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29 Oct, 2018 by Jennifer
Melissa is amazing! Her experience in Bell County courts is outstanding and she is tough in the courtroom. I have won every motion, even those filed against me.
Melissa at Blanchard & Thomas knows the law inside and out and I couldn't feel more confident with my contested divorce case. With family and business at stake, hiring Melissa gave me a huge sense of relief and reduced my anxiety ten-fold.
Melissa made this a winning situation for my entire family!
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30 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Melissa was referred to me by a family friend after I had contacted two others in the area. I sought a divorce attorney that was familiar with Military families and the different regulations that get mixed up with a civilian divorce. After our initial consultation, I knew I found the one that would be worth every stressful thought and pinched penny.
Melissa is very knowledgeable and patient when explaining "legal-ese" concerning the process and progress of the case. Despite knowing that all of her time spent on matters of my case is compensated, I never once felt that my case was only a source of income. She always went above and beyond to accommodate my concerns and questions. I never felt as if I was being an inconvenience and her quick responses via phone and email was a reassurance that my case was just as important for her as for me.
Melissa is genuine and addressed all I needed and things I did not know I needed. I am thankful for her and she will be highly recommended to all of those in my circle that are looking for an attorney.
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26 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Melissa is amazing to work with. She is smart, dedicated, and compassionate toward her clients. She is always prompt with inquiries and proactive in making sure the client always knows what is happening, what is needed, and what to expect next.
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14 Jun, 2015 by Travis
Got my case dropped. Very informative and professional. Overall good experience.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Melody
Brennan is a fantastic ...very determined and will have ur back to the fullest ... And will go the extra mile for you ... He tells it like it is and I recommend him to the fullest matter of fact need him lol check em out waco ... Don't judge by looks ... He's a unique and great lawyer
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11 Sep, 2015 by Chris
I had a lawyer and all he could get me was 7 years tdcj when I called Chris and he was able to get me in reinstated on probabtion now about to be off felony free he's the best in bell county
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22 Sep, 2023 by Jose alex zamora benitez
She was amazing did her job and thank her so much she did what she had to do and beyond got everything that I needed and wanted I definitely recommend her to everyone and anyone she is the best much love for her
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13 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
It’s been weeks that I’ve called whomever answers the phone for this lady because she sure doesn’t. Left messages and nothing! I’m sure someone else out there wants this retainer. Save your hard earned money Becky I’d she doesn’t returns calls I been only imagine the service provided throughout a case!!
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15 Apr, 2021 by Julissa
Excelente Abogada! Desde el primer momento puso todo su empeño en mi caso, hubo muy buena comunicación poniendome al tanto de todo. Ella supo defenderme de la mejor manera y Gracias a Dios y a ella hoy estoy de nuevo con mis hijos. GRACIAS
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11 Jul, 2024 by Azythrom (azythromycin drives a lot)
11 Apr, 2024 by David watkins
14 Mar, 2024 by Frank riggle
Great customer service, highly knowledgeable staff
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4.8
6 Reviews
4.2
32 Reviews
27 Jul, 2024 by Jamaal gist
Solid very knowledgeable
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19 Jun, 2024 by Brian ashby
I appreciate this man.
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06 May, 2024 by Tad allen
Andrew is a knowledgeable trustworthy and skilled advocate
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18 Apr, 2020 by Carlos delbrey
works hard and helped us
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19 Jan, 2020 by Fileza hairston harden
The Attorney didn't really address my Dad's needs nor an alternative of help.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Lorraine valetta
Wonderful and very helpful
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18 Apr, 2020 by Carlos delbrey
works hard and helped us
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19 Jan, 2020 by Fileza hairston harden
The Attorney didn't really address my Dad's needs nor an alternative of help.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Lorraine valetta
Wonderful and very helpful
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27 Jul, 2024 by Jamaal gist
Solid very knowledgeable
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19 Jun, 2024 by Brian ashby
I appreciate this man.
