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25 Mar, 2024 by Jay yost
Jerry court hearings are public information. So you saying Unfortunately, your review does not present an accurate or fair picture of this firm is a dang lie because everything stated about your firm in the review calling you guys a circus and how Darren Pekny was embarrassed by a guy who doesn’t have a law degree and all your firm is filled with are money hungry jokes, is a very accurate statement and review and anyone can look it up if they wanted to. I believe it even stated you would try to lie to get people not to believe the review but unfortunately it’s the truth. I know for a fact your firm is more crooked than what was even said and unfortunately that information will eventually get out. Go ahead Jerry go have Darren tell the court about this like he did last time!!!!News flash Jerry the court won’t care just like they didn’t the last time! If I’m telling the truth about things nothing can happen to me and no one will care!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jerad yost
This circus is definitely not the place to go for an attorney especially if it’s Darren Pekny! If you’re looking to get a pair of big floppy shoes or a big red nose this is the place to go! Ethics???? Not in this tent! Morals????? Forget about it!!!!! Win the case for their clients????? Not happening!!!!!! Lying and Trying to ruin someone's life that doesn't deserve it???? YEP!!!!! They will do that! Being corrupt and having no ethics?????
That's their greatest trick!!!! I was not a client of this corrupt place but this firm lied and helped keep my daughter away from me when I didn't do anything I was blamed for. I got proof to show that. I’m not an attorney and I have done a better job in the courtroom than this clown named Darren! He tried to tell on me for things that I have said to him like what you are reading now, just because he knows he’s going to lose. He knows that no matter what the facts are the facts but will continue to lie just to get paid. Darren has no problem taking money from someone, knowing he won’t win a case against a guy who doesn’t have a law degree. If you want to laugh then Darren is your man because he is definitely one of the funniest jokes out there! If you want to be robbed of all your money this is your man as well! Don't forget your popcorn when you come to this circus! Darren seriously is a complete joke and you will lose a lot of money if you use this firm! They will reply to this to try to get people to not believe me but honestly if you retain this law firm you will be losing money so go find any other law firm out there! Here’s Darren at his best in the courtroom “well your honor I’m new to this case so” when in fact he’s been on the case for 6 months he just knew he looked dumb and then I put him in his place right in front of the judge! FACTS!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Ray mensen
Mr. Pekny represented me and was able to save me alot....very professional and i would recommend him
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jay yost
Jerry court hearings are public information. So you saying Unfortunately, your review does not present an accurate or fair picture of this firm is a dang lie because everything stated about your firm in the review calling you guys a circus and how Darren Pekny was embarrassed by a guy who doesn’t have a law degree and all your firm is filled with are money hungry jokes, is a very accurate statement and review and anyone can look it up if they wanted to. I believe it even stated you would try to lie to get people not to believe the review but unfortunately it’s the truth. I know for a fact your firm is more crooked than what was even said and unfortunately that information will eventually get out. Go ahead Jerry go have Darren tell the court about this like he did last time!!!!News flash Jerry the court won’t care just like they didn’t the last time! If I’m telling the truth about things nothing can happen to me and no one will care!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jerad yost
This circus is definitely not the place to go for an attorney especially if it’s Darren Pekny! If you’re looking to get a pair of big floppy shoes or a big red nose this is the place to go! Ethics???? Not in this tent! Morals????? Forget about it!!!!! Win the case for their clients????? Not happening!!!!!! Lying and Trying to ruin someone's life that doesn't deserve it???? YEP!!!!! They will do that! Being corrupt and having no ethics?????
