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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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02 Oct, 2024 by Chad tippett
I’m very happy with Josh and his staff. They were excellent to work with. Josh took my case to trial and won. I walked away free and clear. If you got your self in a bind this is the place to go!
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26 Sep, 2018 by Maria
Mr. Linares handles my DUI case in an excellent matter. Him and his group were always there to answer any questions, explain what was happening with my case and were super efficient. When i was expecting the worst, he work hard to get my charge drop to a less severe one, the DUI would have affected my future tremendously. Thanks to him and his group my case only lasted a few months and less than a year later it's been all resolved. Great attorney and group!
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01 Mar, 2018 by Marlon m
I consider Mr. Linares a very good person with principleas and a sense of humanity. He understand very well about laws and fear regulations that for me was a life saver on that time. Thank you Dr. Linares for your help.
Marlon M
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08 Feb, 2018 by Jose
Mr. Linares has been nothing but good to me. Helping me and working hard on my case. This is the second case that he has helped my family out with. My case was just lowered to a reckless driving. A DUI would have ruined my career. But because of him working hard on my case everything worked out perfect. He's a hardworking man that has a strong group of individuals beside him. If I have anyone that needs a strong lawyer I would definitely send them his way. I am thankful for his desire to help people.
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02 Mar, 2022 by Jenny
From my personal experience, Kristen Rodger is an outstanding professional. She is a very detail-oriented, sharp, knowledgeable, and honest individual. Kristen Rodger went above and beyond in helping me navigate difficult legal negotiations. Because of her guidance, support, and legal advice I was able to get the positive outcome in my case. On a personal note, she is very tactful and sympathetic. I would strongly recommend her for any type of legal representation.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Better off with a public defender. She not defend you and will force to plea with the POS probation department.
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04 Nov, 2019 by Julie
Kristen was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She took so much time with me and never made me feel rushed. She is very thorough and fought very hard for me. I ended up with the best possible outcome for my case. Did I mention she gives her cell number to clients and you can text her almost any time?
I highly recommend and was beyond pleasantly surprised. Very fairly priced and went above and beyond for me. Although I hope to never need her services again (ha!), I wouldn’t hesitate to hire Kristen!
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01 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired him for a child support case. He never communicated with me. I never receive updates on my case or communication on what steps to take next. He never advised me when I had to go to court. He never went to court with me. He always told me to go to court by myself and to just say whatever I could to the judge. He can be great for criminal defense but he is not a good representative for fathers in family cases.
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20 May, 2021 by Skf
I'll keep it professional. My experience and opinion of Michael Schneider is not positive, admirable, or favorable in the least. He was retained to file a dismissal, he refused, and cut off contact with me until it was optimal for himself.
My case! after being reviewed at cost by no less than Seven Attorneys has been described as a Civil case at best...Gone rouge...Bartered...and allowed to be charged/classified as two Felonies....One of the Attorneys is still under retainer after 16 years. We may make Law history thanks to Mr Schneider...I'll keep it at that..Any questions ? Find yourself welcomed to contact me.
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21 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I consulted and hired M. Schneider. He handle my trial as if was defending him self. It was a very stressful time in my life. But he help me true. He worked hard to prepare for the best possible outcome. Thank you so much Micheal
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19 Aug, 2017 by Elizabeth
My son hired attorney Lucarelli for his legal matters. I was amazed at the care and concern this attorney showed my son. His knowledge and expertise were also second to none. For any serious legal matter, I would highly recommend this attorney. He is a genuine man who will work hard for you. How many other attorneys give out their cell phone number and tell you to call anytime. Mr. Lucarelli is a hero.
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22 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Lucarelli after I was stopped for a driving infraction that landed me in jail.
I paid a retainer hoping that a resolution to this offense would happen with good to fair results. I spoke to this attorney from jail and he assured me that I was in good hands. After spending quit a bit of time in jail and speaking to the prosecutor about my case personly , I feel that more could have and should have been done to help me. I was not satisfied with my council's attention to detail or the general legal guidence I recevied. Im sure this attorney is a good one but in my particular case I feel my representation legally speaking was lackluster. This is my experence and I felt it my oblagation to share my experence.
