Lawyers map
>27
experienced lawyers
Filter by
11 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I would recommend Atty. Keefe to anyone. He was willing to help, listen to my side and offer solutions. He was emphatic and down to earth. He truly helped me in a really tough time with such professionalism while treating me like a person. He defended me and was always a quick phone call away. If I need anything legally in the future, he will be my first call.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Ashleigh
If you are ever in of representation I highly recommend Chuck Keefe.
Chuck was wonderful to work with and exercised my rights as a civilian. The whole court process makes you feel guilty until proven innocent. Chuck was able to take the weight off my shoulders and make me feel like everything was being taken care of. Chuck and his team were able to prove that my rights were violated and all my charges were dropped.
I learned from this process that just because someone carries a badge doesn't mean they don't make mistakes and can't learn from those mistakes as well.
I believe everyone involved learned something from the ordeal and if it wasn't for Chuck and his team exercising law verses perception the result wouldn't have been the same.
Read more
21 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Chuck Keefe, no need to look elsewhere if you’re seeking; legal counsel, legal representation, a defense attorney, a professional with compassion, someone who is knowledgeable, someone who has and exhibits integrity, ethics and honesty and someone who is well established and highly respected within the legal community.
Attorney Chuck Keefe handled a serious legal situation for my son. Myself being the protective parent I scrutinized Chuck’s decisions, actions and behavior, throughout the entire process. I was able to experience ease, because of Chuck’s expertise and demeanor. Most importantly my son has benefited by having Chuck as his attorney, he now can move forward with his life without having lifelong legal consequences.
Lastly I think it’s important to say we found and hired attorney Chuck Keefe only after we had hired and experienced two awful legal representatives prior, who we terminated. Wish we would have had Chuck from the beginning he was and is The Right Choice!
Chuck and his staff are professionals!
Read more
25 May, 2023 by Blexany
Hands down the best he’s helped me with so much . Very thankful & very appreciative of him .
Read more
19 Oct, 2022 by Denise
I cannot Thank Justin Shepard Enough. My case was Long and Drawn Out because of Covid. Justin was on Top everytime. I was able to return to My Career as A Nurse that would have been destroyed.. My Biggest Thanks to Justin Shepard who was Amazing and I would definitely recommend him...Thanks Again Justin.
Read more
19 Feb, 2022 by Derek
Justin is an excellent attorney! He worked tirelessly on my behalf eventually getting my charges reduced. I owe him a great debt of gratitude. Justin would be my first choice should I ever need legal assistance again
Justin took an interest in understanding my background, my family situation and discussing the various case outcomes could be and fought for my best possible outcome. Attorney Shepherd, is a great negotiator.
Read more
08 Oct, 2021 by Paula
Eric got me out of a DUI about 5 years ago. I refused the breath test, so they had no accurate level of alcohol intake. (That’s your right as a NH citizen). He got me wreckless driving, which is a speeding fine essentially and I paid $500 to the court. AMAZING LAWYER!!!!
Read more
05 Mar, 2021 by Alex
I was charged with a dui and defective equipment. I refused the FST and blood test which comes with an automatic 180 day license suspension. I had a video of the encounter with the Hudson police. Eric helped me win my ALS hearing and keep my license. He then was able to get the prosecutor to drop the dui and I plead guilty to the defective equipment and paid a fine. I will recommend Eric to anyone that is in trouble. I hope I never need him again but if I do I know I'm in good hands.
Read more
19 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Eric is an excellent attorney, brilliant and tenacious. He worked tirelessly on my behalf eventually getting the DUI charge against me dropped; I owe him a great debt of gratitude. I was very happy with all the work and consideration he and his helpful and diligent assistant Cara put into my case. He was very fair about payment and was worth every dime. Eric would be my first choice should I ever need legal assistance again.
Read more
07 Nov, 2022 by Ed coleman
If I ever need legal assistance in New Hampshire again, my one and only call will be to Tim Bush. He was extremely professional and empathetic. He made you feel like he really was in it with you! I could not have asked for a better outcome and I consider myself lucky, lucky because Tim Bush was recommended to me.
Read more
15 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I was arrested for a DUI, Disobeyeing a police officer and later charged with unlawful passing of a school bus, criminal threatening, and disorderly conduct. Mr. Bush got the DUI down to a reckless op violation, and only 1 misdemeanor.
