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01 Nov, 2019 by Chad
I hired Mr. Roundtree after I was arrested for DWI. He was very professional, not judgemental, and helpful though one of the scariest times in my life. He got my DWI dropped to an Obstruction of Highway. Even after my case was put into deferred adjudication, I had an issue that I need Mr. Roundtree's help with. He helped me even though my case was done with. I would recommend Mr. Roundtree to anyone after a DWI arrest.
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05 Sep, 2019 by Gabriela
We were looking into an attorney that would be able to help with my husband's case considering he has a CDL and was pulled over for a DUI. We spoke with Mr. Roundtree and he explained the process to us and answered all the questions we had. He was very patient and he always made himself available to us. My husband was able to keep his CDL license and he was charged with Obstruction of a Highway instead of the DUI. I would recommend Mr. Roundtree to anyone who is looking for an attorney.
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02 Jul, 2019 by Juntree
I hired Mr. Roundtree to help out with a pretty scary issue. His calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and daughter. I am eternally grateful for his service and I hereby recommend Mr.Roundtree without reservation.
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.8
214 Reviews
14 Jan, 2025 by M whinzer
Probation granted . Thank God first. Mr Simmons second !
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21 Nov, 2024 by Sarah garcia
Case dismissed!!!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Joe burato
Law office of Cesar A. Montalvo successfully resolved a suspension on my CDL license. Mr. Montalvo and his staff were professional, diligent and resourceful. Would update during the whole process. His fees are fair and reasonable. Thank you for your help
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
El abogado Lara es muy buen abogado gano mi caso mucho mejor de lo que esperaba. Yo lo recomiendo muy buen abogado 👌
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06 Feb, 2025 by Damian guerrero
Mr. Lara is a great lawyer who helps people with their legal problems. He works hard to get the best results for his clients.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
Great service! He was very cooperative through the whole case, and was of great help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Rabin b
I can't say enough good things about Bryan Orihel!
Bryan recently represented me in a trespassing case where I was wrongfully arrested, and I’m thrilled to say he got it completely dismissed. From start to finish, Bryan was professional, attentive, and incredibly skilled.
He took the time to truly understand my case and kept me informed every step of the way. His knowledge of the law and attention to detail were beyond impressive. What really stood out to me was how much he genuinely cared about my situation and fought for the best possible outcome.
Thanks to Bryan, a stressful chapter in my life is behind me, and I couldn't be more grateful.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who’s not only great at what they do but also has your back 100%, Bryan Orihel is the one to call. Highly recommend!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Rain martinez
If you need an attorney I’d recommend Andrew Dominguez and Daphne Previti. They’re very professional, knowledgeable and get things done! Ive only ever had great experiences with this law firm. If I ever need another attorney this is where I will go!!!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Abraham romo
If I could give a 10-star review, I would. I was facing a very delicate case and wasn’t feeling confident with my previous attorney. I decided to contact Shawn Brown Law Firm and met with Attorney Daphne Pereti. Her experience and confidence immediately gave me peace of mind. Thanks to her efforts, my case was dismissed. I highly recommend this firm, but most importantly, Daphne. Her dedication shows and is the epitome of “Actions speak louder than words.” This was the best investment I’ve ever made. I cannot thank Daphne and Aaron or recommend them enough. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Linda mcginnis-weber
Mr. Gilbert helped me through a very stressful divorce and child custody battle 2023-2024. He's very straight forward, knows what he's talking about, and I truly appreciated that he fought hard for me and my children. He will DEFINITELY be my go-to law office for anything in the future. Thank you so much!!!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Mary robey
I can’t express enough gratitude for Matt and his team! Knowing what I was about to go through, I needed to do my research when it came to lawyers. I had countless phone and in person consultations before choosing someone to represent me. After all, I felt that the person I would choose had to be the most important thing I decided on.
In the end I chose Matt because our conversations were never generic, or textbook , they were genuine and honest. His recommended course of action truly seemed the most beneficial for me.
I could see he had my best interest at heart and that he was listening to me… and that he valued my thoughts.
I felt like I could trust him and I’m glad I went with my gut because we just wrapped up my case and it went in my favor!