That's their greatest trick!!!! I was not a client of this corrupt place but this firm lied and helped keep my daughter away from me when I didn't do anything I was blamed for. I got proof to show that. I’m not an attorney and I have done a better job in the courtroom than this clown named Darren! He tried to tell on me for things that I have said to him like what you are reading now, just because he knows he’s going to lose. He knows that no matter what the facts are the facts but will continue to lie just to get paid. Darren has no problem taking money from someone, knowing he won’t win a case against a guy who doesn’t have a law degree. If you want to laugh then Darren is your man because he is definitely one of the funniest jokes out there! If you want to be robbed of all your money this is your man as well! Don't forget your popcorn when you come to this circus! Darren seriously is a complete joke and you will lose a lot of money if you use this firm! They will reply to this to try to get people to not believe me but honestly if you retain this law firm you will be losing money so go find any other law firm out there! Here’s Darren at his best in the courtroom “well your honor I’m new to this case so” when in fact he’s been on the case for 6 months he just knew he looked dumb and then I put him in his place right in front of the judge! FACTS!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Ray mensen
Mr. Pekny represented me and was able to save me alot....very professional and i would recommend him
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jay yost
Jerry court hearings are public information. So you saying Unfortunately, your review does not present an accurate or fair picture of this firm is a dang lie because everything stated about your firm in the review calling you guys a circus and how Darren Pekny was embarrassed by a guy who doesn’t have a law degree and all your firm is filled with are money hungry jokes, is a very accurate statement and review and anyone can look it up if they wanted to. I believe it even stated you would try to lie to get people not to believe the review but unfortunately it’s the truth. I know for a fact your firm is more crooked than what was even said and unfortunately that information will eventually get out. Go ahead Jerry go have Darren tell the court about this like he did last time!!!!News flash Jerry the court won’t care just like they didn’t the last time! If I’m telling the truth about things nothing can happen to me and no one will care!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jerad yost
This circus is definitely not the place to go for an attorney especially if it’s Darren Pekny! If you’re looking to get a pair of big floppy shoes or a big red nose this is the place to go! Ethics???? Not in this tent! Morals????? Forget about it!!!!! Win the case for their clients????? Not happening!!!!!! Lying and Trying to ruin someone's life that doesn't deserve it???? YEP!!!!! They will do that! Being corrupt and having no ethics?????
That's their greatest trick!!!! I was not a client of this corrupt place but this firm lied and helped keep my daughter away from me when I didn't do anything I was blamed for. I got proof to show that. I’m not an attorney and I have done a better job in the courtroom than this clown named Darren! He tried to tell on me for things that I have said to him like what you are reading now, just because he knows he’s going to lose. He knows that no matter what the facts are the facts but will continue to lie just to get paid. Darren has no problem taking money from someone, knowing he won’t win a case against a guy who doesn’t have a law degree. If you want to laugh then Darren is your man because he is definitely one of the funniest jokes out there! If you want to be robbed of all your money this is your man as well! Don't forget your popcorn when you come to this circus! Darren seriously is a complete joke and you will lose a lot of money if you use this firm! They will reply to this to try to get people to not believe me but honestly if you retain this law firm you will be losing money so go find any other law firm out there! Here’s Darren at his best in the courtroom “well your honor I’m new to this case so” when in fact he’s been on the case for 6 months he just knew he looked dumb and then I put him in his place right in front of the judge! FACTS!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Ray mensen
Mr. Pekny represented me and was able to save me alot....very professional and i would recommend him
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jay yost
Jerry court hearings are public information. So you saying Unfortunately, your review does not present an accurate or fair picture of this firm is a dang lie because everything stated about your firm in the review calling you guys a circus and how Darren Pekny was embarrassed by a guy who doesn’t have a law degree and all your firm is filled with are money hungry jokes, is a very accurate statement and review and anyone can look it up if they wanted to. I believe it even stated you would try to lie to get people not to believe the review but unfortunately it’s the truth. I know for a fact your firm is more crooked than what was even said and unfortunately that information will eventually get out. Go ahead Jerry go have Darren tell the court about this like he did last time!!!!News flash Jerry the court won’t care just like they didn’t the last time! If I’m telling the truth about things nothing can happen to me and no one will care!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jerad yost
This circus is definitely not the place to go for an attorney especially if it’s Darren Pekny! If you’re looking to get a pair of big floppy shoes or a big red nose this is the place to go! Ethics???? Not in this tent! Morals????? Forget about it!!!!! Win the case for their clients????? Not happening!!!!!! Lying and Trying to ruin someone's life that doesn't deserve it???? YEP!!!!! They will do that! Being corrupt and having no ethics?????