Read more
19 Sep, 2018 by Shannon
I reached out to Tim Bush when my son was in trouble, facing felonious charges. Attorney Bush sat with us and listened to my son’s circumstances, taking the time required to listen to everything my son had to say. Attorney Bush told my son what his plan of action was and even spent some time to speak with him about making good decisions as a young man. Attorney Bush is very professional, will fight to get you the best result and genuinely cares about his clients. I would highly recommend Attorney Bush and am very grateful for all he did for my son.
Read more
01 May, 2018 by Brenna
Atorney Snow approached my case with integrity and care. He complied the necessary information and documents quickly and accurately. He handled himself with authority and poise in the courtroom. His wise counsel and effective representation helped to secure a win for me in a very complex and volatile divorce case. I am forever grateful for his help, and I highly recommend Attorney Snow.
Read more
21 Mar, 2018 by Peter
I have known and worked with Brian both as a colleague and as a client overprobably 20 years or,ore. He is absolutely at the top of his profession and has my highest recommendation.
Read more
10 Sep, 2015 by Janet
I have been acquainted with attorney Brian Snow for 15+ years. He became my lawyer when I was running a business. He not only improved my contracts by adding necessary clauses and making them air tight, he was also there for me whenever a legal matter arose. Several years later he handled my divorce which was a very emotional ordeal. He was understanding, patient and once again took charge of what was needed to be done. And lastly, he helped me with the ordeal regarding the sale of my house. There were multiple problems that occurred and he was there to answer my questions, intervene with other lawyers and the real estate agents, offer support, and humor. The positive outcome was due to his hard work and diligence. There is no other person that I would use to handle any legal issues. His knowledge of the law is excellent but for me what has really made the difference is that he treats me with respect and cares about my well-being. He is the kind of lawyer, all lawyer should esteem to become.
Read more
31 Aug, 2022 by Stephanie
Mark Osborne and his team worked extremely fast and were able to get a positive outcome in Nashua district court. Without his help I’d never have known what to do.
Read more
25 May, 2022 by Brucemkt
I found out I had a legal issue in NH, It involved a lady that I used to date a couple years ago. I needed to hire a NH criminal lawyer to find out all the information regarding this case. Mr.. Osborne went above and beyond for me and he took the time to explain everything to me in great detail. I would highly recommend Mark if you're looking for a Lawyer that will truly be on your side and genuinely cares then this is your guy.
Bruce
Read more
07 Apr, 2022 by Esther
Mark is an excellent, hard working, honest lawyer who will fight hard for you. I cannot recommend him enough. He changed our life by getting our case dismissed.
Read more
30 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
By far, Attorney LaFrance from start to finish with my divorce case was extremely professional, well-detailed, informative, understanding and supportive.
Communication was also top-notch with Attorney LaFrance.
Clearly one can tell that Attorney LaFrance provides the respectful amount of attention, takes the time to listen and provide effective feedback in a very timely manner.
I am very grateful I found Attorney LaFrance who successfully assisted me in the most difficult time of my life from start to finish.
Thank you for everything, on behalf of myself and my daughter.
Read more
11 Apr, 2023 by Richard
Patricia (Patti) LaFrance esq. Is an amazing attorney. She did a very nice job laying out exactly what my expectations should be during my divorce. She quickly ascertained the nature of my case and the unique challenges that I was left to deal with. She is particularly well versed and known for her advocacy in domestic violence cases. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised when our Judge knew her by first name and referred to her work when she was with the prosecutors office. The judge certainly seemed to value her legal arguments and opinions. Needless to say I got a more-than fair result in my divorce. If I should ever be in the unfortunate need for an attorney then Patti is the very first person I am going to call. Thank you Patti for your incredible effort. It made a big difference for my children and myself.
Read more
17 Feb, 2020 by Ken
Patricia was hired to assist in appealing a denied claim filed with our insurance carrier for a large employee theft that occurred at my company. I had been battling back and forth for well over a year with our carrier before dismissing our current attorney and hiring Patricia. Patricia had the issue resolved for us within a couple months and our claim was paid in full. She has also been assisting us with the ongoing criminal investigation of the former employee and has been instrumental in keeping a very slow process moving forward. Patricia is personal, smart and extremely competent. I'd highly recommend hiring her for your legal matters.
