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04 Feb, 2023 by Delfido cavazos
A few decades ago, Russ fought tooth and nail for me, and I am free this day because I chose to have him represent me. He continues to hold his standards of representing people the same as he did when he started his practice, and he is the best courtroom brawler that I have seen in a jury trial. I highly recommend Russ Sr. in the Waco area and his son, Russ Jr. in the Williamson County area. Thank you Russ Sr. for never giving up on fighting my cases.
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02 Sep, 2022 by Layton marrs
17 May, 2022 by Mikah robertson
04 Feb, 2023 by Delfido cavazos
A few decades ago, Russ fought tooth and nail for me, and I am free this day because I chose to have him represent me. He continues to hold his standards of representing people the same as he did when he started his practice, and he is the best courtroom brawler that I have seen in a jury trial. I highly recommend Russ Sr. in the Waco area and his son, Russ Jr. in the Williamson County area. Thank you Russ Sr. for never giving up on fighting my cases.
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02 Sep, 2022 by Layton marrs
17 May, 2022 by Mikah robertson
25 Oct, 2023 by Esme p
I don't recommend it, they don't take anything seriously and they just want the money and don't do their job. And they get upset when you ask for an explanation!
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07 Feb, 2023 by Daly mg
Very courteous and professional!!
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08 Sep, 2022 by Larry charles “chip” howell
26 Nov, 2019 by Shannon
To anyone who has been in search of a damn good attorney ? you can end your search rt here * rt now. Sam Martinez is hands down the best there is. I say this because majority of lawyers don't put there heart into; not just you, but the whole of you such as you and your family. It was as if he literally put his self in my shoes and his kiddos in my kiddos shoes. And he paved a way for me and my children to be a family again. When everything and every one was against me. And the evidence and or my past history w cps was piling up against me. And I saw no silver lining in my most darkest of storm clouds. God answered my prayers and blessed me with an amazing attorney Mr. Sam Martinez..He was my second attorney after a year of fighting cps. I wish he would of been my lawyer the entire time. But I was blessed to have him when I got him because he was also my criminal lawyer as well. So here him and I are in two diff court rooms all in the same day or week time frame..and I'm think n to self "no way this man understand me and my situation ?? I bet he thinks I'm a complete idiot cuz who gets there self in situations as awfully as mine was? I wasnt everything that was being said about me and he knew it..He fought for me when I couldnt for myself. All though it had been years 14 to be exact since I had a felony. The fact remained I was and or still had priors and had been down twice before when I was younger. At first the state wanted to give me twenty years for pocs w intent to deliver a little more then a gram of meth..I was floored and shocked to the core of my being. I knew probation wasnt a possibility. He diligently worked my case and after 9 months of pleadings. I signed for 5 years TDC..And while I was in county waiting to pull chain. I still had him as my family attorney in ref to my cps case. He came to see me in jail. He was my only visitor and more loyal then any blood at the time. He told me not to worry he would make sure my children were safe and to send there letters to him and he made sure they got them. He didn't have to do that but he did. He didn't have to do a lot of the things he did for me and the kids best interest but he did..He didn't have to pick up the pieces a prior attorney I had before him left behind, but he did! But here's the part that wrote his name on the tablet of my heart and the hearts of my kids..He hand wrote me short letters to every unit I was transferred to while in TDC..Who does that these days? Who in the middle of there day stops and sais " hey how are you hope all is well and this is what's going on out here but don't worry etc etc etc" nobody does that, , but Sam did and that's why hes the best. He don't half ass you to death. He don't sugar coat things cuz he just wants to get paid. He gets paid way more in blessings then any dollar amount set on any table any day of the week. Because his heart is right and hes an attorney for the people. I did 7 months on that 5 and got out and we went back at it w CPS in family court. They wanted to take my rights but he didn't let them. He did what no other lawyer could do and was court appointed at that. He fought against the state because he knew in his heart of hearts what they were trying to do and it wasnt right. Sam is a winner and he made sure as my lawyer that I was and a winner too..If it wasn't for him I would still be in prison and I would not be with my kids. He is a wonderful person and the best attorney you could ever have. I have more respect for this man then he will ever know. And I will be thanking him until my last breath. The state striped me down to a naked I couldn't fathom. Sam, wasnt having it and he went to batt for me and he will for you too! Just be honest and I promise you that you won't be disappointed by retaining him as your lawyer. Sam if your reading this please know I will never forget you and my kids said "thanks for giving them there Mama back"
God Bless You and your Family AlwaysS huh Shannon Hudson Torrez
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04 Apr, 2018 by Gensis hibbard
Martinez was an excellent attorney. He was very upfront and honest and answered all our questions. He represented my husband and saved him from getting a life sentence. We would suggest anyone to hire him.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Valeria
He repesented my son in a murder trial in McLennan county. Never questioned on witness, was not present when the district attorneys prosecuting the case came to talk to my son at the county jail. Lied to my son and our entire family for 2 years stating if my son would plead guilty he would only be convicted of making a false statement and tampering with evidence. If not, he would get a life sentence. He coerced my son who has a learning disability into pleading guilty to show taking responsibility for what happened. My son had no previous felony convictions.
