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01 Jan, 2025 by Taia benejan (lastamazon)
Choosing the right lawyer is obviously a very crucial step in such a weighted circumstance and Brian C Jordon absolutely has been the best choice. Brian was the consummate professional, extremely communicative and accessible. Brian found the very best options and walked us through our choices and help us to arrive at the best choice for our situation. Brian was well versed in all letters of the law and has positive professional relationships with everyone throughout the legal process to also help streamline getting to our goal. Brian was very personable and had a good energy that showed a great deal of compassion. Those personal touches are often missed in these type of exchanges but Brian was extremely thorough and dotted every "i" and crossed every "t"! We felt confident in Brian and when dealing with the stress and confusion of any legal matter, having a legal soldier on your team is definitely a relief and a benefit. I fully recommend Brian as an attorney you can trust with your life or the life of your loved one. Prices were fair and customary based on what other attorneys charge for the same predicament.
Legal fees/attorneys are expensive, freedom isn't really free but I felt like it was money well spent, that's important too, especially in these inflated and difficult economic times. Brian ticked all the right boxes! We are extremely GRATEFUL for all of his service and support
I think he should run for Governor or something political and he'd have our vote!
Additionally, but maybe less important, he was the best dressed lawyer in court, great style and a great added representation for us and our case. It was a comfort that his self representation was a measurement of how he'd represent us.
It was important for us to leave an honest and forthright review because if you have an issue, you're going to need Brian. He's one of the good guys!
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01 Jan, 2025 by Nash harman
Very helpful through the whole process help me out a lot .
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24 Dec, 2024 by John hughes
Brian Delivered
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14 Mar, 2023 by Lucianna coke
If you need a lawyer for an automobile accident, personal injury, or other legal issue, please contact Michael Foley. He will not only fight for you until you win, but he will also make you feel like a family member. He is determined, knowledgeable, dedicated, and above all, compassionate. He goes above and beyond protocol to communicate with you every step of the journey. Another impressive trait about Mr. Foley is how amazingly well he works with young people. My son was 17 when he met in his tragic auto accident; Mr. Foley has not just been his attorney for the past four years, but also a mentor that consistently helps my son deal with his trauma.
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28 Jun, 2020 by Dottie konopatski
June 24, 2020
My husband and I met and hired Michael Foley on the spot 30 years ago. He is totally knowledgeable, professional, dedicated to winning your case, and very easy to talk with. He is awesome in the courtroom, very impressive! He cares about family and will go above and beyond for you. If you have a question he doesn't know the answer to, and actually that would be extremely rare, he'd find the answer quickly for you. Call him - if he's not in, he'll return your call ASAP. He'll make himself available for whenever you need him. Trust me, you cannot go wrong with Michael Foley. I've been a gratified client for 30 years!
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12 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Walters was courteous and attentive to my legal needs. She knew exactly what needed to get done. She also didn't break the bank in terms of hourly rate or flat fee, I felt like I was really getting my money's worth and not being robbed. Highly recommended!
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01 Jan, 2025 by Taia benejan (lastamazon)
Choosing the right lawyer is obviously a very crucial step in such a weighted circumstance and Brian C Jordon absolutely has been the best choice. Brian was the consummate professional, extremely communicative and accessible. Brian found the very best options and walked us through our choices and help us to arrive at the best choice for our situation. Brian was well versed in all letters of the law and has positive professional relationships with everyone throughout the legal process to also help streamline getting to our goal. Brian was very personable and had a good energy that showed a great deal of compassion. Those personal touches are often missed in these type of exchanges but Brian was extremely thorough and dotted every "i" and crossed every "t"! We felt confident in Brian and when dealing with the stress and confusion of any legal matter, having a legal soldier on your team is definitely a relief and a benefit. I fully recommend Brian as an attorney you can trust with your life or the life of your loved one. Prices were fair and customary based on what other attorneys charge for the same predicament.
Legal fees/attorneys are expensive, freedom isn't really free but I felt like it was money well spent, that's important too, especially in these inflated and difficult economic times. Brian ticked all the right boxes! We are extremely GRATEFUL for all of his service and support
I think he should run for Governor or something political and he'd have our vote!
Additionally, but maybe less important, he was the best dressed lawyer in court, great style and a great added representation for us and our case. It was a comfort that his self representation was a measurement of how he'd represent us.
It was important for us to leave an honest and forthright review because if you have an issue, you're going to need Brian. He's one of the good guys!
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Nash harman
Very helpful through the whole process help me out a lot .
