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30 Aug, 2024 by Mary mccurdy
I have worked with other firm's and was treated like a number instead of a person. I reached out to Wright Injury Law LLC and spoke with Rebecca and she treated me like family. She helped me with every question I had and advised me the best way to head with the needs I had. I would say for anyone and everyone to refer to this firms with any issues you may have.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Sukhpreet singh
28 Aug, 2024 by Amy cruz
08 Oct, 2024 by Janae wilson
Hands down the best attorney I have ever worked with. Scott helped me get a second chance and I am forever grateful. Please do not hesitate working with him. He’s the best !
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21 Aug, 2024 by George m
They were very professional and incredibly helpful to me. I highly recommend Mr.Hucks
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07 Aug, 2024 by Justin anderson
Scott and his team were excellent. Highly recommend him.
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5.0
22 Reviews
01 Oct, 2024 by Aydan
Robert was a very friendly and very personal lawyer who helped tremendously through my hard times. I highly recommend using MR.Sutton, he will always do his best and will work hard for you and your family.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Bod Sutton got my life back ! My DUI was horrific. I hurt some one and I was going to jail Mr Sutton created a path for me to stay out of jail and get everything of my record.
He's one hell of a lawyer!
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10 Feb, 2022 by Mike
Bob is an excellent Lawyer. His excellent knowledge of the Law was displayed from the very beginning.
Bob was always available and the professionalism he displayed during the entire process insured me that I made a great choice in legal representation.
Bob took a bad situation and turned it into an outstanding outcome.
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23 Jul, 2017 by Sarah
I have been represented by Gene Vaught three times. Two of the three for tickets in Horry County. I also was able to have him represent me during a lawsuit from a wreck. In all cases I have been very pleased and I appreciate his hard work! I would recommend him to anyone. He does a fantastic job!
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23 Jul, 2017 by Kim
Gene is passionate about helping everyone in need. Has a caring heart. Gene is very knowledgeable and intelligent. I highly recommend him.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Susan
Gene and his staff were excellent from the first meeting to final decision. Communication was awesome thru the entire process.
Highly recommend him and his office for any personal injury case!
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19 Feb, 2016 by William pokorny
Dean was put in charge of my case while he was working with Greg McCulloms Complete Legal Defense Team. From day one I knew I was in good hands! He kept me up to date on everything that was happening and made me feel comfortable while I was going through a tough time in my life. I was extremely satisfied with the outcome of my case! I highly recommend Dean Mureddu!
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09 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Dean is a fantastic attorney! My fiance was in a minor fender bender after a benefit and was intoxicated.
Even though he was 3 times the legal limit on the breathalyzer, Dean was able to get the case dismissed.
No adsap; no sr-22, no headaches. His knowledge and ability to have gotten this result still astounds me.
I would highly recommend him to all my friends and family.
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I was charged with simple possession and after seeking advice from several attorneys I have to say Mr. Mureddu gave me the best advise and charges were reduced to Conditional Discharge. What a knowledgeable attorney! No waiting when called him. My trust is with Dean and recommend him highly.
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07 Jun, 2018 by Kevin
I was picked out of random for a DUI leaving a restaurant in Murrells Inlet. I did not know of any lawyers in the Myrtle Beach area and when I did internet search for lawyers in Myrtle Beach, I was very impressed with Mr. Monckton's background. I met with Mr. Monckton and his paralegal. They told me that I had a great case because of my upcoming knee replacement surgery. His paralegal Rhonda kept up to date with everything and they got my DUI dismissed. I would highly recommend Mr. Monckton.
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21 Mar, 2017 by Dawn
My nephew became addicted to drugs 5 years ago. I brought him to Myrtle Beach in hopes of a new environment and to have the support of his family near him. In July 2016 drugs found their way back into his life and on August 14, 2016 he was arrested. I reached out to Billy Monckton, as I was unsure who I could turn to. He went and met with my nephew, listened to his side of the story and contacted me. He said he would represent my nephew. I knew at that moment my nephew was in good hands. After 7 months of my nephew behind bars Billy Monckton was able to secure Drug Court in lieu of the reduced sentence of 5 years in jail. Billy Monckton takes the time to know the reason(s) one came to the point they are in their life and what lead them to do a crime. He does his homework and does what is in the best interest of the client and not what the family wants at the immediate. Billy Monckton works for the long term success of his clients. Without Billy Monckton's expertise and willingness to go above and beyond, my nephew would not have a second lease on life. I would highly recommend Billy Monckton to anyone who was looking for counsel who cares, who is honest and who is willing to fight for ones rights.
