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18 Apr, 2018 by Ron r
Marisa Ayon is an extremely competent attorney who I have consulted with in the courthouse.
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23 May, 2015 by Rachel
Ms. Ayon worked quickly and diligently on my case. She maintained constant communication with me. As a result of her efforts, my case was dismissed. I highly recommend this attorney.
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03 Aug, 2015 by Miranda
Jan is an amazing lawyer. She treats your case as number one priority. She helped me get my case dropped and I was very pleased. The effort and understanding was amazing. She treats you like your family. I love that she cares for you and your family.
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17 Jul, 2015 by S.j.
Used this attorney team for probating an estate and was very pleased.
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09 Nov, 2020 by Alecia
Orlando has proven to be a very communicative attorney of law. Not only do I feel that his moral standards and code are up to par but that he is alway prepared and up to date on everything and keeps his clients in the loop. He has represented me perfectly and I know my case is in great hands. I would recommend Orlando to anyone who needs a family law attorney in Texas.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Virginia
When In doubt go with Wendy she stuck it out with me for 2 long dreadful years and never gave up on me always put her best in for me and never stopped believing in me she got my two cases dismissed one being a felony and a misdemeanor
I will and am referring her to everyone I know you will not regret it she’s the best the best the best she works very hard at her job and is dedicated determined motivated so if I could give her more then 5 stars I would . Thank you so much for everything Wendy you were a huge life saver
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16 May, 2017 by Layce
Mr Gomez has been kind enough to take his time to consult with me on the telephone regarding my son's case. This man is an angel and he soothed my mind and heart.
Please consider hiring him..... Victor is a WINNER!!
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19 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
DA was wanting to give my husband prison time and Tina got him free with just probation instead of 7 yrs prison time...WOW she is the best, if we had any questions, she was there to answer, if not she would make sure to calls us back and let us know what was going on. Nice lady if I may add...
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04 Apr, 2024 by Yaisel gastamiza labrada
12 May, 2014 by Monica
He was excellent at meeting all my needs and answering all my questions as far as my divorce .He was very patient knowledgeable and very professional.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Jason
If you’re looking for an attorney who both knows the law and knows how to speak with a client Mr. Valicek should be on the top of your list. He was recommended by another lawyer which says a lot.
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07 Feb, 2011 by Roi
He is knowledgeable. Gets the work done. Highly recommended. Roi Garcia
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07 Dec, 2016 by Andy
Robert was a professional and handled my case perfectly and
timely. He communicates well with client and is very knowledgeable.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Tracy
Ray Zapata has been hired by me on several occasions from custody issues to divorce/family law. He is always available for meetings/consultations and gets things taken of quick and easily (on our end). I won't use anyone else and I highly recommend his practice if you need a family attorney. I have known him for 10 years and appreciate all his help and expertise over the years.
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18 Aug, 2015 by Nicolas
Mr. Strauch is a powerhouse! He gets it done and he is worth every penny! I was so pleased with his performance. If you want positive results, he is the one!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Yaisel gastamiza labrada
16 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I finally found a lawyer who will listen to my side of the story without interrupting all the time. Mr. Montgomery doesn't look down on you. He's kind and patient, and he is certified by the state bar to be expert in criminal law.
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03 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
We found Mr Barretto to be very helpful. He explained everything that was happening, what was to happen and what probably would happen. He was referred to us by very close family friends who also worked with him and we have been very satisfied.
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09 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Fortunately and unfortunately in the criminal law setting (esp San Antonio) it's all about who you know. Mr. Garcia (Ed) did a fantastic feet for me. He came in on time off to go over the cold hard facts. He is a long-time lawyer with experience on his side. Mr. Garcia has done a fine job of representation and it shows in the result. Mr. Garcia does a lot of his work in the background which may come off as "absent" but it's really in the works. When you consider a lawyer it's important for them to talk at your level of comprehension and give you support.
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23 Aug, 2021 by Dakota ray perrin
Yo this attorney was appointed to Me by The Courts I was being charged with robbery and possession and got both charges dismissed and under 90 days, the man was his business
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26 Nov, 2014 by Cody
Mr. Morin has been a great lawyer for me, he represented me after I was arrested and got me a pretty easy sentence. Kept me informed of what I needed to do and what was going on in the court process. Would certainly recommend .
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08 Jul, 2015 by Linda
Ms. Dominguez represented me on a consumer dispute. She was very prepared and did her research for my case. She is very attentive to my case and very professional. I would hire her to do cases for me and recommend her to others for the future.