That's their greatest trick!!!! I was not a client of this corrupt place but this firm lied and helped keep my daughter away from me when I didn't do anything I was blamed for. I got proof to show that. I’m not an attorney and I have done a better job in the courtroom than this clown named Darren! He tried to tell on me for things that I have said to him like what you are reading now, just because he knows he’s going to lose. He knows that no matter what the facts are the facts but will continue to lie just to get paid. Darren has no problem taking money from someone, knowing he won’t win a case against a guy who doesn’t have a law degree. If you want to laugh then Darren is your man because he is definitely one of the funniest jokes out there! If you want to be robbed of all your money this is your man as well! Don't forget your popcorn when you come to this circus! Darren seriously is a complete joke and you will lose a lot of money if you use this firm! They will reply to this to try to get people to not believe me but honestly if you retain this law firm you will be losing money so go find any other law firm out there! Here’s Darren at his best in the courtroom “well your honor I’m new to this case so” when in fact he’s been on the case for 6 months he just knew he looked dumb and then I put him in his place right in front of the judge! FACTS!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Ray mensen
Mr. Pekny represented me and was able to save me alot....very professional and i would recommend him
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jay yost
Jerry court hearings are public information. So you saying Unfortunately, your review does not present an accurate or fair picture of this firm is a dang lie because everything stated about your firm in the review calling you guys a circus and how Darren Pekny was embarrassed by a guy who doesn’t have a law degree and all your firm is filled with are money hungry jokes, is a very accurate statement and review and anyone can look it up if they wanted to. I believe it even stated you would try to lie to get people not to believe the review but unfortunately it’s the truth. I know for a fact your firm is more crooked than what was even said and unfortunately that information will eventually get out. Go ahead Jerry go have Darren tell the court about this like he did last time!!!!News flash Jerry the court won’t care just like they didn’t the last time! If I’m telling the truth about things nothing can happen to me and no one will care!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jerad yost
This circus is definitely not the place to go for an attorney especially if it’s Darren Pekny! If you’re looking to get a pair of big floppy shoes or a big red nose this is the place to go! Ethics???? Not in this tent! Morals????? Forget about it!!!!! Win the case for their clients????? Not happening!!!!!! Lying and Trying to ruin someone's life that doesn't deserve it???? YEP!!!!! They will do that! Being corrupt and having no ethics?????
That's their greatest trick!!!! I was not a client of this corrupt place but this firm lied and helped keep my daughter away from me when I didn't do anything I was blamed for. I got proof to show that. I’m not an attorney and I have done a better job in the courtroom than this clown named Darren! He tried to tell on me for things that I have said to him like what you are reading now, just because he knows he’s going to lose. He knows that no matter what the facts are the facts but will continue to lie just to get paid. Darren has no problem taking money from someone, knowing he won’t win a case against a guy who doesn’t have a law degree. If you want to laugh then Darren is your man because he is definitely one of the funniest jokes out there! If you want to be robbed of all your money this is your man as well! Don't forget your popcorn when you come to this circus! Darren seriously is a complete joke and you will lose a lot of money if you use this firm! They will reply to this to try to get people to not believe me but honestly if you retain this law firm you will be losing money so go find any other law firm out there! Here’s Darren at his best in the courtroom “well your honor I’m new to this case so” when in fact he’s been on the case for 6 months he just knew he looked dumb and then I put him in his place right in front of the judge! FACTS!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Ray mensen
Mr. Pekny represented me and was able to save me alot....very professional and i would recommend him
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jay yost
Jerry court hearings are public information. So you saying Unfortunately, your review does not present an accurate or fair picture of this firm is a dang lie because everything stated about your firm in the review calling you guys a circus and how Darren Pekny was embarrassed by a guy who doesn’t have a law degree and all your firm is filled with are money hungry jokes, is a very accurate statement and review and anyone can look it up if they wanted to. I believe it even stated you would try to lie to get people not to believe the review but unfortunately it’s the truth. I know for a fact your firm is more crooked than what was even said and unfortunately that information will eventually get out. Go ahead Jerry go have Darren tell the court about this like he did last time!!!!News flash Jerry the court won’t care just like they didn’t the last time! If I’m telling the truth about things nothing can happen to me and no one will care!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Jerad yost
This circus is definitely not the place to go for an attorney especially if it’s Darren Pekny! If you’re looking to get a pair of big floppy shoes or a big red nose this is the place to go! Ethics???? Not in this tent! Morals????? Forget about it!!!!! Win the case for their clients????? Not happening!!!!!! Lying and Trying to ruin someone's life that doesn't deserve it???? YEP!!!!! They will do that! Being corrupt and having no ethics?????
