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08 Jul, 2024 by Melissa miller
Great place to go if you're looking for help. They got some of my charges dismissed and some of my charges reduced. I am very happy with the outcome this firm has gotten on my case!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jake hahn
I found the workers very sympathetic and helpful. I had a very efficient conversation on the phone and I got the help I needed for my DUI. I would 100% recommend to anyone that needs help with a DUI in the Santa Clara area.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Gertie burchett
Unfortunately I was in need of a criminal defense attorney for reasons I don't wanna disclose on the internet, but I'm very happy with my decision to use H Law Group. They are amazing and I couldn't have have made a better choice.
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30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Scotty is one of the best attorneys I have come across. Extremely humble, genuine and has attention to detail which is extremely important. He and his team handled couple of cases for me about 10 years back. So this review was long coming. He and his team will go to farthest end to make sure no stone remains unturned. He never forget his clients and always has your back even when the case is closed. I always look back to my younger self when I had no legal guidance , Scotty was the one who not only best represented me but also give the best advise and guidance on the legal matters. His methodic and grounded approach is what makes him to me, the best defense attorney
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07 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Scotty advised me on my case. He clearly laid out my options and scenarios and provided me with the necessary information to proceed. He's friendly and he knows what he's doing - would definitely recommend.
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13 Nov, 2016 by Joseph
I was referred to him by an acquaintance after I was charged with a DUI. He took the edge of a painful process, and with the breathing room this provided was able to get back on track and get on with my life. I'm no longer in the same area as him, but I would definitely recommend him to anyone in a similar situation if I were.
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02 Sep, 2023 by Mustafah walai
George is truly an outstanding lawyer! It's difficult to express just how valuable his expertise and support have been. When you find yourself in challenging situations, having someone like George in your corner is a tremendous asset. I wholeheartedly endorse his services.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Ayaz mudarris
amazing !!! lightning fast and sharp like a fright train .
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04 Aug, 2023 by Rui cordeiro
Number one attorney. He was very polite very knowledgeable. I researched Mr Kasolas seasoned attorney with years of experience and he’s served on the bench he’s very familiar with the courts. I’m
More then happy and thank you for helping me with my case.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Krista conte
Lori and her team are responsive, thoughtful and sensitive. They helped me through a tough time and also gave me great counsel along the way. I would highly recommend the Costanzo Law Firm.
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24 Aug, 2024 by T williams
Great Firm, very corresponding and versatile to their clients needs. Agenda and goal oriented in seeking justice.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Raquel riopel
26 Apr, 2024 by Aaron g
I deeply regret my decision to hire this law firm to represent me in court, as they failed to fulfill their duties. Initially, they demanded a retainer fee of $5,000, which they quickly depleted within a month without any tangible progress. To make matters worse, they then requested additional funds. It took them two weeks after our initial meeting to even file the necessary documents stating that they were my attorneys, and even that was the extent of their efforts in court. If it were possible, I would rate this firm with negative scores. I strongly advise against wasting your time with them, as all the positive reviews are deceitful. This firm should be permanently closed down and prohibited from assisting anyone. I simply needed one task accomplished for my divorce, but instead, they consumed all the retainer fees by excessively communicating through emails and phone calls, which proved to be fruitless. I find myself in the exact same situation as when I first started, having wasted an entire month that I can never retrieve.
It is crucial to seek out genuine lawyers rather than unscrupulous individuals.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Gabby suthakar
27 Sep, 2023 by Erik mickelson
Friendly staff, hard-working and diligent attorneys
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09 Sep, 2024 by Krista conte
Lori and her team are responsive, thoughtful and sensitive. They helped me through a tough time and also gave me great counsel along the way. I would highly recommend the Costanzo Law Firm.
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24 Aug, 2024 by T williams
Great Firm, very corresponding and versatile to their clients needs. Agenda and goal oriented in seeking justice.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Raquel riopel
04 Oct, 2022 by Mike
I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. Jacklyn was very responsive and diligent in all matters concerning my case. She was extremely knowledgeable and effective in battling with the local authorities. She was comforting but direct. Everyone deserves a lawyer like this on their side.
