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5.0
49 Reviews
07 May, 2024 by Collin hannigan
Really good team at King. My situation sucked but they fought for me and delivered.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Tiana malave
Great staff and business and Great experience! Very well done work start to finish. Highly recommend!
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30 Oct, 2023 by K h
Best I've worked with after other companies were quick to give me the run around. Would recommend them to anyone in need.
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07 May, 2024 by Collin hannigan
Really good team at King. My situation sucked but they fought for me and delivered.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Tiana malave
Great staff and business and Great experience! Very well done work start to finish. Highly recommend!
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30 Oct, 2023 by K h
Best I've worked with after other companies were quick to give me the run around. Would recommend them to anyone in need.
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07 May, 2024 by Collin hannigan
Really good team at King. My situation sucked but they fought for me and delivered.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Tiana malave
Great staff and business and Great experience! Very well done work start to finish. Highly recommend!
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30 Oct, 2023 by K h
Best I've worked with after other companies were quick to give me the run around. Would recommend them to anyone in need.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend John as an exceptional DUI lawyer. Before I even reached out, I received numerous positive recommendations about him. From my initial contact, John was responsive and attentive, listening carefully to my situation with genuine empathy. He was clear about what he could and couldn’t promise, providing transparent guidance throughout the process. Dealing with a DUI while managing personal crises, including my father's hospice care and my mother's dementia, was incredibly challenging. John’s sincere care and his focus on what was realistically achievable made a significant difference. He guided me through every step, from counseling to volunteer work, and his advice proved invaluable. John’s expertise was evident when he successfully handled my DMV hearing. He then achieved a remarkable result in the criminal court, securing a reduced charge that was better than expected. This outcome allows me a fresh start. John's professionalism, honesty, and dedication were beyond my expectations. His hard work has given me a second chance, and I am deeply grateful for his support and the outstanding results he delivered.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Josh
John defended me in court and went above and beyond in his duty to represent me zealously. I would recommend him a thousand times over.
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17 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
John absolutely went above and beyond helping me with my case. He was patient, compassionate, and empathetic. It is hard to find an attorney that genuinely has your well-being and best interest at heart, but I really felt John cared about getting me the best outcome possible. His guidance and support were immeasurably helpful. Thank you!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Giovanna mitchell
Thoughts of even attempting to navigate the complexities of the justice system is no easy feat...let alone actually doing it, however, Mr. Janecki saw my problems and took them head on, without any hesitation. His unwavering commitment to my case gave me the hope and the confidence to see my case through to the end, rather than give up/give in to the DA's original plea deal(s) at the very beginning. His strategic approach, attention to detail, and professionalism were evident from our initial telephone call last June, to the final (and best!) resolution of my case today. I feel very fortunate to have had him by side during this very challenging time for me. His exceptional skills as an attorney have left me nothing short of impressed and have further inspired me to continue my legal education to hopefully one day be able to offer the same high-quality of services to my own clients.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Arjun patel
I would highly recommend Andrew Janecki. He represented me for a traffic matter in Santa Cruz as I was out of state. This was my first time ever working with an attorney and I was apprehensive about the matter. Andrew was communicative from the moment I called him. He had prompt responses, detailed explanations during each step of the process and showed the willingness to exhaust all options.
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30 May, 2024 by Ron digiovine
I called Andrew Janecki and he promptly called me back to give me guidance on expunging information on a dismissed charge from many years ago. He was informative, straightforward and above all honest in giving me the right government contact to get my situation rectified. I would highly recommend him.
Ron
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09 Feb, 2024 by Busy bee services
I called at 7:20PM and Balam Loyola, picked up my call…that was a pleasant surprise. I am currently seeking legal advice, and he was able to give me some good information.
Thank you!
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14 Aug, 2023 by Anne friscia
Balam gave me great advice regarding a car issue and explained how the California Lemon law worked. My issue was resolved quickly and in my favor. I would not hesitate to use his services again. He was thorough, patient, and very fair. I highly recommend him.
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30 Dec, 2022 by Noah jarvis
I highly recommend The Law Office of Balam O Letona. I had bought a vehicle from a dealership in San Jose and after a multitude of problems and the dealership giving me the run around I had to find a solution. I reached out to Balam by phone and right away he listened and started to help me out. Without Balam Letona's help I would have been stuck with a broken car and out of a lot of money. I can confidently say that if anyone has trouble with a car dealership that they can contact Balam.
