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09 Sep, 2024 by Muhsin ahrar
They were so helpful
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05 Sep, 2024 by Shaquille hilton
I talked to many lawyers for my case he’s the most knowledgeable, reasonable, and personable highly recommend
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09 Feb, 2024 by Catherine schanno
Erin has been a true godsend in this horrible family law situation i have been dealing with for the past year. Not only was he fair in price but he found ways to help me get my billed paid to him. He has also helped me out with a criminal case that he didnt need to step up and help but because of what a great guy he is he is doing it.
I just want to say thank you Erin for everything you have done to help me and my family.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Robert hajir
11 Jan, 2023 by Suzanne
If you're looking for an outstanding criminal defense lawyer that will go the extra mile. Look no further. Andrew MacDonald was a fantastic representation for me. It was my first time hiring a criminal defense attorney particularly as a 68-year-old retired female with a strong professional background. This matter involved a very unnecessary and bizarre accusation from a neighbor in a quiet area where we recently relocated to.
Andrew is very professional in everything he did in my case. He is precise and to the point in explaining what my case was all about. He was very thorough.
I highly recommend Andrew MacDonald. He is extremely professional, knowledgeable, and diligent. As a former prosecutor, he knows the best defense strategy to pursue and is able to effect the best possible outcome for his client. Moreover, he combines his professional expertise with a caring, calm, and personable demeanor. A huge thank you for a very favorable outcome in my case.
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13 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Andrew is an exceptional lawyer and can help you achieve your desired outcome.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Sarah cramer
Mr. Emche was wonderful! He answered all my questions and kept me well informed during a long and arduous process. I would not have wanted any other attorney representing me. I highly recommend him! In the end, he achieved the expectations I had.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Gamingwith minai
11 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie marie arroyo -hall
Took my case and made me feel a sense of relief very helpful thanks Mr Marvel
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13 Jun, 2019 by Donna
Hired for an estate planning issue. He was reasonable, personable and very thorough I would use him again and would highly recommend.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Baybreezebabe
Took and won a case that nobody else would help me with.
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19 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Duvall represented me during my divorce case. He was always willing to listen to my point of view and consider my opinions. He consistently provided me with clear straight-forward legal advice and always had my best interests in mind. Mr. Duvall effectively negotiated my case and really came through for me. I was extremely pleased with my outcome and I would definitely recommend him to anyone. This was my first time needing a lawyer and I am very fortunate that I chose him.
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11 Oct, 2024 by David s
Nic took great care with my case. Handling the matter better than I could’ve asked for. Should you get yourself into trouble I highly recommend him. You won’t be sorry that you did.
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08 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Meghan handled my matter so promptly and professionally! It was comforting to know that she had everything under control from the moment I called her office.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I got a hefty ticket from Ocean City car show during October of 2020, I emailed Meghan right away regarding what happened and within the day, she quickly got back to me regarding the case and put me on the books. By the time the court date occurs, the law office of Nic B. Kuvshinoff braved the most recent snowstorm to fight for my case. Favorable results from lawyers you can depend on. Might anything happen in the future, I found a law firm I will most definitely be trusting and using.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
