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07 May, 2013 by Russell
My son got a DUI related charges in 2010. After a not guilt plea and after multiple unsuccessful attempts to communicate with his first public defendant he was forced fire ("waive the right to council") for his first two public defenders. He did, however, get them to "start the clock": a motion under Rule 8 (right to a speedy trial). He simply wanted his lawyer(s) to subpoena all signed paper work including all documents and AZPOST certifications etc, everything the prosecution is supposed to have in the discovery period which is way before the trial. This is where they began to really drag their feet and not communicate. It really makes one wonder who they are really defending. He then got Elizabeth Brunner for a public defender. She was able to resist the impulse to make a deal behind closed doors with the prosecution as we saw them try at the last hearing. That seems to be so very common in their business. On his last hearing, as it never went to trail, Beth presented the facts that prosecution never produced any of the subpoenaed material and that time was already up under rule 8. Prosecutor was obviously overworked, disorganized or thinking we would just reschedule again, not so. Judge decided to dismiss with prejudice. That means it cannot be brought up in that court again. You should have seen the look that the prosecutor lady gave us as we were leaving the court house downstairs. It was truly the "evil eye", almost as if we were trying to destroy her carrier an she swore vengeance. I'm not exaggerating. Just now, Beth has promptly returned my call.This was about the civil side of this nightmare known as MVD. She explained that we have togo to MVD because his license is still suspended! This was my son's fault for not doing what Beth told him to do back after dismissal. We're to pay the reinstatement fee and have them "Void the suspension". Thank you Beth Brunner.
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17 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
He’s awesome let me put it that way, super attentive and always answers me back in a timely manner. I know people who have had lawyers who barley contact them but not Bart. He’s super nice and does his best to help me in any way he can.
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19 Aug, 2022 by Danielle
I just wanted to reach out and say, in 2002, after a dui arrest-- the breathalyzer test was collected improperly, Judge Segal was very through with hearing the Motion to Suppress evidence, and she did rule to suppress. I think Las Cruces, NM lost a valuable member of our community, one with integrity, and she served the community, not just the DA. I still have my Legal Segal election gavel pencil. She is on the true side of justice. Wish we had more like her in every state.
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23 Dec, 2016 by Ernest
She will go behind your back and discuss your case with your employer without your permission ( Pro Bono )
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12 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. DiRoberto, not only handled my case in a timely manner with the utmost care and concern, but also treated my family and I, with the highest level of patience and respect, and at such a comparatively low and fair price. Almost immediately, you will notice this man truly cares about people, and is not just trying to make a quick buck, which many lawyers unfortunately do, today. Mr DiRoberto is as honest as he is intelligent.
I didn't expect to receive such a superb legal representative, especially concerning such a significant case, or even worse, a possible conviction, which would have ruined my life, as I knew it. Thanks to (God) and Mr DiRoberto's expertise my case was dismissed, when my name was called, and nothing was further was ever required or mandated.
It was an unfortunate situation, but the overall experience was pretty much a win/win for ALL parties, as I am sure everyone took something positive home with them, that day (and thing continue to get better). Thanks again, Joseph DiRoberto!
A good lawyer knows, that ALL people make mistakes, even the people, who are trying to do the right thing, that is how we learn from our mistakes, and try to prevent them from happening again. When we are unable to communicate for ourselves properly (in court), we can potentially make the situation worse than it began, which I can relate to.
I would, and do recommend this lawyer to all those I know, who are in need of legal services. I still continue to, and would use his services first before anyone else near Sierra Vista, AZ, if I needed legal service/advice, again in the future. And Thank you for your time and consideration.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Joe hoffman
13 Aug, 2024 by Susan garcia
Alison was a complete partner in my dad's estate. She guided me and helped me through the whole process. She is very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Arthur murray doan
This Paralegal was on point, prompt and Trustworthy
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20 Feb, 2024 by Armando montano
Excelente servicio de parte del Lic Jonathan Solórzano y de su equipo de trabajo, el proceso de inmigración fue de lo más profesional y eficiente, contestando todas nuestras preguntas y guiándonos durante el proceso, muchas gracias, bendiciones a todos!!!!!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Erickw menñdez
Muy profeciona recomendable
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08 Feb, 2024 by Nineth leal
Recomendable firma ayudo a mi familia
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03 Jun, 2024 by Patrick grimes
I highly recommend Patrick; he gives lawyers a good name. Mr. Moran was knowledgeable, professional, personable and reasonably priced. Thank you Patrick!
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24 Aug, 2023 by Jennifer tisdale
This man is outstanding. He helped my family through an intense crisis and we couldn't have asked for a better outcome. He is amazing and we are forever in his debt.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Tom leggett
I'm so incredibly happy with Patrick Moran's services. My son received a speeding ticket and Patrick was able to help me navigate the court system and have the points and fine reduced significantly - more than I would have thought possible!
