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28 Mar, 2022 by Twana jackson
Tom is excellent attorney that does what he say he will do.I hired him for my brother and he helped him out tremendously I dont know what would have happen without Tom.!!!
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02 Nov, 2021 by Ismael valdez
02 Apr, 2021 by Tony cash
15 Nov, 2014 by Coyhisdallas
She is a great attorney, she save me a lot of years and prison and she also handle someone else case I know and won her revocation hearing, Dianna Erickson if I never took the time to say Thank you, I apologize, I'm saying it now, I completed my time successful and move on...
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17 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Helped me with a marijuana case with intent to deliver happy with the outcome
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23 Jan, 2019 by Lawrence bell
Very professional
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05 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I believe that Duke J. Lehto did a good job with the case he was given.
He had a challenging fight, considering he was dealing with opinions from three intervening systems at one time.
I appreciate the work that Duke has done with my personal case file.
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03 May, 2023 by Jeff crabb
I own a business and John and his legal assistant have helped me out with a number of business related items over the years. This firm will come through for you as they always have for me. I'd give 10 stars if I could.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Eagle eye
Excellent Firm. Brad and his team are beyond awesome! They move swiftly on your behalf and will keep an open line of communication. If they are on your side, you can lay aside your stress and relax.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Gary haas
Concern #1: Do these guys know what they are doing? I was impressed with their structured approach. This made me feel comfortable that nothing would be "missed." Their free video library helped me understand trusts / wills. The videos also showed their knowledge and professionalism.
Concern #2: What is their patience for answering questions? Trusts / Wills are new to me and it is easy for my mind to glaze over. This was not their first "rodeo." They answered / anticipated my questions until I felt I had enough understanding.
Concern #3: What happens if I have a life changing event or there are issues after I die? They set up a process to deal with these issues.
Why did I want to get a trust? I was the personal representative for two estates. Probate is a tedious, expensive and time consuming process. The money I spent to establish my trusts is significantly less than probate costs.
In a short period of time I was able to make sure my estate could be settled quickly and easily.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Luke j
Mr. Hattley defense strategy was to have be evaluated for competency from the get go. I leave the hospital on Sep 11 for chest pain, which the hospital wouldnt treat me for because I’ve been put on disruptive list or Do not treat list. On Sep 20, 2022 I submit complaints to the DOJ and Washington OIG regarding my healthcare. Then I am violently arrested and tasered in the chest on OCT 10. I communicated to him several times to request the hospital videos of me being struck in the forehead by police officer while handcuffed with two officer behind me while I’m cooperating .He didn’t follow through and those videos were lost. I requested in person and through email for him to secure the body cam footage of my arrest that happen in West Allis. It took him nearly six months to attain those. He watched the videos with me of the west Allis police using extreme unnecessarily force including one officer choking me with two hands in the hospital bed. My thumb was broken and I had bloody wrists, and a burn mark on my ankle from wear a taser was held. And promised me that this will all go away. The West Allis Police wrote multiple false charges and those body cam videos show clear and concise evidence of their crimes. He then gave me the body cam footage on a flash drive which I watched with my wife. My wife an MPS teacher was hit by a car on 3 different occasions and our apartment was broken into during the trial. Mr. Hartley didn’t fight for me or justice in the courtroom he only saw me as number and disabled veteran and that was his defense strategy. He promised me that this would all go away however he ran away and wouldn’t even help me file an excessive force complaint but he did get the case dismissed due to incompetence and further silenced me to not allow me to testify. The United States Army has now violated all of my civil and Human rights.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Rhonda anita
Wow! Reading through the reviews I wondered if it was my son posting because many sound like our experience. You either trust her or you don’t! We had a ton of questions and she did answer all of them. We bumped heads sometimes as a mother you can get anxious during something as serious as intentional homicide. Nettie won this self defense trial for my son who was facing life in prison now he has life to be who he is. Nettie listens and she partners with the defendant in preparing for trial. Well worth every dime. Her response time is even more remarkable than what I hear from others who have hired an attorney. I see Super Lawyer in her near future. Thank you Nettie for seeing and fighting for the truth to be heard. Chris assisted like a champ. These two are a quiet storm. Dynamic duo….
