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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
39 Reviews
20 Aug, 2024 by Catherine lynn
Dan Smyth is very professional, knowledgeable and caring. He walked me through the whole process and explained everything I needed to know in detail. He took his time and I was able to contact him whenever I needed. Dan went above and beyond and I felt he was truly genuine and honest. I would highly recommend him and his firm to my family and friends.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Chris jennings
Dan & his team were absolutely amazing. Couldn't have asked for better representation. The communication was great, they answered any questions or concerns I had. I felt that they actually cared about me as a person rather than just a client. In terms of my case, they blew my expectations away. Highly recommend !!!
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25 Jul, 2024 by A leoutsakos
Dan Smyth is an incredible person and lawyer. He is extremely knowledgeable of the law, but his commitment to his clients is what sets him apart. He helped me through a confusing and complicated time, and I felt better knowing Dan was there to help me every step of the way. I would highly recommend Sutton and Smyth.
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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
1192 Reviews
11 Oct, 2024 by Bruce f thornton
At work, driving the company car, I collided with a wall at about ten miles per hour as I looked down at google maps to check my routing. The old and loose stone wall collapsed and crumbled on impact. I waited for two hours on the scene for the homeowner, rang the bell, googled them, found their number, called them. Nothing. The accident took place near the Scarsdale Public Library and my supervisor drove from our office in Eastchester to assess the situation. Given that we expected no contact with the residents, my supervisor and I deemed it reasonable that I could visit the library to use the lavatory. Remarkably, as I entered the library parking lot, my supervisor called to bring me back to the scene of the accident. The police had arrived. The homeowners were present. Insurance covered the wall but I was issued a summons for leaving the scene of an accident. Joe and Barbara were the first people I called. I’ve been in the area long enough to know who to go to in Scarsdale when I’m in hot water. They argued my case and won it. No points. I paid a parking ticket. Thank you Joseph Villanueva and Barbara B for knowing how to handle a crisis and doing so with grace and humanity.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Susan overing
I really don’t have enough good things to say about working with Joseph and his firm. I got a speeding ticket and hired Joseph’s firm because I couldn’t attend on my court date and the entire process just made me anxious. He was able to plead me down to just a fine with zero pints! Do not hesitate to hire them! The process was easy, smooth, and worth every penny..
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04 Oct, 2024 by Vick marynyak
Resolved and issues for driver from my company in time
Excellent service
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29 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Excellent, efficient, and great communication. Eli responded to my question promptly and worked hard to deliver results. Thanks again for helping us!
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11 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Eli Moore handled our case from start to finish professionally. This took the burden from our family knowing the case was in good hands. It was my first time to hire a lawyer and I’m happy to say that it was a relief to hand over the details to a professional rather than trying to handle ourselves. Would definitely recommend Eli.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Shentah
Eli was professional and took care of a Speeding ticket I received. Thanks.
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18 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
At first I was very worried that there was no hope for my case or situation. But without fail John has been there every step of the way with me easing my anxiety and reassuring me that he’ll get the best outcome. He’s kind and patient and has taken his time to explain every detail of the case and the defense. He even had a meeting with family members to dismiss their worry. He was very caring and took my case seriously and although I doubted that the case could get dismissed he made that happen. My case was completely dismissed and I could not be more grateful for the work and time Mr. Cromwell has put into this. I had a DUI case that was dismissed. If your looking for a great lawyer to do what’s in your best interest always this is the guy.
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17 May, 2019 by Reuben
He was always on time, sharp and comfortable in the courtroom.
I recommend John for any one looking for justice.
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27 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
After being arrest for a criminal offense and finding myself in a situation that could effect my entire future, I went ahead with the grueling task of having to find legal representation. I went through a few consultations with other lawyers but I felt extremely confident and at ease with Mr. Cromwell throughout the whole process of my case. He keeps a very calm and kind demeanor. This truly helped with my level of stress and anxiety I was going through. Never once did I feel as if he was judging me. He answered my text and calls in a very timely manner and was always available to answer any questions I had. While in court I can see the other attorneys in the room come to him to seek his advice. He got me the best possible outcome and he gave me back my life!! For which I am truly grateful. I recommend John M. Cromwell to anyone that needs a knowledgeable and professional criminal attorney that gets the job done. Thank you John!
