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27 Jul, 2022 by Brian “windy” winter
Ugh 😣😫 I have a few minutes 😃😂 I have a meeting at your place 😉🐱 and your mom is it 🙂🤣 3 I will get my life in my life
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20 Aug, 2021 by Karen & elvis cabral
05 Jan, 2021 by Ralph varoz
14 Oct, 2024 by Splash mermaid tails
I have never been so discriminated against as today!
As soon as I enter to the office, the receptionist started talking to me in Spanish, telling me that I had to borrow a computer from a relative or go to a library with Wi-Fi to fill out a form.
Assuming I didn't have a computer!!!
immediately after she gave me a list of people who give free consultations, and who did not charge for their service.
Again assuming I didn’t have money.
She told me that the lawyer was very busy and probably couldn't help me because she didn't speak Spanish.
Assuming I didn’t speak English!
and that it would be better if I called someone on the list that she gave me.
I am a business owner and I am pretty sure I have more money than she will ever see in her whole life, have 3 computers and was looking for that attorney because I could pay for her consultation and her service.
So sad that this firm has a person like this woman at the front desks. Assuming for what she sees and sending the business to someone else.
I will not bring my business to this firm
This is not a good place for anyone
Teach your employees about racism.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Ben hall
We had a great experience Anthony & Kass! I had an unemployment appeal hearing I needed to go to and Anthony & Kass helped us prepare for it successfully. Great people to work with & would 100% recommend them to anyone!
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19 Aug, 2024 by T enterprise
Called multiple times to get assistance with a case. No reply back. Their automated message kept insisting I use their online consultation form so I filled that out and got an email that basically stated my case doesn't fit their criteria even though they advertise in practicing in the exact type of law that I need. Sucks to hear since they were referred to me. I still haven’t talked to a human at their office so they can hear my story.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Alice
Nothing but good things to say about the practice. Elmore law helped me with my proceedings in a timely, efficient, clear, and helpful way. Angela is a complete professional and I'm happy to sing her praises. The prices are very reasonable and you will get top quality representation. They also have a very positive reputation with courts and judges. Absolutely recommend reaching out to see what they can do for you!
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03 Feb, 2024 by Joseph moratalla
Angela was so professional in handling my case. She’s very efficient and cared for the details. I would highly recommend her services. Thanks Angela.🎈
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24 Jan, 2024 by Sandra laos
Angela was fantastic with the process. I was helping my mom with her divorce (due to language barrier) and Angela was quick to respond all the questions and was amazing through the entire process. I would recommend this law firm 100%.
Thank you to Angela and team!!
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31 Oct, 2023 by Kourtnie bush
Chad has been our family lawyer for years he’s helped me through tough cases as well as being respectful and upfront. This man is a shark and knows right from wrong and i couldn’t suggest a better lawyer.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Sheila foley
26 Jul, 2022 by Edward hannan
3.5 STAR REVIEW OF CHAD STEUR LAW
Chad regularly lies and tramples the rules--which might be fine to you, if you benefit from his cheating. He is an impetuous attack dog who cares about his clients and fights hard for them. He is what people, myself included, look for in a litigator. While most attorneys are averse to conflict, Chad is not. Moreover, Chad is not greedy like many attorneys. Then why not a five-star review, you say?
Chad's problem is that he lacks wisdom. He fights--and usually wins--legal battles that might ultimately, and unwittingly, lead to your losing the war. Though I recommend Chad, he is like nitroglycerine; so I suggest you consult a second attorney before you let Chad loose.
(The above is my opinion as a lay person based on my dealings with Chad Steur. I do not present it as a statement of irrefutable fact.)
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25 Jan, 2025 by Gavin hatter
Great idea, poor execution. I think Rasa is an awesome company trying to do cool things however my experience was not good. I was promised two things by Rasa only to have them not follow through on both. I would recommend another service
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16 Nov, 2024 by Mike packard
25 Oct, 2024 by O
11 Jan, 2024 by Brynn hancock
I paid Cameron in September 2023 to handle my case. He has done nothing on it.
No communication, nothing has been filed and I was told it would take approximately 30 days. Very discouraged.
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03 Apr, 2023 by Debbie wilcox
Cameron is the best attorney around. He's my HERO!