Two other men were also charged in the same crime. One was a sexual offender and had previously served time in TDCJ. Needless to say, my son did receive a life sentence and the other two received 20 years. I truly do not know how he sleeps at night!!
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07 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired him to do legal defense, yet it turned out to be the worst decision in my life. He attended two of my hearings, the first one he attended the hearing 15 minutes late. For the second hearing it actually last roughly 18 to 20 minutes. However, he was trying to charge me it for 30 minutes, until I pointed out the timing issue. He never replied my email or phone call in time. There was one time I had some new evidence came up and I was hoping that he could help me to check whether these evidence could be helpful to my case. I tried to contact him multiple times in a time span of 10 days, but failed, he never answered my call nor my email. After more than two weeks, he finally let me know that he was ill... This guys is truely unprofessional, just avoid him.
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08 Apr, 2019 by Jr
If you reading this please don’t every go to Seth when I walked in the door he played me like a whistle. I’m all for the justice system and being fair and I take full responsibility for my actions. I paid Seth 2,500 dollars and he didn’t do a damn thing to help my case. After a whole year and a half of waiting on a court date I was scheduled to appear in court I had a meeting with Seth. He didn’t have the Original pullover type or anything to show we had a chance to win my case all he had was the DA information and told me it’s in my best interest to take probation. This was my first time ever being charged with a crime and I’m 30 years old now. Save yourself the trouble never go to this office I would’ve been better of with a Public defender the original charge was dwi and Possession under 2 ounces. I just took a plea deal today and ended up with a 100 hrs of community service and 3 Mandatory classes or drug and alcohol awareness. But wait this the best part when I was pulled over I never got a Breathalyzer on site they took me straight to jail every in my blood I didn’t have any alcohol in my system I tested for positive for THC. It’s bad enough you get Rail road by the system but you hire a lawyer to defend you and he doesn’t even Attempt to do his job. But I guess that’s how it goes I’ll never make a Impulsive decision like this again please do research before hiring any attorney
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30 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Got hung out to dry. Did nothing to prepare for my case. Lied and sold me on bad plea on case that was a easy win! If just did what paid to do? But helps destroy a persons life that was undeserved in any way. Clearly cared less about it after!
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29 Mar, 2024 by David winfrey
The lawyers and their team are very professional. They did an awesome job. They did EXACTLY WHAT THEY SAID THEY WOULD DO! I am grateful for all they did for me and my family! I will be using Callahan & King for now on.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Rebecca browder
I recently had the opportunity to work with Chris and his law firm on a very lengthy and complicated case. My experience with the Law Firm was very pleasant, and the attorneys were great to work with on all counts.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Galaxy note michael kasten
The experience was a fine one.
I was facing a very serious situation.
1 phone call from the lawyer, letting me know he was representing
.2 short conversations with paralegal
1 follow up conversation ,from ,lawyer letting me
know of "The most desirable outcome". Top notch.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Shelly
There are good attorneys and then there are scumbags. Denny Lessman definitely falls under the scumbag category. We were in his office for (his words) a peaceful discussion. That was until we spoke our feelings and he did not like it. He then proceeded to get in my face aggressively and then when my husband stood up and told my son and I we needed to leave, this scumbag told my husband to “get the f*ck out of” his office. Then proceeded to shove my husband. Then opened the door and shoved my husband to the ground. In his parents defense, my MINOR son went after this scumbag and he thought it appropriate to hit my minor son. When I told him I was calling the police he told me “no you aren’t”. I did call the police Mr Scumbag told them he just used reasonable force to remove us from his office. We were trying to leave when he attacked. The guys from a neighboring office came to check on us and advised they had been warned he was crazy before he moved in. My suggestion…. Steer clear!!
