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17 Jan, 2023 by Mareka stewart
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18 May, 2019 by Tim
I hired attorney Corletra Mance on February 1 2019 as my attorney . She is Very unprofessional she doesn’t deserve a 1 star rating. I am disabled and hired her to help me get split custody and to save my son’s life. She stated 1,500 dollars retainer fee that she allowed me to break down to three payments. I started first payment on February 1 2019 and finished payment plan on April 5 2019. I filed the petition on my own also she didn’t show up to court didn’t send someone else from her firm I had to speak for myself. Since I felt like she wasn’t doing anything to help me so I fired her and now she stated that I still owe her $1,500 dollars for the retainer fee. Thank God I kept copies of my receipts. I wouldn’t recommend her at all to anyone!
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31 Oct, 2017 by Stephanie
I am extremely grateful to attorney Michael Freeman for his guidance, support, and generosity in helping me get through my divorce and custody battle. From the very beginning Mr. Freeman gave me sound advice, and agreed to help me with my divorce at a very reasonable price. He met with me on Saturdays which were the only times I was free. He was my third attorney, my first two attorneys rang up so much in legal bills that I had to postpone my divorce until they were paid. I never thought I was going to ever get divorce and custody of my children until a teacher at my school recommended Mr. Freeman. My divorce was very sad and painful, but I will always be grateful to Mr. Freeman for getting me through it smoothly and for getting me my children back.
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I would not use this attorney.He never calls you back after you leave messages.I have given him money to type up divorce papers and he type them up wrong.I inform secretary she said she would retype them.She has failed too this as been since april of last yr.No contact with him since. He took my money and didnt do anything .
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13 Mar, 2017 by Pam gibbs
I retained Attorney Michael Lloyd Freeman for personal injury he made promises but failed to keep them. Refused to respond to my email and phone calls certified letter. Refused to inform me of case and tell the court the truth about his own actions always blaming the client never takes responsibility for his own actions. Intentionally mislead me failed to inform me of court date hoping I wouldn't show up so it would be dismissed. He's a discredit to the legal Profession. Unprofessional in appearance. His Pardner in his deceint is his Paralegal Wife.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
The worst attorney you could hire I wouldn't even consider him an attorney. He's a con artist using the attorney privilege to take money from clients and never having any intentions of actually doing anything for them. His license was suspended in TN in 2023 for misappropriation of funds (stealing) and license in VA was suspended in 2024 for misconduct ( failure to not provide any services and lying about it) . He has another complaint against hin in TN that is pending.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Will not call you back and never answered phone messages. Been in jail for almost a year and he hasn’t made a plea to judge for dismissal after three years .
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25 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
This attorney represented me during my case. I was very dissatisfied with his service. Specifically the fact that he would not return phone calls (for weeks at a time) and made false promises. I also found his assistant to be very rude and dishonest. At one point, I witnessed his assistant pick-up and hang-up the phone on other clients to avoid taking their call. I also witnessed Samuel White's assistant advising other clients that Mr. White was out of the office despite the fact he was sitting right beside her. I assume he uses this tactic as well to avoid clients. Overall I was very dissatisfied and I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Bruce
I posted a negative review on Google reviews back in May but I deleted it thinking I was being hasty. Now I realize my initial assessment of Mr. Deakins was correct after all. After leaving messages for 3 weeks now I still haven't gotten a return call - but it has been like this from the start. This firm's business practices, to me, are horrible. Either his receptionist fails to give him messages or he simply ignores them. The only thing he seemed to be in a hurry about was taking the money, then you are pushed to the side. He may be a good attorney and he may get results but he leaves a paying client in the dark and that is a pretty helpless feeling.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Ken
Will not return calls and after being paid for services will not refund money for services not rendered. Drive to Knoxville or Chattanooga before using this guy
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05 Apr, 2022 by Zachary
It is difficult to put into words and accurately convey all the great qualities of Mr. Deakins as an attorney!! He is extremely hard working and has a vast knowledge of the law. He is very understanding and was always available to answer any of my many questions as quickly as possible. His character both as an attorney and person is outstanding! He fiercely represented me with skill and professionalism. I would highly recommend Mr. Deakins for your legal needs. Not only will he treat you and your case with dedication and focus, but he will sincerely fight for you and your innocence.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer failed to protect me from the hands of my abusive husband. She failed in many areas and didn’t protect me from getting wrongfully charged with assault when I was the one assaulted. I was then harassed by the man for the next year without much I could do about it because he claimed I broke an oop by letting his kids contact him. Worst lawyer ever for anyone in an abusive relationship. You won’t be protected, helped, or represented well at all. She simply doesn’t have the time or care to help you.
