Lawyers map
>359
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
7 Reviews
5.0
131 Reviews
05 Dec, 2024 by Kim braun
Highly recommend Mr. Cavanagh. He and his associates made what was a difficult case for me very straightforward. Very communicative and helpful.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Jimmy tietjens
15 Nov, 2024 by Antione pearson
I can confidently state without hesitation this Law Firm is A1, and second to none. I had the pleasure of having Kirk Wittner handle a civil suit against a company called LNLV Funding very predatory in nature and will cross hard lines to try and serve you even it means violating the law. Mr.Wittner played 0 games and was an absolute shark when he needed to be causing the company to back peddle and change the script during phone calls to try and settle the matter . I never appeared one time in court and they knew not to push Mr.Wittner. With that said if you’re having an issue CALL THEM NOW! Even take it a step further and request Kirk Wittner by name you won’t be disappointed !
Read more
5.0
7 Reviews
4.9
115 Reviews
10 Jan, 2025 by Elvis dautovic
Great team that goes above and beyond to get the best car accident results
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Caren shepard
I was involved in an automobile accident in 2024. I received countless solicitations from injury law fims and diligantly explored my options prior to making a choice for legal repesentation. My choice was made for me when, unlike any other law firms I researched, Kevin Roach personally reurned my phone call and agreed to meet with me in personaly prior to signing a contract. I employed the services of the Roach Law Firm and could not be more pleased. Since contracting with them I have had personal, prompt, and profession service. All of my interactions have been met in a kind and timely mannor and have instilled confidence in the ongoing legal proceedings. I would highly recommend this firm to my family and friends should the unfortunate need for thier services arise.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Jason long
The most incompetent attorney that I have ever had to deal with. He and his staff have been unable to close a small estate for five years now. He does not communicate with clients in a timely and accurate manner and usually takes months to file simple paperwork with the courts. He is not capable of dealing with anything more complicated than a speeding ticket.
If you are in need of an attorney that can handle all issues in estate law, you should spare yourself the trouble and look elsewhere. He has, and continues to, waste the time of a bereaved family that wishing nothing more than to close a simple estate and move on with their lives.
Read more
29 Nov, 2024 by Darryl allen
The associates and lawyers at Bruning Law Firm were amazing. They answered all my questions and walked me step by step on the process and what was going on with my case. They kept me in loop with everything that was happening with my case. I will definitely recommend them to my family and friends if they need a law firm to represent them. Thank you for your hard work and keeping me updated with everything. You guys are the best.
Darryl A.
Read more
23 Nov, 2024 by Lavonta clerk
22 Nov, 2024 by Kathy dinwiddie
Nic and his team at Brunning Law Firm Is amazing team I highly recommend them to all my friends and family. They fought hard to help me get what I deserve.
Read more
29 Nov, 2024 by Darryl allen
The associates and lawyers at Bruning Law Firm were amazing. They answered all my questions and walked me step by step on the process and what was going on with my case. They kept me in loop with everything that was happening with my case. I will definitely recommend them to my family and friends if they need a law firm to represent them. Thank you for your hard work and keeping me updated with everything. You guys are the best.
Darryl A.
Read more
23 Nov, 2024 by Lavonta clerk
22 Nov, 2024 by Kathy dinwiddie
Nic and his team at Brunning Law Firm Is amazing team I highly recommend them to all my friends and family. They fought hard to help me get what I deserve.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Lacole purley
Great professionalism, straight to the point, answered all of my questions, great communication, and I recommend Eason Law Firm to anyone and everyone who needs a lawyer after a car accident. The staff are awesome and super friendly too!
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Marjorie silverblatt
Working with Lynn was a very positive experience. She was knowledgeable, supportive, and professional. I do not hesitate to give her firm my highest recommendation.
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Joey sanfilippo
15 Jan, 2025 by Lacole purley
Great professionalism, straight to the point, answered all of my questions, great communication, and I recommend Eason Law Firm to anyone and everyone who needs a lawyer after a car accident. The staff are awesome and super friendly too!
