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22 Nov, 2023 by Betty
Thank to Mr Lugo he is a great person and do excellent work with my daughter case thank you so much,
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07 Jun, 2022 by Eduardo
Great attorney. He helped me with my criminal case. I'm very grateful to him and his staff. I will highly recommend him.
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17 May, 2022 by Ignacio lopez
This attorney was my third attorney on my criminal case. The other two attorneys had flaked out but this attorney was able to help me out and close out my case. I came out free of the charges that were pending against me and I’m grateful to him for my freedom.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Jones a
This team is awesome. Stacy got my divorce done quickly . All my thanks and gratitude for a job well done.
A Jones
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26 Jul, 2024 by Christina nobriga
My husband and I set up our trust with Ms. La Madrid's office and every single individual was professional, competent, helpful, and easy to work with! They answered the many questions we had, provided helpful suggestions, and demonstrated patience and understanding every step of the way. I would highly recommend Ms. La Madrid and her office to anyone interested in trust and estate planning!
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16 May, 2024 by Francisco villa
03 Aug, 2022 by Joan
Mark Cantrell is an amazing attorney. I will begin by saying he was a court appointed attorney, meaning it was almost working for free, however he worked on this case as it he was being paid on a normal basis. This client is mentally handicapped, however he treated him wonderfully well and he ended up with only 2 years probation. The ins and outs of this case were very difficult to stay on top of however, even with all his other cases, either he personally returned out call or his assistant did. I would have him handle any case I had that needed an attorney.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Jairon
I have him saved in my phone under best lawyer. I was referred to him by a former client who said he was the best. After having him represent me, now I KNOW he is the best. Hands down. I live in Atlanta GA and he represented me for a case in California and did a better job than I could have imagined. Thank you Mark from the bottom of my heart. he really went to bat for me.
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11 Nov, 2021 by Brandon
Mr. Cantrell is an excellent professional with a wealth experience and knowledge. I was a juror for a case and Mr. Cantrell did a great job! He is also an outstanding member of the community. Thank you for your work, Mr. Cantrell!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Matt l
I dont usually leave reviews but beleive hard work deserves to be rewarded. Chris and his team are very responsive almost always answering the phone on the first try and when they are unable to answer they mesage to let you know that they have received your correspondence and they will get back to you as soon as posible. They are always willing to take the time to explain the things I do not understand which means alot during this stressful time always being forth coming about the situation but also being willing to put in the extra effort to try to better my situation I really appreciate all the hard work and dedication.
Thanks Chris and team.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Edgar bielfelt
Everything went exactly as they said it would. I would highly recommend these folks anytime.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Anthony hysell
I recently had the privilege of working with Chris. My wife and I came with our four children to his office and were pleasantly surprised by the casual and welcoming feeling. From the moment I met Chris, it was clear that he genuinely cared about our situation. He immediately wanted to ensure we would get the best possible result, and his dedication was evident in every step he took.
Chris is incredibly personable and easy to talk to, which made a world of difference. He took the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring that I understood all my options. Chris has a remarkable ability to interpret the law instantly, and his experience and knowledge provided us with a sense of security and hope.
Chris's empathy and professionalism helped us overcome every obstacle on our path to a fresh start. If you are looking for an attorney who genuinely cares about your situation and works tirelessly to achieve the best outcome, I highly recommend Chris and his team."
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21 Sep, 2024 by Jones a
This team is awesome. Stacy got my divorce done quickly . All my thanks and gratitude for a job well done.
A Jones
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26 Jul, 2024 by Christina nobriga
My husband and I set up our trust with Ms. La Madrid's office and every single individual was professional, competent, helpful, and easy to work with! They answered the many questions we had, provided helpful suggestions, and demonstrated patience and understanding every step of the way. I would highly recommend Ms. La Madrid and her office to anyone interested in trust and estate planning!
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16 May, 2024 by Francisco villa
30 Jun, 2022 by Gabriel garcia (gabe)
18 Feb, 2022 by Daniel caballero
Castillo Harper, APC is the BEST in all of Law Enforcement Legal Representation. I have been in law enforcement for the past 22 years and never had any issues that Brandi Harper could handle with ease. Brandi is very knowledgeable in her field and has great communication skills which makes her so approachable and great to work with. Brandi has been working with our police union as a legal representative during contract negotiations, and has worked relentlessly to get our union what we deserve. Brandi is a hardworking and persevering lawyer who you can depend on at zero dark thirty hours when an officer involved shooting occurs. She has been available many countless nights with a single phone call. Brandi always answers her phone no matter what time it is and is ready for any police issues that arise. I sincerely recommend Brandi as Lawyer and Castillo Harper, APC for any legal representation.