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25 Apr, 2023 by Larry
Ms. Coleman is smart and quick on her feet. She has lots of trial experience, and it shows. She listened to me when I was going through a hard time and she was appointed to me. She didn't have to work hard as hard for me as her other clients. She knew I couldn't pay and she didn't care. She still fought for me and was able to get me out of jail. Highly recommend.
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22 May, 2022 by Anonymous
This attorney seemed more focused on her upcoming election she was running for than to meet the needs of her client. She treated me like just another number and gave off a snooty vibe like she thought she was better than me. She did not accept my concerns as valid and dismissed my requests on how to represent my defense. I hope no one else who needs quality representation gets stuck with this attorney.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I met him first when I had a small criminal issue. Very professional, kept me updated, and got the BS charges dismissed. When my divorce came up this past year I remembered him. He does those cases too! I cannot recommend him enough. He has saved me twice now. I cannot thank him enough. The best money I ever spent and the nicest, friendliest lawyer you could imagine. Not that expensive either. I talked to two others in town before I knew Wes did divorce cases. One of them made me pay to even talk to him and acted like he didn’t want me there. The other didn’t charge me to talk to her, but she talked the whole time. I was so happy when I thought to call Wes. He was really good about explaining everything and answering questions when I would call. And his assistant (Brittany, I think) was so sweet. I really loved her. I just could not be happier with the services I got. And I didn’t have to go to Knoxville. I highly recommend Wes out of the very body in tazewell
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01 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
this was a waste of money he was useless. had to fire him and hire another lawyer. All he done was take my money!!! BEWARE DONT HIRE HIM!!
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28 Sep, 2021 by Brad
Helped me with a DUI and Simple possession x2 charge. Was able to get everything thrown out besides the DUI due to the bloodwork. Was a little high but not bad and will use him anytime I need a lawyer. He can come across a bit of a d*ck but you want that in a lawyer! He knew the rules and was smart where it mattered most!!. 9.5/10!
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14 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
when i first talked to Mr Dicus on the phone briefly told him about what was going on and the first thing he told me was and i quote....i get 750.00 dollars to walk across the street to the court house.....there is much more i can say...like not returning my phone calls...and his people skills leaves a lot to be desired
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09 Aug, 2019 by Phillip
Mr. Costner is the best lawyer I have ever hired, and unfortunately I’ve had to hire several for an array of matters. He commands respect in the court room and gets the job done. He was referred to me from a very satisfied client, and I have in turn referred him to several people, all pleased with their results. If you find yourself in a bad situation and the chips are stacked against you, put your money on Joe.
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28 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I was assured my Mr Costner that upon filing for a deferment on my case with a no contest plea, i would only have to face a restitution fine and unsupervised probation, if any probation. I get to court just to have him refuse to speak to me before going in front of the judge and then i was FORCED into a guilty plea even though we agreed on a no contest plea which resulted in supervised probation for a year, an incredibly HUGE fine, and being banned from a store that had NOTHING to do with our case! I will NEVER again use Joe Costner nor will i recommend him to even my enemies!
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06 Jun, 2023 by Barb
Mr. Sharp worked with us and quickly filed the paperwork to get my husband and I custody of a young relative. He was communicative and helped us with any concerns. He explained the process in a way that we felt like we understood what our options were and could make the best decisions. I would hire him again but hope I won't have to.
