing legal counsel to represent you.
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18 Dec, 2015 by Lisa
I was badly injured in a car accident in 2011 when I was hit while sitting at a red light. I was referred to Mr. Kusturiss and thank God that I was. He was do very kind, understanding, caring, reassuring and patient with me He worked very diligently on my case and was very thorough. At the hearing I was highly impressed with his skill, knowledge and professionalism. He won my case. And I'll forever be grateful to him. I highly recommended him to anyone looking for the best attorney out there because that's him.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Maria
I was referred to Mr. Kusturiss by another Attorney who did not have Trial privileges in Delaware County PA. From my first meeting with Mr. Kusturiss, I had complete confidence in his competency to handle my MVA case. He was professional, compassionate and was happy to answer all of my questions, no matter how many and how many times I might ask the same question. He always treated me with respect and every request was was handled in a timely manner. His office was easy to get to and has ample free parking. The office staff were always kind and curteous and if Mr. Kusturiss was not available when I called they would get my messages to him and he would call me himself as soon as he was free, and always had the answer to my question. He was determined and thorough when researching my case and when obtaining all the necessary information to make my case strong and complete. My case was setteled in a favorable manner this past February, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. I would HIGHLY recommend John Kusturiss, Jr. to anyone in need of a professinal, personable and extremely competent Attorney.
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29 Jan, 2019 by Rick h
I hired James to help my daughter with a traffic violation. James was superb, he knew the law and was confident about the outcome.
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05 Jul, 2018 by Lin
After my daughter was hit by a car while bicycling, we were grateful she was alive. We soon realized that dealing with the insurance was REALLY complex- auto insurance coverage, minimums, health insurance, the driver was underinsured . . . Stressful. I am a professional myself, but I could not figure it out and was just going to have my insurance company settle it. I am very glad I did NOT do that.
Attorney Famiglio was recommended to me by a close friend. He understood exactly how to manage things. He was kind, easy to work with, handled everything, took the stress right away. I thank him for everything he has done for us. He has been a god send.
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30 Jun, 2018 by Peter
Badly injured in an auto accident it was a long hard recovery. My insurance company and the person who rammed into me insurance company were very uncooperative in aiding in my recover and a fair settlement. I was getting nowhere with my lawyer.
So I started looking for a new one.
I friend of the family recommended James Famiglio.
We ended up in court with a jury trial HE SLAMMED DUNKED THE OPPOSING INSURANCE COMPANY ATTORNEYS.
I sat in court in awe of his performance. His years of experience were clear in the court room.
Ended up happy ever after.....thank you
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02 May, 2022 by J
God first then Tiffany. She helped save my life after someone lied on me for something heinous that I did not do. I was looking at 10-15yrs. Tiffany was excellent and bought her A game doing the hearings. I’ll be using her for a custody case again. I’ll always be grateful for what she did for me. If you want a great results, hire Ms. Tiffany Griffin.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Mike
Tiffany has been unbelievably helfpul in our work together. She has a firm grasp on facts that dictate how a case will progress and has a very kind and uplifting spirit.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Kenneth
I was involved in a complicated custody case involving my nephew and Miss Griffin made the situation a lot less stressful. She was brought into the case well into the process but was able to "catch up" very quickly. She was succinct with her wording which made it easy to follow AND understand what to expect going forward.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Mohamed
I was facing serious charges a year ago. I hired a private lawyer but they were not really helpful. I was going through hearings without really feeling I was being helped by my attorney. Then it got to a point where they needed more money to proceed with the case. I was feeling hopeless. They asked for a ridiculous amount of money that I did not have and they were not really helpful to begin with. So I started looking for another lawyer to help my situation. My uncle, through a lawyer friend of his recommended Steven Omeara. After going with Mr. Omeara i totally lost that feeling of hopelessness that I had. Steven was very helpful and fought very diligently for me. He was always on top of things. He is a well recognized lawyer and I must say that I got a first hand look as to why he is so sought after. Steven helped me get into a program where they will expunge my charges upon completion. The previous lawyer I had failed to get me into the program but Steven did. I couldnt be where Im at without Steven Omeara. And I highly recommend him for all your legal matters.
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08 Jan, 2015 by Michael jenkins
Steven is the best Attorney that I had experience with in the legal system and has been proven to fight for his clients until the truth exonerated them. He is very Knowledgeable when it comes to the law and has a good working relationship with his colleagues that earns him much respect. He is proficient at his profession and takes on a case with zeal and passion like none that I have seen. I am very Thankful to have him represent me and would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone who was wronged by untruthful and manipulators of the system. If you are truly innocent and need someone who actually cares about your wellbeing and your rights then I would highly recommend him.
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14 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Steve was extremely helpful in explaining what information was needed from me to represent my family situation appropriately. He was well prepared and providided all necessary documentation for the court. I would definiely recommend Mr. O'Meara to a friend or family member.
