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06 Dec, 2022 by Tydajasha imonie elizabeth jones
Her advise, help, and support is deeply appreciated I highly recommend her services! She's Amazing at what she does!
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03 Jan, 2021 by Kate witiak
03 Jan, 2021 by Ash jones
09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
13 Dec, 2024 by Steve durkin
Had a very stressful year, a stupid mistake that could have been a lot worse in so many ways. Vincent worked with me, even when I was stressed (apologies Vincent) He was professional, calm and understanding throughout. I would absolutely recommend him. Listen to what he says, very grateful I picked him.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Daniel murphy
I called Vince to see if he could help a friend with a DUI charge. He walked me through looking up the charges at the county website and seemed knowledgeable about recent changes to legal precedence, since my friend was just sitting in his car, not driving.
We were having a nice interaction and I was thinking I had found the right lawyer, until Vince said he wanted $3,000 just to show up for the preliminary hearing. I had already mentioned that my friend was broke and would need time to work and save for legal fees. When I began to explain that I had already talked to another lawyer that only wanted $750 for the preliminary hearing, Vince interupted me, shouted some rude come back and hung up.
I was willig to work with him if he had just given me a minute to explain the situation, but alas no. That was not meant to be. That left me with even more confirmation of the reason why I find lawyers to be the rude, arrogant, and self-serving. In those departments, Vince did not disappoint. He does sound like a competent lawyer and may be able to help you. But ultimately, they're almost all just in it for the money.
Between the corrupt cops making up charges to justify their fat salaries, the immoral DAs who care nothing about the innocence of the wrongfully charged, and the judges who get paid big money for oh so little work while coddling the prosecution of the innocent, and the defense lawyers who are there to get their pound of flesh, the American judicial system is morally bankrupt.
Hopefully, Divine Justice will prevail in the end, and all these low-life, heartless, perpetrators of this huge scam will experience the pain and suffering they cause by particpating in a corrupt system they are all to happy to benefit from.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie yost
I had a great experience with Vince. He was a tremendous help with my son in reducing charges significantly and ensuring his record would not be negatively impacted. He was reasonable and extremely responsive. I would highly recommend Vince if you are in need of an attorney.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Amanda miller
I hired Alex for my husband drug case. Seemed like a decent guy at first. Talked a good game. 5,000 in his hand from day one! He became the worst attorney. He was very rude and arrogant. yelled at me more than the DA. No motions was put in. We waited 6 months for notes of testimony from the preliminary hearing. Which my husband requested day one of him being hired. Gave him 6500 just for to make it seem like he got the best deal possible when he did no work. Would not recommend for a criminal attorney. He was selling my husband out to the DA the whole time in my opinion. He will take your money!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Ryan young
Alex was able to deliver the best possible outcome in my traffic case. Without going into details, I was facing a minimum of a six month license suspension; we were ultimately able to plea down to charges that did not result in any license suspension.
I couldn’t be any happier with the level of support and ultimate resolution I received relative to the cost of Alex’s services.
Should I require legal services in the future, Alex will be my first stop, and I would gladly recommend him to friends/family.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Micaela rivera
I wholeheartedly recommend Joel and Basil for legal support. They handled my case with exceptional care and professionalism, instilling in me a strong sense of confidence in my entitlement to a settlement. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had their assistance, as they managed to alleviate the stress of a challenging situation. Their extensive legal expertise left a lasting impression on me.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Amanda miller
I hired Alex for my husband drug case. Seemed like a decent guy at first. Talked a good game. 5,000 in his hand from day one! He became the worst attorney. He was very rude and arrogant. yelled at me more than the DA. No motions was put in. We waited 6 months for notes of testimony from the preliminary hearing. Which my husband requested day one of him being hired. Gave him 6500 just for to make it seem like he got the best deal possible when he did no work. Would not recommend for a criminal attorney. He was selling my husband out to the DA the whole time in my opinion. He will take your money!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Ryan young
Alex was able to deliver the best possible outcome in my traffic case. Without going into details, I was facing a minimum of a six month license suspension; we were ultimately able to plea down to charges that did not result in any license suspension.
I couldn’t be any happier with the level of support and ultimate resolution I received relative to the cost of Alex’s services.
