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29 Oct, 2023 by Erin ipsen-borgersen
21 Oct, 2023 by Hope tims
Steven was very helpful. He didn’t give up on my case and saw it through to the end!
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09 Aug, 2023 by Dawn b
I was pregnant 🤰🏾 and I was in a car collision where I was rear ended. I was pretty banged up because not only was I pregnant but it was also winter as well. Adam and his Team are so professional and experienced. I truly appreciate the effort they put forth during the full process of my case. They made sure I got everything I needed to heal and get better faster. They were knowledgeable about the care and where I would need to go in order to get better faster. They work with the best of the best of care for their clients. I would highly recommend Adam to anyone who has been in a car accident. I was fairly, honestly and handsomely compensated for my pain and suffering.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Erin ipsen-borgersen
21 Oct, 2023 by Hope tims
Steven was very helpful. He didn’t give up on my case and saw it through to the end!
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09 Aug, 2023 by Dawn b
I was pregnant 🤰🏾 and I was in a car collision where I was rear ended. I was pretty banged up because not only was I pregnant but it was also winter as well. Adam and his Team are so professional and experienced. I truly appreciate the effort they put forth during the full process of my case. They made sure I got everything I needed to heal and get better faster. They were knowledgeable about the care and where I would need to go in order to get better faster. They work with the best of the best of care for their clients. I would highly recommend Adam to anyone who has been in a car accident. I was fairly, honestly and handsomely compensated for my pain and suffering.
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25 May, 2018 by Anonymous
In 2011 after sitting on probation for 6 years out of no where I was going back to court for a crime I had thought I already did my time for. But since there are some really nasty county prosecutors that enjoy being the anti christ I found out otherwise anyways the state said since I hadn't paid the entire restitution amount owed to my victim for stealing her car that after being sentenced to jail time already served and 5 years of probation which was extended another year that I was going to prison mind you this was my only offense with no probation violations besides for not paying all the 10000 dollars which was a made up number by who knows. Brian found out that I had paid the victim back in full and the county was throwing me in prison because I owed a lil bit of money to gieco insurance. Well that's not a criminal act you cant be thrown into jail cause you didnt pay last months water bill. I wonder what they were using that extra money for I doubt Polk county have it to the victim who didnt want to see this even happen anyways I got to go home and the charge was dismissed and I was instantly off probation. I feel like Polk county violated my rights and the rights of many. Not only did brian work with me on the case he also made it affordable and never hounded me for the money I mean he drove to Polk county from saint paul twice for me and he didnt hate it or charge me for his time doing so. I cant be more thankful for having him in my corner when I was being victimized by our system. Like I said Marsden is the greatest lawyer hands down. Theres not a better one out here. On a side not dont hire jeff dean hes a thief and you will simply over pay a boat load and get less services. Love you brian always greatful.
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17 Feb, 2017 by Heidi
Mr. Marsden defended me with such consideration and care in regard to what I was going through. He let me know I was in control, and he was there to support me no matter what decisions I made regarding my case. His main concern was making sure I was happy, and adequately represented through every step. I cant express enough the peace of mind this gave me during a stressful, and emotional time. Very Appreciative!
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24 Oct, 2016 by Flaka
This review refers to 3 cases that Brian Marsden took care of for me back in 2003. I was arrested 3 times within a month for serious offenses. I hired Brian for the fed case only {1 of the 3}.
I couldn't of hired a better attorney. He handled all 3 cases, running them all concurrent into my fed charge. Don't ask me how he did it but in court he is a firdt contender. He works with people and their families. He never once left me in the dark. I love you Brian
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13 Jun, 2023 by Tommy
Smart, down to earth and deeply committed attorney- Its honor to work with her-
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22 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Michelle has worked with me on two cases and was able to, ultimately, get both cases dismissed. In the first case she went above and beyond to get to know me and the particulars of my situation and used those details to obtain a successful outcome for me. In the other case she was able to suppress ion scan evidence (a swab of the doorknob of my apartment) on which the entire case against me was built. Michelle has played a key role in outcomes that encouraged me to do the right thing (long-term drug rehab) but did not destroy my ability to recover. I very highly recommend!
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23 Sep, 2019 by Rodrigo carrera brenis
Very helpful, would recommend.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Erin ipsen-borgersen
21 Oct, 2023 by Hope tims
Steven was very helpful. He didn’t give up on my case and saw it through to the end!
