Lawyers map
>120
experienced lawyers
Filter by
24 Jan, 2025 by Bailey hillis
keaton is a great attorney and person. we hired him back in september for my moms criminal case and he's done nothing but been helpful and supportive. he definitely eases our minds during this rough time and i definitely recommend him.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Brooke chapman
I called Keaton after getting 3 charges. He was excellent in making me feel more at ease with everything. He was super understanding and kind throughout the whole process. He explained every question I asked him and He also got 2 of my bigger charges dropped! It was such a weight lifted off my shoulders. I’m so glad I chose Keaton as a lawyer! His dedication was evident from the start. He navigated my case with precision and provided clear, insightful guidance throughout the entire process. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate legal professional. I’m very Happy with the outcome of having Keaton as my lawyer!
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Tina
My name is Tina Anderson I’m originally from New Orleans I was in a very serious situation where I was facing up to ten years in prison. Mr. Keaton was very transparent with me concerning my case. He answered all calls and questions my husband and I had before he took on the case and during the entirety of the case. Mr. Taylor was very knowledgeable he showed up on time for every court appearance was extremely professional. My case was ultimately dismissed which is very rare especially because CPS filed the charges against me. I really appreciate Mr.Taylor! I’m so glad to be back in New Orleans! Thank you so much for representing me!
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Sam mouchantaf
Great lawyer very fair answer my calls every time I call I recommend him to anyone needs help
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Pete
Super professional.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by This is englett
I do not recommend him if ur from out of town , my opinion
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Oscar tejeda
My experience was very good!. I had made a consultation with Mr. Richard Moore and I met him with concerns and doubts and at the time I felt helpless and alone in this battle. I was made confident once I saw Mr. Richard Moore's passion in my case. I felt right away this is a man that will fight the battles that I don't have the tools for. I felt very confident about my choice and at the end it turned out to be a great choice. Thank you Stange Law firm. And thank you Mr. Richard Moore.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Ryan slaton
Richard Moore has done a fantastic job representing me in my divorce. He and everyone else at the firm have been great to work with and taken so much stress out of the process for me. I highly recommend the firm for anyone considering divorce.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Robbi florence
Richard Moore & his paralegal, Amit have been fantastic. We are still in the midst of the divorce process, but they are informative, helpful, kind, and aggressive where they need to be. I could not recommend Richard enough.
Read more
23 Nov, 2024 by Kiko and camello
07 Sep, 2024 by Haley arnett
Bryce was easy to work with and make the whole process stress free and quick. Highly recommended!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Lauren alberty
Bryce was such a huge help in getting me through the divorce process!
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Tina jameson
We got the help we needed from Mr. Brydie and some peace of mind as well. I would absolutely recommend him if you are in need of his services. Thank you again Sir
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Susan manning
30 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa zimmer
I had the pleasure of having a wonderful consultation with Mr. Brydie that was
extremely informative. Mr. Brydie gave me a clear path to take when dealing with my situation. I would highly recommend him and this law firm. Everyone was very helpful and courteous.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Joy lang
Beverly Atteberry literally has changed the very course of my life. She got my criminal record completely expunged when other attorneys said it couldn't be done. I made some major mistakes n my life when I was younger I have completely changed my life but my record was keeping me from being able to fully live my life changed because of the felony tag I had on it. A whole new world of better possibilities and opportunities is now available for me so I can now, having changed my life, be able to truly follow my dreams and live them out. Thank you more than a Thank you could ever be enough. To Thank you with!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Amber sweeten
The lawyer I guess that was assigned to my case does not communicate..I have no clue what's going on what the next steps are how long until I get to settle ..I can get double the amount of leg work done by myself quicker then waiting on even getting a responce..i have seen no effort in helping me with my accident..but i had to sign a contract like a dummy..