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25 Jun, 2021 by Tom coyote canyon
Made multiple attempts to have them contact me for consultation, they have been unresponsive
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30 Jun, 2022 by Gabriel garcia (gabe)
18 Feb, 2022 by Daniel caballero
Castillo Harper, APC is the BEST in all of Law Enforcement Legal Representation. I have been in law enforcement for the past 22 years and never had any issues that Brandi Harper could handle with ease. Brandi is very knowledgeable in her field and has great communication skills which makes her so approachable and great to work with. Brandi has been working with our police union as a legal representative during contract negotiations, and has worked relentlessly to get our union what we deserve. Brandi is a hardworking and persevering lawyer who you can depend on at zero dark thirty hours when an officer involved shooting occurs. She has been available many countless nights with a single phone call. Brandi always answers her phone no matter what time it is and is ready for any police issues that arise. I sincerely recommend Brandi as Lawyer and Castillo Harper, APC for any legal representation.
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25 Jun, 2021 by Tom coyote canyon
Made multiple attempts to have them contact me for consultation, they have been unresponsive
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30 Jun, 2022 by Gabriel garcia (gabe)
18 Feb, 2022 by Daniel caballero
Castillo Harper, APC is the BEST in all of Law Enforcement Legal Representation. I have been in law enforcement for the past 22 years and never had any issues that Brandi Harper could handle with ease. Brandi is very knowledgeable in her field and has great communication skills which makes her so approachable and great to work with. Brandi has been working with our police union as a legal representative during contract negotiations, and has worked relentlessly to get our union what we deserve. Brandi is a hardworking and persevering lawyer who you can depend on at zero dark thirty hours when an officer involved shooting occurs. She has been available many countless nights with a single phone call. Brandi always answers her phone no matter what time it is and is ready for any police issues that arise. I sincerely recommend Brandi as Lawyer and Castillo Harper, APC for any legal representation.
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25 Jun, 2021 by Tom coyote canyon
Made multiple attempts to have them contact me for consultation, they have been unresponsive
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20 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the unfortunate experience of trying to hire Mr. Brownlee for my legal needs, and I must say, it has been a nightmare trying to reach him. From the very beginning, communication has been a major issue. Despite sending emails he never responded to, and leaving phone messages he doesn’t return, I have received no response. It's incredibly frustrating to feel ignored when you're seeking professional help.
In the legal field, timely communication is crucial, and Robert Brownlee has failed miserably in this regard. Beyond the lack of communication, the overall level of service provided was disappointing. I expected a certain degree of professionalism and dedication, but instead, I was left feeling abandoned.
If you're considering hiring Robert Brownlee, I strongly advise against it. There are plenty of capable lawyers out there who value their clients and maintain open lines of communication. Save yourself the stress and frustration—look elsewhere for legal representation.
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30 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Brownlee helped me negotiate my case and won without ever setting foot in a court room. I presented him my evidence and he did the research and did all he could to help me in my time of need. He has great communication skills and is very professional. Also didn't charge me an arm and a leg, just what he thought was fair. I will continue to use him in the future and highly recommend him to anyone.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I've used Mr. Brownlee on several occasions. The first experience was when our landlards weren't accepting our rent money and taking us to court and were saying we weren't paying them so they can move back in. He fought for us 3 different times and got the job done. My latest experience was with the family law courts. He basically defended me when the other parent tried to bash my character and get full custody of the kids. I presented him my evidence and he went to work and did all he could and won my case. He has great communication skills and is very professional. I will continue to use him in the future if I need to.
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12 Aug, 2021 by Chad
Mr Grande took care of my situation without any problems. 100% satisfied with the outcome & total experience. If you need an attorney he’s the Man!!! Thank you again.
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30 Jun, 2020 by Ben
I retained David and his firm for a case back in 2014, I was nervous because it was my first legal problem in life. He ensured me that the legal issue would be resolved in a manner that would avoid me losing the ability to live a normal life. He delivered a successful case result and all charges were DISMISSED. I later filed and was granted a petition for factual innocence, meaning there is not even a record of the legal matter anymore. I recommend David and his law firm to anyone seeking legal advice or assistance in the Inland Empire area.
-Ben
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28 Aug, 2018 by Depocoming
Grande took $8,000.00 in a fee agreement. I went to court, he was not there, the court stated no charges were filed. I went back to him, he made a call to the DA.
The DA confirmed there was no reason the Riverside County deputy should have written the ticket. I had paid Grande $8K in case ( ( I knew I had done nothing wrong) Grande then refused to give me my retainer back after he only made a few calls to confirm no charges were filed. I eventually got 10% back. He is now on a list of wrongdoers in Riverside, cA.
