Lawyers map
>422
experienced lawyers
Filter by
13 Feb, 2023 by Robert seth
They are two people that get the best out come..I thank them both.
Read more
09 Oct, 2022 by John berry
Stan is an amazing attorney who does what he says. He's a fellow of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers which is where I learned about him. He is the go to guy in the Pittsburg area. When I have clients who need an attorney in PA, Stan is my first choice.
Read more
12 Sep, 2020 by Lisa richard
Cool place to take your kids
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Cindy wolff
02 Oct, 2024 by Max saybel
04 Sep, 2024 by Debbie franco
I love that they respond the same day to you. I am very satisfied with legal shield.
Read more
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
08 Oct, 2024 by Jon b
Awful experience after being a client for many years, and I could not recommend them to anyone. I was charged over $1000 to end services for some simple trademark renewals. The attorney of record changes had already been made, meaning there was practically nothing left to do. If your business needs patent or trademark services, I would avoid Metz and find more personal services elsewhere.
Read more
14 Mar, 2024 by Tammy valero
19 Jan, 2024 by Guy berkebile
Great, honest law firm. I use them for my business and have had great experiences and successes with them.
Read more
16 Jul, 2023 by Ms. k. baskin
20 Jul, 2021 by Andrew sanderbeck
08 Jun, 2021 by Joe shebetich
Honestly, I couldn't be more pleased with having attorney Robb Gavin help me with my real estate needs. I have just used him again for assistance in another real estate issue that he came through for me again! I was very pleasantly surprised how expedient and fair he was with his fees. Mr. Gavin originally asked me for a retainer to secure his services. He was so efficient with his work that he sent me back more than half his retainer. You can't be more honest than that!
Thanks Robb!
Joseph Shebetich
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Jamie seigworth
He’ll straight take your money and run. It’s funny. I left a review years ago about it but it has since disappeared. This dude is a huge piece of work. He literally took our money and went back to Pittsburgh and removed himself from the case. What a creep! These “5” star reviews are paid. I would put money on it.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Hakan uluturk
Blaine Jones and his staff are very knowledgeable and proficient at their craft. Blaine himself is very personable and sincere. He has a way of analyzing complex situations and charting out the optimal path. I sincerely recommend Blaine Jones Law to anyone in need of legal counsel.
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Sbi
Excellent
Read more
21 Jul, 2022 by Umesh rao
Mr. Alex Castrodale and his team are simply the best. They are always available and responsive. They give you solid advice and did all my legal paperwork diligently, never had to do it twice. I recommend this law firm and Mr Castrodale very highly.
Read more
01 Oct, 2021 by Denys fedorchenko
I was recommended the firm by my educational institution since, they had several successful cases with them. I had a chance to work with Alex Castradale one of the attorney who represents Immigration field. Alex, is extremely professional and knowledgeable attorney. He was always quick in response, and always was able to find a time for a call and communication. He was able to answer all of my questions, and provide a valuable advise on the case. It was a pleasure to work with him, highly recommend!
Read more
30 Jan, 2021 by Sheina s
Extremely unprofessional and unqualified in handling legal matters; I had a better idea myself on how to draft my application. The firm included both supporting and contradicting materials in my application and the final application was poor, contradicting and carelessly crafted.
Never available for any questions or queries. The entire experience was draining, negative and of being left out in the cold. I wish I had chosen wisely and saved $$$$$.
Read more
21 Jul, 2022 by Umesh rao
Mr. Alex Castrodale and his team are simply the best. They are always available and responsive. They give you solid advice and did all my legal paperwork diligently, never had to do it twice. I recommend this law firm and Mr Castrodale very highly.
Read more
01 Oct, 2021 by Denys fedorchenko
I was recommended the firm by my educational institution since, they had several successful cases with them. I had a chance to work with Alex Castradale one of the attorney who represents Immigration field. Alex, is extremely professional and knowledgeable attorney. He was always quick in response, and always was able to find a time for a call and communication. He was able to answer all of my questions, and provide a valuable advise on the case. It was a pleasure to work with him, highly recommend!
Read more
30 Jan, 2021 by Sheina s
Extremely unprofessional and unqualified in handling legal matters; I had a better idea myself on how to draft my application. The firm included both supporting and contradicting materials in my application and the final application was poor, contradicting and carelessly crafted.