That's their greatest trick!!!! I was not a client of this corrupt place but this firm lied and helped keep my daughter away from me when I didn't do anything I was blamed for. I got proof to show that. I’m not an attorney and I have done a better job in the courtroom than this clown named Darren! He tried to tell on me for things that I have said to him like what you are reading now, just because he knows he’s going to lose. He knows that no matter what the facts are the facts but will continue to lie just to get paid. Darren has no problem taking money from someone, knowing he won’t win a case against a guy who doesn’t have a law degree. If you want to laugh then Darren is your man because he is definitely one of the funniest jokes out there! If you want to be robbed of all your money this is your man as well! Don't forget your popcorn when you come to this circus! Darren seriously is a complete joke and you will lose a lot of money if you use this firm! They will reply to this to try to get people to not believe me but honestly if you retain this law firm you will be losing money so go find any other law firm out there! Here’s Darren at his best in the courtroom “well your honor I’m new to this case so” when in fact he’s been on the case for 6 months he just knew he looked dumb and then I put him in his place right in front of the judge! FACTS!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Ray mensen
Mr. Pekny represented me and was able to save me alot....very professional and i would recommend him
Read more
04 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
From looking at 9 years, my sentence was reduced to a few months of probation. He is super patient. He takes his time to explain everything. Makes you feel calm and reassured. If you are looking for a criminal lawyer don’t waste any more time and go to Robert Black. EXCELLENT EXCELLENT EXCELLENT lawyer. Highly recommend.
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12 Nov, 2023 by Laura thompson
If I could give him zero stars, I would.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
He withdrew our intervention without telling us. He should have called us before he did that!!!! Waste of money for nothing
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15 Jan, 2021 by Akrielz “akrielzgarage” garage
Do not recommend!
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01 Mar, 2020 by Okk hik
Best lawyer in Omaha. Helped with the case a lot and help ful Kasaby
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22 Aug, 2019 by Alicia
They attorney was completely hands on with our case. Her updates were always very detailed orientated by email. She would call the day prior of any court dates as a courtesy reminder. She completed the case in a very timely manner, I highly recommend her.