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by John hughes
Brian Delivered
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Taia benejan (lastamazon)
Choosing the right lawyer is obviously a very crucial step in such a weighted circumstance and Brian C Jordon absolutely has been the best choice. Brian was the consummate professional, extremely communicative and accessible. Brian found the very best options and walked us through our choices and help us to arrive at the best choice for our situation. Brian was well versed in all letters of the law and has positive professional relationships with everyone throughout the legal process to also help streamline getting to our goal. Brian was very personable and had a good energy that showed a great deal of compassion. Those personal touches are often missed in these type of exchanges but Brian was extremely thorough and dotted every "i" and crossed every "t"! We felt confident in Brian and when dealing with the stress and confusion of any legal matter, having a legal soldier on your team is definitely a relief and a benefit. I fully recommend Brian as an attorney you can trust with your life or the life of your loved one. Prices were fair and customary based on what other attorneys charge for the same predicament.
Legal fees/attorneys are expensive, freedom isn't really free but I felt like it was money well spent, that's important too, especially in these inflated and difficult economic times. Brian ticked all the right boxes! We are extremely GRATEFUL for all of his service and support
I think he should run for Governor or something political and he'd have our vote!
Additionally, but maybe less important, he was the best dressed lawyer in court, great style and a great added representation for us and our case. It was a comfort that his self representation was a measurement of how he'd represent us.
It was important for us to leave an honest and forthright review because if you have an issue, you're going to need Brian. He's one of the good guys!
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Nash harman
Very helpful through the whole process help me out a lot .
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24 Dec, 2024 by John hughes
Brian Delivered
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19 Nov, 2024 by Andrew lovins
Patrick was very attentive and went the extra mile to help me get my student loans forgiven. Even after it appeared that our goals seemed elusive, Patrick stayed the course with me and together we accomplished our objective. A major burden has been lifted. Patrick was professional, respectful, and knowledgeable. He gets the job done.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Stephen otto
I am an attorney in Pennsylvania who has referred a few cases to Mr. Best in the past. I want to "pile on" here in praise of his superb service to individual consumer clients. I hear nothing but good things, and I have seen the results. Particularly effective with student loan related issues (an area that few lawyers handle).
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jim vaccola
Absolutely recommend Patrick and Arm laywers he was efficient and very professional. He made everything painless and his staff was Absolutely the besy
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19 Dec, 2024 by Candace s.
Best lawyers I ever worked with! I highly recommend Attorney Allu. She is literally the best. Everything went smooth and worked out. She is great and understanding. If ever needed, call them!!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Pocono eagle
ARM Lawyers is an excellent law firm that I highly recommend. ARM may be a "small town" firm, but it had no trouble crossing swords with a multi-million dollar public utility in my case.
I was very impressed with my attorney Brett Riegel. Neither Mr. Riegel nor I know much about taxes. In the middle of a rather intense settlement session, Mr. Riegel was able to get immediate answers to complex tax questions simply by calling another ARM team member.
The tax advice I received saved me from paying an additional several thousand dollars to Uncle Sam. It pays to hire good people. When you hire ARM you don't just get an excellent attorney; you get an outstanding legal team.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Samantha
Brett always answers any and all questions/concerns I have. I’ve used him twice, for two separate cases and things have always been smoothed out just the way I’d like them to! Very responsive and just the best!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Candace s.
Best lawyers I ever worked with! I highly recommend Attorney Allu. She is literally the best. Everything went smooth and worked out. She is great and understanding. If ever needed, call them!!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Pocono eagle
ARM Lawyers is an excellent law firm that I highly recommend. ARM may be a "small town" firm, but it had no trouble crossing swords with a multi-million dollar public utility in my case.
I was very impressed with my attorney Brett Riegel. Neither Mr. Riegel nor I know much about taxes. In the middle of a rather intense settlement session, Mr. Riegel was able to get immediate answers to complex tax questions simply by calling another ARM team member.
The tax advice I received saved me from paying an additional several thousand dollars to Uncle Sam. It pays to hire good people. When you hire ARM you don't just get an excellent attorney; you get an outstanding legal team.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Andrew lovins
Patrick was very attentive and went the extra mile to help me get my student loans forgiven. Even after it appeared that our goals seemed elusive, Patrick stayed the course with me and together we accomplished our objective. A major burden has been lifted. Patrick was professional, respectful, and knowledgeable. He gets the job done.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Deyvi
Fantastic lawyer. Janet took my case with less than 2 days before my hearing. I didn’t even have to say a word in court. She handled everything and my case was dismissed. Highly recommend her.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Melissa r
Attorney Jackson represented my son on extremely serious charges. From the first time I spoke with her about his case, I knew that she would do her very best to represent him and get him the best outcome. For his charges, we collectively decided it would be in his best interest not to go to trial. Every step of the way I felt like we were family members and that she represented him as if it were her own child. We cannot thank her enough for her kindness and sincerity. She was able to secure him a fair plea deal and we were extremely pleased with her service. I would not hesitate to use her again for any type of issue.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Sonya c
I think attorney Janet Jackson was an excellent choice for my family. She was thorough, experienced, and this showed in the way she handled my daughter's case. She also went above and beyond what I expected to get my daughter the help she needed. I sincerely applaud her kindness and work ethics.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Candace s.
