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03 Aug, 2022 by Eric robinson
I met with Mr. Michels on the worst day of my life! I was in a complete panic after a argument with my ex-wife, she threaten to call the police and accused me of some serious domestic violence allegations, and she did. When I met with John Michels, he helped me calm down and allowed me to explain in detail what happen, once he understood completely, he took the time to explain everything, exactly what could happen and how he and his law firm plan to protect me. I felt confident that I was in the right place with the right attorney. I was contacted by the detective and gave his information to John, he went to work, it was over an above for me, they kept me informed throughout the pre-trail matters. John was effective at reaching out to the district attorney’s office and discussing this matter on several occasions, after several months, they decided to drop the matter and not file charges. Absolutely fantastic attorney!
If you find yourself facing a criminal case, you should contact John Michels law firm immediately! He really care about his clients and will sincerely protect you! Thank you John and your team of professional! I truly appreciate you!
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15 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I am so happy I found Mr. Michels, he was extremely knowledgeable, extremely experienced & a pleasure to have represent me. He has something like over 20 years experience and it shows. My case was out of Riverside & he helped me tremendously. Everyone in his office was a pleasure to work with I would recommend John Michels 100%.
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24 Nov, 2018 by Paul
My case was a whirlwind of problems,I hired Mr.Michels,n he came into the situation with pure confidence.With his expierience , n knowledge of people,n with his profession abillity,he was to get me the best ,n the best he he did.He does what he says.After my expierience with him,My family & I will have no other,like I said True Professional...Thanks Mr.Michels
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30 Jan, 2011 by Brian nadeau
Dan Shapiro saved my life. If it weren't for Dan Shapiro I could be in a world of hurt right now. Although I was factually innocent, serious charges had been brought against me by someone seeking to use the legal system to retaliate. And even though I did not commit the crime that I was accused of, my defense wasn't perfect. Certain factors gave the appearence that the crime could have possibly happened. Enough so, that the District Attorney's Office was pursuing a conviction. The Police officer who arrested me had decided that I was guilty or deserved punishment even though I was innocent and and made the scenario worse by lying in his police report to make me look worse.
I was truly crushed as a human being, my family and loved ones were as well, very distraught over the entire event. My life had never been worse than it was at this point.
All of this is over now thanks to Dan. The case has been completely dismissed.
The difference between Dan and other lawyers from what I can tell is this.
1) Dan really cares about his clients. Dan really cares about other people and genuinely wants to help. When Dan decides that he will accept you as a client, he does everything he can to ensure the best result he can get for your case.
2) Dan gets to the root of the Law, stripping away the confusions and complexities which other lawyers bog themselves down in.
3) Dan has a good attitude, is intelligent and is very professional. Judges, Prosecuting Attorney's and Jury's cant help but to like Dan and give credence to what he has to say in the Courtroom. Which might make a difference in how they view your case.
To summarize;
If you want a Lawyer who will really care about your case and do everything he can within the Law to get you the best outcome possible, Dan is the man.
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26 Jan, 2011 by Jacki
Dan has been there for my husband and I when he was very needed.
He is tenacious and will not give up on a case that still has any amount of breath in it. I have worked with other attorneys in the past and I have found Dan to be the best!
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26 Jan, 2011 by David
Mr. Shapiro has represented me in a variet of legal matters. His attention to the smallest of details and his plain talk made me extremely comfortable. Just knowing he would handle everything in a timely and forth-right manner made it easy to sleep at night without worry. He kept me up to date without my needing to make numerous calls to his office. I have and will continue to use Mr. Shapiro whenever I need an attorney.
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04 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
Marc's law firm was there for me when no other attorney would take my criminal case. I went with Lisa a few times to court and she informed me about my case status when Marc was out to court and not available. She was very friendly and knowledgeable about my case.
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27 Sep, 2010 by Rick
Lisa is a savior. She handled my bankruptcy and helped me save my home. She is the single best attorney I have ever met (I had a criminal case a few years back). I would recommend Lisa.