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30 Jan, 2015 by Anthony
I have used Mr Lucarelli legal services on a couple of occasions and I was pleased to find an attorney who really cares about me. He spent the time to get to know me and understand my issues. I think the difference between a good lawyer and a great lawyer is how much the lawyer truly cares about his client. I can say without reservation attorney Lucarelli treated me like family.
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20 Nov, 2022 by Fatih kekevi
He Had done nothing but took my money. He did not even bother to attend some court events. He had me convicted of the crimes I haven't even commited. I have been convicted and served time in jail for false misdemeanor charges. He was very unprofessional and unresponsive. Beware!
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12 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I am so very appreciative for the time and attention given to me by Attorney Mark Youngblood.
His patience and care made this a much less terrifying experience. I was completely naive and Mark always took the time to thoroughly answer my questions. He clearly presented options as they unfolded and let my specific needs shape the way in which he handled the case. Ultimately, his advice, patience, experience, and hard work, opened favorable possibilities.
I am so extremely pleased, with the outcome of my case. I feel most fortunate is my lawyer.
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03 Sep, 2013 by Gavin
Marc is highly skilled at balancing pragmatic approaches while still vigorously pursuing aggressive outcomes. I have worked with many more expensive attorneys, but never one so focused on his clients' best outcome. His is not a style of bluster and posturing. He knew our case thoroughly and waited patiently for opportune moments to champion his well conceived strategies. Too notch - in every way. I felt like he was in my corner from beginning to end. He seemed to feel the ups and inevitable downs (almost) as keenly as I did. Youngblood is a huge asset for anyone contending with the Florida legal system.
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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
16 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth
02 Aug, 2024 by Evens dossou
13 Mar, 2024 by Alberto sosa-garcia
04 Sep, 2022 by Dorothy symanski
Had we stayed with him my innocent son would be serving 5 yrs w/10 yrs probation. He was late for court twice both early trial calls so it wasn't like he was tied up in court elsewhere. Not prepared, canceled numerous meetings, no objections to a witness being led , no counter offer on states offer. Thank God we went elsewhere from Musca law it took a new law firm 2 days to get a plea deal to keep our innocent son from going to jail . We had been with Musca 1 1/2 yrs. He just didn't seem to care. Except when more money was needed. Very dry think twice is my opinion.
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03 Jan, 2018 by Amanda
Lee hollander is the best attorney. He went above and beyond for me and my family so if you want an attorney that cares about your situation and will help hes the one!!!
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06 May, 2017 by Christa
I have been using Lee Hollander for any legal issues for almost 10 years, a total of 3 cases. The first case, he got thrown out the day I went to 24-Hour Court for a VOP. The second case was a habitual felony case and he got me probation, and even after a violation, I was out of jail at my first court date, with just a year of extra probation, that later he terminated for me anyway. The third case was for my family member, and he had her felony dropped to a misdemeanor and all she had to do was 10 classes, once a week. He's honest, I would go so far as to say blunt; some people may not be used to that. He does NOT sugarcoat things, but who wants a bull-****ter? He is excellent at what he does, he's been on both sides, and he loves it.
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29 Apr, 2017 by George
Christina Merritt provided an exceptonal amount of professionalism and expertise while handling my case which clearly demonstrates her willingness to go above and beyond to get the job done and an end result everyone is satisfied with.
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29 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Heard she was an awful attorney AFTER I hired her. Did nothing to help me. Find someone who will keep in touch with you and not string you along or lie to you or ignore you. DO NOT HIRE HER.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Frank
Mrs. Merritt was on time and early, walked me through every process I had to go through and even after the last court date she kept in touch with me to make sure that I was getting all my probation things done. By far the best attorney in Naples and Fort Myers.
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11 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Rinard was the very best attorney I could have hired to represent me. I was so fortunate to have him recommended to me. I was told that he was the best and he was! He was always willing to meet and discuss my case, questions, or concerns. He provided excellent professional advice and persuasively represented me in court. In addition, his team was always warm and considerate when dealing with me during a very stressful and difficult time in my life. I am so thankful he represented me! I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for a wonderful attorney.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
My experience with Marquin was positive from the first moment we contacted Ringsmuth, Day and O'Halloran. Marquin was attentive, meticulous, and accommodating throughout a very difficult time. He was with me every step of the way and always responded quickly and effectively with any questions or issues as they arose. I highly recommend Marquin Rinard.
