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18 Sep, 2024 by Gena
My son was in a lot of trouble. Everyone kept telling us that he was going to get prison time.
He was in a relationship with someone who got a protective order against him based off of of false information. She would then call and report that he wasn't following the protective order anytime she would get upset with him and he kept being arrested.
Nathan was able to ask us the important questions quickly and come up with a plan. He would give me a list of what he needed from us such as witness letters and any other type of evidence proving that what she was saying was untrue.
My son was able to get out of going to prison, and instead got adult probation.
If you want to reduce what sentence you could possibly get I would highly recommend selecting Nathan as your attorney.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Nathan is a great lawyer. He got me a really good sentence when I was facing prison time. He works great with his defendants. I didn’t even do anymore jail time this time around when I was facing hard time.
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09 Sep, 2024 by John
Nathan is a great lawyer. Since day one he was very professional. He took care of my case like no other lawyers in Utah! Very stand up man. Highly recommend!
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30 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
My son had a DUI charge and In short Mr. Neely had the case reduced to a careless driving ticket without going to trial. Superb lawyer. He literally saved my sons life in my opinion. Glen is worth every dollar he charges.
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22 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Glen was helpful throughout the entire process and was the overall results were amazing. If you want a great lawyer and someone to help guide you through a bad situation I would refer Glen 10/10.
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21 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I received a DUI in Lehi. What a horrible and demoralizing experience. I contacted Glen because of his good representation. I am glad I did. He went through every aspect of the case and challenged the probable cause to arrest me. Glen’s cross examination of the cop was excellent. He showed how the officer did everything wrong. By the time Glen was done, the judge didn’t hesitate to completely dismiss the case. Thank you Glen. I would not hesitate to recommend Glen.
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27 Oct, 2019 by Jorge
I went through a very tough custody battle and had to deal with my spouse trying to make me sell our home, Jon was there every step of the way! Answered all email and calls when I had an emergency. He was very good in court telling the commissioner about everything. His way of dealing with court helped us get everything we wanted up front and easy for the commissioner to see. I got 50/50 custody and was able to keep the marital home thanks to Jonathon. He is awesome!!
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19 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Jonathan is an excellent attorney. He is reasonable and focused on obtaining the best result for his client and ensuring that their positions are clearly articulated and well-defended.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I obtained Jonathan Felt as counsel for a guardianship matter.
Not only did Jonathan work relentlessly on my case, but he also went the extra mile in keeping me informed as to changes and developments.
I found him to be easy to contact and we had several discussions about what I could expect and what was the best thing for the case.
Jonathan is honest, trustworthy, and I couldn't have been more pleased with his performance.
I recommend him highly.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Daniel
If you want to sleep at night without any worry or concern about your case then you have to retain Jason Richards! If you are ok with being sick to your stomach and full of worry and doubt, then hire anybody else.
I left Utah in 2015 for personal reasons, leaving behind my little girl. I wound up in Long Island, NY. My daughter came to visit for the summer, we just bought our dream house, have great jobs, were about to get engaged, and were already planning a fall wedding. We had a lot on our plate. Then, my daughter informed me, that her living situation at home was less than ideal. Frankly, it was dangerous, neglectful, and irresponsible. I told her “they’ll have to throw me in jail before you ever go back there”.
A friend of mine who works for DCFS in Ogden gave me one recommendation. My wife’s uncle who is a big shot attorney in NYC did his research, also giving me one recommendation. That Jason Richards is the best of the best! I was told “he’s a bulldog in the courtroom”. So that’s what I did. I explained my situation, and knowing how challenging it would be for a father to gain custody across State lines, he gladly accepted the task.
From the get go I was expertly guided through the labyrinth of procedures that we would have to go through. He conveyed his opinions effectively, while ultimately allowing me autonomy to go in the direction I wish. I took all of his suggestions, the best thing I’ve possibly ever done. Ultimately it took us about 9 months, several flights from NY and back, and a lot of digging, but we won! We won in a landslide because Jason IS a bulldog in the courtroom! The way he prepared and executed was one of pinpoint precision. He was always steps ahead of the opposition, prepared to counter in ways that literally left them without a rebuttal. He was there to answer any questions I had at literally any time of day. He made a situation which could be extremely frustrating, exhausting, and at times overwhelming, as peaceful as a massage Oceanside while on vacation in the Bahamas! Jason not only was my representation, but at this point I consider him to be my friend. An extension of my family.
Again, I cannot stress enough, JASON IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST ATTORNEY YOU COULD POSSIBLY ASK FOR, stop questioning yourself and hire him. It’ll be the best decision you’ve ever made for you and your family.
