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14 Aug, 2024 by Sheri headley
We are incredibly grateful for lan Morse for his compassion, competence and unwavering support. lan guided us through the complexities of the legal system with dedication and skill, fighting tirelessly to ensure our family received a just outcome. What truly stood out was his ability to go above and beyond, even when it was inconvenient for him. His kindness never wavered, and the results he achieved were nothing less than miraculous. lan's professionalism and clear communication made our challenging situation so much easier to navigate. We are beyond thankful that we chose him to represent us. If you are looking for a seasoned professional that truly cares and delivers exceptional results, we wholeheartedly recommend lan Morse's service.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
We are incredibly grateful for Ian Morse for his compassion, competence and unwavering support. Ian guided us through the complexities of the legal system with dedication and skill, fighting tirelessly to ensure our family received a just outcome. What truly stood out was his ability to go above and beyond, even when it was inconvenient for him. His kindness never wavered, and the results he achieved were nothing less than miraculous. Ian’s professionalism and clear communication made our challenging situation so much easier to navigate. We are beyond thankful that we chose him to represent us. If you are looking for a seasoned professional that truly cares and delivers exceptional results, we wholeheartedly recommend Ian Morse’s service .
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06 Aug, 2023 by Lr
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31 Oct, 2024 by Katy zoss
The best. Without a doubt. Don’t waste your time looking for anyone else. I promise. I can’t say enough, other than he and his team get the job done and provided you do what you are asked of, it will all work out.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Majeston
William took care of me with professionalism and efficiency. I highly recommend if you're in need of help! Thank you guys!
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29 Jun, 2024 by Jarrett gorin
I retained Mr. Makler to assist when my son was inappropriately charged with a violation. He is extremely knowledgeable and a very good advocate for his clients. We were kept up to date throughout the matter, and always received answers to any questions quickly. All charges were dismissed.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Grant lee
Josh is great
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07 Jan, 2021 by Chris l
Whenever you think about retaining a criminal defense attorney review their track record first and whether they have successfully defended their clients. In Josh’s case, in the major criminal cases he has defended, he hasn’t defended one client successfully in trial. Instead, what you’ll see is his clients pleading to often unfavorable terms—making the DA’s job that much easier while earning attorney fees. In 2010 Josh unsuccessfully ran for District Attorney. Following his lost he was subsequently fired from his position as a result of his behavior. This is all public record. Josh still remains in close contact with the same prosecutors who supported him during his election run; some whom he should be opposing in representing you his client. All of this remains an inherit conflict of interest. Recommend considering criminal defense attorneys who have a successfully track record of going to bat for the clients.
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29 Dec, 2019 by Camperjd camperdreborn
O'Brien is one of the best attorneys that I've seen in action. She cares for people!
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23 Feb, 2022 by Robert clanton
Thank you Diana Lytel for lending me your amazing legal mind!!!
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19 Feb, 2022 by Karen perez
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19 Feb, 2022 by Alana wetenhall
Best attorney I've encountered. Had a horrible experience with a different attorney and the luckily found Lytel. Amazingly thorough and hands on. Once I retained her, things moved swiftly and had a great outcome. Could not be happier. Cannot thank her enough!
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19 Jan, 2022 by Maya
Tracey and her team are extremely dedicated, compassionate and professional! I feel like a struck the jackpot when I hired her! She and her assistant, Channy, took on my case when I was in a dire and desperate situation and showed so much understanding, patience and competence. Through a long process with many hearings, they navigated through a complex family law case and a restraining order with multiple witnesses and evidence. Tracey’s demeanor, professionalism and expertise in court were phenomenal and she instantly earned credibility in front of the judge. She knows her job so well and is incredibly in tune with the intricacies and nuances of the laws and the California judicial system. She was always honest with me and laid our realistic expectations without sugar coating anything. She and her team often worked late nights and weekends to prepare for my case and were there for me professionally and personally. We won the case and through her commitment and hard work I was able to keep my children safe. I couldn’t recommend her enough!!!