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10 Jun, 2023 by Jennifer becker
No-nonsense, highly experienced, professional, and notably superior to my other limited experiences with lawyers.
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02 Nov, 2021 by O k
07 May, 2021 by Kelsey thompson
03 Nov, 2020 by Alika medina
30 Oct, 2020 by Anthony prieto
31 Jul, 2024 by Seth
After having issues with a previous attorney with trust and competency, I was relieved to have been appointed Mr. Ezzo. He really does his best to make your case and doesn't just treat you like a frisbee that he wants thrown off his plate. After speaking with Mr. Ezzo my anxieties are lowered and I have more confidence in my case.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Shawn
Trevor is an excellent criminal defense attorney. He has an awesome paralegal who is very attentive to the clients needs. Watching Trevor in action in a trial was absolutely amazing. I would hire Trevor Hill again for our legal needs.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Dawn riherd
10 May, 2024 by Patricia mcmahan
Requested a consult last night, received a personal phone call from Matt this morning. My needs for an attorney do not match his specialty so he was upfront and honest, provided referrals and gave a little bit of advice. Really appreciate his down to earth attitude and honesty, he was very easy to talk to. Will use him in the future if something arises. Thank you again Matt! :)
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06 May, 2024 by Michael rochin
Matt was the consummate professional and made my Ch7 seamless and painless. He genuinely cares about his clients and their circumstances. I recommend his services without reservation .
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20 Aug, 2024 by N f
Zac went above and beyond to help me with my divorce case. It was a complicated case that had several components to it. I’m so thankful that I had his help during a difficult time in my life. He is patient and listens to your concerns. He is very responsive and takes the time to explain things to you . He is extremely knowledgeable in law and was able to get me everything I deserved and more . I would highly recommend him to anyone needing his services. I’m thankful for everything he did for me.
Thank you Zac you are the best!!!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Hamza touhami
Mr. Sapier has provided me with excellent feedback and advice without even retaining him. He has shown extreme professionalism and compassion to a difficult matter concerning my child. I wholeheartadly recommend him for anyone looking for an attorney that puts his clients first. A+
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24 Jul, 2024 by Katgamer 17
I would give zero stars if I could but Zach spanier is an absolute moron, refuses to do any record research with clients, refuses to follow court orders, keeps harassing the other party about following court orders when he himself has done nothing. He is nothing but a judgmental, rude, a moron and possibly performing illegal activities due to his behavior with clients and other parties. I suggest he do better and grow up.
Edit : defamatory and false? This is all my experience as a client. Zach spanier is nothing but a liar and will not admit when he has lost. I wouldn’t trust unless you’re a scumbag like himself
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14 Oct, 2024 by Selena m lua
11 Oct, 2024 by Richard white
I had an issue that greatly concerned me. Elias provided concise, effective and extremely useful information that put all of my concerns to rest. I found him to be very knowledgeable, compassionate and caring. I highly recommend him for any legal needs.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Ruben betancourt
Robert Fee was very helpful, clear and informative in the consultation provided. We left feeling comfortable with the advise given to us.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Selena m lua
11 Oct, 2024 by Richard white
I had an issue that greatly concerned me. Elias provided concise, effective and extremely useful information that put all of my concerns to rest. I found him to be very knowledgeable, compassionate and caring. I highly recommend him for any legal needs.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Ruben betancourt
Robert Fee was very helpful, clear and informative in the consultation provided. We left feeling comfortable with the advise given to us.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Richard white
I had an issue that greatly concerned me. Elias provided concise, effective and extremely useful information that put all of my concerns to rest. I found him to be very knowledgeable, compassionate and caring. I highly recommend him for any legal needs.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Lovely basil
I’ve called a few attorneys and haven’t heard back. Divine the paralegal was very kind and called me back the same day! Even though I couldn’t afford much she gave me different options and talked me through the process. Never want a ticket ever again but I 100% recommend them if your looking for help!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Lisa remington
Amanda is an Absolute Amazing lawyer!! She went above and beyond! Thanks to her we won my case!! Her office staff is also so friendly and always made sure I knew when court was and answered any questions I had. I wouldn’t want anyone else on my side but AJB Law Firm!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Richard white
I had an issue that greatly concerned me. Elias provided concise, effective and extremely useful information that put all of my concerns to rest. I found him to be very knowledgeable, compassionate and caring. I highly recommend him for any legal needs.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Lovely basil
I’ve called a few attorneys and haven’t heard back. Divine the paralegal was very kind and called me back the same day! Even though I couldn’t afford much she gave me different options and talked me through the process. Never want a ticket ever again but I 100% recommend them if your looking for help!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Lisa remington
Amanda is an Absolute Amazing lawyer!! She went above and beyond! Thanks to her we won my case!! Her office staff is also so friendly and always made sure I knew when court was and answered any questions I had. I wouldn’t want anyone else on my side but AJB Law Firm!
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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.
