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4.1
32 Reviews
09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Evan bassett
I have custody of my daughter again, due to the representation of Jeremy Levy and his team.
I was fighting a case, and it seemed the court was against me. Everything seemed hopeless, as it seemed the judge and magistrate were not adhering to the law. To that extent, my previous lawyer filed to be withdrawn from the case.
I made my mind up. This time I was going to find the best lawyer and put an end to the injustice happening to me. I found that lawyer in Jeremy Levy.
Professional and affirmative, every step of the way. I could call 10 times a day or 1 time a month. Every time we spoke, he was just as passionate as in my initial consultation.
Every motion filed, every law show I have seen, seems illiterate. From strategy and timing, to research and sense of urgency, NO ONE could hope for a better lawyer.
We fought tooth and nail and prevailed. My daughter is back home with me, and life is back to normal after such a scary hiatus. All thanks to Levy and Levy.
PS. While he was in court, I heard even the bailiffs say to each other “man that Jeremy is a bulldog”
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28 Oct, 2024 by Cody reardon
I hired Jeremy Levy to assist me in obtaining shared parenting for my son. Unfortunately, my experience was extremely disappointing. Despite my clear desire for more time with my child, the outcome of the case was far from satisfactory. I was awarded visitation only on Wednesdays for 2 and half hours and every other weekend. When I expressed my desire for a reevaluation of the custody arrangement, Jeremy Levy advised me to wait for a year. This delay seemed unreasonable, and I felt as though my child's best interests were not being adequately considered. I would not recommend Jeremy Levy to anyone seeking legal representation in family law matters.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Samuel meier
Jeremy and his staff are great. If you want a lawyer who truly cares look no further.
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29 Aug, 2024 by David bermejo
Fantastic lawyer!! Awesome guy, and he will fight for you as if he was fighting for his own flesh and blood!! And at an extremely reasonable price!! Definitely made my life much more easier and less anxiety ridden with just a few calls and a quick visit to the court house :) I love this guy!! Thanks Tom!!!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Sonya williams
06 Feb, 2024 by Lena brewer
12 Feb, 2025 by Alex sauceda
I got a $800 quote from one place so I called this place up. Catherine Meham gave me a quote for "15 Grand" I thought she meant hundred but nope she said grand! I'm still kind of in shock haha
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10 Jan, 2025 by Joy kruse
Patituce & Associates truly saved my bacon! They were competent, and I appreciated that they kept me informed at every stage. Having a team that actually cared about my situation was nice.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Joyce beatty
It was such a relief to work with Patituce & Associates! They made me feel supported and truly took the time to explain everything. The outcome was better than I expected, and I'm so glad I chose them!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Justin berry
Very professional and confident. Highly recommend.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Dannielle laplante
Her prices are reasonable… because she is awesome attorney.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Wilma ayala
I highly recommend Jeff Levy. He has been my attorney for 40+ years and has never let me down.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Martin hamernik
Yeah, I had some issues with my child support at one point in time and I had to use them. He gave me my retainer all the way back thank you, David.
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15 Oct, 2024 by De ke
09 Oct, 2024 by Walt s
Excellent communication and service! Very helpful and ready with the information I needed.
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12 Aug, 2022 by Andrew
Does not answer or return phone calls. Does not answer emails. The only place I got a response was Facebook and at first whoever answered on there said "Sarah cannot represent you." Then, whoever answered on Facebook said they would look at my charges. Then they stopped responding to me altogether. Facebook account shows no posts at all since 2020. I am a white male; I am not Middle Eastern nor female so maybe that's what the deal is.
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24 Jul, 2019 by Cheyenne
Sarah is amazing. She is focused and does what she needs to for her clients. Sarah represented me for a minor traffic ticket for forgetting to register my truck as it was a lease. After explaining my situation to the prosecutor, the charge was dismissed.
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21 Jun, 2019 by Laura
Miss Anjum did an excellent job for me. Showed me true compassion and concern for my legal issues. Highly impressed.
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03 May, 2024 by Drew hertzfeld
Chris is a nice guy and has always helped me out when I brought him tickets. I would recommend him to anyone.
