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22 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Phillip was amazing throughout the entire process of my DUI. From the offset, he was highly professional whilst supportive, and always transparent with regards to cost, timelines, and the likelihood of various outcomes. He went above and beyond in my case to explore all possible legal avenues before, during, and after my trial. Moreover, he has enormous integrity as a lawyer and as a friend, and I feel very fortunate to have found him to cover my case. Highly recommend.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Tomasz lakota
I came across the Crawford Law firm through a friend who hired them to work on a DUI case and said they were the best. I knew right after my free consultation with Julie that I would be well taken care of. Julie and her team did such a great job at a fair price. The case was dropped completely, I'm so happy to move on finally. I would recommend Julie and the staff they worked tirelessly to win on my behalf. They are one of the best, if not the best criminal defense attorneys in Salinas. Thank you for all the hard work!..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Jeffrey mcphee
There are few things scarier than DUI allegations. Your life can be turned inside out in the blink of an eye when the red and blue's turn on behind you. Phillip Crawford and his team worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for my case. I can't express enough how important an honest, hardworking attorney is when facing prosecution. Worth every penny and more.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Robert
Aaron handled my case perfectly. Very professional and took all the pressure off my shoulders. Highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Wave street studios
Thank you Phillip for coming to my rescue and getting the case against me dismissed. I've never been accused of a crime and didn't know what to do to fight the charge. Your early research of the facts and expert navigation through the process were the keys to our success. Thanks again, Rhett
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael k. scheid
Crawford Law firm is one of the top juvenile criminal attorneys in Salinas.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Wave street studios
Thank you Phillip for coming to my rescue and getting the case against me dismissed. I've never been accused of a crime and didn't know what to do to fight the charge. Your early research of the facts and expert navigation through the process were the keys to our success. Thanks again, Rhett
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Michael k. scheid
Crawford Law firm is one of the top juvenile criminal attorneys in Salinas.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rob garcia
I ran into an unusual case that I needed someone in the field to fight for me. And that's exactly what she did. I'm grateful for her because she believed in me and went beyond her means to help me. It was a victory case and my innocence is restored again. And that's priceless. RG
Read more
26 Oct, 2024 by Minister rose jesus
Thank you for responding to my call. You are AMAZING 🤩
I appreciate the referral at no cost!!!
My name is Rose D
Go check out his Firm
He’s about THE PEOPLES NEEEDS
That is Exactly what we Need.in this CORUPT world. WILLIAM PERNKIK
And WIFE OLGA! Go check them out.
I promise you
You won’t be disappointed at all
He wins All his Cases
😊
May GOD Continue to always bless you in abundance in everything in your life always
🙏
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Navraj chakal
Where do i start. It was my first experience as dui charges that i had to face. I luckily came across Charles H. Shivers and i quickly went through so many reviews and i decided to Call Charles, answered and assured me that he would work in my best interest. I first contacted Charles in 2023 July. From my call till today Charles stood out be the straight shooter. He told what he can and what he cannot. But as time went passed. I just want to sum it up that Charles not only got all my charges dismissed but was available on every call i made and every email we exchange. Today i confidently say he was like family over this past year and stood by me at every turn. If you need help with your Dui. Please with hesitation reach out to him. He stand by you like family.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Paul taylor
When you feel a Public Defender is not the answer to your problems. I asked myself, "who do I turn to"? Well, while thumbing through an endless amount of options I stumbled on Law Office of William V. Pernik. I was quickly invited in for a consultation. Almost immediately I felt the passion for my concerns regarding my case. The District Attorney (D.A) was trying to brand me with a criminal charge that I knew did not fit. The D.A. would not budge or listen to people or facts of my case. I was just a case # to them, they treated me as if I was not human. The Law Office of William V. Pernik very much understood my feelings, emotions, anxieties, and my fears. I chose Pernik. Mr. Pernik assigned a lawyer by the name of Mr. Ercolano to my case. At first glance, I was taken off guard. Before me, I saw a sharp dressed baby faced attorney. I was a bit puzzled. However, I was taught never judge by its cover. So together we rolled up our sleeves and went to work. The D.A. would stay firm on the decision to charge me, it did not matter the evidence in my favor. It was heartbreaking. My family and I could not even begin to start the healing process. Mr. Ercolano stated to me "We will not fold or agree to a plea agreement". Through it trials and tribulations. Through the sometimes, lengthy court process. Yes, we got the outcome that we were looking for! So much weight lifted off my shoulders. My family and I can officially put efforts into healing.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Minister rose jesus
Thank you for responding to my call. You are AMAZING 🤩
I appreciate the referral at no cost!!!