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06 May, 2024 by Tad allen
Andrew is a knowledgeable trustworthy and skilled advocate
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27 Jul, 2024 by Jamaal gist
Solid very knowledgeable
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19 Jun, 2024 by Brian ashby
I appreciate this man.
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06 May, 2024 by Tad allen
Andrew is a knowledgeable trustworthy and skilled advocate
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22 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
With my friend's life hanging in the balance, this lawyer was assigned to her by the court. He didn't even go see her and dispel her fears. He didn't even called me back. He sends text messages like an unconcerned teenage child. His assistant is condescending with a pompous attitude. He must only care about a paycheck. But from the comments on the other site I guess he doesn't care about anything. Why are you even a lawyer?
For those of us who are living paycheck to paycheck this so-called lawyer is a death sentence. When he did a video conference with my friend on February 12 he threatened her with 20 years in prison. With lawyers like that who needs the prosecution? He found out that another lawyer was hired and rescinded her bail reduction hearing to reduce the half a million dollar bail put on her without proper cause. You didn't need to do that. Which only shows how much of a creep you really are.
When people's lives are at stake you can't just pretend the issue will go away and neglect your oath. We need capable, effective attorneys that talk to us and help us. Where is your compassion? Where is your sense of Duty? Show us that you are competent. Help us believe in a system that many claim isn't broken. Fight for your client. Be the champion we need you to be in our time of distress
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11 Sep, 2019 by Brian
I hired Mr. White for a juvenile case. He worked tirelessly to obtain the desired results for his client! I’m very pleased that I decided to hire him to represent my son! I think he is the best juvenile attorney in bell county!!!
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Hired Mike after my ex started a custody battle. DRAMA of all sorts ensued and he has handled it all! From bogus criminal charges to the various dramas of the custody battle(s). The ex's drama through all this resembles something more befitting a Lifetime TV Movie! If he can handle this situation he can handle yours . He's effective, incredibly knowledgeable, and aggressive. He's going to stand up for you. He won't sugar coat things and tells it to you straight. I've never felt like "just another client" they actually care. I can't imagine going through any of this with any other attorney. If you find yourself facing a contentious divorce custody battle or ANY criminal charge you want this guy and his team on your side! Worth every penny!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Deep devine
Horrible experience won’t even begin
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16 Sep, 2024 by Matthew johnson
This Lawyer and his firm are the epitome of a "sleeze bag" lawyer. He will charge you for every thing you could think of while your case sits stagnant for two years. Never accomplishing anything, unprepared, and will have minimal contact with u. They demand additional fees while double charging you for miscellaneous and frivolous charges. Please do not hire this lawyer as you will be financially destroyed, never see your day in court, and very disappointed in his performance and extreme billing practices.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Joe brown
23 Sep, 2024 by Deep devine
Horrible experience won’t even begin
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16 Sep, 2024 by Matthew johnson
This Lawyer and his firm are the epitome of a "sleeze bag" lawyer. He will charge you for every thing you could think of while your case sits stagnant for two years. Never accomplishing anything, unprepared, and will have minimal contact with u. They demand additional fees while double charging you for miscellaneous and frivolous charges. Please do not hire this lawyer as you will be financially destroyed, never see your day in court, and very disappointed in his performance and extreme billing practices.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Joe brown
12 Sep, 2020 by Joe
Going into a custody case, as a father, you don't expect much, due to the misconception that mothers always get custody. Lynn went above and beyond on my case, from the time of our initial consultation through after our case was complete. He answered all of my questions within a matter of hours. He was attentive to all information that was provided and ensured that the judge was able to see that I was the more fit parent. Lynn continued to look out for the best interest of my son, throughout the entirety of my case. His paralegal, Toni, was also a pleasure to work with throughout everything.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Tobbie
Mr. Libersky and everyone in his office always took the time to answer my questions, no matter how many time I asked the question. They walked me through the entire process of my divorce, they were very professional, and the fees were reasonable.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Tim