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28 Jan, 2023 by Amanda
Mr. Matthew Sharp has been fired. He took money for both his personal fee and filing fee to take someone to court, but he never did. He was hired for about two years to do this simple job instead all he did was file with the court after a year when he was about to be dismissed and assume his resignation for not doing his job and not communicating for months at a time...he pocked the serv papers money and never served the papers...I gave him several more months to give him a chance...but he showed me he was just pulling my leg. So he has been fired and stole my funds. He also never gave me my file or showed what work he performed.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. LaPorte was hired to protect two minor children in state custody. Mr. LaPorte failed to check on the minor children, investigate alligations that put the children's lives in danger. He did not have the children's best interest at hand. His services were mediocre at best.
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13 Oct, 2018 by Kathryn
He helped me so much with my case in getting my children back. He let me know everytime something happened and made sure I understood everything. Will be using him again soon.
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12 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I had an appointment with My Simerlein with regards to my adjustment of status to the US. He knew less about my case facts that I did and all he wanted to do was steer us towards the most expensive route (with regards to his fees). He showed very little interest in me and my husband, aside from how much fee he could book and how scary he could make the process sound to us (thereby trying to get us to book his top end fees). We booked an hour appointment with him but only got 20 min with him as his secretary came in and told him he had to go to his next appointment. We agreed to send follow-up paperwork to him so he could review and advise us more accurately. We sent the paperwork and never heard back from him. But he was of course, was very happy to deduced the hourly fee from our account and go on with his business. Steer clear of this guy. He is inauthentic.
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19 Jun, 2019 by Rachel
Mr Simerlain and his entire staff - Javier, Ana and so many others were so dedicated and professional in helping navigate the immigration courts and process. They were very thorough and prompt with the presentation and arguments. Steven is very knowledgeable and very keen to making sure his clients are getting the best of his work, service and commitment. He work ethic is impeccable and his demeanor is so relaxing even in the most difficult of situations. I would highly recommend Mr. Simerlain to anyone who has immigration questions and or concerns. He is very fair in pricing and is very considerate regardless of anyone circumstances. He treats people with dignity and purposes and sees potential where some people would not find it. He is a qualified and very competent lawyer . He knows the law and the justice system in and out and he spends tons of hours working on each case making it very personal. I am eternally grateful for his guidance and direction and hard work. His entire office team is super to work with and they are available at anytime
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27 Sep, 2021 by Susan
Randall Morrison was excellent in helping my son gaining full custody of our grand children. It’s often hard to gain custody of children when you are the male parent. He worked with my son and us (the grandparents) to make sure we had all the info we needed to gain full custody. He got to the facts during court and proved the mother’s neglect. Courts may lean toward a mother getting custody, but after gathering the information needed with his guidance and assistance, the mother lost her parental rights as she should due to her neglect and several other factors. I highly recommend Randall Morrison. Our grandchildren would have been in a terrible and unsafe situation. We are so thankful they are now thriving as responsible kind children that were honestly saved by the result of our court case under his expert guidance and interrogation during court. We are so thankful.
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13 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not use Randall Morrison!! We hired him for a custody case over a year and a half ago, paid him in full up front which was our first mistake..He drug his feet because of “Covid” and couldn’t even get us a court date until a year after he was hired. He waited so long they moved the case to a different county 4 hours away and he doesn’t travel that far! Which is understandable but he would not return any of our money so we could hire someone who would. He literally did NOTHING for us but kept all of our money and now we still have nothing and are out almost $4,000. Worst Lawyer I’ve ever had. Highly recommend going elsewhere.
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08 Nov, 2022 by The mighty muse
I have used John 5 times and he has worked so hard each time. He has gotten me everything I have asked for and has honestly changed my life completely. John is absolutely amazing and I wouldn't ever think of using anyone else. 10 stars if I could.