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02 Aug, 2024 by Calvin henry
Nettie Rauch is heaven sent!!!! I went to court today 8/2/24 for self defense case and Attorney Rauch handled my case professionally and she really cared about what happened to me. We Won my Case and I thank God for Attorney Rauch 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 I HIGHLY AND I MEAN HIGHLY recommend Attorney Rauch!!! Thank you So Much!!!
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04 Dec, 2023 by Tim
I had a wrongful termination suit for which I hired Victor. My first question to him was whether it was worth going forward. His judgment was that it was--as it turned out he was wrong in that. But I had to pay for his miscalculation not him. I know there are no crystal balls that can see the future, but what was worse than his poor judgement is that he claimed an exorbitant number of hours which he did not discuss with me and I did not authorize. So not only did he lose my case, but he was consistently slow to respond in a fast moving situation, and I ended up getting over $6000 bill for his unauthorized work. I would only recommend him as a lawyer for somebody you dislike.
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06 May, 2022 by Ed callahan
The Victor and Rose deJong team is just great. They are responsive like a smaller firm, but with top notch talent like a larger firm. They can help you with whatever you need from corporate/transactional work to litigation.
Victor helped me through a few franchising and non compete agreements and I could not have asked for more. Thank you!
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09 Mar, 2022 by Ty
Victor has been fantastic in my defense and has far exceeded my expectations. He has demonstrated extreme professionalism, and been very responsive and knowledgeable in helping me both understand and navigate my difficult case. Additionally, he has made me feel like he holds a personal concern in getting me the best outcome. There is not another attorney whos judgment and recommendation I would personally trust more than Victor.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Caroline arndt
While I strongly dislike writing poor reviews, I feel an ethical obligation to warn the public about this law firm. Simply put, John Machulak has no communciation skills. The reason I am giving him 3 stars is ONLY because of his administrative assistant. She is his saving grace. She has fantastic communication skills and an amazing work ethic. However, there is only so much she can do.
There was no strategy meeting, no set goals/deadlines, emails/phone calls were constantly ignored and I was never coached for arbitration. The day before arbitration (while I was trying to board an airplane to attend the arbitration) attorney Machulak expected me to be able to review and go through evidence for the following day. How am I supposed to do this 33,000 feet up in the air? Everything with him is extremely last minute and then he expects you to drop whatever you are doing and respond to him immediately after ignoring you for days. He clearly demonstrated a lack of respect for my time repeatedly.
Billing is extremely confusing. Invoices are very difficult to read, not itemized by hour and not provided in a timely manner. I asked for a current balance the morning of arbitration and he was unable to provide me with one. I asked for paid receipts for bookkeeping and still have not received any. I finally received a huge invoice that I was unprepared for (because it was never communicated with me what he was working on) weeks after arbitration was over.
This past 1 1/2 years have been the most stressful of my entire life and working with attorney Machulak made it twice as stressful as it needed to be. It was a favorable outcome, however, a lot of last minute stress could have been avoided, many billable hours could have been saved, and the arbitration could have been MUCH shorter had he simply held an hour strategy meeting with me well in advance to go over evidence and properly prepare for the day.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Nora hitchcock
30 Dec, 2020 by Kurt kaufmann
John and team are some of the best in the business. Their attention to detail particularly as it relates to contracts and agreements are second to none. I recommend 10/10
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22 Oct, 2024 by Luke j
Mr. Hattley defense strategy was to have be evaluated for competency from the get go. I leave the hospital on Sep 11 for chest pain, which the hospital wouldnt treat me for because I’ve been put on disruptive list or Do not treat list. On Sep 20, 2022 I submit complaints to the DOJ and Washington OIG regarding my healthcare. Then I am violently arrested and tasered in the chest on OCT 10. I communicated to him several times to request the hospital videos of me being struck in the forehead by police officer while handcuffed with two officer behind me while I’m cooperating .He didn’t follow through and those videos were lost. I requested in person and through email for him to secure the body cam footage of my arrest that happen in West Allis. It took him nearly six months to attain those. He watched the videos with me of the west Allis police using extreme unnecessarily force including one officer choking me with two hands in the hospital bed. My thumb was broken and I had bloody wrists, and a burn mark on my ankle from wear a taser was held. And promised me that this will all go away. The West Allis Police wrote multiple false charges and those body cam videos show clear and concise evidence of their crimes. He then gave me the body cam footage on a flash drive which I watched with my wife. My wife an MPS teacher was hit by a car on 3 different occasions and our apartment was broken into during the trial. Mr. Hartley didn’t fight for me or justice in the courtroom he only saw me as number and disabled veteran and that was his defense strategy. He promised me that this would all go away however he ran away and wouldn’t even help me file an excessive force complaint but he did get the case dismissed due to incompetence and further silenced me to not allow me to testify. The United States Army has now violated all of my civil and Human rights.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Rhonda anita
Wow! Reading through the reviews I wondered if it was my son posting because many sound like our experience. You either trust her or you don’t! We had a ton of questions and she did answer all of them. We bumped heads sometimes as a mother you can get anxious during something as serious as intentional homicide. Nettie won this self defense trial for my son who was facing life in prison now he has life to be who he is. Nettie listens and she partners with the defendant in preparing for trial. Well worth every dime. Her response time is even more remarkable than what I hear from others who have hired an attorney. I see Super Lawyer in her near future. Thank you Nettie for seeing and fighting for the truth to be heard. Chris assisted like a champ. These two are a quiet storm. Dynamic duo….