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09 Aug, 2023 by Dawn b
I was pregnant 🤰🏾 and I was in a car collision where I was rear ended. I was pretty banged up because not only was I pregnant but it was also winter as well. Adam and his Team are so professional and experienced. I truly appreciate the effort they put forth during the full process of my case. They made sure I got everything I needed to heal and get better faster. They were knowledgeable about the care and where I would need to go in order to get better faster. They work with the best of the best of care for their clients. I would highly recommend Adam to anyone who has been in a car accident. I was fairly, honestly and handsomely compensated for my pain and suffering.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Stacia kabbash
I completed my forms for a Saboxone claim and the were returned to me with no correspondence included. Am I not included ? Am I included? Do they need more information?
It sure would have been nice to know something, I am going to resubmit my claim that shows much much more work done, Just tell me something.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Sterling concrete & masonry, llc
Dealing with custody matters are tough enough to go through, time is of the essence and you need your hired team to represent swiftly and aggressively so that life can move forward and you can rest with your family again. You add trusting and spending your hard earned money only to end up picking the wrong lawyer to represent this sensitive matter is a total setback for the children first as well as the parents. Katelyn was very unprofessional, lazy and very inexperienced in the compassion department to say the least. I simply asked her to get the ball rolling & keep us updated after we paid the retainer fees and submitted her requested paperwork because we hadn't heard back. She quickly responded with a few lame excuses followed by "We can just refund your deposit ". My gut feeling was not to work with her from the start it felt like we were just a number on the pile and that she was very green and not aggressive driven to help get the job done, turns out by her response above, I was correct. I'm not really a review type and don't waste time on it but thought this would help others when looking through the billions of lawyers in thier time of desperate need. - The Glass family
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10 May, 2024 by David horning
Erica is a wonderful person always returns my calls about my concerns very professional and I think a very valuable asset to your firm thank you for being real Erica I appreciate you 💖
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02 Sep, 2024 by Stacia kabbash
I completed my forms for a Saboxone claim and the were returned to me with no correspondence included. Am I not included ? Am I included? Do they need more information?
It sure would have been nice to know something, I am going to resubmit my claim that shows much much more work done, Just tell me something.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Sterling concrete & masonry, llc
Dealing with custody matters are tough enough to go through, time is of the essence and you need your hired team to represent swiftly and aggressively so that life can move forward and you can rest with your family again. You add trusting and spending your hard earned money only to end up picking the wrong lawyer to represent this sensitive matter is a total setback for the children first as well as the parents. Katelyn was very unprofessional, lazy and very inexperienced in the compassion department to say the least. I simply asked her to get the ball rolling & keep us updated after we paid the retainer fees and submitted her requested paperwork because we hadn't heard back. She quickly responded with a few lame excuses followed by "We can just refund your deposit ". My gut feeling was not to work with her from the start it felt like we were just a number on the pile and that she was very green and not aggressive driven to help get the job done, turns out by her response above, I was correct. I'm not really a review type and don't waste time on it but thought this would help others when looking through the billions of lawyers in thier time of desperate need. - The Glass family
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10 May, 2024 by David horning
Erica is a wonderful person always returns my calls about my concerns very professional and I think a very valuable asset to your firm thank you for being real Erica I appreciate you 💖
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02 Sep, 2024 by Stacia kabbash
I completed my forms for a Saboxone claim and the were returned to me with no correspondence included. Am I not included ? Am I included? Do they need more information?
It sure would have been nice to know something, I am going to resubmit my claim that shows much much more work done, Just tell me something.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Sterling concrete & masonry, llc
Dealing with custody matters are tough enough to go through, time is of the essence and you need your hired team to represent swiftly and aggressively so that life can move forward and you can rest with your family again. You add trusting and spending your hard earned money only to end up picking the wrong lawyer to represent this sensitive matter is a total setback for the children first as well as the parents. Katelyn was very unprofessional, lazy and very inexperienced in the compassion department to say the least. I simply asked her to get the ball rolling & keep us updated after we paid the retainer fees and submitted her requested paperwork because we hadn't heard back. She quickly responded with a few lame excuses followed by "We can just refund your deposit ". My gut feeling was not to work with her from the start it felt like we were just a number on the pile and that she was very green and not aggressive driven to help get the job done, turns out by her response above, I was correct. I'm not really a review type and don't waste time on it but thought this would help others when looking through the billions of lawyers in thier time of desperate need. - The Glass family
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10 May, 2024 by David horning
Erica is a wonderful person always returns my calls about my concerns very professional and I think a very valuable asset to your firm thank you for being real Erica I appreciate you 💖
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02 Sep, 2024 by Stacia kabbash
I completed my forms for a Saboxone claim and the were returned to me with no correspondence included. Am I not included ? Am I included? Do they need more information?
