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02 Jun, 2024 by Jayne ransing
23 Mar, 2024 by James
If you need legal help hire Superman and his team! Go team Cavanaugh and Cavanaugh!!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Maria
Mr Cavanaugh is reliable, kind, courteous, knowledgeable and very professional. He was always available to speak with me at any time to answer all my questions. I highly recommend Mr Cavanaugh and his Law Firm to anyone seeking the need of a honest Attorney.
M H.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Andy ramtahal
Attorney Fish was outstanding! She represented us very professionally and stayed in touch with us during the entire case. We would recommend her to anyone looking for a great attorney.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Nancy
Excellent and Professional since the first call,until ,I meet her in person , comunicacion always ! I will recommend 100% Thankyou so much ! I hope is more Professional out to there to help and work so Professional and friendly
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04 Jul, 2024 by Elbis
She was an amazing lawyer, she helped me so much with a traffic ticket I had, she was very knowledgeable and very detailed with my case. We were in touch multiple times about my case and when we went to court she had my back 100%. Very pleased with her work. Would totally recommend.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Cecy maldonado
He is an amazing lawyer, he works great in his field and even keeps in touch with his clients!
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17 May, 2024 by Indiana galvez
En el 2017 fue como un ángel caído del cielo que hizo mi defensa y ese angel fue el licenciado Grabiel Veliz hoy día nesecito nuevamente de su servicios y no dudaría en volverlo a contratar súper eficiente súper profesional súper dedicado a su labor para mí 1000% recomendando
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01 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I was charged with a gun charge by a convicted felon facing prison time. He was able to get me a deal I could not refuse in collier county where they don't play. I would recommend mr.veliz to anyone who needs a lawyer he works hard and doesn't give up on his clients.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Frederick
I am happy with the job Mr. Turner did. He was honest with me and overdelivered.
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09 Aug, 2020 by J
Thank you Ken, you are absolutely excellent. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Ken has integrity, patience, respectable self control and is diligent. His deliverance is respectful as he covers imperative facts professionally and tactfully. Ken’s communication skills are incredibly valuable as well as his knowledge and ability to apply both, fairly.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Barbara
For only a phone consultation, Mr. Turner freely provided relevant insights and options to my specifics that would matter to my best interest. Though my fingers are crossed that I don't need to be in his local area, I am convinced he would do well advocating for the best possible outcome for me if I'm required to be there. Without hesitation he has my full confidence to successfully have my back. Mr. Turner, thank you for your time and great sense of direction. Barbara in N. Florida
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06 Dec, 2023 by Cary
No nonsense got the job for me , no price gouging very readonable.ive been with through a dui case and Robert was with me through every step of the way.i would recommend this attorny to anyone for a defense attorney.very personable and although I was out of state due to medical reasons Robert handled court proceedings for me.always available when I needed him answering promptly when requesting information.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Michael
I am in the process of studying aviation with the hopes of becoming a commercial pilot. I engaged with Mr.Hanaford when the FAA questioned my criminal background. Mr.Hanaford immediately answered my calls after hours and produced results in well under 24 hours. I have much more confidence in my future and look forward to a promising career in aviation. In addition I will be trusting Hanaford Law with any/all criminal cases moving into the future. Thank you!
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12 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I inquired about Robert's free 30 minute consultation for my DUI, in which, he responded immediately. He called me the following day and after explaining my situation he provided all the information I needed to begin my process for my license reinstatement. He also directed me with additional resources that will help with my process in getting my drivers license back.
He is very informative and proactive in advising steps to take. I highly recommend this lawyer.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Joe
Derek Verderamo is the best criminal lawyer in Naples Florida. He is a real fighter at the courtroom.
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17 Mar, 2022 by Rob
I arrived at court early one day and listened to the judge, the prosecutor and defendant all talking about the attorney I hired named Derek Verderamo. Each of the three spoke about Derek in glowing terms and I could see that he is held in high esteem.
And this is very important information to start with. We are all human. Do the judge and prosecutor you have even like your attorney? How would you ever know? Derek has great working relations with the people who hold your future in their hands.
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10 Nov, 2020 by Mario
Mr. Verderamo is a professional and dedicated attorney. He displays passion and commitment to his clients and his cases referring to my own personal experience.
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17 Oct, 2019 by Nicole
Rebecca and musca law are some of the best attorneys I have ever had the privilege to work with. Rebecca is really devoted to the best possible outcomes for her clients. She took the time to explain everything to me all through put my case, ensured that no stone was left unturned, and kept in constant communication with me through put the whole process. I never had to question what she was doing or how far along we were or what the next steps were because rebecca made sure I was in the know and felt comfortable with everything. On top of all of that WE WON! I will always recommend Rebecca and musca law to everyone I know as they are the best.