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Marjorie silverblatt
Working with Lynn was a very positive experience. She was knowledgeable, supportive, and professional. I do not hesitate to give her firm my highest recommendation.
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Joey sanfilippo
5.0
2 Reviews
5.0
310 Reviews
13 Jan, 2025 by Kyle lockman
08 Nov, 2024 by D
Professional and efficient. Gets results.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Don hilll
With Kruse Law, I felt like more than simply a case number. Their staff gave me individualized legal assistance, taking into account my particular situation and adjusting their strategy appropriately. Better representation was above my wildest expectations.
Read more
5.0
10 Reviews
4.9
19 Reviews
18 Jan, 2024 by Scott hussey
Personable and highly competent. Covered all the bases.
Read more
01 Nov, 2023 by Rachael larocco
I worked with this law firm for several years and I love them. Kenton was always great at notifying me of changes to my case. Alice at the front sent me monthly updates which helped me tremendously. All experiences in the office were great. I never had to worry about my case at all. Would recommend to anyone!
Read more
01 Nov, 2023 by Tobey bishop
for your family, you cant go wrong with Martha. Completely competent and trustworthy.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer lude
I worked with Christian Misner. He was extremely reliable, courteous, and made me feel like he truly cared about my concerns. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Dashyra dent
I am overjoyed with this law firm , Chris , Kevin And Tom Are GREAT HARDWORKING Men , I was worried bout My Case Due to the fact Mulitple law firms Heard my case and still denied me , After several attempts of being denied I prayed and searched and Thought to give Donner applewhite a chance , it was the reviews that got me , and the trust I seen they earned from there clients and boy did it take a turn for the good from that point on , They where very professional , very patient More importantly invested ! They exceeded my expectations , and I can’t thank them enough ! This law firm is a hidden Gem 💎 THANKYOU SOO MUCH DONNER APPLEWHITE I AM MORE THAN HAPPY WITH MY OUTCOME! I definitely will be doing more buisness with you guys . They will work with you , just Give them something to work with and Watch them work they magic .
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Madison cox
We were extremely satisfied with the service we received from Chris Herman. We retained him to help my husband with an issue that was likely not as major as Mr. Herman normally deals with. However, it was a serious matter to us and that is how he treated it. He took the time to listen to our concerns, gather the facts and clearly laid out our options to proceed. Once we agreed on the best course for us, Mr. Herman took it from there and did the rest. The outcome and the costs were exactly what was expected and explained to us. We could not have hoped for more. We would not hesitate for a moment to recommend him to any of our friends and family that were in need of excellent legal services!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Kim braun
Highly recommend Mr. Cavanagh. He and his associates made what was a difficult case for me very straightforward. Very communicative and helpful.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Jimmy tietjens
15 Nov, 2024 by Antione pearson
I can confidently state without hesitation this Law Firm is A1, and second to none. I had the pleasure of having Kirk Wittner handle a civil suit against a company called LNLV Funding very predatory in nature and will cross hard lines to try and serve you even it means violating the law. Mr.Wittner played 0 games and was an absolute shark when he needed to be causing the company to back peddle and change the script during phone calls to try and settle the matter . I never appeared one time in court and they knew not to push Mr.Wittner. With that said if you’re having an issue CALL THEM NOW! Even take it a step further and request Kirk Wittner by name you won’t be disappointed !
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Marc ottolini
I had an excellent experience working with Jim and his team setting up my estate planning. The services were comprehensive, at a reasonable price.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Dustin h
I am beyond grateful to John and his exceptional team of paralegals for their incredible work on my legal cases. Faced with daunting odds, both statistically and emotionally, John's unwavering dedication resulted in all charges being dropped, an outcome I hardly dared to dream of. John's expertise is matched only by the dedication of his paralegals. From day one, they ensured I was never left in the dark. They kept me informed at every stage, answering all my questions with patience and clarity. Their ability to break down complex legal jargon into understandable terms made a world of difference, reassuring me during some incredibly stressful times.
For anyone navigating the choppy waters of legal issues, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of being patient and trusting the process. The legal system can be slow and daunting, but John and his team proved that persistence and diligence pay off. They offered support not just legally, but psychologically, understanding the immense burden a legal cloud places on an individual and their family.