Matt definitely exceeded my expectations and I’d refer him to anyone without hesitation. But, most importantly, Matt didn’t fail me, and at that time it’s what I needed the most.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa vanlanham
Going through a divorce is one of the most terrifying events I have had to go through because it is life altering for everyone involved. With all of the obstacles that I had to overcome, what kept my peace at mind was knowing that I could trust Matt with every single detail of my divorce. He was there for me with any concerns I had and truly helped provide the most beneficial insights. Although I never wish this event to happen to anyone I love and care about, I know I can wholeheartedly refer Matt to all of my dearest family and friends if they were to need him.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Michael lara
09 Dec, 2024 by Shasta billingsley
Mary was professional, attentive, and truly took the time to understand my situation. Their guidance and expertise made a significant difference in my case. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance!
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07 Dec, 2024 by Jose carrasquillo sr.
Very professional and understanding. I recommend her to anyone.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
El abogado Lara es muy buen abogado gano mi caso mucho mejor de lo que esperaba. Yo lo recomiendo muy buen abogado 👌
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06 Feb, 2025 by Damian guerrero
Mr. Lara is a great lawyer who helps people with their legal problems. He works hard to get the best results for his clients.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
Great service! He was very cooperative through the whole case, and was of great help.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
El abogado Lara es muy buen abogado gano mi caso mucho mejor de lo que esperaba. Yo lo recomiendo muy buen abogado 👌
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06 Feb, 2025 by Damian guerrero
Mr. Lara is a great lawyer who helps people with their legal problems. He works hard to get the best results for his clients.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
Great service! He was very cooperative through the whole case, and was of great help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Michael lara
09 Dec, 2024 by Shasta billingsley
Mary was professional, attentive, and truly took the time to understand my situation. Their guidance and expertise made a significant difference in my case. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance!
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07 Dec, 2024 by Jose carrasquillo sr.
Very professional and understanding. I recommend her to anyone.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Leonardo gutierrez
I am very comfortable and happy so far with the job Jim is doing to represent my center of my life which is my daughter and son.
I feel we’re almost towards the end of my battle. I’ve had this battle of custody for my children with the same issue protective orders filed against me and frivolous suets against me. Of course I had another attorney represent me. I had switch lawyers for the un satisfaction. I own a business and I know that working for yourself for your firm is equivalent for the amount of effort we do to win over customers. I have not sensed or had any vibes to feel the need to think twice of what Jim is doing. If I have any questions he helps me understand the law. I’m very pleased for now with the way he upholds the law for what’s true. . . More than words can say. Thanks men
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29 Jan, 2024 by Carol sanders
I highly recommend Cramp Law Firm. Military divorces are really specialized. There are special forms and filings and a lot of it is time sensitive. Jim Cramp is an expert in this. He took over my case from an attorney who kept making mistakes and costing me extra money. Once he started on it he got it all resolved quickly. I don't live in San Antonio, and he still took my case. Even if you are divorcing in another state Jim Cramp could probably give you excellent advice. Lastly, he was really responsive. I never had to wait long for answers. I always got a same day response.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Megan cash
After my initial divorce attorney made a huge mistake, Jim came in after, reopened the case and resolved the matter. He communicates effectively and efficiently and is great with the ins and outs of military divorce. Hire him from the start and make sure the job gets done right.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Amber poltl
Matt and his team are terrific. They pay great attention to detail and are fast in responding. Matt breaks down legal jargon and is very patient in explaining documents, legal rules and guidelines, and overall processes. He was dedicated to helping me set up my LLC and close on a new business venture quickly.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Sharon gutierrez
Was introduced to Matthew regarding a very specific legal question and was able to connect with him quickly and got my questions answered.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Natalie hall
I had a 15-minute Strategy Session with an attorney who offered his legal opinion about my new business idea. He was able to answer my questions and concerns and gave meaningful feedback.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Patricia
From when I was first charged he was patient with all my anxiety and answered all my calls. I was looking at 2 to 20 years as a habitual offender,he not only got the habitual dropped,but I was only on 2 years regular probation and a year later he went back to court and helped me get released from probation a year early. Has a good professional relationship with the state all around best attorney
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22 Mar, 2024 by Tanner
Mr. Davidson was first hired to represent me more than 10 years ago. Needless to say I was a troubled child going through the juvenile system. In almost every 8+ of my cases he found a dismissal with the exception of one (which was due to my own fault). Recently a case came up as an adult, and he moved swiftly in getting this dismissed. If you are in need of someone who has many years of experience and service, and cares about their clients then hiring Mr. Davidson is the way to go.