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25 Sep, 2010 by Sam
Marc had helped us on a personal injury case which is how we met Lisa. Lisa met with us several times without ever charging us before we finally decided bankruptcy was right for us. Lisa explained everything to us and helped us plan every move. Everything went like clockwork. Thanks Lisa - You're the Greatest!
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04 Dec, 2018 by Richie
Pete is a very good lawyer he really knows what he is doing and he wont let u hang yourself he will tell u exactly what's gonna happen and what to expect if u got serious charges use pete I have used him 3 times now and I love the guy really
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03 Sep, 2014 by Candice
Pete has extensive knowledge of the law and handles himself with credibility and professionalism in the courtroom. He is responsive to the needs of his clients, kept me up to date with the progress and explained what I did not understand. If you have a difficult or high profile case I would highly recommend Mr. Morreale!
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04 Feb, 2025 by Wyatt aryana
David Wohl is an attorney who is second to none by fighting relentlessly for his clients. His unwavering dedication, sharp decision-making, and life-changing legal advice set him apart from anyone that I could have chosen. From start to finish, he provides clarity with a confident legal path to better your future. If you need a lawyer who truly cares and delivers results, David Wohl is the one to trust!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Victor gee
Went to Davia Whol to represent me
in a fictious claim made against me
by cps. Also was put on the CACI
list and all I can say is after Mr.
Whol representing me in the CACI
hearing and due to his
professionalism we were
successful i got my rights back and
my name taken off the CACI list
and able to resume my life now
that is back to normal thanks to his representation thank you soo much!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Rafa huante
Todo bien valió la pena la espera los abogados y personal me tuvieron m informado del caso todo el tiempo
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08 Jun, 2022 by Andrew
A professional that knows the law and is willing to go above and beyond what ever the situation may be. If you were going into battle she would be the one you want on your side. without a doubt. she’s the type to inform you of your weakness’s and strength’s the do and don’ts because she has expert experience and advice. The best at what she doe’s. I wouldn’t want anyone else on my side. She’s not only helped me she’s helped friends of mine with excellent results. word of mouth travels and travels extremely fast. Be informed and know your options. she took very good care of me and I know she would do the same for you. I couldn’t appreciate her more.
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25 Jun, 2015 by Terie
Even though I have only needed a Defense Attorney one time my experience with Steven L Harmon was exceptional. I have referred him before and would do it again.
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23 Apr, 2011 by Shari
A family member had him as his a conflict panel attorney and I was so impressed with how dedicated he was and his overall performance that I hired him as my attorney when I came into some legal trouble.
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17 Apr, 2011 by Jhg
Mr. Kimbirk skillfully and knowledgeably “defended the poor and the needy…and all went well. ”
Charged falsely with several criminal felonies, our son was immediately jailed with an impossible, incredible $500,000.00 bail. He appeared doomed to suffer needless weeks or months of imprisonment awaiting California’s overburdened criminal justice system to grind onward – until we found Anthony Kimbirk:
Although I hadn’t expected it, Mr. Kimbirk interrupted his lunch to take my call, hear our story, and offer immediate assistance. Despite a heavy workload involving even more serious matters, Mr. Kimbirk took the time to hear the merits of this case.
He provided credible assurance that these very serious charges could be resolved fairly promptly. Given the fears and anguish we faced, his expertise, credible good words and kind manner were of much comfort.
Without Mr. Kimbirk’s kind and diligent attention and willingness to tolerate intrusive interruptions, my son would have remained jailed among hardened criminals far longer. Even if ultimately declared or found innocent, he’d by then have lost many weeks or months of freedom, his job, his reputation, and so much more.
As the police and the Prosecutor’s office were relentlessly preparing to send my son to prison, Tony Kimbirk’s steady efforts secured his prompt release and withdrawal of all charges within 48 hours.
