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02 Jul, 2024 by Scg.wbl2011
Scott is a great guy he handles things and makes you feel better about whatever situation you are in. He gave me hope and made me feel safe I would recommend him to anyone!
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13 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
In June, 2019, I was arrested and charged with a serious crime. My wife was put in touch with Attorney Scott Weinberg, who contacted her at 10:00 p.m., and met her at the Courthouse for the bail hearing the next morning (which was a Saturday). Scott rearranged his personal weekend schedule to be sure he represented me in Court, where I was released on bail. For 17 months, Scott tirelessly worked on my case. He was reassuring, calmed our fears and was optimistic about avoiding a jail sentence. Scott walked us through each step of the process, and was available by text/phone 24/7. When COVID hit, and everything was delayed, he kept us up-do-date on what was going on, and met with us several times. At times, I was severely depressed and convinced I would be given a jail sentence, but Scott alleviated my fears. When the courthouse re-opened, I met with Scott immediately, as we prepared for my day in court. Again, Scott went over everything with me, answered any questions and was patient and kind in reassuring me. The end result was I was not given any jail time, but instead probation and house arrest. This sentence was due to 17 months of hard work and negotiations by Scott Weinberg. He believed in me, and fought for me - daily. Scott understood that I never would have survived jail, and believed in me through this whole ordeal. He is a warm, compassionate man, and an excellent attorney. Both my wife and I are forever grateful and thankful for Scott Weinberg.
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07 Oct, 2020 by Whitney
My experience with Scott Weinberg has been nothing but the best. He is bar none A phenomenal lawyer and a great guy to speak with. He is not only a person who you can talk to you on a real basis but he is also somebody who will get the job done for you. He will be the only lawyer I would ever hire from here on out.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Kimberley
n a divorce case, Kathryn was not only extremely knowledgeable, but she was highly sensitive to the fact that it was proving to be a traumatic experience for all involved. Kathryn is the first attorney that I can honestly say has great integrity! She goes beyond the normal for her clients and truly cares about each case.
Her legal representation restored my faith in the justice system. If you're seeking legal help as a divorce client, call Kathryn today!
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20 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
We adopted our grandchild with the legal help of Kathryn Wallace. She was extremely knowledgeable; explained exactly what needed to be done and what the pitfalls might be. She gave us very accurate information which wasn't the case with the attorney we interviewed previously. Kathryn and her paralegal, Sherri O'Connell kept us informed every step of the way. Everything worked out perfectly and was actually enjoyable thanks to this team. On top of being professional & experienced, I truly believe Kathryn Wallace cares. I definitely would recommend Kathryn Wallace to anyone needing an attorney.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Kurt holtzclaw
The Tippen Law Firm provided value-added service in closing out my recently deceased sister's estate. In a very compassionate, empathetic and patient manner, the Tippens advised and led me step by step through the processes of Trust Administration and Probate for the estate. They consistently demonstrated the highest level of expertise in estate law, and were instrumental to achieve the best possible outcomes in a very efficient and cost effective manner. I would give them SIX stars if I could, and would give them the highest recommendation to anyone needing legal expertise and assistance in their practice areas.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Scott howells
The Tippen Law team assisted us through the task of Estate Planning and Wills.
They were very professional and efficient throughout this process.
The clarity through the process was outstanding. The team listened to our needs, offering positive professional suggestions.
If your goal is to have your expectations exceeded and go beyond satisfied to completely pleased, Tippen Law Firm did it for us. I’m sure they will do it for you as well.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Bradley
Bryan and Stephanie
Thank you so much for handling our LLC matters. Kelly and I so much appreciate your knowledge and care. You made it such an easy process. We look forward to working with you in the future and highly recommend your firm.
Brad and Kelly Giannotti 2024
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12 Aug, 2024 by Naita overton
We have used Jeff and referred others to him. He is very knowledgeable and helpful.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
This crook will not do his job. Never prepared, does not present evidence. Scared to put up a fight. Ill be going to the bar with complaint. Attorney was paid in full from the start. No empathy or fight for his clients.
