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06 Jul, 2024 by Robinsonr857
After going through a couple of attorneys and thousands of dollars without any resolution, my confidence in the entire legal system was shaken. It became very clear that most attorneys cared more about making money than helping me-the client- get through a very stressful and life-altering event. I was distraught, until a friend told me about Ms. Kahlon, aka "Neelam," whom he retained in the past. After my intitial consultation with Neelham, my confidence in the legal system was restored! She genuinely listened to me and did not trivialize my concerns as other attorneys have done. After I told Neelam my legal issues, she explained to me -in layman's terms- my options and what she can do to help me. I finally felt I had someone on my side! Neelam exceeded my expectations. My legal troubles were finally resolved in a timely manner with care and compassion. I highly recommend Ms. Kahlon! She is the epitome of what a great attorney should be!
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07 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer years ago and wouldn't recommend her at all. She was a lawyer from another firm at the time but her services was just not on par and worth the money we paid for her representation. She might be ok with the new firm she's with now but the work she did on our case from a previous law firm was just awful.
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08 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Kahlon was very helpful on my divorce case. She was responsive, attentive and kept me informed every step on the way. I didn't think the end result was going to be favorable for me but in the end I was awarded full custody and minimal alimony. Not many fathers can say that. She is the best.
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01 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Not that I have met many attorneys but this one is the worst. No website? Who in this day and age has no website? No cell phone? Yes, Zo does not believe in giving out her cell number and all communication (I use the term "communication" with a large degree of sarcasm) no doubt adding up more charges. Ineptitude is a word that does not even cover this attorney again using the term "attorney" lightly if not sarcastically. If your case is important and there is anything on the line then keep walking until you find credible representation. After considerable time on my case Zoe who is crass beyond belief wanted a full run down of my case. In the court hallway. Before the case. Like as in I was sitting there about to testify. Seems a little shoddy? All of the reviews state the same thing and I suggest you listen to those with previous experience and keep looking. Unless your case isn't important and your money has no value.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Zo Taylor-Rees as my representative attorney for a contentious divorce. The first meeting I had with Zo she was curt and dismissive which should have been my cue to complete the consultation and exit without hiring her. Her manner did not improve in the four months I had dealings with her and her passive approach did not assist my situation, in fact it most likely was the result in a negative situation being more negative. When I left her office 4 K lighter I knew I had made a serious error. It turned out I was right and I suggest you heed/read the reviews here should you need further verification. Taylor-Rees is not passive so much as inept. After the one initial consultation with her in her office each meeting thereafter was held in the hallways in the courtroom. On my second appearance related to the divorce but not the divorce itself Rees substituted another attorney (her husband) and he was not aware of the story, circumstances nor the situation. I had to brief him in the courthouse and thankfully this matter did not progress to trial. I could not imagine going to trial with an attorney playing catch-up the morning of a trial. On the matter of my divorce the last appearance I had secured three witnesses. Despite several attempts to reach Rees the week before the trial she did not return my calls. Most of, if not all communication to Rees is done through her paralegal and Rees neither answers telephone calls nor emails directly. Therefore, one must do all communication though a third party leaving you waiting for a response at the behest of Rees. Rees had not spoken to any of my witnesses to ascertain their value to the case nor furnished me with a list of questions prior to the court date. In the end she did not want to call any of my witnesses to the stand. This could have been easily ascertained prior to the case. Each of my colleagues took a day off from work to testify on my behalf but apparently she did not see fit to use them. If the witnesses had no value to the case that should have been ascertained prior to the court appearance. I subsequently discovered that I could and should have subpoenaed witnesses to testify on my behalf. She was rude and adversarial with me (remembering I am the client) and several of my colleagues who were there on my behalf were horrified at her manner and her hostile tone. I spent the morning in the hallways with Rees squiggling notes on her yellow pad trying to line up the facts of the case in a chronological order despite having been my attorney for four full calendar months. Despite email evidence, photographs, texts videos and all manner of highly relevant items to my case Rees did not offer anything into evidence. She had no predetermined questions for me and missed many, many opportunities to score points for our case. When she did finally call a witness to testify upon my request she was very obviously unprepared. Three weeks prior to the case being heard I consulted with another attorney who suggested I seek turnover orders for assets in the basis of fiduciary waste. This was not completed and the morning of the trial Rees informed me that the motions were going to be presented the following day. Three weeks after I had instructed this to be completed. She was constantly talking about ex-parte motions which were never filed and the one she did file I was informed by my subsequent attorney that it would be rejected and indeed it was. The attorney I hired post Rees also informed me that whole exercise was a completed waste of money. In the four months that Rees was my attorney I never received an update on my account nor the work carried out. The final straw arrived when Gina her paralegal informed me that opposing counsel had enraged her, finally after four months of legal pugilism she was joining the party. I terminated her during that phone call. I have never received a statement nor a refund for work that was not carried out. Caveat Emptor!
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23 Jun, 2014 by Sam
Zo and her paralegal Gina did a fine job for us in the divorce case. Our results were better than we expected. Very knowledgeable
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
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.