It sure would have been nice to know something, I am going to resubmit my claim that shows much much more work done, Just tell me something.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Sterling concrete & masonry, llc
Dealing with custody matters are tough enough to go through, time is of the essence and you need your hired team to represent swiftly and aggressively so that life can move forward and you can rest with your family again. You add trusting and spending your hard earned money only to end up picking the wrong lawyer to represent this sensitive matter is a total setback for the children first as well as the parents. Katelyn was very unprofessional, lazy and very inexperienced in the compassion department to say the least. I simply asked her to get the ball rolling & keep us updated after we paid the retainer fees and submitted her requested paperwork because we hadn't heard back. She quickly responded with a few lame excuses followed by "We can just refund your deposit ". My gut feeling was not to work with her from the start it felt like we were just a number on the pile and that she was very green and not aggressive driven to help get the job done, turns out by her response above, I was correct. I'm not really a review type and don't waste time on it but thought this would help others when looking through the billions of lawyers in thier time of desperate need. - The Glass family
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10 May, 2024 by David horning
Erica is a wonderful person always returns my calls about my concerns very professional and I think a very valuable asset to your firm thank you for being real Erica I appreciate you 💖
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12 Oct, 2024 by Rickey
Ryan will fight for you he will do everything to get you out of bs I have him on speed dial if you need a good lawyer he's the
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26 Sep, 2024 by Susie
Helped me through a domestic charge I was wrongfully accused of. Mr. Kaess was always easily reached and answered all my questions, of which I had quite a few as this was my first time accused of anything. He also worked out a payment plan where if he hadn't, I wouldn't have been able to afford any help yet made too much for a public defender. I highly recommend anyone to utilize his outstanding services.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Jon
I can't say enough about Ryan! He taught me many years ago that court proceedings take time and steps, and as clients we want results right now.
After he explained the process to me it lifted a lot of the anxiety and stress that comes along with the process.
He's always been up front about our position every time he has represented me, from DWIs, criminal matters as well as family matters.
I was extremely happy with the success of every case he has taken care of for me.
His results are a direct reflection of the case study he does for every client, since the laws are constantly changing so is his due diligence on every single case.
He puts in the time and effort to represent each of his clients to the very best of his ability, on every case!
If your looking for representation that's honest , and done with integrity Ryan is lawyer your looking for.
He makes the process very easy.
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29 Oct, 2020 by David robbins
This is a voter-suppression law firm.
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21 Sep, 2019 by Daniel morales morales
If you break the law they will help you out check it out
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04 Jul, 2019 by Christopher schmitt
29 Oct, 2020 by David robbins
This is a voter-suppression law firm.
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21 Sep, 2019 by Daniel morales morales
If you break the law they will help you out check it out
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04 Jul, 2019 by Christopher schmitt
29 Oct, 2020 by David robbins
This is a voter-suppression law firm.
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21 Sep, 2019 by Daniel morales morales
If you break the law they will help you out check it out
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04 Jul, 2019 by Christopher schmitt
09 Jun, 2024 by Schumi
Mr. Adkins has won me full custody of my son and parental rights terminated in the state of MN and has helped me navigate numerous other legal challenges throughout my relationship with him. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of any help in any area did help. He knows the law, and what he’s doing I would fully trust him in with anything I bring to him. Give Dan and team a call you won’t be disappointed!
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06 Mar, 2024 by Marisa
Mr. Adkins delivered. His tenacity in negotiations and courtroom presence were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome. I am immensely grateful for his tireless efforts.
Dan is not just a lawyer; he is an advocate, a confidant, and a beacon of legal excellence. If you seek representation that combines intellect, integrity, and compassion, look no further.
Thank you, for your exceptional service. You have my highest recommendation.
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30 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
My experience with Daniel S. Adkins and NORTH STAR CRIMINAL DEFENSE was nothing short of a nightmare. It's really disheartening when someone you trust, especially in a legal matter, turns out to be unreliable and neglectful.
Discovering that Adkins is more interested in collecting fees than in diligently working on my case is beyond frustrating. Legal battles are emotionally draining, and when your attorney fails to provide the support and preparation needed, it's not just a letdown; it can have serious consequences for your life.