After meeting with several attorneys, I knew Lynn was the attorney for my case. He and his staff care very much about each case and work not only in your best interest but in the best interest for your whole situation for the long term. He and his staff have decades of experience and it shows. He handled my case with a very difficult opposing side who has been more interesting in mud-slinging than doing what's best for the situation. He was able to get a very good resolution in my case. He and his staff showed abundant care and knowledge about my case. There was never an issue contacting him or his staff and communication was quickly returned. In legal cases, emotions can run high. He and his staff not only help you manage that but also will tell you the truth (which may not always be what you want to hear, but it will be what you need to hear). If you want an attorney with integrity, respect, and who will fight for you; then Lynn, Nita, and Toni are the team you want to have on your side.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Tyreese hunt
Ms Chelsea roseman did the most exceptional job she worked very hard and always made sure I was in the loop always responded to emails and made sure I was up to date with anything that was going on I was with her for over a year and she has been by far the best legal counsel I have ever aquired thank you so much for how easy you made this very stressful even in my life
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23 Jul, 2024 by Victoria loveless
This place is a joke. My case got passed off to three different lawyers from them “no longer being with our firm” and just found out today that the paralegal on my case is also “not with the firm”. I’m not sure why they can’t keep people there but somehow they have drained my entire $5,000 trust and I have absolutely nothing to show for it. I was given bad info and misled by 2 of the lawyers, 1 who also showed up to my court date late and giving me an attitude as is I wasn’t paying him to be there. Terrible experience, getting a lawyer did absolutely nothing for me. I wish I had read the reviews and spent my money elsewhere.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Mandiidel
0/5 START
TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE- Unprofessional and Incompetent Service
I am extremely disappointed with the service I received from this attorney. My experience was nothing short of a nightmare. From the outset, it was clear that professionalism and competence were not priorities for this attorney. I wish I could find these reviews before signing a contract with these people.
First, communication was abysmal. Despite numerous attempts to get clear and advanced updates on my case, my calls and emails were often ignored or answered with a vague and unhelpful response. The LACK OF TRANSPARENCY and accountability was incredibly frustrating and left me in the dark for 7 months.
Additionally, the first attorney (I wasn't aware was someone different from Mr. Barina) seemed completely disorganized and unprepared. 5+ months later after I signed a contract with the attorney, I found out that the attorney running my case was no longer working in the office and whoever would be in charge of my case needed time to catch up on the case. Important deadlines were missed, and crucial documents were incorrectly filed. Their blatant disregard for detail and lack of diligence was appalling and severely jeopardized the outcome of my case.
Overall, Bobby Dale Barina's office provided the worst legal service I ever experienced. Their unprofessionalism, incompetence, and lack of basic communication skills made an already stressful situation infinitely worse and incomplete. Hours before I got on a plane for military purposes, I found out that they were unwilling to represent me for my case due "absence of jurisdiction." Information that, they probably knew, for a long time ago and they held on shared with me. 7 months after I am in the same place where I started with the case, with $5,000 less in my bank account, and waiting to finish with my military obligations to go back to the States and restart the process due to their hiding of information. I WOULD STRONGLY ADVISE ANYONE CONSIDERING THIS FIRM TO LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR LEGAL REPRESENTATION.
P.S. Incredibly diligent in replying to a bad review and remembering a client. For future reference, next time I suggest providing straightforward and consistent information from the beginning. This will ensure that new clients have clear and realistic expectations. This is crucial for foresting trust and confidence between both parties. CLEARLY, you didn't complete the task. As a result, of your performance, it hurts my trust in your competence and services.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Tyreese hunt
Ms Chelsea roseman did the most exceptional job she worked very hard and always made sure I was in the loop always responded to emails and made sure I was up to date with anything that was going on I was with her for over a year and she has been by far the best legal counsel I have ever aquired thank you so much for how easy you made this very stressful even in my life
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23 Jul, 2024 by Victoria loveless
This place is a joke. My case got passed off to three different lawyers from them “no longer being with our firm” and just found out today that the paralegal on my case is also “not with the firm”. I’m not sure why they can’t keep people there but somehow they have drained my entire $5,000 trust and I have absolutely nothing to show for it. I was given bad info and misled by 2 of the lawyers, 1 who also showed up to my court date late and giving me an attitude as is I wasn’t paying him to be there. Terrible experience, getting a lawyer did absolutely nothing for me. I wish I had read the reviews and spent my money elsewhere.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Mandiidel
0/5 START
TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE- Unprofessional and Incompetent Service
I am extremely disappointed with the service I received from this attorney. My experience was nothing short of a nightmare. From the outset, it was clear that professionalism and competence were not priorities for this attorney. I wish I could find these reviews before signing a contract with these people.