Never available for any questions or queries. The entire experience was draining, negative and of being left out in the cold. I wish I had chosen wisely and saved $$$$$.
Read more
03 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I was referred to attorney Medoff in September, 2022. Upon contacting him regarding my situation he took the time to discuss my options and explained exactly what needed to be done. He answered all of my questions and provided me with excellent legal advice. We agreed upon a price which was very reasonable and I was able to easily make payment via my Visa Card. Attorney Medoff then proceeded to make all the necessary moves to get my situation resolved, he kept me updated regarding the progress he was making and within two months it was resolved successfully. I would strongly recommend attorney Medoff to my friends and family.
Read more
12 Oct, 2022 by Samantha
Jan was my first ever actual attorney. Our landlord was trying to screw us over because all three of my children ended up with elevated lead levels because of the peeling paint and they're constantly sick because of the amount of black mold in the home. My children's pediatrician ended up calling the department of health and within 3 hours he was retaliating. This man was trying to sue us for $12,000 basically so that we would have to pay to repair the mold and whatnot. We didn't know what we were going to do. A very good friend of ours recommended his attorney to us and I could not be more grateful. We called him, sent him our stuff, he reviewed everything, and came 150% prepared to the hearing. We ended up walking away not owing a penny and not even having to pay rent for this month because it's inhabitable. If it wasn't for him we would be paying the full $12,000 because we don't know the law like he does. His personality is a bit strong, but I feel that's needed in a good lawyer.
Read more
22 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Great lawyer, friendly personality, good listener, fast response time. I recommend!
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Amritpal nat
I m truck driver got traffic tickets in Pennsylvania Ashley saved my license got tickets dismissed they are professionals highly recommended.
Read more
26 Jan, 2022 by Lance
This dude allowed an impersonator to use my name, and in the same case packet represented the impersonator using his own name and a charge falls on my then clean slate probation and his negligence and unprofessional cost me 4yrs of my life in prison ...
I can prove without doubt this clerical error belongs to another defendant..
I lost my jobs, employment opportunities ruined, my child taken from me . Because this man willingly participated in fraud!
Read more
20 Nov, 2020 by Capo thedon
Ashley represented me today in a matter where i was facing jail time plus a license suspension. Not only did she keep my freedom but also saved my license. The odds were against me but she persevered. She is a very professional, attentive lawyer. HIGHLY recommend.
Josh G.
Read more
10 May, 2023 by Anonymous
I had an in person consult with this attorney last month that did not go well, she was quite rude and insensitive to me. The results of her consultation (I later learned from another legal representative) were misquided and inaccurate. She threw some legalese language at me that was not applicable in my case. So it was a waste of $500 of my time and money.
Read more
02 Mar, 2020 by Kris
Elizabeth is the first attorney out of 4 for me for a long custody situation. She never had me worried, always got back to me in a timely manner. She handled all of my situations with ease & professionally. She reassured me time, and she advocated for me and my children during a rough time. She also is very personable with her clients and that’s very important when you are dealing with high conflict situations to be able to work well with your attorney. Def would recommend her.
Read more
09 Aug, 2019 by Diana
Father wins custody!!! My husband and I went through a very long and difficult 7 month custody battle trying to obtain primary custody of my step-son. Elizabeth and Julie Beroes fought extremely hard to help us win every step of the way. The amount of time and effort they both put into our case was exactly what any client would want from a lawyer. They are both extremely knowledgible and have very strong personalities that create the perfect combination for a win in court! This lawfirm has by far exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend both of them to anyone who needs assistance in family court matters. They had extremely quick response times for all of our questions and always made us feel as if we were their top priority!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Ashley pamplin
I needed some information and Mr. Brian Walters was SO helpful in explaining my options. I was nervous to even make the call and he made me feel much more comfortable and provided information that helped me make an informed decision.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Gary mack
Attorney Brian Walters is not your average attorney. Let me tell you something about him. HE ACTUALLY CARES!!! He'll go out of his way to be there for everything you need and always listens to all of your questions. I first met Brian close to 20 years ago that I had hired for a close friend. Since then he's been there for me a few times. The last time I called him ,he was on vacation out west and when his phone rang , he actually answered it. It wasn't his office or any other associate,it was Brian that answered. Like I said before,HE ACTUALLY CARES about his clients. In short,,,, if you are ever in need of a excellent attorney, that will always be there for you, remember the name Brian Walters of the Delta Law Group!!!( Thank you Brian for all your help and support )
Respectfully yours
Gary
Read more
23 Jun, 2023 by Kyrah carey
Paid $2500 for ONLY the preliminary hearing and she did nothing. Couldn’t even get him bond. She did not put up a fight nor did I feel she had his best interest during the case. Even worse she had no communication with us and was showing up late. I wouldn’t recommend her ever at all. We consulted with a different lawyer who said even said she didn’t do anything he shouldn’t still be in jail because it was an illegal search! He would be out if she did her job. I honestly can’t believe how bad she was. ( AND THE DEFENDANT IS STILL IN JAIL!)