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29 Aug, 2022 by Hugh
My girlfriend has used Jacklyn for a number of diverse matters. she is thorough, thoughtful, available, extensively knowledgable and experienced in an array of matters. Her Followthrough and communication are excellent. Thoroughly recommended.
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27 May, 2022 by Jeanne
I was referred to Jacklyn Bentley from the Bar Association. I was injured in a car accident. The defendant was 100% at fault. My car was totaled and my T11 injured. Geico refused to believe I was hurt. My first attorney filed the law suite because Geico would not settle. Unfortunately, he got ill and had to drop off. The second attorney had a heart attack and had to drop off on advice of his doctor. I spent two years trying to find an attorney while Geico beat me up. I contacted many attorneys. They all turned me down, as two attorneys had already been on the case. I went to the bar association for help. They sent me four attorneys to contact for a free consultation. Jacklyn was one of the attorneys. The case was complex. She was honest that her case load was such that she could not take the case but gave me several names to contact and encouraged me not to give up. She was extremely helpful and responsive to all of my questions. All the other referrals said no and left it at that. However,Jacklyn provided a lot of information about the legal process and gave me names of attorneys to try. She then went one step further and reached out to see how I was doing. She is more than a good attorney she is a compassionate caring human being. In the future if I need an attorney, I would not hesitate to contact Jacklyn.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Mel cross
I called the Legal Aid advice line to speak to an attorney, and unfortunately, Amelia returned my call. Amelia is disgusting and rude. She antagonize me during the phone call, making ridiculous snarky comments. I would not recommend that anyone interact with her. Unfortunately, Legal Aid has someone so unprofessional working for them. SMH
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05 Sep, 2024 by Lucia trino
Had to call several times. They have a message option however they won't return calls on messages which just intensities thre stressful situation.
So before you call and are on hold for almost 3 hours, yes 3 hours, please note they will not help anyone unless you're being evicted. Yep, enough their website lists many other subjects.
Oh and lily is in desperate need of customer service training courses.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Carla hull
Food is always good
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17 Sep, 2024 by Mel cross
I called the Legal Aid advice line to speak to an attorney, and unfortunately, Amelia returned my call. Amelia is disgusting and rude. She antagonize me during the phone call, making ridiculous snarky comments. I would not recommend that anyone interact with her. Unfortunately, Legal Aid has someone so unprofessional working for them. SMH
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05 Sep, 2024 by Lucia trino
Had to call several times. They have a message option however they won't return calls on messages which just intensities thre stressful situation.
So before you call and are on hold for almost 3 hours, yes 3 hours, please note they will not help anyone unless you're being evicted. Yep, enough their website lists many other subjects.
Oh and lily is in desperate need of customer service training courses.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Carla hull
Food is always good
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17 Feb, 2017 by Ayman badr
We called Mr. Mayfield for an important and urgent matter that needed immediate attention. You can tell he's an attorney who makes himself available without asking too many questions first. I was able to speak to him on first call and he spent over 20 minutes covering all the issues and possibilities of the situation. We followed his sound advice and everything went well. I called him back to thank him and he offered to help further if/when necessary. His conversations are smooth and pleasurable without any rush or complication. Thank you Mr. Mayfield
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08 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Just very expensive and bad handling of the case. I am not a citizen and I was accused of DV. I came to know of Mr Mayfield from an immigration lawyer. In the very first meeting, when we did not have the police report or any evidence I was told straight that I will have to plead guilty and that I will certainly lose the trial no matter what. There was hardly any evidence the prosecution had against me. I told him multiple times that I wanted to go to trial and that I understand the consequences of losing the trial. I was told some very rude things that being from a country in Asia where there was news of atrocities against women recently, I looked like someone who would do bad things to a woman! That was very sad to hear from my own lawyer. Eventually, as I did not want to be with my wife, he kept trying to convince me to hire an immigration lawyer and a divorce lawyer to file for divorce. I did not fall into that at all. His law firm does civil divorce cases too. I was even sent a mail by him that my wish of going to trial would have grave consequences and I could end up in jail for years! Even though it was a misdemeanor and not even a felony. When I talked to other lawyers, no one believed me that he would have written such a mail. I actually showed the mail to them. Eventually, after running into an enormous bill of 10K usd and still him not willing to go to trial, I decided to move on to a different attorney who handled my case really well and was all prepared to go to trial. Eventually, my case got dismissed on the day of the trial. All in all, I ended up losing lots of money and got bad legal advice. I have 100% confidence that his knowledge of the law is excellent but to this day I do not understand what was his attitude towards my case!