In the ensuing weeks, this fine lawyer voluntarily followed up by phone and mail to assist us further. Although I‘m in New Jersey and have never met him, securing fast and effective help from Mr. Kimbirk and his staff was as easy as if I were right in his office.
During this frightening period, Mr. Kimbirk returned each of my telephone calls promptly and timely responded to my e-mail in spite of a 3 hour time zone difference. Clearly, he works long hours.
I found his performance, timeliness and accessibility and that of his staff truly impressive.
Tony Kimbirk is a skilled lawyer who communicates effectively, well, and efficiently.
He does so with his clients and, most importantly, with his clients’ adversaries.
Our family is most grateful to him.
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18 May, 2011 by John abraham=licensed general building contractor
Mr. Vanwagenen has helped me two times personally defend myself in Riverside County, California with great success. He has also successfully helped a friend of mine when I recomended Mr Van wagenen to her. She was looking at a nine year sentence that didn't come to pass after Mr Vanwagenen stepped in to represent her. He is a true professional with "traditional values" and a "heart and soul".
He really cares about his clients. This is the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure of having represent me or my close friends in any criminal matter. Forget the rest, this guy is the best. A "winner" in every aspect, and he is of the highest caliber of human being created. Thank you Jeffery A. Vanwagenen for all your help.
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12 Jan, 2020 by Daelani s.
21 Jan, 2025 by Raymundo garcia
24 Dec, 2024 by Michael a
We’re so thankful for this law group. When my family was feeling stressed and confused about a legal matter, we found GGK based on many excellent reviews. The secretary was kind and professional in accepting our call and after a brief hold offered us a same day in person conference with a lawyer in their office in Riverside. Charles Kenyon met with us and treated us with kindness and respect. He listened with empathy. He has many years of experience and he was able to educate us with his legal advice and provide different perspectives. I am forever thankful to Mr Kenyon and his group and would highly recommend GGK.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jasmin asistio
I highly recommend this law firm. Especially Atty Dan Greenberg. He was so accommodating and replies to all our messages promptly even if passed office hours. He answers all our questions and explains all possibilities clearly. Easy to make appointment. And most of all they made my husband’s charges dismissed.
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26 Apr, 2021 by David
Paul Grech not only fought for me every step of the way through my case, but he also genuinely took an interest in me and my struggle. He is a compassionate man who cares deeply for those he represents. His staff was also very attentive and always got back to me with any question that I had along the way.
I am so grateful that I went with Paul, I cant imagine being treated better and having a better result.!! Thank You Paul.!!
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01 Apr, 2021 by Y.o
I was referred to Mr. Grech through my divorce lawyer, after being in 15 years of relationship resulted in a big mess. He met me in person and took so much time to listen and understand me as a person. I opened up to him, told him everything that happened and I immediately knew that I could trust him from bottom of my heart. As I went through the most toughest time of my life, he treated me with courtesy and kindness, not a once I felt I was rushed or unworthy. Mr. Grech is very personable and genuine person. It was my great fortune to have him represent me. I would like to express my gratitude towards him and his support throughout my case.
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14 Jun, 2020 by Christopher
Mr. Grech and Team I thoroughly recommend. There are excellent attorneys in the Riverside area, but Paul is arguably one of the best.
His team did a fantastic job for our family; they went above and beyond a transactional financial client-attorney relationship. They were professional, honest, and importantly, showed genuine interest in our family’s well-being.
I was facing child endangerment criminal charges, because of allegations by a school mandated reporter. Unfortunately, this is a parent’s worst nightmare, because these allegations can destroy careers and families.