A criminal charge is never expected by most families. The urgency, seriousness, and despair can be understood only by the people or their families who had that experience. My son was charged with a misdemeanor which had never been imagined based on his school life. Mr. Hall was strongly recommended by my trusted colleague’s spouse who is also an attorney. With a wish to grab a straw in the middle of a miserable feeling, I left a message to his staff member, a nice lady, who had always been kind and calm. He called me back in the afternoon on the same day. My first impression of him was his confidence without hesitation and knowledge. He explained the process in detail, and we met after a week. I was surprised by his insight about the key aspects of the case and whom he should contact. To me, he had eyes seeing the whole picture from above and more than a sufficient network to get the necessary information and help in my county. Moreover, he showed understanding and emotional support, which is, I believe, a rare skill to the professional who deals with the law. He treated us as respectful human beings. He told us that there was a chance that my son could receive a stet, but the verdict was leaning toward PBJ in the process. On the court day, the final verdict my son recieved was stet! A miracle happened to us. Mr. Hall did not give up the possibility of stet and tried his every effort during the painful five weeks and even in court. Like an excellent pilot in severe turbulence when passengers can have no control, Mr. Hall persistently and nicely maneuvered our case so we could survive the worst experience in our lives. My wife and I sincerely appreciate Mr. Hall for saving my son’s future and us. If my friends ask me, I will strongly recommend him without any reservations.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Our son was a college student at Salisbury University and was wrongfully charged with first degree rape, which can carry a life sentence! We knew on the advice of attorneys in our hometown to find a lawyer in the area who knew the way things worked in Wicomico County. Mr. Hall was a former prosecutor so he knows how both sides think, and he knows the judges! William worked diligently on our sons case through the help of a private detective and an expert witness to prove to the state that this was not a rape case at all and had the matter resolved to a simple misdamenaor with a "time served" sentence. All the other charges were dropped! William took the time to answer our questions and and kept us updated every step of the way! He never made us feel like we were bothering him and understood how difficult this was on our family. Most importantly, he genuninely cared about our son and was able to get him his freedom back! If you ever find yourself in any kind of trouble on the Eastern shore don't hesitate to call William Hall! We're sure glad we did!
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14 May, 2023 by Andrew
William Hall is an amazing attorney. He was very professional and down to Earth. I was charged with 10 charges against me everything was dropped and put onto a stet docket. No court fees, no probation nothing. It was all done with in about 5-10 minutes. AMAZING I truly recommend this man it couldn't have gone better. Thank you for all you do your the best
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27 Jan, 2020 by Roberta
Mr. Clark represented our son recently on a felony theft charge. He was knowledgeable, attentive, and had our son's best interest in mind throughout this ordeal. He fought hard on behalf of our son and we were very pleased with the outcome. I would highly recommend him to anyone!
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09 Apr, 2019 by Michelle
MR. CLARKE A NAME I WILL REMEMBER. IN DEALING WITH ATTORNEYS PERIOD KIND OF CAN GET A BAD RAP, BECAUSE THEY WERE PRETTY MUCH ALL THE SAME TO A DEGREE. VERY HELPFUL AND PROMISING IN THE BEGINNING UNTIL THEY GET YOUR MONEY AND THEN U FEEL LIKE A AFTER THOUGHT AND THAT I WAS BOTHERING THEM. BUT MY EXPERIENCE WITH MR. CLARK WAS TOTALLY DIFFERENT HE WAS BLOUNT AND TO THE POINT AND I CAN APPRECIATE PEOPLE LIKE THAT TO LET ME KNOW WHAT IM WORKING WITH AND THE POSSIBILITIES. HE WAS VERY ATTENTIVE AND LISTENED TO ALSO WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR AS IF IT DID MATTER. ALWAYS ANSWERED MY CALLS AND I FELT LIKE HE CARED ENOUGH TO FIGHT FOR AND TO GO ABOUT IT IN A WAY TO GET THE RESULTS WE WERE LOOKING FOR . GOD KNOWS I PRAY AND BELIEVE I WONT HAVE TO USE HIM AGAIN BUT I DO THANK GOD FOR PUTTING HIM IN MY PATH AND I WOULD REFER HIM BELIEVE ME TO ANYONE WHO IS LOOKING FOR A GREAT CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY THIS MAN WAS AWESOME. SO LAID BACK, PASSIONATE, VERY PROFESSIONAL AND TRULY GOOD AT WHAT HE DOES. NEED I SAY I HAD CHECKED AROUND PRIOR TO COMING IN CONTACT WITH HIM AND HIS FEES ARE PHENOMENAL. BUT REALLY I COULD NEVER PAY HIM WHAT HIS WORTH WAS TO ME. MR. CLARK GOD BLESS YOU, MAY GOD CONTINUE TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN GOOD HEALTH AND SPIRITS SO THAT YOU MAY LIVE LIFE AND MORE ABUNDANTLY CONTINUING TO HELP OTHERS AS YOU HAVE DONE FOR ME AND MY FAMILY. LOVE YOU MICHELLE ( IT IS NOT EVEN 5AM IN THE MORNING BUT MY SPIRIT WOULD NOT EVEN ALLOW ME TO REST UNTIL I POSTED THIS)
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04 May, 2018 by Bill
Attorney Lee Clarke saved me from a major felony conviction and prison. No matter what the prosecutor tried, he outsmarted her.