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02 May, 2024 by Allyson alcorn
He was spot on with how the proceedings would go Everytime. Didn't charge an arm and leg and half my soul like all other attorneys I called. He really is the best.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Nate a
If Joe Biden was a lawyer. Public defender would have done more.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Carlotta thomas
Mrs Linda Yaccarino,was exceptionally helpful,kind and patient. the whole team was very helpful I'm very grateful.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Tonya haskins
15 Oct, 2024 by Christina tritt
My name is Robby Corpening and Ms Linda Reid was my case manager I want to take a moment and thank your firm for allowing her to work on my case she went above and beyond to help me understand the process and made me very comfortable if the attorneys were that focused and caring this would had been an outstanding experience never the less Ms Reid made up and without thoughts she has to be a top paralegal with your firm again thank you for Ms Reid!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Shortleggs358
Great lawyer, listen to you, and get the job done. He is the best
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18 Mar, 2024 by Adam golday
18 Mar, 2024 by Aric salyers
A+++++
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jaclyn palmer
I chose the Kalniz firm, because my mother worked for one of its predecessor firms, decades ago. I met with attorney Epstein, last week, to review needed changes to my will, due to changes in my family circumstances, and I gave him written notes regarding the changes I wanted to make. The initial draft I received back from attorney Epstein had a section that was inconsistent with my notes and inconsistent with what I was trying to effectuate. I sent him a marked-up version of the draft, correcting that section, correcting one typo, and crossing out one word in another section that didn’t make sense to me, in context. I came in, today, to sign what I thought would be the final document. The problematic section had been partially revised, but it retained the word “neither,” where it should have said “either,” which was a meaningful difference. In addition, the one word I had crossed out in a different section had not been deleted. When I pointed those two items out to attorney Epstein, (which could have easily been addressed), he responded by telling me he was right and I was wrong, but that I should do whatever I wanted. When I asked him to explain, he told me the word I crossed out shouldn’t have been crossed out, because he meant for the reference to be there. When I tried to explain why I had crossed the word out, he reiterated that I was wrong, but should do whatever I wanted. I told him I was trying to understand and that it was unacceptable for him to just tell me that I’m wrong but to go ahead and do whatever I wanted. He told me he didn’t care what was unacceptable and that maybe I should take my will elsewhere to have it done. I told him I would. After today’s interaction, one thing I know, for certain, is that I came to the wrong place.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Roxanne collum-snider
I called and spoke with Mr. Kalnix. He was so nice and understanding. We will be picking up this week hopefully because of the holidays and my case is very odd so I understand how difficult it will be to start getting things going. I'm looking forward to working with him and his staff
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18 Sep, 2019 by Lisa blake
Strong advocate
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11 Sep, 2024 by Oren morton
Jill handled our adoption process and we were highly pleased. Thank you.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jackie rasmussen
Beautiful building inside, very nice people, only a few minutes wait to be seen. Attorneys very nice. I guess we will just have to let it play out and see what happens.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Debby maras
20 Jan, 2014 by Shannon
Scott has been my attorney for years and is very trustworthy and Knowledgeable. He has a good relationship with most if not all the Lucas county Judges and Prosecutors and that alone can get you far. He always exceeds my expectations. He is a little slow at responding but best believe he gets the job done
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03 May, 2024 by Drew hertzfeld
Chris is a nice guy and has always helped me out when I brought him tickets. I would recommend him to anyone.
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02 May, 2024 by Allyson alcorn
He was spot on with how the proceedings would go Everytime. Didn't charge an arm and leg and half my soul like all other attorneys I called. He really is the best.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Nate a
If Joe Biden was a lawyer. Public defender would have done more.