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02 Aug, 2024 by Calvin henry
Nettie Rauch is heaven sent!!!! I went to court today 8/2/24 for self defense case and Attorney Rauch handled my case professionally and she really cared about what happened to me. We Won my Case and I thank God for Attorney Rauch 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 I HIGHLY AND I MEAN HIGHLY recommend Attorney Rauch!!! Thank you So Much!!!
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29 Dec, 2021 by Byron
Best lawyer I’ve had! Represented me on a case where crooked police charged me with a gun I’ve never seen before. At our initial meeting she believed me! Which was a huge relief because my previous lawyer (Mark Pecora) suggested I take a plea!! Ann went to trial and fought for me like it was her freedom in the line! She shed tears, even almost got held in contempt! I had five police lying in me in court! Five! Four officers & a sergeant (all no longer officers, felons now) coming to court lying. Well she went in there and beat the case!! Very passionate about her work and will fight for her clients.
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13 Sep, 2021 by Kim
My family and I hired her for my son in 2016. She told me that because someone jumped on his case (that was in jail) and was going to testify against him. She (Anne Bowe) told me that if my son didn't take the D.A. offer of 15 years then she would drop him (my son) as a client and testify against him. So, I would advise anyone not to hire her at all.
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06 Sep, 2019 by Helen
Ann represented my husband 17yrs ago and this past 2 months I've been in contact with her for help obtaining paperwork for him and she has been such a big help. She answers all my questions text and calls she even returned my call while sick with a sore throat barley able to talk on a Saturday! I appreciate her so much for taking time out for us we need more people who have such a kind spirit.
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16 Mar, 2017 by Zerell
I was put in jail faceing 90 years for a crime I didn't commit. Apparently innocent until proven guilty isn't enforced in this day. However Lori stood firm on the rights of a person in the justice system. She went over and beyond her duty of defense in order to get the case dismissed. She stood firm on the Truth with facts and data. I never would have been given this opportunity to have a second chance at life to seek a career get married have child if it wasn't for Lori Kuehn. Also a special thank you to her investigator .
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15 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I had an issue that was resolved immediately with Attorney Kuehn's help. I had no problem reaching her via phone.
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12 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I had never seen an attorney that you can not reach by telephone. When you call her number she has an voice message that states "text her the message and she will get back to you". How would an inmate be able to text her? She doesn't return phone messages. In my opinion, she doesn't listen to the client and does her own thing.
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17 Dec, 2023 by Pouncho hunley
Attorney Winters has been my legal counsel for over 20 years. I’m so grateful and honored to have met him.
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13 May, 2023 by Reuven cocos
Avoid if you can. I absolutely regret using his services.
He has an inflated sense of what he is worth, and has no qualms charging a ridiculous amount of money for his very average work(at best). I would give him zero stars if I could.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Acirra robinson
This Guy “Micheal Winters” was very rude, had no intentions on being any help. I was rushed off the phone and the purpose of getting a consultation is because someone lacks the knowledge, so to knock someone down for trying to get answers is very unreasonable and rude. This man should not be in this business, definitely not a people person.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Yahneisha
After calling back to back for a week still haven’t heard anything back. My public defender doesn’t even answer the phone. I’ve left more than 4 voicemails and haven’t received anything back.