Should I require legal services in the future, Alex will be my first stop, and I would gladly recommend him to friends/family.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Micaela rivera
I wholeheartedly recommend Joel and Basil for legal support. They handled my case with exceptional care and professionalism, instilling in me a strong sense of confidence in my entitlement to a settlement. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had their assistance, as they managed to alleviate the stress of a challenging situation. Their extensive legal expertise left a lasting impression on me.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Heather is a committed criminal defense attorney with extensive expertise in her field. She possesses a wide range of experience both in criminal defense and prosecution, utilizing her experience to secure optimal results for her clients' cases. Heather consistently demonstrated thoroughness, preparedness, and transparency, ensuring I understood all potential outcomes throughout the process. Heather achieved an outstanding outcome for both my cases. I highly recommend Heather and would use her again if needed!
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30 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Dedicated, hardworking, driven and worth every penny. Professor Heather Jo Mattes dives into your case and does everything in her power to fight for your rights. Professor Heather Jo Mattes is very well at conversing and negotiation for any circumstance. Highly recommend 100%. It is very rare to find someone who cares and will defend you the same way she would defend herself or her own family. Prof. Heather Jo Mattes would always be able to answer any of my questions that I would have. Prof. Heather Jo Mattes is the most talented and also conducts herself in the most professional way possible. 5 stars definitely !
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04 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I cannot say enough good things about working with Heather. My family engaged her for an emergency situation over Christmas week and she put her everything into our case. She was compassionate, thorough, straightforward and no-nonsense. She was responsive at all hours of the day and night - via email, phone and text. She went above and beyond for our family. I highly recommend her as a lawyer and professional. It is clear she is passionate about her craft and her clients. Her clients are lucky to have her. A++++.
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23 Jul, 2016 by Dewayne
Ryan did a great job for me. I had three duis He was able to get one reduced to a general impairment other one to 10 days and the last one got me work release so I was able to keep a very good job which I had for over 20 years. I would highly recommend Ryan.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I had hired Ryan back in 2009 to handle a bankruptcy and during a very difficult time he made it seem less stressful always answering questions, keeping me informed and going above and beyond, lord knows I had to be a difficult client as the 5 years it took to go through there were plenty of downs to get through and he was always there. I am a very picky person I have to feel comfortable and trust my legal representation and this encompasses Ryan. I will be using him again and recommending him for any need that arises
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01 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained Ryan Paddick. Personally I think that he is a very good lawyer. I stood In a very racist county, accused of a crime that didn't even take place. Every face in the courtroom was white, except for me and my family. Ryan had never experienced racism because he was white himself. But I saw him treated differently when he refused to play their little game. At first it was all business, Ryan read all of the facts of the case and the law in Pa. It seemed like a sure win based on the law. However we both would soon see that in some counties racism is still alive and strong. I saw other white lawyers giving Ryan dirty looks and treating him different. However he never wavered. In fact he cared. At one point outside of the courtroom he said said " I know this wouldn't be happening if you were white". I watched this man fight back tears giving his closing arguments to an all white courtroom,. The prosecutor had the nerve to accuse me of being the racist. So many things were being done underhandedly. Even part of the discovery had been withheld from other black Attorneys. Well all of a sudden when Ryan Paddick who is white shows up without the black lawyers they call him in the judges chamber and missing discovery shows up, but only to try to persuade him to stick with the good old boys and his own kind. Ryan left that chamber and shared what was discussed and the missing discovery with the other black attorneys. Why am I putting all of this on here? Because I believe based on my personal experience that Ryan M. Paddick is an outstanding lawyer. He could have turned a blind eye and act like this was all normal, but he spoke up and called it like it was. Even though I did not win in that courtroom, Ryan did not hesitate to come stand by my side to appeal the ruling in that racist courtroom. During the appeal it became known by the states key witness that coaching and misconduct on the part of the prosecution had taking place during the trial. So I'm speaking up fir Ryan Paddick because the loss wasn't on him. The good old boys had an axe to grind, but they are being exposed. Thanks Ryan for being not only a good lawyer, but a decent Human Being, and not being influenced by those evil ones who sought to destroy me and my family. (BUCKKKS COUNTY)
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
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02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
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02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mr. 100
A so call person name Joelle Shanesy said she is a partner with this law firm Lamb McErlane but she is not you can go onto the website and see for your , this not so honest person worked for three law firms in the year and now she is here at Lamb McErlane ready to steal more money but this time I did not follow her to this law firm.
She promise to call me back and she don't, kept telling me that she is going over my case and she didn't but bills me for time that she wasn't working on my case and I have all the proof to show it.
For 5 months Joelle didn't even get a discovery done for a simple divorce case but billed me $2600.00
So I will tell you , your friends and family to not hire her as your lawyer she will lie and if you lie you will cheat and if you cheat you will steal and she did .