Read more
05 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Rebecca is an excellent attorney when addressing custody and family court issues.
Read more
29 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Puhac listens and cares. She is also tough when she needs to be tough. She helped me in a very difficult custody case and never lost. I would never go to anyone else for any legal needs I have.
Read more
29 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Rebecca Puhac is a very experienced lawyer who can be fierce in the courtroom. If you have a case that will result in a large profit for her, and you're willing to pay tens of thousands of dollars to her fees, then hire her. If your case will result in just few thousand dollars than she is more concerned with being elected for a judge position than looking into your case. At the consultation, she breezed over my case and told me what I could get from my divorce. She never fully looked into my case. I did hire her after the consultation. That resulted in me paying her $4000 in fees (after she said she would not charge me for calls or emails because it was a smaller case), and she drug out the divorce a year longer than needed. Whem she thought it was going to litigation and that would result in more money for her, she looked at my case. Found out her prior assessment was about $40,000 off from being accurate. So I paid her more than I got out of the divorce and had to deal with the stress for a year longer than needed. To preface, I originally wanted to settle but she pushed that I was entitled to so much that I should not settle. Had she actually looked at my case the first time, I would give her good ratings. Instead, I wasn't a big enough money making case to get that courtesy
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Amritpal nat
I m truck driver got traffic tickets in Pennsylvania Ashley saved my license got tickets dismissed they are professionals highly recommended.
Read more
20 Nov, 2020 by Capo thedon
Ashley represented me today in a matter where i was facing jail time plus a license suspension. Not only did she keep my freedom but also saved my license. The odds were against me but she persevered. She is a very professional, attentive lawyer. HIGHLY recommend.
Josh G.
Read more
24 Jun, 2019 by Chris
Had a homicide case and helped him help me and was found not guilty... threw the process he accepted all my calls and was available .,.. #stillfree
Read more
27 Mar, 2022 by Brad
This guy could of had my case thrown out early because the police would only showed up 1 on the first hearing and again on the 2nd only 1 cop showed up and on the 3rd one the blood work wasn't ready so it should have been thrown out. He had no clue what xanax was and the difference between that and a Klonopin. I gave him 4 grand and I said I'm not asking for all of it back I'm asking for 1,000 his response was you only gave me a couple hundred until he looked back and he said I got 100 "which I gave that as a retainer. Then his like there's 1500 and then he mumbled what sounded like 4 thousand and then he's like no I'm not giving you any money back I work hard on that case. It was during covid it kept getting postponed. Please do yourself a favor and get someone different or a public defender. They work way better and the law is fresh in their mine. DONT USE THIS GUY AND JOEL STOP DELETING ALL YOU BAD REVIEWS
Read more
26 Dec, 2017 by Rjb
Mr. Dresbold is a very thoughtful and intelligent attorney. He's friendly and concerned with you as a person, not just a client. Highly recommended for any type of legal concern.
Read more
29 Oct, 2014 by Tc
Joel represented me in a defiant tresspass, disorderly conduct and public drunkeness case. He was able to get my charges reduced in which i walked away without the stigma of a misdemeanor on my record and I only had a 100 dollar fine. He made a very embarrassing situation less stressful and very professional. I would recommend him to any one. He even waited in line with me. He even changed his schedule for me to show up to court! Thanks Joel you're the best!
