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10 Dec, 2024 by Mariah jacob
Great team ! Highly recommend
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11 Nov, 2024 by Sharon tex
31 Oct, 2024 by Jason tadlock
Such a great team! They went beyond what was expected. Through a challenging situation, they relieved a lot of stress and helped me get the help I needed. I was injured in a car accident and didn't know exactly what to do. Craig and Pat payed great attention to my case and communication was spot on. The whole team is amazing and I highly recommend using them if you are in a situation where you need help. Thank you all for everything you have done for me!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Caston yanez
05 Nov, 2024 by Jesse staton
He does great work
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25 Oct, 2024 by Mia flores
Steven Montag helped me out so much! I am very satisfied with the service and money I received, and would recommend to everybody!
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06 Jan, 2025 by Steven
The advocates are highly recommended. They are very professional, patience , and willing to take the time to listen to what you are going through. You can't go to them, they will go to you.. I was very pleased with Mandy G.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Willie mccoy
Thank you all for helping me with my case. I appreciate the effort. Happy Holidays!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Sheri lee
31 Jan, 2025 by Iracema milla
Working with Guy was a great experience!! Now I have a green card and I feel like the wait was worth it. Thanks a lot!!
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31 Dec, 2024 by Gabriela mata
17 Dec, 2024 by Lesvia rodriguez
31 Jan, 2025 by Iracema milla
Working with Guy was a great experience!! Now I have a green card and I feel like the wait was worth it. Thanks a lot!!
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31 Dec, 2024 by Gabriela mata
17 Dec, 2024 by Lesvia rodriguez
31 Jan, 2025 by Iracema milla
Working with Guy was a great experience!! Now I have a green card and I feel like the wait was worth it. Thanks a lot!!
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31 Dec, 2024 by Gabriela mata
17 Dec, 2024 by Lesvia rodriguez
31 Jan, 2025 by Iracema milla
Working with Guy was a great experience!! Now I have a green card and I feel like the wait was worth it. Thanks a lot!!
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31 Dec, 2024 by Gabriela mata
17 Dec, 2024 by Lesvia rodriguez
07 Mar, 2024 by Nancy brienzo
Worked with Mary. She is Brightest person in Law I have ever met. She is like an encyclopedia. She can quote
Law statues on the spot. Also very
Compassionate person. So us her brother Craige. Only Attorney I'd use
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16 Nov, 2019 by Fannie brown
29 Jan, 2019 by Roe casey
15 Nov, 2024 by Mary boyd
01 Oct, 2024 by Nan t
I highly recommend this firm. I spent quite a while attempting to complete the application on my own, but eventually gave up. I contacted a few firms, but Cavanaugh was the only one with both immediate availability and a willingness to help with the initial disability application. Turning it over to Cavanaugh Law Firm was a huge relief, as I was really stressed about the application.
I had numerous questions throughout the process, but neither Kathleen Smith nor Mary Kellogg ever sounded annoyed, which I truly appreciated. The application process went extremely smoothly and was surprisingly quick. They kept me updated every step of the way, and I have absolutely no regrets about choosing Cavanaugh.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Paul nave
Cavanaugh Law Firm
Patrick Cavanaugh, Kathleen Smith did a wonderful job with my case. In fact, I'd say it was above and beyond wonderful. I am exceptionally pleased. Kathleen Smith especially as she worked all the details. She was very dedicated to helping me through the entire enrollment process. She gave great advice and guidance for filling out forms required, handled and followed up with the Social Security Administration. She returned my emails and answered my questions quickly. All this got me my benefit so fast. I was like WOW! Literally, within a month I received my benefit and within another month, received approval for my disability benefit. I have no doubt that without their help, I would still be waiting for my benefit not to mention the frustration with going at it by myself. I highly recommend the Cavanaugh Law Firm. If you're thinking about asking for help DO IT WITH THEM!
Paul Nave
July 2024
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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31 Jan, 2025 by Lucas franklin
Kyle McGinn was THE best lawyer I have ever met. Thanks for the advice
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22 Nov, 2024 by Tim fleshman
I was involved in a vehicular accident that resulted in myself needing to consult with an attorney. I contacted Hauptman Obrien law firm and was referred to Kyle Mcginnis. He took on my case and I couldn't be happier! He outlined everything with clear and precise intentions as to what he could do for me. I have to say, I was very impressed with whom he is, not only as an attorney, but as a genuine person who cares. He handled my case with determination and professionalism. I would highly recommend Kyle to anyone needing a personal injury attorney! Honest and to the point, with an unmatched personality, that i believe, anyone in rough spot do to an injury like myself, would gain peace of mind having him on your side. From myself and my family, thank you Kyle, for everything that you were able to accomplish!
