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16 Nov, 2024 by Dawn divito
08 Jul, 2024 by Precious harvey
Mr goldin came along and helped get my case up 20,000 extra dollars than what I was offered with someone else! He was very helpful and kept me in the loop the entire way. Very satisfied will be using again if need to
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20 Jun, 2024 by Rosie journagan
Gary Goldin is a great lawyer. He made sure we understood everything about our law suit. He got us more money than we thought we would receive. If you were injured is an automobile accident. You need to call him, he goes beyond the work he needs to win your case.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Meghan
I worked with Joseph Arabbo on a matter I was impacted by in the 36th District Court. He was OUTSTANDING. He took my case on during a busy season, demonstrated complete competence in his work, and I believe he facilitated the best outcome for my case that could be reached. I'm forever indebted and recommend him without hesitance to you if you're in a pinch and need a total pro.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Steven
Excellent service. If I could give 10 stars I would. Highly recommend for traffic and dui cases!!
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29 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Goes above and beyond for his clients makes you feel like your his only priority.
Extremely reliable and knowledgeable!!
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23 Jan, 2015 by Carrie
Where do I start, Markeisha is wonderful! From the moment we met, I knew my son was in good hands. She was very knowledgeable and addressed all our concerns/questions. Her litigation skills are simply AMAZING. After seeing her ask a witness questions during a court hearing, I knew I had made the right decision in hiring her for my son. If you need a fierce litigator who's not afraid to go to battle, call Markeisha.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Ayden kitto
Hanna & Jarbo Law exceeded all my expectations. From the very first consultation, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly attentive to my needs. They took the time to thoroughly explain every step of the process and made me feel confident that my case was in the best hands. If you’re looking for a law firm that truly puts its clients first and delivers exceptional results, I highly recommend Hanna & Jarbo Law.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Steve k
Worked with several attorneys over the years as a real estate investor and Dalen by far has been the only one I will reach out to going forward!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Suler abou
We were in a tough spot with several accounts we deemed uncollectible, and we didn't have high hopes for recovery. However, Hanna & Jarbo Law firm turned the tide for us. Their expertise, persistence, and professional approach made all the difference. They managed to collect on accounts we had almost written off as losses. The communication was excellent throughout the process, and they kept us informed every step of the way.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Marcus j
26 Dec, 2024 by Alexandrina goncearuc
Awful experience,the attorney did not even prepare for the case at all. Do not recommend this office,neither Amber Lee , nor Elimitix office in general, especially for any CDL or driving tickets. Unprofessional, unprepared and non answering when they realized it was their fault for going unprepared to the court. And not talking about some heavy and sofisticated preparation, they went to court fight a CDL ticket without knowing it was a CDL driver. You are better off finding other lawyers in the area, we found some professional ones, but too late after this lawyers’ office fault and non-action.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Keith heigel
Exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful. They helped me get my license back and breathalyzer out of my car faster than I thought possible. Highly recommend.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine troy
I definitely recommend Attorney Vassal Johnson! He is very professional. I was always able to get any question answered quickly. He has a vast knowledge of the law. He handled my son's case & we are very grateful for the outcome. He went above & beyond!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mikeybaldman 1975
Mr Johnson and his staff are very Excellent and deserves🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
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29 Jul, 2024 by Armanda stanton
I Want To Say Thank You Mr. Johnson It Was A Long Process Because Of The Court System But You Did An Outstanding Job And I’m Forever Grateful.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine troy
I definitely recommend Attorney Vassal Johnson! He is very professional. I was always able to get any question answered quickly. He has a vast knowledge of the law. He handled my son's case & we are very grateful for the outcome. He went above & beyond!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mikeybaldman 1975
Mr Johnson and his staff are very Excellent and deserves🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
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29 Jul, 2024 by Armanda stanton
I Want To Say Thank You Mr. Johnson It Was A Long Process Because Of The Court System But You Did An Outstanding Job And I’m Forever Grateful.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Marcus j
07 Feb, 2025 by Brenda
Attorney Nesren Hamoud is professional as well as compassionate. We hired her to evict a family member. Not an easy thing to do. But she made it easier for us. She sticks to the facts in court. She is respectful of her clients situation. Every time we called with questions she answered them promptly. I highly recommend Attorney Nesren Hamoud for landlord and family evictions.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Alexandrina goncearuc
Awful experience,the attorney did not even prepare for the case at all. Do not recommend this office,neither Amber Lee , nor Elimitix office in general, especially for any CDL or driving tickets. Unprofessional, unprepared and non answering when they realized it was their fault for going unprepared to the court. And not talking about some heavy and sofisticated preparation, they went to court fight a CDL ticket without knowing it was a CDL driver. You are better off finding other lawyers in the area, we found some professional ones, but too late after this lawyers’ office fault and non-action.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Leia
She was is the best in town. She helped me with my wording and best advice throughout the case. She is very knowledgeable and work after hours if need to and most importantly keep in contact. She is understanding and get straight to the point no time wasted in court room and you will get great results as she got for me,
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18 Dec, 2024 by Mike
Deborah schlussel did a great job. With my case she got me out there felonies and got them reduced to a misdemeanor with no probation and my case dismissed. I highly recommend Deborah schlussel, criminal lawyer.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Willie
I will recommend Debbie to anybody she is a hard worker and she go for it to make sure you are happy and comfortable with the decision. She is an excellent Attorney. I will give her A
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07 Feb, 2025 by Paul stroud
Was very polite, professional company. Helped my wife get awarded full disability.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Dale mann
I'm still a client I think. They really dragging their feet for me. Been over a year. Social Security continues to contact me for all questions. I'm not really sure what they have done for me. Always call me AFTER I've talked to social security and answered questions.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Kim drew
The Best!