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29 May, 2018 by Melissa
I had alot going on April 5th, 2018. I just got news that my disabled aunt was diagnosed with cancer. I went out to vent a bit ,and had some drinks. I lost track of my speed and was pulled over for my 2nd DUI. My license was immediately taken away, and a condition of my bond was a restriction that I could not leave the county. This was a problem because I was the caretaker for my aunt and was responsible for taking her to her doctor appointments and Cancer Specialist.. My DMV hearing was on May 24th 2018 and I was FACING 18 MONTHS SUSPENSION of my driving privileges. Attorney Rebecca Sonalia represented me on the DMV portion of the case. On the day of the hearing, Rebecca called me with John Musca on the line to inform me they had won my DMV case! I dropped to the floor crying! Words cannot express how much they care, and all the hard work they have put into my case. They truly went out of their way for me. Now, I can take my aunt to the Cancer Specialist without worries or any issues, and it’s all because of them!! My heart and gratitude goes out to John Musca and his team for all their efforts!. This whole ordeal has been a roller coaster for me, and they have been by my side through it all! God Bless you for all you have done for me. THANK YOU ALL SO VERY, VERY MUCH, FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!!!!
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03 May, 2018 by Joyce
I knew Rebecca was good from the start. She is the kind of lawyer who dots her I and crosses her T. She had a strategy, using logic and intuition. She got to the truth on what happened that fateful night when I was stopped by the police. I was traumatized. This reversal of the suspension goes a long way in helping me heal. Thanks Rebecca Sonalia. Joyce
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12 Sep, 2024 by Natalia
I don’t have enough words to express how grateful I am with Mr. Galasso and his team. After 3 years of hard times and stress where I experienced all kind of feelings, Mr. Galasso was always there for support and encouragement and we finally got what we were fighting for. Thank you Mr. Galasso and Juanita for returning me the piece of mind that I had lost
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15 Feb, 2024 by Jen
I can’t really express how thankful I am for him, I honestly feel like he is a blessing. I was really stressed out about my case but he always made me feel at ease. I really admire him and his staff. He is an amazing lawyer, and I don’t know how my life would’ve turned out if I didn’t have him as my lawyer. He is the best!!
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27 Jan, 2024 by Marlene
Mr. Galasso took my husbands case for a battery charge felony. His case was dismissed prior to returning to court. It was nice that he was there for my husband and I all the way! He is a Miracle Worker.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Sharon
After our initial consultation with Justin Caldarone, we knew that we had hired the best lawyer in Naples to represent our daughter's case.
Mr. Caldarone was professional, extremely knowledgeable, and always responsive and sensitive to our concerns.
Throughout the case Mr. Caldarone was very reassuring and personable as he guided our family through a very stressful case. He always made sure that he explained the process thoroughly and answered all of our questions in a manner that we understood and felt comfortable with, which made going through this case with our daughter a lot more calming.
I cannot express how grateful we are for meeting Justin. He is not only an absolutely great lawyer, but he is certainly a very caring human being. After getting the state to drop the charges and then having her record expunged, he took the time to give our daughter guidance so she could understand the implications of her actions going forward in life.
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19 Jan, 2023 by Gilberto
Tengo que decir...Justin es un abogado super profesional y una persona increíble para mi es el mejor,muchas gracias por reprecentarme .
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05 Aug, 2022 by Jon
Unbelievable attorney and after this experience I can say an incredible friend as well. Justin saved my life literally from a felony charge that I knew from the bottom of my heart I was innocent for and should not have been arrested for. He was professional, kept me in the loop, explained everything he was doing and kept me up to date with the progression of my case, and in a matter of days was able to get the state to drop the charges against me. This man is literally doing gods work, and treated me like a friend and not a client. Words can’t explain how grateful I am to have met Justin and had him represent me from start to finish ultimately proving my innocence. I couldn’t have asked for a better man to retain for my case. Thank you one million times over and god bless you Justin. If you need an attorney you seriously don’t need to look further than Justin.