My name is Rose D
Go check out his Firm
He’s about THE PEOPLES NEEEDS
That is Exactly what we Need.in this CORUPT world. WILLIAM PERNKIK
And WIFE OLGA! Go check them out.
I promise you
You won’t be disappointed at all
He wins All his Cases
😊
May GOD Continue to always bless you in abundance in everything in your life always
🙏
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Navraj chakal
Where do i start. It was my first experience as dui charges that i had to face. I luckily came across Charles H. Shivers and i quickly went through so many reviews and i decided to Call Charles, answered and assured me that he would work in my best interest. I first contacted Charles in 2023 July. From my call till today Charles stood out be the straight shooter. He told what he can and what he cannot. But as time went passed. I just want to sum it up that Charles not only got all my charges dismissed but was available on every call i made and every email we exchange. Today i confidently say he was like family over this past year and stood by me at every turn. If you need help with your Dui. Please with hesitation reach out to him. He stand by you like family.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Paul taylor
When you feel a Public Defender is not the answer to your problems. I asked myself, "who do I turn to"? Well, while thumbing through an endless amount of options I stumbled on Law Office of William V. Pernik. I was quickly invited in for a consultation. Almost immediately I felt the passion for my concerns regarding my case. The District Attorney (D.A) was trying to brand me with a criminal charge that I knew did not fit. The D.A. would not budge or listen to people or facts of my case. I was just a case # to them, they treated me as if I was not human. The Law Office of William V. Pernik very much understood my feelings, emotions, anxieties, and my fears. I chose Pernik. Mr. Pernik assigned a lawyer by the name of Mr. Ercolano to my case. At first glance, I was taken off guard. Before me, I saw a sharp dressed baby faced attorney. I was a bit puzzled. However, I was taught never judge by its cover. So together we rolled up our sleeves and went to work. The D.A. would stay firm on the decision to charge me, it did not matter the evidence in my favor. It was heartbreaking. My family and I could not even begin to start the healing process. Mr. Ercolano stated to me "We will not fold or agree to a plea agreement". Through it trials and tribulations. Through the sometimes, lengthy court process. Yes, we got the outcome that we were looking for! So much weight lifted off my shoulders. My family and I can officially put efforts into healing.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Lioned cabrera
19 Aug, 2024 by Vitalii romanok
17 Aug, 2024 by Act kids
Hola mi nonbre es Juan Hernandez Duran..enlo personal la señora abogada Maribel penaloza trabajo en my caso muy rápido y eficas es una persona muy preparada en su trabajo .. muchas gracias Abogada 🙏🙏🙏
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28 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Very helpful. Polite. And went above and beyond to help me through a stressful situation
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28 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Jamey and Dylan(and staff) was AMAZING!
Seriously. I called around to others in the area- having never been arrested, in jail or anything like this before, I didn't know what to expect. The first person I called was rude, he had been practicing DUI cases in Monterey for many years, and I am sure he was knowledgeable, but I didn't trust him the ways I trusted Jamey; right from the start, he was kind and very professional. He seems like a good guy too, a straight-talker who is down to earth, and smart.
Anyhow, that was my initial impression and my gut was right! This was one, if not, the worst thing to ever happen to me. I needed someone to walk me through the journey and I got more than I expected.
So my story – I was knocked out. I was on vacation in Canery Row and parked my car on the street set a 2 hour timer on my phone and went to my favorite restaurant in the area. Time passed, plans changed, and the timer went off, I booked a hotel nearby. As I went to move the rental car one tenth of the mile away, in to valet, something hit the back of my car. I come to learn someone on a skateboard lost control of their skateboard and it hit the back of the rental car. I didn't know what had happened, for all I knew, another car could have hit the back of my car. So I got out to see what happened and a large man came charging at me, I turned around to get back in the car, and that's when I was knocked out. This all happened within seconds of getting out to see if anyone was hurt based off the bang I heard, in the middle of bumper to bumper traffic, on Canery Row.