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31 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
During his handling of my case, he was most concerned about justice and not about fees. He was extremely knowledgeable about the most arcane procedural details and local court customs and practices. He was persuasive in court. He cared.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Tiffany kilpatrick-winter
07 Jun, 2023 by Hoa .l
perfect 4 vip who just wanna sign the papers, the best lawyers will take care of everything!
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11 Mar, 2021 by Tony y
Todd is amazing. I won't get into details about this case but I will.say that you will not find a better attorney to represent you in your civil matters than Todd
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13 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I was referred by a friend of mine to Mr. Mezzetti for traffic matters that I have encountered. Mr. Mezzetti took his time and explained to me all what I need to go throughthe process. I decided to hire him to take care of my tickets. Great results. I am very happy to have hired him. I would definitely recommend him to everyone else.
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01 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
An unfortunate event happened with my son recently and a friend recommended me to Mr. Mezzetti's office. My son and I had a consultation with him and I was very impressed with not only his expertise and professionalism, yet he made quite an impression on my son. The result of the case was much better than I imagined it to be, and as a result of this ordeal, my son has learned a valuable lesson. Thank you Mr. Mezzetti and your staff for being there for us.
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26 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
I had a very simple criminal matter that needed rectifying. After months of empty promises, I am back at square one. Very unreliable team of attorney's who promise alot and deliver nothing - their responsiveness was close to non-existent.
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13 Aug, 2018 by Rick
Mr. Pointer, was a wonderful lawyer and was there for me in court. I believe in him and his abilities. Came highly recommended.
Much thanks to Mr. Pointer
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22 Sep, 2016 by Keith forster
Richard is not only a experienced Trial Attorney but also a man that has a heart of gold! Rich represented my wife in a case that had so much stinch of police corruption, and got much truth during the Preliminary Hearing by cross examining the witnesses. He had prepared many questions and delivered them so elequently yet brought out the truth and lies of the alleged Victim. Having been in law enforcement for over 28 years myself and seeing many Attornies who sell their clients down the stream, it was a breath of fresh air to have an attorney who really cares about unraveling the truth in a "deal making" DA office. Richard completely changed the course of the prosecution and drastically changed the case for my wife and 3 year old baby, who would have not seen his mother for years if Rich did not intervene for simply the truth! Thank you Richard! What you did for my family will always be remembered. You saved a wife, mother and little child from wrongful prosecution and many years of seperation! God bless you!
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06 May, 2011 by Adam
Stay away from John Hinkle and Richard Pointer, this law firm will charge you an arm and a leg and you will get screwed HARD in the end. First of all he will fee you for everything on top of the $15K for hiring him. He is hard to get in contact with, I feel like when I see him he just doesn't give a flying crap about you or your case and doesn't even shake your hand. One time I went to court and he was never there! I had to go up to the judge and say "my lawyer isn't here to represent me". He lost my motion to dismiss, he is slow, old, and will confuse you while on the stand. look for someone else.
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12 May, 2023 by Tiago
Enrique helped me with my citizenship and wow the process was fast and hustled free
I’m so glad he got recommended to me and he was the nicest friendly person I’ve ever met
He is definitely recommended
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20 Aug, 2021 by Nathan
Enrique was very rude and condescending when I dealt with him. Arrogant. Definitely wouldn't recommend him
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24 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
I had Enrique Defend me in my case which was ongoing for two years.
He had the best knowledge and defending in criminal and Immigration.
I am truly Thankful to Enrique for what he has done in defending me in my case.
I would reccomend Enrique to anybody who is looking for a Great Lawyer who can fight for you.
