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4.9
42 Reviews
25 Jul, 2024 by Jordan anderson
We had a great experience with Amicus Legal. They really cared about us and answered all the questions I thought might have been dumb. They took the time to listen to our concerns and fight for the best settlement with the insurance company. If you need a car accident lawyer, I recommend their services.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Dan decker
Title: Exceptional Personal Injury Lawyer with an Outstanding Team
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the exceptional service provided by John-Paul Serrao's personal injury law firm and their amazing staff. From the moment I walked through their doors seeking assistance after my accident, I was met with professionalism, compassion, and expertise.
First and foremost, the John-Paul Serrao exhibited unparalleled dedication to my well-being and legal success. They took the time to thoroughly understand the intricacies of my situation, patiently listened to my concerns, and meticulously outlined the steps we would take together. Their depth of knowledge and experience in personal injury law was evident in every interaction, instilling in me a sense of confidence and trust that I was in capable hands.
Moreover, what truly sets Amicus Legal Group apart is their remarkable team. The staff members consistently went above and beyond to ensure that my needs were met and my questions were answered promptly. Their professionalism and empathy created a supportive environment that eased the stress of navigating the legal process. Whether it was scheduling appointments, providing updates on my case, or simply offering words of encouragement, each member of the team played an integral role in my journey toward recovery.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of John-Paul Serrao and his outstanding staff, I received a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Not only did they secure the compensation I deserved, but they also provided invaluable support every step of the way. I cannot recommend them highly enough to anyone in need of legal representation for personal injury matters. If you're seeking dedicated professionals who genuinely care about your well-being, look no further than John-Paul Serrao.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Carolyn ratcliff
They are excellent! We used them for a work-related lawsuit years ago! We actually won it!!!
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17 Jan, 2025 by D1ws
For the people looking for legal help, Adam will show up for you. He represented me for an affordable price. My case took over a year to settle and he never charged me past our agreement. I was facing years in prison and he fought and got me probation. Now we did have disagreements, but he was always professional. I was ready to take a deal for jail time and he got upset because I didn’t trust him. When he got me probation instead, I felt like an idiot for not trusting him. He drove up the hill over an hour regardless of traffic and had his associate show up whenever he was in court. His other friend/associate is also a top tier individual. He told me when I first caught my case that the case was weak against me and that the lowest I could ask for was probation. Sure enough he was right. Sometimes you have to take the best deal instead of taking a risk fighting for a win. But I’m a free man with no jail or prison time at all. Adam also got my probation fee waved as well. On top of that after our contract was completed, he was willing to help me with probation paperwork and things like that. He's also easy to communicate with. Out of the near 2 years of representing me, we’ve never had any substantial issues. Some attorneys rely on personal relationships with the prosecution to get favorable outcomes, Adam simply did the work. He negotiated for the best deal. I told him I didn’t want to do any time. He said he will fight for me to the best of his ability and that’s what he did. Don’t waste your money on someone that won’t show up or take your calls. Adam will show up and if he’s in court and the court officer won’t let him answer your call, he’ll text you fast. Don’t take your chances with a public pretender either. Sorry for the length, but if you’ve made it this far, I hope you make the right choice and hire Adam with inland empire criminal defense.
I hired Adam around February 2023, and we got an amazing deal in October 2024. Don’t play with your life/freedom. Call him
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11 Jan, 2025 by Sagar ghosh
Very trustworthy
Genuine law firm
Will definitely recommend.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Napoleon dela cruz
Neil was a great lawyer and handled our case professionally. He was on top of it.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Marlene weis
Erik Hammett is smart and honest and kind.
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20 Apr, 2019 by Troy kump
Working with Erik has been nothing short of a miracle. Erik stepped into my case with great detail and urgency. He was extremely professional and detailed. Going above and beyond to help me out is a complete understatement. Erik literally helped save my life. If your searching for representation and see this review, stop your search and stick with Erik, you'll be glad you did.