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09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I loved her and her team! They were so professional and kind. She helped me navigate the waters of a very nasty divorce. I kept my house and now I have a new boyfriend. Life is great.
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15 Jul, 2019 by Anna
I was dreading the legal process and fighting my husband over our money and our children. He had threatened to take custody away and leave me in the worst place he possibly could, financially. I didn’t care about our material things but I did care about our children. Tracey sat down with me and explained the court process, the laws, and the realities of what to expect. She worked to get my case ready for court and she knew just what I needed to do. She advised me about a fair settlement and not to give up more than I wanted to simply out of fear. Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t because I deserved my fair share of our assets and I am glad that I stood firm. Tracey writes beautifully and expressed my points in court perfectly. When we were in court, she was confident and polished. She is definitely the epitome of a professional and experienced lady lawyer. She’s a fighter dressed up in a suit and pearls and all, but she will fight for you. I could not be happier with how she handled my case — give her a try you won’t be sorry!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Miguel
Complete waste of time. I was referred to their office by legal aid, tried to set up a consultation with the information I was given, NO help whatsoever. We were then asked to seek services outside of their office...
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19 Apr, 2024 by Perla lozano
Hola muy buenas tardes tengan todos , estas líneas son para agradecer a los abogados de David Chesley se los recomiendo muy eficaces en su trabajo muy responsables y sobre todo muy amables , recomendados 100 por ciento muy agradecida con. Su servicio y gracias
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15 Apr, 2024 by Ramiro mendoza
David Chesley best in town if u want a great attorney he’s the guy if y have any criminal history he’ll help u out in a matter of seconds always their when u need him he’s got the answer to all your questions especially he will figure out a payment plan for u guaranteed he’ll go all the way in for and make ur life easier help u step by step on what and how u should handle stuff he’s has the light to your darkness hole
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03 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I had hired a more senior lawyer to handle my divorce case against a well-heeled and rapacious (now ex) spouse. When this attorney took an unexpected leave for medical reasons, Morgan (then Nix, not Hoover) took over my case. Not sure if it was her burdened case load or her inexperience in dealing with predatory opponents, but she was cold, unimaginative, and unsympathetic throughout our time working together. While she answered emails and handled communications "efficiently," on the day of our 11.5-hr-long mediation session (over Zoom), she deferred almost entirely to the forensic accountant the law firm had hired, and when their legal strategy failed to elicit the mediating judge's sympathy, Morgan had no "Plan B." She then put the burden of negotiating and decision making entirely on me, even though I was clueless and emotionally ill-equipped for shouldering it, especially after 9 hrs of mediation. My settlement ended up being 40% less than what she and the accountant had claimed they could get for me. I feel she failed to truly invest in getting to know my case or me (though she had enough time to do so), and afterwards, when I expressed disappointment in the lower settlement, she pushed back in a very unprofessional way and refused to take any responsibility, blaming me for agreeing to the settlement. Based on her results and "bedside manner," in my case I would give her 1 star at best, but will up it to 2 because she promptly answering emails.
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14 Sep, 2020 by David lemmons
Amazing defense attorney. She believes in what she does. She stands by your side.. Trust and Believe...
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08 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I would recommend Morgan to anyone going through a custody battle, she really cares about you and about any concerns that you might have, she is really knowledgeable and she really pays close attention to every single detail. she is the best, she was recommended to me by a friend and thanks to her now I get to spend more time with my daughter, I am really happy I found her and hired her as my lawyer.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Mike
There is no way this guy has this good of a track record and such great reviews. Basically worst lawyer I have ever dealt with. Told me he would do the best he can to get rid of my bogus charges..but literally just lied ..took my money and did no work whatsoever. Actually seemed like he was more working in favor of the DA and criminal defense. This man is more of a scam artist than a lawyer....I would seriously even question if he is an actual lawyer and even went to law school. Seemed more like he took a one hour online school and printed out his diploma. This man did absolutely nothing he said he was going to do...and I would almost swear he didn't even bother even reading the paperwork and police report
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20 Oct, 2019 by Mark
From my first inquiry to Central Coast Criminal Defense I received valuable advice and attention. The team at Central CCCD provided three experienced attorneys to represent me and my case, providing a broad wealth of experience and advice. Phone calls, questions and inquiries were always met with professional and prompt attention. When criminal charges are brought against you, it becomes an overwhelming and daunting experience. It is imperative that you have confidence in those you hire to represent you. Should a criminal charge be leveled against you, prudence suggests that you make phone calls and inquires with as many attorneys as possible, and Central Coast Criminal Defense deserves your early review. Should an emergent situation require immediate attention, you can have confidence in the representation of Jimmy Askew and his team. All costs, advice on immediate and future steps in your defense, and a candid evaluation of your options are clearly presented. Truly valuable relief in a very stressful situation.