When the news finally came that all charges were dropped, it was as if an enormous weight had lifted off my shoulders. My family and I could finally breathe easy, and I cannot express the depth of relief and gratitude we feel. Even though I hope to never face another legal issue again, I can say without hesitation that if I did, John and his team would be the first people I would call. Their unparalleled dedication and human touch set them apart from any other legal team I've encountered.
If you find yourself in a difficult legal situation, I wholeheartedly recommend placing your trust in John and his team. They have not only provided an exceptional legal service but have restored a vital sense of hope and justice in our lives.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Skyler marshall
John is awesome and extremely knowledgeable. Got me out of a tough bind, quickly. he provided clear guidance, answered all my questions, and worked diligently to achieve the favorable outcome. I highly recommend JCS Law to seeking legal support.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Stan dix
Jett Injury Lawyers did an excellent job of handling my case. Matt and Lynsey went above and beyond my expectations. They not only assisted me in working with the insurance company, but working with doctors offices as well to assist in my recovery. Highly recommend their services.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Lorna roth
I have used the services of Jett Accident and Injury Lawyers.
This is an awesome firm. Matthew Jett is a very knowledgeable attorney who goes above and beyond for his clients. His secretary, Lindsey, is very efficient
and helpful in explaining legal forms and procedures. I highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Michael anderson
Did an excellent job. Results were above and beyond my expectations. I didn't have to go to court. Ticket was reduced. Highly recommended!!!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Isaiah west
Jason did an incredible job handling my case. Excellent communication and made everything so easy for me. I would recommend him to anyone!
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Neil bradley
Miller & Hine fulfilled every hope and expectation for how legal cases should be dealt with. They were reasonably priced, returned my calls quickly, and they handled my case effectively. I felt well taken care of. I recommend them to anyone going through legal difficulties.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Rohan sharma
Took care of my speeding ticket by knocking it down to a non point violation for $30 when others quoted $50. Unmatched service for the price
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Nick werker
Working with the Dixon Injury Firm has been stellar! Their staff is a pleasure to work with. Highly recommend.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Bill chennault
20 Nov, 2024 by Jamie de geer
Great service, reasonable price and clear explanations of the process. I would highly recommend Douglas Richards, attorney.
Read more
27 Dec, 2024 by Calvin a
This law firm saved me over $4,000 dollars from a debt collection firm.
They handled my case with ease great job
Thanks.
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Mary obrien
22 Nov, 2024 by Lovely daii
24 Dec, 2024 by Benjamin strake
Great attorney who has closed over a dozen business transactions with our firm. She always goes above and beyond for her clients. Courtney is a great attorney I would highly recommend.
Read more
18 Dec, 2024 by Donna parris
Huh we had a great experience during this whole time with the lawyers Matthew Brown represented us to the utmost he answered every call he answered every email he answered every text and he kept us informed on what was going on with our case I couldn't ask for a better lawyer and he came through for us and if anybody needs a lawyer I would suggest Matthew Brown
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Raymond furgason
We had a great experience with Waterkotte office. He was able to work the best case scenario for us. All business and great communication. You won’t be disappointed. Hopefully we won’t be needing him again hahah!🤘🏼
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Isaiah west
Jason did an incredible job handling my case. Excellent communication and made everything so easy for me. I would recommend him to anyone!
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Neil bradley
Miller & Hine fulfilled every hope and expectation for how legal cases should be dealt with. They were reasonably priced, returned my calls quickly, and they handled my case effectively. I felt well taken care of. I recommend them to anyone going through legal difficulties.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Rohan sharma
Took care of my speeding ticket by knocking it down to a non point violation for $30 when others quoted $50. Unmatched service for the price
Read more
08 Jan, 2025 by Carla stewart
Highly recommend. It was nice to have someone looking out for me through such an overwhelming process.
Read more
07 Jan, 2025 by Karla granberry
The service that I received was phenomenal. The entire experience was amazing. The staff were professional, knowledgeable and very friendly. I loved my experience with them and would happily recommend them to anyone and everyone. Thank you for your service and diligence in handling my case.