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31 Jan, 2020 by J m
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26 Aug, 2019 by Curt
I recently obtained Mr. Meadows in a domestic dispute. I had consulted him early on in my case and he failed to inform me of my legal options and dismissed my grievances. This lack of action would lead to an arrest and Mr Meadows was hired to defend. He never looked at none of my information and based on information from the prosecution deemed me not credible. I never got to tell my side of the story. I was discouraged by Mr Meadows from making a statement to the court and discouraged from reporting crimes committed against me . I signed a plea deal after I became fearful of his motives. He did a very good job of telling me what my charges were. He had nothing to say for my defense other than 2 things that public record. It was the most helpless feeling being in another state, hearing lies and misinformed judgements of my intent by the plaintiff and the judge and my lawyer does nothing to defend me against them. I had lived my entire life being a good man and left that state ashamed and $21000 in the hole with weeks of time lost that could have been avoided. I dont like reviews and dont do them often. He didnt even bother to learn my name.
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10 May, 2018 by Dora
John resolved a frivolous and fraudulent claim filed by a step son. He knows the law, personable and hard working to defend his client. Continuous email updates, resulted in a Court Hearing that we won. Highly Recommend John - he will win your case!
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23 May, 2017 by Bill
I retained Mr. McLemore after speaking with several other attorneys. I hired him b/c of the fee he quoted me. I was well pleased with the result. Not only did he get my charges dismissed he also did my expungement. I would highly recommend him.
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05 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
This so called attorney does not represent his clients to full potential. . Scams clients and does not return calls. One of worst decisions I have made was hiring this man to represent me he should be disbarred
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20 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Lance Brandon Mayes to file a Petition for Alimony & Child Support Arreage. He requested $3500 in cash up front. We went to Bank of America, I withdrew $3500 in cash from my savings, paid him. He left town the next day, took his family on vacation & never filed the Petition.
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18 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I have no previous experience with lawyers and I was honestly a bit nervous finding someone that did not have reviews. However, time was a great concern and I knew that Lance Mayes was a good person after our initial telephone conversation. He seemed genuinely interested in what I had to say, he asked insightful questions, and was very attentive. I never had a hard time contacting him and he always got right back to me. The first portion of my case is now over and he is working on the second part so I'll post another review when that is over. All in all, I cannot not enough positive things about working with this lawyer. He is very professional, prompt, and knowledgeable. If you hire him you will not regret it!
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11 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Irwin Cantor Is Not His Best At Dealing With Cases Such As Child Support (Current Client) He Seems A Little Lost On His Cases I Highly Don't Recommend You Hiring Him He's Lazy N Hard To Keep In Touch With
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25 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Highly vested in his clients and highly versed in his field. He has been doing this for over 20 years and he knows his profession and those involved in it very well. He has seen me through 2 divorces and an adoption....he is amazing!!!!
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10 Aug, 2022 by Peter
I hired Jim to represent me and my family after my home was destroyed by a mudslide due to negligent grading that failed done by my neighbor.. It has been 3.5 years and I have gotten every run around and excuse you can imagine from, being sick, to dad dying, to car accident, to being mugged, to being sick, to power being off at his office, to being on vacation, to having Covid, to being have a dental procedure done, to being in the hospital, and I am sure I am forgetting more. This Fraud took 10k from me that was money raised by a go fund me after my home was destroyed and my family almost killed and has done NOTHING for me in 3.5 years. I went to the courthouse and pulled my file to find that the judge had dismissed my case because of REPEATED failures to respond to the requests to the defendants and making categorically outrageous requests of the court. I am now beginning to work with the Bar to go after Jim Scott. and I recommend you ALL STAY AWAY from this charlatan !!!
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03 Apr, 2017 by Jeff
I can't thank Jim enough. I had a little too much to drink one night and made a mistake. I ended up getting pulled over and blew a 0.09 and was charged with a DUI. Jim was able to have my DUI dismissed. I did end up doing my fair share of community service, but I was more than happy to do.
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26 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Larry Dillow is an outstanding attorney. He was willing to fight for my rights every step of the way and gained a positive outcome. He showed care and concern and always made time to listen to me. He was always available to me for questions and concerns. He treats his clients with respect and kindness. I can't thank him enough for his knowledge and compassion to my situation. Today I consider him a very respectful member of the legal community and a true friend.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
When entered court he had no knowledge of my case. Was not willing to fight for me, just wanted to plea it out, with victim there willing to admit to lying.