Read more
07 Feb, 2018 by Joyce
I hired Attorney Worsley to take on my case which was turned down by many attorneys (7) in the northeast due to the complexity of the cases involved. Fact is she was up against a Family Law Attorney who's office is in Lowell Massachusetts. With Attorney Worley's expertise we were well armed in the courtrooms to handle the criminal and domestic charges that were filed against my X husband. With class Attorney Worsley professionally tore him and his Attorney apart in the courtroom. Attorney Worsley stood up for what was right, she defended myself and my 3 daughters with professionalism. Because of Attorney Worsley's brilliant courtroom expertise she had won on every level in each of the hearings in the Merrimack District Court, putting to shame our opponent. As I sit here today I cant help but think what an amazing job she had done for my 3 daughters and myself. We are free from his abuse and lies. we no longer live in constant fear. My daughters and I can sleep peacefully now thanks to Attorney Worsley.
Thank you Attorney Worsley for giving my daughters and myself a peaceful and happy life.
Read more
29 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I am very happy with how Dawn has handled my case, I feel that she really cares what happens and works hard to make everything right for you.
Read more
06 Nov, 2023 by Robert
November, 2023
Thank you Attorney Anthony Naro, Esq.
August 11th, 2023, came the call, ‘Go outside and enjoy the sunshine… it’s over’. These were the words from my lawyer telling me that the worst nightmare of my life had finally ended. Attorney Anthony “Tony” Naro, Esq. saved my life. In the two years prior to that call, I had lost everything; my career, my reputation, my apartment, my trust in people, my health, my identity and most of my friends. The fact that I knew I was innocent could not fight off the constant, intrusive thoughts of fear.
You see, I was accused of an awful crime that I did not commit. Unfortunately, as I quickly found out, the majority of people tend to believe whatever they hear and/or see without any need for convincing. You are deemed GUILTY by most who view the lies and distortions on the news, in print, and in conversations they have with others. You are “presumed innocent until proven guilty” is one of the most abhorrent of lies tangled into our need to believe that we can’t just fall victim to an accusation. Once accused, you quickly learn that this belief of assumed innocence is not true at all.
Tony Naro was there for me in so many ways throughout the whole process. He kept me updated and informed of every detail. He was incredibly responsive to my calls and emails. He never kept me waiting to hear back from him. He was understanding and compassionate over and beyond any expectation you may have from your lawyer. He listened to me express my fears and truly understood the depth of darkness I was feeling. He understood when I, on more than one occasion, broke down into tears in his office. He made that ok for me to do.
He never misled me or gave me false hopes. He was honest and direct about where we were at along the way through the legal process. He knew every expert to hire to solidify our case and give the evidence to prove my innocence. He knew and pursued all the right legal angles to provide an impenetrable defense. How do you show gratitude to someone like him? I can’t imagine what might have happened if I did not have Tony representing me. There really are no words that can fully encapsulate my thankfulness to Attorney Naro “Tony”.
Tony gave me my faith back. I am reminded of a Psalm; Psalm 40: “He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock”.
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Siaina campbell
I cannot express my gratitude! He is articulate, knowledgeable, and straight forward. Every step went exactly as he suspected, worth every penny!
Read more
27 Mar, 2024 by Raul g
Mark is such a great person and lawyer , as well as his team great people all around. Got me amazing results and helped me all the way through my case. Couldn’t recommend somebody better . Once again thank you for everything and finally done from this mentally exhausting few months.
Read more
18 Jan, 2024 by Ryan mallette
Mark never stopped making sure I was completely up to date, I’m the loop and comfortable with any and all parts of my case as it took place. I couldn’t be happier with the end result he worked tirelessly towards to get me to. Thank you again Mark and Krista for all you do, you guys are undoubtedly the best!
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Danielle morin
Working with David and his staff was a pleasure despite the circumstances I was in. Everyone was very professional and helpful in explaining the case every step of the way. I am very satisfied with the outcome.
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Stephen mardis
I am writing this review to express my most sincere thanks for the professional representation Attorney David Gottesman provided over the past several weeks. Having worked with Gottesman & Hollis for several decades I can truly attest to the fact they are one of if not the best law firms in New England. Davids professionalism, swift responses, and attention to detail is second to none. I was originally referred to David as I was told he was one of the most ethical, honest and knowledgeable attorneys in New England. They were correct. Whenever I need legal advice or action, David is always the Attorney I call.