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20 Dec, 2013 by Paul
He; along with his firm Musca Law; claim "vigorous" defense in their ads and charge a minimum $2000 retainer. I had a minor traffic case that he plead out almost immediately (less than a week) for me to receive 1 year of mail-in probation. I later found-out from my new lawyer....as well as from several consultations from other lawyers that the deal I took was horrible based on the charges.....and the only explanation any of them could give me is that he clearly didn't put any time or true effort into my defense. I thought for the sizeable amount I spent paying for him I'd receive better effort on his part. I paid several thousand dollars for a deal I could have worked-out for free myself.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Don
I was incarcerated and DCF was attempting to take my child away if I did not comply with a ridiculous case plan. My criminal charges were violent but my children were in no way connected to those allegations. Upon release from custody i was awarded full custody of my daughter did to Ms Brennans excellent job at trial(while I'm wearing an orange jumpsuit). She won almost every objection and ultimately won my trial beating the all powerful DCF. She is very knowledgeable and fought hard for me. Highly recommend.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Beverly Brennan was hired by me in March of 2015 for a parenting plan agreement. I paid the retainer amount requested and signed the agreement which stated the hourly fee as well as the fact that I would receive monthly billing statements. Over a year went by throughout the case from start to finish and I expressed to Mrs. Brennan the need to keep costs low during our initial conversation as I do not have much. Not receiving monthly statements of my account as outlined in her agreement gave me the impression that my retainer was still being used. When the case was successfully settled, I received a whopping invoice for over three times the amount of the original retainer without any prior disclosure or monthly billing statement (which was outlined as common practice in her agreement). When I emailed her regarding my concern, my email went ignored and a month later, I had received a bill from a collections company for the total amount. Beware of this attorney as she had no problem escalating charges without my interest in mind and secretly kept the accruing amount to herself despite what her retainer agreement states otherwise. If a legal document states that I should expect monthly billing statements (as my other attorneys have done in the past), then when I am not receiving them, I naturally assume that the retainer amount was sufficient. I am now contacting the Florida Bar Association and filing a formal complaint as I have found discrepencies on her invoice for billed phone time in excess of what my phone records show. Makes me wonder about the emails as well as she has billed me for emails sent on dates that cannot be validated through documentation. One month she claims she emailed me a couple of times ($120 worth) and I have only one email from her for that month that states she was on vacation. Sad part is that now I am stuck with an absorbant bill in collections and am left to the assistance of only the Florida Bar Association.
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17 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
From her staff to the attorney they are all wonderful. Mrs.Brennan is always available to answer my questions. Very dedicated to ger job, very understanding and always willing to help. I highly recomend her!
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12 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
He will give you postive advice, charge a retainer, then no results. . Bills make NO sense. This attorney will advise you of a strategy then NEVER follow up on his plan. He is not aggressive. Will NOT Zealously defend you and is interested only in how much money he can charge you. He wont fight for you, He will go into court completly un prepared, he will say nothing when he should and he will say to you that judge is having a bad day is better be quiet then come out with cute little sayings like "they never put a glove on you". He should NOT be practicing law. . This person gave me some pretty strong advice, then again nothing done but poor results His billings and coorespondence all end with the closure of "please contact us if you have any questions" He WILL NOT return phone calls especially when he knows they could involve any constructive confrontation or direct questions regarding failed execution of HIS plans for defense. He is a real joke for an attorney and he has taken $7000.00 of my money and given me almost Nothing in return a very little money in alimony and 400 on child support from a dad make more than 10000 a month, be smart Avoid this person and look for better lawyer he is the worst please don't do it or you will regret your decision like me, on the road no money and a huge Bill to Holloway
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28 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
I had a problem with a real estate deal. The buyer tried to back out of the contract and would not agree that I was allowed to keep the deposit. Mr. Holloway immediately filed a lawsuit and got a very good settlement for me. I was very impressed with how good he was at negotiating. I would hire John Holloway again and would recommend him very highly to everyone.
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29 Jan, 2010 by Timothy geraldo
Mr. Holloway has always taken the time to thoroughly explain each step of the process, and also caution what possible negative outcome or delay might arise. I felt well informed and prepared for a variety of responses from the opposing party, and was assured there was a plan of action waiting for each of them. He listened carefully to my concerns or apprehensions, and if further research was needed to give me an answer, it was usually handled immediately or within the same day.
