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Daniel Everett Cook, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 1 reviews
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35,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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13 Aug, 2021 by Orlando
Mr Cook's professionalism and expertise does not go unnoticed. He answered all of my questions, and was completely transparent throughout the process. Unfortunately I put myself in a position to need representation, but Im glad I found Mr Cook!
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Ari Meyer Bulmash, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 14 reviews
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35,01
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5.0/5
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5.0
14 Reviews
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22 Jun, 2024 by Stan s
Ryan wrote my will seven years ago. He has just written, and gained, my living trust. Everything you will read in the reviews … it's true! Hope I've got him for life. Shout out to Matt Colliss for connecting us.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Denise dang
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28 Aug, 2023 by Nanette hendrickson
My husband and I met with Ryan to evaluate and update the Living Trust we executed years ago with an on-line service. We are very glad we did! Ryan was able to quickly summarize the changes we needed to make and suggested additional steps we should take to finalize our estate plan. From beginning to end, Ryan is highly professional and trustworthy. No gimmicks, pressure or uncomfortableness. Highly recommend!
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Saleem Ishi Belbahri, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 3 reviews
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35,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
3 Reviews
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13 Nov, 2023 by Mdmsfan “mdmsfan”
Great place to work.
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28 May, 2020 by Andre densby
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05 Aug, 2019 by Myesha alamri
A bunch of awesome
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James Joseph Fishel, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 11 reviews
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34,71
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4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
11 Reviews
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09 Nov, 2023 by Delaney
Attorney James Fishel has represented me for multiple legal matters spanning from 2013 to 2023, and I am compelled to share my positive experience. James Fishel's guidance has been invaluable, particularly in navigating complex custody issues concerning one of my children. His expertise and dedication were evident throughout the process, ultimately leading to a resolution that prioritized the safety and well-being of my child. One of Mr. Fishel's standout qualities is his unwavering honesty. He provided realistic expectations and a clear roadmap of the necessary steps, ensuring I was well-informed at every stage. This transparency instilled confidence and trust in his representation. Equally commendable is the kindness and professionalism displayed by Mr. Fishel's paralegal, Sunny. Together, they created a supportive and empathetic environment, making a challenging legal journey more manageable. In summary, James Fishel's legal expertise, honesty, and the compassionate approach of his team have made a significant impact on my family law cases. I wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and caring family law attorney.
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08 Apr, 2021 by William
I used James because he was in my network for a home repair dispute. He was very friendly and his demand letter got me exactly what I needed! Thank you Mr. Fishel!
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14 Apr, 2020 by Tom
I'd put off starting my case partly out of confusion about what to do, in what order. My Fishel reviewed my docs and walked me through the changes and the next action steps. His guidance will make a postive difference in how the case goes. Mr. Fishel has been clear, concise and compassionate. I greatly appreciate both him and Sunny Debord in his office. I will be working with them on the next steps.
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Danielle R. Mohling, experienced Criminal Defense, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 27 reviews
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32,93
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4.7/5
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4.7
27 Reviews
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20 May, 2024 by Ivan vindiola
The experience was great with Jason! He helped fix my situation and I have recommended him to others. 10/10 service !!
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20 May, 2024 by Yasmin de leon
I was recommended by a family member and they got my case dropped very quickly! I appreciate the honesty and help from Jason.
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20 May, 2024 by Anthony martinez
They were very helpful and always on top of everything. I will highly recommend these guys to anybody in need !
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Deborah Gjelhaug Levine, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 28 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,28
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4.7/5
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4.7
28 Reviews
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22 Jun, 2024 by Stan s
Ryan wrote my will seven years ago. He has just written, and gained, my living trust. Everything you will read in the reviews … it's true! Hope I've got him for life. Shout out to Matt Colliss for connecting us.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Denise dang
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31 Oct, 2023 by Robert
DON'T USE THIS ATTORNEY. NEVER!
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Richard Allen Madsen Jr, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 7 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,36
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4.5/5
Avvo
4.5
7 Reviews
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16 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
My case ended late last year and I just have to appreciate this law firm for their support and helpful and outstanding representation to me during a long and difficult period of my life where I wasn't sure what would happen, it's hard not to know what to expect when everything feels foreign but Sherry was always friendly and quick to answer all of my messages and keep me in the loop about dates and things that were happening and tell me the status so I knew they were on top of it and not to worry. And Rick worked hard for a long time to get my case over with a great result, so THANK YOU to Rick and Sherry and to anybody reading, I would highly recommend this excellent representation and legal team to help you!!!
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18 Mar, 2022 by Tadashi
Rick and Sherry were outstanding! This firm was recommended by my friend and they totally blew me away from day one signing the contract to all the way appealing to the court. They are prompt, communicative, and always provided me clear instructions on what to do next. My case was dismissed with no fine and no mark on my record. Their level of professional work was amazing. A big thanks to Rick and Sherry! I can't tell you how much I appreciate your service! :)
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14 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I was very glad to have Mr. Madsen as my attorney on two different legal actions, that needed expert legal representation. He not only got me the best results in both cases, his fees were more than fair. I had recommended Mr. Madsen to a family member on an unrelated issue and there outcome was more than positive in the outcome. I would recommend Mr. Madsen to anyone in a legal bind.
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Mary Patricia Carey, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 2 reviews
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13,69
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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12 Jul, 2022 by Andrea
I do not recommend attorney Mary P. Carey. I hired her for a dependency case and was very dissatisfied with her results.
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08 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mary was excellent to work with on issues; very knowledgeable, very low-key, but perceptive. Lots of experience not only with judical and cps system, but great for difficult teens(talking to them and getting the teen to listen and understand the ramifications of poor choices made by teen).
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David Jonathon Simon, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Thomas M. Fleming, experienced Criminal Defense, DUI / DWI attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Qiana Teri Washington, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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20 May, 2019 by Faig habibov
I hired Qiana Washington for my case, it was worst experience in my life. Spend $20.000 for nothing. I paid more than $500 for get appointment. She charged more than $500 when I appealed for the bill. charged about $2000 for the third court which she was not ready. I asked why you trying to extend my case, she said we are not loosing any thing(it means she does not care your money). She charged about $2500 for texting message or e mail. 1 text message at least $40 which she did not spend 1 minute to answer. Finally she won my case, but it was not her success. She does not care your case, she cares your money. if have any question I am ready to answer I will complain her to the BAR soon. Thank you
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Mark W. Kelsey, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Thomas Daly, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Manjula Martin, experienced Criminal Defense, DUI / DWI attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Samuel Geller, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Briana Joyce Bramer, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Christopher Ryan Varnell, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Holly Anne Mackinnon, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Thomas Francis McKenna, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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David Joseph Larkin, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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James P McDonald, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Raymond Howard Robinson, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Raul Arroyo-Mendoza, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Natalie Denise Saba, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Caroline J McCormick, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Tina Kaur-Campbell, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Lorna Kathryn Spencer, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Joni Spears, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Jonathan Todd Laba, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Barry L. Morris, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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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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