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28 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Dennys, which I was always directed to call him ripped $3000 from my family while I was in County Jail. Needless to say he unfairly advised me I would have to "just accept" the first offer of 2 years TDCJ or I would do 40 years on a very small amount of a drug. My husband got scared and told me to take it, and my family was ripped in shreds by my transfer to a transfer unit since I had under 2 years left to serve and then my husband was "magically" removed from my visitors list as well as my son. I've been out for several years but the damage it did to my family and my mental health is unfathomable. Never thought a criminal defense attorney would just basically kanive someone of their money, but this was my first offense and very naive and now know why attorneys get paid big bucks, but they are also the biggest crooks. And he preached his spirituality. I didn't learn "jailhouse religion" I learned God is our Savior, protector, and forgives all. And upon release found a wonderful Church Ministry that I am very proud to be a part of. God Bless Mr Dennis Lessman, I bless not curse you. Thanks in Jesus's name!
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14 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a bad feeling about "Denny" the first time he told me to call him "Denny" through a cheshire smile. Wish I had done my research on this guy first, and his son who he practices also has a pretty bad reputation. Apple doesn't fall far unfortunately.
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17 Apr, 2015 by Karen
contacted Curtis W Lucas in May 2014 for help with my case. He took the case with a great outlook on the end result. I left numerous messages and I may have spoken to him four times in almost a year. My questions were left unanswered and last week April 2015 I get a letter saying he is pulling out of my case and now I have to scramble to find someone else!! I know the review guidelines more or less say good things but for the life of me there is nothing good to say! I am told a couple of weeks prior to getting my letter that Mr.Lucas no longer is with the firm! I just wanted answers but I am only left with questions. I have been very ill and I did not need all the headaches that came with my choice of lawyers!! VERY BAD EXPERIENCE AND NOT EVEN AN APOLOGY!!!!
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28 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Fanning is very professional and trustworthy. He has successfully taken care of several problems on my behalf. He is well versed in all aspects of the law. It seems that nothing is beyond his areas of expertise. His honesty is sometimes difficult to hear but even then he has a solution which is comfortable to accept. This man is a genius!!
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07 Apr, 2010 by Angela
it took them over 2 weeks to decide they was not going to take my case. i do not understand that. this is not business llke. i did not even talk with the attorney i talked to the person that takes the information
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02 Feb, 2024 by Chloe
If I could give these people 0 starts I would. He treated my husband like he was just another file on his desk. He purposely gave me and my husband false info just so we could leave him alone. As soon as he got payment he quit answering questions and also the receptionist Veronica or whoever her name is, is RUDE and disrespectful. They are completely unprofessional and I wouldn’t touch this law firm with a 12 inch pole. Highly disappointed. I would not recommend at all.
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02 May, 2015 by Justin
Was great. Wanda his receptionist is very good and will call back. First charge was DWI with poss of Marijuana, PDP. Got it reduced to probation. Five months later I got a second DWI with possession of a dangerous drug, was tazed and everything. That made me in violation of previous probation. Sibleys connections helped us to settle with a great Deal. Very highly recommended.
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22 Sep, 2014 by Abraham
Mr Sibley was very professional the first visit. It became apparent quickly he either does not speak to his staff or they are incompetent. Missed court dates, lying about meeting with DA and the last mistake he made before being fired was he just did not show up for a court date. Over priced junk lawyer. I have had to hire different attorneys but with much better success. Don't waste your time or money.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Romecia
he is not help at all he made me sign a plea deal and what i signed was not what we agreed i was accused of sexual assault of a child i tried to fight but he railroad me it was always something and he told me one thing that made me just sign the plea deal im a innocent black women in waco texas and he told me that a judge told him i said i did it when i never talked to a judge but i was scared what was pose to do a judge against a black women it ain’t no fight to that i got court next eeek and i wanna take my please deal back he is very disrespectful he hung up the phone on my mother and kicked me out his office because i told him the plea deal i signed was not what we agreed on and i wanna take my car to trial because i know i’m innocent and he also got mad because i brought up a charge with him sexual assaulting 5 year old explaining to him he had a chance to fight i wanna fight im only 23 years old and i have a life my apartment is right next to a park i have nieces and nephews and little cousin that look up to me i hope when i go to court i can’t fire him and take it to trial even tho im on a pre sentence investigation i wanna fight for my freedom my freedom is all i have
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29 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
People are strange...yeah, no. Everything goes wrong with this guy.