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30 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Monckton has served my family on several occasions and we have always found him to be knowledgeable, respectful, and helpful. He provides clear explanations and recommendations regarding legal issues, and follows through to resolution of each issue.
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30 Jan, 2020 by Geri
GERI & JOE MINK
Thank you for your gracious help Mr. Austin Thomas and Patty. We can not tell you how we appreciated all your concern and help with our terrible situation that has been going on for 2 years plus. First, Patty had a gracious heart when I first called listened to our problem and right away made appointment for us to see Mr. Thomas the next day. Mr. Austin Thomas was kind enough to take time listen to our situation and explain what possible options we might have. He was willing to try his best to help us even though our situation was going to be hard. After a couple of months and it seemed we should just give up Mr. Thomas said he was still going to keep trying and he did not give up! All I can say is we can not thank you enough for your dedication, caring and kindness you gave us with this problem Please don’t ever change as your concern and caring are so much appreciated and is hard to find. We recommend Grooms and Thomas Law Firm to anyone who needs a good attorney. Thank you ever so much!
With Appreciation,
Ger Mink
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02 Jan, 2019 by Dean & patricia
My husband and I never had to hire a defense attorney for anything, therefore when we received a court document with a bogus BS claim we were referred to hire Attorney Mr. Thomas to defend us in this B.S. Litigation suit, Mr. Thomas was able to get it settled for the exact amount my husband originally agreed to with the other party and was honest with from the very beginning. We honestly believe our attorney Mr. Thomas could see the truth and followed it all the way through to the very end where it was settled out of court. My husband and I highly recommend attorney Mr. Thomas and although we don't think we'll be needing an attorney in the near future, if anything should arise, Mr. Thomas would definitely be our #1. attorney contact.
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28 Dec, 2018 by Holly
We hired Austin Thomas to file against a contractor for faulty installation. We felt that Austin went above and beyond to help us in the most fair and economically smart way possible. He resolved the case much quicker than we expected and would recommend him to anyone with confidence. Very professional, kind and above all...SMART!
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15 Dec, 2020 by Nina o.
I am so happy that Amy is my lawyer. She really produces great results. Thank you Amy, for everything!
~Nina O.
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26 Apr, 2019 by Tom
The Lovely Law Firm is a real honest law firm that goes above and beyond to get results and do care. I recommend them to everyone I see who needs help. Keep up the excellent work!
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29 Dec, 2016 by Claude
Great lawyer that works hard for her clients.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Mh
My husband and I hired Mallary during our recent real estate closing. Mallary and her staff were able to get everything in order for our closing in a short amount of time. She kept in constant contact with us and kept us up to speed on how things were going. Since then, we've hired Mallary for personal injury/automobile accident. She's been informative about what we can expect during the proceedings and given us the best advice on how to handle everything that is involved. Without a doubt we'll be using Mallary again as she can handle all types of our legal needs.
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28 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Grammar Law Firm was an excellent choice for legal representation. My case was drawn out for over 2 years and mr. Grammar and his staff work relentlessly to prove my innocence. I was kept informed throughout the entire process and the staff was always available for any questions or concerns I had along the way. I would absolutely recommend this group without hesitation. They are very educated and well versed in criminal Defence and Court conduct as well as professional and caring.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl russo
Knowledgeable and price was decent. Mr Butler was professional and honest.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Lacy larson
14 Feb, 2024 by David worley
Took care of my legal business promptly would recommend to anyone
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23 Jan, 2024 by Betty zabs
18 Dec, 2023 by Janet kimble
July 2021 while residing in Greenville, South Carolina, I was rear ended resulting in a roll over and totaling my car. As I laid inside of my car awaiting extraction, I knew I was going to need a personal injury lawyer as this was way more than a fender bender.
The morning after the accident I met my personal lawyer and while meeting with him asked if he knew of a reputable personal injury lawyer. He did: Mr. Joel Hughes in the law office of Kenneth Berger in Columbia, SC.
