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01 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
My son was facing a serious misdemeanor charge, and it looked as though there was not a way out. Thaddeus is a genius at negotiating, and he knows the law. My son's charges are deferred for a year with a chance at expungement. We are blessed beyond measure and thankful for his services.
Jessica is a blessing. Thank you both for all of your help, for taking my son's case and for fighting for his freedom. We are eternally grateful. God bless.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I was facing 3 felony charges and when I contacted Mr. Furlong’s office, Jessica was the first one I spoke with. She was absolutely incredible, so nice and friendly, and was able to make me feel better about the situation at hand. Mr. Furlong had delivered on every single thing he said he would do for me, and was able to knock all 3 felonies down to one single misdemeanor and keep me from going to jail. He had given me the absolute best outcome for my situation and I truly can’t thank him and Jessica enough!!
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22 Nov, 2023 by Greg
I cannot recommend Mr. Furlong and his paralegal, Jessica, enough!
I was facing a DUI charge and was at risk of having my security clearance impacted. Not only did they get the charge dismissed, but it is being expunged from my record!
The service and expertise that Furlong and Associates provided was first-rate and gave me peace of mind. I would not hesitate to recommend or hire them again, should the need arise.
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25 Feb, 2020 by N. allan. k
Attorney Spindle is simply an awesome lawyer. He literally went to bat for me on the legal frontier at the Loundoun courthouse. What a day to remember! Knowing that I wouldn't have to see the inside of a jail cell was blessing enough but to go the extra mile and further negotiate with the tough police Officer to reduce pending court charges on me was for lack of a better word phenomenal. Attorney Spindle went from persuading both the Commonwealth attorney, Cop and Judge that a "not guilty" plea was in my best interest accepting all fault to winning the court case for me when the judge, the final authority decided an improper driving infraction was my charge. That was a slam dunk of a court conclusion given I had been charged with reckless driving and an accident. I don't advocate for what I did, in fact I apologized to the judge but to have the blessing of a Spindle will always go a long way. Definitely highly recommend Attorney Spindle's legal brilliance. Was blessed and plan to maintain! Thanks Attorney S for granting a husband and career man a sound opportunity to life.
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30 Jan, 2020 by Mr. blue
Mr. Spindle represented me in a matter that was "unique" to say the least. His former life as a magistrate helped very much and enabled the issue to be resolved in a favorable outcome (the charge is being dismissed). I highly encourage anyone needing an attorney they can trust (there really is such a thing) and one who will work for them, hire Mr. Spindle, you will NOT be disappointed!
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28 Oct, 2019 by Bryan
Mr. Spindle helped me out tremendously. I had a very bad DUI, where the victim was pushing to go to trial and attempt to get me upwards of 30 days jail time. Mr. Spindle was able to get me only 5 days jail time, after a continuation, and with all facts pointing against me. One of the best and would highly recommend.
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01 Sep, 2022 by Tiffany
I retained Ted Butler on the advice of many people in the community and after reading all of his reviews. I needed the best of the best in attorneys while facing my legal battle, and he absolutely was. After my initial consultation with Ted, I knew he was the only choice to represent and navigate me through an exceptionally difficult time and legal process. Divorces are not cheap. Ted found every way possible to mitigate costs while always going above and beyond to achieve the results most favorable to me. He was always honest, straight forward, professional, and extremely kind. His communication with me throughout my entire 17-month process was outstanding. His assistant Deb, and his entire staff are exceptional. I never had to worry about what was happening with my case. He was prompt and responsive at every step of the way despite having a very busy schedule. He managed my expectations with complete honesty and never sold me a story or false reality. I was a difficult client, but he treated me with absolute kindness and compassion and took the time necessary to explain the process to me every step of the way. His reputation in the courtroom and his professionalism are unparalleled. He is the attorney you want on your side and absolutely do not want to face as opposing counsel. His knowledge, experience, and courtroom presence are unmatched. He far exceeded my expectations and achieved outstanding results that I never thought possible at our final trial. There are no words to adequately describe my absolute gratitude for all that he has done for me.
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23 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Ted and his asssistant attorney Amanda P. Blair were amazing on a very challenging custody case. They consistently were approachable, wise and conscientious in their application of decisions for the case and we succeed greatly. Better than I could have imagined. We ended up moving and unfortunately have have had to go back to court and we have had other attorneys which has made me realize even more how great these two were and appreciated.