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14 Dec, 2022 by Heather margetts
Retained Cameron for his legal expertise and assistance. Very disappointed in the lack of communication, follow through and actually handling my legal needs. After almost 2 years of unnecessary back and forth to get my uncontested divorced finalized, I have had to hire another attorney to get this wrapped up. Disappointing and extremely frustrating.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Dora
Robb was awesome. He handled a case for me and got it resolved at the first court hearing. He was always attentive and would respond to my calls or messages. Highly recommend him.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
An effective advocate and counselor in the matters we worked on together - ESA
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02 Aug, 2022 by Natalie
I can’t begin to tell you how thankful I am for Robb. Things of this nature are always stressful & he helped me feel calm and taken care of throughout the process of working with him. He got me what I was praying for. He is very good at what he does. Hire him. Let him do his thing. You would be happy you did.
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21 Aug, 2019 by Charles
I originally wrote a review of my experience with Mr. Wharton, but I was instructed that I couldn't write what I had written about my experience with him as a lawyer. This is my second attempt, I will state that he has a partner and a paralegal this is amazing. I would utilize them before I would utilize Mr. Wharton.
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13 Feb, 2017 by Hailey
I recently hired Chris to help me with an expungement I have been putting off due to worries about time and money. Chris's assistant helped me through each step of the process and always had everything prepped and ready for me to look over and sign when I arrived. Chris made sure I felt taken care of and was always available to answer all my questions. The office is very nice and the whole staff is very professional and efficient. I would highly recommend Chris Wharton Law to anyone in Salt Lake County or the surrounding areas looking for an affordable, high-quality lawyer.
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10 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Late, lacks communication, dresses inappropriate for court, not prepared, not familiar with the laws or proper processes.
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25 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
After interviewing several lawyers I decided to retain Kelly Ann Booth. I was impressed by how aggressive she was--though the retainer fee was steeper than other lawyers. I liked her personality and felt she would represent me well. That faded over time as she showed up late to my initial hearing. She never contacted me or kept me apprised of what was happening. I didn't feel like she was representing me very well so I found another lawyer. It was an expensive lesson--as I lost my entire retainer and didn't really have anything to show for it. I think she could be a very capable lawyer, but I wouldn't hire her or recommend her.
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03 Aug, 2018 by Josh
I was very impressed with Kelly Ann Booth and her partner Rudy Bautista. They are very aggressive defense attorneys. We fought my case to trial and after a 2 hour deliberation the jury came back not guilty. Such a gratifying moment. Kelly Ann and Rudy worked hard on my case from start to finish.
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15 May, 2018 by Amanda
We had the honor of having Kelly Ann represent us recently for a criminal matter related to my spouse. Not only did Kelly Ann get us the best outcome possible and do an amazing job fighting on our behalf, she also helped us get through the whole expungement process as well to get the arrest taken off his record. If you find yourself or a loved one in trouble with the law, you can’t go wrong with Kelly Ann.
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18 Aug, 2016 by Sondra willhoite
I think Wade is great. He not only helped me with my divorce but, he oversaw my protective order case. He is upfront, down to earth and keeps in touch. I'm really happy with Wade's professionalism and kindness. Thank you Wade.
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26 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Wade has been an incredible attorney. He works efficiently and always gets back to me within a timely manner. He is kind, honest and fair. He is patient and understanding with me and has kept me up to date on the status of things throughout my entire case. I will continue to recommend him to friends and family!
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24 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Honestly, I could not have asked for a better attorney. First, I never hoped to ever need an attorney for my divorce, but secondly, I always heard about how horrible attorney's are for returning their client's phone calls. Never have I been more wrong. Who would have thought my attorney would be so quick to answer all of my questions whether it be through email, phone, or sometimes even for a last minute in-office visit? Unfortunately, divorce is becoming more and more common. If anyone needs a divorce, this is the guy to go to!