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16 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
While visiting Naples I was arrested for a ridiculous charge of drunk and disorderly because I questioned the establishment regarding my bill that I didn't believe was correct. I met with Landon and discussed the case. I immediately hired him and he was able to get a copy of the security video from the establishment and show to the Judge and Prosecutor that the Officer was lying in his report. The Judge immediately dismissed the case. I HIGHLY recommend Landon to anyone in need of representation, period. He is a top notch attorney and his paralegal, Janet, was great.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I was arrested for possession of marijuana and hired Mr. Miller to represent me. We went for a hearing cause the cops had no reason to approach me sitting in my car in my hotel parking lot. The Judge agreed and my case was thrown out. Thank you Landon!!!
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19 Oct, 2016 by Kenneth keefe
In mid-July of this year, I received a DUI in Collier County, the Bail Bondsman recommended that I contact Landon Miller. I called his office the next day, and the staff was VERY professional, took all of my information, and Landon Miller called me back, and after a brief conversation, I hired him as my attorney. Throughout the next couple of weeks I needed to contact the office for paperwork, faxing, emailing and the staff was above and beyond helpful. Landon was able to get ALL the charges dropped by using his skills and knowledge of the law. I would HIGHLY recommend Landon Miller for your legal matters.
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31 May, 2023 by Ginger
Best lawyer! I was a witness for the defense and overheard one of the prosecutors walk by the witness for the prosecution and told him that he is going to lose. "Cassasa wins everytime" is the exact quote. I was confident, and we won our jury trial.
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28 Mar, 2023 by Guy
I met Mark Casassa 15-20 years ago as have regularly and confidently referred my clients to him for representation in Naples and Fort Myers. His reputation and performance in Court are way above average and he cares about the results for his clients.
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07 Feb, 2017 by Luis
Mr Mark Casassa and his assistant Julie are both very very professional. They both really took care of me. I was going to jail but Mark handled my case and made sure I got the minimum sentence and did NOT go to jail.
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27 Mar, 2022 by Natalie
Thomas Gorman helped me on a case from long ago. He was very helpful, efficient, and knowledgeable and went out of his way for me and really bent over backwards to help. I highly recommend him. He is a good lawyer and a good person.
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30 Sep, 2020 by Robert
I got a ticket in Naples, FL, Collier County, and was looking for a lawyer to get my ticket dismissed. Talked to about half dozen lawyers, from ones that were sarcastic to ones that just wanted your money, to do what I could myself. I finally got in touch with the law office of Michael R. Gorman, who was truly a good person and a knowledgeable lawyer. He explained to me that it is a waste of money to hire a lawyer because in Collier County the chances of dismissing a ticket are extremely slim. Furthermore he walked me step by step to what I need to do to avoid points and insurance price increase. Mr. Gorman could have taken my money and did all of that but he did not, instead he looked out for me. I highly recommend the law office of Michael R. Gorman.
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01 Jun, 2019 by Zhang
I really appreciate Mr. Gorman's help with my case. I was trapped in a foreign county because of an outgoing warrant to me in Florida. Thanks to Mr. Gorman's help, he dealt with this case within a month with his experience and warm-hearted. My warrant was canceled and all the records were cleared. His hard-working help me coming back to the USA successful.
He would always reply to my e-mail or any phone call very soon, gave me all the answer to my concern. He analyzed for me about the strategy he would apply on my case, and he told me he used to deal with some similar case successfully, which inspired me and help me pass through that hard time. Thanks to Mr. Gorman, I can still continue my career in America to chase my American dream.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Susan
Mr Russo was absolutely incredible . He was very professional, thoughtful, empathetic, trustworthy, and acted quickly, speeding up the process to evict a hostile tenant that I perceived a real threat to my safety and livelihood. I had living on my property. I met with him, signed the documents,he personally delivered the paperwork the very same day to the sheriffs department, and 12 days later the tenant was evicted
WOW ! I would highly recommend him and I don’t think I would ever use another attorney to handle my
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27 Jul, 2023 by John
I can't say enough good about Dominick. He has handled many cases for me. Always profession. Down to earth. No surprise bills.
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03 Feb, 2022 by David
Very happy with the eviction process
Everything went as good as I could ask.
Having Dominick on the landlords side is a great piece of mind.
Will hope not to use again but will next late payment.
Thanks again
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27 Oct, 2021 by Martha meza
Before speaking to Timothy I was so worried about my court date, felt like I was at rock bottom. His assertion & tone gave me so much tranquility. Even better was when he texted me my charges were dropped ! Amazing service. Would 100% recommend.