Minutes later, police and ambulance came, witnesses described that the man had run away. The police officer was a complete jerk, newer on the force(Jamey tells me) – no field sobriety test was given. They arrived when I was on the sidewalk, bleeding and in shock at what happened. Instead of being treated like a victim, I was handcuffed because they smelt whiskey on my breath. I spent the next 48 hours in a holding cell, it was like what I imagine hell to be like, very sad. Since the officer was horrible, he failed to follow correct procedure. Jamey reviewed the body footage and advised the Judge to do so too. Because of this insight Jamey had, the DMV through out the case entirely. Typically, this sort of thing carries 1 year mandatory suspension of license.
I had a BAC of .089, which is right at the bottom of the legal limit. Jamey told me from day one that he would push for me to get a reduction of the charge to a “Wet Reckless”(carries lower fines and not a DUI charge).
One 12 hour class later and approximately $1000 in fines, I have moved on with my life.
Everytime I thought of that evening, I would get irate. I actually have had to stop thinking about it entirely in order to maintain myself and move on in a healthy way. Sometime after the 3rd phone call or so(I have lived in a different state for over a decade), Jamey would encourage me to not allow the things we couldn't change, to effect us today. That wisdom and care from this professional, went a very long way. I needed that perspective, he cared enough about his client to provide it and care for their mental state.
That's what I will think of when I think back to getting knocked out, with no justice and being jailed for 2 days, due to an error I made of parking on the street. The kindness of my attorney, what a great outcome for a miserable period of time.
Thank you for everything! I hope to see you in person and shake your hand, that would be one fine day!
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10 Apr, 2019 by P.
Jamey was a great attorney from the very beginning to the very end of my case. He listened to all of my concerns especially since I no longer live in the area. He assured me and was very clear that it was something he could represent me even from being far away! He is also very straightforward and updates you with every little detail throughout your case as fast as possible. I honestly was very nervous but after speaking to Jamey he made me feel like I was not alone and just kept my head up and move on from this mistake. I am very grateful for finding Jamey and having him help me with an expungement. I will always recommend him to anyone in need of representation.
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11 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I had the good fortune of being a client of Mr. Pernik, hands-down the best and most competent defense attorney practicing in the Monterey Peninsula-Salinas area, and beyond.
After an unexpected turn of events, I needed help with a legal case and appreciated the fact that Mr. Pernik was willing to represent me. As I worked with Mr. Pernik, Dustin, and other members of his team to resolve the issue, it became readily apparent that they worked well together, and in my best interest. In the end, the case was settled fairly, and I attribute that success to Mr. Pernik and his team's professionalism, integrity, and compassion.
I highly recommend Mr. Pernik, whether you're dealing with a straightforward case, or one that's more complex in nature. The legal representation that he provides will be first-rate, bar none.
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21 Dec, 2020 by Kenneth meyer
William will fight for you. He is compassionate and wise. He really knows his stuff and will focus on your needs and wants. If you're needing some serious help this is the lawyer to help you. He got my case dismissed when other attorneys would have failed .
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14 Oct, 2019 by Alex frem
I've been a client of Law Offices of William Pernik for a few years now. I've been seeking legal counsel on many situations, some of which had to do with selling possibly prohibited goods nationwide, some related to cannabis, and others with best course of action to be taken to avoid legal trouble.
His law firm gave me excellent advice every time. While I hope it will never come to this, I rest easy knowing I have access to a knowledgeable attorney in case I get into serious legal trouble.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Amanda
This amazing woman knowing that I couldn't afford to pay for her services still listened to me answered all my questions I feel she gave me her honest opinion and best advice .very personable and caring explained my rights and possible out comes very knowledgeable I would recommend her to anyone who needs a really good defense lawyer the best of the best and nothing less
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16 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Monique is an amazing lawyer, she really listens to her clients and gives them her honest opinion on the case. We knew I was innocent from the beginning of this whole ordeal but we had to go through the court process to prove it. She stayed in close contact with me, made me feel like I wasn't just another "win" I was an actual person. She worked with my finances so I could hire her. One of the nicest honest lawyers around! If anyone needs a lawyer I will be sure to send them her card!
