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08 Aug, 2024 by Chad mackenzie
I started working with Celia last year with an ugly situation with my ex. Celia is 100% straight to the point and extremely honest with how things can turn out. I talked to about 10 lawyers before I decided to go with Celia and have really been amazing. Celia and her team are great, excellent at communicating, and have been an enormous help. Even with a stressful situation like child custody, Celia has been incredible with her expertise in family law.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Hary t
Celia is truly wonderful. How often you heard a story of "a lawyer with a heart"? She is practical, straightforward, helpful, efficient, and well organized.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Frank parth
Celia is one of the most amazing attorneys I have ever come across! She was able to take on an extremely complicated case and worked effortlessly to get us the win we needed with very little time to prepare. I've worked with a number of attorneys in the past, three of whom I still have on retainer, and was impressed with her ability to know what needed to be done to get the win and let us know exactly what evidence she needed us to prepare. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an experienced attorney in need of justice!
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28 Feb, 2022 by Rigo
Chris is an awesome lawyer and great guy. He took over my DUI case and couldn’t have been happier with the results. His communication skills are great, always responds very quickly and gets the job done effectively. Hired him again for further complications with a bench warrant and he handled it ASAP and doesn’t over charge. Definitely would recommend Chris to anyone.
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05 Oct, 2021 by Pamela
If you find yourself in legal trouble, do not look anywhere else. This man, and attorney, is the one that you want on your side ! He cares, and will handle your legal needs to navigate through the process. I highly suggest you utilize his services. I truly believe he will provide the best outcome in your case. I wish you the best.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Ryan
Mr. Tucker handled my case better than I could have asked for and with such professionalism. He took my case literally at the beginning of the pandemic, and dealt with all the court schedule issues and postponements due to the corona virus better than I can imagine anyone would have. Most importantly Mr. Tucker made sure to give me all the info I needed to get this all handled in the best way for me, as well as least costly. I could not thank, nor recommend him enough.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Veronica quevedo
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13 Jul, 2024 by Arturo morales
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12 Jul, 2024 by Flor de maría avalos romero
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22 Jul, 2024 by Veronica quevedo
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13 Jul, 2024 by Arturo morales
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12 Jul, 2024 by Flor de maría avalos romero
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06 May, 2022 by Nick
After contacting this law firm several times, I decided to go in for a consultation. Klarich, kept asking about the $250 Consultation Fee, multiple times and it was really annoying. Finally the day comes to consult at his office in Tustin, CA. The first thing he ask, guess what, yep the consultation fee. $250, this guy must not get a lot of action, because of the constant request of the $250. Now in all fairness he may have looked up the case info in regards to the History of Retained Attorneys and like all dishonest attorneys do, the lie. So previous attorneys would promise certain things and if they do not deliver then they are not getting paid. Like the 1st Attorney of Record was given $28,000 but requested $80,000 on Amended Charges and then this attorney had purposely colluded with the District Attorney and then we had fired him, then the next time in front of a Judge, he files a motion to withdraw and the Judge said, I do not think so, it was solely up to us to keep the attorney but who wants a sellout, so we let the attorney withdraw and he refunded $5000 for us to obtain another attorney. My stock portfolio reflects an earning of $250 every 20 minutes of an 8 hour day. This guy Klarich gets all stoked of $250, that shows me where his mindset is. He is researching and possibly even calling previous attorney's and checking the record so he considers this being protective but the truth is, that is all this guy thinks about, money, if he would have spent more time focused on the issues at hand we may have moved forward with this firm, besides it was the partner's son who I was more interested in and they give us this guy who is a total know it all but truthfully does not know much about the appellant process, yeah maybe general stuff but even I know that, but everything he said in reference to our questions was nothing new that we didn't already know. Also, since attorney's may look at the History of Cases, it would be only fair to look up the attorney's record or how many successful appeals an attorney may have and after the consultation, I did just that and for the amount of confidence he had shown does not reflect much in his success in the appellant courts realm but then again, not even the best of attorney's have any type of a successful record, but that is the nature of the beast in the appellant world.
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22 May, 2015 by Warren
So Happy that I made the decision to contact Wallin & Klarich to help me in dealing with my past legal issues. Over the past decade I have worked hard to change and have been successful in doing so. But there has always been that cloud hanging over my head. You cant run from your past-but Mr. Klarich sat down with me and my wife personally and explained how the system worked. His office was welcoming, and his assistants and associates were always there by email and telephone when the paperwork trail seemed endless. Court rooms had always been a negative experience in my past, but thanks to Wallin & Klarich my last court room appearance had me standing tall. i was able to prove to the courts that I am indeed the changed man that my friends and co-workers know me to be. I walked out of the court room with a Certificate of Rehabilitation and that means the world to me. It will open doors that have been closed to me in the past -doors that have not only been closed legally but also in my own mind. Thank you so much!