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27 May, 2018 by Mrs abimbola egedegbe
I am not easily impressed. Very known to be picky at and by things. I gladly share my experience with attorney Hammett. He has a “rare” ingredient that most attorney’s don’t have. HE CARES ABOUT HIS CLIENTS. That makes a true differences in the quality of service rendered. I’d recommend him to anyone in need of a criminal attorney. He explains the seriousness of your situation. Tells you your options and the strategies he plans to take if you are sentenced. Communication throughout the entire process was only informational necessary contact. He’s very meticulously, professional has the aggression and dedication needed to get your desired verdict and reduction/reduce. I was blessed, grateful to have Attorney Hammett to represent me and "impressed" by his knowledge of the law. Thank you Attorney Hammett.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Archie bermudo
The team will help and explain each questions you want to be answered. Very Good Job c",)
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05 Dec, 2024 by Nukonuka atu
John Murray is a great defense attorney, he's prompt, direct and honest in his work. He helped resolve my situation at Rancho Cucamonga Courthouse. Definitely an highly recommend attorney.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Jaime higareda
Criminal Defense Attorney John Murray has been phenomenal representing me at the Pomona Courthouse. He made sure to consistently communicate any updates about my case and always responded to any questions I had in a quick, knowledgeable, and professional manner. Criminal Defense Attorney John Murray won my DMV hearing and helped me get back my drivers license, while ensuring I never lost my driving privileges in the interim. I would highly recommend Criminal Defense Attorney John Murray to anyone.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Helen oce
I was in a very sensitive problem with my landlord. I called the Torres Angulo Law Group, I received attentive and fast results,100% satisfied with the services I received. I am very grateful. Thanks Andrea and Lupe. 👍👌
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06 May, 2024 by Eric allen
05.05.2024
(60) day's ago we were placed into a position to evict our tenants for breaking the terms and conditions of their month to month tenancy rental agreement. We sought out Residencial Attorney Ms. Torres to help us with this process. We paid her consultation fee and within the quality hour we spent with her; she produced a strategically well prepared plan.
She answered our questions thoroughly, professionally and was most pleasant in explaining all avenues regarding the process from a smooth eviction within a timely manner to potentially an uncooperative tenant who we'd take to court, file eviction credit reporting and taking to small claims court for damages to our unit if applicable.
We left the office confident with the Eviction Letter in hand and served the tenants the very same day.
Ms. Torres even prepared an immediate "Walk-Thru" document allowing us to inspect the condition of the unit 48 hours after the serving.
At that point; it was no longer necessary for any further contact with the tenants. The few times the tenants required contact; they were forced to contact Ms. Torres who handled the inquiries and concluded by asking the tenants each time; "lets talk about your vacancy arrangements and handing over your keys to the unit".
I know every scenario is different, but;
We collected our final rent, the tenants were allowed the additional month rent free for vacancy purposes and exactly 60 days later; the tenants were successfully EVICTED.
Thank You Ms. Torres.
My family and I highly recommend you and your legal team.
The ALLEN'S
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02 Apr, 2024 by Alex cruz
08 Jan, 2021 by Kimberlee
I had a night and day experience with Mr. Fey as my attorney compared to my previous one. Mr. Fey is upfront, honest, transparent (there's no hidden fees or surprises), he stays in frequent contact, and is easy to get a hold of. Mr. Fey arrived ready to go at my child custody hearings, it was he himself who answered my emails/phone calls, and handled my case like the pro he is. He was ON IT and I truly couldn't have asked for a better or more professional attorney than him. His diligence, quick thinking, and the way he communicated my case to the judge had a large positive impact on the outcome of it- for that I'm forever grateful. If you hire Mr. Fey, know that you'll be in good hands with an attorney who genuinely cares about his clients.
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20 Dec, 2018 by Tod
For many years I was tortured and threatened by an exwife who never let me bond with my daughter for many years . It was through the help of Michael Fey that my relationship was transformed forever for the better between my daughter and I. I cried tears of joy because now I got to be the father for my daughter I never got to be before. He is and outstanding attorney he changed my life and he can change yours too.