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16 Nov, 2023 by April hester
Very professional and caring highly recommend
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09 Aug, 2024 by Kasey deuberry
Highly recommend Bogle Law, specifically Attorney Kennedy! He helped me with several legal issues & was extremely helpful. Will use again in the future :)
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09 Aug, 2024 by Heather
I love this firm❤️ they were so helpful and with quick response time I was so impressed. Katy was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease when I needed it most. I would recommend her and anyone in this law firm. 100% satisfied
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31 Jul, 2024 by Brad
Wow, I couldn't be happier with deciding to contact Bogle Law in such a difficult time. I was totally blown away by how easy it was to discuss my situation with my Attorney, Katy Napolitan. It didn't stop there as the entire office was so friendly and helpful especially her paralegal assistant Lauren. Katy and the office staff were very attentive to my every need throughout the process, you could tell they genuinely cared about my situation. More importantly, I got a favorable outcome with my attorney Katy leading the way! Thank you so much Katy for being there for me!!! I would highly recommend her and the Bogle Law firm to anyone in need of a Law Firm. It made a stressful time in my life so much easier with their compassionate ways. Thank You!! Katy and Bogle Law
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09 Aug, 2024 by Kasey deuberry
Highly recommend Bogle Law, specifically Attorney Kennedy! He helped me with several legal issues & was extremely helpful. Will use again in the future :)
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09 Aug, 2024 by Heather
I love this firm❤️ they were so helpful and with quick response time I was so impressed. Katy was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease when I needed it most. I would recommend her and anyone in this law firm. 100% satisfied
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31 Jul, 2024 by Brad
Wow, I couldn't be happier with deciding to contact Bogle Law in such a difficult time. I was totally blown away by how easy it was to discuss my situation with my Attorney, Katy Napolitan. It didn't stop there as the entire office was so friendly and helpful especially her paralegal assistant Lauren. Katy and the office staff were very attentive to my every need throughout the process, you could tell they genuinely cared about my situation. More importantly, I got a favorable outcome with my attorney Katy leading the way! Thank you so much Katy for being there for me!!! I would highly recommend her and the Bogle Law firm to anyone in need of a Law Firm. It made a stressful time in my life so much easier with their compassionate ways. Thank You!! Katy and Bogle Law
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10 Aug, 2024 by Joshua allen
Terrible attorney. Period. The dude flat out lies. Upon hiring him, I very clearly and specifically detailed my desire for open communication and being semi involved, i wanted to know exactly what steps he was taking on my case and the avenues he planned on approaching the case from. He was very appeasing and accommodating during our initial phone conversation and assured me that he would do just that. Well upon paying him, in full, $7500 for a third degree felony charge he proceeded to not contact me even once and didn't return many many calls for over 8 months. Can't imagine he was particularly proactive on my case.
So I began to "build a defense." (I use the term loosely) As I researched the case and charges, I began seeing gaping holes in the prosecutions chances for a conviction. As I presented these things to him, he IMMEDIATELY dismissed them....only to attempt to contact me 3-4 months later with attempts at presenting my avenue of approach as his own newly formed ideas. Kind of embarrassing (for him) to be honest.
He initially purported himself to be some kind of trial lawyer of some repute....but he's not. I wouldn't even consider him necessarily competent. He's a decent salesman I will give him that; but salesmen by nature (much like lawyers, I guess) are dishonest and manipulative, so I don't count or consider that a positive thing.
2 years into my case he spoke to me (outside of 45 second status reviews AT COURT) approximately 4 times. And had to be chased down to get that.
At some point during the preceeding months he decided to run for a publicly appointed position as Judge. To some that may be a testament to his ability or capacity, but let me assure you whole heartedly and with full confidence that it is absolutely NOT. My issue with his decision is that it takes a great amount of time and energy and resources (attention planning focus coordinating rubbing elbows etc) toward his new venture. Essentially disregarding the things of his past, like the cases he was handling.