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12 Nov, 2023 by Laura thompson
If I could give him zero stars, I would.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
He withdrew our intervention without telling us. He should have called us before he did that!!!! Waste of money for nothing
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23 Sep, 2019 by Steven henry
12 Nov, 2023 by Laura thompson
If I could give him zero stars, I would.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
He withdrew our intervention without telling us. He should have called us before he did that!!!! Waste of money for nothing
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23 Sep, 2019 by Steven henry
12 Nov, 2023 by Laura thompson
If I could give him zero stars, I would.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
He withdrew our intervention without telling us. He should have called us before he did that!!!! Waste of money for nothing
Read more
23 Sep, 2019 by Steven henry
12 Nov, 2023 by Laura thompson
If I could give him zero stars, I would.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
He withdrew our intervention without telling us. He should have called us before he did that!!!! Waste of money for nothing
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23 Sep, 2019 by Steven henry
14 Jul, 2021 by Lindsey tysor
Jessica P Douglas was a terrible lawyer. Douglas was rude and presumptuous at our initial meeting. Miss Douglas arrogantly told me of how she had seen my criminal history when I didn’t actually have any prior charges. Miss Douglas was impossible to get ahold of on the telephone I called her 2 or 3 times a day for 3 months and in that time I received 1 sixty second phone call. Miss Douglas requested a continuance on my case without informing me that she was doing so or that doing so would ensure my stay in jail an additional month and a half. She failed to request a bond review or reduction hearing on my behalf. After leaving me in Douglas county for 3 months she failed to even get a slight reduction in the severity of my charges. I am now a convicted felon and Miss Douglas continued to insist that I was not complying with my probation when I was sentenced to time served with no continued monitoring. Thank you miss Douglas for assisting me on my decent homeless felon. You’re a peach!
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02 Jun, 2020 by Laila land
I highly recommend Jessica Douglas...very professional,attentive,caring,and fair....she believe in her clients and will fight for you. She know her job and does it well. She helped me with grandchildren placed with family.
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12 Nov, 2019 by Crystal baker
Highly recommend her! Absolute bull dog in the court room! We’ve retained her and had her represent us and our family in several different matter and she has never let us down! She will fight tooth and nail to make Shur you get the absolute best outcome possible, she’s had several cases my husband has been charged with over the years dismissed! With Jessica there is no walking in and takeing a plea deal, she will get you the best results possible! She is worth every red cent !
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30 Oct, 2023 by Sammi c
Took two weeks to call me only to do a long phone interview (like an hour) saying if they’re interested in my case they will let me know and then sent a letter of denial a week later. No reason given other than “they are so busy” yada yada. Was referred by CSE. The whole reason for the situation in the first place. Was pretty much a waste of time
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07 May, 2023 by Lindsay roland
18 Apr, 2023 by Patience x'3
28 Aug, 2024 by Marie johnson
I legit have court in the morning and I am not prepared. I asked my attorney (MARK BESTUL) to get a continuance and that I couldnt miss work for 90days and he emphatically said no! He said the judge wouldn't approve it as the initial order would be "halfway into the order." Ummm, what the hell does that even mean IF they can be granted from 1 year to 5? Nevermind my abuser (yes, it's DV) was granted a continuance to 1) LEAVE THE COUNTRY. Then, they 2) gave me the wrong address to the courthouse. Then, 3) it was reset for lack of time last week. I asked Mark this last week as getting all the necessary documents, etc would take some time AND I did not want to lose my job. I called and asked what I could do to escalate it for his boss to speak with him and was told I could file a grievance. Yes, a grievance that WOULD take weeks/months to resolve. I have court in the morning, less-than 1 weeks after the last court appearance that was reset by the judge.
This is ridiculous. This is why people handle things their own way as doing it the "right/preferred" way gets you wholly ignored and minimized. I will end up dead and it'll be my fault that I didn't do what exactly? Report, file, comply??? He is a joke and this agency is a bigger joke. 😔
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13 Jul, 2024 by Antelope creek livestock
This is supposed to be an organization that helps those who cannot help themselves in a tricky, confusing legal system. They know their clients are likely to not have computers (why are their documents barely fillable on a phone??), and they know their clients likely do not have bank accounts (why TF do they ask for a debit card???), and they know their clients have likely been screwed over by the legal system time and again (why do they make it difficult to complete a process like getting a d*mn ID????).
If I could leave zero stars I would. Do your job, Legal Aid of Nebraska. Do your job.
