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09 Nov, 2024 by Peter vlassis
05 Apr, 2024 by Austin jorgensen
I had a detailed real estate inquiry and my call was returned within hours the same day with expert legal advice. Thanks.
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05 Jun, 2023 by Roycelynne merx
I reached out looking for attorneys for an unfortunate matter that I've been dealt. Although he couldn't take my case, he was very very sincere and kind and honest which is extremely appreciated in such a dark moment and world.
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04 May, 2024 by Alice madd
06 Feb, 2024 by Anthony williams
Salem tek bali 👌 excellent representation great lawyer. We beat a case dui and a fleeing the scene . I love the outcome . He is very good at what he does highly recommend!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Valeriaestefana romero
Thanks a whole bunch 😊 I give him 5 stars He's an amazing Lawyer much is appreciated His work was well said Thank You again
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04 May, 2024 by Alice madd
06 Feb, 2024 by Anthony williams
Salem tek bali 👌 excellent representation great lawyer. We beat a case dui and a fleeing the scene . I love the outcome . He is very good at what he does highly recommend!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Valeriaestefana romero
Thanks a whole bunch 😊 I give him 5 stars He's an amazing Lawyer much is appreciated His work was well said Thank You again
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21 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
We were pleased to have Zac as our lawyer. He is a good person and clearly works hard to understand the case.
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14 May, 2023 by Anonymous
I think it says it all in my title. I was given this law firms name by a legal service I have through my employer. Left voicemail and sent email regarding the issue I am having and need legal guidance on. I never heard anything from anyone from the office, even if it would be just to tell me they couldn't help. Waited over 2 weeks for a response and nothing.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Atty Zachary Spanier has been very patient with our case. He made us feel safe and secure by staying calm and being there whenever we needed him. It has been a pleasant, calming, and reassuring experience with Atty Zac. If we were to choose another law firm, we have no doubt choosing Harlow Spanier & Heckele Law firm.
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03 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I feel like Mrs. Taylor was a complete waste of my time in my case. Not only have i not received my requests. But i being the female was ordered to pay my ex husband child support. I hired her to defend me and to help me gain full custody of my Children while going through a divorce process.
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20 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Pat is an amazing lawyer! She is experienced, works hard, and you can tell she really cares. I am so grateful for all the times she has helped my family.I highly recommend her!
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05 Oct, 2009 by Wallace
She is a good lawyer who doesn't waste your money on fancy offices. She plans well and thinks through her strategy (which is your strategy). While all lawyers are expensive, I feel like I received exceptional value for the cost of her services. I have no problem answering questions about the excellent service I received from this Lawyer.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Tim
I didn't know this was such a powerhouse of a law firm until after I retained them to handle my divorce. The thing I liked best about dealing with them was they always treated me like a person, not just an account or client. The entire staff is that way. I especially enjoyed meeting with Mr. Goldstein because he was very understanding and compassionate. Regardless of how bleak I thought my situation was, I felt reassured and confident after meeting with him.
During the process of my divorce I also learned that G&S worked in many other legal disciplines including wills, trusts and estate matters, Immigration, and criminal law. The attorneys assigned to my case handled all of it competently and professionally. In addition to handling family law, one of them had been a prosecutor, another was well versed in immigration. About the only thing they don't handle is real estate.
I highly recommend this firm. Regardless of the type of legal matter, if it's handled by Goldstein & Scopellite I don't think you can retain anyone better.
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05 Sep, 2017 by Jennifer
Mr. Goldstein helped guide me through a difficult time. Custody battle of my 2 kids. He was very knowledgeable and helped me legally as well as gave some great personal advice. He definitely seems to really care about his clients.
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13 Feb, 2017 by David
I hired "Goldstein and Scopellite" about two years ago to take over as counsel in a complex litigation matter that was not going favorably. The case involved four attorneys and had many parties. When they took over the case, they were able to quickly review the lengthy file, develop a strategy to fix initial issues that were critical, and then develop a long-term strategy to win the case, which never would have happened if I had not hired them.
Mr. Goldstein and Ms. Scopellite, the partners of the firm, are professional lawyers who actually care about your case, just like they say they do on their website. They were attentive, personable, and helped me to understand the process much better than I did before hiring them.
I would highly recommend using this law firm and their services if you have an on-going case that is not going well. They can help turn things completely around. I would also recommend hiring them for any new legal matter; I wish I had hired them in the first place.
