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01 Jan, 2025 by Verne singleton
DcD Law is a very good company to have work for you. They get the job done quickly. The one associate I spoke to Chloe Belles was very professional and also Knowledgeable. Of what I needed to take care of my law issues. I would Use them again. Thank you for all your help.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Emily valenti
Excellent service. Chloe was very knowledgeable and respectful. Quick to return a phone call and get an answer to any questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mary murman
I can’t say enough good things about this staff, the personalization all the members show is above and beyond!!
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26 Nov, 2024 by David nava
Thanknu
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jim roberson
Attorney Nader handled a difficult tenant situation with ease, his clear understanding and prompt response is priceless.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Dr. s eyewear
Mr. Nader is a very helpful and knowledgeable attorney. He communicates well and is very well-versed in real estate.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Hayette
I am extremely satisfied with the work that Erika and her team have done for me so far. They are efficient, they keep you up to date on your case, they are very knowledgeable and kind. They ensured me they would do anything in their power to help, and they did. I am so grateful to have found Erika and her team!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Evelyn
Exelente.muy buen trabajo todo mesalio bien grasias a Dios y a la abogada Erika muchas grasias leagradesco Dios la bendiga
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04 Dec, 2024 by Yolanda
I give thanks to God for the life of attorney Erika Roman, a brave, professional, and honest woman who tirelessly helped us for several years in pursuing a resident visa in the United States. She never gave up until achieving victory. We are grateful to her and her diligent and professional team. MayGod continue to bless her.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Kristine truong
Garret helped my family member on a serious felony case and had his back from start to finish. I have known garret for over 20 years and he is the best in his field!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Gi pruitt
Really good down to earth people who aren’t just trying to get your money they actually care about they’re clients and do the necessary work needed to provide the best outcome or possibly i highly recommend! 💯
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02 Jan, 2025 by Marla grenier
Garret is truly the best Defense lawyer in the Valley! I highly recommend him. He is detail oriented, smart and knows how to win tough cases like mine was. Garret has the ability to negotiate through strength and win bc he knows the law and your rights.
If you are struggling or in a tight spot give Garret a call he will help you with the process. He made me feel I was not alone. Garret has a strong legal team to back him up with many winning angles.
Thank you Garret for being there for me and always taking my call when I thought it was over!!
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22 Mar, 2023 by Angelo mira
06 Feb, 2018 by Neil
Kate Rahimi Immigration Lawyer
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Kate Rahimi is a multi lingual experienced, efficient & effective attorney.
Kate practices Immigration Law, as well as Criminal Defense, Personal Injury & Consumer Protection.
I really like her personality & highly recommended her. Kate helped me with my personal immigration issues, as to matters with my wife. She was very insightful & practical.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Rosemary martinez
She's taking care of my car acssident and she has made this bad expiriance a much better one. That you Kate
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22 Mar, 2023 by Angelo mira
04 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I went to the Law Offices of Roman P. Mosqueda last October 2014 to petition my children and wife. My case was complicated. I did the petition for my children and wife by myself and with no knowledge filled out the forms incorrectly. I was frustrated and stressed because immigration was sending me letters which I didn’t understand. I decided to seek the help of Mr. Mosqueda. When I first met Atty. Mosqueda he was very patient and courteous as well as his assistant Crystal. Crystal went above and beyond to help me with my ignorance with immigration. Within four months my family got an interview and is now residing with me which was a dream come true. Therefore, I would like to commend Atty. Mosqueda and all the staff for their help specially Crystal. God bless them for their kindness and patience.
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01 Sep, 2012 by Carol
Atty Ramon and his team is a Top Gun! Helped me evict a very difficult tenant. My tenant is a gold digger, subleasing my place illegally. Tenant use all type of excuses to earn $$$. Having Atty Ramon helped stopped instead i was able to get an order from court that he will pay for all my cost and pay more! Best of All his out of my territory.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Pedro lovo
08 Nov, 2024 by Jessie gutierrez
16 Oct, 2024 by Farouq o
Prestige law firm is a great firm, I have been their client for a long time now and they always treated me with a warm welcome and got me the help I needed.