Best lawyers I ever worked with! I highly recommend Attorney Allu. She is literally the best. Everything went smooth and worked out. She is great and understanding. If ever needed, call them!!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Pocono eagle
ARM Lawyers is an excellent law firm that I highly recommend. ARM may be a "small town" firm, but it had no trouble crossing swords with a multi-million dollar public utility in my case.
I was very impressed with my attorney Brett Riegel. Neither Mr. Riegel nor I know much about taxes. In the middle of a rather intense settlement session, Mr. Riegel was able to get immediate answers to complex tax questions simply by calling another ARM team member.
The tax advice I received saved me from paying an additional several thousand dollars to Uncle Sam. It pays to hire good people. When you hire ARM you don't just get an excellent attorney; you get an outstanding legal team.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Andrew lovins
Patrick was very attentive and went the extra mile to help me get my student loans forgiven. Even after it appeared that our goals seemed elusive, Patrick stayed the course with me and together we accomplished our objective. A major burden has been lifted. Patrick was professional, respectful, and knowledgeable. He gets the job done.
Read more
18 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
From day one Jim has been a very resourceful lawyer. He is very eloquent with his words. His presence is known once he walks into court. Best lawyer in town. Would recommend him to anyone.
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30 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Jim Swetz represented me in a high profile, complex, and convoluted case that spanned several years. The local police and prosecutors tirelessly pursued my own demise, something ALA Steven Avery but never fully exposed. Jim never ceased in exposing the misrepresentations and pursuing a fair trial. The Verdict from the jury trial did not pan out in full acquittal, but the sentencing phase helped produce real justice in light of the conviction. And we won the appeal filed by the DAs office. Through it all Jim never stopped pursuing justice and applying case law to ensure a measure of Justice for me. Jim is a trustworthy and knowledgeable counselor.
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15 May, 2015 by Rachel
Jim Swetz was recommended to our family when my brother was killed by a drunk driver almost 5 years ago. He has had nothing but our family's best interest in heart since the beginning. He explained how the legal system worked and what we had to work with and how long the process would take. He knew nothing would ever replace my brother, a 20 year old, who lost his life far too soon. He wanted to make sure that the bar that played a huge role in his death would have to own up to what they did. Jim was there every step of the way, from seeing the young man that killed my brother in court, to testifying against him, to testifying against the bar. He was patient and encouraged us all to be patient. He fought for not only our family but for my brother. We, as a family, would highly recommend James Alan Swetz.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Jackie russell
06 Sep, 2024 by J thompson
I was very pleased with the way Munley Law handled my case. From start to finish, everyone at their firm was extremely professional and knowledgeable. They got me a great result and I consider them to be the best law firm!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa bullis
01 Jan, 2025 by Taia benejan (lastamazon)
Choosing the right lawyer is obviously a very crucial step in such a weighted circumstance and Brian C Jordon absolutely has been the best choice. Brian was the consummate professional, extremely communicative and accessible. Brian found the very best options and walked us through our choices and help us to arrive at the best choice for our situation. Brian was well versed in all letters of the law and has positive professional relationships with everyone throughout the legal process to also help streamline getting to our goal. Brian was very personable and had a good energy that showed a great deal of compassion. Those personal touches are often missed in these type of exchanges but Brian was extremely thorough and dotted every "i" and crossed every "t"! We felt confident in Brian and when dealing with the stress and confusion of any legal matter, having a legal soldier on your team is definitely a relief and a benefit. I fully recommend Brian as an attorney you can trust with your life or the life of your loved one. Prices were fair and customary based on what other attorneys charge for the same predicament.
Legal fees/attorneys are expensive, freedom isn't really free but I felt like it was money well spent, that's important too, especially in these inflated and difficult economic times. Brian ticked all the right boxes! We are extremely GRATEFUL for all of his service and support
I think he should run for Governor or something political and he'd have our vote!
Additionally, but maybe less important, he was the best dressed lawyer in court, great style and a great added representation for us and our case. It was a comfort that his self representation was a measurement of how he'd represent us.
It was important for us to leave an honest and forthright review because if you have an issue, you're going to need Brian. He's one of the good guys!
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Nash harman
Very helpful through the whole process help me out a lot .