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05 Aug, 2013 by Michelle
Not impressed. I was highly recommended to Joe Baker by others, but they hype did not live up to his performance in my case. He was very hard to get in touch with, and rarely returned calls. He did nothing to prepare for my case until the day before we had court!
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21 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Went to Mr. Baker with DUI 2nd charge and about 5 others. All charges were either dropped or reduced. My fines were next to nothing and spent no time in jail other than the initial arrest. He is very good at his job and will get you the results you want. Not great at keeping you informed though. Overall I was more than satisfied with the results.
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13 Mar, 2014 by Genise knight
Anita is an awesome attorney and I'm really happy with her representation. I used her in a matter not too long ago and overall I'm more than pleased with everything. She kept me informed every step of the way and was able to answer every single question I had for her. She fully informed me of my civil rights and did an outstanding job at the preliminary hearing! She fought very hard and was able to show the court that one of my charges was without merit and actually got it dismissed!! I think we should be more grateful to those people, such as Anita, who take the time to try to help us. I know the Public Defenders office is swamped and even with that said, they are still able to get the job done, and efficiently!
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31 Oct, 2011 by Bobbie ramsey
she has no idea of you constitutional or civil rights or is to intimidated or lazy to research and argue them. My husband who only has a ged was able to fix it on his own in less than a week. She WOULD NOT protect my eighth ammendment rights, had no clue of federal code 46, the bail act of 1966, or the bail reform act of 1984. WOW!!!!!
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13 Aug, 2015 by Bill
I have had occasion to use the services of Mr. Overbay. He is very knowledgable and knows his way around the criminal justice system. I would recommend him if you need legal help.
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11 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
He does return phone calls, does contact clients. This is after he has been retained. Do not use this lawer if you need legal help!
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19 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to Mr. Nimmo for needed help for divorce. My wife had left me high and dry after 10 years, and hired a pitbull, man-hating lawyer for herselg.fShe left me without telling me, took thousands of dollars, and half the assets in the home. I was going through depression, and have no family in TN. I needed a lawyer who was fierce, intense, thorough, and reassuring. Mr. Nimmo was none of these. He rarely if ever answered my calls, E-Mails, or texts, and it took almost a year for a very simple divorce to take place. I know it was simple because even my ex-wife wanted it simple. He was not willing to do anything I asked, and paid him to do. My ex-wife violated at least 3 court orders. Not once did he file for a hearing on this. I would not recommend this attorney for anything. One time, he even accysed me of being a day late to my appointment when he clearly knew it was on Thursday (not Wednesday, as that is my church night, and I would never schedule an appointment on Wednesday). When I got to his house, he said, "You're a day late." Are you kidding me!? He also was very unsympathetic of my situation, and even was going to have the final decree written to favor my ex-wife!! Ugh!! Do not use this attorney.
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21 May, 2016 by Jerrika
R Price Nimmo is such an amazing man! He has helped me get through a difficult situation that was affecting my life! He is truly an amazing lawyer and person. I thank God so much that he took my case and did everything he could to take care of it. I am so thankful for him and God is so gracious and I thank the Lord for sending him my way. Thank you again R. Nimmo. -Jerrika
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07 Jul, 2019 by Adam
I had 3 charges. The worst he got dropped. Only charged 1/3 of every other atty wanted for the same case.
