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19 Mar, 2024 by Dale
I had an illegal stalking case in 2007, supposed to get probation, Redfield made an agreement with the DA, but the defendant went on the stand for about an hour & ended up screwed over & convicted. I stopped in yesterday & spoke with Redfield, but didn't remember him making an agreement. If she wouldn't have gone on the stand, would have gotten probation. He is retiring at the end of this month & won't take new cases.
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30 Apr, 2022 by Adam
By far the best family law experience I have ever had. I have been battling a custody case for going on 7 years. If we're honest I didn't really have the money to hire an attorney and had been doing it on my own. Well in short I had a couple disgruntled ex gfs and a biased g.a.l. against me. Mr Redfield handled it all very well. I almost felt as if my case was the only case he was handling although I know that wasn't the case. The biggest thing for me was his compassion. He and I talked for hours and hours...all of which he didn't charge me extra money for, as has been my experience with most other lawyers. We discussed a price and he stuck to it. Which was HUGE for me, because if he wanted more money I probably would have been out of luck. In court (which ended up being a 3 day evidentiary hearing) he couldn't have examined/cross examined better. He and I had some different thoughts on the process but I put my trust in him seeing as he's the lawyer. He didn't let me or my son down. In fact he couldn't have done better. If you're dealing with a custody issue choose this guy. You won't regret it. Every man I know feels they don't have a chance in custody court, pick Jared Redfield and you won't feel that way anymore. The cards were against me going in. But he brought to light ALL the facts that really mattered and showed the court what a fathers love truly means. And against the g.a.l. recommendation the judge ruled for me to have primary placement and sole custody. Which is truly what is in my sons best interest. From me and my kids. THANK YOU Jared.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Ryan
From the outset Jared was a true professional. I was entering into what became an extremely difficult divorce case which was further complicated by my loss of job and an opposing attorney that would say and do anything his client wished regardless of facts. Jared will listen and advise accordingly. His calming demeanor helped me when things were at there most difficult. Jared is compassionate and actively cared about me during the whole process. There were hard times for me personally and Jared was there to listen and give comforting expert guidance and a plan forward. After a hard fought case, Jared prevailed and won the case. I cannot imagine having a more compassionate, knowledgeable and professional attorney representing me throughout this whole process.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
This Man takes his job to another level! He is a seeker of truth and fighter towards injustice. I truly believe that my legal rights would have been completely infringed upon if I didn't retain his legal expertise. Thank you, Attorney Stephen Sawyer for your diligence and unmatched professionalism.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Stephen Sawyer was my attorney for a case that had been in the courts for 5 years. As this case was scheduled for trial there was a large ammount of work that had to be done because of the severity of the charges and the fact that the incident was so long ago by the time we reached the trial date. Mr. Sawyer went above and beyond through this entire process. He kept me in the loop and traveled many hours to talk to me in person and to get any evidence that was needed for my defense. My case was dismissed just days before my trial and I know this would not have happened without his diligence. I highly recommend Stephen Sawyer to anyone needing defense. You won't regret it.
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11 Apr, 2022 by Waseem
I just had consultation with mr stephen sawyer and i am super impressed , let me say that he would babysit you if you dont know nothing about criminal laws , very professional , committed , and compassionate, would go outa his way to help you i, i tell you what if you don’t believe me and still thinking then just give him a call for a free consultation and let me know your thoughts , i wish i had that much money i would hire him right away despite of my critical financial situation this guy briefed me like i have paid him already , you wont regret hiring him , i can guarantee you that .he wont give you false hopes and would tell you up front about your case outcome ..
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12 Jan, 2023 by Rebecca
After dealing with many Attorneys in my 47 years of life for various reasons, Atty Oswald has renewed my faith in mankind in regards to attorneys. He was on time, every time, returned every text, email and phone call within a very short time period. He was empathetic to my situation and also supportive to my recovery as I went through it. Any questions I had I could ask and he explained thoroughly so I understood. He took the time, spent the effort, and we were able to achieve the desired results. I was thrilled to have met him and having him as my attorney was a Joy. He is truly a remarkable human being with much humility and integrity. I would rate him above and beyond a five star review. Any person who can be honest with their attorney at all times should pick Nathan Oswald. He is truly Exceptional!
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07 Mar, 2015 by Dianna
I believe Mr. Oswald Is the best attorney you could ever get ,He go's above & beyond for his clients .He has kept me very much informed in what's happening in my Son's case . I know he will do the best for his Client's
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04 Feb, 2015 by Dianna
I very much appreciate all Mr. Oswald has done for My Son And Has Kept Me Very Much Informed ,Since I Have Health Issues That I Can Not Be In The Courtroom For My Son ,I Truly Believe He Is A Amazing Attorney . God Bless
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24 Aug, 2021 by Joy
Russ Kort is a superb defense attorney. In a case in which horrible false allegations were made against a father of three, Mr. Kort succeeded in getting every felony charge dismissed. He did this with persistent attention to detail, thoroughness and punctuality for every proceeding. He showed zeal and commitment. When it comes to describing his good lawyering, I would call Russ Kort a bulldog with ethics. Hire him.
