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Thomas John Jones Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Scranton, PA with 10 reviews
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28,65
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4.2/5
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4.2
10 Reviews
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad
I’ve used Tom Jones for almost 15 years in both personal and business matters. Tom is an extremely knowledgeable attorney and has always performed above my expectations. I highly recommend him for any legal issues.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jessica
14 years ago I called Tom to help me with custory of my then infant child. I was young and Tom helped me for 3 years...we won multiple times... Last Summer i reached out to Tom to help me with my same child but with Adoption! My husband who has raised my son for 13 years was going to adopt my son! I could send an email anytime during the day and Tom would respond back immediately! He also has a wonderful paralegal named Jillian who was been amazing to work with. THIS PAST MONTH TOM HELPED MAKE THIS ADOPTION HAPPEN! Thank you Tom and Jillian for going above and beyond to help!
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09 Mar, 2023 by Gretchen
Attorney Tom Jones is so professional , empathetic, and efficient. Have had the privilege of him helping me through many years. My child needed him, buying of real estate, presently will and more! I would not call on anyone else. His family, including his father are pillars in our community!
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Robert Jeremy Levant, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 19 reviews
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27,78
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4.2/5
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3.3
4 Reviews
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4.4
15 Reviews
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26 Mar, 2023 by Karen ruggiero
Can't say enough about attorney Mike Foley he handled my workman's comp case in 1993 one my case the insurance company still tries everything not to pay my doctor bills and my treatments for workman's comp Mike Foley went above and beyond to keep me on my workman's comp so my treatments weren't interrupted I highly recommend attorney Mike Foley
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27 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
We hired Lavant and were impressed by his record from Philadelphia, he made it sound like we had an open and shut case. He said we could not get a better defense in Pa. He had us pay extra for 2 investigators that produced nothing. He talked about how he was so much smarter than the district attorney and there was a reason they were where they are. In the beginning he was very involved with us and slowly lost interest in our case. At the end we could rarely get a return call or text from him. When we went to trial he didn’t seem to have any preparation for cross examination and absolutely no closing argument, I was shocked. His client is doing many years for a felony that should have been a misdemeanor. We are now under appeal with a good attorney. Do not hire this attorney!
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17 Sep, 2022 by Nevaeh rosencrance
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James Robert Elliott, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 44 reviews
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27,18
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4.4/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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4.5
43 Reviews
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kym balthazar fetsko
I reached out to Attorney Santomauro for a consultation, and I was impressed by his promptness and thoroughness. He took the time to answer all of my questions clearly and comprehensively. While I hope I'll never need his services, I feel confident that if I do, I'll be in excellent hands. Highly recommend!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Patricia price
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24 Jul, 2024 by Kandi dee
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Marjorie D. Barlow, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Scranton, PA with 10 reviews
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27,05
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3.9/5
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5.0
2 Reviews
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3.6
8 Reviews
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25 Sep, 2024 by Honest john
Going back a number of years ago my wife and I consulted with Marjorie about possibly filing a bankruptcy. At the consultation Marjorie happily Accepted a check for A retainer of over a $1000 from us. The only reason we had that money was from a tax return. Shortly after we decided not to go through with the bankruptcy and asked for the refund. Let me add, There were no papers filled out and no paperwork filed for a bankruptcy. No work on her part was rendered at any time. Her assistant acted as if she knew nothing about it so I provided them with a copy of the cashed check. I followed up with the assistant/secretary many times leaving voicemail messages and talking to them directly over the phone. I was always given the run around that they had to discuss it with Marjorie. They literally had a copy of the cash check that they cashed. What more would they possibly need to prove they owed it to us. After over a year of getting the run around and being ignored we finally gave up. She took the money, Never provided any services for it And refused to acknowledge us. She is a piece of garbage in my eyes and not worth the space she takes up or the money she steals. Literally taking Over a $1000 from someone who is SO down and out that they are considering bankruptcy. What a despicable human being. After looking through the reviews it appears that we were not the only victims.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Karen pasqualicchio
Just met with her for an estate. She was very good and gave us a step by step plan.
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05 Mar, 2023 by Eric t
Marjorie is an amazing Attorney and person. She's very direct and forthcoming with her thoughts and ideas and doesn't pull any punches. I appreciate all that's she's done for my friends and my family, and consider her a dear friend.