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22 Nov, 2020 by Alana
My family and I have remained clients of the Law Offices of Robert E. O’Connor for many years. Robert is knowledgeable and goes above and beyond to connect his clients with the right sources. He is responsive, thorough and strategic. Perhaps most importantly, Robert cares about his clients and spends the extra time to understand their needs. I highly recommend Robert’s legal services to others.
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05 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Top military attorney's put me in contact with Attorney Robert O'Connor because of his sincere dedication to help people in need. Asking him to represent me was the best decision I could have made for my civil contract case.
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21 Mar, 2017 by Bob
Louis Martini stayed by my side and fought for me and the best interests of my daughter. Louis always was available to talk to me anytime I needed his help. He explained every step so that I understood what course my case was on at all times. I am grateful for his assistance and I would recommend Louis to anyone involved in a custody situation. Louis will get the job done!
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01 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
When I had my second DUI, Mr.Martini was very helpful. He got me the lowest penalty. I did no jail time for my second offense but I was on house arrest for 10 days, had to take classes (wasn't too bad), 80 hours community service, and . This was not bad considering the many people I talked to during my community service either had to do some amount of time in jail for a second DUI offense or they had house arrest for 30-60 days, some even had both. I managed not to drink and drive anymore, it's really not worth risking the lives of others besides a lot of money I had to put out.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Mike
I had the privilege of utilizing Mr. Bottiglieri recently and was very great full for his services. He was able to provide the positive outcome in my situation. I wouldn't hesitate to call his office to get his legal advice for your matter.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Jason
I had a property that I was renting for quite a while close to 8 years making no money on it and dreaded foreclosure. When I finally reached the point that I needed to give up on it I did an internet search because I did not nowhere to turn. I came across Steven bottliglieri. He had some pretty good reviews and I thought I would give him a shot. He was able to adjust my foreclosure to the time frame that I needed. I feel that his pay rate was very reasonable. He often took emails and calls without charging me. Now after 3 years, my choice to prolong the foreclosure, he not only settled my claim completely without any further pay to the bank. I feel like he always answered my questions and he was always able to work with me when I had a little trouble switching jobs and needed to work out a payment plan. I never met him which I know is a scare for a lot of people but I will tell you he did everything he told me you would do and I feel like a little more I will always recommend him. -MJB
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08 Oct, 2021 by Joshua
Johnathan, Ian are amazing. Cut throat and do what is in best interest of their clients. I will definitely use them again in the future when I go for child custody battle.
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27 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
My husband and I have been working with Jon for approximately two years and we are extremely satisfied with his services and expertise. He is always there for us with the cases we are dealing with but does assist us on on other matters as well. We are very lucky to have found him and recommend him highly.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Joy
Sherri had represented me for 6 months for a case where i was looking at close to 4 to 10 yrs worth of jail time, looking at that is something i was terrified about so i googled best criminal defense attorneys n i came across someone else but they handle a cases like mine so they referred me to Ms. Eyer she was on vacation when i contacted her but she immediately contacted me back she look at case n gave me the real the pros n cons n i needed that so i would know what i was facing, make a long story short after 6 months of count i was scared that the D.A. was determine to lock me up, but remember i was looking at 4 to 10 Ms. Eyer was able to get 1 yr probation n a anger management class she definitely worth hiring...if ur in n a difficult state she understanding, patient n there for her clients.
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19 May, 2014 by Susan
Sherri represented me in a matter within the last year. She obviously has a thorough knowledge of the law and I was impressed with her attention to detail. She got me the result I was hoping for and went the extra mile in order to do so. I've worked with a few attorneys in the past and she was definitely top-notch. I was especially pleased with how responsive she was to all of my questions. For all the work she did on my case, the fee was reasonable.
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08 Jun, 2017 by Daon
Sep 6 I was charged with serious charges that could have cost me 5 years John was ready and got all charges dropped robbery agg assault in prelim hearing he studied that case from a to b and the truth came out and I was released
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07 Nov, 2016 by Karen a. paul
Mr Flannery helped my daughter with a situation for a criminal offense pro bono. He was awesome, helpful and professional. No only did he help her before the judge but helped after she was released at no charge.
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13 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Bar none, one of the top attorneys i've worked with. Hes nothing but honest and straightforward, he truely cares about the outcome of his clients cases; not just the money like alot of other attorneys. Over the years I've worked with several attorneys for everything from minor criminal cases( DUI in my younger years) to serious business matters. Robert Turco is the first lawyer i can truthfully say i can trust with out question. He helped make a bad legal situation, with potentially catastrophic ramifications, turn out in the best possible way. Reguardless of the area of law, he would be the first attorney i would recommend everytime
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01 Jun, 2016 by Stephanie
I needed an attorney last minute and Mike responded back to me immediately and set up a consult. I have worked for several attorneys and was very impressed with Mike's knowledge and the legal advice he provided. I had been worried about trying to hire an attorney at the last minute but left the meeting feeling a thousand times better. Mike seems confident in his representation abilities and had the best legal advice I had received after talking to several attorneys. Definitely recommend!