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04 Oct, 2018 by Irene and michael kyes
I am writing on behalf of my husband and myself. Mr. Fey helped and supported us through the entire process. He was very willing to explain everything to us as this was our first encounter with the process. My husband was diagnosed schizoaffective disorder and his need for a good lawyer was dire. We were blessed to find Mr. Fey. He was our advocate and fought for us know my husband was not able to advocate for himself. Our DUI was reduced to a misdomeaner and he has completed all requirements, aside from his probation. We are deeply thankful for Mr. Fey. He will even remind you of any upcoming events, or documentation deadlines. He is a godsend.
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11 Nov, 2016 by Valerie morley
He kept me from getting nervous and helped me prior to going in to the court room.
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28 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
He helped us with our chapter 7 banckruptcy a couple years ago and to this day any related issues to that he has been a quick response in helping clear any discripency
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05 Sep, 2015 by Gerald
Mr Cassis represented me at my disability hearing on behalf of PREMIER DISABILITY. I felt that he did a GREAT job and was very professional, nice and well prepared.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Alex cruz
08 Jul, 2024 by Isac gamez
Andrea’s dedication, expertise, and unwavering support were invaluable during what was undoubtedly a challenging time for me.
Her professionalism and commitment to upholding justice were evident at every stage of the process, and I am immensely grateful for your tireless efforts on my behalf.
Her passion for defending clients' rights is truly commendable, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had her by my side.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kimberly solares
Highly recommend this attorney to defend your tenant rights! Andrea is knowledgeable, professional, attentive & explains the legal processes very well. She is fully transparent, reasonably priced & does not make promises she can’t keep.
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17 Jan, 2025 by D1ws
For the people looking for legal help, Adam will show up for you. He represented me for an affordable price. My case took over a year to settle and he never charged me past our agreement. I was facing years in prison and he fought and got me probation. Now we did have disagreements, but he was always professional. I was ready to take a deal for jail time and he got upset because I didn’t trust him. When he got me probation instead, I felt like an idiot for not trusting him. He drove up the hill over an hour regardless of traffic and had his associate show up whenever he was in court. His other friend/associate is also a top tier individual. He told me when I first caught my case that the case was weak against me and that the lowest I could ask for was probation. Sure enough he was right. Sometimes you have to take the best deal instead of taking a risk fighting for a win. But I’m a free man with no jail or prison time at all. Adam also got my probation fee waved as well. On top of that after our contract was completed, he was willing to help me with probation paperwork and things like that. He's also easy to communicate with. Out of the near 2 years of representing me, we’ve never had any substantial issues. Some attorneys rely on personal relationships with the prosecution to get favorable outcomes, Adam simply did the work. He negotiated for the best deal. I told him I didn’t want to do any time. He said he will fight for me to the best of his ability and that’s what he did. Don’t waste your money on someone that won’t show up or take your calls. Adam will show up and if he’s in court and the court officer won’t let him answer your call, he’ll text you fast. Don’t take your chances with a public pretender either. Sorry for the length, but if you’ve made it this far, I hope you make the right choice and hire Adam with inland empire criminal defense.
I hired Adam around February 2023, and we got an amazing deal in October 2024. Don’t play with your life/freedom. Call him
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11 Jan, 2025 by Sagar ghosh
Very trustworthy
Genuine law firm
Will definitely recommend.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Napoleon dela cruz
Neil was a great lawyer and handled our case professionally. He was on top of it.