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17 Jan, 2024 by Chris
Mr Davidson is an outstanding lawyer a true definition of a lawyer that fights for you ,words cannot explain how Mr Davidson handled my case . Mr Davidson got down to the point and got the case dismissed rapidly I highly recommend Mr Davidson 100 percent,he will get the job done
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10 Feb, 2025 by Billy jarnagin
27 Jan, 2025 by Kelsey wolfe
The best law firm I have ever worked with. They were quick to respond, react, and answer all of my questions (and there were many!). Carla, Jared, and Shelby are THE BEST, hands down.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Moments2photos
23 Jan, 2025 by Cleofas tijerina
Muchas Gracias Agosto Law Firm por la ayuda que nos brindaron pues gracias a ustedes el tramite de migracion fue de lo mas rapido (7 meses) y especialmente a la Abogada Viviana y La Abogada Coral y una ves mas GRACIAS
Alicia y Raul Tijerina
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18 Jan, 2025 by Nicole salinas
05 Dec, 2024 by Jose alfaro
WIth Hector and his associates, i felt like family. They were always honest and just a phone call or email away to reassure me and tell me exactly how the case was going. The many years of experience resonated when they walked the halls and the courts of Bexar County, as everybody always greeted them like friends. There was never a rush to conclude my case as they slowly and manticulously worked to get me the best possible outcome. They never made any promises, but the outcome was better than I could have ever asked for. All businesses of San Antonio should be run like the offices of Hector Gonzales. My family truly thanks you!
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01 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Good Job !!!! Satisfecho Buen trabajo contentos buena Atencion Gracias muy Amable
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29 Apr, 2024 by Nicole chess
Great Great results he did what was expected would refer him to anyone in need
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24 Mar, 2021 by Greg
Mr. Aldape worked very diligently and professionally to get the results that exceeded my expectations. His attention to detail and knowledge of the laws are unsurpassed. I would highly recommend him.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Adrian
If you want an excellent attorney who will fight for you, then you need to hire Mr. Parra with the Parra Law Firm. He and his staff are super helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable! I hired Mr. Parra to represent me in a car accident case. I was hit by another driver and suffered all sort of injuries!Mr. Parra fought for me every step of the way and got me way more than I could imagine.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Antonia
I have the privilege of having Mr Rosendo Farra lll. Represent me and Court for the will he did an excellent job always kept me informed he always ensure me that everything will be okay if anybody need a legal assistan service I highly recommend Rosendo parra lll sincerely very satisfied customer
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28 Mar, 2022 by James
I had a multi-disciplinary legal matter last year. Although the allegations were without merit I was afraid of the potential consequences for myself and my family. Mr. Parra met with me and was able to calm some of those fears. He immediately went to work on my case and Within days he was getting results. My legal problems were completely resolved in a much shorter time than I expected with the best possible outcome and the price was reasonable. I’ve recommended several clients to Mr. Parra who have received the same care and treatment with similar results. The Parra Law Firm is now the only Law firm I recommend for San Antonio and surrounding areas.
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08 Mar, 2019 by Edward
AWESOME attorney! Can't get any better than this guy! He helped me get custody of my boys and helped me with the whole process through CPS and lots more. If you are looking for a Family Attorney do not look any further. I have recommended two others and he did not disappoint either of them.
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30 May, 2012 by Nereida
He is by far the best attorney I will ever know, He is kind gentle and aggressive when he defends your home .
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23 Jan, 2025 by Cleofas tijerina
Muchas Gracias Agosto Law Firm por la ayuda que nos brindaron pues gracias a ustedes el tramite de migracion fue de lo mas rapido (7 meses) y especialmente a la Abogada Viviana y La Abogada Coral y una ves mas GRACIAS
Alicia y Raul Tijerina
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18 Jan, 2025 by Nicole salinas
05 Dec, 2024 by Jose alfaro
WIth Hector and his associates, i felt like family. They were always honest and just a phone call or email away to reassure me and tell me exactly how the case was going. The many years of experience resonated when they walked the halls and the courts of Bexar County, as everybody always greeted them like friends. There was never a rush to conclude my case as they slowly and manticulously worked to get me the best possible outcome. They never made any promises, but the outcome was better than I could have ever asked for. All businesses of San Antonio should be run like the offices of Hector Gonzales. My family truly thanks you!