TC
Read more
22 Jan, 2019 by Alexis
I contacted Halstead the day that I was being threatened to be arrested for something that wasn’t a arrestable offense. She contacted the detective and then let me know that I wouldn’t be arrested and that I could go back home. Halstead kept in touch with me in the weeks following before the court hearing. She came to the hearing and was very supportive, and listened to everything I had to say. She gave great advise and when everything was said and done, I ended up with a small fine instead of 2 misdemeanors. She did a great job for me and I would recommend her to anyone that needs her services.
Read more
08 Aug, 2018 by Patrick elliott
20 Nov, 2017 by Drew wirkowski
26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock
I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁
Read more
19 Jun, 2023 by Gabriel cimarolli
Update Review #2
Absolute disregard for clients time and money, 4 years and Nothing done for divorce. The only thing I’ve found this firm responsible for is making sure their “Bill gets delivered on time to our home in a timely fashion”
I would give it less than one star, but I have to choose something.
Read more
31 May, 2023 by Jake rickard
13 Jan, 2024 by Juanita giles
I would not recommend him to anyone, the experience was less than professional with no positive results. My asking questions was insulting to him and our client/attorney arrangment was terminated. A total waste of my money.
Read more
13 Jan, 2024 by Paul asturi
Waste of money. Had absolutely no interest in helping me, especially after I paid him. It’s probably the only reason he showed up at court. But instead of having answers for me, he had compliments for the opposition. Along with his panicking demeanor, which made me too worried to go in front of the judge and defend myself with the truth!
If me giving consent to the PFA based on your advice is considered a successful resolution then that says it all. Not to mention the PFA was then used to obtain the criminal charges liar. Don’t worry, I will be reporting you to the BAR association
Read more
27 Oct, 2023 by Justin ragghianti
12 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I am beyond happy that I retained Mrs Bickerton to work my case for me. I interviewed several different lawyers before settling on this firm, and I firmly believe that if I had hired someone else the results wouldn’t have been as favorable. Not only did Mrs Bickerton manage to successfully argue my case, she made me feel like I’m an actual person and not just a number throughout the whole process. My many questions were all answered in a timely manner, her case law knowledge was superb, and on the one occasion she didn’t have an answer immediately available for me she made sure to research and get back to me right away. I found her pricing to be fair with regards to the service that I received. If I ever needed help again I wouldn’t hesitate to contact her, or refer anyone I knew needed assistance to her.
Read more
07 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Once I hired her it took over a year for my case to go to court waiting for a decision that could have been expedited. Only time she would respond if it pertained to money. Didn't use any witnesses that were in place had an affidavit signed by strong witness and didn't use it. All she did was refute and did a case brief not even tried to prove the intent in court. Had solid information on the staff members involved deeming them not credible did not use it. Cross examination skills were very limited. Throughout and before we even went to court kept saying she could win on appeal. Had information and key witnesses to win at that stage. The prosecution had no evidence at all to present just testimony from people that weren't credible and the investigator admitted he didn't do an investigation only testimony. Lost a case to where there was no evidence only testimony. How good are her legal skills? Never could get in contact with her never returned phone calls would go straight to fax. She would answer emails every once in a while. Made herself available a day before court. Didn't have game plan in court all she did was refute and do a case brief. Seems as if she already knew she threw my case once I emailed her letting her know I lost she called me letting me know her prices for the next proceedings. After that pitiful display in the courtroom she should have gave me my money back or offered to do everything else for free. Why take on a case that your not planning on winning. Took my money and gave me very poor representation. Stay away from this attorney she's very ineffective.
Read more
09 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
I truly can’t recommend Lea Bickerton strongly enough. I worked with Lea in a criminal case that crossed over into the area of corporate law. Her vast knowledge and expertise of the legal system combined with her no nonsense, straight to the facts approach proved to be a major deciding factor that brought this case to justice as quickly as it began.
Read more
30 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Brad for a family matter. He misinformed me of the support guidelines, by informing me the more my ex made the more I had to pay. Which is completely wrong! I have this in writing from him, of that statement. Which costed me more money. He was totally unprofessional In how he talked to me regarding a settlement he wanted me to take, and I did not want to. Also, he was retained for another issue and showed up over 20 minutes late, and I settled the case MYSELF. He still wanted paid! He’s a very cheap attorney, but, remember you get what you pay for. I wouldn’t recommend him for anyone!
Read more
05 Jul, 2011 by Dan miller
This lawyer was quick and on stuff. Had our charge gone in one court hearing after months of having other ones keep it going. Brad is the best!!!!!