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by John hughes
Brian Delivered
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jackie russell
06 Sep, 2024 by J thompson
I was very pleased with the way Munley Law handled my case. From start to finish, everyone at their firm was extremely professional and knowledgeable. They got me a great result and I consider them to be the best law firm!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa bullis
12 Sep, 2024 by Jackie russell
06 Sep, 2024 by J thompson
I was very pleased with the way Munley Law handled my case. From start to finish, everyone at their firm was extremely professional and knowledgeable. They got me a great result and I consider them to be the best law firm!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa bullis
25 Oct, 2024 by Richard carruthers
My wife Maureen and I just sold our vacation home in Big Bass Lake in the Poconos. We love the house and the community but had to sell due to advancing age. Throughout the process we were represented by Timothy Fisher, Esq., of Fisher & Fisher. Mr. Fisher, assisted by his able paralegal Debbie, explained the selling process to us, answered all our questions, and quickly and conscientiously resolved difficulties that arose along the way to final closing.
Thirty-seven years ago, we were represented by Mr. Fisher’s father, Timothy Fisher, Senior, when we bought the house. We were more than happy with his representation back then as we are with the representation accorded to us by his son so many years later. From start to finish, we have been delighted with the highly competent legal assistance provided by Fisher & Fisher.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Mike botjer
Ease of access, fast and accurate answers. I would highly recommend Fisher & Fisher law offices!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Victor dinnen
Fisher & Fisher has been extremely professional, knowledgeable, and friendly throughout everything I have needed. Thank you!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Candace s.
Best lawyers I ever worked with! I highly recommend Attorney Allu. She is literally the best. Everything went smooth and worked out. She is great and understanding. If ever needed, call them!!
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Pocono eagle
ARM Lawyers is an excellent law firm that I highly recommend. ARM may be a "small town" firm, but it had no trouble crossing swords with a multi-million dollar public utility in my case.
I was very impressed with my attorney Brett Riegel. Neither Mr. Riegel nor I know much about taxes. In the middle of a rather intense settlement session, Mr. Riegel was able to get immediate answers to complex tax questions simply by calling another ARM team member.
The tax advice I received saved me from paying an additional several thousand dollars to Uncle Sam. It pays to hire good people. When you hire ARM you don't just get an excellent attorney; you get an outstanding legal team.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Andrew lovins
Patrick was very attentive and went the extra mile to help me get my student loans forgiven. Even after it appeared that our goals seemed elusive, Patrick stayed the course with me and together we accomplished our objective. A major burden has been lifted. Patrick was professional, respectful, and knowledgeable. He gets the job done.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Conrad
Has helped me out for over 20years. He is the man to get if you want results. He is very knowledgeable. As a lawyer 10/10.. Now on a personal level he is truly a great man . Has a good heart and when he says he will get something done consider it done.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
In a criminal case he Never reviewed the discovery, never discussed the issues of taking a plea vs going to trial. He works with the prosecutions side not yours. Did nothing for the case and he admitted he did nothing for the case. You would be better off defending yourself because you will get convicted using Watkins…the worse attorney because he just doesn’t care…and his oath to defend was him crossing his fingers behind his back!
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29 Aug, 2023 by Paulette
I hired Attorney Watkins for a simple matter; someone wasn't truthful to a police officer and I was surprised when I discovered I was being charged at the magistrate office. I had a free consultation; he was thorough, attentive and very organized. I hired Attorney Watkins to represent me at my hearing; but my hearing was rescheduled for months later. Not only did he remember my case; he was prepared, he spoke on my behalf and all charges were withdrawn. Attorney Watkins also dispelled false information; I was being accredited with another woman's criminal record because she had a similar name! I would hire his office if I am in need of another attorney and highly recommend him.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Christina salerno
After ONE YEAR $1,500 nothing was done my divorce and not one person has reached out fast to cash the check though!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Hotbox (the guu)
I was told “That’s not how things work around here in common wealth”. She got upset and hung up on me, very unprofessional. Be careful they might be working with the prosecutors against you.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Richie barthlemess
Great law firm Jacob Hill is very professional and gets results! I'm glad I chose him for my Divorce. He explained everything thoroughly what to expect if I had to do it all over again I would definitely hire this firm.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Kevin
Attorney Sundmaker, as well as, his awesome paralegal Lisa, are the best in the area. I do not mean he simply excels as an attorney but, has committed to excellence in the knowledge of the law and communication with his clients. I have been a client for over a year, in an array of cases. I have also found Attorney Sundmaker and his staff to be the most correct in practice. If you are looking for “right is right”, he’s your guy.
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03 Oct, 2019 by Chris
We did not find Mr. Sundmaker to be effective, responsive or concerned about resolving a DUI matter. He did not return phone calls or letters once he had our initial payment of $500, nor did he produce requested documentation for the work that was claimed to have been done on our behalf.
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14 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Sundmaker did great helping out my dad during hard times. His secretary was extremely helpful when I called with questions. They also helped when I was struggling to make payments. Mr. Sundmaker and his office are helpful and really willing to work with you. Thanks!!
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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.