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26 Sep, 2022 by Keiona brown
03 Apr, 2022 by David ziegler
Months behind. Expect to rot in county jail w postponed court dates until a pretender shows up.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Yahneisha
After calling back to back for a week still haven’t heard anything back. My public defender doesn’t even answer the phone. I’ve left more than 4 voicemails and haven’t received anything back.
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26 Sep, 2022 by Keiona brown
03 Apr, 2022 by David ziegler
Months behind. Expect to rot in county jail w postponed court dates until a pretender shows up.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Yahneisha
After calling back to back for a week still haven’t heard anything back. My public defender doesn’t even answer the phone. I’ve left more than 4 voicemails and haven’t received anything back.
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26 Sep, 2022 by Keiona brown
03 Apr, 2022 by David ziegler
Months behind. Expect to rot in county jail w postponed court dates until a pretender shows up.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Yahneisha
After calling back to back for a week still haven’t heard anything back. My public defender doesn’t even answer the phone. I’ve left more than 4 voicemails and haven’t received anything back.
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26 Sep, 2022 by Keiona brown
03 Apr, 2022 by David ziegler
Months behind. Expect to rot in county jail w postponed court dates until a pretender shows up.
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31 Jan, 2022 by Tanieja milan
Megan Kalbunsci is not a good lawyer. She is not consistent with her clients. She don’t like to answer her phone or voicemails. My boyfriend got 4 years because of her.
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09 Aug, 2021 by Peter peter
I’m glad I found this law firm I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney than sarah Zwach very professional very nice and reassured me that my situation would be taken care of and it was there was something more to this law firm than just being professional they were human any place else I could have retained an attorney they would have been those stuffy law firm attorney here you get professional and human I would highly recommend and I’m so happy now that my situation has been taken care of
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06 Aug, 2021 by Slappin packz
Pretty decent place
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23 Feb, 2018 by Karen
We hired Imhoff & Associates that contracts with Mr Kerner in SE Wisconsin. The retainer we had to pay is 3 times higher than other attorney's we interviewed. We had very little contact as he barely returned emails or phone calls. Under his care the charges against me mounted up as he didn't speak with DA, as our new attorney has. Where other attorney contracts stipulate that $ will be refunded for hours not used, there is a vague clause in his contracts that says they will not refund any $ we paid.
If you need action, you should find another attorney.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I was mistreated by police officers and wrongly accused . I was also denied medical attention and heart medication which law enforcement was clearly aware of. In fact they never even checked on me or had a nurse talk to me or anything. William took care of everything and my case was dismissed. I can't thank him enough. I would recommend this Lawyer to anyone which I already have.
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18 Apr, 2014 by Ray
If you mess up, you are going to be punished- accept that fact. Kerner didn't comfort me or give me that warm, fuzzy feeling- & I understand that lawyers are busy & don't return every call. But when I really needed him to perform, he did,,, and then some. He told me what I needed to do, and he did what he needed to do. Without his expertise, I would have been locked up for a long time. He was able to reach a compromise where both sides were happy. When someone is speaking to a judge on your behalf, you better have a good lawyer. Kerner was very professional & knowledgeable, and his years of experience show when it counts.
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09 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
All she cares about is trying to make a name for herself. She doesn’t care if she represents someone she knows 100% in her heart is guilty as long as she gets paid. God help her.
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23 Jun, 2010 by Stevan
I was allegedly pulled over for an unsafe lane deviation, and subsequent OWI. I knew I had not deviated from lane. I called the law firm of Kim & Lavoy, who subsequently set me up with Bridget. She was straight-forward and honest, and knew how to attack this case. After reviewing the evidence, we filed a motion to suppress evidence, due to an illegal stop. At the motion hearing, Bridget did a great job on the cross-examination. The officer was very shaky with his testimony, and the video clearly showed no violation. All charges were dismissed. Her knowledge on the OWI law is top notch. I will definitely recommend her to anyone who was in my position.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sonja wilson
Conner Helvig five stars. Professional, prompt, courteous.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mat kuttamparambil
Matthew is a bold strategist that tackles issues head on with the goals of his clients being his utmost priority. I contacted Matthew as soon as I knew I had a hearing (a day prior!) He immediately reached out to me and gave me a consultation. Speaking to Matthew gave me the confidence I needed to hire him to keep my innocence. He immediately took note of my side of the story in full context and told me of what to prepare for in the charging court. Matthew's wit and knowledge was important in getting my case completely dismissed before I was even charged!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shanta hill
Ben is excellent! He is extremely professional and honest. I would recommend him to anyone that is in need of a Criminal Attorney.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Don
Love the guy! He failed to show the first time, but you know, he's a busy guy getting guys like me off the hook for things I shouldn't have done!