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28 Jul, 2020 by Amanda patton
I am so grateful for the outstanding customer service I received from Brette Evans and her staff. I was so scared to even consider taking on this process but from the very moment I spoke to Brette about my situation, she made me feel at ease and informed about the whole process. David was also helpful when it came to answering my many questions and concerns about this process. Even in the midst of COVID shutdowns, Brette and her team were incredibly responsive and compassionate about my needs and budget. Brette made me feel comfortable and cared for every step of the way. I highly recommend contacting Brette and her wonderful team if you are scared and on the fence about your options.
UPDATE 4/2021: It’s been over a year since Brette helped me file and I’m doing really well. My credit has shot back up into the 700’s because I followed through with the post-case recommendations that Brette suggested. I got a credit card with a small limit and I use it a few times a month to buy food. I make sure to pay it off at the end of the month, and this method has helped me rebuild my credit. I am so grateful that I made the decision to work with Brette on this. What a relief it has been to get a second chance.
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12 Aug, 2019 by Evan azevedo
16 Jul, 2019 by Billie thibodeau
I walked into Evans Law Offices feeling stressed, conflicted, and feeling some shame for my situation and walked out feeling like one thousand pounds of weight lifted off my shoulders! The light and cheerful consultation was totally supportive, informative, and a confidence boost. The consultation also prepared me in concrete ways for a bright and successful new chapter in my life. Oh, my word, I am so glad I found this law office! Brette Evans validated all of my challenging experiences regarding finances which I thought were quite hopeless. I was informed of the most beneficial and cost effective avenue to solve these challenges putting me and my financial needs before any agenda of legal fees. I have never experienced a legal advocate of this magnitude before. I want everyone to know just how substantial the help I received from Brette Evans was! In the past, I have wasted money on lawyers whose focus was on making as much money as they could with mediocre services and Evans Law Offices is not that. I am so grateful for their services and I recommend them to everyone.
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02 Sep, 2017 by Aly
Sal Gallardo is one of the best intelligent and intellectually well equipped professionals when it comes to the law. He came with the background of 19 years of his own law practice and his wife who is an attorney where experience of both will get you through where someone else might not. Sal Gallardo has passion for helping people to bring the law at the level where your biography is important and good moral characters will be passed to the next level- where judge will have a chance to hear and know more about you and your case. while DA will keep flashing the titles of multiple accusations build against of you.
Sal is emotionally calm and well carried person. You will need him to help you to do it together. And his help will pay you back through keeping your reputation clean again.
Sal will help you to stay calm through the whole process, as its going to be a long process going up to months. All what we have to do -stay positive and keep ourselves calm as you are in hands of professional attorney. It was hard to stay positive when the charges I faced against of me appeared on a background check report as a very bad charges you can face being a manager or employee to have ;-)
Not Even proved guilty Yet I looked as a true criminal facing 2 charges in one case.....
Oh well it was a very well written story which some creative mistress of my ex Mr.
passed to the DA office to keep me further from the boy who has all the right assets)))).
Please don't hesitate to have legal help twice.
And I contacted Sal to see if he can explain the fact of happening. He did. Big corporations can run macro background checks where every case which was taken by DA`s offices can appear on those reports depending on company data research provider. It`s not necessary to have conviction or misdemeanor proven when it can affect your life in a way employer won`t give you a chance to explain yourself till its actually over.
Sal is the only lawyer who was able to respond on the fact of happening!
Do not panic! Do not stress out. Be calm and confident in the one whom you already contacted. Because he will do it with knowledge and confidence. Finding all ins and out of the tunnel of not being a free man, and you will have the best outcome possible.
that was a hard first step. Now my case is resolved and over months later.
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09 Apr, 2017 by Joeq
When you are looking for an attorney in Santa Cruz County it's important to find someone who has been around a long time and knows everyone in the county. Sal Gallardo was highly recommended to me by a large law firm who said " this guy is really good and will do a great job for you and possibly save you a little money" so the got me in touch with Sal. When i first spoke with him i knew right away he was the one i wanted to handle my case. Sal is very personable and aggressively represented me. I received a very favorable outcome and was able to avoid any jail time due to his efforts. You may want to do yourself a favor and give him a call and find out for yourself why Sal is the tight choice when hiring an attorney in Santa Cruz County. Thanks Sal !