And that's exactly what he did. He handled my case. He did not work on it nor attempt to defend me. Maybe he didn't like or agree with me. I personally don't care. When I went to him the final time he and gave him the most basic, and also the most solid defense, that was cited directly in the charges case logs or whatever, he said and I quote "I don't know, I'll just have to take your word for it..." he didn't appear to read anything on the charge except maybe the very first citation because that was the ONLY point he referenced multiple times.
Anyways if you've made it this far I can assume you are intentionally attempting to educate yourself on the type of attorney you may be hiring. Please do not employ this man. He is not objective. He is not very intelligent. He's a scam artist.
He misrepresented the offers to me from the state. Multiple times. To clarify what I mean, the state made an offer that consisted of xyz; it was presented to me by Michael Powell in the form of "if the state had an offer it would be 'like' a,b,c" only to find out that the state DID in fact have an offer that SPECIFICALLY consisted of a, b, and c. I know it sounds unimportant but in a profession exclusively based around language and phrasing and terminology, to have the person responsible for defending my life and freedom misrepresent idea based on words and language and phrasing seems either intentional or out of ignorance. Neither of which will be beneficial to anyone seeking his services.
Please do yourself a favor and stay away from this guy if you want an opportunity at a good defense.
I'm sure I could add more and go into greater detail and share some other personal ideas or observations but I believe I accurately covered the main points, I appreciate anyone who has taken the time and attention to attempt to learn what they are getting into.
Again, do not hire this guy. I am from out of state and any public defender would have produced the same results in a worst case scenario.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Shernette jones
mr powell is very decent man i have had to deal with him on more than one occasion and he work with me i am grateful to you mr powell and i will support you, thank you
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16 May, 2024 by Howard toy
Excellent service, the professionalism you would expect from a qualified establishment.
Mr Powells credentials match his presentation and performance.
Excellent office support staff.
HIGHLY recommend
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10 Aug, 2024 by Joshua allen
Terrible attorney. Period. The dude flat out lies. Upon hiring him, I very clearly and specifically detailed my desire for open communication and being semi involved, i wanted to know exactly what steps he was taking on my case and the avenues he planned on approaching the case from. He was very appeasing and accommodating during our initial phone conversation and assured me that he would do just that. Well upon paying him, in full, $7500 for a third degree felony charge he proceeded to not contact me even once and didn't return many many calls for over 8 months. Can't imagine he was particularly proactive on my case.
So I began to "build a defense." (I use the term loosely) As I researched the case and charges, I began seeing gaping holes in the prosecutions chances for a conviction. As I presented these things to him, he IMMEDIATELY dismissed them....only to attempt to contact me 3-4 months later with attempts at presenting my avenue of approach as his own newly formed ideas. Kind of embarrassing (for him) to be honest.
He initially purported himself to be some kind of trial lawyer of some repute....but he's not. I wouldn't even consider him necessarily competent. He's a decent salesman I will give him that; but salesmen by nature (much like lawyers, I guess) are dishonest and manipulative, so I don't count or consider that a positive thing.
2 years into my case he spoke to me (outside of 45 second status reviews AT COURT) approximately 4 times. And had to be chased down to get that.
At some point during the preceeding months he decided to run for a publicly appointed position as Judge. To some that may be a testament to his ability or capacity, but let me assure you whole heartedly and with full confidence that it is absolutely NOT. My issue with his decision is that it takes a great amount of time and energy and resources (attention planning focus coordinating rubbing elbows etc) toward his new venture. Essentially disregarding the things of his past, like the cases he was handling.
And that's exactly what he did. He handled my case. He did not work on it nor attempt to defend me. Maybe he didn't like or agree with me. I personally don't care. When I went to him the final time he and gave him the most basic, and also the most solid defense, that was cited directly in the charges case logs or whatever, he said and I quote "I don't know, I'll just have to take your word for it..." he didn't appear to read anything on the charge except maybe the very first citation because that was the ONLY point he referenced multiple times.
Anyways if you've made it this far I can assume you are intentionally attempting to educate yourself on the type of attorney you may be hiring. Please do not employ this man. He is not objective. He is not very intelligent. He's a scam artist.