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17 Oct, 2024 by J. unger
I am just going to say - Derek has been there through both the thick and the thin. I wouldn’t be where I am at today if it weren’t for him.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Jason darr
I would like to say, I was referred to Emmons law firm, from a family friend . Mr. Emmons, took my case on for a family violence case . He was helpful from the very beginning before I hired him , he was honest and gave me plenty of options to think about . I just want to say I'm more than pleased with how my case turned out . I honestly feel Mr. Derek Emmons is a good family man and some one I'm very grateful for having on my side . I truly believe with conversations and his preparedness and the way he handled my situation I couldn't have found any one any better. I just want to say thank you for helping me . Some of the things he shared from his personal life experiences helped me and really made me look at things differently . I highly recommend Emmons law firm, to any one in need of a excellent legal representation.
Thank you .
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09 Jul, 2024 by Richard mcgraw
Mr. Emmons is a great attorney, he is understanding, compassionate and cares for his clients. he assisted me in getting a mistake resolved from a relationship that had gone bad, he had the case placed on Pre trial diversion.
I completed the program and the case was expunged.
I am forever grateful to him. he was a saving grace when I thought my future was over.
currently getting my Graduate degree because of his legal assistance.
if you need an attorney select him.
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21 Feb, 2025 by Melonie thornton
11 Feb, 2025 by Markus potter
Brad Thorton as my defense attorney went out of his way to explain my case to me and what to expect. He made sure to represent me with his best work and even had my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Michel
Brad Thornton is a very knowledgable lawyer that knows his way around the syatem. He is patient and will take his time to to make sure you understand the process. My family member received justice with his help!
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01 Feb, 2025 by Julio lara
29 Jan, 2025 by Esmeralda lara
UN EXCELENTE ABOGADO MEJOR DICHO DE LOS MEJORES, MUCHISIMAS GRACIAS POR TODO DIOS LO BENIGA ❤️
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27 Jan, 2025 by Melissa arroyo
El abogado Miguel Soto Pastrama, es excelente ser humano y abogado. Estoy muy agradecida por su asesoramiento y su amabilidad para explícame cada paso que debo realizar. Dios le bendiga y siga prosperando cada día más. Personas como el, necesitamos en este país.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Caesar villegas
Great law firm!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Stephen malven
Carolos Gonzales is the best go to for injury attorney. Carolina is amazing she has been in contact with me threw the whole process from setting me up with dr appts to the end with negotiating with the insurance company fighting for me the whole way. Vicky at the front desk is also welcoming and great to see when i come in to the office. I used wronged in texas the past 2 years. Highley recommend
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21 Jun, 2024 by Yesenia alfaro
I was in a car accident when I called my ex boss she referred me to her son the lawyer thank u for taking my case
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21 Feb, 2025 by Melonie thornton
11 Feb, 2025 by Markus potter
Brad Thorton as my defense attorney went out of his way to explain my case to me and what to expect. He made sure to represent me with his best work and even had my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Michel
Brad Thornton is a very knowledgable lawyer that knows his way around the syatem. He is patient and will take his time to to make sure you understand the process. My family member received justice with his help!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Citlalli agredano
Keith is a very hopeful lawyer. He is very knowledgeable and makes you feel safe and represented in any case. He is very professional and willing to answer your questions in a polite manner.Not only that, but he is honest and has strong ethics!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Joanna morales
Bradley Bellows was a wonderful, informative, and strong handed lawyer during my divorce matters. He was thorough, patient, strategic, and logical which can be hard in matters where emotions are high. Not only was I navigating a divorce case but also a criminal case against my ex husband and with Mr.Bellows advocacy and agency I was able to find a balance for my child’s wellbeing while also respecting my own autonomy in the matter. I will continue to refer him to friends and family alike looking for someone who is trustworthy,
level headed and an advocate for sound minded law. Thank you for everything you did for my family! Forever grateful.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Greg mabry
Compassionate, knowledgeable, and professional! You want him in your corner.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Mom g
His One of the Best of Attorneys 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
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20 Jul, 2024 by Teddy smith
21 Jun, 2024 by Deborah lund
18 Oct, 2024 by Haley bossart
Working with Curtis at Martin & Cukjati, LLP was an incredible experience. From the moment we began, I felt truly heard and understood. Curtis took the time to listen to my concerns and provided guidance that really put my mind at ease. The level of trust I developed throughout the process was remarkable, and it genuinely alleviated my stress. I can't thank Curtis enough for his professionalism and support. Highly recommend!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Clayton tomlin