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16 Jun, 2016 by Brianna golding
I discovered a 5 year old warrant for an old misdemeanor case out of Santa Cruz where I attended school many years ago. I called Sal in an absolute panic - I had worked so hard to turn my life around and everything was about to come to crumble because of this new case. Sal, from the moment we talked, was kind, patient and thorough. He communicated with me every step of the way and actually made me feel like my case mattered to him. It was so refreshing to have a lawyer who made me feel like I had someone in my corner. Sal ended up getting my case DISMISSED! One of my charges was a failure to appear at my own trial! I couldn't believe it. It was the best result I could have ever asked for. I am grateful he took the time to get to know me so he could properly advocate for me in court. THANK YOU SAL!
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15 Jul, 2021 by Brad
My partner and I hired Eric to help us with a Real Estate Disclosure case. Eric worked above and beyond what we ever expected and kept going strong even when our case became more complicated and difficult. His knowledge of real estate disclosure laws was impressive and he was able to go head to head in depositions against the best insurance lawyers out there. Our case finally settled and we couldn't be more thankful for Eric's services. Eric's hard work and patience is the reason why we were not left financially devastated for years to come. He puts his heart and soul into his work and cared as deeply about our case as we did ourselves. I couldn't recommend a more competent, professional, and honest lawyer.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Heather
We could not be happier with the service Eric Nelson provided as our attorney. His competency and discernment led to an unexpectedly favorable outcome to our case, and during the process leading up to that we found him to be exceptionally professional, accessible and easy to communicate with. We were especially impressed with his handling of the depositions. Being new to the legal process of a lawsuit, we greatly appreciated the care Eric took to make us less vulnerable and explain things with knowledge. He consistently combined this knowledge with genuine warmth and humility, bringing in a positive and much appreciated human aspect to the process that made the case go as smoothly as possible. We found Eric to be a very ideal attorney, and highly recommend him.
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25 Sep, 2013 by Melody
I worked with Eric on an EDD (unemployment) dispute. He clearly knows employment laws and helped me to clarify and strategize to appeal this case. I would highly recommend him for your attorney needs! By the way, we won the appeal.
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09 Jun, 2018 by Bel
Lars is a phenomenal person and lawyer. I hired him based on some frantic internet research at a turbulent time in my life and got so much more than I ever expected. He was fighting for me even before I started fighting for myself ! I had moved out of the area and was not able to be at the many many court dates for this drawn out case and Lars was always there for me. When I called, he answered or called me right back. I was never left in the dark and was able to get the best outcome I possibly could have with a combination of Lars' excellence and a little luck on our side ! Due to my distance, Lars had to mail things to me frequently and we never missed a deadline. Even now the case has been decided, I know I can call him with questions regarding the result. You can really tell he cares and knows what he's doing. Thank you, Lars!! :)
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30 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Lars has expeditiously represented me in court and had my case dismissed (Hit and Run) where I damaged a vehicle. I am very pleased with the outcome.
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24 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
It was with integrety and skill that Mr.Shallburg defended my loved one. His skill and knowledge is remarkable...and he does all this while making it look easy. Thankyou Lars.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Linda
Jonathan Che Gettleman is the best, brightest and most humane lawyer I have had the privilege to utilize. Indeed, he is the only one I know. I have had multiple experiences with soul sick rapacious lazy attorneys thus I speak from experience. Gettleman saved me from an evil premeditated ploy by the former DA Boob Lee, who fabricated & falsified evidence to incarcerate me for 4.5 years. In court the gallant & savvy Gettleman well established within the first month the DA had done so. But the corrupt John Gallagher, the presiding court overlord - he doesn't deserve the title 'judge' - let their shameful sham continue for one year. This at considerable waste of tax payers precious revenues in order to psychologically terrorize me. This is only one example of the elite privileged Santa Cruz good ole white boys in pubic law enforcement who commit financial fraud paid for by local tax payers. As I asserted to these Santa Cruz overlords "if they had to pay for this out of their own bank accounts their crass corruption would be over". I was shocked at how easy LEO's abuse their sacred vows & squander tax payer money. This motivated me to write a research paper titled "Jails R Us". Detailing the disgusting ways the U$A uses & abuses law enforcement, government prisons & the cannibalizing for profit prisons to destroy 'We the Peons".