Mr. Hughes contacted me right away and met me at my house within a couple days. He assured me Berger's office does work all over the State of SC.
Immediately, I knew I was in good hands. Mr. Hughes questions were stop on and lots of information was exchanged in the next few days.
I was assured I could contact Mr. Hughes at any time, for any reason; something I did often.
Mr. Hughes took over, allowing me the time to heal and recover. He did all the heavy lifting, all the calls, organizing of medical records, all the negotiations. I was always kept informed. My input was asked for. My settlement was my decision. I was never pressured.
My case took 15 months to settle, basically until I was released from my Doctors. In that 15 months, I never felt ignored, alone, a number, or a paycheck.
Would I use this firm again? Of course. Would I recommend this firm to others? Of course!
An added bonus, this firm does charity work in and around Columbia. How nice is that?
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11 Dec, 2023 by Jerry moore
I found myself needing a lawyer and luckily found Brad with Kenneth Berger Law Offices. I knew I was in the right place when he referred me to another firm for my immediate issues.
While the other firm handled my problem very very well, I did end up back with Brad to finish up an even more important part of my problem that I didn't see coming.
These guys ARE VERY MUCH here to help and are thorough on every aspect of your needs, even when those needs may be better served by another office.
They really mean it when they say they don't take just anybody on as a client, but once they do, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of the very very best.
There is not enough stars to give these guys and gals.
FANTASTIC staff and lawyers!!!!
My family is blessed to have had you all help us!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Betty zabs
18 Dec, 2023 by Janet kimble
July 2021 while residing in Greenville, South Carolina, I was rear ended resulting in a roll over and totaling my car. As I laid inside of my car awaiting extraction, I knew I was going to need a personal injury lawyer as this was way more than a fender bender.
The morning after the accident I met my personal lawyer and while meeting with him asked if he knew of a reputable personal injury lawyer. He did: Mr. Joel Hughes in the law office of Kenneth Berger in Columbia, SC.
Mr. Hughes contacted me right away and met me at my house within a couple days. He assured me Berger's office does work all over the State of SC.
Immediately, I knew I was in good hands. Mr. Hughes questions were stop on and lots of information was exchanged in the next few days.
I was assured I could contact Mr. Hughes at any time, for any reason; something I did often.
Mr. Hughes took over, allowing me the time to heal and recover. He did all the heavy lifting, all the calls, organizing of medical records, all the negotiations. I was always kept informed. My input was asked for. My settlement was my decision. I was never pressured.
My case took 15 months to settle, basically until I was released from my Doctors. In that 15 months, I never felt ignored, alone, a number, or a paycheck.
Would I use this firm again? Of course. Would I recommend this firm to others? Of course!
An added bonus, this firm does charity work in and around Columbia. How nice is that?
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11 Dec, 2023 by Jerry moore
I found myself needing a lawyer and luckily found Brad with Kenneth Berger Law Offices. I knew I was in the right place when he referred me to another firm for my immediate issues.
While the other firm handled my problem very very well, I did end up back with Brad to finish up an even more important part of my problem that I didn't see coming.
These guys ARE VERY MUCH here to help and are thorough on every aspect of your needs, even when those needs may be better served by another office.
They really mean it when they say they don't take just anybody on as a client, but once they do, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of the very very best.
There is not enough stars to give these guys and gals.
FANTASTIC staff and lawyers!!!!
My family is blessed to have had you all help us!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Alexis funny
Never answer calls from their clients or return messages
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ronald young
Axelrod and Associates, p.a just outstanding firm very responsive keeping me informed step by step they treated me with alot of respect that's professionalism and organization of handling my case leaving me great results highly recommend
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10 Mar, 2024 by Jeremy
17 Jun, 2024 by Wilbur
I like to thank you for your help in helping me with your service with my ticket and in getting the job done to the highest
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29 Jun, 2023 by Terry
Truly a fantastic law firm. Being out of state I was not sure how to handle my ticket violation. When I called I knew full well they had bigger issues to resolve, I explained the situation and they took my case. Everyone I spoke to was extremely professional and they put my mind at ease. I followed through with all their instructions and in the end the ticket was dismissed end of story.
If you ever get a traffic ticket in the greater Myrtle Beach area definitely give these folk a call.