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26 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Klein handled my divorce case flawlessly! Although the person I was divorcing made every attempt to make it most difficult to get it done and get equal custody of my child, Attorney Klein and his staff gave me proper advice throughout the entire process. I now am sitting here enjoying the best outcome I could have hoped for. In the beginning I had MANY questions about how things work and the staff was very helpful and patient with me. Looking back to the beginning of the case I have to give them lots of credit for how they handled all my questions at a time when my emotions running high. I highly recommend attorney Klein to anyone looking for someone who will produce results
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18 Jun, 2014 by Ann
I hired Mr. Klein after my first attorney failed to prepare for a court hearing and left me to pick up the pieces of a decision so wrong it does not bear repeating. Attorney Klein was straightforward from day one. He did not pull punches. He told me, in exact detail, what I had to do and what he was going to do. He never sugar coated that we had an uphill battle, but not for one second did I doubt he was in the battle with me. I don't need my attorney to pat my head and tell me warm fuzzy stories and give me hugs, I have friends for that. I don't need to walk out of my attorney's office feeling like I just had lunch with my best friend. I need to know, without a doubt, the attorney I hired is on my side 100% and is going to fight with me and for me. I have that with Mr. Klein. His professional staff is prompt and courteous; I have never had to wait days/weeks for a returned call. I know they see this stuff every day, but I never have been made to feel it didn't matter. I have nothing, but respect for Mr. Klein and his staff and would readily suggest his practice to anyone. His professional staff is prompt and courteous, I have never had to wait days/weeks for a returned call. I know they see this stuff every day, but I never have been made to feel it didn't matter.
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14 Feb, 2014 by Alexander
When I sought a lawyer for my case, I first spoke to a few highly accredited Ivy League lawyers from Madison, and while I was tempted to go with them, they suggested that it might be worth looking into someone local to make things easier on my end. As my family had used the services of Klein’s firm in the past, I decided to seek the counsel of Klein, who asked for a retainer that was twice the amount quoted by the aforementioned lawyers- with travel fees factored in. Now I do not know exactly what it was that he took issue with in me. If I am simply being sensitive, or if it was the details of my case, my age, my race, or just that he did not like the fact that I asked him questions and took notes at our meetings, but he clearly made an effort to be unprofessional in our dealings. Perhaps Klein’s representation can be summarized in a defining phone conversation we had AFTER I had paid him a retainer. I had never personally hired a lawyer before, so I understandably had a few questions about the financial aspects of my case, as well as wanting to go over a few details of my case with my lawyer. After I asked Klein a couple questions about the difference between out-of-pocket expenses and court-fees, he snapped. “What is this, twenty questions?” he yelled into the phone. “You’re wasting my time!” This was funny, coming from a man for whose time I was paying hundreds of dollars for even in this phone conversation alone. He seemed just barely able to restrain himself from cursing at me as he tried to convince me to drop him as a lawyer after I tried to explain that the retainer I paid for was a fair amount for me, and that I just wanted to make sure I understood both the case, and wanted to go over details on expenses: “If you think X dollars is a lot of money, then just come here, and I’ll cut you a… stinking check for X dollars! Stop wasting my time!” This was followed by a few snide remarks (nothing unexpected) directed at me. “I thought you went to college,” he yelled. “You should be grateful for what I did for you,” he yelled, referring to the deal made with the DA, as if this was some pro-bono case where he did this simply out of the goodness of his heart. I mean, it was not like he was paid for his legal work or anything…Of course, the condescension didn’t stop there. After he was finished with his tirade, I calmly asked why he was angry. His response was that he wasn’t angry, but that I should “Come here and I’ll cut you a check for your lousy X dollars, and you can go represent yourself. If it’s so much money to you, good luck!” This was all because I asked him if a court stenographer (which he recommended for my case) would be covered by the retainer. “No,” was all the answer I got. Wanting to know a bit more, I just asked “Isn’t that considered a legal fee?” He replied briskly: “No,” again offering no elaboration. Not left with too many options due to his monosyllable answers, I asked “Why not”. He simply said “It’s an out of pocket expense.” So I asked him what the difference was, setting him off, because apparently college graduates shouldn’t ask questions, as they should be grateful for overpaid, grumpy lawyers. I tried to politely explain to him that I was only asking him these questions as I simply wanted to clarify details about the use of finances, to which he replied “If a stenographer is so expensive to you, then get a job or something. If it’s a financial problem, then it’s your problem, not mine!” In what situation is it ever okay to be that condescending to a client, and to make implicit insults directed at their intelligence, education, or financial situation? And one final point. If you are looking for a lawyer that can return your emails (which some find crucial in this day and age), forget it. Klein does not respond to emails. In fact, Klein does not even have an email, and refuses to use one. At least that was what he said in our dealings.
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25 May, 2024 by Amanda r
Unprofessional and lacks communication. Would not recommend.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Chris cheesbro
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30 Mar, 2024 by Brooklyn seefeldt
Collected my brothers money & did the bare minimum. Extremely disappointing.
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08 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Travis wanted my the issue resolved then and now. The facts or circumstances were irrelevant. He was egar out to cut a deal grab his check and bolt, while my intentions were opposite. If your looking for a quick deal/offer/plea. Sign here Slattery is your guy.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  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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