First, communication was abysmal. Despite numerous attempts to get clear and advanced updates on my case, my calls and emails were often ignored or answered with a vague and unhelpful response. The LACK OF TRANSPARENCY and accountability was incredibly frustrating and left me in the dark for 7 months.
Additionally, the first attorney (I wasn't aware was someone different from Mr. Barina) seemed completely disorganized and unprepared. 5+ months later after I signed a contract with the attorney, I found out that the attorney running my case was no longer working in the office and whoever would be in charge of my case needed time to catch up on the case. Important deadlines were missed, and crucial documents were incorrectly filed. Their blatant disregard for detail and lack of diligence was appalling and severely jeopardized the outcome of my case.
Overall, Bobby Dale Barina's office provided the worst legal service I ever experienced. Their unprofessionalism, incompetence, and lack of basic communication skills made an already stressful situation infinitely worse and incomplete. Hours before I got on a plane for military purposes, I found out that they were unwilling to represent me for my case due "absence of jurisdiction." Information that, they probably knew, for a long time ago and they held on shared with me. 7 months after I am in the same place where I started with the case, with $5,000 less in my bank account, and waiting to finish with my military obligations to go back to the States and restart the process due to their hiding of information. I WOULD STRONGLY ADVISE ANYONE CONSIDERING THIS FIRM TO LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR LEGAL REPRESENTATION.
P.S. Incredibly diligent in replying to a bad review and remembering a client. For future reference, next time I suggest providing straightforward and consistent information from the beginning. This will ensure that new clients have clear and realistic expectations. This is crucial for foresting trust and confidence between both parties. CLEARLY, you didn't complete the task. As a result, of your performance, it hurts my trust in your competence and services.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Butch
Horrible attorney, lazy and a liar. I hired James M. Whorley for my daughter’s child custody case. Upon our first consultation I paid his consultation fee and my daughter and I provided all the facts pertaining to the case. He stated the only way to handle the case was with a jury trial and agreed he would represent my daughter for a flat fee of $30,000 dollars with $15,000 paid down and the remainder $15,000 paid before trial. I paid the initial $15,000 dollars. He failed to answer or return calls on numerous occasions, my daughter was often told they were busy with a new client intake and couldn’t come to the phone. He failed to properly represent her to the best of his ability and continuously was afraid to stand up to the court on clear violation by the court under Texas Family Law. He continuously violated client attorney privilege, failed to file motions and subpoenas, and was always late to court. He also confirmed deals without clients consent and knowledge. He Demanded additional fees (or early payment?) stating it was taking more time than he could spend without additional fees (or early payment?) and that he made $400.00 dollars per hour and would withdraw from the case if it wasn’t paid. An additional payment (or early payment?) was made by my daughter for $5,000 yet he filed a motion to withdraw telling my daughter he no longer had time to spend on her case due to his eyesight, secretary in hospital with cancer, yet Whorley continued to take on additional clients. He Stated we could file a complaint with the bar association for he had 40 (30??) years experience practicing law. He failed to return any monies paid to him. A certified letter return receipt was mailed to him with statement of facts and pending intent to file suit which he refused to accept and was returned to sender. He runs a one man office without the resources to properly handle a case and will not challenge the judge even knowing the judge violated Texas and Federal Law, he represents himself rather than his client and don’t expect to see him unless it is the day before court or the morning of court and expect him to be unprepared for hearings. Refused to file a Writ of Mandamus even though there were clear violations of law and stated he had to practice law here and was a friend of the judge.