Mr.Paul Aghabala is an amazing Attorney.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Chris cordoba
I have been in a couple of car accidents and needed help from an Attorney to know my rights when it comes to car accidents. I was recommended to Susano who took car of me through the process of getting the medical attention needed and if any fund might be awarded. I didn’t have to pay anything upfront and have the best results possible. I would highly recommend using Susanos firm to anyone in need.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Sami flores
Susano and everyone at his firm are the best team you can ask for. They gave me peace of mind throughout the whole process making sure i was always informed of any important updates in my case. Very happy with the outcome of my now closed case. Greatly appreciate the timeliness and ease thank you guys again!
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31 May, 2024 by Adan garcia
very good service
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09 Sep, 2024 by Chris cordoba
I have been in a couple of car accidents and needed help from an Attorney to know my rights when it comes to car accidents. I was recommended to Susano who took car of me through the process of getting the medical attention needed and if any fund might be awarded. I didn’t have to pay anything upfront and have the best results possible. I would highly recommend using Susanos firm to anyone in need.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Sami flores
Susano and everyone at his firm are the best team you can ask for. They gave me peace of mind throughout the whole process making sure i was always informed of any important updates in my case. Very happy with the outcome of my now closed case. Greatly appreciate the timeliness and ease thank you guys again!
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31 May, 2024 by Adan garcia
very good service
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24 Oct, 2024 by Ann-margaret mercier
I contacted Jacob after the salesman who sold me my car at my local Mercedes-Benz dealership recommended that I contact a lemon law attorney. My 2023 Mercedes AMG C43 gave me nothing but trouble: the check engine light came on very frequently, and my car was in the shop every other month. Most recently, the car had been in for a full four weeks (28 days exactly) after having to be towed. I received no updates from the dealership during that one-month period. Furthermore, every time the car went in for extra service, I had to fight the dealership for a loaner car, which was highly stressful and angering. To make matters worse, I had opted for a C43 after briefly driving an EQS 580 I strongly disliked that I had received as a result of an error that Mercedes made when I had actually ordered a different car that had arrived in the wrong interior color. So I was massively overpaying for a faulty C-class vehicle, adding insult to injury.
Jacob told me he was confident that by sending a demand letter to Mercedes, he could get me out of my overpriced C43 lease, but he didn't think I would recover much additional money. To our delight, I not only got out of my lease but was reimbursed for all of my lease payments. I was able to put some of that money toward an electric BMW that I am now leasing for a small fraction of what I was overpaying for the lemon Mercedes.
Jacob was highly responsive to emails and texts, and it was easy to get a hold of staff at his office. His employees were friendly and attentive, and the process was very streamlined, making things easy for me. I never had to go to the office in-person. I am incredibly grateful to Jacob and his staff for helping to make things right for me. I would highly recommend Jacob and his team to others looking for a fair resolution to lemon vehicle woes.
Thank you, Jacob and staff!! I am incredibly grateful.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Rudy
Things went smoothly with Chirnese behind the wheel. She responds really quick to your questions as well. She really helped me out. Highly recommend.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Lewis white
Jacob is a wonderful attorney. He answered my questions and because I was 95% through the Lemon Law process — he wanted to offer advice as opposed to delaying the situation thru me adding him under retainer. He was honest forthright and communicative. He answered three series of questions on three different occasions which contributed to a successful settlement result. Thank you Jacob — I will absolutely recommend your services in the future.
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19 Jun, 2022 by Josh
Excellent services and advice was provided. Leah was very professional and helpful throughout the whole court and legal process. She had great communication and was always keeping us updated on new developments on our case. Leah was also very responsive, answered all our questions, and worked hard for me and my case.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Janet
I retained Leah and Dan when my son unfortunately had a DUI. They were both kind, knowledgeable, thorough and personable. They truly care about their clients. In addition, they were always reachable for questions and support. I would highly recommend them if you have an unfortunate situation.