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27 Jul, 2022 by Brian “windy” winter
Ugh 😣😫 I have a few minutes 😃😂 I have a meeting at your place 😉🐱 and your mom is it 🙂🤣 3 I will get my life in my life
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20 Aug, 2021 by Karen & elvis cabral
05 Jan, 2021 by Ralph varoz
27 Jul, 2022 by Brian “windy” winter
Ugh 😣😫 I have a few minutes 😃😂 I have a meeting at your place 😉🐱 and your mom is it 🙂🤣 3 I will get my life in my life
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20 Aug, 2021 by Karen & elvis cabral
05 Jan, 2021 by Ralph varoz
27 Jul, 2022 by Brian “windy” winter
Ugh 😣😫 I have a few minutes 😃😂 I have a meeting at your place 😉🐱 and your mom is it 🙂🤣 3 I will get my life in my life
Read more
20 Aug, 2021 by Karen & elvis cabral
05 Jan, 2021 by Ralph varoz
27 Jul, 2022 by Brian “windy” winter
Ugh 😣😫 I have a few minutes 😃😂 I have a meeting at your place 😉🐱 and your mom is it 🙂🤣 3 I will get my life in my life
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20 Aug, 2021 by Karen & elvis cabral
05 Jan, 2021 by Ralph varoz
27 Jul, 2022 by Brian “windy” winter
Ugh 😣😫 I have a few minutes 😃😂 I have a meeting at your place 😉🐱 and your mom is it 🙂🤣 3 I will get my life in my life
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20 Aug, 2021 by Karen & elvis cabral
05 Jan, 2021 by Ralph varoz
15 Feb, 2025 by Paul waldron
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle parks
Julia Kyte from the start was professional and knew her stuff. She was my biggest advocate and helped me to win. Thank you for everything.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Conner rushton
15 Feb, 2025 by Paul waldron
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle parks
Julia Kyte from the start was professional and knew her stuff. She was my biggest advocate and helped me to win. Thank you for everything.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Conner rushton
24 Mar, 2021 by Tyson
she is dishonest she will take your money and never enter an appearance or file anything and say your retainer was spent reading the case she could not even figure out how to open a google link she made me send evrey document by email and then could not remember what is what honestly she was very personable at first but after a month with nothing and after having paid and she told me she could not appear for me i said i did not need her help and would like my money back as she had did nothing and she got very confrontational if you want to win your case i recommend do not hire her !!!
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12 Feb, 2020 by Kourtney
Frances worked aggressively for me but always made me feel at ease and was always willing to explain what was going on at anytime! She helped make my family complete and we couldn't thank her enough!
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24 Aug, 2017 by Jim
I had been falsely accused of a crime and I was working with a different attorney who was taking my case in the wrong direction. On recommendation of a friend I called Frances. She immediately recognized what had to be done and proved my innocence! Frances worked aggressively for me but was always calm, professional, courteous, and above all very caring.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I contacted this attorney asking some very basic questions. I was told he would email me back but never did. I then messaged him on AVVO and he never responded.
I can understand if he is not interested in my case, but why waste people time by not replying.
Very disappointing.
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20 Oct, 2016 by George
I had contacted my nephew , a lawyer in California, because of a serious escalation in the harassment to myself from an individual who was an acquaintance I had known here in California but had moved to Utah. This individual was calling me at home, at my office accusing me of the most ludicrous offenses against him, his family and even his pets. This had been going on for quite awhile but when his harassment went from threatening phone calls to being served a restraining order , a small claims court case, and trying to get a D.A. order for my arrest for alleged hate crimes against him and his family, I had to protect myself and get legal advice and representation. I was worried and did not know what to do until I contacted my nephew. Unfortunately he was not licensed to practice law in the state of Utah, but fortunately he asked his senior partners if they had a recommendation and they all said without a doubt the law firm of Andrew Deiss was who I should contact. Well that was over a year ago and I am so fortunate that I was directed to him. From day one Andrew's law firm has had my back, have taken care of me legally and emotionally by giving me peace of mind and all the reassurance that I am safe and they are there for me. I cannot say enough about the confidence I have in Andrew Deiss and his team and their professionalism ,attention to detail and the sage advice I always receive from him. Needless to say he and his law firm's legal expertise and understanding of the law is one of the best and top ranked in the state of Utah. This is quite evident in all my interactions with Andrew and the members of his law firm and his staff. If nothing else his track record speaks for itself. I am still in contract with the law firm and they are on the constant look out for me to be sure that no adverse action is being taken out against me. I know that my well being is number one priority to him and that I am not just a nameless file . I truly feel that Andrew, his law firm, all the other lawyers and the lay staff ( especially Stacey ) cares for me and my situation. I can sleep well at night knowing that the law firm of Andrew Deiss is on my side and I am so grateful and appreciative of all they do for me. I cannot thank Andrew and his team enough for having my back and giving me the best legal care and advice I could possibly have. Without a doubt I would highly recommend Andrew Deiss and his team to anyone in need of legal counsel , you will not be disappointed and you will not find a better more dedicated lawyer.
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26 Sep, 2013 by Garrett handy
I recommend Andy Deiss. I hired Andy to help me with a small matter and was impressed at how quickly he got up to speed on the issues in my case. Andy is experienced, savvy and smart. He made himself available to me and gave me sound advice. He helped me keep things in the right perspective and looked out for my interests.