He misrepresented the offers to me from the state. Multiple times. To clarify what I mean, the state made an offer that consisted of xyz; it was presented to me by Michael Powell in the form of "if the state had an offer it would be 'like' a,b,c" only to find out that the state DID in fact have an offer that SPECIFICALLY consisted of a, b, and c. I know it sounds unimportant but in a profession exclusively based around language and phrasing and terminology, to have the person responsible for defending my life and freedom misrepresent idea based on words and language and phrasing seems either intentional or out of ignorance. Neither of which will be beneficial to anyone seeking his services.
Please do yourself a favor and stay away from this guy if you want an opportunity at a good defense.
I'm sure I could add more and go into greater detail and share some other personal ideas or observations but I believe I accurately covered the main points, I appreciate anyone who has taken the time and attention to attempt to learn what they are getting into.
Again, do not hire this guy. I am from out of state and any public defender would have produced the same results in a worst case scenario.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Shernette jones
mr powell is very decent man i have had to deal with him on more than one occasion and he work with me i am grateful to you mr powell and i will support you, thank you
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16 May, 2024 by Howard toy
Excellent service, the professionalism you would expect from a qualified establishment.
Mr Powells credentials match his presentation and performance.
Excellent office support staff.
HIGHLY recommend
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05 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Katy is best criminal attorney out there! I hired her to handle my criminal traffic case, and she was with me every step of the way. Having never had anything more than a simple speeding ticket, I was a nervous wreck about this case and what it could do to my life. At my first consultation, she talked me through my charges, explained what the process would look like, and the different avenues she would explore to resolve my case. Katy communicated with me consistently, and I always felt in the loop. Definitely empowered me and made me feel confident throughout the entire process. Glad to say that shortly after the initial consultation, Katy got the State to drop the charges and had the case expunged!! Cannot recommend her enough! I hope I am never in this situation again, but if I am, she will be the first person I call. Thank you, Katy!!
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15 Mar, 2023 by Elizabeth rosado
Leonard Johnson has been representing me I’m different cases since 2010 and I have zero complaints !! Him and dori have been amazing to me and EVERYONE I have referred them to . Very happy with him him!
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15 May, 2022 by Cynthia weant
Mr. JOHNSON is very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend his services.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Elizabeth rosado
Leonard Johnson has been representing me I’m different cases since 2010 and I have zero complaints !! Him and dori have been amazing to me and EVERYONE I have referred them to . Very happy with him him!
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15 May, 2022 by Cynthia weant
Mr. JOHNSON is very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend his services.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Mlb barton
Great lawyer!! He will NOT disappoint!!!!
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19 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Read some of this pretentious a-hole's comments. He's what's wrong with the world.
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20 Oct, 2017 by Jay
John was very knowledgeable about my case and the out come. He made me feel reassured that he was going to do the best job he could for me and he did. Knowing that he knew all sides of the law from start to finish was very comforting. I have recommended him to other people in similar situations and I would call him again in a heartbeat.