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08 Dec, 2015 by Bryan
He was diligent with his research and realistic with his forecasts. Which I hope every lawyer would be. But at the same time he was calming. He made sure I stayed out of my own head and that my family felt comfortable. In the end he kept me out of jail. I was exposed to 11 years and served 3 months.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Debora and clint
Bryan has provided excellent service and representation handling our case. He has guided us all along the way, being informative and clear. Very dependable, easy to talk to, and knowledgeable. He has tackled every aspect available to resolve our issue for our best outcome.
Highly recommend him.
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05 Feb, 2010 by Tammy
My case was extremely hard to win - yet Mr. Hackett won my case!! At my trial, Mr. Hackett got the judge to exclude the prosecution's evidence and have all public records of my arrest sealed!!
I learned about Mr. Hackett by asking another lawyer in the area that did not feel qualified in handling my case who they would recommend, and he was their top recommendation in the Monterrey / Salinas area. Before learning of Mr. Hackett I was desperate and had even contacted a lawyer from one of those big state-wide legal websites - they said my case wasn't worth their time and hung up on me. Yet when I first called Mr. Hackett, he asked for details of my case, and then researched my case further on his own before agreeing to take the case. He did so because he wanted to help me, yet did not feel comfortable taking my money if he did think there was at least a chance he could win my case. For him to do non-billable work before even taking the case, solely for my benefit, speaks volumes on his character. Mr. Hackett is incredibly honest, knowledgeable, and hard-working.
After he agreed to take my case, he continually kept me informed by email and phone. Not once did I have to contact him first and wait for a return a call. He contacted me whenever there was an update or merely to see if I had any questions. If I did call, he always called me back immediately. He also explained his reasoning for each action involved with the case, which was extremely helpful to someone like me that knows nothing of the law.
Lastly, and the most important part - he is a fantastic lawyer! He is incredibly thorough and meticulous - researching the law, searching for anything that can help your case, evaluating numerous avenues for your defense, with no stone left unturned. Mr. Hackett's thorough knowledge of the law and perseverance in finding ways to support my evidence was incredible, and as stated above, won my case, leaving me with a clean record!! I couldn't be happier!!
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27 Feb, 2017 by David
Mr. Dudley is an excellent attorney and is very knowledgeable. My expungement process was handled very well and I was kept informed throughout the process. His billing was fair and I am glad I hired him to handle my expungements.
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04 Jan, 2017 by Jim
Great attorney. would hire Michael again. I highly recommend him He worked very long and hard on my case.
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16 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I couldn't ask for more. I was facing an inordinately nasty charge for a relatively small misunderstanding at a very young, barely adult age. With a court appointed attorney, I would've received jail time, despite it being my first arrest.
I asked the bail bondsman who the good attorneys are in town. He gave a few names, paused, and then said "but if you've got the money and really want the best, Paul Meltzer is it."
I spoke with the other attorneys first, and they seemed perfectly fine. Their retainers were about $3,000. I met with Paul last. His credentials largely speak for themselves. Berkeley Law, suma somethin' cum laude, represents some large real estate entity in Pebble Beach, etc. Paul's retainer was $5,000 (pretty sure). Keep in mind this was in the early 2000's. If the case needed to go to trial, Paul's well-earned services become very expensive - too expensive for me.
Fortunately, Paul had my case dismissed much faster than any CA trial could begin.
I still remember my last court date and seeing the look on the ADA's face after the judge ruled for dismissal. He was staring right at Paul with his eyes wide and mouth slightly agape, as if to say "how in the world did this guy just pull that off?!"
If there were a law against being smooth and getting things done, Paul would be a wanted man, and the only criminal in court that day.
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18 Nov, 2010 by Selma seljuk
MandyTover was a great help in my brothers case ,if you need a good attorney with a compassionate heart and smart's she is the one i recomend. appreciated mandy very much .......thank you ..