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Donald William Jensen, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Scranton, PA with 15 reviews
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26,19
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4.4/5
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4.4
15 Reviews
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26 Mar, 2023 by Karen ruggiero
Can't say enough about attorney Mike Foley he handled my workman's comp case in 1993 one my case the insurance company still tries everything not to pay my doctor bills and my treatments for workman's comp Mike Foley went above and beyond to keep me on my workman's comp so my treatments weren't interrupted I highly recommend attorney Mike Foley
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17 Sep, 2022 by Nevaeh rosencrance
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01 Feb, 2022 by Margaret hunter
I strongly recommend The Foley law firm to anyone in need of legal assistance. Tom Jr and the Foley team, are exemplary in every aspect of law and client care.  Throughout a 5 year battle with the defendants (which was no fault at all to Foley law firm) Mike and his Father Tom jr Kevin, Laura and Michelle maintained strong communication and never left me in the dark.  The Foley law firm is very transparent and will go above and beyond by any means necessary to ensure you are taken care of.  They not only won my case, but they were able to get me over $1M! If I ever need legal assistance in the future, Foley Law Firm is the only law firm I will contact and would implore anyone else, to do the same.
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John Ralph Williams Jr., experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 8 reviews
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24,19
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4.0/5
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4.0
8 Reviews
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03 Apr, 2023 by Nzinga callendar
Mr.Willams was great for my case very down to earth guy helped me get all 3 of my kids back as a black woman he knew just how to handle my case he was calm not to expensive and very well put together .. this is not a scam review my name is Nzinga callendar my case was all over the news n the news lied on me yet no matter what I still got custody n im blessed thanks to this man hire him he’s great for family custody
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21 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
John was always there for me! My divorce went quickly and smoothly. He made this difficult process so much easier, I couldn't be happier. Very knowledgeable and dedicated!
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20 Sep, 2016 by Marie
He could not have delayed my case anymore than he did. I could never get in touch with him. But still charged me money.
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Robert T. Gownley Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Scranton, PA with 28 reviews
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21,55
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4.1/5
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4.1
28 Reviews
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13 Jan, 2025 by Nichole harrison
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29 Jul, 2024 by Catherine berardelli
Please DO Not have John Mascelli represent you! Extremely greedy!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Cathy berardelli
John Masselli received $7,200 for representing me. He then sent me a bill for $426.00 stating I owe him for a ride to Wilkes-Barre. He never told me he was charging me. Some attorney's are extremely greedy. Becareful who represents you.
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Sandra Stepkovitch, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 15 reviews
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19,16
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2.8/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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4.7
14 Reviews
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20 Feb, 2024 by Kevin gonzalez
Great communication really go above and beyond for his clients
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13 Dec, 2023 by Simon r lipchus 3rd
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12 Jul, 2023 by Ayalissa rivera
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Jillian Kochis, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 2 reviews
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18,22
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3.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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5.0
1 Reviews
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15 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Kochis is unprofessional. She ignores clients and never calls one back
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06 Mar, 2021 by Iris pagan
Very professional
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Ernest D. Preate Jr., experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 4 reviews
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16,33
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3.0/5
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3.0
4 Reviews
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21 Jul, 2023 by Kelly
Was truly disappointed in regards to how he handled things with my husband’s federal white collar case. His lack of knowledge of the changes with the First Steps Act of 2018. Making me feel that my concerns were not priority, and not explaining why they should or shouldn’t be.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Diane
Ernie Preate is in my experience the best prosecutor Lackawanna county ever had. He put Joseph Aulisio in jail for life. He was very professional and made sure he took Mr. Allison off the streets for life. My family is very happy and stands by him for every thing he has done for us.
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29 Mar, 2018 by Jennifer
Upon consulting Mr. Preate regarding allegations made against my 11 year old son - he eased all my worries and gave our family the confidence we needed to proceed accordingly. We hired him and breathed a sigh of relief knowing we had him on our side. The case is still on going however every step of the way he has proven to be the perfect fit for our case. He has shown us that he is willing to fight for my son just as hard (if not harder) than I ever could. Extremely intelligent and a straight shooter. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good criminal defense attorney.
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Matthew Thomas Comerford, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 2 reviews
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16,29
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3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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07 May, 2019 by Johanna
Okay turns out Matt isn’t reliable and actually is the worst I’ve ever had. He knows all the right things to say to string u along but wen it comes down to it, he’s only about money and will screw u at trial by not showing up. This guy actually had the balls to offer to help me pro-bono w/custody of my 2 yr old baby girl but never showed up to court on the day trial was starting. If I wasn’t able to come to an agreement w/my ex that day I could have lost custody of my child b/c of this twatwaffle atty Matt. How r u gonna offer to help me n then leave me hanging high n dry. I didn’t ask for his crap representation. U can’t just go around messing w/ ppls lives like that. Especially wen kids r involved. That’s just the lowest of the low. IF I COULD HAVE GIVEN HIM 0 STARS, I WOULD HAVE...