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12 May, 2024 by H l sexton
05 May, 2024 by Trevor coffey
04 May, 2024 by Samuel faulkner
17 Jan, 2025 by D1ws
For the people looking for legal help, Adam will show up for you. He represented me for an affordable price. My case took over a year to settle and he never charged me past our agreement. I was facing years in prison and he fought and got me probation. Now we did have disagreements, but he was always professional. I was ready to take a deal for jail time and he got upset because I didn’t trust him. When he got me probation instead, I felt like an idiot for not trusting him. He drove up the hill over an hour regardless of traffic and had his associate show up whenever he was in court. His other friend/associate is also a top tier individual. He told me when I first caught my case that the case was weak against me and that the lowest I could ask for was probation. Sure enough he was right. Sometimes you have to take the best deal instead of taking a risk fighting for a win. But I’m a free man with no jail or prison time at all. Adam also got my probation fee waved as well. On top of that after our contract was completed, he was willing to help me with probation paperwork and things like that. He's also easy to communicate with. Out of the near 2 years of representing me, we’ve never had any substantial issues. Some attorneys rely on personal relationships with the prosecution to get favorable outcomes, Adam simply did the work. He negotiated for the best deal. I told him I didn’t want to do any time. He said he will fight for me to the best of his ability and that’s what he did. Don’t waste your money on someone that won’t show up or take your calls. Adam will show up and if he’s in court and the court officer won’t let him answer your call, he’ll text you fast. Don’t take your chances with a public pretender either. Sorry for the length, but if you’ve made it this far, I hope you make the right choice and hire Adam with inland empire criminal defense.
I hired Adam around February 2023, and we got an amazing deal in October 2024. Don’t play with your life/freedom. Call him
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Sagar ghosh
Very trustworthy
Genuine law firm
Will definitely recommend.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Napoleon dela cruz
Neil was a great lawyer and handled our case professionally. He was on top of it.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Sharon arellano
My experience with this firm has been amazing! Everybody is extremely professional and helpful! I tried to negotiate this case on my own and the other side drug it out for six months and offered me a horrible settlement. Luckily, I found this firm and they were able to negotiate an amazing settlement on my behalf. My only regret is that I didn’t have them represent me from the beginning to save me months of stress, frustration, and grief.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Emily rugg
Hired them after an awful car accident and I received some of the best care and support I could have asked for. They helped me secure a settlement for my suffering and were always willing to answer any questions I had. If you are looking for a lawyer, please go with Montgomery Steele, I could not recommend them enough.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Chuck johnson
I’m a retired Marine Master Sergeant with 6 deployments and a retired law enforcement officer having served as a SWAT officer, narcotics officer and a Detective on a regional gang task force! I’ve never experienced anything like I did on April 24th, 2024. While walking my Westie we were mauled by a 100 pound mastiff! Training and experience saved both of our lives! I asked a fellow Marine/ now family lawyer and he recommended I call Montgomery Steele! Absolutely the best call I’ve ever made! They treated me with so much respect and kindness! They kept me informed via text and email! Words can not express how I feel! Very professional and very personable! If you have a personal injury call Montgomery Steele! You will be happy you did! I am 😊
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08 Jul, 2024 by Alex cruz
08 Jul, 2024 by Isac gamez
Andrea’s dedication, expertise, and unwavering support were invaluable during what was undoubtedly a challenging time for me.
Her professionalism and commitment to upholding justice were evident at every stage of the process, and I am immensely grateful for your tireless efforts on my behalf.