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19 Jan, 2017 by Mariah
Monique is a wonderful lawyer. From the beginning she made me feel safe, understand, and she clearly listened to everything I had to say. She asked questions of myself and my case that I had not even thought about and helped me better understand myself and my situation. She was extremely realistic about my case and made me feel hopeful of the outcome. She got me exactly what I asked for, I couldn't have been happier. Monique has experience with many types of cases and is one of the most knowledgeable lawyers I know. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a compassionate, intelligent, hard working attorney who is determined to meet your needs.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Wave street studios
Thank you Phillip for coming to my rescue and getting the case against me dismissed. I've never been accused of a crime and didn't know what to do to fight the charge. Your early research of the facts and expert navigation through the process were the keys to our success. Thanks again, Rhett
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Michael k. scheid
Crawford Law firm is one of the top juvenile criminal attorneys in Salinas.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rob garcia
I ran into an unusual case that I needed someone in the field to fight for me. And that's exactly what she did. I'm grateful for her because she believed in me and went beyond her means to help me. It was a victory case and my innocence is restored again. And that's priceless. RG
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18 Apr, 2019 by Megan nicole
Michelle Wouden helped me get a second chance. Awesome public defender. She made things bearable for me in a horrible situation, because of her help I was treated as someone who needed help and not just some random criminal.
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26 Dec, 2013 by Levi
I was assigned Michelle late in 2013, as a result of restaffing in the public defenders office. After working in my case for a very emotional year, with a different lawyer, I was not excitect with the switch. It turned out to be the best thing ever. Michelle is super responsive, very diligent, and what I am most impressed with is the level of care, coupled with her follow through. People can say what they are gonna do all day. Michelle gets it done.
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04 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
She listened to my side and investagated what I said happened and she was able to get the Distrist Attorney to listen to her and drop my case! What a great lawyer. I was falsly accused and she was able to help me. She was given to me by the Public Defender's Office and she did a fantastic job.
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23 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I would like to begin by saying, what a wonderful experience I had with Mr.Mousa. He is an excellent attorney and a very compassionate kind man.. He kept in touch with me on a regular basis and kept me informed about my son's case.. no matter how big or small the circumstances were. He believed in my son's innocence. He fought for my son and saved him from spending the rest of his life in prison. Mr.Mousa's hard word and dedication payed off. I would recommend Mr.Mousa to anyone out there who is seeking an honest hard working and dedicated attorney.
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02 Jul, 2015 by Georgia
Mr. Patel will take the extra time to discuss your case, go over all possible outcomes, and will make you feel like you are his only case. I was fighting 5 felony charges and although it took over 2 years to come to an end, he got my entire case dismissed. He was very professional throughout and kept me on an excellent personal level of updates to my case.
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12 Dec, 2015 by Joseph g.
He was the best attorney I ever had he asnswered all my calls he came to see me we needed broke down and help me understand a lot of things about the law that I never knew.
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22 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Evan George got a dv case completely dropped. The D.A. had already sent out subpoenas and was threatening 3years probation, 30 days incarceration or community service, parenting classes as well as anger management and fines. Almost willing to take the deal when Evan George arrived and was not present for more than 10minutes, the next thing I hear is the D.A. has no case!! When you need help out of a scary and difficult situation turn to Evan George. He made sure to explain everything and was thorough. He eased my fears and went above and beyond for my family. He returned my calls and emails. I wouldn't have been so fortunate if I didn't have Evan on my side, let's just say I'd hate to be on the opposing side of Evan George! I didn't see any reviews for Evan so I was a little leary but now that we've overcome I'm happy to be the first to review for others to get an idea as to how awesome Evan is.
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04 Feb, 2014 by Kathryn
I would recommend this attorney to anyone who may be facing criminal prosecution.
John is understanding and nonjudgemental. He helped me through a very hard time. He can help you too.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Minister rose jesus
Thank you for responding to my call. You are AMAZING 🤩
I appreciate the referral at no cost!!!
My name is Rose D
Go check out his Firm
He’s about THE PEOPLES NEEEDS
That is Exactly what we Need.in this CORUPT world. WILLIAM PERNKIK
And WIFE OLGA! Go check them out.
