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22 Mar, 2024 by Wynter blues
He was the worst lawyer I have ever had. He is a nice person but he never sent me regular updates of my case despite repeated requests nor did he provide me with full copies of documents he received related to my case. My separated spouse and his lawyer are threatening me with civil fines in the divorce case due to his incompetent representation. Please do not see this person!
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01 Aug, 2023 by Jessica martinez
If i could give no stars i would!!… Please DONT go to this so called “lawyer” he did not help me at all with my case. He doesn’t answer my calls, texts, or emails. The last call he took from me, which i had to call from another number because he was not answering me, he stated he was over whelmed with cases… well buddy maybe you shouldn’t take peoples money and say your going to help them, be honest with your clients and say no you cant take our case. This man is money hungry and only accepts your money without doing anything on his end.
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08 Aug, 2022 by Charles n jacqueline lindsey
Love my attorney been trying to reach unsuccessful would love to contact him
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24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
24 Oct, 2022 by Gerald wilcox
I paid Trevor Carson $7,000.00 to do work for me. He quit for no reason. I filed a complaint with State Bar. He lied 21 times to avoid discipline. I sued him in small claims court. He has missed four court dates. He sued me for threatening and harassing him. Do not trust this man. Gerald Wilcox
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28 Feb, 2022 by M h
I hired him in March of 21 to help with a state licensed cannabis business litigation. I paid about 3k for him to send one certified demand letter and about 2 emails with the company. Come to find out they had contacted him 5 times about my case during December when I had emailed him for 3 weeks (no response) asking for an update if he heard anything he said no. He never sent me the emails or told me about them (Definitely worthy of a bar complaint) he just said he was busy and was no longer able to handle my case. Mind you he charges around $34-100+ per email even if he says "no news". He and his assistant contacted me constantly until I paid then he went m.i.a. everything he did I could have done for free for myself after 1-2 hours of research. I only hired him because he led me to believe he would go to litigation with me if needed (also a lie). He also didn't tell me that as part owner of the company I can request records from the city/state myself. The absolute worst customer service and minimal knowledge. How this guy passed the bar let alone is the head of the bar in Sacramento is beyond me. I should never have to apologize for my attorneys profound incompetence or have better communication skills than him. You can find much better for cheaper than this waste of time and money.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Nathan curry
28 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Threw my spouse under the bus, refused to visit to discuss case or strategy. Put spouse on stand with no preperation and was assigned case for 4 months before going to trial. Only wanted to push for plea bargain and when plea bargin was not accpeted, she dedided not to defend her client.
If anyone is assigned this lawyer, quickly request to be reassigned, as she will not defend you
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17 Aug, 2013 by Dawn
I was appointed this Public Defender a year ago. Mr. Pytel never returned phone calls to me nor had an intake appointment with me. I had to complain to Mr. Pytel's supervisor to get a response from Mr. Pytel. Mr. Pytel also refused to believe me and refused to enter a not guilty plea for me and called me a "liar". This attorney should not be working as an attorney or at a Public Defender's office. I was forced into entering a "nolo" plea in my case because Dennis Pytel refused to represent me properly.
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21 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
After reading the previous client's review I am getting more skeptical about this attorney. I have left several messages and haven't received a response yet. The next court date is in 3 weeks and I needed to discuss the case before that. I hope he calls me back and if he can't handle the case then I wish he lets me know so I can look into other options rather than risking my family's life for something that can be resolved outside the court. When he talked to us we were relieved but then the interpreter came and told us something totally different so now we don't know what to do, who to consult and which direction to go. This is really frustrating and scary situation for someone who has never been in trouble and never had to involve law enforcement and is wiling to correct his mistakes.
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10 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Pytel recently represented me in a criminal defense matter. He was appointed to me by the court. I put my trust into his strategy for my case, and was very disappointed by his service and the outcome. I lost my trial and have been found guilty of a felony battery in which it was a matter of self defense.
I was not satisfied with Mr. Pytel's service for the following reasons:
- In the months leading up to my trial, I repeatedly asked him for copies of the police report and other documents pertaining to my case so that I may review them. He acknowledged my requests but did not actually provide me with these items until 4 days before my trial.