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13 Nov, 2013 by Jennifer
My divorce took almost 3 years and included such fun items as a retired National Guard officer who refused to work, sued for spousal support, refused to pay child support, had a significant problem with alcoholism, voluntarily unemployed himself to reduce child support payments, and who hired incompetent lawyers. Throughout it all, Mr. Butler was the epitome of calm, cool and collected. He held my hand when it was needed, was a shark in the court room, and got me what I needed in the divorce to ensure my children were taken care of and that I wasn’t taken advantage of.
In a time of uncertainty and chaos that was my life after my ex-husband and I separated, Ted was the one stable person I had working on my side to make sure I didn't make any costly errors in judgment based on emotion instead of logic.
His staff is top notch and worked together so that my costs were minimized…even when my ex-husband tried to do everything in his power to run up my legal bills.
Ted has my undying gratitude for making a thoroughly awful time in my life bearable. If you need a divorce attorney who shows his (very, very sharp) teeth when required, and is extremely knowledgeable about the Stafford, VA court system and the divorce process – Ted Butler is definitely your man.
If you would like to talk to me for a reference, I would be more than happy to do so. You can contact Ted's office and he can give you my contact information.
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04 May, 2023 by Cha
I am incredibly lucky to have found Martha Norton. She tirelessly worked to help me through a very difficult custody situation.
Her professionalism, determination, and compassion made me feel secure. With Ms. Norton as my lawyer, I know that I have someone who is willing to help even when the case is very complicated. I am also always so blown away by her quick-thinking in the courtroom!
She is a my personal hero for stepping up and helping me and my family. Thank you!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.2
24 Reviews
18 Jul, 2024 by Christian erazo-juarez
Mr.Stone represented me for a case that he was able to get dismissed. courts and everyone working there respect him and his work from what I saw and he equally showed his respect for his line of work. Before entering the court we were able to even get to know each other and with my experience in meeting different lawyered for different reasons that to me was not only very comforting but assuring that I was in good hands. His advice was very insightful and very much cleared some clouds helping me move forward with what I have going on I am very grateful and I highly recommend his services. His office was very helpful and great with communication. You cannot go wrong with William & Stone PC and if you have the fortunate pleasure of being represented by Mr.Stone, rest assured you are in good hands.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Jessica oliver
I had hired this firm as I was having issues with my previous lawyer being in the same county with others as it seemed as not fighting for my rights but as a tool for other cases. My issue with this law firm are the following and I highly state those needing help review and verify.
1. I hired a service to be done. My lawyer from firm left during court. For what reason, couldnt tell you. Comes to find out it wasn't done and my previous lawyer has to step in and handle the rest of my case. Which did not make the judge to happy and caused confusion on who my lawyer was. Thank God I still had legal representation, unfortunately not who I paid to do so.
2. The person that worked the office last year would send invoice. Apparently they left, so when I found out I had not received an email. I reached out via email. Well apparently I got a response, but the email went to junk mail.
3. No I am in a position where email is my best form of contact or mail. I find out literally 2 days. That the firm sent a bill for less than $500 to a collection agency. Whi didn't not contact me. But only to notify me that I had a court date. Which I obviously could not attend given how far I am.
4. When I reached out to the law firm it took them days to respond and provide no help.
I would ensure if you need legal help do your homework and make sure you lawyer has your back and will stay until is no longer need. You will still have to pay for there time and hope the send you an email every month for your invoices. If not your screwed for there lack of communication.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Nolan webb
I would not recommend this firm if you want to get anything done. My lawyer was Brooke and she was always unavailable for talking. But would send emails for $75 a piece. It took multiple messages to them for them to file anything on my behalf. She never goes to bat for you in court. Let’s everyone else just decide how it’s gonna go. Then sends a bill a week later for her travel Time. Do yourself a favor and pay for a better lawyer.
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16 Feb, 2025 by Greg plaster
03 Feb, 2025 by Logan peterson
I cannot express enough gratitude for this law firm and Brittany Carper for the role as the guardian ad litem in our custody case. From the very beginning, it was clear that she genuinely cared about the well-being of my child and took her responsibility seriously. She was thorough, compassionate, and truly invested in understanding the full picture to make the best recommendations.
Throughout the process, Brittany remained professional, fair, and dedicated to ensuring my child’s best interests were at the center of every decision. Her ability to listen, communicate effectively, and navigate sensitive matters with care made all the difference. It was clear she wasn’t just doing a job—she was advocating for what was right.
If you’re looking for a guardian ad litem or custody laywer who is both compassionate and committed to the children she represents, I highly recommend Brittany Carper. I am incredibly grateful for her work and the positive impact she has had on my child’s life.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Brandon white
I do not understand how two different people, from the same law firm, with the same access to information, come up with such a drastic difference of opinion, other than personal bias.