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22 Oct, 2024 by Miki ram
they were they were prompt and answering. Our questions told us if they could help us or not very good law firm
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02 Dec, 2022 by Dirk
Hello. My name is Dirk and I was unexpectedly served divorce papers by my wife a few months ago. As I never saw this coming, & since young kids were involved, you can imagine how frantic and emotionally distraught I was. Additionally, I was informed that there was to be an emergency custody hearing on Tuesday…note: it was Friday afternoon when I was served. Therefore, I had to research and retain a Family Law attorney by Monday (only one day before the hearing). Thus, I sped through Google looking for any family lawyer with a decent Google Review Score (4+ Stars). I didn’t know what I was looking for, but I really needed help. Now.
I called a few firms Monday morning. The fee to retain their services varied (with one stating they needed $4,500!). I politely rejected that offer. Now, however, looking back…maybe I should have gone with the bigger firm requesting the larger retainer. The firm that I landed on was Wes Dodge Law. To Wes’s benefit, he did agree to meet me with no prior notice on that Monday. His initial willingness to jump through hoops, so I thought, was an action that I greatly respected at the time. We met in person, and after talking for about 10 minutes, I noticed that Wes was somewhat of a stoic individual. Not unprofessional, but the way he interacted was cold. Seeing how I was still an emotional wreck due to the divorce revelation, I would have presumed his “bedside manner”, as I would of any Family Law Attorney, would have been a bit better. It wasn’t.
The retainer initially charged for my case was only around half of the $4,500 retainer cited by the previous firm & sounded like a huge break for me. I agreed and then between Monday/Tuesday was able to coordinate with Wes to compose an affidavit to rebut the statements made by my wife.
Flash forward, it has now been two months since I retained Wes, and am dropping his legal services, TODAY, after a frustrating phone call where he, once again, could not offer any solid guidance for legal questions that I had and actually mocked my financial status… Remember that emergency custody hearing I mentioned, where Wes was compensated to defend me as his client against the false statements made in an affidavit by my wife? Yeah, not so much.
I literally could have chosen to defend myself, not attend, and the results would have pretty much been the exact same. What did I pay you for Wes?!? From that hearing, and written into a Temporary Custody Court Order, my wife was granted 100 Physical & Legal Custody of our children until a future trial date could be scheduled; based on nothing more than an affidavit of false statements.
Apparently former clients of Wes Dodge have also aired their grievances online through reviews saying, “Our case has been going on almost a year and a half and ABSOLUTELY NOTHING has gotten accomplished”, “In two years he did very little. He wouldn’t return my calls for weeks then he would bill me for it.”, or even “…he will take your money and try to make you feel stupid”.
In Summary, after working with Wes for two months, I hold deep-seeded client concerns due to:
1) his inaction (how do you go to a custody hearing and win literally NOTHING for your client),
2) his frequent random side-of-the-mouth comments like “…well it seems that you’re having financial problems regardless” (you’re a lawyer Wes…not a poorly trained life-coach. Please keep your unhelpful opinions to yourself), and
3) his professional apathy and/or inability to take charge and guide you through the legal battlefield during one of the worst possible times in any person’s life (“I honestly can’t say when you’re going to have a (Divorce) trial scheduled” What?!?).
I would strongly recommend seeking family law representation elsewhere. I say that as a father, MBA, & Navy Veteran.
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03 Nov, 2021 by James
Wes is extremely knowledgeable in regards to divorce and family law. My divorce had a few interesting twists and turns along the way. Wes did a great job of compiling the information, giving scenarios that court would normally go by, advising me accordingly. He is very professional and puts the mind at ease.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Tarek
I really very lucky to deal with you Mr. Wesley s Dodge, you handle my case by very professional way,
I can't find words to thank you for taken care of my case like it's your won case. you was working very close with me till you close the case and given me the freedom and finished my divorce case, thank you again and again
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14 Jan, 2025 by James spears
The best!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Alan young
Worst time of my life. Their kindness and understanding makes it bearable. Highly recommend them. And I rarely say that. Very impressed.