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Colleen wilson
19 Dec, 2024 by Keith hungate
03 Dec, 2024 by Jwahn palmer
03 Dec, 2024 by Brandon butler
Made the process very easy and efficient! Highly recommend!
Read more
21 Jun, 2022 by Mark w
17 Jan, 2020 by Jeff reeves
Betty was very nice and effective. She has long term determination and ethics that comes from her heart.
Read more
14 Sep, 2018 by Luanne brickey
I work here. It's a great place to work and I hope they make the official list again.
Read more
15 Dec, 2024 by Amanda g
They were able to make the process fast and always answered my questions in a timely manner.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by John bliven
I will start this off the way I will finish it.. Bardol Law Firm is a great practice, with Great people, Compassionate people, Great processes and extremely fair with billings.
So Going through one of the most difficult times in my life seeing something that I had so much hope and expectation for success end in a train wreck was to say the least difficult and embarrassing. Given all of that as the back drop, I then learned that this individual (my Ex) was trying to take advantage of me and destroy me almost from day one of the marriage with was only 16 or 18 months in length.
This is where Bardol Law Firm and specifically Ann and Alicia (IE the "A team") came into the process. I would say that they saved my sanity through this process. Ann and Alicia are people you can depend on, people you can Trust and most important people who will get you the best results.
Ann was beyond cool under pressure and handled every twist and turn that the apposing council was throwing at us and in her words this was by far the worst Gold Digger attempt she or her firm had ever seen. Lets just say what the $$ amount that was started at vs the end result was MUCH different to the point where the Final check needed to be made out to both the client (Noe My EX) and the apposing law firm. Ann Just kept pushing it back with sound logic, sound approach and a calm approach and asking the apposing council to justify the math and show the math of how and what made up the demands for the $$. slowly but surly things started to break through and the $$ just started coming down and down and down.
I was so impressed with Alicia and her approach and keeping everything on schedule throughout this mess. She was the scheduling mastermind to keep all the balls in motion. She was also the cheerleader with reassurance that everything was going to be ok, and Ann had a Plan and a Strategy to get this done and over with.
At the end of this process, Bardol Law Firm was extremely fair. How many times do you have a credit and a check waiting for you after a process like this? I received a $2K plus check as a refund at the end. (How many times do you hear of this happening.) A great Firm, Great People, very professional, results driven and fair beyond words.
Read more
15 Jun, 2024 by J m
Bardol Law Firm is the only place I'd go for Family court, my case took about 1 year. Ann was great and so was Allicia. Ann pretty much detailed the whole court timeline for me when we stopped by on the 1st day and that was very very helpful. I'd use this Law Firm again if I needed to. In the end I got Full Custody + Child Support and I'm the Dad which seems rare. Just thought I'd share my review. Thanks again Ann and Allicia!
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Chrissy mares
20 Sep, 2024 by B m
I’m very happy to have found Mr. Todd Mandel to handle my accident case. When I was hit by a reckless driver, I thought it would take years for my case to be settled, if at all, after I had so much trouble with my insurance. His team got it handled and I received more than I could’ve expected. I will be recommending him in the future, thank you Mandel Law.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Kassidy little
In November of 2023 another driver ran a light and slammed into my car and totaled it. Almost a year later and I have nothing to show for it. I never got a rental or anything. The ball was dropped time and time again over the past year and this allowed the insurance company to screw me over at every turn. I lost my job twice, my transportation, my 4 year old can’t attend speech therapy anymore, everything is terrible. It got so bad at one point I actually begun the process to fire Mr. Mandel. I didn’t because I was told they had already sent over a request and it was over $100,000. I figured if they could partially recover that, that would be more than enough to make all of this worth it but it turns out even that was just a cover dream. The office called me today and said the most I can and ever could’ve gotten is $25,000. Which I also have to split with him and insurance, so I jumped through hoops and had my entire life ruined for less money than I would’ve gotten on my taxes anyway and I have honestly never felt so defeated and heartbroken. My car was totaled and they didn’t even get it paid off, I still owe $2000 on it too! I’m not even getting a new car when all of this is over and that’s honestly the only thing I really needed and wanted out of all this.