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16 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I have met alot of attorney's around Tucson but when I came across Reyna Lawfirm I knew that is where my problems were going to be solved. He is carring and pays very close attention to every detail. He even takes time of his weekends to meet with clients or even go see inmate to prison. If you want someone to really take care of your legal issues Ron Reyna is the RIGHT guy to go to.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Jesus
My name is Jesus Santiago Arbizo SR. I contacted Reyna Lawfirm in Tucson Arizona for Mr. Reyna to assist him on a medical malpractice lawsuit against the Yuma Regional Hospital days later I came to find out my son was in Mexico in prison I went to the Mexican police and I was denied that my son was in custody supposedly he is in prison but can I believe them I still have no contact with my son but I do have some recordings on my phone where a person is leaving a message that he is in prison but they control that I then contacted Reyna Lawfirm to assist me on this he answer me that he is not an international law firm yet I found out he has a law firm in San Luis Rio Colorado Sonora Reyna y Asociados Seguros Insurance I knocked no one opened I walked arrowed and you could heir people being tortured can anyone help me with this monster?
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19 May, 2016 by Hunter
The main reason I hired Mr. Reyna was due to his reputation in the court room. My close friend went up against him . She stated she would have won with an attorney like him. Her recommendation came from the loosing side. For this reason we hired him. Not only does he pay close attention to what you are requesting but teach you why things can or cannot be done allowing you the same comfort he has in the case. This is huge for people fighting for their family to know an attorney wants what is best for you and not your money goes a long way. My friend and I call him the Pit bull of law. He is aggressive and fights clean, abides by the rules, but is detailed and backs himself with evidence and sound reason. Defiantly recommend him to anyone.
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25 May, 2022 by Rebecca
In 2007 I was arrested and book into custody Stephanie was my lawyer I was looking at 15 to 20 years federal prison she advised me not to take the plea so I didn't while I was in custody I was not able to be released due to at flight risk cuz of my FTA's I had in my past so they wouldn't let me out on pretrial services or signature bond or anything. Stephanie got me released. While waiting for sentencing Stephanie helped me with all courts justice courts and city courts and federal court shelled me get my driver license back as well and slot of my tickets reduced Stephanie also had stood up for me in court on sentencing day and advise me not to take the 2nd plea either the 3rd plea was 3-5 prison time as well as 36 months probation. Judge turned around knock the plea out and gave me 36 months probation and no prison time at all. I love this lawyer she is awesome she was the only one excepted my calls when I was detained in FCC. Stephanie is awesome not all lawyers are perfect and understand they do have a lot of cases to deal with but Stephanie did gud by my side
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10 Apr, 2020 by Daniel
Stephanie handle a case for me 15 years ago. She came to visit me at the jail and advised me to accept a plea. I was looking at 57 years and I was an angry man. Had been victimized by the system and told her I wanted to go to trial. I eventually took a deal.
She was always in contact and I walked away with 3.5 years. I recently spoke with her again and she was very pleasant and helpful. I would recommend her to others.
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12 Mar, 2014 by Dan
Stephanie Meade was appointed to my criminal case by the Office of Court Appointed counsel. There are many reasons I would NOT recommend this attorney. When I originally spoke to her regarding the likely outcomes of my case, she had said going to trial would not be a good idea unless I had something that would "impeach" the testimony of the other individual involved in my case. The issue is I later found out that even though Stephanie Meade claims to have "done a lot of work on my case" that she didn't even find out that the individual she was referring to was arrested nine days later in connection to a burglary relating to methamphetamine use. This information took me fifteen minutes to find from a library computer- so how much work could she have really done? The Arizona Supreme Court rules state an attorney is supposed to diligently defend their clients. She clearly did not. When I explained why a specific Tucson Police officer violated my Miranda rights, she told me that throws out my confession yet did not go to the judge to have the confession thrown out. This does not seem like a diligent defense to me. Also, I sent a fax asking a specific question in regards to a specific law since it may have given me a defense to my charges, and never even got one phone call to answer my question regarding the question in my fax. It was not until I was pleading to the charge a month later that she even addressed my question. I asked her why none of my calls we're returned and her response was "your not my only client". As far as I know she never interviewed any of the police officers or dug in to the reasons why my case and specific points were not properly documented by the police who investigated the circumstances that day.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Michael
I hired Mr. Jeffrey Blackman regarding a civil matter in July of 2019. Mr. Blackman immediately went to work, and wasted absolutely no time in producing results. Mr. Blackman paid great attention to fine detail, and kept me informed through constant communication. As a combat veteran, this was much appreciated. As I'm sure with anyone's legal situation, the proceedings caused me anxiety. However, due to Mr. Blackman's high effort, consistent communication, and production of results, my anxiety was minimal. Mr. Blackman has a very strong presence, which I believe derives from the experience and confidence he has. Court proceedings can be quite intimidating. Mr. Blackman's presence gives you an assurance you will not be allowed to be bullied or forced into any circumstance you do not wish to find yourself. If any unfortunate event in the future makes it necessary for me to hire an attorney, I would most certainly utilize Mr. Blackman's services.
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11 Jun, 2017 by George arden
Jeffrey Blackman's Aggressive, and Highly Ethical, Defense in my case is something I am thankful for. I would recommend him to anyone in Tucson seeking a Highly Experienced Attorney. He is a Terrific Man.