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20 Nov, 2016 by Robert
Hired Mr. Stotter to defend me in a DUI case. I crashed my car after a medical emergency, but I had alcohol and medications in my system so they arrested me for DUI. I had a prior felony DUI, so they wanted state prison! Mr. Stotter refused to settle the case and fought all the way to trial. Our witnesses convinced the jury to dismiss all the charges.
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07 Apr, 2023 by Charlie randall muller (capitola charlie)
He got me off on a murder charge.. thank you Jesus!
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03 Feb, 2020 by Ron packard, jr.
Kind man. Respectful.
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29 May, 2017 by Garrett gordon
07 Apr, 2023 by Charlie randall muller (capitola charlie)
He got me off on a murder charge.. thank you Jesus!
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03 Feb, 2020 by Ron packard, jr.
Kind man. Respectful.
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29 May, 2017 by Garrett gordon
06 Sep, 2024 by Anerol arecol
Very helpful and supportive team!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Barbara lewis
08 Aug, 2024 by Donna alm
I have been going through this experience with the support and guidance of the wonderful people that work with Central Coast Bankruptcy .
From my first encounter, every person from Mr.Vogelpohl, the legal assistants, and the receptionists have expressed professionalism , patience with my questions and concerns, and kindness throughout this past year. They have expertly assisted me and we have achieved an outcome that surpassed my expectations !
My case was complicated and they helped me understand and explained everything as many times as I asked.
I have been able to alleviate the financial stress through their support knowledge and expertise.
I am on the way to a new bright financially stable future that I couldn’t have achieved on my own. Thank you for helping me get back on track to a secure and stable financial future .
I recommend Central Coast Bankruptcy for their professionalism, kindness, honesty and expertise that has led to a positive outcome for me and my financial and physical well being.
One last note … if you need help give them a call
Making the call was the hardest
yet the best decision I could’ve made !
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05 Oct, 2024 by Carlos espino
I am incredibly thankful to Isabel Soto and the entire team, especially Jose, the paralegal, for helping me secure my residency. From day one, they made the process feel less overwhelming by walking me through each step and ensuring everything was done right.
Jose was there for me at every stage—answering my questions, organizing all the paperwork, and keeping me updated. His attention to detail and willingness to help made a huge difference, and it was clear that both he and Isabel genuinely cared about me and my case.
Thanks to their hard work, I’m now a permanent resident! I’m also excited to continue working with them when it’s time to apply for my citizenship. Their professionalism and dedication have been so impressive that I’ve already decided to have them represent other family members as well.
If you’re looking for an immigration team that’s knowledgeable, responsive, and truly cares about their clients, I highly recommend Isabel and Jose. They’ve made this journey much smoother, and I couldn’t be happier with the results so far!
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31 Aug, 2024 by Tom nguyen
They helped me bringing not only my parents but also my wife over to the States without any issues. Service is great and fast. 10/10 would recommend
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05 Aug, 2024 by Maria alondra gonzalez
Muy profesionales en su trabajo,
amables y atentos
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01 May, 2024 by Franky acevedo
What can I say, true professional with exceptional attention to detail. Jeffrey C. Stotter helped me with a legal matter with true professionalism. He walked me through each step of the process, and went above and beyond to keep me informed with all matter involving my case. He made me feel like family, not just his client. Excellent lawyer.
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01 May, 2024 by Sawyer chase
Jeffrey Stotter did me a major solid by representing me in a dui case last minute. He walked me through everything I needed to know. He was timely, punctual and gave me a good price. Good communication, straight to the point and had a lot of experience in the courtroom. He went above and beyond for me, I recommend him to anyone seeking legal help.
Thanks Jeffrey
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30 Apr, 2024 by Chris white
Great lawyer
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04 Mar, 2013 by Katrina
Very professional and knowledgeable! Listened to every detail of my case and made me feel listened to and taken care of! Won my case and had integrity!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Stay away from Brian and his shady practices!!!