Read more
08 Jan, 2025 by Kristi lawson
Mr. Coulter and staff were great to work with. Very attentive to all the details and quick to respond to any questions we had along the way. They also communicated and expanded each step in the process so we had a better understanding of what would be happening and they helped us win our case. You will not be disappointed in using this firm for lawyer services.
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Thomas taylor
07 Nov, 2024 by Erica l
This legal professional has shown exceptional competence and dedication in their field. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking legal representation that is committed to unwavering advocacy and support throughout the entirety of their case.
Read more
03 Nov, 2024 by Tim jenkins
Mike was a answer to prayer.
I had a motorcycle accident and a nurse came by to check on me and referred me to Mike Shelton.
From that day on all my worries and concerned we're taken away.
Mike handle everything. I had no idea what to do and Mike explained everything. I totally trust him. He is a God sent.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Carol dement
Did a bad job for me
Read more
21 Feb, 2024 by Kurt lubiewski
Always professional and great
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Balak aye
Gabe was amazing. He made sure there was no doubt through the process and answered any questions that came to mind and made everything easy.
Read more
13 Nov, 2024 by Nawroz darwish
She is respectful, also dedicated to her job,....
Read more
21 Oct, 2024 by Austin evans
Hardworking, trustworthy, and knowledgeable. Truly cares about the people he represents
Read more
16 Jan, 2024 by John b
10 Aug, 2023 by Sarah duncan
We hired Tony for someone who was in desperate need for some great defense..that is what Tony delivered.
Aside from that, he’s just really a great down to earth guy! He made me comfortable from our first phone call. He’s a straight shooter and he will tell you how it is! I appreciated his transparency and the fact that he’s just really easy to work with. Down to earth and relatable! Would hire again!
Read more
22 Dec, 2022 by Jack mehuff plz bitc (too quick sorry)
he's very good informative and keeps you up-to-date on your case and mr. mellencamp is FrankBoyer and I love you
Read more
27 Dec, 2024 by Calvin a
This law firm saved me over $4,000 dollars from a debt collection firm.
They handled my case with ease great job
Thanks.
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Mary obrien
11 Dec, 2024 by Zach dygard
We had someone who ran over my wife and almost got away with it. Luckily Carrie took care of us all the way to the end regarding getting justice served against this man
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Bill chennault
20 Nov, 2024 by Jamie de geer
Great service, reasonable price and clear explanations of the process. I would highly recommend Douglas Richards, attorney.
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Genelle hines
Easy to work with good results.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Bob h
We attempted to use his services. We spoke with him during his consultation; we found him curt in the initial meeting, but we cast it aside. We didn't hear a thing back for three weeks. He promised an email - nothing. Called the office three times; finally, on the third attempt, I got a call back... from an administrative person. (FYI, I'm almost certain he uses an outsourced service.) The woman said Michael would not take our case. "Okay... fine. Did he say a reason?" "No." I understand it's a small practice, but their communication skills are poor. I went to his office to pick up our documents I dropped off. I found him to be prickly again. Ultimately, it's probably for the best he didn't take the case. Not a fan of his personality, and his office's lack of professionalism reflects poorly on his practice.
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Karen bodeux
Mr. Doyle made this scary process so easy for me. Every time I had a question, his staff was always available and immediately provided the information I needed. I highly recommend him for all your legal issues.
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Patricia thompson
This guy made me feel lower than low. His attitude sucks and his rudeness, mistakes, and incompetence, is not worth how he makes you feel. He must have some ego. I'd find someone who's friendly and enjoys his work. As I told a friend the other day, some people just shouldn't work with the public.
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Joseph douglas
Pat was great, super professional and very responsive. Made everything quick and easy.
I will be telling my friends when they need help in the future.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Randall price
09 Oct, 2024 by Kundz
Got my case handled and dismissed quickly with no extra things needed from me. Will be using him only from now on.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