Read more
26 Feb, 2024 by Dan collins
They helped on a difficult matter that affected my family quite a bit with expertise and a personal touch. We all felt confident throughout the whole process that we were in good hands. Absolutely would recommend calling David Gottesman for assistance.
Read more
21 Feb, 2024 by Steve meisner
Raymond Mello was absolutely great. His guidance and reassurance really helped us through a difficult ordeal. He is very experienced and should be trusted at every turn. He is wonderful to have in our corner!
Read more
14 Dec, 2023 by Krystle poulin
Attorney Ray Mello is the best! He is compassionate, caring, honest, and hardworking. He got me through a very tough time in my life, and a difficult parenting case. Things ended up working out, and I thank attorney Mello for his part in that. He is very experienced in many facets of the law and judicial system. If you are looking for marital or criminal, he does it all. Ray goes above and beyond to provide the best legal counsel and support to his clients. Ray truly cares about people and it shows. I can not recommend Ray and his firm enough!
Read more
07 Jul, 2023 by James mulligan
Ray ! What can I say from my divorce to a few personal issues! Your experience as police officer to a prosecutor to an attorney! Thank you I always and quote you ! You leave as friend of the firm ! Thank you !!!
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Natalie brusso
I highly recommend Kent Barker. He was so helpful throughout the entire process. Very professional and efficient. Great communication whether it be email or phone. If I ever need a lawyer again, I will for sure be in contact again.
Read more
04 Dec, 2023 by Stephen allen
Super professional help and guidance on my estate planning.
Read more
11 Oct, 2023 by Billie jo thompson
I would like to express my gratitude to J. Daniel Marr, Esquire at Hamblett & Kerrigan, P.A. I received prompt and professional assistance with outstanding personal communication which provided me assurance and confidence during a difficult time. Daniel was able to resolve to my absolute satisfaction the critical matter that was detrimental to me, in a timely manner and with fair compensation. With all respect and appreciation for Daniel Marr, Esquire I most certainly would recommend his capabilities to others.
Sincerely,
BJT
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer a hammond
Absolutely amazing attorney. Extremely well versed in what he does. Handled my case questions throughly, completely, and more effectively than 2 other law firms had. I am grateful to have had such sound legal advice during my time of need.
Read more
16 Apr, 2024 by Jessica harrison
VERY HELPFUL
Read more
27 Oct, 2023 by Tim o'connell
Mike was a pleasure to work with. He was clear and concise in his communications. His fees were reasonable and exactly what he said they would be. He was efficient, knowledgeable and clearly explained what was happening each step of processing my brother's estate. He listened to my questions with patience and counseled me honestly and with my best interests at heart. I would happily work with Mike again on any legal matter and I give him the highest recommendation. He may be a great lawyer, but he is also a good guy, which might be even more important.
Thank you Mike!
-Tim O'Connell
Read more
05 Jan, 2022 by Steve
Hired Tim for criminal defense for an unfortunate 3rd DUI. He picked up his phone on a Sunday and gave me a consultation and a little bit of hope. He claimed that he could get my aggravated 3rd offense DUI pled down to a 2nd offense (even though I was within NH's 10 year look back period). I did what he told me to do and he negotiated with the prosecutor and got the deal done. Was also able to move the court date out to accommodate my request. Tim has experience and is a pleasure to work with. I'd recommend him for any DUI case.
Read more
17 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Timothy Goulden was excellent I would definitely hire him. He was available, attentive and professional. He has a great demeanor and is very knowledgeable. I am very grateful he was our lawyer.
Read more
12 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I received a Reckless Operation charge in NH as an out of state operator. Tim Goulden was the first attorney I contacted, and he answered my call early on a Monday morning. I went with my gut and hired Tim right away. I had also contacted four others that morning, with one calling back a week later (with a much larger fee), one a month later, and one that never called back. My instinct proved correct, as Tim made the whole process relatively stress free. Tim got the charge reduced and I never had to go to court. In fact, I never even met Tim personally. There was no need. He took care of it all. I highly recommend Tim's services.