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26 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
She is the best Lawyer that Heard and Smith has. She knows the right questions to ask and won my case for me.
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27 May, 2015 by Vern
Mr. Elliot has provided outstanding personal and business legal advice for me for several years. He advised me on setting up a business partnership, a trust, and wrote my will. He also advised me on a lawsuit involving my Mother which was extremely helpful in helping me monitor the case from several hundred miles away and expedited the gathering of evidence and witnesses. His help resulted in a favorable decision for my elderly Mother and the awarding of a judgement in her favor. His experience as a prosecuter in crimes against the elderly was most reassuring. He has my highest recommendation as a personal lawyer for either civil or criminal cases.
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05 Jul, 2020 by Lance
I just want to thank Mrs. Kelly McGinnis for helping me in my court case!
She has AMAZING attention to detail and professionalism as well her overall knowledge on how the court system works. She stayed in contact with both me and my family and was able to get my case dismissed! She is pound for pound one of the BEST criminal defense attorneys in Texas!!
I am going to give her some 5-STAR reviews on ANY and ALL websites that advertise for her firm.
She has done a SPECTACULAR job and I want her to be recognized for it!!
THANK YOU KELLY!
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03 Feb, 2023 by Marlena
I met Mark in the early moments of my first adult crisis. It was 2007. My family immediately took me to long-time family/business attorney for guidance. Mark was a new lawyer & assisting my family's lawyer, who introduced him as his best associate. My crisis did last for over 3 years with no permanent orders - that was torture, but the difference: was that I overcame those years & the custody issues peacefully. I've learned in the midst of my worlds colliding, how could I have anticipated ALL the aftermath of healing & moving on? The financial trauma. And (just) The Trauma! ? Alone, one can expect to kiss sanity & a successful outcome g'bye. At the end of the day, A good attorney will get you through the court part. GREAT COUNSEL, however, will get you through the LIFE part too. That is why, to this day, I look to Mark consistantly. I've not been able to place valuation for wisdom gained by working with him. The value details go above contractual, fiduciary obligations. It's very much about execution - the whole truth - & as long as that's been established, I know my part: commit to listen & follow through with recommendations. I can hang my hat on that. For another 15 years. I know my future & my peace of mind are worth more than being recognized as a billable hour. I estimate You are too! if you are looking for great legal counsel.
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07 Dec, 2016 by M.sarli
Genaro Cortez was assigned to my husbands case. He was the third and last assigned attorney. Genaro even though assigned to our case went above and beyond what I would have ever expected. Our first assigned attorney had a good reputation as the top attorney. Well we wasted time in hopes that he would live up to that name. We wasted over a year with no progress, postponing our case every two months, lost evidence and he would rarely respond to phone calls, Our second attorney with 40yrs of experience plainly admitted he did not believe my husband and asked to be removed from the case. This was a big case. When Genaro was assigned to our case he hit the ground running. Immediately requesting motions, requesting evidence, refusing further court date postponements, and defending our rights in every possible way. Most importantly, he believed our version of events and he did a great job representing our case. I truly appreciate that even though he was assigned to our case he fought this case in every possible way, always kept us informed, and always communicated through text, emails, phone. I highly recommend him if you need someone that will defend you in every possible way. After reviewing many attorneys I do believe he is the best in Bexar county.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Carlos and Derek were very professional and aggressive throughout my insurance dispute. I would recommend them for any legal dispute.
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23 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Gabe Quintanilla is the kind of attorney you're proud to show up with in court. He is well-respected and knows his stuff. He truly goes the extra mile for his clients and cares about the people involved, as well as the verdict. He's the kind of lawyer that other lawyers admire, and that's saying alot.
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15 Jan, 2017 by Barbara
This lawyer helped me through the most painful time in my life. He did an amazing job in my family case. I always felt that my needs were met and he invested passionately in my case. He was very aggressive and got me the results that I wanted. He never cared to make it negotiable but to fight for the best interest of my child. Thank you Mr. Cortez.
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18 Apr, 2018 by Werner
Robert is a kind and very respectful helpful attorney. I was very Blessed to have had him represent me in what could have been a very bad situation.
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14 May, 2011 by Jo ann
Mr Siller, is an excellent attorney. He always kept me inform about my case. He would set a side what ever he was working on, gave me the t his divided attention. He would keep his appointments open for me when I need to speak with him. His a wonderful attorney . I would recommend him for his execellent job. I would not trade for no other attorney. His the best!
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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.