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06 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
He took my case which was very simple. Failed to show up twice, judge held him in contempt. Ultimately judge allowed me to find new counsel. Judge severely reprimanded him in open court .
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31 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Never remembered my case, always had an excuse to why. Always fought with me about my case. Threaten that he would not fight on my behalf. Never filed anything until court was in session.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Travis bass
I’m a retired federal agent, after arriving time with special operations in the military. I was discharged from the Jessie Brown VA and pulled over. I have a drinking problem and was there to detox. I had a seizure upon discharge. These guys told me it’s “only a misdemeanor.” That was in 2020. I have sense relocated and found out upon renewing my license that it wasn’t valid. Literally the worst law firm I have worked with. Do not use them!
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22 Sep, 2023 by Ottavien willingham
Would not recommend, after paying $3,500 John German did nothing for us to help argue our case and get it lowered. It’s like he just collected a nice paycheck and did nothing. Very hard to get in communication with says he will call and that doesn’t happen until days later.
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18 Aug, 2021 by Regina brodie-bailey
12 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I couldn't agree more with all the other reviews she has done enough damage to children so,and she needs to be removed from the courts and her law association because ,she is not there to do the right thing she is selfish.
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19 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
By far the worst attorney to represent you. She does not understand the law, has no court decorum and has no conscience. She must have gotten her law degree out of a cracker jack box. She was court-appointed to represent in a child custody case and didn’t even know the child’s name months into the case. Gave legal advice that was complete opposite of 3 other more experienced attorneys, one who said her advice is borderline criminal. Completely incompetent attorney. She should be investigated by the WI STATE BAR! Do not recommend, stay far away.
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27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Brooks was appointed as my representation in children's court and provided the worst representation possible. She is extremely unprofessional and will refuse to comply with any requests you make. She could not even remember my children's names or details of the case. She is only there to get paid by the state and won't even attempt to win your case. I will be filling an investigation against her with the office of lawyer regulation for several acts of misconduct. Any clients who get her appointed as there council should refuse her and ask for another attorney unless you want to loose your case and your children. She had no interest in my case and went against everything I requested and did irreparable damage to my case. She is the worst Attorney and hopefully this invitation will result in her getting disbarred it would save a lot of families from getting destroyed and save countless children from being permanently damaged by the system.
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06 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
He always showed up late on court dates and uses the excuse he was busy. Never picked up his phone. His voicemail is always full (tells you he never replies back to people). Told me I will be fine and I still did time. Waste of money, find a better lawyer.
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24 May, 2016 by Al
Did very little to help my case seemed he was in it for the money
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04 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired this guy for my divorce and he was terrible. He did not show up to court and didn't even bother to let me know. He wouldn't do things I would ask him to do. He never got back to me!!!! He ordered a GAL, when I ordered him not too. The other attorney cancelled the GAL and Mr. Rupich ordered it against my advice. I did not want the kids having to go through this. They had to appear before the GAL. I was a stay at home for 14 years and I got 50 50 placement!!!! I had no job for all those years and I got $275 a month in child support and NO spousal support of any kind. He ruined my life!!! I ended up firing him and had to get a new attorney! I can't even tell you how terrible he was. We almost had a signed agreement with every other weekend visitation until he ordered the GAL twice and didn't bother to show up in court!!
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19 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not use this person. He only cares about himself and money. He doesn't do any work other than review the charging documents and "wings" it in court. After he has your money he doesn't respond to calls or emails. He seems to have quite the ego, still don't understand why. Court officials obviously have little regard for him.
I experienced all of this first hand after it was too late.
There are plenty of similar comments on line. Wish I would have researched him beforehand.
In my opinion he shouldn't be allowed to practice law.
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05 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Do not use this attorney. I have been trying to reach him to get updates on my case, and he never returns calls or emails. Would not return my money for doing no work!
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18 Oct, 2017 by Russell
Meet him to talk about my case , charged me for my case and told me it will take two weeks to get study of my case, six months later nothing just paid .. all they care about money ..
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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.