In 2019 Ms. Carper recommended that I have sole legal custody and that mom be on supervised visitation, and in 2022 when my daughter finally got that stability, my daughter thrived. When Ms. Dillon took over as GAL for the appeal that was going on, she pushed for my daughter to go back to her mother, and if I understood her recommendations correctly, that Mom have sole legal custody.
And I done believe that recommendation was based on what was best for my child, but was made because Ms. Dillon doesn't want to admit that she has made bad calls that have favored the mother over what was best for my daughter.
I feel like it doesn't matter what I say though, as It is going to be ignored, and blown off as a father who is just mad because the GAL didn't side with him, but I am at the point where I am beyond frustrated and angry at the way Ms. Dillon.
But I am not mad because the GAL didn't side with me, I'm mad because Ms. Dillon has continuously pushed me in to agreeing to orders, and then held it against me that I followed those orders. She continuously ignored anything that didn't fit with her narrative of events, including the observations of Doctor's and counselors. and she even made her own observations about how the mother was negatively impacting my relationship with my daughter, and then recommended the mother have custody so that she could facilitate resolving those issues. I feel like Ms. Dillon has used her "authority" to retaliate against me for all the times i have pointed out that her plan of putting my child back with her mother isn't working, that she was being deceived by the mother, and that she was making assessments about my parenting style and mental health that she was in no way qualified to make.
I have felt like Ms. Dillon has had a bias in favor of my child's mother since she came onto the case. And when I walked out of court in January and found out that one of the mother's witness went to the same church and Ms. Dillon, granted they hadn't seen each other in a while, I it only furthered my concerns about her bias towards in father of my child's mother.
I don't believe that Ms. Dillon has the best interest of my daughter in mind when she makes recommendations on custody or visitation.
I love my daughter, and I have fought for 13 years to be a part of her life and keep her safe from her mother's neglect and abuse. And for 5 years I thought I had done that, then a year ago Ms. Dillon made recommendations for my daughter to go back to her mother, and was celebrating with her mother in her accomplishment, since then exactly what I said would happen has happened and everything has gone downhill. My daughter's mental health has plummeted since Ms. Dillon made the recommendations for a change in custody so that my child’s mother could pull my child out of a residential treatment facility AGAINST the advice of her long term counselors.
I am an Army veteran, with a long history of service to my community and nation, with no history of drug or alcohol abuse, or any other factor that would warrant her recommendations to keep my child away from me for almost a year. I have an MBA, PMP, a stable career with a TS clearance, and a supporting family where my daughter thrived. And my name has been drug through the mud because I have wanted to see my daughter succeed in life, and wouldn’t blindly agree for my daughter to go back to her mother, for no other reason than that’s what she wanted to do because her mother would let her do almost anything she wanted.
What has happened to my daughter is a tragedy, and is the reason why no one actually trust the "system" that is supposedly in place to help them. I would not trust anyone from this law firm as a GAL.
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16 Feb, 2025 by Greg plaster
03 Feb, 2025 by Logan peterson
I cannot express enough gratitude for this law firm and Brittany Carper for the role as the guardian ad litem in our custody case. From the very beginning, it was clear that she genuinely cared about the well-being of my child and took her responsibility seriously. She was thorough, compassionate, and truly invested in understanding the full picture to make the best recommendations.
Throughout the process, Brittany remained professional, fair, and dedicated to ensuring my child’s best interests were at the center of every decision. Her ability to listen, communicate effectively, and navigate sensitive matters with care made all the difference. It was clear she wasn’t just doing a job—she was advocating for what was right.
If you’re looking for a guardian ad litem or custody laywer who is both compassionate and committed to the children she represents, I highly recommend Brittany Carper. I am incredibly grateful for her work and the positive impact she has had on my child’s life.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Brandon white
I do not understand how two different people, from the same law firm, with the same access to information, come up with such a drastic difference of opinion, other than personal bias.
In 2019 Ms. Carper recommended that I have sole legal custody and that mom be on supervised visitation, and in 2022 when my daughter finally got that stability, my daughter thrived. When Ms. Dillon took over as GAL for the appeal that was going on, she pushed for my daughter to go back to her mother, and if I understood her recommendations correctly, that Mom have sole legal custody.
And I done believe that recommendation was based on what was best for my child, but was made because Ms. Dillon doesn't want to admit that she has made bad calls that have favored the mother over what was best for my daughter.
I feel like it doesn't matter what I say though, as It is going to be ignored, and blown off as a father who is just mad because the GAL didn't side with him, but I am at the point where I am beyond frustrated and angry at the way Ms. Dillon.