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19 Aug, 2019 by Lisa
If you find yourself in need of an outstanding criminal defense attorney, look no further than Leah. I chose the one with all 5 star reviews with an office located across the street from the Van Nuys court house. I figured she might know people there which could be a good thing. When I called her with my issue, she was out of the office as her daughter was having a baby. I left a message (crying hysterically) on the voice mail. She called back within 10 minutes and kept me on the phone until I could get set up with immediate face to face help (with her partner in the office). I could literally hear a baby crying in the background. Maybe she was in the delivery room? So the baby and I were BOTH crying--me from the mess I got myself into, and the baby for more obvious reasons. I went in that same afternoon to speak with her legal partner, Mr. Melnick, and they immediately began to work on my case to ease my nerves. They are very good with anything psych related. She went to court--over and over again, without settling for anything less than a dismissal with some community service. This was no easy task as it was a very delicate, difficult, embarrassing, case which had to be presented with kid gloves. This lady knows how to seamlessly deal with the client, DA, and judge while developing rapport in a most sublime way. It would have been in her favor $ and time wise to settle (sooner) as she does not get paid extra money when this is drawn out as it was--but no, she really does care about the client, and drawing this out eventually helped to get this dismissed. I sweat bullets for months and I know it was not easy for her, either, but she is too kind to admit it. She is calm and cool, always maintaining a positive, professional demeanor. When I thanked her, she said, "No need, I love doing this sort of thing". The fact that she apparently has lots of children probably works in her favor (as well as the clients) since she understands all the complexities that one can have and how a mostly good person can get into a legal snafoo. She is anything but judgy. Lastly, Leah actually saved my life. I was ready to jump off the cliff at Universal Studios (although I would never admit to such a thing) because I literally saw no way out when I called her. How she knew this, I don't know. Why she would stay on the phone with me when she was on leave for the birth of her granddaughter is beyond me as well. That said, if you find yourself in a desperate situation, give this lady a call. She may even save your life as she did mine:)
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20 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Answered thoroughly and honestly. Then provided follow up suggestions as well to resolve possible issues!
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06 Jul, 2021 by Jose
First and foremost thank you David for making my experience through all the legal proceedings flow smoothly and convenient for me as a client.
If you are looking for a great DUI Attorney, David will go the lengths and dedicate his time to your case, you have come to the right place. David not only represented me a professional way, but took my case personal and it showed in the final Dismissal resolution of my DUI.
If I was able to give 10 stars I would!
Thank you David
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07 Jun, 2021 by Max
From the beginning of my experience with David, he has delivered on his promises. I was cited for a DUI. He told me he knew everyone including the DA's at Van Nuys court from his decades of experience; it was amusing but true. David referred me to Anthony Scott for my DMV hearing and with his expertise, the DMV set aside my license suspension. David ensured me that this favorable result and his expertise would strengthen my case. Two months later, my DUI charge was dismissed to an ex. speed plea! I prayed such a significant reduction, and with David's magic, it became a reality. If you're in need of a DUI criminal defense attorney, look no further.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Marcos
Called Mr. Melnick,
He explained everything to me, what my next steps were and assisted me with the whole legal process. I can't say enough about how honest and upfront he was with me and was very professional the whole time!
10/10 would recommend to anyone. no need to shop around, money well spent!
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20 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Dan handled my felony case with exceptional care and effectiveness. For my case, Dan performed really well at key inflection points, often showing creativity and thoroughness in his arguments. I was left feeling that I had just the right attorney for my situation, and the fact that Dan is highly respected by judges as honest and ethical, played into my very successful result. I can't recommend him highly enough.
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27 Aug, 2018 by Emiliana
I came to Dan a few times and I want to say it was the best decision I've made. He was very straightforward with me and the best part is the many years of experience he has. He was able to pretty much guess the outcome of my case from just our first consultation. He's a great guy and very easy going and caring!
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03 Apr, 2022 by Christopher potter
Seymour is a great attorney just be patient and he fights for you with all he has he is ready when you go to court and fights like you never thought any would could. He is a genius and is prepared at court Thank You Seymour
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04 Apr, 2015 by Duffy
Seymour is the best lawyer I have ever used. I'm no angel but I'm also not a bad person. I have had many conflicts with the law and on paper the DA and judge see me as if I should be locked up and forgotten about. Seymour has defended me on every case ever since I was a young boy and each time has worked me amazing deals. I was always guilty. He knew it, the cops knew it, and of course the DA and judge knew it. With my neck in the noose Seymour worked the charges down and the time to a minimum. And in many cases no or little time at all. It may take a year or so but he always fulfills his initial promise of what he said he could get me. Not only did he get me 2nd chances over and over again, this last time he gave me a whole new life. Thank you Seymour.
