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20 Aug, 2021 by Kim
Refused to take time to prepare my case and tried to just wing it. Yelled at me outside of the courtroom that the judge wasn’t going to rule in my favor and might as well get it out of my head. She was socializing and laughing it up with the other party in the hall while I sat by myself going through the hardest time of my life.
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25 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Juvenile problem, Ann was a super attorney. She explained everything very clearly to my son. He knew what was going on and why. She was very knowledgeable and very accessible. I would recommend her for any juvenile problem.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Take this review and consider it a sign. Do not go to this man for law help. It will do you no good and you will be set further back then where you started.
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01 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
sam took my case in aug of 2015, I paid him over $10,600 for retainer, plus if we go to trial there would be another payment of $14,400. the case was delayed close to a year, I ran out of money at the current time. sam told me to plead to the charges of guilty, I told him no, he informed after collecting the $10600 two months later that I was guilty. sam withdrew from case I was left with nothing, I was appointed a public defender that has given me hope in case. all I want is half of my retainer back sam does 50 hrs wrapped up maybe 20 hrs. Please do all your research before contacting sam, I was referred to him, I put my faith into what he told me......
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06 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
My husband, son and myself highly recommend Mr. Eidy. We always felt informed about the whole process. Mr. Eidy was quick to return phone calls, went out of way to collect evidence, and was never demeaning to my son. After he won my son's case he called a week later for follow up to make sure the family was ok. His personal touch was not expected but was appreciated.
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18 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
One star is too high. No representation is better than throwing away money hiring Lorin Zaner who will do nothing on your behalf other than bad-mouth you, fail to review documents, fail to pay attention to anything related to your case and then remove himself as your attorney happily keeping your money and billing you for doing that. Just because he won a handful of high-profile criminal cases, doesn't make him a good attorney. He is arrogant, rude, nasty and unprofessional. I think good reviews for him are fake. Talk to his real former clients and you will hear horror stories about him. Look at the court docket. Not even bad performance..just nothing except assuring cases are continued until his clients are fully destroyed. Usually this means you ran out of money and /or he quit your case making sure to let everyone know you're horrible.
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13 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Unprepared, seemed to have no time for my case. Always playing defense in my divorce proceedings. Never an answer for anything. Any of the things that actually got accomplished in my case, I researched and did on my own. Case drug out for years with 10's of thousands in legal bills. Part of the good 'ol boy system in the corrupt lucas county domestic relations court.
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26 Jun, 2011 by Leah
Mr. Zaner is not only personable and available - he is the most knowledgeable lawyer I've ever had the pleasure to work with - the only one I will ever work with again.
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17 Jun, 2023 by Tamara
He will take your money & never return phone calls. All he do is plea out he shows no fight in him. He works for prosecution & the judge not you. He make you want to risk it all & hurt him cause he playing around with people lives. Complete failure please do not hire him in my opinion he needs to retire!!!
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08 Jul, 2013 by Carey
He said all the things you want to hear but was never organized didn't prepare the proper paper work and over all dropped the ball. He kept on apologizing and was telling me he would do better. I would not use this lawyer unless you want to lose and spend a lot of money. He will not fight for you.
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08 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
I'll keep it short. Didn't know Ohio driving laws or procedure for driving privileges and failed to inform me that a temporary ID could be obtained. I was also told that Ohio does not have a grace period for licenses that have been expired. If anyone has any questions on my statements I have all the voice messages stating the above in my google voice. She was also late to my pretrial.Did not say anything about me personally to the judge and simply did a "smile and nod" skit.
There is more but honestly that is all that really stuck out and irritated me. I wasn't able to obtain my driving privileges and was told that I would never get them. I actually contacted the courts and was given the go ahead to get them. I actually got the judge to sign off on the privileges. The lack of effort shown by Ms. Akande not only baffles me but every cop, clerk and lawyer I have told my FULL story to.
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10 Oct, 2023 by Brandon
Don’t waste your time with Tammy Harmon at Lawrence law office or that office. Tammy charges outrageous rates and for NOTHING! Went to court for us talked a big game at the “consultation” that’s was supposed to be FREE. Went to court Tammy showed up like she just rolled outta bed also. Then when we get into the court room Tammy doesn’t barely speak lost the case straight off even the judge new that it was a lie Tammy had ALL the proof but sat there and looked like a puppy along with the owner Rod Lawrence at Lawrence law. Also we won’t talk about where Tammy thought it was her job to call the defendant on your own time and turn around and CHARGE ME 75$! Get a grip that’s not her job to contact them! Do yourself a favor and don’t hire her or Lawrence law.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Jessica powers
Absolutely the worst attorney I have ever had the misfortune of dealing with. Gerbitz represented my husband on charges that were dismissed due to lack of evidence and my husband being innocent. Subsequently Gerbitz advised my husband to plead guilty to a failure to appear on the dropped charges and lied to me and my husband telling us that if he pled guilty he would be given time served, three months he had been incarcerated and that my husband would be released that day. In reality my husband was sentenced to 13 months in a maximum security facility North Central Correctional center with the worst of the worst. Gerbitz was verbal abusive to my husband and family he was impossible to get in touch with. He never provided my husband or family with the motion of discovery. He screamed at my husband at court when asked if anyone promised you anything to take this plea. My husband didn't have a criminal history and is a hard worker and my families main provider. He was also his mother's caregiver and responsible for making any and all major and financial decisions. Without him we are most likely going to lose everything we have and his mother's health has substantially declined. I believe he should lose his license to practice law in Ohio due to his misconduct and deliberately lying to his clients and withholding necessary information. I absolutely believe he is corrupt and violated my husband's rights. Meanwhile my husband sits in prison and my family struggles and day by day we lose more and more and sink lower in to financial ruin and despair. There are no records in online searches of my husband's charge or sentence only the docket and notes stating the case was dismissed and no jail sentence was given. Why is my husband in prison? Something very wrong is going on here. I will get to the bottom of it. Gerbitz will be held accountable for his actions. He might have gotten away with this with others but he won't go without some type of investigation and repercussion regarding this case. I intend to see to it.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
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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.