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05 May, 2022 by Yara v
My family and I are extremely grateful to have had Jeff represent my brother. He goes on and beyond to advocate for his clients. He is quiet at times and doesn’t like to talk much about the case over the phone because he looks out for your best interest. He is very detail oriented and his calmness keeps you sane. He constantly keeps you updated and gives you reassurance when needed. My family and I highly recommend Mr. Moore. Our results weren’t the best but we know he gave it his all at all times. Thank you Jeff for giving 110% in my brothers case.
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22 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Constantly berated me and pushed me to sign a plea bargain for a Felony. His fee was almost $30,000 for this treatment. Never discussed the positive merits of my case. I was vulnerable at the time and he took full advantage of my situation. Find a different attorney.
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07 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Jeff represented me twice. He plead down without consulting me and does not communicate well. He charges a ton of money upfront for little to no results.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Xavier mcdaniel
You’re better off jumping in a pool full of sharks and hoping not to get bit than hiring these con artists. The lawyer they assigned not only didn’t do his job but was working in the favor of the state by not communicating critical elements of the case but simultaneously documenting that he did. They are a criminal organization that should be shut down and the person who owns it should be jailed indefinitely!
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29 Sep, 2022 by Diana palin
I cannot give enough praise to the efforts of this law firm. I was charged with DUI and I didn't know what to do, this firm took my case and in no time, my case was dropped and I was just asked to participate in community services. Thank you, thank you!
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21 Sep, 2022 by Leonel leach
Everyone needs an attorney with passion for their job, compassion for their clients, and willingness to listen to their every problem. They are simply amazing in what they do. Highly recommended Riverside law firm!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jose
Earl has been representing me on my family law case since 2018. I could honestly say that his knowledge and representation exceeds what I thought a great lawyer would be. I would never have anyone else represent me since meeting Earl, he is basically part of my family now. Anyone who is looking for someone who is honest and will tell you like it is and fight for you, then you should hire Earl Robertson III Esq.!!!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Trinidad
Earl went above and beyond handling my grandmother's case. He worked numerous hours to gather all information needed. Earl even set up late evening consultations to accommodate my family members schedule. He was by our side each and every court hearing. Earl did everything in his power to represent us with the utmost attention. He demonstrated professionalism and wit.
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10 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Robertson by the Riverside County Bar Association for help with an ongoing issue of the other party in my custody case refusing to follow any of our court orders. Mr. Robertson was very condescending and treated me like I’m the one who’s wrong because I want the order followed for once after over 200 violations. He also made a remark insinuating I’m just looking for money when, again, I’m just asking for what’s already been ordered to actually be paid.
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11 Dec, 2021 by David
I got myself into some difficult legal troubles. I shopped around for a good defense attorney and hired one. After speaking with friends/family, I was advised it would be in my best interest to hire a GREAT attorney as the possible consequences are extreme.
It's difficult to distinguish between a good vs mediocre law firm via the internet. I began to research on-line but ultimately reached out to many business professionals for attorney references. In the end, Blumenthal & Moore Law Offices came highly recommended. I met with many different Law Firms for consultations; all said it would be a tough case and incarceration was likely.
I had legal troubles as an adult-teen and so have some experience with attorneys and our criminal justice system. I'm 39 now and have changed my life for the better. Unfortunately, my past continues to haunt me, the strike I received at 19 is now doubling the time I can receive and be sentenced to prison. I was looking at almost 2 decades of prison time.
Blumenthal & Moore Law Offices is not the type of firm that will hold your hand, give you a hug and tell you it's going to be ok. This Law Firm is about results and making the legal system work for its clients. They have been great about satisfying my desires and wishes with my criminal case. I am a free man today as a direct result of everything that Virginia Blumenthal, Brent Romney, Jeff Moore and Roberta Garcia have done in my case. My family and will forever remain grateful to Virginia, Brent and all their firm's staff.
I highly recommend this Law Firm if you are seeking experienced, knowledgeable, determined, professional and superior trail attorneys. If my personal friends and/or family are ever in need of legal representation, I will only recommend Blumenthal & Moore Law Offices! They will produce results!