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13 Aug, 2018 by Chris
I retained him for driving on a DUI suspended license, (Even tho I was found not-guilty on said DUI) but nevertheless I wondered into his office and retained him because he's known as a fighter in mostly the federal arena so he's not to worried about stepping on MDJ's toes he got the case tossed on a bad service, well he sent an associate to handle his dirty work which was my only issue with his services but he was probley busy trying to save some other poor soul. I'd recommend him.
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Paul Joseph Walker, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Scranton, PA with 4 reviews
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12,69
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2.2/5
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2.2
4 Reviews
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13 May, 2017 by Tom, scrantonville.com
Best stated to me by a fifty year veteran lawyer and principle owner of his Philadelphia law firm. " I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYONE IN MY LIFETIME, AS MISREPRESENTED AS YOU"
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20 Nov, 2014 by Ismael retamar
Paul walker is the best lawyer for any criminal case!! I say that from facts ,Paul has represented me two time and believe me when I tell u that I was happy with the resource. Paul take time out to hear his clients and he fights for what is right. a men who like to get to the point, may seem serious or got somewhere else to be, but that's only because he has a strong judge of character and have the best interest of his clients!! Paul will get the best deals for his clients or take it to trial he is not scare to tell the D.A like it is, he's not with selling out his clients he knows the law like he knows the back of his hands he doesn't have to come to court in a expensive tuxedo to explore his royalty for his knowledge of the law says it all !! I know every client is entitled to his own opinion however I read one client review he stating that Paul seem like he didn't have time for him but to me it seem like he was looking for someone to hold his hands if Paul did that with everyone he wont have time to keep his clients out of jail
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24 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I could not have made worse choice than to hire this attorney. He was rude, unprofessional, and made it seem like he had somewhere better to be every time I spoke to him, even when we were in court. He is obviously smart, but lazy. He should have retired long ago. He doesn't care in the least how his cases turn out, only that he gets paid for his time. I found out AFTER my case that he had mislead me about the seriousness of the consequences I faced. He didn't lie but he left huge steps out of his 'explanation' of what he had me agree to in court, and I'll have to deal with that for the rest of my life. Do not trust this man with your future. You will be the one paying the price, long after he has forgotten your name.
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Ruth Lenahan, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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12,00
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0.0/5
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Kim Ann Giombetti, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Scranton, PA with 7 reviews
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11,06
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2.4/5
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2.4
7 Reviews
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12 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I have worked with Kim on 2 other cases and I was blessed to have found her beyond the scopes of just paper and she made sure things were done right and fair
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07 Apr, 2021 by Yvonne worman
I contacted this attorney to advise her that my nephew is potentially the father of a child she represents. She laughed at us, ignored our request for Dna, and looked the other way. She continued to try and advocate for the adoption of child in question out, against legal protocol. She states she will not cooperate and will fight claims, even though no legal father has been established in this case. The child had blood relatives willing to step forward and she ignores the legal rights of the potential father, and “doesn’t recall” a phone conversation stating potential paternity.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Always yelling at me, took advantage of the fact I'm addicted to drugs and accuses me of being high when I'm not ( even in COURT!!!) says she is on my side and wants to help me but lies to me and fights against me in every way possible and took my visits away because i brought my significant other around took complete advantage of my age and situation and had sign papers she only expanded 10% of for what I believe is her own benefit and liedALLOT shhe talks to me like in a drug addicted piece of scumand talks about me in that manner and make sly insulting comments constantly I asked if I had any other options she said no then scared me into signing something I didnt want to I feel taken advantage of and wish I could take back this whole nightmare
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Shane Scanlon, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Lawrence J. Moran, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Michael John Pisanchyn, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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Paul R. Mazzoni, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Scranton, PA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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25 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Mazzoni is not someone that I would do business with for the following reasons. The man did not do any preparation for the meeting that I drove an hour and a half to and proceeded to give me indirect answers to any of my questions. He repeated himself on numerous points and went off topic with many tangents. He was not up front with any fees nor took the time to explain what process was involved . Having a concern of my time and resources, I wanted a legitimate estimate and I would never trust someone who was tight lipped on that from the start. Get someone who wants to invest the time in your case because this man will just give you a song and a dance.
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Jonathan Allen Lang, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Ellen Granahan, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Paul P Ackourey, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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Joseph Gardner Price, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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Judith Gardner Price, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Kimberly Karen Moraski, experienced Criminal Defense, Insurance attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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William C. Urbanski, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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James Alan Kilpatrick, experienced Criminal Defense, Debt Collection attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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Timothy Corbett, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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Thomas J. Nolan, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Carl J. Burkel Poveromo, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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Marsha Lee Albright, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Scranton, PA with 0 reviews
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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:

  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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