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30 Aug, 2016 by Billy wayne stoops
I had a court appointed laywer.He failed to file the writ of certiorari which stopped the appeal.The Tennessee Court of Appeals contacted the lawyer,they found problems in my transctript. It was only 43 years later that I found this out.The state had no proof,no weapon,no money,and no witness's.The Tennessee Appeals set aside my verdict and reinstated it to give the lawyer more time to file the writ of certiorari.If he had done so my sentence would probably have been over turned and I would have been freed.He still never filed and the court agreed that I had ineffective assistance of counsel. I am only asking to have this expunged from my record.I served the time all those years ago. You are that Lawyer. The Tennessee board of parole will not help unless you will send me a letter stating why you did not file the writ of cert. I spent four and a half years in prison for a crime I did not do. And 48 years later I am still being punished. I just want my record cleared. The Tennessee court of appeals set aside my conviction so you would have more time to file. They said in their judgement that they contacted you, But you still never filed. Please you can help and make a big different in my life Thank you in advance for your time and trouble. BILLY
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14 Jan, 2022 by Trey
Mr. Pate has repeatedly dropped the ball on my case. Rescheduling court dates without my approval, refusing to do anything that I ask of him and now has blocked my phone number and has ignored multiple emails. He never even sounded like he understood what was going on in my case.
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10 Feb, 2013 by Amanda b
He is a wonderful lawyer. I can not say enough. He listens well, he is quiet, however when he speaks it is what needs to be said. He is very good!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Jasmine taylor
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22 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly phillips
They have been amazing working with my daddy getting things done to make sure he being taken care of! Would highly recommend them
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22 Oct, 2024 by Tracy teal
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09 Aug, 2024 by Janet
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22 Jun, 2024 by Gaby d t
RUN DO NOT HIRE THIS LAWYER!!! HE WOULD FILE FALSE STATEMENTS INFORMATION!!! HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Marcia del toro
He is about to get reported to the border school of attorney for filing wrong motions and petition for child custody in the wrong state when there is NO jurisdiction there for the child!!!! Him knowing the child didn’t reside there!!! Unethical and unprofessional!!!HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Caleb gilbreath
I would stay far, far away from this office. My wife and I retained Kline and had a horrendous experience. I would describe him as incompetent, uncommunicative, and dishonest. Without going into painstaking detail of all our grievances, I will say that it was next to impossible to receive any meaningful work or communication from Kline and the office. We actually missed a response deadline with the court in our case because of a supposed “lost email”. We initially paid a retainer to Kline and were told, in writing, that we would be notified when our retainer was exhausted so that we could discuss how to proceed. Instead, we suddenly received an invoice for thousands of dollars, informing us that our retainer had been used up for weeks. When I pointed out the clause in our agreement regarding our retainer, Kline abruptly responded that we should seek new counsel. I would strongly discourage anyone from retaining the services of this office
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11 Aug, 2024 by Caleb
I would stay far, far away from this office. My wife and I retained Kline and had a horrendous experience. I would describe him as incompetent, uncommunicative, and dishonest. Without going into painstaking detail of all our grievances, I will say that it was next to impossible to receive any meaningful work or communication from Kline and the office. We actually missed a response deadline with the court in our case because of a supposed “lost email”. We initially paid a retainer to Kline and were told, in writing, that we would be notified when our retainer was exhausted so that we could discuss how to proceed. Instead, we suddenly received an invoice for thousands of dollars, informing us that our retainer had been used up for weeks. When I pointed out the clause in our agreement regarding our retainer, Kline abruptly responded that we should seek new counsel. I would strongly discourage anyone from retaining the services of this office
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03 Jan, 2022 by Robert shanley
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03 May, 2024 by Amanda estes
I sincerely wish I could give Mr. Colley 5 stars but I just can't. My son had a difficult case for sure. We took a deal that he told us would result in a better outcome. We were all totally unprepared for court. He spent little time helping us and pawned us off on another attorney for appeal when our case went south. He has too many clients and not enough time for them. Zero....I mean zero preparation for what to expect in court. We all had letters written and in actuality we were called to the stand and questioned. I hear he works miracles for others, but I sincerely think our family lost terribly because of his busyness. Do not recommend.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Shirlene cooper
John Colley is a consummate professional. He is very detailed and compassionate to his clients. I highly recommend this law firm.
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09 Jan, 2023 by Kimberly johnson
Best lawyer around so I've been told. Pray he is for what I paid
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02 Mar, 2022 by Dwight bowling
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16 Sep, 2020 by Steven&carrie king
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11 Sep, 2020 by Steven king
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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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