The fact that he ignores my calls adds another layer of disappointment. Communication is key in any relationship, and especially so when you're dealing with legal matters. Feeling abandoned during such a crucial time amplifies the stress and uncertainty that often accompanies legal proceedings.
The idea of an attorney who doesn't bother to investigate my case is not just a professional letdown; it's a betrayal of trust. I'm essentially left in the dark, unsure of what's happening with my own legal situation. That lack of transparency is not only unprofessional but deeply unfair to someone relying on their expertise.
Legal representation should be about more than just a transaction. It should embody a commitment to justice and a genuine desire to help clients navigate through challenging times. The opportunistic approach I experienced is not just a breach of professional ethics; it's a disservice to individuals seeking guidance and support.
My experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance of reviews and shared experiences. Hopefully, by expressing my disappointment, I'm not only finding a cathartic outlet but also helping others steer clear of a similar ordeal.
Considering exploring alternative legal representation—there are attorneys out there who genuinely care about their clients and are willing to put in the work to ensure a fair and just legal process. I deserve an advocate who is not just there for the paycheck but is committed to fighting for my rights and well-being.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Cedrick hart
SMH
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09 Oct, 2023 by D ryan
09 Apr, 2023 by Shelly larose
My first time ever having to pay a ticket, went to 3 different places until I got it right, haha, the lady was very kind and friendly.
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28 Apr, 2023 by Thein san
In my divorce case, he made mistake without translator , late 10 mins.
Lack of knowledge .
Very bad lawyer, don’t waste time and money here.
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31 Dec, 2022 by Juicy smooyay
Great, reasonable and affordable lawyer. Help me out big time and will recommend to anyone. I appreciate what u did and will always be grateful, thanks!
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17 Oct, 2022 by Sheelue yang
28 Apr, 2023 by Thein san
In my divorce case, he made mistake without translator , late 10 mins.
Lack of knowledge .
Very bad lawyer, don’t waste time and money here.
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31 Dec, 2022 by Juicy smooyay
Great, reasonable and affordable lawyer. Help me out big time and will recommend to anyone. I appreciate what u did and will always be grateful, thanks!
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17 Oct, 2022 by Sheelue yang
19 Jul, 2024 by Sassy one
Professional, empathetic, straight shooter. Man of integrity who will do his very best for you.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Adam jones
11 Feb, 2024 by Anne rybarczyk gray
You will never find a lawyer that’s more prepared. Very professional and the BEST criminal defense lawyer in Minnesota.
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22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu
20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue
Was expecting more with the money he asked for.
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06 Aug, 2019 by John doe
He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Charlie
I hired Ira when I was facing multiple felonies and 30 years. He was able to guide me take me through the frustrating process of bail hearing, pretrials, and eventually trial. Ira informed me as to how and why charges were being modified, the things that I can do to make sure that he's aware of all the facts of the case and any updates, and would touch bases on a regular basis. It was a scary time as my whole life had come to a standstill; however, he made sure to balance his time by addressing my case when appropriate. In the end, Ira presented all of the facts during trial, gave a powerful closing, and I was found not guilty on all six felonies; payment for his services were definitely worth my freedom.
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15 Feb, 2018 by Travis
My family used the services of Ira Whitlock a little over a year ago for a jury trial. I watched with my own eyes how he deftly navigated around the traps of the prosecution and won the jury over with concise facts, humor and deductive reasoning . He arrived prepared and early every day of the trail.
We were always informed and ecstatic with the verdict . We would recommend him in a heartbeat.
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14 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Ira is one of the best lawyers in the country. I know why he was selected as a Top 100 lawyer. He and his firm took the time to review my case and prepared a great defense. Ira was excellent during the trial and had the jurors mesmerized. He gave a great closing argument and I was acquitted of all six counts of murder. You can trust Ira with your life!
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11 Oct, 2023 by Skennys salgado
04 Aug, 2023 by Laurie estreita hernandez
21 Sep, 2018 by Dora polk
They are all about arresting the wrong people they don’t care if justice is served
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31 Mar, 2024 by Nicole redmond
05 Mar, 2024 by Shauntell mayo
They sent me a bill for 200K from a man named Kevin. They did not even do their research. That man is certified Crazy my son has PTSD due to his actions and wants to send me a bill. Should be quite the opposite.