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13 Sep, 2017 by Ryan
John defended me in a mess that I got myself into last year. I was charged with possession of a controlled substance and paraphernalia. I failed to show up for my original court hearing and was issued a bench warrant that I was eventually picked up on during that arrest I was in possession of a controlled substance as well as paraphernalia again. John successfully got into the ARD program, but shortly there after I was charged with shoplifting and after that a public drunkenness that would have violated the terms of my ARD probation. John worked with me and the court system to get me the treatment I needed and was able to get me back into the ARD program and have the majority of the charges dismissed. I am hopeful I will never have to utilize his services again, but if I needed to I wouldn't hesitate at all to hire him again. He is a stand up gentleman and an excellent attorney!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Niki clark
Very nice people work there. Helpful
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09 Apr, 2024 by George borruto
02 Nov, 2023 by Turtle moreau
Went in the office to file a grievance and they had a detective ask me to leave. this is a violation their ethical trust. By State statute no office shall hold or have vested power of the attorney general without proceeding forward in an ethical and moral manner for the staff to speak down to people and say that you're trying to belittle them because they don't understand how to do their job amicably we do not pay them for their feelings facts dont care about your feelings when you have a contractual obligation you don't get to act like a preschooler absolute deplorable and disgusting misrepresentation under the guise of law the refusal to take action is alarming because that is theft by deception and misappropriation of funds if we are paying them to do a job that they get to say no to makes their exact existence a direct conflict of interest and bias by definition of Florida law
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25 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
He handled my divorce.Beginning was somewhat okay mind you the case should of been way over by now as we were only married for a short time and do not share anything but the kids and it just keeps getting drug out by the other party and they keep requesting more things and trying to dig up more things to try to get money and the fact that my ex has not been honest about so many things I believe has helped gain sympathy in getting what she wants.Had come to an agreement and thought things were signed but found out later on the other party did not sign.I just want it over with. I'm sure my case looks horrible to some people but not knowing the whole story it's very easy to form an opinion as I feel this is what this lawyer has done.Does not give me options as what he can do for me it's just give the other party what they want.Seems he has been more helpful to my soon to be ex than to me.Most lawyers are there for you whether right or wrong I did not get this from this lawyer.Had I been able to start over with another lawyer I would have of but that would have been costly.I did consult with another lawyer who seemed to have been more understandin gand helpful.I wish I would of listened in the beginning when a few people told me it didn't seem like this lawyer was being too helpful or doing all he can for me.I would not recommend this attorney.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I used Dennis a few years back for a custody case. Not only was he responsive and helpful but after a long battle I was awarded full custody of my daughter. In the two-three year battle Dennis never once dropped the ball and was a bulldog in the courtroom. I would recommend Dennis 100 times over and will not hesitate to hire him again if need be.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I've been using Dennis for 2 years to assist with a divorce and child support. I don't live in Florida so it is important for good communications. It takes multiple emails and phone calls to get a response from Dennis. When he does respond usually the information is not helpful. I've been trying to have my child support modified for 6 months now and there has been no progress and no communication from Dennis. I feel that my money may have been spent better elsewhere.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Renee
Steven made promises he couldn't keep and never returned a call! My family wasted money hiring him! He did nothing. When your probation officer tells u how much your lawyer messed things up , that truly made me realize how horrible of a lawyer he is. He had to send medical documents to my po while I was hospitalized and he never did and the police came to my house looking for me with a warrant. Steven caused all of it. Couldn't believe the promising speech he gave myself and my family and never came thru on any of them. Be aware! Hopefully he stops practicing soon and stops taking money from desperate and scared people.
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21 May, 2023 by Anonymous
I’d give no stars if I could. Steve was the absolute worst! False promises, lies, no communication. He was as awful as the monster I was divorcing. Took well over 2 years. Crazy amount of evidence and Steve did NOTHING with it. He allowed me to be abused the entire time. He’s a pansy and a terrible attorney.
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15 Sep, 2021 by Tom
I hired Leskovich for child custody and divorce. The only thing Steve did in 7 months was take money from me. Very poor communication and extremely unprofessional. Save your money and do not hire him he has never-ending excuses and zero follow through with anything
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20 May, 2021 by Anonymous
He is impossible to get ahold of after you pay him. I've been dealing with a case with him for over 2 years now and he hasn't done anything. I paid him a hefty fee up front and now have to try to find a new lawyer to actually handle my case. Very disappointed.
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11 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Joe Lombardo for a Dui case. He wanted paid in full, up front, which I agreed to, out of desperation. His price was very hefty. I only spoke with him twice in a three month period that I sat in jail awaiting him to do his job. The job I paid him to do. The two times I saw him was only because I called and pestered him into coming to speak with me.He was very unorganized, as well as very lazy. once he got my money and I was sitting in jail, he was more than content with taking my money and hoping I'd forget that he was supposed to help me. The end result was for $3000.00 I got the exact same result, except for with a more drawn out process and a lot more stress, as I would have with a public defender.
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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.