Read more
14 Nov, 2010 by Anonymous
Brad handled both a divorce and bankruptcy for me. It was a very difficult situation, but he handled my case promptly and efficiently. His prices for these services were excellent, and the level of professionalism was commendable. I was very pleased with the results of both the divorce settlement and bankruptcy. I would highly recommend this attorney to anyone seeking a prompt and fair divorce settlement and to file bankruptcy.
Read more
29 Nov, 2022 by Moms justice
Dan Glasser isn't a good lawyer. I do NOT recommend him. He wasn't prepared for the trial. He yells at his own clients during the trial in front of everyone. He is very arrogant and thus isn't very effective lawyer. When you first talk to him, he presents himself as a very good lawyer but very soon you'll realize that it's just a show and in reality he isn't good.
Read more
28 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
When I approached James for representation, I already had confidence in his abilities through word of mouth. He immediately laid out all possible consequences. He understood the problem, and in being honest with him about the charges Brought against me, he laid out all possible angles and paths we could follow to minimize the sentencing while, understanding I needed to be prepared for the worst. He was easy to contact with questions and would give clear answers at each step in the process.
At every appearance required by the state, he came prepared, based on his knowledge of the of the process, in conjunction with the charges. This made me feel comfortable and confident in his abilities. He made it so that the legal jargon, was easily understood for me, the average citizen.
In my situation, he was able to obtain the best possible outcome, through vast knowledge preparedness, and open lines of communication.
Hiring this firm was one of the best describe I have made in my adult life.
Read more
29 Jun, 2020 by Candace
James took the time to help me understand my situation, I felt he truly cared about what I was going through. A very kind person and I would recommend him if you want a lawyer who cares.
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Dunkel esclave
Too much sass from a senior woman I spoke to. Not helpful at all. Just told me to do what I was already doing and refused to accept the fact I was already doing it.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by William allender
14 May, 2024 by Madison james
I called Neighbor Legal Services to get advice, and Support and learn
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by G b
Excellent firm. Guided us for years, and we cannot be happier!
Read more
26 Nov, 2023 by Rafi bienenstock
I've had the experience of using multiple immigration lawyers in the last few months. Joel was BY FAR the most efficient, honest, and effective I've encountered. I recommend him to anyone looking to be properly taken care of in the quickest and most cost efficient manner. I'd give 10 stars but Joel will have to settle for 5 😁
Read more
18 Sep, 2023 by Sam mccrossin
I hired Frank Kosir.jr unfortunately for a dispute with CSX railroad unfortunately. All this man did is take my money with no action. I paid for a complete deed search and after he completed it, I was told I have no rights to cross the railroad tracks. I took maters into my own hands and did a deed search on my own and found all my rights that he said I did not have. I do not understand how I was able to find all my rights with no experience in this field after paying this firm. He wasted over 7 months of my time with no action. I was charged thousands of dollars with no action. I feel this man is corrupt, be careful
Read more
26 Jul, 2023 by Anthony
Mrs Lisa Caulfield is an excellent attorney. She was very patient with me yet aggressive towards my case she represented me the way all attorneys should represent their clients....and again I would like to tell her thank you!!
Read more
27 Jun, 2013 by Siddiq
Represented a friend of mine. Wrote letters and consulted with him as if she was prepared for his suppression hearing and would argue his motion. He got to his suppression hearing and only asked (2) two questions and made no objections during arresting officer's testimony !! Also, she never spoke with him before or after this hearing.
Read more
01 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
This "attorney" threw a fit in the courtroom. He also badgered witnesses and tried to black male a female into walking away with nothing. Don't waste your time. Find someone that knows what theyŕe doing. Oh! and he lost my case.
Read more
15 Aug, 2012 by Karen
Attorney Yandrich is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet! He is very professional and extremely knowledgable in his field! He explains everything in great detail and in terms a regular person can understand! His fee is quoted to you after the initial meeting and thats what it is! No hidden cost! He won my case for me when other attorneys told me it couldn't be done! I certainly don't miss going to hearings at family court, but I do miss seeing and talking with Attorney Eric Yandrich! He's actually the type of person I would like to have as a friend! I highly recommend him if you are looking for a great attorney you can trust and an overall nice guy!
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