Mr. Grech successfully persuaded the DA to dismiss the original charges in exchange for disturbing the peace infraction (PC. 415(2)) and a nominal fine. Only an attorney of his caliber (30 years+ experience) would have got this outcome.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Jesus macias
El es UN buen abogado Paul trabajo muy Bien en El casa de mi hijo y estoy muy agradecido con El abogado Paul lin muchas gracias Paul por defender a mi hijo
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23 Oct, 2024 by J b
If you find yourself looking for a criminal defense attorney, do not hesitate hiring Graham. He is an incredible lawyer and a good man who moves with utmost confidence in the court room. My family member was looking at potentially serving years; Graham got him community service and probation (they were not minor charges). HIGHLY recommend him. God bless Mr. Donath and his team.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Amy
It’s an insane, long story that you probably only watch on a bad Lifetime movie. Let’s just say, Graham saved my life, knowing I was innocent, and protected me against injustice. I had never been arrested before and was referred to Graham by a former colleague. Trust me, and I swear on everyone and everything in my life (a tiny blasphemous), if you unfortunately need a lawyer, go to Graham. Also, his assistants and paralegals and counsel are the best!! :) again, he saved my life and everything I worked for.
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10 Jul, 2024 by S. mills
I spoke to founding partner Paul Wallin this morning. He was extremely knowledgeable, responsive and helpful, giving me the immense benefit of his 40 years of practice. I would highly recommend contacting his firm if and when the need arises.
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23 May, 2024 by Kevin w
I am very grateful for finding Wallin and Klarich Law Firm. I had the pleasure of working with Attorney William Felix. He is very knowledgeable, responsive, reliable, thorough, and very kind. He is very compassionate and explained what to expect on my case from the beginning to the end with a lot of patience. He responded to all my texts and calls even during his busiest times. He also stayed very active throughout my case, communicated, and listened very well. I also wanted to mention that Attorney Felix is a very professional lawyer and expressed a genuine concern for my well-being. One example of his professionalism was displayed on the day of the court hearing as Attorney Felix made sure we moved to a quieter area to discuss my legal options and made sure all terms and conditions were understood fully and completely. Attorney Felix’s outstanding professionalism and efficiency exceeded my expectation throughout the entire process from beginning to end, leading to obtaining the best possible outcome.
I highly recommend Wallin and Klarich and his team to my family and friends for a job well done. Thank you so much for assigning Attorney Felix to my case. A well deserved 5 stars review.
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14 May, 2024 by Ryan campbell
helped me immensely to clear my name. 24/7 access, fast response time, made me feel secure about my defense from false allegations to dismissal. They gave me my life back.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Pedro
I can’t thank Mohammad Qazi enough for their incredible work. I was facing multiple felony and gun charges, and from the moment I hired him, they gave me confidence and peace of mind. Not only did they protect my reputation, but they also made the entire process stress-free. His expertise, dedication, and attention to detail were truly unmatched. They handled my case with professionalism and fought tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. If you’re looking for the best criminal lawyer, look no further Mohammad Qazi is the one you want in your corner!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shd
He is very incompetent he did not respect me .very bad
And he doesn't care.
And he is not courageous
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17 Apr, 2024 by Henry herrera
Muy buen servicio me brindaron estoy agradecido que mi caso salió muy bien, 100 % recomendable
Gracias Law Offices of David Chesley
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11 Nov, 2024 by Rosa garcia
Estoy muy agradecida con Abogado José Alfaro y su equipo de trabajo son muy profesionales Y amables al resolver cada una de mis preguntas, En 6 meses Obtuve mi permiso de trabajo y de entrada, Gracias a Dios y a José Alfaro Law, no lo podía creer volví a ver a mi familia después de 20 años Y pude regresar con éxito a mi ciudad en California, Gracias José Alfaro Law.🙏✨
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26 Sep, 2024 by Alberto cardozo
muy buen abogado!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Raul quijada
Excelente firma, abogado Jose Alfaro muy transparente con el proceso, muy servicial, todo se cumplió con lo que el me explico al inicio, recomendado cien por ciento!!