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07 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Unbelievable, they charged me but in spite of the reminder they did not show up to defend me on a due date. As a result, a court trial was held in my and my representative absence and I was found guilty.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Jny
Rodney is right person to hire to help you out of traffic trouble. I had a traffic ticket in Santa Cruz, and I live outside California. Rodney took off the job and got the ticket dismissed. Also his assistant Emiliano is very professional and patient in consulting. Very grateful to them!
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12 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I was referred by another law office to Mayr, the other office did not practice law in Santa Cruz. After dealing Rodney doesn't seem like he does either. His assistant seemed to do most of work for my traffic case. I have no idea what credentials his assistant has. After 4 months later nothing was done, and no refund was given
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24 Aug, 2018 by Sali
He is the best, best, BEST!!!
You can forget about the typical stereotype everyone has of lawyers as Michael is the living exception of what we all think of when we hear the word attorney.
He is knowledgeable, professional, humanly kind and is accurate on his judgement.
He is my go to attorney and I highly recommend Michael!
His office staff is a perfect continuity of who he is and what he represents: justice and value!
Thank you Michael for making a difference daily!
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10 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Michael is a horrible lawyer to handle the case, He is very aggressive and make you fight hard so that he made the easy case more complicated. It does not help solve the problem but add more complication. Ending up to let you pay more to him and take more longer time to settle. He has no ethic to help people. Not recommend him!!
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28 Aug, 2017 by Henry v
Michael Chinh VU.S.A Law Offices is a knowledgeable lawyer who is very expert in his field. He has been helping me out with my divorce and custody case. He knows the family law so well, given 20 plus years experience, you will not be disappointed if you hire him to represents you. Again, my case isn't over and I am still working with him. He is an excellent lawyer who knows how to deal with any family law related issues if you looking fair and peace full for husband and wife can be a best friend after divorce and responsibility custody takes care of your Childs. Big thanks to Michael Chinh Vu. I found him through referral. I heard that he beat one of the most famous divorce lawyers in Asian community. However, Michael Chinh Vu take time and mannerly listening figured that I was going through difficult time divorce case going to default by spouse. He always came down patient stand with you in a tricky world with off side lawyer; it's very difficult to find a good, ethical and nice lawyer like Vu. (I recommendation if you are Vietnamese not sure the rights Lawyer trust please come and see Lawyer: Michael Chinh Vu)
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10 Nov, 2023 by Tiffany kilpatrick-winter
07 Jun, 2023 by Hoa .l
perfect 4 vip who just wanna sign the papers, the best lawyers will take care of everything!
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11 Mar, 2021 by Tony y
Todd is amazing. I won't get into details about this case but I will.say that you will not find a better attorney to represent you in your civil matters than Todd
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04 Feb, 2014 by Tm
Dennis represented me for my son's custody and he did the best for us. Because of him I got my son's custody. Also he didn't charge me for all the hours he was in the court. So far he is the best attorney I ever found.
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22 Dec, 2012 by Vs
I have hired Dennis for several years now (off and on) with an exhusband who is a prick. Dennis listened to my questions and concerns. He gave me honest (sometimes things we don't want to hear) answers and solutions to my problems. He was upfront about costs and told me what to do to cut them. Felicia had to show up at one of the court motions for Dennis and she did an excellent job - considering I had never spoken with her prior to seeing her in court. I was impressed with her. As far as their paralegal she is wonderful. Again, she listened to me and gave me honest, upfront answers. They always did what I wanted to do. I have recommended numerous friends and all have been happy. Other reviewers complain about the cost, however, I have found that they are all about the same. So for me, I want MY attorney to be able to stand up to my prick of an exhusband, not cower to him and help him out ---as my prior attorney did.
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07 Sep, 2011 by Z
Worst lawyer I have hired in my lifetime, arrogant, he was a cope and has air of superiority his office is all a make up for a inept lawyer, It has been reported several times to the board of lawyers, I had filed a complain as well, research before hiring him
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19 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to her free consultation and was blown away by all the information she gave me so I decided to hire her with no doubt that she will do a great job. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I've handed her all the related documents and summarized my case so she can be fully prepared but I was shocked how she came in without reading / learning about my case.