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15 Feb, 2025 by Paul waldron
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle parks
Julia Kyte from the start was professional and knew her stuff. She was my biggest advocate and helped me to win. Thank you for everything.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Conner rushton
15 Feb, 2025 by Paul waldron
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle parks
Julia Kyte from the start was professional and knew her stuff. She was my biggest advocate and helped me to win. Thank you for everything.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Conner rushton
15 Feb, 2025 by Paul waldron
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle parks
Julia Kyte from the start was professional and knew her stuff. She was my biggest advocate and helped me to win. Thank you for everything.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Conner rushton
15 Feb, 2025 by Paul waldron
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle parks
Julia Kyte from the start was professional and knew her stuff. She was my biggest advocate and helped me to win. Thank you for everything.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Conner rushton
13 Jun, 2018 by Thomas matthew
Utah law does allow for an annulment, but it is very challenging and very rarely granted. They are complex cases and the rules are very precise on what is allowed for annulment.
I had a complex issue that I strongly believed constituted an annulment vs a divorce. Justin Ashworth conferred with me directly on multiple occasions and advised at the onset of the case that this would be a challenge and that there is no guarantee the Judge would grant an annulment and possibley make me choke down a divorce. I was worried as the Judge advised on preliminary hearing that he had never granted an annulment and wondered why a divorce would not apply., Justin Ashworth did his research in case law, conferred with me in person to obtaini exhibits and listen to my story. He developed a game plan on how to proceed throughout the process. Practiced with me and put together the case.
Justin Ashworth was able to eloquently answer that question the Judge had asked why an annulment and not divorce. I was granted my annulment. This was indeed a challenging case and I am very pleased will the patience, professionalism work that Justin Ashworth provided. I hope I never have to use him again but if I had another family law issue, I definitely would not hesitate to use him again.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Mark
I paid him $2500 initially to look into any appeals available to concerning a DCFS support decision affecting my daughter. Decision was made by an "administrative law judge" without a notice or opportunity to appear. There is a reason this clown doesn't have an office or a way to contact him - he doesn't want to be found. When I attempt to fire him for doing virtually nothing my certified mail to his website address was returned as non-deliverable. I filed a complaint with the Utah State Bar and he made false statements and submitted bogus billing charges mostly for "internet searches" at $225 an hour. Lazy and incompetent!
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Before hiring Justin, I had hired another attorney (Ste... Ch.........). That attorney (Ste... Ch.........) was the worst attorney. The moment I hired Justin, I could see the differences and the progress in my divorce case. He is the ultimate professional. He answered my questions in detail. He returned my call every time.
He is very knowledgeable and understands your situations very well.
He is simply outstanding. I would recommend anyone to him for the divorce matter.
A+ to this attorney.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I didn't even comprehend before I had Sarah represent me that an attorney could be so terrible. She does way more harm than good. I was completely transparent with her, went into detail about everything. She listens and nods, as if it's all sinking in. She had my case for months and right before we are scheduled to talk to the judge she told me I didn't have a case. My ex is a diagnosed sociopath. She had no clue about parental alienation and she's a family law attorney. IMO she shouldn't even have a law license.
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02 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Sarah advised me many times to do things that ended up causing more harm than good and just cost more money. She was not able to handle the stress of my case and had a hard time “winning” on any level. When I confronted her with my concerns, she was rude, condescending and belittling. I would not reccomend her to anyone.
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18 Nov, 2017 by Ethan
Was in a lengthy custody battle and just in general with my sons mother we were never married. Throughout Sarah and her assistant were there every step of the way even at one point I was granted full temporary custody as a man in Utah that happens very little. She's a truly caring person that will give you your money's worth. Utah needs to be better about enforcing law and about realizing sex is just that and has no bearing on who is better for a child. In reality both are best separate or not cause at times one or the other may not be the better parent. For a situation so complex Sarah is a good person to have to help you through it.
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27 Jan, 2022 by David
Mr. Cook is very knowledgeable and experienced. Glen has provided guidance to me on two occasions. Glen took my case before an administrative law judge and prevailed on the merits. It was a difficult journey and Glen and/or his staff was there for questions, explain the law, encouragement and of course, sometimes to correct my thinking. "Just the facts," is the motto! It is helpful if you listen carefully and ask questions, keep an open mind. At times things might seem difficult, yet you must learn to adapt. There is no such thing as a "slam dunk." Mr. Cook will give you a candid opinion (might seem blunt); however, this is his style. On meeting, assess whether you think he will be a good match, then evaluate your situation accordingly. Mr. Cook is the best of the best in my opinion; I was more than satisfied with the outcome!