Muchas gracias abogado por su servicio y le deseo mucho más éxito.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Rosa garcia
Estoy muy agradecida con Abogado José Alfaro y su equipo de trabajo son muy profesionales Y amables al resolver cada una de mis preguntas, En 6 meses Obtuve mi permiso de trabajo y de entrada, Gracias a Dios y a José Alfaro Law, no lo podía creer volví a ver a mi familia después de 20 años Y pude regresar con éxito a mi ciudad en California, Gracias José Alfaro Law.🙏✨
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26 Sep, 2024 by Alberto cardozo
muy buen abogado!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Raul quijada
Excelente firma, abogado Jose Alfaro muy transparente con el proceso, muy servicial, todo se cumplió con lo que el me explico al inicio, recomendado cien por ciento!!
Muchas gracias abogado por su servicio y le deseo mucho más éxito.
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22 Jan, 2015 by Jane doe
Ms. Sebastian worked hard to get the best result in my child abuse case. I appreciated her professionalism and willingness to return my phone calls. I would recommend her to others seeking a child abuse attorney.
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29 Jan, 2014 by Severiano.rodriguez
mr. attorney gary s. roth work on my multiple case on 1984, when i. was a victim b-y someone. mr. attorney did. a exellent job i. will never forget. that. god bless. hem. thankyou. mr. attorney irially appreciate what. you did for all .
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28 Apr, 2021 by Daisy
Carmen was very attentive and helpful through our immigration process. She is kind and has a true passion for helping others. We have nothing but praise for the quality of work that she provided. She made us feel comfortable and at ease throughout this intimidating process. We can not thank her enough
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13 Aug, 2013 by Lloyd
One heck of a trial lawyer. One of a very few in the Inland Empire. He was recommended to my family by another client after I had 3 others representing me in a murder case. I was acquitted. An excellent trial lawyer.
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12 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Ryan Markson saved my life. I was looking at 14 counts of sexual misconduct that would have landed me in prison for 170 years to life. The DA was not offering anything. Markson destroyed the credibility of the complaining witness, got me acquitted of one count, and hung the rest heavily in favor of not guilty. I subsequently entered a plea to a much lesser charge (one count).
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15 Dec, 2024 by Nehemiah
Excellent service, felt comfortable and felt like I was in good hands the whole time. I would positively recommend him to family and friends.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Rai b
08 Nov, 2023 by Malcolm momjian
Mr. Galasso is extremely professional and knowledgeable in the legal field. Every court date i had was quick and i was extremely satisfied with the way the process went. I'd recommend Joe to anyone in need of a professional, friendly, & just well rounded attorney/individual overall!
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29 Aug, 2023 by Christina singley
Mr. GALLASO is a blessing. I do feel that god put him in my path. I can't thank him for all his hard work and taking my case . He is willing help. Honest man . Thank you for helping me get my freedom back and just for everything.If you are looking for a lawyer that gonna be honest and go above and beyond look no more contact Mr.Gallaso !!!May The lord continue to Bless you and your family always .
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11 Feb, 2020 by Marc
Ms. McDonnell was recommended to me by a co-worker, who was on the opposing side of Ms. McDonnell but was very impressed by her approach and demeanor in Court. Everything, my co-worker stated about Sheryl was true. Sheryl was very knowledgeable regarding my case and what my ex-wife and her attorney filed. Sheryl reported based off their filings that they had no grounds to file as the Court had already ruled on the matter at the prior hearing. Sheryl filed her brief and argued her point at my trial. The Court heard both sides and ruled in my favor and denied my ex- wife's filing. I had to spend money to save money but well worth it. Sheryl was aggressive and would not put up with the opposing attorney's games in Court. She was well prepared and defended my case well. If you want a knowledgeable attorney and aggressive attorney Sheryl fits both.
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24 Jan, 2020 by Mary
I selected Ms. McDonnell because of her reputation for tenacity. She came highly recommended by the people that know best...other lawyers.
I had checked with a few attorneys and when they heard who I was up against...they insisted I meet with Ms. McDonnell. They were right!