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24 May, 2024 by Samantha pierson
Great people
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21 Aug, 2024 by Colin wattonville
If you are looking for a lawyer that takes months to respond, Zach is your guy. It sometimes seemed like the only way to get him to respond was to CC the officer manager on emails so as to somewhat hold him accountable.
Also, the law firm appears to have blocked my email addresses so I am no longer able to get in contact with my lawyer or anyone else in the office whatsoever. I still need the lawyer I hired to respond to me and update the contact information for a trademark filing. Horrible service.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Whitney lemon
02 Apr, 2024 by Alessandra c diem
eventhough kristina did a good job bring me to the audience, I still not able to communicate with my daugher. she still have not got back to me on when am I going to be able to communicate with and visit my daugher , as I have already gone to the audience on april 4th, 2024.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Colin wattonville
If you are looking for a lawyer that takes months to respond, Zach is your guy. It sometimes seemed like the only way to get him to respond was to CC the officer manager on emails so as to somewhat hold him accountable.
Also, the law firm appears to have blocked my email addresses so I am no longer able to get in contact with my lawyer or anyone else in the office whatsoever. I still need the lawyer I hired to respond to me and update the contact information for a trademark filing. Horrible service.
Read more
20 Jul, 2024 by Whitney lemon
02 Apr, 2024 by Alessandra c diem
eventhough kristina did a good job bring me to the audience, I still not able to communicate with my daugher. she still have not got back to me on when am I going to be able to communicate with and visit my daugher , as I have already gone to the audience on april 4th, 2024.
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15 Jan, 2021 by Akrielz “akrielzgarage” garage
Do not recommend!
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01 Mar, 2020 by Okk hik
Best lawyer in Omaha. Helped with the case a lot and help ful Kasaby
Read more
15 Jan, 2021 by Akrielz “akrielzgarage” garage
Do not recommend!
Read more
01 Mar, 2020 by Okk hik
Best lawyer in Omaha. Helped with the case a lot and help ful Kasaby
Read more
15 Jan, 2021 by Akrielz “akrielzgarage” garage
Do not recommend!
Read more
01 Mar, 2020 by Okk hik
Best lawyer in Omaha. Helped with the case a lot and help ful Kasaby
Read more
03 Jun, 2021 by Worldwide crossbar
I would give negative points if it is possible.
Will update in a few weeks.
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25 Jul, 2018 by Maulik shah
Very bad experience. No communication from attorney- Jessica Feinstein and her staff, even though she knew the urgency of the case very well. My case got delayed and they did not care about filing my case on time. Do not recommend this firm for your urgent immigration need. This is a big firm and customer is just a number. Find an attorney, that will give your case personal attention and keep you informed all along the way. I will give this no star in review, if I can.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Tj elston
08 Jul, 2024 by Jack soukup
08 Jul, 2024 by Alex riley
08 Jul, 2024 by Eric magnuson
08 Jul, 2024 by Mark stover
08 Jul, 2024 by Tristan duin
08 Jul, 2024 by Alison clark
08 Jul, 2024 by Jack soukup
08 Jul, 2024 by Alex riley
08 Jul, 2024 by Eric magnuson
08 Jul, 2024 by Mark stover
08 Jul, 2024 by Tristan duin
08 Jul, 2024 by Alison clark
08 Jul, 2024 by Jack soukup
08 Jul, 2024 by Alex riley
08 Jul, 2024 by Eric magnuson
08 Jul, 2024 by Mark stover
08 Jul, 2024 by Tristan duin
08 Jul, 2024 by Alison clark
08 Jul, 2024 by Jack soukup
08 Jul, 2024 by Alex riley
08 Jul, 2024 by Eric magnuson
08 Jul, 2024 by Mark stover
08 Jul, 2024 by Tristan duin
08 Jul, 2024 by Alison clark
08 Jul, 2024 by Jack soukup
08 Jul, 2024 by Alex riley
08 Jul, 2024 by Eric magnuson
Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
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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:
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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.