But I am not mad because the GAL didn't side with me, I'm mad because Ms. Dillon has continuously pushed me in to agreeing to orders, and then held it against me that I followed those orders. She continuously ignored anything that didn't fit with her narrative of events, including the observations of Doctor's and counselors. and she even made her own observations about how the mother was negatively impacting my relationship with my daughter, and then recommended the mother have custody so that she could facilitate resolving those issues. I feel like Ms. Dillon has used her "authority" to retaliate against me for all the times i have pointed out that her plan of putting my child back with her mother isn't working, that she was being deceived by the mother, and that she was making assessments about my parenting style and mental health that she was in no way qualified to make.
I have felt like Ms. Dillon has had a bias in favor of my child's mother since she came onto the case. And when I walked out of court in January and found out that one of the mother's witness went to the same church and Ms. Dillon, granted they hadn't seen each other in a while, I it only furthered my concerns about her bias towards in father of my child's mother.
I don't believe that Ms. Dillon has the best interest of my daughter in mind when she makes recommendations on custody or visitation.
I love my daughter, and I have fought for 13 years to be a part of her life and keep her safe from her mother's neglect and abuse. And for 5 years I thought I had done that, then a year ago Ms. Dillon made recommendations for my daughter to go back to her mother, and was celebrating with her mother in her accomplishment, since then exactly what I said would happen has happened and everything has gone downhill. My daughter's mental health has plummeted since Ms. Dillon made the recommendations for a change in custody so that my child’s mother could pull my child out of a residential treatment facility AGAINST the advice of her long term counselors.
I am an Army veteran, with a long history of service to my community and nation, with no history of drug or alcohol abuse, or any other factor that would warrant her recommendations to keep my child away from me for almost a year. I have an MBA, PMP, a stable career with a TS clearance, and a supporting family where my daughter thrived. And my name has been drug through the mud because I have wanted to see my daughter succeed in life, and wouldn’t blindly agree for my daughter to go back to her mother, for no other reason than that’s what she wanted to do because her mother would let her do almost anything she wanted.
What has happened to my daughter is a tragedy, and is the reason why no one actually trust the "system" that is supposedly in place to help them. I would not trust anyone from this law firm as a GAL.
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Christian erazo-juarez
Mr.Stone represented me for a case that he was able to get dismissed. courts and everyone working there respect him and his work from what I saw and he equally showed his respect for his line of work. Before entering the court we were able to even get to know each other and with my experience in meeting different lawyered for different reasons that to me was not only very comforting but assuring that I was in good hands. His advice was very insightful and very much cleared some clouds helping me move forward with what I have going on I am very grateful and I highly recommend his services. His office was very helpful and great with communication. You cannot go wrong with William & Stone PC and if you have the fortunate pleasure of being represented by Mr.Stone, rest assured you are in good hands.
Read more
30 Apr, 2024 by Jessica oliver
I had hired this firm as I was having issues with my previous lawyer being in the same county with others as it seemed as not fighting for my rights but as a tool for other cases. My issue with this law firm are the following and I highly state those needing help review and verify.
1. I hired a service to be done. My lawyer from firm left during court. For what reason, couldnt tell you. Comes to find out it wasn't done and my previous lawyer has to step in and handle the rest of my case. Which did not make the judge to happy and caused confusion on who my lawyer was. Thank God I still had legal representation, unfortunately not who I paid to do so.
2. The person that worked the office last year would send invoice. Apparently they left, so when I found out I had not received an email. I reached out via email. Well apparently I got a response, but the email went to junk mail.
3. No I am in a position where email is my best form of contact or mail. I find out literally 2 days. That the firm sent a bill for less than $500 to a collection agency. Whi didn't not contact me. But only to notify me that I had a court date. Which I obviously could not attend given how far I am.
4. When I reached out to the law firm it took them days to respond and provide no help.
I would ensure if you need legal help do your homework and make sure you lawyer has your back and will stay until is no longer need. You will still have to pay for there time and hope the send you an email every month for your invoices. If not your screwed for there lack of communication.
Read more
09 Apr, 2024 by Nolan webb
I would not recommend this firm if you want to get anything done. My lawyer was Brooke and she was always unavailable for talking. But would send emails for $75 a piece. It took multiple messages to them for them to file anything on my behalf. She never goes to bat for you in court. Let’s everyone else just decide how it’s gonna go. Then sends a bill a week later for her travel Time. Do yourself a favor and pay for a better lawyer.
Read more
16 Feb, 2025 by Greg plaster
03 Feb, 2025 by Logan peterson
I cannot express enough gratitude for this law firm and Brittany Carper for the role as the guardian ad litem in our custody case. From the very beginning, it was clear that she genuinely cared about the well-being of my child and took her responsibility seriously. She was thorough, compassionate, and truly invested in understanding the full picture to make the best recommendations.