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13 Feb, 2025 by Marcus j
26 Dec, 2024 by Alexandrina goncearuc
Awful experience,the attorney did not even prepare for the case at all. Do not recommend this office,neither Amber Lee , nor Elimitix office in general, especially for any CDL or driving tickets. Unprofessional, unprepared and non answering when they realized it was their fault for going unprepared to the court. And not talking about some heavy and sofisticated preparation, they went to court fight a CDL ticket without knowing it was a CDL driver. You are better off finding other lawyers in the area, we found some professional ones, but too late after this lawyers’ office fault and non-action.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Keith heigel
Exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful. They helped me get my license back and breathalyzer out of my car faster than I thought possible. Highly recommend.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Great service they do what needs to be done to assure that the best outcome is reached
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19 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Rita is one of the most professional lawyer I have met, very empathetic, a good listener and an awesome communicator, she stayed on top of my case, made my journey very smooth and great experience, she updated me constantly and got the job done, definitely I will use her in the future❤️
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30 Apr, 2024 by Margarita aguirre
Hiring an attorney isn’t anyone’s first choice for resolution but sometimes it’s your only choice. It takes time, commitment, being a good listener, being able to interpret the law responsibly, money but most of all, trust. When someone says they stand on their Christian beliefs, it comes with a much greater responsibility. More than words, it’s based on action and integrity; so when you’re searching for the right attorney, that’s what you hope you’re hiring. Of course money is a huge factor, especially during difficult times, which you’re in if you’re in need of an attorney to begin with. So, you invest all that you have in the person/firm representing you, hoping that together, you win your case. I was grateful to think that’s what I had found in Ms. Taylor until I realized that even as an attorney with Christian values, it can be disappointing. I hired Ms. Taylor to appeal my case, not fully understanding what I was really facing. My initial case was already grim, no additional evidence could be entered and it meant that her argument really wasn’t going to be enough but I still held on to hope. We discussed going in front of the judge, as that was her strategy, to put a face with the case, knowing what was at stake. Waiting for over a year felt like a long time as though I was holding my breath, waiting for my turn at truth, waiting to exhale in order to find some long-awaited relief in my journey. Unbeknownst to me, my trial date came and went, only to be notified by my initial attorney who did absolutely nothing to help my case whatsoever. I felt my appeal was my only opportunity for justice. However, the only explanation Ms. Taylor provided was that there must have been a mix up or a mistake. Ms. Taylor said it was a “partial win” because her brief identified an overreach concerning my property. Maybe her brief brought enlightenment to the case but I felt without a trial argument, my opportunity was lost and therefore, I indeed lost my case. How is it that your attorney misses your court date and without explanation? Later, I learned that while waiting for trial, Ms. Taylor was faced with other challenges - scrutiny against her law firm, going into partnership, running for US Senate, teaching and still managing her firm, representing more important cases, as she would sometimes remind me. As a woman with Christian beliefs myself, it was most disheartening at the very end, being spoken to as though I had been guilty all along, as though she never really believed in me or my case. Accountability as a Christian is essential, especially when you commit to your profession by taking another person’s livelihood and trust into your own hands.
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02 Jun, 2017 by Emanuel
I hired Attorney Marable after being charged with CCW in December 2016 facing up to 5 years in prison and becoming a convicted felon. I was referred to her by my bestfriend, who in 2015 used Carla to beat a murder conviction in which she got him a not guilty verdirct. Carla worked on my case none stop and never gave up even after the prosecution denied me any deals after 3 appeals. She continued to keep finding ways to help me and got my felony turned into a regular misdemeanor no jail time. She saved my career and also my family, I highly recommend her !