- He was frequently unprepared for our meetings and failed to properly explain the trial process to me.
-Mr. Pytel advised that I not testify in my own case because he stated that the previous marks on my record would discredit me. However, nothing on my record is a violent offense and now 2 other attorneys have advised me that is incorrect and my previous record would not have been admissible in the trial.
- Right before my trial, my instincts were questioning Mr. Pytel’s strategy for my case. I informed him that I did not agree with his strategy and that I was planning on getting a private attorney. Mr. Pytel talked me out of doing so and informed me it was too late to get another attorney.
- Mr. Pytel purposely left out KEY evidence that would have helped to prove my innocence in the trial. 2 other attorneys have now advised me this was a very big mistake.
There are basically a number of reasons that I would not recommend Mr. Pytel to another person. I basically felt that he truly did not make sure the court provided me with a fair trial and I truly feel that he did not put his best foot forward. Because of this, I have now consulted with 2 separate criminal defense attorneys who have confirmed my beliefs. And both attorneys have recommended that I file a motion for new trial based on ineffective counsel because of the way Mr. Pytel handled my case.
I swear the above is true to the best of my knowledge and belief.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Wei Zhong to represent me for a case. I felt that she was not very professional and only seemed to charge me for every little encounter. There were many times when I called the office to see if Wei Zhong was there and the receptionist said "no" but I was billed for the call. This attorney seemed to bill me for every little thing and took very little time to explain things clearly to me. Because of this, I don't feel that she is professional and doesn't have the client's interests at heart. She also doesn't seem to have much experience except in overbilling me which I feel may lead hear to lose my case.
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19 Oct, 2012 by Letitia
I was referred to Mr. Coleman through my church. When I first met with him he told me that people do not do right by him money wise. I didn't think anything of it cause I know sometimes people do not follow through on their payments, however, after working with him I know it is because he didn't do right by them first. No one hires an attorney to judge them, prosecute them, convict them and have them sentenced unfairly. That is exactly what happened in our situation, he worked with the prosecution and not in favor of his client. Judge not, lest ye be judged Mr. Coleman ~ God is watching you too.
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19 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer filed my paperwork for me, she is my x wifes lawyer, had served me with a tro in jail. Then was being "nice and Helped me fill out the papers" I needed to end my horrible divorce. She did not recall the restraining order and in fact kept it active for my x, now 8 years later I was almost arrested for having my kids and taking care of them 90% of the time because my X had a bad day and said she still had this thing! If I did not have my divorce papers at home I would be in jail right now!
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01 Mar, 2023 by Carrie
Jennifer charged my son a rediculous amount of money for his case and did absolutely nothing. Her retainer was 30k and we paid her every penny up front. My son was looking at life in prison. Well, while in the county jail my son heard all the horror stories about what Jen had done to other people and he fired her. We thought we would get back the whole $30,000, but instead she kept it all! Not only is she a bad attorney, she is a horrible person and totally fake. She should be an actress. She came to see him only once with crazy promises and was never in court. She was fired after only two weeks. The public defender at my sons arainment was 100 times more knowledgeable and real. She even uses a fake name on here! She was once a DA and got fired for DUI and assaulting the police. She told the police "do you know who I am" with additude. I thank God they arrested her. She should be in prison more so than half her clients. She is so pathetic she even pays people for five star reviews. When I heard that, it didn't surprise me. Watch out everyone.
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01 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I am the relative of a client of Mr. Karowsky. My relative was facing some serious charges and was not happy with the work Jan was providing. Jan assured him he was working diligently on the case. When things continued to decline, Jan said it was the fault of his investigator. Jan then fired his investigator and brought in "the best".
The end result was my relative getting the maximum sentence and Jan taking no responsibility for it.
I do not doubt Jan is very educated and talented. However, his lack of honesty, lack of responsiveness and his unwillingness to take responsibility for anything are traits not becoming of a criminal defense attorney.
I do not recommend this attorney.
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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.