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05 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
She is rude and contradicts herself constantly. She's not a criminal attorney by any means!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I contacted Ms Stevins from a referral from another attorney regarding an ongoing issue I am having. Her receptionist was very nice. Ms Stevins, however, could not take the time to listen to my legal issue and basically acted as if I was wasting her time.
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25 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Takes time to explain everything. Makes sure that paperwork is done on time and keeps you posted on how your case is progressing. Office is very friendly and comfortable.
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22 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Bazaz lied to me he took money to start my case and open it up we had a plan in place and the first plan didn't work and he refused to answer my emails or my phone calls after that plan did not work so we can move on to the next plan which was to go to court. Never explain why he never said anything about stopping my case he just stopped talking to me that is terrible way run a law firm to take my money and then never respond to me again. He should be taken off the Bar Association
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29 Dec, 2015 by Ron
Sal is a great attorney who explains the process clearly and doesn't promise anything. However, through his expertise and knowledge of the law he is sure to fight your case and answer any questions at any time of day. Both my cases were dismissed. He is well known throughout Southwest Florida.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Maria de leon
Ruth is an amazing lawyer who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and goes above and beyond for her clients. She worked long after hours to ensure she settled my case. I am truly grateful for her!
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03 Aug, 2024 by Peguy
I hired her to handle my car accident case in 2019. In January 2021 due to the Covid situation I had to move from Florida to another state. I called and told her about the moving, the new address but same phone number. Guess what. she never called me , never responded my calls and texts no communications at all. Each time I called her office I left her messages said I wanted to know about my case. She never got back to me. In July Last year I went to Florida to talk her about the office closed always. Finally, I used another phone number and called her she answered because she didn’t know if it was me.
She told me the insurance made her an Ofer if she could accept it or fight for more. I told to her just take it . because I don’t want to deal with her she not professional ,tired of her that’s why . She said ok she will take it ! Since that day she never answered my calls and texts. We are going to make a complaint against her next week. I will give you an update guys.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I strongly advise against hiring Ruth D Orange as your lawyer.
I engaged her services for my divorce and auto accident, both occurring within a month of each other in the summer of 2021. Regrettably, her performance was severely lacking. Despite initial impressions, she failed to fulfill her duties, resulting in significant financial losses on my part.
Communication was a major issue; she frequently ignored my attempts to contact her, and I even came close to missing court dates because of her lack of responsiveness. In the case of my auto accident, she strung me along for three years, falsely claiming that my case was pending while never actually filing a lawsuit despite my injuries.
Despite lodging complaints with the Florida Bar, no meaningful action has been taken. It's concerning to see someone like her continue to practice law without accountability.
I've spoken with other individuals who have had similar experiences with her, further confirming my concerns. Despite my efforts to seek redress, I've been unable to find resolution due to the perceived lack of seriousness by the Florida Bar.
Please, for your own sake, seek legal representation elsewhere. Ruth D Orange's behavior, including making false statements and neglecting her duties, is unacceptable.
Exercise caution and explore other options for legal assistance.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I was going through a dependency case with my attorney and my child the attorney that was given was Aldo Ruccio he failed to comply with procedures follow rules and he failed me and my family he used our Paint and our broken family to financially gain $10,000 from the government I filed a petition against his motion to the court requesting the money and it wasn’t done properly so nothing ever occurred and he got paid but this is just the beginning if he’s done you wrongContact me at 239-398-4339 I have something in the works
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09 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
He was court ordered to be my underaged daughter's attorney. She died. He charged money to learn my daughter died. It is actually on the bill saying the cost to learn this. Disgusting!
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24 Feb, 2022 by Patrick
In October 2019 I was falsely accused of a crime that never occurred. In October 2021 I was falsely convicted of that “crime“ due to the abhorrent representation of Mark Alderuccio.
This man sat on every piece of information I gave him. Every piece of exculpatory evidence, every defense strategy, and let every single lie told about me at the trial go unchallenged.
The sheriff falsified the police report from top to bottom, vilifying me and impugning my character in every way imaginable, asserting that I confessed to this woman’s accusations.