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13 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
My experience with William Fisher has been excellent. He is extremely knowledgeable about my business needs, and ensures I understand all aspects of the matter through his clear and concise communication. William has treated my business as if it were his own. I will continue to hire William, and I give him my highest possible recommendation.
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09 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Hank was very helpful and attentive on a prior traffic violation in Northampton Virginia!!
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08 Feb, 2018 by Taylor wade
Just switched to using William Fisher for our company's various needs and have had nothing but success thus far. He has proven to be very responsive to every request we have thrown his way and gives us the sense that he actually cares about our problems as one of his own.
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12 Aug, 2016 by Vonda
My brother was arrested in January and was just released this week. David was his public defender. I am an attorney in Texas. David was amazing! He knew the system and advocated valiantly for my brother. He assisted us in so many ways during this process, I'll never be able to thank him enough! Trying the case was risky, but David succeeded in getting a result that was amazing short of trial -- and that takes talent and familiarity with the court and the system. Rest easy if he is in your loved ones' corner.
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15 Sep, 2009 by Laine
I can't thank him enough! I think the definition of Justice is David Weck. There is no other choice, if your thinking about a lawyer...he is the answer!
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28 Feb, 2009 by Wm a lee
I was charged with an armed robbery, that I did not commit; but, I couldn't afford a private attorney.
I thank God that Ass't Public Defender David Weck was assigned to defend me. He fought for me, at a jury trial, and all charges were dismissed.
Carla Nicole Koester
Salisbury, MD
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02 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Very responsive re: personal injury case. Good attention to detail; very professional.
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11 Sep, 2020 by Robert
Ms. Gilbert was always professional and attentive to my case relevant to the traffic citations I received from a motor vehicle collision on May 4, 2020.
Her communication skills are excellent. Ms. Gilbert was easy to talk with and her legal explanations were easy to understand. She was patient when I would ask her to clarify and often would present the concept in a different way to facilitate my understanding.
Ms. Gilbert was able to diffuse my anxiety (my first court experience) and expertly achieved the best legal outcome for me.
I am appreciative of Ms. Gilbert's work on my behalf and will advise others who need an experienced, knowledgeable and caring attorney, to seek her advice.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Robert hajir
18 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Britt has an above average communication style with his clients. He will give you an honest assessment of the case. He is compassionate, patient, and extremely knowledgeable. He was obviously very experienced. Case was dismissed.
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17 Jul, 2015 by D w
He is a rather new and up in coming lawyer, He was recommended to me through a mutual friend, let me tell you I've used him twice for some heavy hitting charges. I had a very serious drug possession charge and then two years later I got an even more serious drug charge, I was caught with the worse drug in the eyes of the law some other drugs and paraphernalia. I am not saying what I did was right but that charge was the final straw so I went to rehab, he definitely had his work cut out for him I was facing 5 years easy. He was very encouraging with me getting treatment for my well being not just a defense strategy. And he didn't fill my head with false hope about me just getting off everything Scott free, he was realistic. And kept me informed every step of the way. So time for sentencing I was handed 18 months and it was suspended except a month and boom just like that there goes my job I had held for 10 years. Plus I was on a medication they wouldn't provide in jail that was corresponding with my treatment, he spoke with the judge and got it put down to a "work release-esque" type community services for the month so i was able to keep my fiancé and and my job and stay in treatment, if not I probably would of relapsed after I got out of jail or ended up doing my full 18 months with no probation. So that was the best case scenario that could of ever happened. It's all thanks to his compassion and ambition, wit and sheer brilliance. He is a fantastic lawyer.. He still calls me to this day to see how I am doing, I've been clean ever sense. He gave me a second chance that I wouldn't of gotten without him. I would have been stuck i the "revolving" door that getting caught in the system is. That I've seen happen to many times, I owe my sobriety and freedom to this maybe overlooked and underestimated lawyer Nathan long is. He is truly great and I owe my life To him. He wants to win, but he wants to help people more, so please if you need a criminal defense or any type of lawyer call Nathan long of Salisbury, you surely will be satisfied with his legal approach.