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13 Feb, 2023 by Ronnie
I was extremely impressed with Lovely Law Firm. My son got a ticket while visiting SC. They took care of everything! Speeding ticket dropped to a nonmoving violation. Jessica was amazing and went above and beyond!! Thanks Jessica!!
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15 Nov, 2015 by Alan
I was considering pleading guilty to a serious traffic offense which could have called for jail time, but I subsequently decided to hire the Frederick Law Office. I was interviewed by Bobby Frederick and Lacey Lee; they walked me through my charges and talked about how they would proceed to defend me.
Everything was expertly and efficiently done, as they said it would be. Not only was my charge dismissed, but they were able to have it reduced to a lesser offense. Also, thanks to their counsel, I was even able to retain my driver's license for the long waiting period...inherent in this type of case. I would certainly recommend Mr. Frederick's firm to anyone needing a competent defense.
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26 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Bobby was very knowledgeable trustworthy and committed to my husband's case. With all the charges that kept getting stacked against him, I never thought we would get out of it, but somehow Bobby got him a great deal. He never really considered going to trial, not that I am saying it as a negative thing, but it seems to be in contrast with the multiple other reviews stating he is a fan of jury trials. Maybe he just considered my husband's case not jury - compatible, but reading all these reviews it seems he kicks butt in trial, so I think he probably would have won. But I digress, I am sure he knows better than me. Either way, a great attorney!
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02 Jun, 2015 by Kelly
My family member was facing a ridiculous but very serious charge. We were foolish and waited until it was time for trial to find an attorney. After several phone calls we called Bobby Frederick back. He never tried to force anyone to plea he just gives you your options. If the prosecution offers you a plea it's his job to tell you. We weighed the options that he gave us and ultimately took it to trial. Someone's life hung in the balance and it didn't look good. He won that trial. A unanimous not guilty verdict. I am so forever grateful. I sincerely love everyone in his firm for all their effort and hard work. I can't say enough about these people. I would earnestly recommend them to everyone.
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21 Jun, 2021 by Jason
I hired daniel in February last year and took his advice in confidence and he seemed very professional and good at what he does. I had alot to lose in my divorce if things weren't handled correctly. He made up a general separation agreement for us to get started on sent it to my wife's attorney. There was only a couple of things that needed to be changed. Small changes on child support that me my wife both agreed on and that I would kept my property that I bought and paid for myself. I informed Daniel that we needed to move fast and get her the documents changes so I could lock in my house and those child support numbers we agreed on.Fast forward to November and still I'm calling begging him to send a counter offer with small changes. I ask for everything on my case and it was clear to me then that no other offers had been sent to my wife's attorney. So of course by this time my wife was very upset that no agreement for child support or anything was in place still. Even had her attorney complaining in writing and wanting to go to court for lack of effort done towards my case. I hired a new attorney and had to take a really bad agreement because at that point we had a court date within weeks and she asking for way more at that point and rightfully so. I quickly realized the quick response and work on my case by new attorney that I was set aside. I ask Daniel for a refund because he only did one thing on my case in that amount of time and how it affected me. He response was I didnt pay him for a contested divorce so he did me a favor and cut me a deal.i hope noone else has to go through that with Daniel or any attorney because divorce is hard enough as it is. I dont know what was going on that he could never send any offers and work on my case. I got told alot of times by him that he would have it next week.Then I would call for days no response. I had alot of stress and anxiety, getting done like that over and over. I would not recommend Daniel in a divorce case if he needs more money to work on your case he needs to tell you so you know nothing is being done. Not recommended.
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13 Jan, 2017 by Song
Mr. Daniel is great! He has helped me every step of the way with my case. He is an attorney who is honest, responsive, and compassionate. He has tremendous patience and dedication to his client and knows how to deal with the most nerve racking circumstances. He's very knowledgeable and focuses on what's important to his client. The staffs at his office are very nice too. I highly recommend him.