I was very nervous at the hearing so I listened to her advice but all she did was to take the easy way out for her, ignoring the best interest in me. It seemed like she didn't wanna put effort in protecting me or fighting for my benefit at all. Probably because she wasn't prepare at all. Even the opponent party said, " You should speak up, that's what you are here for "
She came unprepared, her legal knowledge is very limited and she made many mistakes. I was shocked when I read the legal document she created after the court. I needed to point out many of her mistakes. My case included simple calculations and she has an MBA but couldn't get the easiest math correct. I wish I never hired her.
I told my friend who's going through her divorce now that I regret hiring her then she happened to know her. She told me that Lucy's response on avvo was so fast, she was thinking of hiring her too but her emails were not responding to the questions she asked so she ended up not hiring her.
I checked her profile prior to hiring and felt I was very mislead of the " Rising star " award. I don't know how they give out awards but do NOT be mislead by that because it didn't apply in my case. The receivers is the worst performer in court.
She did such a lousy job. I never write reviews but decided to post here to save another me.
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13 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Lucy handled my family case from beginning to end, took all the pressure off me, all I had to do was answer her questions when she needed information PLUS she was always available to answer any of my questions especially during the first few days. 100% would REFER and RECOMMEND her.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
He’s a crook don’t hire him . He takes your money and hopes you’ll end up firing him so he can walk away freely. I don’t know if he’s still in a wheelchair or not but karma is real . I have much more negative things to say but I’ll keep it short don’t hire him Try Steve Nakano
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11 Nov, 2012 by Maria lopez
He's one of the best lawyers. He doesn't get back right away but he knows exactly what he's doing. He's great at what he does. This isn't that first case that he helped us with. He deals with high cases. I would recommend him to anyone. ;)
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25 Jan, 2020 by Mike
Mr. Kennedy was very disappointing. Many thinks he said he would do and could do he failed. In addition, when he was confronted with this, he did not complete the MSA and did not replay for months. I had to replace him.
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10 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a terrible experience with Mr. Kennedy. It took a couple years to finish the case due to his intentions of dragging on and on the case because he charged me by time. For example, we finished all the documents and he asked me if we could start all over again. Of course, I disagreed with that and he looked very disappointed. We were in the middle of the case which was put on hold because he took several very long vacations. It would have taken much longer to complete the case if my spouse's lawyer and I had not constantly requested him to do his job and not just leave the paperwork on the desk.
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09 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Stefan Kennedy is an attorney with integrity, true experience, deep knowledge of the law, and an extraordinary presence in the court room. He was extremely passionate about our case and fought to the bitter end for us and the best interests of our child. He was deeply involved in our child custody matter, analyzed the details from all angles, spent numerous weekend and evening hours with us to fully and completely understand the issues, and argued our case in ways that we, and others, could never have articulated.
We engaged other attorneys prior to Stefan and he clearly stands above the rest - large firms to small practices. He is highly respected among his peers, and is a familiar and well-known face in the Santa Clara County legal community. My wife and I still think back to the nights and weekends he spent reviewing our case, the tireless dedication, the late night/early morning emails, the charged and passionate phone calls and conversations, and the absolute love he clearly has for his work. He set a new standard for us, and set a very high bar for other attorneys who, unfortunately fall far short of this standard. I won't get into details, but he showed us incredible and unexpected generosity, and we'll never forget that. I can't speak enough to his quality as a person, and as a professional. He is and will always be first on our list for any poor soul looking for an attorney in a child custody matter, and one who truly cares.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Stuart was great and to the point - introductory call was very productive, and he acted quickly and intelligently to the matter at hand. Yet, since that, his associate, Mabel, took the lead, while being highly incapable of handling complex situations. Seems like she knows how to fit issues into simple boxes she already knows how to handle, and is not capable of any level of tactical or strategic thinking. With that inside the box thinking, Mable is great at breaking down her tasks to the smallest levels, take the time to note each one, and charge you for it. This way, the bill gets inflated to at least twice of what it should have been. And yes, as of 2023, you pay $500 and hour for either Stuart or Mabel. Meaning you pay at a great lawyer rate, and get below average associate.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Not good for me when i worrie about the case and she no call or explain, kind of mean and push me a lot to do this and then when I do not understan about what is happen in courthouse.
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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.