I wanted to have a jury trial, but Mr. Alderuccio was concerned that they may believe the lies that were being told about me. Instead…
“You couldn’t have a better judge for a bench trial“ he said to me. Giving me example after example about just how fair minded this judge was, explaining how he’s worked with him since the 90’s — KNOWING full well that “burden of proof“ and “reasonable doubt” don’t even factor in at a bench trial, it all comes down to whoever the judge wants believe.
In this case an immigrant from Honduras who “hardly speaks any English“ or a man who admitted to angrily yelling at her for disturbingly him. Who sounds more likable already?
I didn’t know any better, I trusted him, I agreed. I couldn’t have known that I’d just hung myself.
The sheriff perjured himself on the stand by repeating what he said in the report, that I had admitted to what I was being accused of.
Instead of rebutting the sheriffs lie by submitting my 911 call incident detail report which states:
1. “Patrick Fitzgerald… Someone made a false police report about him and he wants to file a report about the report”
Mr. Alderuccio Left me to spring it on the judge minutes before the end of the trial, at which point he cried out to the prosecution “Now how am I supposed to believe that?”
I was told to return to my seat. I asked Mr. Alderuccio If he submitted that 911 detail report (proving that what I just said on the stand was the true) and he said excitedly “I didn’t have to because you just told him!”
As though ANY judge would consider the word of an accused criminal over an official document.
The most critical piece of information that needed to be communicated to that judge was the fact that I have denied that anything even happened from the beginning. Mark Alderuccio had proof of that and sat on it.
Making matters worse, he made two incriminating motions to dismiss. Arguing that because the sheriff had to wake me, I couldn’t have been aware of a crime, so the case should be dismissed.
His voice was cracking both times, he didn’t believe the words coming out of his mouth, and for good reason. Without challenging the judges believe that a crime had occurred, he was arguing in effect that I had committed the crime, forgot about after the fact, and that’s why the charges should be dismissed.
Thanks to Mr. Alderuccio, the judge had no other option but to conclude that everything he already believed to be true, was indeed true and convicted me.
I saw Mark Alderuccio a week later in his office to ask if there was still time to appeal, something he never even told me was an option.
After defending the prosecution and judge as having gone into the trial with an open mind, I attempted to ask a question about the trial to which he angrily cut me off, exclaiming “You were convicted! you can’t second-guess every little thing after the fact!“
Every “little” thing.
I have no doubt that man fully expected me to be carted off to jail that day to have nothing more to do with me as he has treated me with utter contempt ever since.
These are just a scant few examples, the list goes on and on and on.
How many other peoples lives has this man ruined, and how many more will he?
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
The guy is one of the rudest people I have ever interacted with in life. His demeanor is atrocious. He is insulting, rude, and overall just a very unpleasant person to talk with. I would go elsewhere, to be honest, anywhere else.
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18 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I had an appointment with him at 9:30. The lady at the reception had no clue and she said he wasn’t there that she was going to call him. I waited and she said he wasn’t answering so I left and said if he was going to be late I didn’t want to use him.
He then left me a voicemail that he was 3 minutes late and I guess it was too much for me and good luck finding another lawyer. How unprofessional and rude
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29 Oct, 2021 by Vincent
What’s he point in asking a would be client to Bring All your evidence.
He didn’t want to look at anything.
What a F**king waist of time.
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27 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
"Hello... Anybody home?" Was constantly going through my mind when setting across the desk from her. Those exact words actually came out of the judges mouth in the court room! She seemed to be on the edge of consciousness every time I laid eyes on her... Medically induced? I though so... either way I would not recommend to my worst enemy! I would have replaced her but the case was very weak and I though it would eventually be thrown out.
I received ABSOLUTELY no help from Beller in the court room, did my best to be patient and ask my "lawyer" to nip this BS in the but with no help or effort on her part. Eventually the Judge became annoyed with the prosecutors inability to produce his "star witness" for the 3rd hearing in a row so I spoke up and asked about my right to a speedy trial (which was shot down) and asked for to case to be thrown out based on the lack of real evidence / witnesses (which was shot down). Court date was postponed AGAIN! Prosecutor offered an awesome plea bargain which I took out of sheer frustration and lack of confidence in the local legal system. All on a case that in my opinion should have never made it in front of a judge....
Thanks again Ms Georgette...
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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.