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30 Nov, 2018 by Joey
Mr.Askew has done nothing but an amazing job during his tenure as an attorney, I am speaking as a former client and aspiring attorney myself. He has defended myself and a few of the people I have referred to him who were charged with allegations that were unfair and unjust.if you have even an inkling of doubt that you may be innocent that is a for sure sign to contact Jimmie to see what can be done with your legal matter.
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31 Jul, 2024 by James a
Worst communication from this legal team. I felt like I had to request information over and over again. I’m still waiting on information. I called and messaged them with no reply. I’m almost certain my case is nearly done but they’ve told me nothing.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Michelle herrera
I found Ghitterman, Ghitterman & Feld about 5 years ago when the law firm that was representing our son literally dropped the ball with a workmans comp. Case. They took right over and got us the results that we needed for our son. Our situation is different than normal where ours is a 3 case situation. We settled the first case which was the workman's comp case and we were very pleased with the results. We have just settled the 2nd case which we initially believed was not going to be a case, but we are now waiting for a settlement check in the mail and very, very pleasantly surprised with the outcome. Last case is in the works and I have no doubt that we will get the results we hope for on this one as well. They made us feel heard, included us in all steps and decisions and fought hard for us as their clients. 5 STAR SERVICE AND REPRESENTATION all the way. Thank you Ghitterman, Ghitterman & Feld for all you've done and continue to do for our son.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Jomer ulymer jamero
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17 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Not the most compassionate lawyer. Did a consultation on a divorce case a little over a year ago. Had very little patience, irritable, did not seem very knowledgeable and just overall not a great experience. Different lawyer was able to succeed in what I was hoping for through my divorce despite Ms. Ferreira’s belief that it wouldn’t succeed. The consultation request itself took over 10 days to happen from the moment her office was contacted by me. Her staff was nice though, they were very pleasant in their correspondence with me. I’d recommend someone else if you’re looking for a divorce lawyer.
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06 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Gabriela and Jasmin are amazing! They truely care. Gabriela helped me in a situation and all she cared about, really, was the help and resolution. Gabriela was also super flexible payments wise and I really appreciate her for bringing excellent results! Profesional, knowledgable and experienced . Jasmin is super awesome and super friendly! They went above and beyond to help and with successes! I highly recommend them and I am grateful for all they have done for me!
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20 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
It was a waste of time and money. I got the previlege of paying hundreds of dollars extra on top of full speeding ticket fine which I could have done on my own. No communication. He would provide no update or status unless asked.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Atul singh
Michael has got me dismissed a $490 ticket with possible 2 points on my driving record. I can't thank him enough for his professionalism and work ethics. I got this speeding ticket in Bakersfield while on my way back from Yosemite to LA. I hope no one gets speeding ticket, but if you do then do not hesitate to get in touch with Michael. He will surely help you out. Drive safe guys!
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01 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I went to him for a family law issue. After spending about $15,000.00 I was not closer to having the legal agreement I needed for myself and my children. He boasted that he was well liked by the judge and the other attorney was afraid of him. Being emotionally fragile from the divorce situation, I felt taken advantage of in the respect that he knew my most important issue was my child custody and even after all that money I did not have a custody agreement, just a bunch of papers saying he did this and she did that. Worthless. Come to find out he's not so well respected or even that bright for that matter. Do your self a favor and stay clear of this person.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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