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by One vote
One needs a lawyer to believe in them first and foremost. Attn. Lee did! He believed in me and why I had to seek out a Legal Separation/Divorce lawyer to begin with. Attn Lee is Knowledgeable, Confident and
Self Assured--attributes one needs in a lawyer. He never once shied away from any challenge, he met them head on. A difficult case but my lawyer prevailed. I will be forever grateful. I highly recommend Attn Lee and this law Firm, Small and Lee. 5 Stars.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Zachary mastrangelo
10 Dec, 2023 by Matthew g
Mike is awesome. Will recommend him to anyone!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by One vote
One needs a lawyer to believe in them first and foremost. Attn. Lee did! He believed in me and why I had to seek out a Legal Separation/Divorce lawyer to begin with. Attn Lee is Knowledgeable, Confident and
Self Assured--attributes one needs in a lawyer. He never once shied away from any challenge, he met them head on. A difficult case but my lawyer prevailed. I will be forever grateful. I highly recommend Attn Lee and this law Firm, Small and Lee. 5 Stars.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Zachary mastrangelo
10 Dec, 2023 by Matthew g
Mike is awesome. Will recommend him to anyone!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by One vote
One needs a lawyer to believe in them first and foremost. Attn. Lee did! He believed in me and why I had to seek out a Legal Separation/Divorce lawyer to begin with. Attn Lee is Knowledgeable, Confident and
Self Assured--attributes one needs in a lawyer. He never once shied away from any challenge, he met them head on. A difficult case but my lawyer prevailed. I will be forever grateful. I highly recommend Attn Lee and this law Firm, Small and Lee. 5 Stars.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Zachary mastrangelo
10 Dec, 2023 by Matthew g
Mike is awesome. Will recommend him to anyone!
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Gate city monument, inc.
07 Dec, 2023 by Candy keraghan
07 Dec, 2023 by Julia wade
22 Sep, 2020 by Erica
mike is top notch and he wasn't like other lawyers i had met with, or just looking for money... He actually cared about me and my well being ..I was facing a dui , accident and jail time and mike got me a minimum license loss with no jail time... I will never ever go through this again , but mike was so amazing to work with and having him by my side telling me everything would be okay is what i needed.... if you need someone to look out for you and that knows what they are doing , Hire Mike Anzalone he is the best of the best...Can i add that he called me even after he was done with my case to answer some questions , No lawyer does that .... so just goes to show how great he is and is an attorney that actually cares!! thank you Michael:)
Read more
07 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Unprofessional. Shady. Sketchy. When I first called he acted like he was so happy to work with me. He got his down payment and said I had until my next court date which was in 2 months to pay the remainder. He called 2 weeks later demanding the money so at the end of that week I tried to call back to pay him. I called every day with no answer. Not to mention during the whole time I was dealing with him he was hard to contact and never returned any calls. I then got a letter in the mail with a check for my down payment saying there was a communication error and that he didn't want to continue working with me. No. The communication error is that I have called and called to try to pay him and he refused to work with me. He is the most unhelpful and unprofessional "business man" I have ever dealt with. I would not recommend to anybody.
Read more
10 Oct, 2012 by Matt
I was rear ended. I contacted a couple lawyers but none wanted my case. One said my injuries weren't severe enough, the other just never got back to me after our first talk. I was going to give up, but I called Mike Anzalone. He talked to me about my injuries and how the accident happened and really made me feel like he gave a damn about my case. Well I am so thankful he did. I ended up with a five figure settlement. I cannot express how happy I am with Mr. Anzalone and his staff. Especially his secretary, I think her name was Kathleen. She was very helpful. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Anzalone Law Firm to anyone with an injury. Even if another lawyer blows you off, or just makes you feel like they don't care about your case. Call Mike Anzalone, he will take care of you. He definitely helped me, more than I could've expected. Thanks Mike!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Diane bourque
I worked with Andrea recently as the Executrix of an estate plan that she had prepared. She walked me through my responsibilities and the requirements of the probate process clearly and professionally. She was always immediately responsive to any of my questions and issues. Thank you Andrea for all your help.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Jd solilo
We found them professional, and well valued. Their communication was excellent and were always easy to contact through out the entire process.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Monica verville
Kent Barker handled a personal injury case for my partner involving a dog bite that tore my partner’s rotator cuff and resulted in needed surgery which caused lost time at work, and many medical bills from hospital and physical therapy.
Kent was able to negotiate a settlement on our behalf that not only paid the Medicare expenses but also our bills and covered lost wages
We would not have been so lucky or successful in this pursuit without Kent’s assistance.
Furthermore, both Kent and his assistant Taylor were extremely transparent and communicative during the entire process. They are a great team with wonderful professionalism and attentiveness.
We thank them for helping us close the chapter of an unfortunate incident in a positive way.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