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26 Sep, 2019 by Michelle
I cannot recommend Lior enough!!!! I had a personal injury case that I had given to an attorney who completely neglected my case until about 3 months before the statute of limitations date. I had given up and figured that I wouldn’t push to settle my case and almost let the case go until a friend of mine introduced me to Lior. He literally salvaged and saved my case right away and settled it within a month!!!!! I truly can’t thank him enough for his attentiveness and being so on top of it all.
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11 Mar, 2016 by April
James McNamara has been my attorney in several cases, most of which were last minute giving him only days to prepare. Each case ended favorably on my behalf, thanks to James' expertise, professionalism, and concern for his clients. I would recommend James to anyone, regardless of the nature of the case. He does not judge you or make you feel ashamed in any way, and his knowledge of the criminal justice system is superb, which I can say from personal experience, will make you feel at ease and confident that you picked the right person to represent you in court. I give James a 5 star rating, hands down and without hesitation.
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01 Jan, 2025 by Verne singleton
DcD Law is a very good company to have work for you. They get the job done quickly. The one associate I spoke to Chloe Belles was very professional and also Knowledgeable. Of what I needed to take care of my law issues. I would Use them again. Thank you for all your help.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Emily valenti
Excellent service. Chloe was very knowledgeable and respectful. Quick to return a phone call and get an answer to any questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mary murman
I can’t say enough good things about this staff, the personalization all the members show is above and beyond!!
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01 Jan, 2025 by Verne singleton
DcD Law is a very good company to have work for you. They get the job done quickly. The one associate I spoke to Chloe Belles was very professional and also Knowledgeable. Of what I needed to take care of my law issues. I would Use them again. Thank you for all your help.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Emily valenti
Excellent service. Chloe was very knowledgeable and respectful. Quick to return a phone call and get an answer to any questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mary murman
I can’t say enough good things about this staff, the personalization all the members show is above and beyond!!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Josias martinez
Back in February 2024 I caught a gun charge. With my luck, Barry was able to expunge my criminal offense and maintain my record with no charges. My gun charge was expunged November 2024 thanks to Barry.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jose malvido
Mr. Mora and his team are the ultimate professionals ! Helped me with my case and got great results! Highly recommend them to anyone looking for WC attorney! The best in the business!!!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Vc chappell
I had a great experience with Matt. He helped me alot with my case. Working with him was awesome and I really felt like I had someone on my side. Thanks Matt!
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20 Dec, 2022 by Alejandro
Faith es una persona mui onesta serbicial MUI dedicada asus casos
exelente defensora en la que puedes depender y confíar alta calidad humana
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18 Dec, 2022 by Raja
She is one of the best. She knows what she is doing. Honest and very helpful and friendly.
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17 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Faith is a good attorney she nice thank you for everything faith. She is excellent
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19 Nov, 2024 by Shirley malorzo
Our family is incredibly grateful for Adam at the Peck Law Group for his exceptional representation and belief in what we felt and knew to be inadequate care and negligent care for our mother living in a senior care facility.
Thanks to the efforts of the law firm, we were able to hold the facility accountable and ensure that no other families will have to endure what we did. If you are looking for a law firm that truly cares and will advocate for your loved ones with integrity, we highly recommend the Peck Law Group.
We are forever grateful.
Thank you Adam and the Peck Law Group, Shirley M.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Angela prasad
By far the best law firm! Adam was amazing and helped me settle my fathers wrongful death case with professionalism and compassion. This is exactly what I needed during the most difficult time after losing my father. The outcome was successful and I couldn’t have done it without Peck law firm. Thank you Adam!