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10 Dec, 2019 by Charles
Jason is professional and knowledgeable! He knew what he was doing and always replied quickly with the questions and concerns I had! Full recommendations
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23 Jun, 2017 by Petit
Jason came highly recommended. We had previously worked with another lawyer who left our custody case in a shambles. Jason is not only very knowledgeable about family law, but he is very dedicated to his clients. We were kept up to date on everything going on with the case and he always responded quickly to any concerns or questions. He's a sharp lawyer and a good man, besides. When a conflict of interest arose that prevented him from continuing as our lawyer, he was very anxious to find the right lawyer to take over our case. He didn't just give us referrals of who to call, but contacted people he knew personally who would be able to deal with a complex case.
We would wholeheartedly recommend Jason Richards to anyone who needs a great lawyer for a family, criminal, or bankruptcy case. He took very good care of us.
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17 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
My family and I were lost with our immigration issues. We had used attorneys before but did not have good experiences. On a whim after a google search, we found Dan and went in not knowing quite what to expect as attorneys had failed us before. After speaking with him for a single meeting we knew that he was a much higher caliber of person and we began to have hope again. He is knowledgeable, caring, and professional. He made sure to take the necessary time and efforts to understand the entire case, something that we could get out of nobody else. He worked so hard for us and he fought harder! When it came time for court he was prepared and flexible. He always took the time to answer any questions or quell any concerns. I would highly recommend Daniel Black to anybody needing help. I don't know how to say thank you enough.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Jenny
I hired Mr. Black a year ago. He shows me his human side and fight so hard for my case. He responded promptly and always all my questions. He is a integral person and a guy who you can trust. Thanks Daniel.
Contrate a Mr. Daniel. Excelente abogado y persona. Integra y en quien puedes confiar. Habla perfectamente español y peleará por ti . Siempre contesta correos y llamadas telefónica y todas tus dudas. Recomiendo altamente a Daniel black.
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21 Aug, 2015 by Kevin
I have never had an experience with an attorney who actually looked at me as a person. Mr. Black treated me with respect, and considering what I was up against, no one else would. I had been charged with several protective order violations, DV assault, theft, and vehicle burglary. I can already see whoever is reading this is thinking exactly what everyone else did. Mr. Black, however, listened to my story and handled my cases as though he were a seasoned professional. Anyway, Long story short, I was convicted of 1 protective order violation from sending a text message, and 1 class B attempted assault. The circumstances were completely against me and my civil rights were repeatedly violated. Mr Black, thank you for all you helped me with and for working so hard on my cases. And for treating me with respect.
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24 Aug, 2016 by Tina
At the time I hired Paul, I was two years into a divorce that was costing me a ton of money and going no where. Paul took my case and helped bring it to a conclusion in a expeditious and professional manner that helped save me money and my sanity!
Paul was fantastic to work with and I really felt like he had my best interest in mind. I could not be more grateful to both he and his assistant Shaylee for the great work they did! I would absolutely recommend him.
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10 Apr, 2016 by Eric
I am in the Air Force and stationed overseas. Through some shady dealings my daughter was forced to stay behind in the states with my ex wife. A couple of months after i left the country my ex ended up in alcohol rehab. Because of my military status and living overseas I had a short window of time to gain custody of my daughter. Paul seemingly to me dropped everything and helped me out because of the compressed time frame. I ended up with custody of my daughter and still have her safe with me to this day. I couldn't have asked for better, more personalized service than what Paul gave me.
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06 Nov, 2015 by Jennifer
I can't recommend Paul highly enough. He represented me in my divorce and went above and beyond my expectations. His fee was extremely reasonable, and I've recommended him to friends and family who needed legal representation.
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05 Jan, 2015 by Robert
I had Ms. Mills as my lawyer and she kept me out of Prison i would recommend her to others looking for a good attonery
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10 Jun, 2014 by Tanna
Hailey put up a good fight in my defense. She went as far as visiting me in
jail after being defeated...not by her faults..but my own. I would highly recommend Hailey to anyone. She really cares and knows what she is doing in a courtroom.
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14 Nov, 2016 by Judy
Kevin has helped me out with a lot of situations with the upmost professional manner. I appreciate everything he has done for me.
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13 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Andrew Klee is a very knowledgeable attourney. I contacted him on behalf of a legal matter with my spouse. He was able to answer all my questions promptly and helped me work out a solution.