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18 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Glen Cook was my first foray into the scary world of Disability. I had spoken with his paralegal? over the phone & thought, she was great, she asked all the right questions and felt my case was a slam dunk. (It was). She set up a consult for the next day.
However, Cook was not as impressive. (Just don't tell him that) as he condescending spoke to my wife and I. I happened to repeat what I felt were key points and he asked my wife "does he always do that? We've already covered that" and suggested a mental health evaluation, (for clarifying my position!?) The cost of which would come out of my pocket after the case was closed! What? Did I hear you correctly? I'm about to pay you 6K for a day's work! So I said, "look, I don't know what you're talking about, my case is a physical issue, not a mental one & I'm asking you to be my attorney, not my doctor". (He also misinterpreted a "new law" that would have cost me about $12K) He then sarcastically told my wife that she should show all my medical records to "whoever we found to take the case" she asked, "so you're not going to take it"? He replied "No". I guess you need to kiss his a** to be a client and, that's just not me. We left that office very upset, this was our first shot and I felt afraid I'd screwed things up. (yet I had to listen all about his G.B. Packer partial ownership) Bottom line Mr. Cook is an egomaniac, with a mental disorder of his own. Our next stop got me the proper amount ($12K+ more than if Cook had taken it) and of course, no silly doctors were ever mentioned. I won without going to court. I suppose I should send him a Thank You card. I was never able to assess his legal skills but his bedside manner needs a ton of work. Go elsewhere and save some humiliation and more unnecessary stress. This process has plenty of that without an adversarial relationship with your own advocate. I'm certain all would agree with that. (see all these other reviews, even good ones refer to his "brusque" manner & pay close attention) I should have done it myself, but it appeared just too daunting a task. I'm not going to recommend anyone but if you like being treated like a child sent to their room & grounded, Glen Cook may just be your guy. He doesn't deserve a star, which would be more accurate.
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16 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I have spoken to many attorneys and never one as Over-rated Glen A Cook. His conduct was very disappointingly diarespectful and rude to my wife. His communication was condescending, like a Sheldon on Big Bang Theory. His actions and words proved he does not really care about a client, just himself.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Alex flanigan
They were very responsive and easy to work with throughout our adoption process.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Katy kelly
We just had our finalization of our adoption. It was a smooth, very friendly and uplifting experience. They took care of everything, talked us through the process and now we are a family of THREE! Thank you!!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Daniel mette
Kirton McConkie made our adoption process very easy. They guided us carefully and provided great guidance and were there for us every step of the way! We would recommend their services for adoption.
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29 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
This woman will quickly take your hard earned money only to have her staff submit failed paperwork full of misspellings, wrong dates, wrong names, etc. Your case will be incredibly delayed thanks to such irresponsible, unprofessional mistakes. The only reason she will contact you via text or phone is to remind you of your remaining balance and demands that you aren't late. She mixes personal life with professional life using it as an excuse to not meet in person EVER. Also, to this day she still uses Covid as a pretext not to meet in person, even though a Zoom call, FaceTime, WhatsApp, or any kind of video call would suffice. Within over a year of handling my case, to this day she still refuses to see me in person, and my case isn't resolved. I think that for $4000+, anyone else would have done a lot more for me, and things would not have been as horribly delayed thanks to her unprofessional behavior as well as that of her staff.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Mrs. hefa
She helped my brother in law stay in the United states where he beloved. Was always honest an went out on a limb. We really are forever indebted an geatful.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Alex flanigan
They were very responsive and easy to work with throughout our adoption process.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Katy kelly
We just had our finalization of our adoption. It was a smooth, very friendly and uplifting experience. They took care of everything, talked us through the process and now we are a family of THREE! Thank you!!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Daniel mette
Kirton McConkie made our adoption process very easy. They guided us carefully and provided great guidance and were there for us every step of the way! We would recommend their services for adoption.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Leif nelson
Did work for this firm and was promised payment. 18 months trying to collect and they ghosted me. Don't believe them if they promise you anything without getting an extensive contract.
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16 Sep, 2024 by S a
This firm is absolutely incompetent, in particular Mark Swan who has made multiple excuses as to why the work we hired him to do a year ago hasn't been completed. I would strongly recommend anyone considering hiring this firm to look elsewhere.
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09 May, 2024 by Migillicuty max
CORRUPT
Dictionary
Definitions from Oxford Languages · Learn
adjective
1. Having or showing a willingness to act dishonestly in return for money or personal gain.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