I promise you
You won’t be disappointed at all
He wins All his Cases
😊
May GOD Continue to always bless you in abundance in everything in your life always
🙏
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Navraj chakal
Where do i start. It was my first experience as dui charges that i had to face. I luckily came across Charles H. Shivers and i quickly went through so many reviews and i decided to Call Charles, answered and assured me that he would work in my best interest. I first contacted Charles in 2023 July. From my call till today Charles stood out be the straight shooter. He told what he can and what he cannot. But as time went passed. I just want to sum it up that Charles not only got all my charges dismissed but was available on every call i made and every email we exchange. Today i confidently say he was like family over this past year and stood by me at every turn. If you need help with your Dui. Please with hesitation reach out to him. He stand by you like family.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Paul taylor
When you feel a Public Defender is not the answer to your problems. I asked myself, "who do I turn to"? Well, while thumbing through an endless amount of options I stumbled on Law Office of William V. Pernik. I was quickly invited in for a consultation. Almost immediately I felt the passion for my concerns regarding my case. The District Attorney (D.A) was trying to brand me with a criminal charge that I knew did not fit. The D.A. would not budge or listen to people or facts of my case. I was just a case # to them, they treated me as if I was not human. The Law Office of William V. Pernik very much understood my feelings, emotions, anxieties, and my fears. I chose Pernik. Mr. Pernik assigned a lawyer by the name of Mr. Ercolano to my case. At first glance, I was taken off guard. Before me, I saw a sharp dressed baby faced attorney. I was a bit puzzled. However, I was taught never judge by its cover. So together we rolled up our sleeves and went to work. The D.A. would stay firm on the decision to charge me, it did not matter the evidence in my favor. It was heartbreaking. My family and I could not even begin to start the healing process. Mr. Ercolano stated to me "We will not fold or agree to a plea agreement". Through it trials and tribulations. Through the sometimes, lengthy court process. Yes, we got the outcome that we were looking for! So much weight lifted off my shoulders. My family and I can officially put efforts into healing.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Tony ramos
Mr. Thelander and team were great to work with. They listened to what was going on, kept us informed with the process, decisions that needed to be made and options for paths forward as we navigated the challenges of court. I would highly recommend Thelander Law.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Carlo amado
I got a DUI and decided to call the Thelander Law Firm, and the experience was outstanding. Mr. Thelander and his team were well prepared to handle my case. My case was led by Mr. Erik Frey, and let me tell you, you will not find more dedicated representation. Mr. Frey exemplifies professionalism, dedication, and a genuine passion for his work that truly sets him apart.
From the get go, Mr. Frey demonstrated his commitment to my case. His hard work and attention to detail were evident in every interaction we had. He took the time to listen to my concerns, ensuring that he understood all the nuances of my situation. What struck me most about Mr. Frey was his genuine compassion. He approached my case with empathy, and answered any question or concern I had throughout the process. His genuine concern for me and my case went above and beyond what one would expect, and was invaluable, especially during a difficult time for me.
Communication is key when dealing with legal matters, and Mr. Frey highly excels in this area. He kept me informed at every stage, always calling to keep me updated, and explaining legal concepts in a clear and understandable manner. He would call periodically to check in as well, and reassure me of the progress of my case. I never felt in the dark about anything, thanks to Mr. Frey and his proactive communication style.
Overall, my experience with Mr. Erik Frey at Thelander Law Firm was nothing short of excellent. Surely his hard work, dedication, genuine compassion, and effective communication skills make him an invaluable asset to the firm and a trusted advocate for his clients. I would highly recommend Mr. Frey and the Thelander Law Firm to anyone looking for legal representation with a personal touch. Consider yourself lucky, if Mr. Frey is on your case.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Pedro
excellent attorney Thank you.
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08 Aug, 2024 by M mcmillan
My experiences with this stellar firm, its attorneys and staff were first class. I worked mostly with Juliet Peck, but also Cindy Negrete and Bernie Cerna (then a paralegal/legal assistant, but now an attorney). I felt that the entire firm, including Michael Lawrence, took a personal interest in my case. All the attorneys are well connected to the Monterey County legal community of other attorneys, judges, court clerks, experts, the Monterey County Bar Association, the Monterey College of Law and many others.
Juliet and her team worked very hard on my case. They took a personal interest in my case, which ran through the dreaded COVID time.
I watched Juliet, Cindy and Bernie in action in the courtroom, and they were "best of class." They had a rapport with the judges, court staff and even opposing attorneys. In the end, my results were extraordinary.