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26 Dec, 2020 by Dave
I was falsely accused of sexual assault in Riverside. I was told Virginia would be the best for the case. I went to her and told her my story. She told me she could help. These were serious accusations so I gave her firm the 30k retainer. She told me that she could get me probation and that she went to law school with the judge for my case and that would help me out big-time. I also hired Dan Greenberg to work alongside her which was another 10k. I even passed a polygraph test. When it came down to it she wouldn't answer my calls. She waited until the very last minute on the court date to respond to me causing an extra load of added stress to me and my family's life. Dan Greenberg was the only one who would respond to me. On the sentencing day, she told me that I would only get probation and that she knew the judge personally, no prison time. The deal was a max of 3 years in prison and that's exactly what I got. She didn't help worth a sh&t. She turned her back on me. Dan Greenberg helped me more than her firm did. I went to prison for a crime I didn't commit. When Virginia looked at my case she ONLY examined the false police report. She never put ANY effort to look into the facts about my case. It was the worse 30k I ever spent in my life. I would recommend that anyone thinking of hiring her law firm to help with any SERIOUS case, should go to Greenberg. I don't really care for Greenberg either because I still went to prison even with both Virginia and Greenberg represented me. I went to San Quentin for 2 years and am now a felon on parole for 10 years and I feel it is 100% Virginia's fault for lying to me and for not even putting ANY effort to looking at the facts of my case. I would definitely go to Dan Greenberg for your criminal case instead of Virginia. He pissed me off but at least he will be straight with you 100%.
Please don't make the same mistake that I did. Hire a firm that cares and will actually do some work instead of just taking your $$. I can prove this is not a fake review by showing my receipts for Virginia's firm. She should NOT have a good rating on these reviews at all! She is a discrace to the BAR.
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15 Sep, 2015 by Richard
Blumenthal Law came highly recommended to us when we were seeking legal counsel that could expertly, efficiently and tenaciously represent us in a very complicated case. Before we had left the office, Virginia and her team had solidified an action plan that put us at ease. The team’s sense of urgency signaled to us the level of care and dedication it gives clients. In the course of adjudication we were kept informed at every turn. No surprises. It was such a relief to know our case was in the best hands possible. As longtime Riverside residents, we highly recommend Blumenthal Law to anyone needing the very best in criminal defense.
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30 Jan, 2019 by Maria
Mr. Clark's office was referred to me by another "respected" attorney specifically to get a critical step in my case (motion) accomplished. We could not move forward until this was done, so we needed the best. I was also advised by various people that if anyone could get/wanted something done in Riverside County, Clark could. Well, rest assured, the team came thru with flying colors and got my motion granted. So I wanted to pass the word around to anyone needing good advice and help. God Bless Everyone
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16 Oct, 2018 by Magdalena
I am very satisfied with Mr. Miles Clark and greatful because he did a great job with my case and I'd definentally recomend these lawyers to anyone.
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01 Sep, 2017 by Adrian
Mr. Clark handled my criminal case. He was able to get my charges dismissed. I was very happy with his professionalism.
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13 Jan, 2021 by Kamie
Amazing best attorney I've ever had helped me with my social security case got it approved right away before him I was waiting three years and after he took on my case I got it right away 5 Stars if I could give more I would thank you Richard cornero I appreciate everything you've done for me you're an amazing attorney there should be more with your etiquette and your demeanor you're an amazing human being thank you so much
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06 May, 2020 by Frank
Mr. Carnero was hired as my attorney when I was being charged with street terrorism (gang enhancement) and did marvelous job. Before taking my case he came to visit me at West Valley and assured me that he would get my charges dropped and that's exactly what he did. I was then able to get a reduced sentence. Well worth the money.
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25 May, 2019 by Anonymous
We had paid Mr. Carnero to help with expungement of a case from 1998. Over the course of about 3 years, we are still in the same spot from which we started. He would come back with reasons he could not do it, and every time we would provide information showing we had fixed what he asked. He stated that there was a warrant which we knew nothing about. It was paid that day and he would still say that it was not completed when he had the receipt in his file. When we went in the last time, he pointed the blame at us stating that we had not called, and we took too long. This was after failed appointments on Mr. Carnero's behalf and not returning calls as well. He didn't have the case information in front of him, so when we reminded him of the case he didn't look up once from his phone. What was more important that your client that you could not put your phone away for 5-10 minutes?? He then kicked us out of his office since he clearly had no answers for us. He has taken our money and never completed what was asked of him. He will not sign a substitution of Attorney form nor provide us our case file. We will be filing a direct complaint with the California State Law Board as well. He is extremely rude and incompetent in performing the task in which he claims he can do for his clientele. Save your money and DO NOT HIRE THIS MAN!
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14 Feb, 2024 by Rich a
Mark and his team did an amazing job at helping me get my record cleared. They kept in touch and informed me of every step along the way. Highly recommend.