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28 Jul, 2022 by Paul
-5 Stars. James Whorley was my Divorce Lawyer. When I first discussed the case with him he gave me me his cell phone number and I felt comfortable with him.Come to find out he would never answer any of my calls or voice mails emails or text. If I left a message on their office voice mail no response. But when they wanted money. They would call nonstop.My ex-wife did so much harm to me.So how did she end up with $65,000 worth of Amish furniture about $80,000 worth of art. And I was awarded some art how. How did Jim just get me three paintings hight one with $900.00and not the $20,000 one? And the money from the house we sold in Ca? How was she able to keep my $25,000 in tools my sons gifts he gave me over the last 12 years my bible collection worth $7,000. Anytime we had to appear in court Jim was always late. I would call his office and the office would say he's proberly talking-to other lawyers.Why is he talking to anybody and not discussing the case with me. Im the one paying him $400 an hour. During court the last of the divorce. Jim was contacted by her lawyer that they wanted 2 credit accounts but Jim never did tell me. So he begged The Judge to het us get them by 5pm that day. She said no because we had plenty of time to get them.He never did say we dropped the ball and I'm sorry. I am very disabled. When I was in the hospital a few times and I would call his office and tell then I was in the hospital and they said it was fishy. And wanted the hospital to send the a letter.Her lawyer in the closing said I should go a foodbank if I needed food and she should not have to give support. She lied big time and got a restaining order. I called the local police to help me get some clothes and my credit cards. She came out and had a fit. Well they arrested me. How I dont know.Jim told the Judge that he would have it dropped. Well that's not what he did and I did a year probation because getting it dropped would have not made him anymore more money. Of course he charged me $1,500.00 to take the plea deal deal. Total cost was about $10,000. I know Jim would say but you got the house. Yes but if she would have put in up for sale in the first 30 days I would have had to give to her because the equity was only about $20,000 and with closing cost and realtors fees I would have had to pay to sell the house. So we sued her to sell the house. Well, a month before that. She took me to court say I was driving around the house. Well, It was not my truck. Not the color not the model. Well Jim charged me $1,500.00 to defend me. How come he didn't ask the court to make her pay it since it was a lie? Well, when we sued her the Judge to sell the house the Judge and if we wanted jail time? Jim said no I talked to her and she is good. WHAT? That was not Jims call to make it was mine. She destroyed my life and Jim gives her a pass. I can't tell you how upset I was.Well my ex-wife wrote him an excellent review before the truck court case. when the house was finally sold I had to pay $3709.00 in taxes to the new buyer. Well she got a refund check and I was owed that money so I called Jim and his office for 7 months to get this taken care of. Jim finally responded to it at 7:30 am one morning and said he will send out a demand letter. Well I called his office for 5 weeks and the said the would talk to him 5 weeks??? Finally his office sent out the demand letter because ehe never did.Well no follow up at all. I finally had to contact her lawyer and get half.My ex wife wrote a review Jim and said he's an excellent lawyer and a kind man. What was he doing talking to her when Well he is either an horrible divorce lawyer or she flirted with him or she paid him because he was on her side the whole time.I founds still has my service dog that she said died. Did Jim confirm that? No he did not. I do no recommend Jim Whorley as a divorce lawyer. If you want to loose everything hire Jim.
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24 Sep, 2019 by Sherrie
Mr Whorley has represented me several times over the last 3 years. Each time he has been levelheaded and quick thinking. He has a brilliant mind and can think outside the box. In addition, I can see that he is well loved by the staff at the courthouse and respected by other attorneys, which speaks volumes about his character and reputation. I highly recommend Mr Whorley.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
He calls only between midnight or 3 am and expects responses.. 10 out of 10, do not recommend to any party in need of legal assistance.
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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.