Throughout the process, Brittany remained professional, fair, and dedicated to ensuring my child’s best interests were at the center of every decision. Her ability to listen, communicate effectively, and navigate sensitive matters with care made all the difference. It was clear she wasn’t just doing a job—she was advocating for what was right.
If you’re looking for a guardian ad litem or custody laywer who is both compassionate and committed to the children she represents, I highly recommend Brittany Carper. I am incredibly grateful for her work and the positive impact she has had on my child’s life.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Brandon white
I do not understand how two different people, from the same law firm, with the same access to information, come up with such a drastic difference of opinion, other than personal bias.
In 2019 Ms. Carper recommended that I have sole legal custody and that mom be on supervised visitation, and in 2022 when my daughter finally got that stability, my daughter thrived. When Ms. Dillon took over as GAL for the appeal that was going on, she pushed for my daughter to go back to her mother, and if I understood her recommendations correctly, that Mom have sole legal custody.
And I done believe that recommendation was based on what was best for my child, but was made because Ms. Dillon doesn't want to admit that she has made bad calls that have favored the mother over what was best for my daughter.
I feel like it doesn't matter what I say though, as It is going to be ignored, and blown off as a father who is just mad because the GAL didn't side with him, but I am at the point where I am beyond frustrated and angry at the way Ms. Dillon.
But I am not mad because the GAL didn't side with me, I'm mad because Ms. Dillon has continuously pushed me in to agreeing to orders, and then held it against me that I followed those orders. She continuously ignored anything that didn't fit with her narrative of events, including the observations of Doctor's and counselors. and she even made her own observations about how the mother was negatively impacting my relationship with my daughter, and then recommended the mother have custody so that she could facilitate resolving those issues. I feel like Ms. Dillon has used her "authority" to retaliate against me for all the times i have pointed out that her plan of putting my child back with her mother isn't working, that she was being deceived by the mother, and that she was making assessments about my parenting style and mental health that she was in no way qualified to make.
I have felt like Ms. Dillon has had a bias in favor of my child's mother since she came onto the case. And when I walked out of court in January and found out that one of the mother's witness went to the same church and Ms. Dillon, granted they hadn't seen each other in a while, I it only furthered my concerns about her bias towards in father of my child's mother.
I don't believe that Ms. Dillon has the best interest of my daughter in mind when she makes recommendations on custody or visitation.
I love my daughter, and I have fought for 13 years to be a part of her life and keep her safe from her mother's neglect and abuse. And for 5 years I thought I had done that, then a year ago Ms. Dillon made recommendations for my daughter to go back to her mother, and was celebrating with her mother in her accomplishment, since then exactly what I said would happen has happened and everything has gone downhill. My daughter's mental health has plummeted since Ms. Dillon made the recommendations for a change in custody so that my child’s mother could pull my child out of a residential treatment facility AGAINST the advice of her long term counselors.
I am an Army veteran, with a long history of service to my community and nation, with no history of drug or alcohol abuse, or any other factor that would warrant her recommendations to keep my child away from me for almost a year. I have an MBA, PMP, a stable career with a TS clearance, and a supporting family where my daughter thrived. And my name has been drug through the mud because I have wanted to see my daughter succeed in life, and wouldn’t blindly agree for my daughter to go back to her mother, for no other reason than that’s what she wanted to do because her mother would let her do almost anything she wanted.
What has happened to my daughter is a tragedy, and is the reason why no one actually trust the "system" that is supposedly in place to help them. I would not trust anyone from this law firm as a GAL.
Read more
15 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Had a consultation. They suggested I do some leg work before moving forward, which I did. Then I tried to set up a meeting to continue the process. After being ghosted for two weeks, one of the "Partners" took the phone call and stated they were refusing to represent me with a very rude and condescending attitude.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Tariq
HORRIBLE LAWYER ! If you like hiring a Lawyer that looks and acts expensive Jason pelt is your guy, "this is easy" was his words, but lost the case and all he had to say was "its a tough day at the court" and walked away, costing us 70k + in expense. Absolutely HORRIBLE LAWYER, & his charges are the worsts. Doesn’t care about his clients, no preparation whatsoever, the money you have for him is the only thing that really matters, you will LOSE with Norton Pelt, PLC
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10 Jan, 2022 by Heather
Attorney Pelt failed to represent me for my case...in fact it seemed as if he was representing the other party...did absolutely nothing he promised...and now it's been almost 2 months and I'm still waiting for my settlement check...I would not recommend him to anyone hiring him was a complete loss and waste of time
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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.