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13 May, 2011 by Robert
Hal represented me in an ugly civil case (the nature of which I cannot disclose) in late 2010. I can say without a doubt that Hal is the sharpest, most tenacious, ruthless (to the point of being ugly) attorney you could ever want on your side. He runs a one-man, reasonably priced operation - but is capable of becoming any high dollar law firm or large corporation’s worst nightmare. It’s nice to be on the winning side… but keep in mind two things: 1) you *really* need to hate the people you going after; and 2) you need to be strong enough to reign in a pit bull - or the other side may end up being mauled to pieces.
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10 Aug, 2024 by David gaudette
They made everything extremely easy and the result was better than I could have ever imagined. Mr. Phoebus saved me thousands in fines and increased insurance. I am 1000% satisfied with my experience.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Caleb langford
25 Jun, 2024 by John o
10 Aug, 2024 by David gaudette
They made everything extremely easy and the result was better than I could have ever imagined. Mr. Phoebus saved me thousands in fines and increased insurance. I am 1000% satisfied with my experience.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Caleb langford
25 Jun, 2024 by John o
30 Aug, 2024 by Nic carey
Mr. Britt was great! Very communicative. He was able to get my CASES handled and dismissed very swiftly. I have his information saved. If you want your case(s) handled efficiently and effectively, you’ll call Mr.Britt. Couldn’t thank him enough.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Frank dunn
Could not have asked for a better criminal defense attorney! Always available for concerns within a short response time (same day or next). Timely, professional, knowledgeable and familiar with the local officials within local courts. Best of all reasonable pricing compared to other over priced attorneys that in my experience offered less in terms of personally addressing my specific needs as a client. In short, a 3 star price rate for 5 star service! I have no plans on needing future representation but if I do Britt criminal defense will get my call!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Cory r
James did a wonderful job representing my son and was successful in dismissing the case all together. He was professional, kind and straight to the point. We couldnt be more pleased and highly recommend his firm to anyone seeking legal counsel.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
All I can say that is the best lawyer in town .. great personality and friendly
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16 May, 2018 by Tracey
I was not happy with his representation. His office was prepared to file a petition on my behalf with no preparation. Would never recommend.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I had some unexpected legal issues that threatened to affect my future career and potentially put me behind bars. I was charged with four misdemeanors and though I knew I was innocent of all the charges, the person who I was up against was in a position of authority and made it hard to drop the case.
Mr. Gonzalez was the second lawyer that I contacted and I thank God that he led me to get a consultation with him. He was professional, personable, respectful, energetic, EXTREMELY knowledgeable, and I could tell that he cared about my well-being and that of my family. On top of all of that he was also thousands of dollars MORE AFFORDABLE and much better than the lawyer I spoke to initially. He was also very resourceful. He had a great knowledge of the judges, prosecutors and precedents in the area and that was extremely valuable in my case. He was also very prompt in returning calls and emails.
He and I believed that we could have taken the court to a jury trial and won the case, however in the interest of time, I requested to look for other ways to resolve the case. He laid out all of the options that I had and helped me pick an option that made the most sense for me time-wise and that was safest for my future. I ultimately avoided jail time, I will not have anything stay on my record and we resolved this in a timely manner. I cannot thank Mr. Gonzalez enough for his hard work and authenticity. My family and I are forever grateful for his services.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Amy ward
Wow Jeff Badger was amazingly thorough and efficient. He had all of his ducks in a row and handled my case with a quickness I did not expect. He made the process very quick and easy. I highly recommend him.