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22 Mar, 2024 by Patricia pasquale
The best!
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04 Nov, 2022 by Luis terrero
16 Oct, 2020 by Kavitha srinivas
I cannot recommend her enough. She is the best advocate for you, prompt, responsive, amazing!!!
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01 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
John Pettiness is a great attorney, not only is he a great attorney he truly cares about his clients and their case. When I first meet Mr. Pettiness I saw in His eyes that he cared. I was really afraid I never in my life have been arrested before didn't know what to expect but John was there for me not only as an attorney but a psychologist and a dear friend. This case was huge I had an altercation with an NYPD Detective I knew my life and my family's life could have been destroyed if I was found guilty but Mr. Pettiness kept fighting for me and my family and wouldn't take No!! for an answer when I wanted to give up and had no more fight in me . I saw the fire in his eyes to keep pushing and A year and a few months later my case was threw out. My family is truly grateful for Mr. Pettiness. If you are looking for Justice in your Criminal case Call John Pettiness . He will fight to the end.
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25 Apr, 2012 by Tim
Great Experience, Great Outcome - Fought for my case and did not settle until I received the positive outcome John promised,
John was there to council me and advise me on my case. He gave me a full layout of the possible positive and negative outcomes I could face (without scarring me to death.) He then offered his opinion based on his extensive understanding of the court system of what he expects to happen.
As for trustworthyness, I think the fact that he made aware of the retainer cost, what it covers and after extensive hearings, he stayed tru to the original retainer amount and got the result he initially envisioned. So in other word, There was no discrepency, additional charges or misunderstandings - I got exactly what I paid for and more.
I referred John to someone who was facing a more serious crime. I reached out to him at 10:00pm on a Tuesday. He was at the courthouse by mid-night to council the person in need, was there the next day an next day until he got released. His charges were originally very serious, but John was able to reduce the charges to a very ideal and minor charge.
Bottom line is John is a man of his word, with a proven track record.
HIghy recommended.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Jillian
the furthest thing from my mind was having to use a lawyer!, how ever there is a first time for everything, My Land Lord was giving me such a issue, regarding fixing things in my apartment. worst part , I was getting sick often and couldn't figure out why?! I contacted Mr. Iannace because my landlord was harassing me and calling my place of employment for withholding rent which was due to unfixed things in the apartment. I had so many questions, Concerns. Mr Iannace answered all of my questions, went over what my best options were as far as the harassment went. None of my phone calls or emails went unanswered! I felt at ease for a time period that I thought I would crack under pressure. Mr Iannace is the absolute best
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17 Feb, 2016 by Mike
used him for a real estate deal. He was fast, knowledgeable, and resolved all problems that arose efficiently. Better than my prior lawyer. I would recommend him highly.
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11 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
John is an amazing attorney he and his son represented my child in a criminal proceeding with highley favorable results considering the mess he got himself into.For john it wasnt about the money it was about helping his client and giving it his all he went above and beyond he became more then just an attorney he became like family I thank god for him and his son they gave a child a second chance at life.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Patricia pasquale
The best!
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04 Nov, 2022 by Luis terrero
16 Oct, 2020 by Kavitha srinivas
I cannot recommend her enough. She is the best advocate for you, prompt, responsive, amazing!!!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Catherine lynn
Dan Smyth is very professional, knowledgeable and caring. He walked me through the whole process and explained everything I needed to know in detail. He took his time and I was able to contact him whenever I needed. Dan went above and beyond and I felt he was truly genuine and honest. I would highly recommend him and his firm to my family and friends.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Chris jennings
Dan & his team were absolutely amazing. Couldn't have asked for better representation. The communication was great, they answered any questions or concerns I had. I felt that they actually cared about me as a person rather than just a client. In terms of my case, they blew my expectations away. Highly recommend !!!
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25 Jul, 2024 by A leoutsakos
Dan Smyth is an incredible person and lawyer. He is extremely knowledgeable of the law, but his commitment to his clients is what sets him apart. He helped me through a confusing and complicated time, and I felt better knowing Dan was there to help me every step of the way. I would highly recommend Sutton and Smyth.