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15 Sep, 2024 by David lopez
11 Sep, 2024 by Joey holston
Lawyer absolutely sucks! Literally greedy! Took the whole settlement money to himself!!!! Only gave me 2thousand 🤦🏻♂️ my body my back is literally still in pain til the this day. I wouldn’t lie about this! He only cares about himself & his family! I would not recommend him as a lawyer especially if ur biracial or black.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Scott b
Mr. Johnson and his staff did a great job keeping me informed throughout the entire process and delivering in the end!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Fame less
I only have experience with Bill Goseline, and I am shocked by his inability to deliver what he promises. Bill Goseline has yet to keep his word and produce documents requested of him, despite more than a month having past since he agreed to share them. Bill Goseline avoided answering me for nearly a year before that, and only responded when asked by a fellow attorney. He treated me like I didn't exist, and still can't keep his promise to a fellow counselor. I believe his conduct is in violation of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct. I do not know if the firm of Schumaker is aware of his defiance of repeated requests for documents, I only know of my communication with Bill. He has failed to fulfill his obligations in direct opposition to proper ethics, with no regard for the people he is impacting.
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17 May, 2024 by Thomas gio
John Siciliano lied to me several times, saying he would help me get a refund because the situation was not normal. He proposed me to write a letter with my engagement (even though it was illegal and will deny it as always), only to later claim he never requested this ans refuse my engagement. He was saying contradictory things during our communication... He trusts his team, who lied to me multiple times and had no proof over my countless evidence. As always, they will deny and say it was not true or I didn't understand, despite my having all the proof.
I do not recommend working with this law firm: Shumaker. They are liars, the managers validate the lies of their team (even when they have no proof), and they don't answer to the clients. If I could give 0/5, I would. Please don't waste your money and go work with real professionals! They are the worst business I have ever worked with.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Ashley m. nonnenman
Excellent firm full of excellent attorneys, paralegals, and assistants! Highly recommend Rebecca or Tre if you’re in the Toledo, OH area!
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30 Dec, 2024 by Albert bryant
It takes to long to get things done and these white girls in the office hang up on you. I don't like people who keep giving me the run around.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Andrew carroll
06 Dec, 2023 by Sherrod thompson
20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her services again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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29 May, 2024 by Sk young
Laurie Kendall is very nice and understanding. She's not a "bulldog" lawyer and certainly does not have an aggressive approach, however I found that her approach to my situation was probably the best approach there was. She seemed to genuinely want to help, and her prices are fairly reasonable.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jessica resnick
Do not recommend. Happy to be done working with her.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
5.0
2 Reviews
3.6
39 Reviews
20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anthony c.
Mrs. Haberland went above and beyond to help me in a Child Support case. She was very honest and very professional and because of her expertise, everything came out fair and square the way it should have. I highly recommend her to anybody, especially your fathers out there who have struggled with an unbalanced system.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Curtis green
08 Jul, 2024 by Daniel gearing
I wouldn't use him again told me it would cost 5000$ to go to trial for full custody of my daughter . 2 court dates"1-2hr" and a hearing over phone"1 hr" settled for joint custody and all 5000$ is gone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer eitniear
if your looking for the absolute best attorney , that is well renown in all courtrooms as well as highly favored by our judges and magistrates , you have found "The Best" in the area and arena...
remember though , you get what you pay for and really his retainers are on par with other attorneys with less experience, and not so favored in courtrooms.
do yourself a favor and retain this guy!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Curtis green
08 Jul, 2024 by Daniel gearing
I wouldn't use him again told me it would cost 5000$ to go to trial for full custody of my daughter . 2 court dates"1-2hr" and a hearing over phone"1 hr" settled for joint custody and all 5000$ is gone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer eitniear
if your looking for the absolute best attorney , that is well renown in all courtrooms as well as highly favored by our judges and magistrates , you have found "The Best" in the area and arena...
remember though , you get what you pay for and really his retainers are on par with other attorneys with less experience, and not so favored in courtrooms.
do yourself a favor and retain this guy!
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Michael smith
Linda Jones is a very caring individual who won my disability case for me I'm extremely pleased with her services and I would highly recommend her.