My MIL who is a 65 was living in an apartment with black mold in the valley ( property management company was Golden Bee)and since the property management company failed to do their part to safely remove the mold, my MIL and her roommate searched for a contingency attorney based on low funds.She hired Brian Heit with Adept Legal Counsel PC- his old law firm is Heit Law Group. It was months of back and forth with the property management company, they moved out 7 months ago, and finally last month Mercury Insurance issued compensation and sent the check to Brian at Adept. The issue now is Brian said he sent the checks to my MIL and her roommate but claims they were returned back to his offices and when my MIL and roommate asked for more info like tracking info, etc he has halted all communication. Since then he has closed his Westlake office, disconnected his 2 phone numbers, and won’t answer emails or chats. I contacted him on social media and he blocked me after trying to find out how to obtain my MIL check. It’s like he took the $50,000 and walked off. My MIL is not sure what to do at this point. Mercury won’t reissue a check, I’ve tried to contact him on all social media platforms with no results. I looked at reviews for his old firm in Miami - Heit Law Group P.C. And it seems he has a history of scamming those who cannot pay up front. Filed a complaint to the CA Bar as well. My MIL and room mate were supposed to receive 16k each and Brian Heit was supposed to receive 18k. He now has all of it with no resolution. He has offices supposedly in Covina and Santa Cruz?
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08 May, 2016 by Aja
Brian Morgan Heit really saved me in a really bad situation. I was robbed while traveling and extorted with my credit cards. The credit card company tried to stick me with all the fraud charges of over $7000 dollars. After Mr. Heit contacted the credit card company they reopened the case Mr. Heit and he did not stop following thru with the case until the case was closed in my favor. I would highly recommend Mr. Heit and his firm they are very professional and personal. Thank you so much Brian Morgan Hiet you really saved me.
Aloha Aja Oxman
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28 Apr, 2016 by Jessica
Brian Heit has been helpful on a number of legal issues for me: business purchase and new business consulting, commercial property management, employee relations, family law and several contract reviews. Some of the issues were very stressful and emotional for me. He did a great job of easing my anxieties with his knowledge of the law, but he also did it in a way that shared his depth of knowledge yet still explained everything in "non-legal terms" that felt accessible. He is reliable, honest and a good listener. He also did a great job of explaining different options to me. So far, everything he has worked an has been resolved to my liking.
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10 Jul, 2023 by Nicole
Art was super communicative in the beginning with me, and then it seemed like maybe he was getting old, maybe he has dementia or something, but he just stopped. He was working on my dads appeal, and would give me updates whenever I called and then one day he just stopped returning my calls, wouldn't respond and then I realized he hadnt done what he said he was going to do and it almost cost me my dads life. My father had a mistake on his prison record, he won his appeal and those charges were completely erased from the judicial system, but not from the prison system, dudley sent us his appellate decision to help my dad inside by clearing his name with the inmates, which I appreciated, but he then promised he would have it removed from the prisons system as well, and he never followed through, so when my dad was moved to a different prison, they tried to kill him all over again and now Dudley wont take my calls or respond to me, his receptionist used to tell me he was in court or busy or would get back to me, but now she just says hes unavailable and she will tell him I called. The only thing that I can think is that Dudley needs to retire because he has Alzheimer's, dementia or something affecting his brain so heavily that he can't remember what he was supposed to do, but he isn't the attorney he used to be, and its beyond time for him to retire.
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11 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired him, yet 6 months later we have seen zero progress in the case. Seems to be a great attorney but simply has no time for his clients. Lots of promises no results.
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23 Apr, 2016 by Jeffrey
I reached Art Dudley by phone after many attempts to discuss reducing my conviction to a misdemeanor subsequent to serving probation. He asked me to send him a letter listing the status and details of my case. He never acted upon my request. When I reached him again he told me that the it will automatically be converted after the three year probation expires. Thirteen years had expired and I did a background check on myself. The conviction was still listed as a felony. I had the conviction expunged by another attorney, but remain very frustrated by the way mr. Dudley would not take the time to help me after my sentence was served.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Harold
"he" was the worst possible, fraudulent, fake representation possible.
I am now anti-Semitic, anti-American and homophobic after having met this person...
The best thing I can say about "him" is that "he" is only more proof that Adolf Hitler had the right idea.
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30 Oct, 2013 by Ron
This Lawyer was always late for court. He hired law students to do his research since he doesn't like computers. Didn't even have a copy machine. He gave me bad advice and ruined my life. Don't let the Harvard Degree fool you.
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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:
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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.