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14 Feb, 2018 by Nancy
I contacted Mr Orden for help on a personal matter that required immediate action. Mr Orden jumped in instantly to gather case details, address the appropriate people and set up parameters and next steps. Unfortunately the matter took place in a southern state of the US, and Mr Orden concluded that it was best for me to work with an attorney from the state. Until one was identified, Mr Orden stated involved and engaged.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Rayshawn
Stewart Orden is an intelligent and wonderful Attorney. He showed efficient work and fully dedicated his time, as well as attention to my case. Though it was impossible to beat my case, I was trully happy with the results. If anyone is ever in a situation and needs criminal advising, Stewart Orden is the way to go.
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10 Sep, 2017 by Ronnie
Mr.Orden has come to court one day which the other lawyer I had at the time before Mr.Orden came,keep me locked up for six months Mr.Orden had me free before lunch Mr.Orden is very good lawyer I would recommend him to the world.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Candy
Marcia Murphy Biondo is experienced and professional. She prepped me for just in case purposes and she beat my case in less than 5mins. She’s attentive and aware of the law. She represented me and I didn’t even have to speak. Would hire her everytime!
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09 Apr, 2023 by Kerry
Marcia came recommended by a good friend and I could not recommend her more. She followed up diligently on my case for almost 5 years with success. I'm about to hire her again!
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08 Mar, 2023 by Thierno
Mrs. Marcia Murphy Biondo did very well with my traffic tickets cases. Che is a great attorney, helpful, knowledgeable person. She is a great assistant, I recommend her to everyone who needs attorney.
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21 Jun, 2019 by Jerry
I hired Amy Bellatoni. She helped me write a letter for an application process that was denied with a 30 day explanation period in which to submit a statement. At that time I tried to contact Amy. She does not know how to pick up a phone. It was like squeezing water out of a rock for info. I emailed her for info which took all day back and forth for info that could have been solved in a 5 minute phone call. I have since attained another attorney and was told she should have never let me write the statement on my own. So if you like having communication with your lawyer I would definitely stay away from Amy Bellatoni.
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09 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
To be clear, my review is regarding a consultation with Ms. Bellantoni. I did not retain her services.
Initially, I was very impressed with Ms. Bellantoni's qualifications and even more so after I spoke with her regarding a discrimination issue with my employer. At the time, I filed a discrimination charge with the federal government which is a long process. While the charge was being processed I contacted Ms. Bellantoni. She was very pleasant, knowledgable, and supportive of my side. I emailed her a volume of supporting documents and she reviewed everything and followed up with me about a week later. We spoke at length regarding how she would proceed if I retained her services. Our conversation ended with her telling me that once I received a decision from the federal government, I should let her know, at which point we could proceed with filing a lawsuit. Frankly, she buoyed my confidence in a positive outcome, which is why I was so disappointed when she ignored all of my attempts to follow-up with her months later as previously discussed. I contacted her several times by phone and email and she never responded back. I even expressed confusion to her answering service, saying I already consulted with Ms. Bellantoni and was instructed to contact her once I reached this point. Unfortunately, I was not given any explanation.
While I cannot speak on Ms. Bellantoni's performance as an attorney, I can say that it was completely unprofessional to leave me hanging the way she did. I am not an unreasonable person; I understand lawyers are very busy people and schedules change, and she may have had a legitimate reason to recuse herself from representing me. Nonetheless, all it would have taken her is one minute of her time to respond to any one of my emails or voicemails to say just that and I would of accepted her response and moved on. Instead, ignoring me produced this negative review.
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24 May, 2016 by Wayne
Amy Bellantoni through my personal experience is definately one of the most knowledgable and experienced attorneys I in my entire life have ever been blessed to be in the presence of. Mrs. Bellantoni consistently displays a genuine caring for her clients, and incorporated with her knowedge base and Intelect if retained becomes a dangerous weapon in your arsonal against any adversaries she is facing in regards to your representation. Mrs. Bellantoni will consistantly strive to overcome and achieve absolute victory in every case she accepts without faulter. My name is Wayne, and I am one of Mrs. Bellantoni's clients.
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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.