https://wacotrib.com/news/waco-attorney-indicted-for-alleged-sexual-contact-with-young-girl/article_8a271302-5392-574a-902e-7e79fdb72269.html
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05 Sep, 2014 by Scott
I was referred to this attorney after getting arrested for some ridiculous charges, from my bail bondsman, from a ex friend of mine. This attorney was very helpful, flexible and very pleasant to deal with. Would recommend him any day, and twice on Sunday!
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28 Jul, 2023 by Lori
He did no investigation, would not look at evidence that I gathered. Had a court date on a Monday, he called my HR department and my boss. I told him if I plead the deal I would still lose my job understand Moral turpitud. He just wanted me to have to at the very least get probation and have to go every month to pay the county and pee in a cup. It was an outrageous failure in our justice system. After he spoke with HR, as soon as I got to my desk, he called ME to tell me the case was dismissed. If I had plead the deal, I would have been out of a job and whatever THEY decided would be my punishment!
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28 Dec, 2019 by Shannon
Darren represented me in a family law case in 2004. He returned my phone calls, gave updates on my case and very professional in court. I would recommend him for family law cases without hesitation.
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24 Dec, 2017 by Lori
I would like my money back! Never returned. I did ALL my own research he didn't want to see it. Twice in his office. Paid 2500. I had the proof! The jerk called me at work on a Friday asking me to plea from agg. assault to simple assault! No! I was going to plea anything! I wanted my day in court! The call on that Friday, had a court date on MONDAY! He called my HR dept. and my boss. I was in the room, I had already told him I would still be fired if I had any kind of ASSAULT! They claimed they couldn't find the lying Amber Russell! After my HR lady told him I would be fired even if I plead to simple assault! It's called moral turpitude! He was the worst lawyer I ever had to deal with. After the call to my work place, wasn't but just a few minutes, he called me to say there was no court on MONDAY!
It had been dismissed! He threw me under the bus! He helped me not at all except he screwed me and took my money! So Merry Christmas you worthless lawyer!
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26 Dec, 2023 by Doraluz perez
I call them ask for an appointment the Lady say will call me and I never heard from them
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12 Nov, 2023 by Kallan salganik
I had a terrible experience with attorney Carlos Diaz. The communication was not as professional as I would expect from a legal representative. I recently required legal assistance for what I believed to be a straightforward matter—a simple traffic ticket with clear evidence to contest it. Based on my experience, I lacked confidence in Carlos Diaz’s approach and felt that the level of advocacy did not meet my expectations. I would have reservations about entrusting even such an easy case to this attorney again.
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17 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Mary Frances Kucera lied throught the whole trial. She did not help in any way. Things went downhill since I hired her. She never kept me informed and hated when I asked questions. She did not answer many of my phone calls and would make faces and rude comments at me. Throughout the trial she did not say much, she had her co-workers doing the work for her. I was not happy with her as my attorney.
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22 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Had a court date. Sat there at Bell County Courthouse for two hours. He didn't show up. I called his office. They said he would get back to me. Sat there for ten more minutes and he sent me a text with another date and time. I just want to get this mess over with.
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12 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I had a horrible experience with Carmen Smith. Never returned phone calls, emails or anything for that matter. Went to court to find out a class needed to be taken ( that I was unaware of ) She was my attorney for almost 1 year! Divorce decree was wrong by a year and we had to file a "nunc pro tunc" to get it straightned out. ( So, from the AG standpoint, it looks as if I have back child support that needs to be paid) ;/ If you have never dealt with the AG consider yourself lucky!!! It took almost 3 years for the AG to finally understand that I am not behind. I would advise to spend your money elsewhere. I wish someone would have given me that advice years ago.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Tammy
I wasn't informed about anything. From a xase in 2003 in fort hood tx. I don't believe my Mother and daughter were represented sufficiently
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FAQs
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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.