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30 Jan, 2019 by Aramis
I had a major speeding violation in addition to several other speeding tickets in near past and was helpless, until I hired him to defend me against State of Florida, He is the best lawyer I ever had, He listens to you and understands your case and situation, he cares about his client like I was his own friend or family member . He walked me through the process and explained to me different situations that I might end up having but he said that he will do his best to help me resolve this issue, and resolving he did. make the long story short, after second hearing in front of a second judge in collier county , my whole case was tossed out as if I never had this violation.I strongly recommend this lawyer . Don't look elsewhere for a lawyer. Thank you Mr. Moffitt.
Aramis S.
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16 May, 2011 by Anonymous
The title says it all. Hire this attorney.
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08 Jun, 2023 by Tawa halp
This guy is hands down the kindest person and being a Lawyer is not easy. Even if my case is not taken it’s a pleasure to know Mr. Freeman.
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02 Oct, 2022 by Richard novotny
28 Jan, 2019 by Joe charde
28 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
highly recommend Attorney Keith Konkle for his exceptional legal expertise and client service. He is highly responsive, professional, and thorough in his approach. He went above and beyond to ensure that my case was resolved in the best possible way. Thank you!
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27 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Keith Konkle to anyone in need of a personal injury lawyer. He is professional, knowledgeable, and truly cares about his clients. Thank you, Keith, for all of your hard work and help!
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14 Dec, 2020 by Joel
I had a wonderful experiencing in procuring the
legal aid of Mike Carr , and Dominic Russo , as my
lawyers.
For an injunction issue I was battling out in court .
With out their help , professional assistance and deep
Knowledge concerning injunctions I don’t believe
I would of come out with the victory . I believe
That if it was not for Mike Carr , and Dominic Russo ,
My opponent would of walked away in triumph
Throwing me under the bus with a perjurious
testimony and false accusations.
Thank God , for Mike Carr , and his exemplary service.
He’s the guy to call when you run into a problem that
has the potential of turning your life upside down and
Ruining your future .
Sincerely and in all honesty ,
Joel Dejesus
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09 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Carr (Former Collier Judge) because he was the only defense attorney with the adequate experience and willingness to handle my unique case. He and his associate Mr. Dominick Russo represented me in a Felony allegation case, where I was the defendant against a Miami Circuit Judge as the victim. The original felony charge was successfully reduced to a misdemeanor due to their precise execution of a strategy with superior knowledgeable foresight, vast wisdom, and passionate, skillful aggression. The attorney previous to them was unable to achieve anything close to a misdemeanor resolution. I would highly recommend these attorneys for complex, high profile cases.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Nelson
Not only as an immigration attorney she did an splendid performance, but also as a heart felt human being, she went beyond and above in my case, was very professional and will like to highly recommend her to anyone going through an immigration process.
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15 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Very professional diligent hard-working proficient attorney, he came in my case as fifth attorney and got it done the state ended up dropping the case. What more can you say.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Manny
Very helpful! Attorney Jillian Yanes knows what she is doing and she really cares about her clients. She helped me with 3 issues. An immigration issue, property issue and a criminal issue my friend had. Attorney Yanes is easy to get a hold of, always returns calls promptly, knows the law and how to help. She is the first honest attorney I have ever met.
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13 Jul, 2017 by John
I was pulled over for a seatbelt violation. I gave the officer my valid Florida license issued to me a month prior. Three Naples cop cars took 45 minutes to write me 3 tickets - driving with a suspended license, using a license from another state while my Florida license is suspended, and a seatbelt violation. They actually wrote the tickets with my Texas license info which apparently they figured was suspended, though I gave them my valid Florida license, which they kept. I was issued another valid Florida license a day later at the DMV after disclosing what happened.
I have used Avvo before and it has been magnificent. This time however, I met with six of the top rated criminal defenders in Naples. If I actually got to meet with them and not a subordinate: at most, they asked a few questions and focused on highlighting the problems I faced followed by high demands for retainer. Of the six I met with, only one was actually going to take the case himself.
I was close to spending way too much for way too little, but got a letter from Denise in the mail urging me to call her. When I did, she personably legitimized my innocence when I told her my situation and was the first to give me confidence in the approach to my case then gave me the most reasonable quote of anyone. When I met with her the next morning, she was far sharper and more honest than any other attorney and asked questions that no one else did. We established a great approach and she highlighted why it will most likely be dismissed, a far more honest response than any other attorney in town.