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20 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Mario Rivas is the worst!! Hired to represent in a Family Law case and did nothing. Would arrive to court late and not communicate with us. Always in a hurry and had no time to discuss the case. When at the final mediation stage he requested $5000 to continue the case and dropped. Failed to archive documents with the court. Always had an excuse. Has a secreatary who is rude and condesending as well. Please do NOT use this Mario Rivas to represent you. You're only spending money for no results. See his other reviews.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Melissa lucero
03 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I was facing 16 months in prison for a SERIOUS drug charge, DUI, and child endangerment. Sean was able to get me a 120 day jail sentence which I was able to serve on home detention. Four years probation, 16 weeks of DUI classes, 52 weeks of child endangerment classes. After completing all my classes, paying all fines and completing my house arrest we went back to court and Sean was able to have my probation terminated early and completly expunge my record of all charges. If you have a case in Riverside county Sean is the man!
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14 Mar, 2024 by Jdeeley2
I hired him and payed him upfront(which is normal i guess). He proceeded with the hearings for me, and when it came to settle he didnt even show up! He sent someone that knew nothing about my case/previous case. He tries to trick you into settling fast to make his life easier, they told me the courts wanted a 4 month program, but failed to tell me the DMV required me to do 18 month if i wanna drive again. I have hear they do this to ALOT of people!
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26 Apr, 2023 by Jimmy
I hire Sean in 2009 for an attempted murder case, of course it take some time, but man o man I WON MY CASE. This man knows his law, thank GOD for him.
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25 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN AWAY FROM MR EXUM !
He will only try and cut a deal where it lands you in prison even if the case is a misdemeanor.
My cousin made the mistake to pay him upfront in full and is facing prison time for a first time offense .
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31 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Workers are very unprofessional specially getting with clients who are married.
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23 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired mr Exum for my criminal case. He was very rude to me. His communication was horrible. He’d say he’d call me never would. He even at one point told me to find a new attorney and hung up in my face after I paid half of my retainer fee. He moved my court dates without my knowledge. I don’t feel as if he really fought for me considering my case was a weak one and I’ve never been in trouble. I walked away with a felony and I’m only 24 years old. He also left me after I was convicted in court to figure everything out on my own. He wasn’t trying to help me win he just wanted to get a plea deal and be content with himself. Find a better attorney.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr.valdez is incompetent and unprofessional he did nothing to stop Riverside county child protective services from throwing me out of my home and taking me away from my children one in which was not even 2 months old I addressed the fact they came to my home without a warrant and without even filling the petition in court yet made false statements made by the worker in the petition filed and falsified test results from a laboratory that did not exist and and should have had Riverside community hospital as the letter head that they were not allowing me and my children visitation or providing me with reunification services I was forced to be homeless in the streets because he wouldn't address my concerns with the court he instead treated me as if i was guilty or with disregard even tried to tell me i had only came to one hearing when i had went to everyone of them even when i had to sit outside in my car the whole day mr.valdez asked if i wanted to testify i told him yes the day i was suppose to testify he said are you sure i told him yes then he told me oh i told them no and whet with what he thought was best well now they terminated services and gave my children to my ex i tried to fire him and the jude judge told me no
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29 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Brent Valdez only offered the absolute WORST legal representation possible. This "Lawyer" did absolutely nothing for me in my case, and could not even offer proper advice concerning what to do next in the case. He actually damaged my case, and I walked away with more problems because of him. After I fumbled through the legal process, with absolutely no guidance from Mr. Valdez, or follow up from him after court hearings - he turns around and tells me after the case closed, that "you made terrible legal decisions"!!!
Brent Valdez is combative, and argumentative with his clients. He doesn't help them to understand what is going on in their case, because he himself has no clue. When he fails terribly - he will blame you for "your bad legal decisions".
**Follow up was non-existent
**The only communication that I received from Brent Valdez during the time that he represented me, was a 5 minute talk - minutes before going into court.
**Communication skills were terrible (combative, indecisive, unclear about laws, misguiding, he does not confirm what you are saying, he takes what you say and makes false interpretations - he screwed me because he did not bother to confirm what I said to him.)
During court Brent Valdez stutter stepped at every turn when he spoke to the judge. There was no assurance that he felt comfortable, and every other word is "Uhm".
In closing - DO NOT TRUST THIS LAWYER...ever. Ultimately, I will be forced to hire another attorney to appeal the decision of the judge in this case, all because Mr. Valdez failed to properly communicate.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Ariana is a terrible public defender I've had the pleasure of being one of her clients for the last year and she has been nothing but non helpful towards me and I hope anybody looking to hire a public defender doesn't hire Ariana.
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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.