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25 Nov, 2014 by Patrick
Stephen Klarich, and the people at Wallin and Klarich, listened from the first phone call we had, had a knowledgeable understanding and encouraged me with hope that what I sought could be attained. After making the decision and committing to the case, Mr. Klarich and his team were always very attentive and quick with a response. Following advice and guidance from my attorney proved to be a wonderful success that lead to my victorious case that will positively change my life. Thank you Mr. Klarich, Julie and Michael L.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Reese vonhemert
Was fighting a 103 in a 70 facing wreck less driving and losing my license. Got all my charges dropped and my record is clean now. 10/10 highly recommend this firm.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Kevin maldonado
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13 Jun, 2023 by Maricela perez
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25 Oct, 2013 by Nick
I am a law school graduate going through the CA Bar Moral Application process. Unfortunately, during that period, I was arrested and charged with DUI. Being convicted with a DUI, you get a minimum of 3 years probation and this meant I had to kiss my chances of becoming an attorney for a long time. Factually, the prosecutor had a very strong case against me. So Robert had to put in motion his special negotiation skills and his know how. Fortunately, almost a year after my arrest, Robert and his team were able to negotiate a plea of "wet reckless" which carried with it only 1 year probation, but terminable in 6 months as long as I have not committed another offense and have complied with the fees, etc. I recommend him and his team highly as they are very professional and knowledge in this field of practice.
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27 Jun, 2013 by Richard
Greatest lawyer ever he got me off the hook with a year hanging over my head and a pregnant girlfriend when my case was told bull. When I did eventually have to show up to court he got my case dismissed that very day, even after I told him to sign a deal for 200 hours of Caltrans and a few years of probation his answer was to have faith in him because he had faith me. The only thing that he asked of me was to make a promise to him that I would stay out of trouble so that I wouldn't ever need him again. Five years later and Ive kept that promise and so you know that my situation was real my name is Richard e reed jr tell him I recommended him to you and thank you Robert hickey for my freedom
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25 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
This guy really helped me when I was in a serious bind. As I recall, I was SOL, and he brought me from serious jail time, to a lesser sentence. I truely thank him! I hope you discover the power of Hickey!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Brian schram
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07 Aug, 2023 by Richard hutchins
I had a fantastic experience working with Justine Dell as my family lawyer. Her fairness, attentive listening, and dedication to addressing my concerns and needs were truly commendable. I am extremely thankful for everything she did for me.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Monica martinez
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23 Oct, 2024 by Steve
Buddy went in on a restraining order for me. My ex wanted to leave the state with my kids and he put the stops on it. Not only did he do that but he got me full custody of my two kids. Because I'm a man I always thought the courts favored the woman in a case but he put on a solid argument for me and we won. He also accepted payments from me because I didn't have the funds to pay all at once. He also didn't charge me for phone calls and emails like many attorneys do for their time. He's a little harsh at times but I didn't hire a therapist. I hired a fighter and that's what I got. Thanks Buddy. You rocked it Bro!