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14 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Daniel is the BEST!!! He gave us free advice over the phone for 1 situation that saved us tons of money and heartache and saved our child's behind in another situation! Reasonably priced and took payments!! Would HIGHLY recommend him!!!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Alan klenetsky
Axelrod and associates have railroaded me, they should’ve seen me in a small claims court for me to receive my money back but because they knew I would win that suit they sued me for more money to bring it to a different court a court where they are probably well known and I’m a nobody! I have proof that Axelrod has lied to me and I have paper proof of that. They hired a lawyer, ballad and watson to try to intimidate me with letters and letters and letters! I’ve been waiting months and months for the court to send me a court date to defend myself, and to receive my money back from someone that who has lied and deceived me during my whole case. Axelrod gave me back half of my money, I wonder why? Just a warning in my opinion do not use Axelrod and associates. They have deceived and lied to me many times, and was very unprofessional to say the least! In my opinion, I would never use this law firm again, unless you want to lose money with no representation, or maybe a little, but not $5000 worth that’s for sure he cost me nothing but heartache and depression, and I have papers to show that he lied to me!!!! i’m looking for anyone that could help me bring this case to justice and Mr. Axelrod and associates! I have no money I had to go to a public defender because he did not return the funds for not representing me correctly, which is malpractice!!! I need help to defend and proceed against this giant monster!!
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28 Oct, 2022 by Karen thompson
Looking for my uncle
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18 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Jeffrey is hands down one of the best , he’s works with you & very patient. I had a DUI charge he had dropped down to reckless driving. Without a doubt best on the beach
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13 Jul, 2022 by Andrew
Outstanding service in all aspects of my case. Exceptional communication whenever I needed them they were available, even after hours. Worked on my case diligently and we’re willing to fight until I got the result I wanted regardless of how long it may have taken. 12/10 would recommend this firm to anyone in need.
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04 Jun, 2022 by Sam
Greg McCollum, by far is the most kind, attorney I know he cares about the outcome of the situation at hand. He answers questions and is always a phone call away early morning , noon, or night. When I made the choice to hire him it was the best decision ever.
If you want the same treatment and more you should hire him to.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This is very specific... lied... says one thing on phone or face to face and doesn’t follow through in court. Was always a step behind... day late in the case.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Alan klenetsky
Axelrod and associates have railroaded me, they should’ve seen me in a small claims court for me to receive my money back but because they knew I would win that suit they sued me for more money to bring it to a different court a court where they are probably well known and I’m a nobody! I have proof that Axelrod has lied to me and I have paper proof of that. They hired a lawyer, ballad and watson to try to intimidate me with letters and letters and letters! I’ve been waiting months and months for the court to send me a court date to defend myself, and to receive my money back from someone that who has lied and deceived me during my whole case. Axelrod gave me back half of my money, I wonder why? Just a warning in my opinion do not use Axelrod and associates. They have deceived and lied to me many times, and was very unprofessional to say the least! In my opinion, I would never use this law firm again, unless you want to lose money with no representation, or maybe a little, but not $5000 worth that’s for sure he cost me nothing but heartache and depression, and I have papers to show that he lied to me!!!! i’m looking for anyone that could help me bring this case to justice and Mr. Axelrod and associates! I have no money I had to go to a public defender because he did not return the funds for not representing me correctly, which is malpractice!!! I need help to defend and proceed against this giant monster!!
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28 Oct, 2022 by Karen thompson
Looking for my uncle
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16 Jul, 2022 by Sally roof
02 Oct, 2023 by Alan klenetsky
Axelrod and associates have railroaded me, they should’ve seen me in a small claims court for me to receive my money back but because they knew I would win that suit they sued me for more money to bring it to a different court a court where they are probably well known and I’m a nobody! I have proof that Axelrod has lied to me and I have paper proof of that. They hired a lawyer, ballad and watson to try to intimidate me with letters and letters and letters! I’ve been waiting months and months for the court to send me a court date to defend myself, and to receive my money back from someone that who has lied and deceived me during my whole case. Axelrod gave me back half of my money, I wonder why? Just a warning in my opinion do not use Axelrod and associates. They have deceived and lied to me many times, and was very unprofessional to say the least! In my opinion, I would never use this law firm again, unless you want to lose money with no representation, or maybe a little, but not $5000 worth that’s for sure he cost me nothing but heartache and depression, and I have papers to show that he lied to me!!!! i’m looking for anyone that could help me bring this case to justice and Mr. Axelrod and associates! I have no money I had to go to a public defender because he did not return the funds for not representing me correctly, which is malpractice!!! I need help to defend and proceed against this giant monster!!
Read more
28 Oct, 2022 by Karen thompson
Looking for my uncle
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16 Jul, 2022 by Sally roof
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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.