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20 Nov, 2020 by Jim
Attorney Ramunno was excellent. Hired her for a name change. I understand this is not a complicated issue but I was extremely pleased with how efficient and professional she was. I would recommend Lorraine as a legal counselor.
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26 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
You will know when Josh is on your case, that you are in good hands. He is just, fair and works hard for his clients.
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07 Oct, 2021 by Donna
Jacobs is a very good hard-working attorney who is successful and thorough. if you have a question he takes the time to answer it.
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11 Apr, 2013 by Grace
John Neumann Hickey, Esq. has my vote for being the number 1 defense attorney in Delaware County, PA! John has the knowledge, experience education, and background to defend your case, especially in the Delaware County Justice Court System! I was very lucky to have found him through a recommendation from an attorney friend and will forever be grateful for his outstanding legal services! I never realized how complicated, costly and time consuming the legal system can be; this was my first time I was charged and arrested for any criminal matter. Without John Neumann Hickey, Esq., by my side defending me, I do not believe I would have been found NOT GUILTY of all the felony charges I was facing! FYI He is a no-nonsense attorney and I assure you, John Neumann Hickey, Esq., is worth every penny if you decide you want to hire the best attorney around in Delaware County, PA to defend your legal case!
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04 Feb, 2015 by Greg
Conal is committed to vigorously protecting the rights of victims harmed by others' wrongdoing. He enjoys a wealth of experience as a highly skilled trial lawyer. Equally importantly, he unfailingly demonstrates both a keen compassion toward his clients and impeccable ethical standards. Put simply, you want Conal as your lawyer , and in your corner...In my opinion, he is a leader amongst the trial attorneys in Pennsylvania, not only because he is an extremely accomplished litigator but also because he gets successful results !!!!
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26 Jul, 2015 by Rudolpoh
A big thank you to Christopher Welsh of attorneys of Budash and Wesh.
Chris went above and beyond to rectify my final child support hearing. Instead of an arrears payment the rest of my life, Chris got me a refund! The professionalism of Chris was amazing. I am very impressed on how hard he worked on my case. I will always recommend the attorney Chris Welsh!!
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31 Jul, 2019 by Shamina olia
29 Oct, 2018 by Saud siddiqui
Great Experience.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Ana
Steve is an outstanding lawyer! If I could give him ten stars, I would. He is professional, honest and fights hard for his clients. My brother was in a difficult situation and Steve amazed us all with what he was able to do. We cannot thank him enough!!!
I highly recommend Steve Pacillio!
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5.0
24 Reviews
4.7
109 Reviews
02 Oct, 2024 by David spence
Mr Lesniak is responsive and friendly.
He answered a couple questions for me and only asked for a positive review. I will happily leave a 5 star review. Thank you for being so helpful and down to earth.
GOD BLESS
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27 Aug, 2024 by Robert edwards
08 Jul, 2024 by David joseph
Amazing law firm. I have been a client for over 15 years and always get treated more like family instead of a client. They will go to war for you and make sure all your needs are met and in a very timely manner. Mr Schuster and Justine B are extremely great at what they do and so is the rest of the staff. I recommend you give them a call, trust me you won't regret it.
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11 May, 2021 by Richard obrien
Joe did a great job considering my record... He answered all my questions and my 10,000 text messages ... Good job thank you for your patience and your hard work... And the time that you put in to my case it is appreciated thank you Joe...
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08 Dec, 2020 by Raymond
Joe handled a case that was over 50 years ago for me..This case was emotional and mentally draining..It involved abuse and violation of ones physical being. The professionalism that his staff as well as the beyond their calling was amazing..Joe has been my attorney for over 40 years..I will never have another attorney in Pennsylvania or New Jersey
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09 Apr, 2015 by James
Because of Mr.Malley and his associate Dana Ingrim. I was able to successfully dispute a landlord/tenant issue regarding dwelling conditions. If not for these caring and knowledgeable people I wold have been sunk. Eternally grateful.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Richard pugach
Dan McGarrigle is extraordinary. He understands the System, and was as diligent on a smaller case as he was on a larger one.
Rick, Havertown, PA
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11 Oct, 2024 by Katelyn wilson
I honestly cannot thank them enough. They took all of the anxiety out of the process, were there every step of the way, and got me the best possible outcome that I didn't even think was possible. I highly recommend Dan McGarrigle to anyone in need of representation!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Shakeeta wilder
02 Oct, 2024 by David spence
Mr Lesniak is responsive and friendly.
He answered a couple questions for me and only asked for a positive review. I will happily leave a 5 star review. Thank you for being so helpful and down to earth.
GOD BLESS
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27 Aug, 2024 by Robert edwards
08 Jul, 2024 by David joseph
Amazing law firm. I have been a client for over 15 years and always get treated more like family instead of a client. They will go to war for you and make sure all your needs are met and in a very timely manner. Mr Schuster and Justine B are extremely great at what they do and so is the rest of the staff. I recommend you give them a call, trust me you won't regret it.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Adam kuhn
02 May, 2024 by Anna n. jones
06 Feb, 2024 by Connie coleman
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