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16 Dec, 2020 by Becky
I hired Ben right before a court date. We only had one meeting before the court date and he listened to everything I said. He gave me real honest feedback and told me the sticky situation I was in with my divorce. During the court date, he killed it. He stood up for me, he listened to me, he reasoned with the opposing attorney and called out his crap. He suggested strategies and ideas I hadn't thought of. He an expert in his field and I would HIGHLY recommend him.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Cody barton
I appreciate that Craig Swapp & Associates give back to the community by providing backpacks each year!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Kyle frei
Craig Swapp & Associates employees are always willing to help answer my questions! Thanks guys!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jordan mickles
Very impressed with the backpack event they put on every year to give back with the community.
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23 Sep, 2023 by Ciana hellan
20 Oct, 2022 by Renae larson
I cannot say enough good about Jason Richards! Not only is He highly intelligent and well versed in Family Law, he is also kind, thoughtful, humble, and honest. He accomplished what is almost impossible to do and helped me adopt my granddaughter with his quick, forward thinking actions. Brilliant!
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15 Apr, 2022 by Christina quintana
The. Same. Here. At. Valencia. Aprtmnt. Nik. Blanco. Stolen. 2800.00. Right out. Of. My. Hands. He. Kicked. The. Mail. Out. Of. My. Hands. Feb 2021. From #411 too. #413. The. Mail. Flew and. They. Stolen. It. From. Christina Quintana. Door fed ex. Ups. Cash app. Mail money. Rewards. For. Winning. Games. On. The. Phone winnings .. but. I. Got. Too. Prove. It. The. Video. Tape. Camera. Shows. It. I call. The. Manager. She. Didn't. Do. Nothing. About. It.
I call the. Post. Office. .them. Either. Help. Me. Get. My. Money. Back. Please ..
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23 Sep, 2023 by Ciana hellan
20 Oct, 2022 by Renae larson
I cannot say enough good about Jason Richards! Not only is He highly intelligent and well versed in Family Law, he is also kind, thoughtful, humble, and honest. He accomplished what is almost impossible to do and helped me adopt my granddaughter with his quick, forward thinking actions. Brilliant!
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15 Apr, 2022 by Christina quintana
The. Same. Here. At. Valencia. Aprtmnt. Nik. Blanco. Stolen. 2800.00. Right out. Of. My. Hands. He. Kicked. The. Mail. Out. Of. My. Hands. Feb 2021. From #411 too. #413. The. Mail. Flew and. They. Stolen. It. From. Christina Quintana. Door fed ex. Ups. Cash app. Mail money. Rewards. For. Winning. Games. On. The. Phone winnings .. but. I. Got. Too. Prove. It. The. Video. Tape. Camera. Shows. It. I call. The. Manager. She. Didn't. Do. Nothing. About. It.
I call the. Post. Office. .them. Either. Help. Me. Get. My. Money. Back. Please ..
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24 Apr, 2024 by Amalia carrillo
23 Apr, 2024 by Red elephant91
Really helped us out in our case!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Jordan spell
I first met Nathan at my first appearance where he gave me his card and told me what to say to the judge to get enough time to find counsel. I reached out to him and he helped me work out a payment plan and let me know how he would proceed from there. The past 6ish months, he has taken amazing care of me. He was always available to meet to answer any questions or concerns I had. His knowledge of our justice system is impeccable and he was able to significantly reduce and even dismiss some of my charges. He’s even willing to go back to court with you the next year to fully close your case. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney. Thanks a billion, Nathan!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Amalia carrillo
23 Apr, 2024 by Red elephant91
Really helped us out in our case!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Jordan spell
I first met Nathan at my first appearance where he gave me his card and told me what to say to the judge to get enough time to find counsel. I reached out to him and he helped me work out a payment plan and let me know how he would proceed from there. The past 6ish months, he has taken amazing care of me. He was always available to meet to answer any questions or concerns I had. His knowledge of our justice system is impeccable and he was able to significantly reduce and even dismiss some of my charges. He’s even willing to go back to court with you the next year to fully close your case. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney. Thanks a billion, Nathan!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Janci petersen
From the first minutes I spoke to Shawn he was more honest than the several other lawyers I'd spoken to regarding reasonable expectations, pricing, etc. He laid out every option & possibility. It was obvious he was respected by the judge & others in court as well which I find an important quality when retaining legal counsel in local matters. Thank you Shawn, thank you Condie Law Firm! 💗
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03 May, 2024 by Civic glixcy
Great attorney. Couldn’t ask for anyone else to represent me. Give this beast a call for any legal issues 👍🏻👍🏻
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14 Feb, 2024 by H t
Shawn condie amazing and hard to believe only a public defender! Condie definitely approaches every case with more professionalism and knowledge of law and optimism then the entire Bar List of professionals what he has that no other legal group has is the willingness to innovate and be your teammate to accomplish real justice. Keep up the good work Mr condie!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Dominique reviea