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09 May, 2017 by Angelic
In 2015 Mrs. Marable saved my son and my life! My son was charged with attempted murder charges among others. I was a wreck! I went off and hire an attorney who charged me $6000 just for retaining but when it came down to work he kept shoving plee offers in our face. I knew I had to let him go when he said NOTHING at the Bond hearing! (I wish I had Mrs. Marable then, but that was the least of our worries). Needless to say I fired him and loss my money . A friend of mine (I call her my angel now) called me and referred Carla Marable and what a blessing she was! She was very professional, straight forward, explained things I didn't understand (patiently), and most importantly listened to us. She showed interest and genuine care for my entire family (still stay in contact with us to see how everyone is doing, TILL THIS DAY!) and she took on that court room like a Pro! By me losing $6000 already on a lazy lawyer, she was VERY patient with me and allowed me to do a payment plan. My son is HOME and doing great! I praise God for sending her to us! Strongly recommend her. Thank you Mrs. Marable!
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31 Jul, 2014 by Willie
Carla Marable is a very trustworthy and on her job type of woman. She is very alert and educational in her field. Back in 2005, I was charged with 2nd degree child abuse. I was looking at seven to fifteen years. With the help of Ms Marable I was sentenced to one year in county jail, but only did eighty eight days and was a free man. Picture having to do fiftten years in prison off an accidental drop... That could of happen to me if she didnt step into my defense. Prosecutors tried to convince the judge that I beat my own daughter head with a steel pipe or hammer. Just ridiculous. She saved me... My life as well, cause I felt hope was gone... Also, my daughter is alive and well. Im glad Ms. Marable was there to represent me. She also did a great job.
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05 Dec, 2024 by William branch
This lawfirm was extremely helpful with our situation. Although they were not able to help us with our case they went above and beyond to help us figure out who could. Highly recommended.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Sharon gavala
"Mr Hamawi is a true professional, an expert in his craft, I cannot thank him enough, and thank you to his staff."
Kind regards,
Cletis Kendrick
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01 Aug, 2024 by Heather palmer
We are so thankful for Rabih and his staff. Linda is very kind and helpful. They did everything in their power to get us prepared for our EUO. We went into our EUO with confidence. Rabih and his staff have gone above and beyond for us and we cannot thank them enough! We highly recommend Rabih and cannot say enough good things about him and his staff. We would not hesitate to hire him again.
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05 Dec, 2024 by William branch
This lawfirm was extremely helpful with our situation. Although they were not able to help us with our case they went above and beyond to help us figure out who could. Highly recommended.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Sharon gavala
"Mr Hamawi is a true professional, an expert in his craft, I cannot thank him enough, and thank you to his staff."
Kind regards,
Cletis Kendrick
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01 Aug, 2024 by Heather palmer
We are so thankful for Rabih and his staff. Linda is very kind and helpful. They did everything in their power to get us prepared for our EUO. We went into our EUO with confidence. Rabih and his staff have gone above and beyond for us and we cannot thank them enough! We highly recommend Rabih and cannot say enough good things about him and his staff. We would not hesitate to hire him again.
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20 Mar, 2019 by Kevin
I have only used 3 attorneys in my whole life and by far Warren was the best. I have personally used Warren twice for DUI's some years ago and he is truly the best.
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01 Jun, 2015 by Emanuel
This attorney was very helpful. I am grateful for the time he devoted to our conversation and the advise given. I am confident moving forward that I have the counsel and the resources that I need.
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13 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I found Jamie through a search through Avvo and I was extremely fortunate. It was an extremely stressful period of my life and Jamie and CLS handled my case with extreme care and discretion. Thanks!
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05 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Jamie Schonberg, I am so forever grateful for what you have done for our family. I would highly recommend you & Criminal Legal Services to anybody with a complicated situation. You made the whole process seem easy and I know it wasn't. Thank you!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Dawn divito
08 Jul, 2024 by Precious harvey
Mr goldin came along and helped get my case up 20,000 extra dollars than what I was offered with someone else! He was very helpful and kept me in the loop the entire way. Very satisfied will be using again if need to
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20 Jun, 2024 by Rosie journagan
Gary Goldin is a great lawyer. He made sure we understood everything about our law suit. He got us more money than we thought we would receive. If you were injured is an automobile accident. You need to call him, he goes beyond the work he needs to win your case.
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03 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
She gave me solid advice, helped me get my head straight and was compelling in Court - she delivered.
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18 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Excellent Lawyer - informative, and attentive to my case. Got me a fair deal, and fought for my best interests. A good lawyer to have by your side.
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25 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
The outcome was much less painful than it could have been. What impressed me most about your representation, was how much you cared about me and my family. You believed in me when others wouldn't.
Thank you for everything!
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23 Aug, 2017 by John
All-around, the best decision I ever made. Attorney Jack Kramer was able to get the results that I needed in my case. He was attentive and accessible when I needed him and put my worries aside.