Two weeks later, at the arraignment this morning, everything was dismissed. I am honored to be her first AVVO review as I hope my experience warrants you to give her a call. Denise Michelle Tyler is legit, the smartest and most honest I met with in town and is building a practice that will be huge, so get her while you can. In a town filled with whales, this attorney is a shark.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Christopher m “increasemyt” lewis
Honorable law firm and they keep their word.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Scott charles
This lawyer helped me with my case and cleared all my concerns. Highly recommend!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Rc investment
27 Feb, 2024 by Andy beights (andy beights @ b8stek)
01 May, 2022 by Miley rodriguez
Michael Coleman knows what he’s doing. It’s been a pleasure to work with him and his team in the past.
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27 Jul, 2020 by Mark hindley
I met Sonia Diaz several years ago through the Leadership Collier Foundation. I recall being struck then by her poise and professionalism. Recently, I had an Employment Law issue come up, and was quick to reach out to her. She was precisely as I remembered - knowledge, responsive, and extremely helpful. Sonia is without question a subject matter expert in employment law; but her temperament and communication style make her easy to understand, work with, and admire. Hiring Sonia, and her firm, will be a wise decision for you!
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03 May, 2024 by Clarence smith
31 Mar, 2024 by Manuel castaneda
Gran abogado buen precio
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27 Mar, 2024 by Maria jimenez
17 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Keri Armpriester sets her self above her peers with her amazing professionalism, work ethic, dedication, and compassion. Keri is by far the best attorney I have ever had. The amazing job she did provided me a second chance in life.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Keri has been amazing. She helped my son more than I could ever imagine. She is the only attorney that would listen to what we had to say and explain what we didn’t understand. She went above and beyond.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Amanda
Thank you so much Keri For helping my son!
Keri not only cares about you as a person, she is ready to help defend you in any way possible that she can. she is definitely a great lawyer!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Anna ania
You can feel safe and confident with this company, it feels like your real family.
Thank you for everything, Family First Legal Group.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Kerry hughes
Whoever you are: GET A PRENUP AGREEMENT BEFORE YOU GET MARRIED. Everyone should have one. Do it while you are being reasonable and rational - and in LOVE of course! That way you won't feel like you are being taken advantage of if everything goes pear-shaped later. Alex Peterson did an excellent job of protecting my interests and answering all my questions. And yes... I'm still very, very, very Happily Married.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jess seitz
Terry Desalvo, Je. And Tonia Wilson was extremely dedicated to closing my case and getting everything I needed. Thank you making me feel at ease through such a troubling time .
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03 Oct, 2024 by Darlene egan
Efficient, attention to detail, professional, caring, with our best interest at heart. These are the words I use to describe Missy at Bryant Title/Bryant Law and how she handled our closings. We have had the pleasure of working with her twice in the past year and we were very pleased both times with our interaction. I would highly recommend Bryant Title/Bryant Law to anyone needing their services.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Angela rizzi
Brad and the staff at Bryant Title always do an amazing job for my customers and I was fortunate to have them do my own closing recently. They are always very thorough and accommodating. I had highly recommend them.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Nathan dyer
Very professional! Great Team Work!
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03 Mar, 2022 by John hough
24 Jan, 2022 by Greyzer a. rodriguez
This attorney does not care about your family and to resolve the case during a divorce, he will create unfair litigation and continue charging because that is all he cares about...money. I complaint to the Florida bar because he advised my former husband to disconnect the power during our divorce while I was living at the house with my children during a hot summer day. This man will not do what is right, he will use the law to attack you and will continue to take from his clients by extending litigation and not wanting to end cases, he will take your money and your children's money. Stay away, he has no morals and is very unethical.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Mark
Mr. Roth's office handled my situation very professionally and I got the desired results I needed. Very knowledgeable and and competent with excellent negotiation skills! I would highly recommend him regarding a civil matter.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Lidalia lago
04 Jan, 2023 by Alexander rojas
So much attention to detail so professional I wish someone had recommended her before, best investment in my immigration case!
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10 May, 2022 by Luz hernandez
03 Oct, 2024 by Julie nunez
Joshua Faett has helped my family on many fronts….he has always come through for us. If you need help you should call Joshua and the Faett Firm.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan venegas
I hired the Faett firm to help me with an issue where I was wrongly accused of being the aggressor when in fact I was the victim. Josh met with the state attorney multiple times and was eventually able to get the state to drop my charges. I really appreciate all of the Faett firms hard work.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Renee
f you are looking for an attorney who is honest and who will keep it real with you this is the attorney you need. I was facing an extremely complicated case and I was very scared. As soon as I met with Mr. Faett he did not sugarcoat anything and I appreciated his knowledge and experience. He is on point and knows the law. I'm so thankful for him and the outcome was amazing. Thank you Mr. Faett! I'm so grateful for having you defend me.
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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.