After such a devastating injury on the job, I was at a loss of how to proceed. After consulting and working with Jessica,Trey and Curtis my understanding of my situation and how to proceed was greatly appreciated. I am so thankful that they worked diligently to resolve this matter in as timely a manner as possible. My family is so very grateful for their expertise and efforts in dealing with such a challenging time in my life.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Amanda rodriguez
Kurt and his daughter Isabella were so nice and did so much for my husband and I. I contacted him on the weekend and left a message and he quickly called me back and worked on my case right away. We were hit by a hit and run and Kurt and his team were able to figure out by police reports who actually hit us, contacted the women's insurance, and was able to get us taken care of. We were put in such a bind and now we have been able to get ourselves out of debt and get right again. My husband is still awaiting he's settlement but it hasn't been long whatsoever. I highly recommend this atty. He's daughter Isabella worked so hard on my case and communicated so so well I couldn't believe it. She is truly amazing
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20 Sep, 2019 by Valerie
Amazing, Awesome, Seasoned, Professional, Highly Skilled and Caring. That’s what Don Flanary and his law firm associates are and more. I found the Flanary Law Firm while searching for legal help for my son. At the time my family was distraught and in distress. Don and Amanda were calm, helpful and hopeful. They immediately had a plan of action, they were READY to go to battle and that was just after an initial meeting! Their positive and fighting energy was so amazing and inspiring and exactly what we needed. It was what my son needed. Right after we retained Don, he and Amanda took IMMEDIATE action to right a wrong. They stayed on top of everything and was aggressive in their defense of my son. They accomplished in less than a year what we so desperately needed for our son, a DISMISSAL! We already had over a year in this unfortunate ordeal, living in unrest, stress and worry. Don and Amanda took notice and took immediate action! Their dedication, expert knowledge of the law, the legal system and the courts is a why our son and our family currently have PEACE of mind. Go with Flanary Law Firm! It was one of THE BEST decision we’ve ever had to make for a dire and daunting situation. We are ever so grateful and blessed to have had these folks placed in our lives. So very and eternally grateful!!
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14 May, 2018 by Mark
Without going into too much detail about what I was being accused of, my case was a life changing one. I was being accused of one of the worst things human being can be accused of. I did a ton of research on top attorneys in San Antonio and what they’re success rates were. I interviewed about 6 attorneys and Don was the last one that I interviewed. One of the first things that I noticed about Don was his passion and energy for what he does. Within a few minutes he was asking questions that nobody else had asked me, he immediately dove into the details and began to tear it apart. WOW! I knew immediately that he was the one. Don is on a different level compared to all the other attorneys I had spoken with. He’s one of those attorneys that’s not scared to go to trial and he tells it exactly how it is. One of the best ways to visualize how I felt about Don was like having a Pit bull on my side. He was relentless with the details and the facts of this case and he never let me down. He brought in all the right people that included private detectives, experts and even other attorneys for advice. I’ve never met anyone like Don and I truly feel in my heart that I’d be sitting in prison right now if it wasn’t for him.
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30 Oct, 2016 by Rose
Don is a first rate lawyer and knows the law. I would recommend him in a heart beat.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
El abogado Lara es muy buen abogado gano mi caso mucho mejor de lo que esperaba. Yo lo recomiendo muy buen abogado 👌
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06 Feb, 2025 by Damian guerrero
Mr. Lara is a great lawyer who helps people with their legal problems. He works hard to get the best results for his clients.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Roberto guerrero
Great service! He was very cooperative through the whole case, and was of great help.
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13 Jun, 2022 by Jennifer anthony
14 Apr, 2022 by Jm
I was thoroughly impressed on the legal knowledge Ms. Chelkowski displayed regarding my case and insight she brought to help get a positive dismissal on my behalf. Her staff is openly available and responsive to requests and messages. Ms. Chelkowski was professional, and she obtained the decision that we had discussed during the initial consultation. Her services are reasonably affordable, and she delivered positive results. I am forever grateful.
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10 Dec, 2021 by Dee bagesse
Absolutely the best attorney in the business.
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.8
33 Reviews
10 Nov, 2024 by Richard garcia
Outstanding!! Job by Adam Flores knocking my case out of the park. Best price and payment plans are unmatched for a top quality Criminal Lawyer. Adam made what I thought would be some tough times feel like a walk in the park. I spent LESS then a total of one hour in the court room and had a 100% Dismissal of ALL charges!! Thank You!! Attorney Adam Flores for your hard work and dedication!!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Jessenia mendez choc
Great Attorney. Charge a reasonable price and answer your phone calls when you call him.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Diego martinez
This is the greatest attorney ever, he fought, fought, fought, and got my case dismissed, helped me with every single question and concern I had and went out of his way many times to help me out, highly recommend to anyone who’s looking for a attorney.
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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.