Her passion for defending clients' rights is truly commendable, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had her by my side.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Kimberly solares
Highly recommend this attorney to defend your tenant rights! Andrea is knowledgeable, professional, attentive & explains the legal processes very well. She is fully transparent, reasonably priced & does not make promises she can’t keep.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by D1ws
For the people looking for legal help, Adam will show up for you. He represented me for an affordable price. My case took over a year to settle and he never charged me past our agreement. I was facing years in prison and he fought and got me probation. Now we did have disagreements, but he was always professional. I was ready to take a deal for jail time and he got upset because I didn’t trust him. When he got me probation instead, I felt like an idiot for not trusting him. He drove up the hill over an hour regardless of traffic and had his associate show up whenever he was in court. His other friend/associate is also a top tier individual. He told me when I first caught my case that the case was weak against me and that the lowest I could ask for was probation. Sure enough he was right. Sometimes you have to take the best deal instead of taking a risk fighting for a win. But I’m a free man with no jail or prison time at all. Adam also got my probation fee waved as well. On top of that after our contract was completed, he was willing to help me with probation paperwork and things like that. He's also easy to communicate with. Out of the near 2 years of representing me, we’ve never had any substantial issues. Some attorneys rely on personal relationships with the prosecution to get favorable outcomes, Adam simply did the work. He negotiated for the best deal. I told him I didn’t want to do any time. He said he will fight for me to the best of his ability and that’s what he did. Don’t waste your money on someone that won’t show up or take your calls. Adam will show up and if he’s in court and the court officer won’t let him answer your call, he’ll text you fast. Don’t take your chances with a public pretender either. Sorry for the length, but if you’ve made it this far, I hope you make the right choice and hire Adam with inland empire criminal defense.
I hired Adam around February 2023, and we got an amazing deal in October 2024. Don’t play with your life/freedom. Call him
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Sagar ghosh
Very trustworthy
Genuine law firm
Will definitely recommend.
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Napoleon dela cruz
Neil was a great lawyer and handled our case professionally. He was on top of it.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Jordan anderson
We had a great experience with Amicus Legal. They really cared about us and answered all the questions I thought might have been dumb. They took the time to listen to our concerns and fight for the best settlement with the insurance company. If you need a car accident lawyer, I recommend their services.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jay rod
Thank you so much to John Paul and Amicus Legal Team for helping me with my accident case, making it easy and simple to understand. Recommended to anyone looking for a amazing legal firm!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Alex kim
My wife and I were referred to JP who is a lawyer at Amicus Legal Group. He helped us through our case and was very thorough and genuinely cared for us and even our family. Coleen who also works there is helpful and is always nice! A year has passed and I still ask JP for advice and he is always willing to help and still remembers us and the family he didn't even meet. I assure you AMICUS LEGAL GEOUP will always adopt your utmost interest or concern!
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06 Jan, 2025 by Archie bermudo
The team will help and explain each questions you want to be answered. Very Good Job c",)
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05 Dec, 2024 by Nukonuka atu
John Murray is a great defense attorney, he's prompt, direct and honest in his work. He helped resolve my situation at Rancho Cucamonga Courthouse. Definitely an highly recommend attorney.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Jaime higareda
Criminal Defense Attorney John Murray has been phenomenal representing me at the Pomona Courthouse. He made sure to consistently communicate any updates about my case and always responded to any questions I had in a quick, knowledgeable, and professional manner. Criminal Defense Attorney John Murray won my DMV hearing and helped me get back my drivers license, while ensuring I never lost my driving privileges in the interim. I would highly recommend Criminal Defense Attorney John Murray to anyone.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Got what I wanted with custody etc. communication wasn’t that great. Wasn’t explained what fees covered .
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02 Apr, 2024 by Tasha
Thomas has my greatest respect. At the last minute, we had to sign documents we could not understand for a suit we thought had already been closed. He listened to our story and offered to meet and help us. He explained what we were signing and offered us amazing advice. His sincerity and kindness during a stressful time did not go unnoticed. He gave my husband and me plenty to think about, and because of Thomas' brutal honesty, we made a very empowering decision. Our legal system can be very scary, and without the right guidance, we would all be lost. I appreciate Mr. Bundy's time and the incredible knowledge he bestowed on us, and we will be forever grateful.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Brenda
Truly thankful for Thomas Bundy for doing all the footwork concerning my case ! I was very satisfied in the outcome of my unfortunate ordeal and thanks to him I feel like a huge burden was taken off my shoulders ! You deserve all your flowers !!! Thank you Thank you Thank you !!!!!!!
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17 Apr, 2024 by Melissa honold
Mo and his team are FANTASTIC!!! Everyone is so patient and knowledgeable. Thanks a million!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Siam sultan
29 Feb, 2024 by Aleš šuštar
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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.