She is class, with a little bit of pitbull. She was always prepared for court and her legal analysis of the law and facts was completely on point. No matter what the other side or the judge said...she never stopped until everyone in the courtroom understood the nuances of my case. She was nothing short of amazing.
I see posts online about her billing or costs. You get what you pay for. When children and property are at stake...you don't want some $1,500 flat fee hack that won't research every detail of your case. Her fees are reasonable and like I said...she earned it all when she stepped into the courtroom.
Have a tough case? Call Sheryl. You owe it to your kids and your pension to call her!
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08 Apr, 2019 by Aaron
Without even giving me a chance to explain my case she was very rude to the point she cussed me out threw my paper work. At no time did i treat her badly or disrespect her in any way! She is very unprofessional she should be disbarred for shoddy professionalism! The worst part is this was just a consult and it lasted only 5 minutes before she threatened to call the police after i asked for my paper work back and kicked me out of her office! She also kept my $50 fee that was supposed to be for an hour! I should of know something was going to go wrong when she didn't want my husband to come with me into her office!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Laura cardenas
12 Feb, 2025 by Juan anthony cabrera
En primer lugar muy agradecido con DIOS y con la abogada por su trabajo y con todo a su equipo. hace unos días tuve la oportunidad de recibir mi tarjeta de residencia permanente
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16 Jan, 2025 by Daniel reyes
Muy rápido el trámite, todo bien e incluso la atención
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19 Feb, 2025 by Grafik productions
Best lawyer I could ever have hired for my case just got out of court and got justice and my custody for my daughter thank you for you service I highly recommend it
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10 Nov, 2024 by Abed ali
I went and explained everything to Xavier and he told me he will help me but I discovered that they are scammers. He told me everything will be ready after two days. I discovered that they did not do anything on my papers, and then I called them to see what happened, but their answer shocked me. What is your case and what are its details? They forgot everything, even though I sent them everything by email. But when I spoke to them, the price changed and rose insanely. The agreement was from the beginning on something clear and specific, but I discovered that they are scammers and they do not care about your case or anything except the money. It is all lies upon lies.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Grace pahlinha
I found this law firm to be more harmful than helpful to our case. It originally went well until the payment terms of our settlement agreement was changed without our knowledge while we waited for the check to arrive. It was not disclosed until the check was already cut to include their name on the check which, was not on the agreement we signed. From there, an additional large amount was invoiced to keep some of it and we are still trying to get it back nearly a year later. I think the shocking part was being billed over 40k for work they did not even do. Took a year to receive our files to even discover that. A material expert witness opinion was also never shown to us before settlement. I gave 2 stars for the law clerk who did help a bit but this firm should stick to defending DUI's and dealing with probate. Personal injury, med mal, and elder cases will fail here.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Suzy hackworth
The worst family law attorney. Laurel is extremely hard to get a hold of. She did not explain legal terminology when I filled out forms for my divorce which has now resulted in lifelong spousal support. She had someone from her office call at the last minute to say that if I don’t submit certain information by that day then I would be fined $5,000 when I was never asked to submit the info prior to that moment. Overall she did not act in my best interest. I really regret hiring her.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia martinez
Amazing Great job keep going
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17 Dec, 2023 by Jennifer garcia
Laura Buchanan and her associates are some of the best attorneys around they absolutely are worth the money and I recommend them to everybody... I have retained them numerous times and they have never fail me than u to all of them they have picked up calls from me even on her weekend and night and talked me threw my brake downs and i will for ever be grateful to all of them.thank u again .....
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12 Dec, 2024 by Art alba
Thank you Omega Law, getting into an accident was very frightening but they guided me through it all.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Luis trejo
Excellent law firm, they were quick with the whole process. After an accident on my motorcycle, they made quick work to make sure I was reimbursed and taken care of. They deligated with the insurance and explained any and all documents to make sure I was aware of everything and received the most compensation.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Sam cohen
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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.