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02 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I left a poor review of a phone call with this lawyer. He called me back regarding it and I did not listen to the whole message due to low tolerance for confrontation or stress. I am writing this second one to balance out the first. It was only a phone call. The review I left was a little facitious, which isn't like me. I know how it is to have your reputation unfairly attacked, so I relent. The point of that review was to inform the attorney Mr. Blackman that my impression of the call was that he really didn't want to hear about the case, and I really did want some thoughts on it. Excuse my imaginative description, but it is the truth that is what I imagined! I'm sure no one wants people to think that way of them. Moral of the story: if the phone is your first contact, and people are in a scary situation, you may want to be a little easier and friendlier. Don't cut people off so much when they are speaking, etc. I have nothing bad to say about Mr. Blackman as an attorney, however.
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20 May, 2024 by George demarino
If you're a guy, they're really no help. I don't know about how they're with women.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Rhonda sundell
09 Apr, 2024 by Akc in miracle valley
Found out that anything reported anonymously is not investigated! That Puts people in this state in danger when reporting. This state and especially Cochise County is corrupt!!
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07 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark resnick, You are a disgusting human being who ruins the lives of innocent people just to make a quick buck. You will lie for your client and protect the guilty. During cross examination you make the victims feel like they did something wrong and try to persuade the judge that the victim should be charged instead of your client who is in fact the criminal and guilty party. I am not sure how your wife or children can look at you knowing what a despicable person you are. Shame on you!
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11 Sep, 2020 by Donald
Hired him for a DUI after I was referred by a friend, It was money well spent. I hope to never be in a bind again, but If I am he will be the first to call.
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14 Dec, 2019 by Michelle and ryan
Mark Resnick is the most competent, most caring, most efficient lawyer we have ever had, and we have had a lot of them. He's worth every dime. If ur in big trouble and need a good lawyer to defend you, I would suggest Mr. Resnick all day!! He is legit the best!! His swag alone will get u less time!!
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11 Jun, 2024 by Abdul
It was clear throughout the process that Chris is well-versed and well respected in the legal community. My case was pretty serious. Yet, he was able to convey the circumstances in a way that garnered empathy and the best outcome possible. I highly recommend his services.
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05 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I wouldn't hire this lawyer. He doesn't put his all in. He was my nephew lawyer didn't fight for my nephew in his criminal or civil case. All he was worried about is getting paid. He got paid over what his flat fee. Got my nephew 14 years in prison. He is a sell out.
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28 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Stop looking for a lawyer and hire Chris and Andrew best in Arizona they go out their way to get you the lowest to the lowest.
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17 Dec, 2014 by Robert v.
The City was trying to put my corporation (business) out of operation due to a few minor complaints arranged by a former employee and a few members she built a relation with. Mr. Wolkin not only won
the case outright, he was also able to require the City of Tucson pay all legal fees we incurred (funds received). He handled other legal matters over the previous years with the same efficiency, aggressiveness and success. He was truly outstanding. Our business relationship continued for years.
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29 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
This lawyer was representing us in an unlawful foreclosure case. Because he failed to file TRO or the like before the unlawful auction (he said he didn't realize he needed to do so), my home was sold, creating even bigger problems and the new buyers trying to evict us and take possession. He then dropped the case, leaving us to fend for ourselves in a gigantic and overwhelming legal situation that he created.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
He takes money, then doesn't do the work he was hired to do, doesn't contact you, lies about it, and tries to get away with it.
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11 Mar, 2020 by Mike c
I hired Russell and I recommend him. He understood my situation quickly and gave me concise advice.
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03 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Experts stay away. This person is not familiar with Daubert Standards for experts and may expect you to testify even if it is against your best judgement.
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19 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Jacob is representing me on my third case - I would recommend Jacob Amaru to anyone, even if the case is outside the realm of criminal defense. Jacob is extremely intelligent, and subsequently pays close attention to every word and emotion, inside and outside of the court room. Jacob has always returned calls and/or email immediately!
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05 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Nope. Just Nope. Peter A. Gutierrez (Thrush Law Group) was appointed as my legal counsel by the judge. After reading the "glowing" reviews of his outstanding character and performance I was confident my case would be handled properly and in a timely manner. Unfortunately, that initial confidence evaporated and turned into panic when he failed to perform even the most basic task legal counsel is duty bound to perform- communicate with the client (me).
In the nearly two (2) months he was my "assigned" counsel I never got to speak with him even once. He kept me fire-walled behind his paralegal assistant and the communications went no further. I did provide the paralegal assistant with all the evidence necessary to accurately interpret and represent my case like security camera video/pictures, body camera video, and even video from my sunglasses camera. The finding of fact being not only "not guilty" but that the PCSD Deputy shouldn't have even issued the citation in the first place. Clearly, something that Peter A. Gutierrez could and should have handled without even going to trial.