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21 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I tried to work with Jan. The relationship soured very early on when he refused to listen to my concerns. He failed to address the obv situations with my divorce. He failed to listen to what I was telling him. He represented me in a matter that he absolutely screwed up which put me behind the 8 ball for the remainder of case. He was in way over his head. And once that was realized he tried to blame me for not doing what he requested, which is a hilarious lie. He dropped me with 5 business days to a trial, which I am being told is a ethical issue. His stated reason was that I was going to fire him anyway. Have it in writing no less. The professionalism of the guy is lacking.
You can use this guy but there are far better and far more knowledgeable and ethical.
I also believe that he was working with my spouses attorney as much of what he did is simply unexplainable any other way. As this is a small town with a thriving good ol boys network, BE WARNED.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Suzanna mallow
I was inquiring about past work this firm had done. Jeff Badger called me back and was very informative.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Alex tingle
30 Dec, 2022 by Lacey
25 Aug, 2022 by Jessica wilder
If I could give no stars I would. They like to have clients who are completely worthless parents. Then try and make them look like super parents and talk very badly to the other parent. They are helping addicts get custody of their kids and putting children in danger. What goes around comes around.
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11 Sep, 2019 by Gregory
Mr. Wescott was very professional, and efficient. His knowledge and preparation was excellent. I would highly recommend Mr. Wescott for freedom or satisfaction.
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14 Aug, 2019 by Ms. white
Mr. Wescott’s services were highly recommend to me by a close friend. I was facing several felony charges, which carried significant jail time. Mr. Wescott was extremely knowledgeable and efficient in assisting me with my legal troubles. He was successful in concluding the matter, and I didn’t have to do any jail time. I would recommend him to anyone. He’s fairly priced, keeps you informed, and fights hard for his clients; he’s an excellent attorney.
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07 Jul, 2017 by Chaundra
I hired Mr. Wescott to represent me in a criminal court case. He was very helpful when it came to making sure I had a clear understanding of my charges. He also made sure that all information involved was accurate. I would definitely recommend Mr. Wescott to anyone having legal trouble.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Labrenia miller
I called on behalf of my husband to potentially hire this man and he refused to listen to why I was calling the nature of the case and told me that my husband need to call a public defender. He was very nasty and rude for no reason.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Joel lankford
Great Attorney straight up very professional and will not disappoint he is one of the best in the business
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18 Jul, 2022 by Jeff bacon
Very professional and a really good person and friendly
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11 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie marie arroyo -hall
Had my issues resolved, they educated me on my financial issues and that was 2007 and now I have good credit and thanks to legal aid they handed my bankruptcy and they gave me tools to learn with the online course I took while handling my bankruptcy so leagl aid thanks I'm one that listened to all you had to offer
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24 Jan, 2024 by Chapó guzmán
Just stopped there for a quick moment but it was nice
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11 Jul, 2023 by S. r
If I could give 0 stars I would. Was advised that I was eligible for service in Jan 2023 it’s now July and yet my bankruptcy hasn’t been filed. Finally get a call and the lawyer states she doesn’t think bankruptcy is a good option. I owe over 175k in debt with limited income and you don’t think? Why even waste my time and hopes now I’m back at square one trying to avoid debt callers and more stress that I can’t deal with. I I knew I would have just saved enough and hired my own.
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20 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
The only time I was able to meet with Ms. Alfonsi was 2 weeks before my court date and the date of. At no time during those 2 weeks did I hear from her regarding evidence the State's Attorney had nor how she planned to handle my case.
Fast forward to the day of Court, she was almost an hour late.
You get what you pay for, I guess. Her fee was low and her representation was not up to par.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