Attorneys are like surgeons and body shops: You want the very best when you need one, but you hope never to need one again. However, if I ever need one again, I'll go back to Lawrence & Peck. And, I know they will remember me and take good care of me.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie reilly
We were so lucky to be referred to Lawrence & Peck by our local attorney. Our attorney does not practice in the Salinas area and recommended Lawrence & Peck to handle a matter for us in Salinas. Everyone in the office is responsive and helpful. The legal advice we received and handling of our case in court was topnotch. We had a better outcome than I could have imagined thanks to the skill and expertise of the Lawrence & peck law firm.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Yanira pereira
Helpful, good communication, professional service
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22 Sep, 2024 by Arly chavez
From the moment I reached out for help with my ticket, their team was incredibly knowledgeable and kind. They took the time to explain every step of the process, making me feel assured and confident throughout.
Their communication was outstanding; I always felt informed and supported. I felt comfortable to ask any question, and they were quick to respond, which really put my mind at ease. I truly felt valued as a client, receiving top-notch service and attention.
A special shoutout to Beatriz!! Thank you so much!
Thanks to their professionalism and expertise, my ticket was dismissed! I’m so grateful for their hard work and dedication. If you need legal assistance, Chris Cain Law is THE traffic guy!!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Alexsa (gatita jayc)
Excelente servicio y calidad humana gracias por tu ayuda María Jones
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04 Sep, 2024 by Ollie dolan
Found Chris on Tik tok of all places and he saved me from a bad speeding ticket that would’ve been on my record for years and wouldve got me suspended. He got it completely dismissed and I didn’t have to do a thing! He didn’t even ask for this review I just owe it to him
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael macneill
The Best Defense Team on the planet.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Hi hello
Go elsewhere.. I wish I did.... Years later and I still regret not doing so.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jake luba
08 Jul, 2024 by Michael macneill
The Best Defense Team on the planet.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Hi hello
Go elsewhere.. I wish I did.... Years later and I still regret not doing so.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jake luba
08 Aug, 2024 by M mcmillan
My experiences with this stellar firm, its attorneys and staff were first class. I worked mostly with Juliet Peck, but also Cindy Negrete and Bernie Cerna (then a paralegal/legal assistant, but now an attorney). I felt that the entire firm, including Michael Lawrence, took a personal interest in my case. All the attorneys are well connected to the Monterey County legal community of other attorneys, judges, court clerks, experts, the Monterey County Bar Association, the Monterey College of Law and many others.
Juliet and her team worked very hard on my case. They took a personal interest in my case, which ran through the dreaded COVID time.
I watched Juliet, Cindy and Bernie in action in the courtroom, and they were "best of class." They had a rapport with the judges, court staff and even opposing attorneys. In the end, my results were extraordinary.
Attorneys are like surgeons and body shops: You want the very best when you need one, but you hope never to need one again. However, if I ever need one again, I'll go back to Lawrence & Peck. And, I know they will remember me and take good care of me.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie reilly
We were so lucky to be referred to Lawrence & Peck by our local attorney. Our attorney does not practice in the Salinas area and recommended Lawrence & Peck to handle a matter for us in Salinas. Everyone in the office is responsive and helpful. The legal advice we received and handling of our case in court was topnotch. We had a better outcome than I could have imagined thanks to the skill and expertise of the Lawrence & peck law firm.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Yanira pereira
Helpful, good communication, professional service
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25 May, 2024 by Nancy espinoza
He was unhelpful and took on the case even though he knew it would not help the client. He was unresponsive for a long time. We would have gotten the same result even with appointed counsel.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Aj garcia
Thank u soo much Mario was fighting a case for 2 years and got me the best deal I can get I highly recommend him thanks Mario 🙏
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18 Apr, 2024 by Gina cervantes
Definitely a person I’d recommend. Overall very professional and attentive to his clients. Gets back to you as soon as possible and answers any question you may have. Ladies at the office are very kind and welcoming. Thank you for your service and help.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Yesmin arevalo
21 Aug, 2024 by M v
They are good, efficient lawyers, but when they see that you have money left, they do everything they can to take it all from you. You end up paying more in calls, messages, and emails than you pay to go to court. I do not recommend them.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Martha santana
Mr. Scott is the BEST attorney you can ever hire to help you with your case. He went out of his way helping us with a child support case. I will always be appreciative and thankful for all of the help he provided to us. He is very knowledgeable, helpful attorney. Thank you for helping us so much. I really recommend Mr. Scoot as an attorney.
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26 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
He yells a lot. Could be the greatest guy just never got passed the yelling stage. All I know is he better have produced really beond expected results. He really would be selfish not to consider his loved ones and they need for him to live .
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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:
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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.