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Kea harris
14 Nov, 2024 by Deivy castellano
Excelente servicio lo recomiendo satisfecho con su trabajo
Read more
12 Nov, 2024 by T a
Going with Mr. Parsons as my attorney was hands down the best decision I made! From our first conversation to me walking out the courthouse today he was upfront, honest, and optimistic. He laid out what he thought the outcome would be if I listened, let him do his job, and trusted him. Best dressed, AMAZING with court staff, and fights for an even better outcome after he already exceeded expectations. 10/10. LETS GO CHIEFSSSSS
Read more
26 Oct, 2024 by Christopher carter
Matt Day and his team helped me out so much. I thought i was never gonna have time with my son due to criminal record, but they made it happen. I got 50/50 and i can never be more thankful. Just always remember to be fully honest with you attorney so they can help you to the full extent. I 100% recommend this team. Again thank yall.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Dr kinu tanaka
12 Dec, 2024 by Cristian camilo
They did a great job in fighting for me in my proceedings.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Nury tatiana
This law firm was really helpful for me and my family.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Dr kinu tanaka
12 Dec, 2024 by Cristian camilo
They did a great job in fighting for me in my proceedings.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Nury tatiana
This law firm was really helpful for me and my family.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jason davis
I highly and I do mean highly do not recommend him. If you have a felony once again again I repeat I highly recommend you do not hire. If you have a felony. This guy here is the joke of the courthouse. Honestly, he will not fight for you, he will not remember your name, let alone he will be late to court most of the judges dislike this guy. I had him on my case and had to fire while was at court, the judge also had to court order him to give me my discovery. Some attorney he is so once again if you are fighting a felony, I highly recommend you do not hire this guy.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Chelsie hall
Stephen Cale was awesome to work with. He was quick to get us in for our meeting, we gathered our evidence, went to court, and had it dismissed in less than a month and a half for the false charges on my husband! He was always quick to respond and answer our questions! I highly recommend him.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Morgan kelley
Mr. Cale worked hard to get me the best deal he could. He reassured me the whole time that everything was going to be ok. By the end of it my record was expunged and I'm so glad I chose Mr. Cale to represent me.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Deivy castellano
Excelente servicio lo recomiendo satisfecho con su trabajo
Read more
12 Nov, 2024 by T a
Going with Mr. Parsons as my attorney was hands down the best decision I made! From our first conversation to me walking out the courthouse today he was upfront, honest, and optimistic. He laid out what he thought the outcome would be if I listened, let him do his job, and trusted him. Best dressed, AMAZING with court staff, and fights for an even better outcome after he already exceeded expectations. 10/10. LETS GO CHIEFSSSSS
Read more
26 Oct, 2024 by Christopher carter
Matt Day and his team helped me out so much. I thought i was never gonna have time with my son due to criminal record, but they made it happen. I got 50/50 and i can never be more thankful. Just always remember to be fully honest with you attorney so they can help you to the full extent. I 100% recommend this team. Again thank yall.
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Acjagecoaoidesllc
Do yourself a favor and DO NOT use these lawyers!!! They don't respond to you when you need a status update on your case... they are only out to get your money and don't care about you the customer..... I wish I could leave no stars!!! They have changed their name and address so that should raise a red flag!!! They waited until after 2 years to even start on my case and now I can't do anything because I was told by another attorney that the Statues of Limitations has passed and no one can work my case now!!!!! So do yourself a favor and GET A DIFFERENT ATTORNEY AND DON"T EVEN THINK ABOUT THESE SO CALLED LAWYERS.. THEY NEED TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL AND LEARN CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS because they just don't have it!!!!!
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Jessica dunn
21 Sep, 2023 by Jenni cabrera
MY HUSBAND AND I ARE STILL GETTING DOCTOR TREATMENT DUE TO A NOT AT FAULT ACCIDENT, WE HIRED TREVOR LAW FIRM TO HELP US. SO FAR THEY HAVE BEEN THERE FOR US EVERY STEP OF THE WAY!