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03 Feb, 2019 by Jason
He was very affordable and aggressive in court. He helped me get custody again. Highly recommend.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Doug
After four attorneys, I finally picked the right attorney. Buddy got my kids back from Tennessee. I am very grateful. Highly recommended. Very competent.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Nathan
I hired Timothy Mulhere to represent me facing a charge for PC 245 (A) (1) F Force/ADW Not firearm: GBI case involving two other suspects/defendants. Basically law enforcement alleged that I was driving a vehicle occupied by two other suspects when one or more shot a boy in the eye with a paintball gun while riding a bicycle producing great bodily injury (GBI). In addition, it was alleged the two suspects went on foot to shoot paintballs and BB’s from a BB gun at property and vehicles in violation of PC 594 (A). The two suspects were later arrested and law enforcement recovered a paintball gun and BB gun from the two suspects. Since law enforcement did not believe that I was not involved with the other two suspects they tried to add an additional charge of conspiracy PC 182 to the case which was later struck down. Private counsel Timothy Mulhere did nothing to dispute or challenge the weak evidence and car of the prosecution. Fact(s): 1. Law enforcement never seen or established I or my vehicle was at the scene of the alleged crime(s). Made inference based on pure speculation and hearsay. 2. The alleged victim stated he saw a gold SUV possible a Chevy Blazer. I drive a gold Chevy S10 pick-up truck. Two distinctly different types of vehicles. Victim’s initial statements made to law enforcement and positive field identification completely contradict one another. Plus victims alleged eye injury should have came into question of accurately making a positive field identification or any claims. 3. I was never found with or possessed any weapon, or accused of possessing a weapon. Nor was I ever identified or accused of having any connection or association with the alleged victim(s). The only matter of evidence pending against me were the alleged two paintballs and paint splatter that was allegedly on my vehicle. The two paint balls could’ve been dropped there by the suspects without me knowing or planted by law enforcement themselves when searching my vehicle. The paint splatter could’ve been place by the suspects or law enforcement given the amount of time my vehicle was left unattended. Law enforcement claimed the paint splatter was wet which would be hard to believe given the physical properties and amount of time it takes paint splatter to dry. Based on these circumstances any competent or reasonable attorney would have moved or motioned to challenge the alleged charges and facts pertaining to the case. I’m not sure if he read or even attempted to read the police report or did any due diligence to investigate the weak evidence and speculative hearsay evidence of law enforcement and the DA. Private counsel Timothy Mulhere did absolutely NOTHING!!! During preliminary stages he was hard to reach and did not provide much information or insight into what was taking place. Results: Private counsel Timothy Mulhere advise me to take a plea deal and plead no contest which was a huge mistake given the circumstances and weak evidence against me. I was convicted and placed on probation for 3 years for a crime I never committed all due to the incompetence and lack of efficient counsel and representation of Private counsel Timothy Mulhere. Today I’m still suffering and paying for Mr. Mulhere’s incompetence and horrible advice of taking the plea deal. Mind you this took place in 2010. I would not have even given him one star but I guess you have to for rating purposes not sure. Complete waste of $4,000 + dollars to end up with the results that I did given the facts and circumstances of the evidence against me. I would not recommend hiring Timoth Mulhere based personal experience and lack of performance. Not worth the money or time. Especially if he’s not going to do the job.
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12 Jul, 2017 by Greg
Hard to reach, NEVER AVAILABLE. wouldn't even return a text, let alone a phone call or text, waste of $ since public Def would've accomplished the same. When he did respond, it was usually a text snapping at me to stop contacting him because he's busy. Hired him in 2011 (Tustin). I appreciate busy lawyer schedules, but really?
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13 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Had a .02 and got convicted of a wet reckless, which later turned into a 2nd DUI. and screwed me bigtime Multiple lawyers told me that the .02 should have been thrown out by a lawyer who spend more time on it, and that I probably would have gotten the same result if I saved the fee and just used the court appointed lawyer. Nice guy but never got the feeling he spend a lot of time on my case.
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27 Mar, 2023 by M
Charged me over $40,000 came to court unprepared every single time did not have the proper documentation that I provided to him months in advance. Take copies of your own documents to court if you decide you want to hire him. The only thing he did, that was good, was the deposition, but he was not able to use it in court, because he forgets things and he’s very rude. He promised me everything and delivered nothing, failed every single time. Other lawyers called him a showman.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Look at all of the reviews. I have a similar experience as one of the reviewers. My case was also passed off from father to son. Great experience with the father (Milo), horrible experience with the son (Mathew). The attorney failed to close out my case administratively. I didn't even get a final judgement (of course they charge you for every document, "even emails"). My issues are deep with this office and I'm about to go file a complaint and enter into some litigation behind the outcome of my past case. Just like the prior reviewer stated they don't return calls (at least Matthew doesn't, father is now retired). Most importantly is the lack of respect.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Kate
Best attorney you can ask for in criminal/family law. He manages your expectations so you know exactly what to expect. In serious matters like this, I greatly value how straight forward he is. He as also referred me to the best traffic lawyer that I have now used for years. He is also very reliable and answer your questions and concerns with urgency. You really get what you pay for with Matthew!
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31 May, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer is unprofessional! She has lost my LO case because of her lack of her doing her job! She continued to push out the case for 90 days and after a year and half of waiting to have this lawyer not fight or do her job to get him out knowing that he qualified for this bill and deserved to be out !!! She is so unprofessional that her actions lead to her crying in the court room in front of the judge and other lawyers!!! If you get her as an attorney… FIRE HER DO NOY LET HER REPRESENT!!
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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