Bad time but glad I met such nice people.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Becky anderson
After much thought I knew I had to file bankruptcy. I was nervous & did not know what to expect. Chris & Kate were so helpful & answered all of my questions. They walked me through the process. I highly recommend them.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Jeff u
Exceptional Legal Representation.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Abner torres
The best lawyer you can find in the state of nebraska i recommend him 100%
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25 Nov, 2024 by Ken wilson
Megan Halbur was my attorney. She was always very professional and very kind and understanding. She would take the time to listen. She was very empathetic and understanding. Never felt rushed around her. She always returned my phone calls and emails. I would definitely recommend her to anyone. She’s a kind of attorney you want on your side. Cause she fought for me. Thanks Megan .Sincerely. Ken Wilson
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05 Jan, 2025 by Greg hauer
As a local attorney, I refer all of my personal injury-related inquiries to Sibbernsen Law Firm, and I do so with full confidence. With decades of experience, their team consistently demonstrates professionalism, dedication, and a commitment to securing justice for their clients. From motor vehicle accidents to medical malpractice cases, they handle a wide range of personal injury matters with expertise and care. I've seen firsthand how much they value their clients, offering personal service and individualized attention to every case. If you're looking for experienced and compassionate personal injury attorneys in Omaha, I highly recommend Sibbernsen Law Firm!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Ryan morley
The experience with sibbersen law was top notch. From the 1st meeting to the end Andy made sure I knew all the updates and what was going on with the case. I would highly recommend Sibbersen law to anyone that needs help with a car accident.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Christy wells
I have trouble with this guardian because she doesn't wanna talk to her clients she does not wanna advocate for her clients and she does not respond her guardianship clients whatsoever
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05 Jan, 2025 by Greg hauer
As a local attorney, I refer all of my personal injury-related inquiries to Sibbernsen Law Firm, and I do so with full confidence. With decades of experience, their team consistently demonstrates professionalism, dedication, and a commitment to securing justice for their clients. From motor vehicle accidents to medical malpractice cases, they handle a wide range of personal injury matters with expertise and care. I've seen firsthand how much they value their clients, offering personal service and individualized attention to every case. If you're looking for experienced and compassionate personal injury attorneys in Omaha, I highly recommend Sibbernsen Law Firm!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Ryan morley
The experience with sibbersen law was top notch. From the 1st meeting to the end Andy made sure I knew all the updates and what was going on with the case. I would highly recommend Sibbersen law to anyone that needs help with a car accident.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Christy wells
I have trouble with this guardian because she doesn't wanna talk to her clients she does not wanna advocate for her clients and she does not respond her guardianship clients whatsoever
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31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
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05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
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31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
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05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
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31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
13 Nov, 2024 by Charlie loes
Bien servicio ,tengo otra preguta?
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14 Aug, 2024 by Nadja anderson
03 Jul, 2024 by Christopher bergmann
Hire someone to answer the phone or buy an answering machine thanks
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21 Sep, 2024 by Man dove
Good
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01 Jul, 2024 by Miriam grimaldo
This attorney restored my faith in attorneys. A car rammed into me and the driver told his insurance company that I was at fault the next day. Without a police report due to them no longer coming out to accidents, luckily I had a witness and mister Ekeh agreed to take my case. He went above and beyond for me every step of the way at the office and in conferences on the phone. Not to mention his kind, understanding and patient assistant Carrie. Overall Amazing, hardworking, honest and trustworthy team.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Nelson sermeno
John the best lawyer of accident cars is very nice person 10 of the 10
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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21 Jan, 2025 by Jeff u
Exceptional Legal Representation.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Abner torres
The best lawyer you can find in the state of nebraska i recommend him 100%
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25 Nov, 2024 by Ken wilson
Megan Halbur was my attorney. She was always very professional and very kind and understanding. She would take the time to listen. She was very empathetic and understanding. Never felt rushed around her. She always returned my phone calls and emails. I would definitely recommend her to anyone. She’s a kind of attorney you want on your side. Cause she fought for me. Thanks Megan .Sincerely. Ken Wilson
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05 Dec, 2024 by Damion sayers
Tim was very thorough, encouraging and never misleading with my case. He was honest with me the entire time, in which I value, and I truly respect the work he put into exposing the truth. I will use DLT in future, and encourage anyone looking, seek out Tim Anderson.. He’s invited to the cookout for sure! 👍🏾
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04 Dec, 2024 by Paula mccall-thiede
Timothy Anderson was my lawyer and he was definitely a big help in my case and with my situation changing.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Steven williams
I am writing to express my extreme gratitude for the amazing services provided by Dornan Law Office during my legal proceedings. The expertise and dedication exhibited by my lawyer, Tim Anderson, resulted in the best possible outcome for me, and I am supremely pleased with results. Tim Anderson is a remarkable representative. His professionalism and sincerity shone through every step of the way. He was not only knowledgeable and thorough but compassionate and attentive to my needs Tim's commitment to my case provided me with confidence and reassurance during a challenging time I wholeheartedly recommend Dornan Law Office, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Tim Anderson for his outstanding work.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Damion sayers
Tim was very thorough, encouraging and never misleading with my case. He was honest with me the entire time, in which I value, and I truly respect the work he put into exposing the truth. I will use DLT in future, and encourage anyone looking, seek out Tim Anderson.. He’s invited to the cookout for sure! 👍🏾
Read more
04 Dec, 2024 by Paula mccall-thiede
Timothy Anderson was my lawyer and he was definitely a big help in my case and with my situation changing.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Steven williams
I am writing to express my extreme gratitude for the amazing services provided by Dornan Law Office during my legal proceedings. The expertise and dedication exhibited by my lawyer, Tim Anderson, resulted in the best possible outcome for me, and I am supremely pleased with results. Tim Anderson is a remarkable representative. His professionalism and sincerity shone through every step of the way. He was not only knowledgeable and thorough but compassionate and attentive to my needs Tim's commitment to my case provided me with confidence and reassurance during a challenging time I wholeheartedly recommend Dornan Law Office, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Tim Anderson for his outstanding work.
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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.