WILL HIGHLY SUGGEST HIRING THEM,IF EVER IN NEED OF AN ATTORNEY IN OKLAHOMA!
TWO 👍👍!!!
Read more
16 Nov, 2016 by Brandi
I hired Mr. Nunely in 2012 to help with legal issues and filing Bankruptcy, however that is not the way to go for some people that was my option. Mr. Nunely was very professional and answered every question I had. The Best attorney by far that I have ever worked with.I would refer him to everybody needing legal representation. I was never belittled nor did I ever feel uncomfortable about my situation. Thank-You
Read more
20 Mar, 2014 by Steve
I hired Dan as attorney to attain Chapter 7 bankruptcy . He had me meet him at ups store to do initial signing. I gave him 700 down and tried to give my employer check stubs for previous six months but he would no take. He emailed me forms to fill out which were extensive and time consuming. We then met at ups store once more and I gave him paper work. As I was getting him balance of fee from bank he glanced at paperwork and said I would make means tests . He refunded me 40 of 700
Read more
19 Jul, 2013 by Sarah
Dan Nunley handled my bankruptcy. He made the process quick and painless. He was professional and is very knowledgeable in his field. He handled it with discretion and didn't make me feel uncomfortable or ashamed due to my financial situation. If you are looking for a bankruptcy attorney I highly recommend Mr. Nunley.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Kevin wilson
Great service to have a protective order dismissed. Rob Henson was very responsive and always returned my calls or emails. I highly recommend his services.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Brad potter
I am currently benefitting from Karla Rogers' professional expertise. She is a super attorney. She loves what she does. Nobody loves what they do, unless they are good, if not, the best. I was referred by another legal professional. That carries weight in itself. Listen people, if you want a bulldog that will bring you the kill with a smile on her face, Karla Rogers is for you. She is a badass Texas girl, who chose a better place to practice. I highly recommend her.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by B a
I met Mr. Henson a few days after I was charged and he made me feel confident from day one I knew I was innocent and so did he and he proved it!!! He is amazing at what he does it isn't just a job it's a passion to him to help real people in need!!! I will always suggest him to anyone in need!!!
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Deivy castellano
Excelente servicio lo recomiendo satisfecho con su trabajo
Read more
12 Nov, 2024 by T a
Going with Mr. Parsons as my attorney was hands down the best decision I made! From our first conversation to me walking out the courthouse today he was upfront, honest, and optimistic. He laid out what he thought the outcome would be if I listened, let him do his job, and trusted him. Best dressed, AMAZING with court staff, and fights for an even better outcome after he already exceeded expectations. 10/10. LETS GO CHIEFSSSSS
Read more
26 Oct, 2024 by Christopher carter
Matt Day and his team helped me out so much. I thought i was never gonna have time with my son due to criminal record, but they made it happen. I got 50/50 and i can never be more thankful. Just always remember to be fully honest with you attorney so they can help you to the full extent. I 100% recommend this team. Again thank yall.
Read more
08 Jan, 2025 by Bobby burgos
Got my bankruptcy filed in under a month ago. Everything went just as he said. You have to provide a ton of financial documents like paystubs and bank statements, but it's worth it to not owe the money anymore.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Whitney r
I have never been talked down to the way she talked down to me. This person is very disrespectful.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Latoyadenae
Thanks for helping me through a tough time, my bankruptcy it's hard to do and I felt so sick,it feels good to have it behind me. I appreciate you helping me get to the other side. Thank you!!!
Read more
08 Jan, 2025 by Bobby burgos
Got my bankruptcy filed in under a month ago. Everything went just as he said. You have to provide a ton of financial documents like paystubs and bank statements, but it's worth it to not owe the money anymore.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Whitney r
I have never been talked down to the way she talked down to me. This person is very disrespectful.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Latoyadenae
Thanks for helping me through a tough time, my bankruptcy it's hard to do and I felt so sick,it feels good to have it behind me. I appreciate you helping me get to the other side. Thank you!!!