I did a lot of research and calls while searching for a lawyer. Once I spoke with Isaac, I knew he was going to be the one I hired. He was immediately interested in my case and asked all the questions the other lawyers didn't. He truly made me feel like he cared about my situation and his goal was for things to end in my best interest. It was a long process, but he and Kellie kept me updated as much as they could. Isaac was knowledgeable and efficient, he did everything he could to provide me the best service at the best cost. 10/10 recommend and I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Darrin france
Issac and his staff are very attentive to detail. The expertise in the office makes the law process easy to understand. Definitely put this law firm in your contacts.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Karlous moran
Great customer service, very professional and helpful! Will definitely be using their services in the future.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Dominique reviea
I did a lot of research and calls while searching for a lawyer. Once I spoke with Isaac, I knew he was going to be the one I hired. He was immediately interested in my case and asked all the questions the other lawyers didn't. He truly made me feel like he cared about my situation and his goal was for things to end in my best interest. It was a long process, but he and Kellie kept me updated as much as they could. Isaac was knowledgeable and efficient, he did everything he could to provide me the best service at the best cost. 10/10 recommend and I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Darrin france
Issac and his staff are very attentive to detail. The expertise in the office makes the law process easy to understand. Definitely put this law firm in your contacts.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Karlous moran
Great customer service, very professional and helpful! Will definitely be using their services in the future.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Natalie buck
Kris Greenwood has been phenomenal! I can’t say enough good things about him and the work he has done for my case. Kris is incredibly thorough and professional and has been so well prepared for each hearing we have had. I always knew exactly what he was working on and what I needed to be working on and our phone calls and meetings were always organized and productive. It feels like you are his only client the way he pours his focus and effort into your case. Kris is the best of the best!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Glenn j. letteer, ed.d, mba
31 Aug, 2024 by Steven allred
Mohammed was a life saver can't thank him enough!! I was taken back to court unfairly and didn't know where to turn. He jumped right on the case keeping me in the loop the hole way he fought for me like a warrior and kept me out of the Cort room thanks guys 👍
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04 Sep, 2024 by Natalie buck
Kris Greenwood has been phenomenal! I can’t say enough good things about him and the work he has done for my case. Kris is incredibly thorough and professional and has been so well prepared for each hearing we have had. I always knew exactly what he was working on and what I needed to be working on and our phone calls and meetings were always organized and productive. It feels like you are his only client the way he pours his focus and effort into your case. Kris is the best of the best!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Glenn j. letteer, ed.d, mba
31 Aug, 2024 by Steven allred
Mohammed was a life saver can't thank him enough!! I was taken back to court unfairly and didn't know where to turn. He jumped right on the case keeping me in the loop the hole way he fought for me like a warrior and kept me out of the Cort room thanks guys 👍
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12 Sep, 2024 by Connie porter
Very awesome! Needed a listening ear and they were there to help me with my case!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Grounded soul wellness
Matthew Miles has been amazing to work with. He truly cares about his clients. He goes above and beyond. I highly recommend him.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Susan schreiner
We have been very pleased with the work Froerer and Miles has done for us and for friends of ours. They are knowledgeable, clear and upfront with pricing, and not pretentious. Highly recommend.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Natalie buck
Kris Greenwood has been phenomenal! I can’t say enough good things about him and the work he has done for my case. Kris is incredibly thorough and professional and has been so well prepared for each hearing we have had. I always knew exactly what he was working on and what I needed to be working on and our phone calls and meetings were always organized and productive. It feels like you are his only client the way he pours his focus and effort into your case. Kris is the best of the best!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Glenn j. letteer, ed.d, mba
31 Aug, 2024 by Steven allred
Mohammed was a life saver can't thank him enough!! I was taken back to court unfairly and didn't know where to turn. He jumped right on the case keeping me in the loop the hole way he fought for me like a warrior and kept me out of the Cort room thanks guys 👍
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24 Apr, 2024 by Alejandro ramos
Professional experience
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15 Apr, 2024 by Jason culpepper
I would definitely recommend The Advocates. I had a great experience with everyone I had interactions with.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Lenora combe
12 Sep, 2024 by Connie porter
Very awesome! Needed a listening ear and they were there to help me with my case!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Grounded soul wellness
Matthew Miles has been amazing to work with. He truly cares about his clients. He goes above and beyond. I highly recommend him.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Susan schreiner
We have been very pleased with the work Froerer and Miles has done for us and for friends of ours. They are knowledgeable, clear and upfront with pricing, and not pretentious. Highly recommend.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Rita wilson
We reached out to Brady when our grandson found himself needing representation for some charges during a traffic stop. Brady was recommended by our family lawyer and friends in LE.