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29 Nov, 2023 by Dennis archambault
Discussed matter with Bill Cotrell. I provided documents for his review, he informed me he turned the matter over to Andrew Green in his office. After chasing after them for weeks for a fee schedule, out of the blue, Bill just dropped the case with no referral.
If Halpren and Cotrell handle their cases like the handle their client intake, I would be cautious when engaging this firm.
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03 Dec, 2023 by Steven hicks
28 Nov, 2023 by Daniel camacho
Your parents are total failures for raising trash like you.
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04 Oct, 2021 by Jason bethune
No response?????
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15 Mar, 2023 by Big me
This lawyer does not care about your feelings or anything about your case. Don’t care about the issue you tell her. I would not waste my time with her . Pass this person up.
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13 Oct, 2021 by Jack
Shuly Her is a smart and talented lawyer and a really asset to the profession.
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22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu
20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue
Was expecting more with the money he asked for.
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06 Aug, 2019 by John doe
He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.
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22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu
20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue
Was expecting more with the money he asked for.
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06 Aug, 2019 by John doe
He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I felt unrepresented
Minimal preparation and discovery
No request for production of documents which would have made a huge difference in the case
Years later I still am effected
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01 Nov, 2011 by Lara
I consulted with Mr. Geffen regarding professional licensing following a criminal matter. He was very knowledgeable and helpful when it came to answering my questions and got back to me quickly. I am very glad that I contacted him!
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15 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional, in my case, no preparation, felt like I was on my own, no worse because I would have prepared and said what needed to be said and presented important evidence.
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07 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Don't waste your money to this attorney. I paid him $3,500 cash for my case. I have to do my own homework and find out things by myself. Everytime I asked him questions about my case, he tried to avoid and say something else like he was rushing to do other things. When I actually asked him what to say and not to say during court, he told me that he can not gave me any suggestion or idea. He cannot gave me the answer and was told that I will have to find my own answer. At the end, I lost my case due to not having enough evidence to prove my innocent. I don't recommend this laywer.
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04 Mar, 2014 by Hmong yang
I paid him to defend me. Never once contact ed me, wanted to sit down and planned a defense. Only showed up in court and argue d so stupid ly. He probably thought my $500 was nothing. He even blamed me for not letting him know about how i was going to defend myself. I was like what? That's your job not mine. Don't waste your money ... you yourself might even do better by your self. Lucas couldn't pronounced certain words properly and that made it even harder for us because biased Rosso wouldn't understand what he was asking the defense. He was basically shut out in the court room because he was not prepared to argue my case. He was looking pretty stupid. Pathetic that a lawyer would be so I'll prepared like that. I believe he never had the intention to defend me .. he thought it was so simple that he was going to swing it in court to lose or to win. I do not recommend this lawyer. He was not knowledge ful or showed interest in me. I think he had no intention of defending me which is a violation of his license.
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18 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Lucas was very professional and knowledgeable in the areas of law that he practiced. He kept me informed at all time and was concerned about my best interests in the case. Lucas gave me the personal attention that I needed in the case.
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14 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Adam Yang became a Judge in Ramsey County Court, and I had the unfortunate circumstance to have him preside over my divorce trial in family court. His order was terrible and the balance sheet riddled with errors and double accounting that resulted in me overpaying my ex by more than $100k! I’m still dealing with his mistakes through the legal system more than two years and one appeals court later. I believe he is incompetent and neglectful of the true evidence presented to him, and he certainly can’t do basic math. It has cost me tens of $1000s to correct his mistakes!
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01 Mar, 2018 by Malik
Hi my name is Malik flowers you represented me in my 5th degree Csc case in May of 2017 I was charged under statue 609.3451 and I understand that was a gross misdemeanor but what I am confused on is why I had to register for 10 years when my Co-defendant took the same plea and got probation and I also don't understand how I was required to register when the statue I was convicted under says nothing about registration.
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26 May, 2013 by Honkeyspin
"Your honor, I think we can resolve this matter in a jury trial, but i lost my court schedule it was in my car and i went to the casino this weekend and i met this chick and i lost my car long story short, can we get back to you on this for a date for the jury trial?" and that b*tch of a judge SMILED at me ....I swore Icould hear her thinking "yer f'd buddy, your attorney cant even find his car how you think hes gonna handle this case?" 30 minutes after court was adjourned i sh*t myself and took the deal. 2 years on paper.... and i coulda won that case but i had an incompetent attorney.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