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Tammy nichols
Awesome law office! Helped us out a lot! Thanks!!! Michaela and Doug did a great job on our case!!! Charles is a great lawyer too!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Donna williams
Doug Thomas is an excellent attorney. Very professional & caring about his clients.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Christian mcmahan
With how slow and manipulative the judiciary system is in Oklahoma, if you need a law office to handle any situation that arises, Kania Law Office is the place to go.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Joy lang
Beverly Atteberry literally has changed the very course of my life. She got my criminal record completely expunged when other attorneys said it couldn't be done. I made some major mistakes n my life when I was younger I have completely changed my life but my record was keeping me from being able to fully live my life changed because of the felony tag I had on it. A whole new world of better possibilities and opportunities is now available for me so I can now, having changed my life, be able to truly follow my dreams and live them out. Thank you more than a Thank you could ever be enough. To Thank you with!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Amber sweeten
The lawyer I guess that was assigned to my case does not communicate..I have no clue what's going on what the next steps are how long until I get to settle ..I can get double the amount of leg work done by myself quicker then waiting on even getting a responce..i have seen no effort in helping me with my accident..but i had to sign a contract like a dummy..
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Kea harris
29 Oct, 2024 by M w
Grateful to have had David referred to me. Had no clue as to what needed to be done for my mother's probate. Thankfully they made the process a breeze. Much appreciated at a time with so much turmoil. Can't imagine a better experience.
Read more
28 Oct, 2024 by Chris veal
Jason is truly the best at what he does!!
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by C nance
For over 10 years, I battled with visitation denials, OK CPS investigations with the custodial parent, my X taking the children to 3 different states and 4 previous lawyers. Scott is the first lawyer that I found to be a true advocate for Father’s Rights and the rights of a Non-Custodial Parent. Scott is a brilliant litigator and it was truly impressive to see him in court. I actually felt bad for opposing counsel since, Scott was extremely professional, he held my X accountable for the first time and we were well prepared for the fight. Military law group was timely in their actions and filings. You do get what you pay for with Military Law, which is a lawyer that respects you as a person experiencing hardship with your custody/visiation, and Scott fights for you with the tenacity of a warrior and veteran.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Efrain martin
16 Oct, 2024 by Randy way
Jeff Cooper is the best. He did everything he could, Auth the best results. Tere Carson was equally impressive Auth the patients of a saint. Thank you so much for everything.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Shelly carbajal
Jeff Cooper and Tere Carson are absolutely amazing! This was my second time working with them and both times they have been exemplary! Tere was very efficient and always kept the lines of communication open. I never had to wonder about what was going on with my case. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case, and I owe it all to Jeff and Tere. I highly recommend them both!
Dr. Shelly Carbajal
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Oscar tejeda
My experience was very good!. I had made a consultation with Mr. Richard Moore and I met him with concerns and doubts and at the time I felt helpless and alone in this battle. I was made confident once I saw Mr. Richard Moore's passion in my case. I felt right away this is a man that will fight the battles that I don't have the tools for. I felt very confident about my choice and at the end it turned out to be a great choice. Thank you Stange Law firm. And thank you Mr. Richard Moore.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Ryan slaton
Richard Moore has done a fantastic job representing me in my divorce. He and everyone else at the firm have been great to work with and taken so much stress out of the process for me. I highly recommend the firm for anyone considering divorce.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Robbi florence
Richard Moore & his paralegal, Amit have been fantastic. We are still in the midst of the divorce process, but they are informative, helpful, kind, and aggressive where they need to be. I could not recommend Richard enough.