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22 May, 2024 by Cheri fisher
04 May, 2024 by Jerry hackett
it was good 👍😊
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03 Nov, 2021 by Darlene ernsberger
Mr. Shook WAS kind, caring and patient. I would have recommended him to anyone needing help. Now I've been asking him for over 2 mos to help me follow up with my previous case, (I believe it is simple) and for 6 mos to help to help to finish [my Final Wishes paperwork, DNR orders and my WILL which we began together, when I need help, and he just disappeared !i CANNOT GET A RETURN call or even a text when I really need his assistance with a previous case, and he has my MOST IIMPORTANT paper work! I will respond to this positively WHENEVER HE DOES!! I do not know Why I am being ignored my bill was paid at the time in full. And as good and helpful as he once was, Now I am feeling neglected and unimportant on 2 issues. I even delivered personally a hand written hand delivered letter to his office in Toledo begging him to PLEASE contact me because of the urgency and still no reply. WHY????
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15 Feb, 2018 by Albert
David is a amazing lawyer and he truly cares about his clients. He helps us get our daughter out of a harmful environment. We are beyond grateful to him.
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11 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
He is a good attorney. He tends to not be much on the aggressive side. I would still recommend him. I have paid him good money, and offering to pay more for a divorce. He tends to buy into the opposition's games.
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19 Feb, 2023 by Lmc
RCO Law doesn't hold their bad actor attys accountable nor do they intervene, when given opportunity to correct problems such bad attys create. They take money, prepaid, to handle family estate, will, admin then WALK.
Won't refund prepaid monies nor return family phone calls.
Don't bother to file complaint with the ABA, since the ABA is literally weaponized to support even the worst, most horrific of attorneys which give the profession it's already dull reputation. Get your documentation together along with summary of grievances and file PROMPTLY WITH THE ATTORNEY GRIEVANCE COMMISSION in whichever state RCO law was involved in slothful, slipshod, fraudulent activity.
Apparently RCO law does have satellite offices, some even in diff states at one time. Who knows where these spineless cretins work now, at this point.
Possibly there are a few bad in amongst the few, but I wouldn't know since after they walked with big $$$ for estate plan plus post decedent actions, plan left incomplete as assigned atty failed to honor any appts scheduled for near year -plan left incomplete and UNSIGNED because of RCO BAD ACTOR "atty".
When I did reach out to RCO about mess left behind by their atty -NO RESPONSE. So this also means that we received NO REFUND, also. At this point, it's not even about the refund, but the now near 9 year probate fight fight and majority of multi-millions in assets that have VAPORIZED.
When offered the chance to step up FOR THE CLIENT FAMILY ILL SERVED BY ONE OF THEIR EMPLOYEES, RCO JUST DISAPPEARS AS DOES THEIR CLIIENT-VICTIMS MONEY.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Jeffrey wirebaugh
04 Jan, 2020 by Theo lake
Great Law Firm
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17 Aug, 2024 by Chucky barto
Only gave them a 2 star because I used Amanda Coyle and she was Amazing in my first child support case. Mr. Restivo on the other hand laid an egg! We came up with a game plan in court and completely ignored it and argued everything he said wouldn’t make a difference. Couldn’t even get me an 10% deviation with an 210 day overnight custody order. Amanda Coyle or no one in my opinion at this firm.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Douglas sturt
16 May, 2024 by Andrew price
Food was really good, good service and a clean place.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jean billops
The best lawyer in Toledo
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mousa baker
08 Jul, 2024 by Kevin
Great lawyers and staff
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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06 Dec, 2017 by Sylvie
I hired vesper in a on going custody case and he was by far the most experienced and kind attorney i have meet yet to date. I was awarded custody because of his hard work and dedication to his practice. Honest fair and caring . i will alway use him and recomend him to any one needing legal advice. Thank you vesper .
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28 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
In early Dec., 2016 I contacted him to request a will, a name change, and a letter demanding my house keys back from my mother. To date (1/27/17), he has not assisted me with any of these issues. In fact, he told me that I owed him for a will that he had drafted for me in 2011. That will did not express my intentions, so I did not sign it and he never billed me. I will not utilize his services again and would not recommend him to anyone else.
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17 Feb, 2015 by Andrew
very understanding of people and there problems , will make you a friend more than a client and will always have the best solutions for you problem keeping your best interest in mind highly recommended
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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.