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05 Jun, 2024 by Lina abdelrahim
A big thank you to the Peck Law Group and a special thank you to Adam Peck. During a very difficult time for my family and I, Adam really took care of us. He was easy to work with, always answered my calls, and was patient with all the challenges of dealing with my family members. I highly recommend the Peck Law Group to everyone.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Lo Recomiendo al abogado Lino Ruiz, por ayudarme a ganar mi caso de asilo y optener mi residencia en poco tiempo , le agradezco por todo el apoyo que me brindo en este tiempo y su personal muy amable.
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09 May, 2024 by Yeffrey rivera
Es un muy buen abogado lo recomiendo ahora ya soy residente gracias a él muy recomendable
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12 Mar, 2024 by Luis
Desde hace mucho tiempo venimos con el proceso por arreglar mi documentación y hoy 03/12/24 se llegó el día en el cual gracias a dios pude obtener mi residencia gracias al abogado Lino Ruiz es un placer y honor para mí recomendarles su trabajo es excelente.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Max
Jaehoh is meticulous in his attention to detail. He handled a complicated criminal/ immigration for me and my wife and I couldn't be happier. Highly reccomend
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30 Jun, 2016 by Jess esquivias
Michael Duggan actually repented me to the fullest.. He actually did my refund money bak that was confiscated front me.. which I didn't think it was possible.. He speaks up for u and not many lawyers do that.. I recommend him 100%... thanks mr.duggan. .
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15 Jul, 2024 by Marian
I cannot thank my attorney Barry Hammond enough for the outstanding job he did in handling my case. He went above and beyond by speaking to the city attorney and prosecutor on my behalf. As a result my case was settled in a diversion agreement. Barry’s expertise, professionalism, and dedication to my case were truly impressive. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Thank you for everything!
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01 Jan, 2025 by Verne singleton
DcD Law is a very good company to have work for you. They get the job done quickly. The one associate I spoke to Chloe Belles was very professional and also Knowledgeable. Of what I needed to take care of my law issues. I would Use them again. Thank you for all your help.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Emily valenti
Excellent service. Chloe was very knowledgeable and respectful. Quick to return a phone call and get an answer to any questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mary murman
I can’t say enough good things about this staff, the personalization all the members show is above and beyond!!
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Verne singleton
DcD Law is a very good company to have work for you. They get the job done quickly. The one associate I spoke to Chloe Belles was very professional and also Knowledgeable. Of what I needed to take care of my law issues. I would Use them again. Thank you for all your help.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Emily valenti
Excellent service. Chloe was very knowledgeable and respectful. Quick to return a phone call and get an answer to any questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mary murman
I can’t say enough good things about this staff, the personalization all the members show is above and beyond!!
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Verne singleton
DcD Law is a very good company to have work for you. They get the job done quickly. The one associate I spoke to Chloe Belles was very professional and also Knowledgeable. Of what I needed to take care of my law issues. I would Use them again. Thank you for all your help.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Emily valenti
Excellent service. Chloe was very knowledgeable and respectful. Quick to return a phone call and get an answer to any questions I had. Would highly recommend.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mary murman
I can’t say enough good things about this staff, the personalization all the members show is above and beyond!!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Sam hakimbaba
Ms. Moradi is an excellent lawyer and she is very well-versed in what she does. Highly recommend!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Shahrokh bakhtiyari
its been a true pleasure doing business with Moradi's group, as of a very satisfied client will recommend you to feel completely safe and trust me, you're in good hands! professional, responsive, and quick at what they good at. getting the job done right in shortest amount of time.
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16 May, 2024 by Kaylynne mendoza
I just wanted to thank my attorney David M. Slater for all the support. I am very grateful. I am very blessed for having him as my attorney and thank you very much for everything. God bless you. Sincerely Kaylynne Mendoza
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10 May, 2011 by Alberto
i had a mess going on, my business partner tried to rip me off while he and my wife had an affair, then tried to have me arrested for sexual assault. Loren was able to get my business contracts in order, Handled my divorce and custody issues, then he was also able to hande the criminal case and get the DA to throw it out completely!! i can not express how truly amazed i am that this all happened to me, and more importantly that LOren and his staff were able to sort out all my problems.
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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:
-
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.