Read more
16 Jul, 2019 by Shemeeka
I hired him as an attorney for a DUI ( Marijuana) charge I received.. He seemed very knowledgeable and made me feel extremely comfortable. My license was still revoked , I was sentenced to 18 months probation and had to pay a ton of fees thousands of dollars !! I feel he could have fought the case and actually helped me , it was my first time getting in trouble!! My car smelt of burnt marijuana.. I wasn't drinking , I was required to complete a drug & alcohol assessment, a 10 hour DUI class, a Victims Impact Class & also I must have the breathalyzer in my car for 18months ! When I went to court the judge asked him about his mother & father as he reminisced about working with them. Stephen, you couldn't negotiate & get me a better outcome??!! I smile to keep from crying this has been EXTREMELY STRESSFUL for me. I wish someone could open my case back up & reevaluate the severity of my sentence.
Read more
10 Jul, 2019 by Carolc
I cannot recommend Stephen Edge highly enough. I came to his office extremely nervous and, frankly, just plain scared. I'd never been in trouble and had received a DUI. From the moment I met him, he showed compassion, professionalism and genuine concern without judgement. He took the time to explain each step of the process and all my options. He got my misdemeanor charge reduced with just fines and probation - I made a huge, stupid mistake months later and received a 2nd DUI. Now I was terrified and facing a felony charge. Stephen was able to get me off with a deferred sentence and just fines and my case will be EXPUNGED in 3 years, so NO criminal record. He saved my license, no breathing device on my car and most importantly to me, not one day in jail. He literally saved my job, home and my freedom. DON'T make the mistakes I made, but if you do - call Stephen Edge. He is a credit to his profession. I cannot thank him and his competent staff enough. CarolC
Read more
21 Jun, 2019 by Ella
I contacted Stephen Edge 10 days before my court date. Very last minute. He spent time with me discussing my case and decided to take it on. On the morning of my court date he walked me through all possible outcomes clearly. We didn’t even go in front of the Judge. My case was expunged without incident and I couldn’t be more thrilled. He is fantastic. 5 stars and fully recommended!
Read more
15 Jun, 2024 by Mike
Hired Randy Rankin but an attorney named Eric Johnson was put on my case instead. Eric worked for the d.a. in the county where my charges were not long before taking my case. It was obvious he still pulled for the prosecutors more than for those he's supposed to defend. He never would do anything I asked of him with the courts. It was always what he chose and wanted as if your not the client. Then it came down to having to accept something because I had no defense with this so called attorney not doing his job and not working for the client. He sat in a side room the day of court and wouldn't talk to me his client instead leaving my mom to try to explain paperwork she knew nothing about while he lounged in an office acrosd the hall. He only came in the room to say I was stupid while I was upset because he wouldn't come do his job and left my mom to answer questions she didn't have answers for. I may be diagnosed with mental disability but I'm far from stupid Mr. Eric Johnson. If you hire Randy Rankin to do a job beware if Eric Johnson is put in Randy's place. At that point I recommend getting your money back and going elsewhere. I had the most ineffective assistance at council oklahoma in which paperwork is being filed against this pathetic excuse for an attorney. My case was a misdemeanor case yet I didn't receive the skill of even a public defender which I paid for an attorney but received less than a public defender. For an attorney to sit in a side room and not do his job this is disgraceful and pathetic and to call a person with mental disabilities stupid Mr. Eric Johnson your a sad excuse for an attorney!!!
Read more
26 Sep, 2023 by Reece mitchell watkins
Randy Rankin is a wonderful lawyer he does a phenomenal job, he’s very good at what he does! He has helped me out tremendously earning the right to see my son! And he has just done that! I would highly recommend Randy to anyone battling legal battles.