He and his office took a genuine interest in our family, reassured us, and gave some tough love when needed by our grandson. But every step of the way, Brady represented his rights even though his actions got him in his predicament; Brady said his job was to ensure that procedures were followed and that he was not unjustly prosecuted. Ultimately the issue was resolved to everyone’s satisfaction and after nearly a year, it’s finally behind us. If you break the law obviously there are consequences, but you really need Mr. Brady Stuart in your corner. He and the office staff will remain on the Christmas card list for sure! Thank you for everything.
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21 Sep, 2023 by Nathan “mini mountain man” winner
I cannot insinuate just how amazing these people are. They have been working with me for the last two years and through the entire process they have been friendly, responsive, and above all informative. I cannot make this clear enough that choosing them to represent you is the best idea you will ever make!
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22 Jun, 2023 by Courtney holmes
he’s my public defender and i am very happy hes been there to help me
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09 Aug, 2024 by Dominique reviea
I did a lot of research and calls while searching for a lawyer. Once I spoke with Isaac, I knew he was going to be the one I hired. He was immediately interested in my case and asked all the questions the other lawyers didn't. He truly made me feel like he cared about my situation and his goal was for things to end in my best interest. It was a long process, but he and Kellie kept me updated as much as they could. Isaac was knowledgeable and efficient, he did everything he could to provide me the best service at the best cost. 10/10 recommend and I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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03 May, 2024 by Jim gerdes
18 Apr, 2024 by Darrin france
Issac and his staff are very attentive to detail. The expertise in the office makes the law process easy to understand. Definitely put this law firm in your contacts.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Dominique reviea
I did a lot of research and calls while searching for a lawyer. Once I spoke with Isaac, I knew he was going to be the one I hired. He was immediately interested in my case and asked all the questions the other lawyers didn't. He truly made me feel like he cared about my situation and his goal was for things to end in my best interest. It was a long process, but he and Kellie kept me updated as much as they could. Isaac was knowledgeable and efficient, he did everything he could to provide me the best service at the best cost. 10/10 recommend and I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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03 May, 2024 by Jim gerdes
18 Apr, 2024 by Darrin france
Issac and his staff are very attentive to detail. The expertise in the office makes the law process easy to understand. Definitely put this law firm in your contacts.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Brandon gramse
Deven took over my divorce case and was able to get it closed in no time! He set the right expectations and delivered as promised, without any additional unexpected fees. He's easy to talk to - is very personable. I'll definitely hire him for my next divorce! 😜
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15 Jun, 2024 by Natalie davidson
Wadsworth ZERO follow through but keeps charging more and more. He was NOT strategic and attempted multiple routes at once rather than being goal oriented and completing one endeavor before the next.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Pamela hansen
09 Aug, 2024 by Dominique reviea
I did a lot of research and calls while searching for a lawyer. Once I spoke with Isaac, I knew he was going to be the one I hired. He was immediately interested in my case and asked all the questions the other lawyers didn't. He truly made me feel like he cared about my situation and his goal was for things to end in my best interest. It was a long process, but he and Kellie kept me updated as much as they could. Isaac was knowledgeable and efficient, he did everything he could to provide me the best service at the best cost. 10/10 recommend and I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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03 May, 2024 by Jim gerdes
18 Apr, 2024 by Darrin france
Issac and his staff are very attentive to detail. The expertise in the office makes the law process easy to understand. Definitely put this law firm in your contacts.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Dominique reviea
I did a lot of research and calls while searching for a lawyer. Once I spoke with Isaac, I knew he was going to be the one I hired. He was immediately interested in my case and asked all the questions the other lawyers didn't. He truly made me feel like he cared about my situation and his goal was for things to end in my best interest. It was a long process, but he and Kellie kept me updated as much as they could. Isaac was knowledgeable and efficient, he did everything he could to provide me the best service at the best cost. 10/10 recommend and I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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03 May, 2024 by Jim gerdes
18 Apr, 2024 by Darrin france
Issac and his staff are very attentive to detail. The expertise in the office makes the law process easy to understand. Definitely put this law firm in your contacts.
Read more
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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.