But I never even got to hear from him at all. Not about the evidence I submitted. Nothing about what his game-plan or strategy was or might be. No personal meeting or even an over-the-phone discussion. His behavior was no different than one would expect to see from a public defender who wouldn't communicate with the client until the very day of the hearing. Then in that hearing he would have explained away why he was unwilling and/or incapable of providing the representation I or anyone else would deserve.
I didn't give Peter A. Gutierrez or the Thrush Law Group the chance to sell me out. I fired him 2 weeks before the hearing date and for failing to perform that basic duty of communication with the client (me). I mean, how can any lawyer properly represent someone without examining the evidence and formulating a strategy?
I did find competent legal counsel and the case was handled properly with the charge being dismissed due to the actions of that competent legal counsel. Unlike Peter A. Gutierrez, the new lawyer (not Thrush Group..) did communicate with me. In person. Over-the-phone. Emails too. And the case was properly dismissed.
If the court has appointed Peter A. Gutierrez as your legal counsel be afraid. Be very afraid that even though you are innocent of any wrongdoing this lawyer will play along to get along with the prosecutor/judge and you'll end up with a wrongful criminal conviction on your record. (_Oo)
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13 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Pete after I received a DUI in Arizona. This had HUGE ramifications on my livelihood. Pete went the extra mile and fought like a sabre toothed tiger in court. He is an excellent litigator. I was acquitted of all charges. He later took on the AZ DMV for me, again, all charges dropped. If you get in trouble in AZ, this is the guy you want. He goes the extra mile and does not take "NO," for an answer when it comes to your defense.
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02 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Peter caused more stress than my actual divorce. He could never give me an answer when I asked for updates on my case but would charge me for the phone call. I would have to leave messages with the front desk staff requesting updates on my case because he was never available. Peter would ask me questions about my case that had already been discussed and documented in my file. The only time he had to appear at a hearing for my case, he gave excuses to the judge why documents related to monies I was awarded had not been filed, which I was also not aware of, and the judge yelled at him. I never felt confident or represented with Peter as my lawyer.
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24 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This guy should be in jail, taking hard earned $ from people. How he is a lawyer is beyond me. Ignorant person. Feel sorry for people that work for him and have to deal with the corruption.
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10 Aug, 2017 by Kelly
My son got a DUI. We talked to Mr. Wilson, he gave us a discount due to son was military. Never telling us someone else would be going to court with us. On court day was only day to talk to that attorney. Otherwise , every time in office talked to Mr. Wilson. My friend looked up Arizona rules, statutes, etc. Everyone my friend came up with Mr. Wilson said NO to all my friend pointed Mr. Wilson said he was wrong. Not sure how since got off line. He represents you, DOES NOT DEFEND YOU!! My son has since past so case was closed. No help of Mr. Wilson at all.
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27 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Got pulled over and was charged with a DUI even though I was not really drinking. Mr Wilson found that there was not enough evidence for the charges and got them dropped for me. I was so happy. The last thing I wanted on my record was that.. Thank you Mr Wilson.
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12 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
When he was a corporate attorney, he tried to seduce my wife. He is lazy having clerks and paralegals do all of his work.
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20 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Ashley did absolutely NOTHING on our case.. Nothing. If you get in trouble during the NCAA Tournament, you are SOL! She does no "Law" work at all.
Then, she's some kind of referre for the minor leagues of Basketball. That keeps her unavailable from Thursday thru Monday. She is part-time like a paper route when it comes to law.
Terrible bed side minor. Actually, we never heard from her after she came into our home and promised us many things that she never delivered on.
If you get her as your Public Defender, guaranteed your going to DOC.
She doesn't even deserve one star.
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29 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
He had very little time for me and my case. He was always gone from the office out of town and he was never prepared for court. Divorce and child custody are not his cup of tea. Hire a fighter, not someone who's in it for the money only.
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10 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney is awful he lacks any people skills what so ever, does not meet with his client or even keep them in the loop on their case, doesn't do what he says he's going to, doesn't file motions he says he will, he shows up over an hour late for court, he is Never prepared and if u call him he tells u not to call him and he openly admits he doesn't have time for your case, why did u take my case then? Pretty much if u want an attorney that actually gives a crap about u and ur case DO NOT choose him!
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04 Sep, 2023 by Christian
I retained Salvatore for a child custody case and this guy did absolutely nothing! I stand corrected, he did take my money! He charged me for hours of work that he did not do! Literally this guy did not do one thing for me and charged me $1,600! I confronted him on this and he basically hid from me! This guy has no integrity and is all about the money! He will not do the work but he will take your money! This guy gives a bad name to attorneys and he is a real scumbag!
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