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17 Nov, 2023 by Rg
Bad experience
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02 Mar, 2023 by Kay ray
Horribly unprofessional. Not sure how they're able to get Google to remove all the bad reviews.
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05 Nov, 2022 by Karen losey
They kill their clients
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3.4
5 Reviews
4.7
249 Reviews
13 Feb, 2025 by Marcus j
26 Dec, 2024 by Alexandrina goncearuc
Awful experience,the attorney did not even prepare for the case at all. Do not recommend this office,neither Amber Lee , nor Elimitix office in general, especially for any CDL or driving tickets. Unprofessional, unprepared and non answering when they realized it was their fault for going unprepared to the court. And not talking about some heavy and sofisticated preparation, they went to court fight a CDL ticket without knowing it was a CDL driver. You are better off finding other lawyers in the area, we found some professional ones, but too late after this lawyers’ office fault and non-action.
Read more
15 Dec, 2024 by Keith heigel
Exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful. They helped me get my license back and breathalyzer out of my car faster than I thought possible. Highly recommend.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Lr
I have had the best experience with The Jason Waechter Law Firm! I have been working with Alexis and she and Jason have gone above and beyond to help me and my husband. We cannot thank them enough for their kindness and prompt answers to our questions. Their customer service is outstanding! I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again and would highly recommend their firm! We sincerely thank you for your help and support!
LR
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31 May, 2024 by Claudio alastra
I was in a motorcycle accident where I hit a pothole and I crashed my bike and broke my foot and thought I was out of luck and I had friends tell me to reach out to a lawyer and I got hooked up with the best one possible that did everything in their power to make sure that I won the most money, and they made sure that they fight to take care of me, and all my medical bills that came along with something that I couldn’t control they really helped me out and change my life so I would definitely recommend them
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09 May, 2024 by Stephanie wilson
I hired jason after my husbands motorcycle accident. I had called three different firms but jason called me back right away late at night to talk to me about things and even met with me in person at the hospital to explain things which made me hire him. Jason went above and beyond expectations. As a wife, I was worried what our future might look like. Jason secured lost wages for my husband and after multiple facilitations endings in a trial, Jason delivered justice with a record breaking verdict. Our family will forever be greatful for Jason and his team and all the hard work they put in.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Mike
Mr. Stearn was great taking care of me and my family during my process.. he answered all my questions, was always great at getting back with me when i left messages.. was on top of everything evolving my case from start to finish.. i would recommend Todd to anyone who needs an injury lawyer..
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21 Mar, 2024 by Dan
Todd did a fine job handling my personal injury matter. His communications were professional and prompt and he did an outstanding job negotiating a difficult circumstance with a number of issues that had to be resolved.
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29 Mar, 2022 by Leah
Hired Todd for a personal injury claim and he did a fantastic job!
I would recommend Todd Stern to anyone who needs aggressive and competent representation.
Thank you Todd Stern
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09 Nov, 2024 by Winner 365
Attorney Hawkins was the best attorney Ive worked with. Excellent professionalism! I would recommend and refer him to anyone I know. He dealt with us with dignity and respect. Couldn’t ask for better. Thank you Attorney Hawkins for your honest service!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Brandy b
Attorney Hawkins was kind enough to consult with me regarding my legal issue. He was patient, he listened to my concerns, and he provided me with options specific to my situation. Everyone in a difficult legal situation deserves to be treated the way Attorney Hawkins treated me. Take your time and find the right attorney. I definitely and highly recommend Atty Hawkins!
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27 Jul, 2024 by Trelly trell
My brother and I appreciate Mr Hawkins and his team on working hard with us on are accident case. We thank you again Mr Hawkins
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05 Dec, 2024 by William branch
This lawfirm was extremely helpful with our situation. Although they were not able to help us with our case they went above and beyond to help us figure out who could. Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Kyle williams
Fresh out of court and couldn't wait to give a review. We had James Huston as our attorney and he was phenomenal. Knew his shit and was straight to the point! I was very happy with the case and how he handled everything would recommend him to anyone and everyone.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Patrick ryall
I had previously sent a review and didn't realize this was here as well. All I can do is sing praises for this very good company and good people. Tracey was my attorney and she was excellent. She never left me at a loss she kept me well informed and I would highly recommend Tracey for anyone who is going through a tragedy of a divorce. God bless them I wish Tracey the very best
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01 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine troy
I definitely recommend Attorney Vassal Johnson! He is very professional. I was always able to get any question answered quickly. He has a vast knowledge of the law. He handled my son's case & we are very grateful for the outcome. He went above & beyond!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mikeybaldman 1975
Mr Johnson and his staff are very Excellent and deserves🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
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29 Jul, 2024 by Armanda stanton
I Want To Say Thank You Mr. Johnson It Was A Long Process Because Of The Court System But You Did An Outstanding Job And I’m Forever Grateful.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