Read more
23 Sep, 2023 by Craig olinger
If you are looking for an attorney that will be honest with you, even though it may not be what you want to hear and not set you up for false hope, then this guy is your man. My case took roughly 5 years to settle due to some things out of our control, but from the word go he had my best interest in mind, never led me astray and kept me informed the whole time. I know attorneys sometimes get a bad rap because clients don't get what they think they deserve, but in reality that's not the fault of the attorney but more of just the law in general. Randy knows the law inside and out. If I had it to do all over again this is the attorney I would want by my side, no question about it.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Larry crider
I've never worked with a more dedicated and loyal business group as this Law Office. No matter what my questions are directed towards, someone is assigned to see me to the end to help in any matter and give professional advice.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Jill baffert
Clark and his team are outstanding. Their knowledge and expertise in the law is without equal. Clark is professional, strategic and always prepared. He is an exceptional communicator who takes great care in explaining complicated legal concepts in simple terms, along with, the pros and cons of each strategic decision. He is willing to work with all parties involved to reach a favorable outcome. Clark's natural compassion and genuine concern for his clients is invaluable and was a great source of support to me while navigating one of the most challenging times of my life.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Jim foreman
Guy Fortney is the best. He cares. He listens. He knows his stuff. I am blessed to have him in my corner. Can’t thank him and Brewster & De Angelis enough.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Andrew
I hired this lawyer for a divorce case a year or so back. He is incredibly polite, calm, knowledged, and fought for me harder than I even fought for myself in court. Would highly reccomend this lawyer.
Read more
18 Mar, 2024 by Anne
I contacted Jason in July 2023 to get my POA and trust documents written to have available for my son whenever I pass away. I paid in full (his rule - now I know why). He got the documents to me in August (I believe).
I contacted him on 9/1 for two blank forms from one of the documents so I could type up what I wanted on them. He offered to get that done for me. I emailed 5 times, text, and called the office and his cell. I finally received the complete 4 documents again on 12/27/23 (almost four months later!); two of which had the wrong names on them. I contacted him immediately and informed him; and had to email another 4 times.
Jason kept blaming ME for this taking so long (you could have called; you could have text). I DID these things; he never responded until I told him he was fired and I would be finding a competent attorney.
I received the "corrected" documents 3/11/24; two documents had an incorrect address; one document had my name misspelled; and there were other typos. Last week, he text me that he would issue me a partial refund.
This week, he is refusing me any refund.
Read more
08 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
If you intentions are to maintain or gain custody of your child or children DO NOT USE Jason Lile as your Attorney. He is just there to take your money. Mr. Lile wasn't very professional leading up to court, and was extremely outclassed in the court room by opposing counsel. I realize that there are a lot of us out that this may be your first time hiring a attorney. The truth is you don't know what you don't know until it happens and you wished you were represented by the type of attorney who advised you properly and was working in your best interest. Please don't make the same mistake I made in choosing Mr. Lile expecting him to be that type of attorney because he is not, you will lose your kids no matter if your a great mother or father with his representation.
Read more
01 Mar, 2023 by Alice
I had solid work done.
Kathleen stayed focused on the most important aspects of the situation and was easy to work with.
Read more
19 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
We hired Kathleen in March 2020, in July 2020 we had to hire a new attorney. 4 months and $10K later! Kathleen did nothing to help our case. She let the opposing attorney run over her and call all of the shots. She was very good at charging us but did nothing to help out case. Literally nothing. We are actually worse off than we were when we started. I do not recommend her at all.
Read more
12 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Had a very bad experience with this lawyer. He took my money and didn’t do anything and I mean he literally didn’t do anything. He only made one court appearance and after that he wouldn’t even show up. A lot of times I had to remind him what my case was even about smh. Just a horrible experience that resulted in me loosing of course.
Read more
28 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
So it goes like this.
Marijuana possession case. Mark speaks to me like I'm a child. Sets up a court date. The court "loses" my documents. I showed up to 5 separate appearances at which I was simply rescheduled. 4 of which nether he nor his representation appeared at all. Yes I was left alone! 3 times! In court! Then, turns out he literally couldn't do anything about my case anyway and neither could his paralegals, whom by the way didn't even know my name! Ridiculous. If you want to waste your money, how these people. "An attorney you can count on" to sit at home and do nothing while you have to represent yourself. I found out that he evidently is a truck driver now because he's a terrible lawyer. Go figure.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