Joelle Shanesy is the name and look here profile up on the company website and you will see she is not a partner
Ask her about her other two law firms she worked for, I don't have to lie
JC Law and Berman/Voss
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Samsung device
BEWARE. Corrupt to its core. If involved in custody they are very Father's Rights across the board and will not hesitate to use criminal action in their arsenal. VERY UNETHICAL.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cristina perone
Wonderful law firm, friendly office staff and trustworthy attorneys!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Christian milbrandt
Reached out 2 times, once in 2016 and again in 2023. Both for different cases. Both times I spoke to Mr. Kane over the phone and both times I had to follow up multiple times via email and phone calls. He never ended up calling back or following up for either case. Apparently my cases were not high priority enough or within his area of expertise. I will never know because he never followed up either time.
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17 May, 2018 by Kyle williams
24 Feb, 2018 by Andrew hutchins
Mr. Kane was extremely helpful and professional, he handled all my legal needs and went above and beyond my exceptions. I would highly recommend his services for any legal situation.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Cecil was unprepared and stammered through the whole hearing. Embarrassing. Things did not go my way as a result and irreparable damage has been done to my family.
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24 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Cecil laid out my options during an initial consultation. The divorce process was longer than expected but he answered questions I didn't understand, helped guide me in the right direction and followed through with what he said he was going to do.
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16 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Cecil represented me in a divorce. He was available to answer questions and responsive to my needs. Cecil was respectful of all parties involved and carrier himself well with the other attorney. I appreciated his attention to detail.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney McDonald for an appeal of a condo association matter. Despite holding herself out as an appeal attorney, she initiated the appeal in the wrong court! She also drafted the appeal at the last moment despite having months to do so. Needless to say, I was not successful in my appeal. When I decided to exhaust my remaining appeal opportunity to the Pa. Supreme Court, McDonald refused to represent me and gave me incorrect advice telling me that I had 90 days to initiate an appeal when in reality I had only 30 days.
While the appeal was going on, McDonald also prepared extensive litigation with numerous counts against 15 defendants involved in my condo association dispute. Every single count was dismissed by the court against each and every one of the 15 defendants before trial because each and every one of McDonald’s legal arguments was deemed to lack legal merit! Not one of the counts was even tried as each and every count was dismissed prior to trial because there was not enough legal substance to her arguments to warrant a trial! The judge stated that many of the issues had already been litigated in the prior case! And Attorney McDonald either knew or should have known this because she handled the appeal of the prior case! McDonald even filed counts against the condo association’s attorneys, which any legitimate attorney will tell you that you cannot do! McDonald lead me on a wild goose chase in this matter. I only found out there was no legal merit to all of the court filings that she prepared after the cases were dismissed through preliminary objections and motion for summary judgment! McDonald would not refund any of the thousands of dollars of legal fees that I paid to her. She then refused to participate in binding arbitration per the terms of our agreement which she herself drafted.
STAY FAR FAR AWAY FROM ATTORNEY MCDONALD!
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30 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I had a minor incident with the police and she Kept it to a small incident.
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14 Dec, 2011 by Cassie
Ms. McDonald is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. She was very helpful to me after my car accident and got me the settlement we both felt I deserved. She was more then willing to put in extra hours for research, and once she even drove 4 hours just to sit with me in court for 20 minutes. She kept me involved throughout the process of settling our lawsuit and responded to my emails the same day i sent them. She kept me appraised about what she was doing for me and also kept me informed about the other sides actions. She was very patient and willing to help me understand what all the legal stuff I didn't understand meant. Hiring Ms. McDonald was the best decision I made after my accident!
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15 Sep, 2019 by On top tree service 484-343-1113
29 Nov, 2017 by Berardi’s detailing
22 Jul, 2023 by Steven
I met with Sam about my files lost. He said if I could prove it , he said he would sue for millions. He told me to get affidavit from constable stating and I did and mailed it to him. Never returned my call. Then hired don bailey. Federal judge didn't seem to recognize attorney's we were suing and representing other side , represented federal judge in at least 2 prior lawsuits.
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10 May, 2023 by John
If not for Mr Samuel Stretton several years ago I wouldn’t even be here today to write this review. Now today 16 years later I am hiring him again to represent my sister and I in an upcoming pending matter. Trust, integrity, loyalty, honesty and expertise is just a few of the endless description words I can use to describe this attorney. He’s like a real life super hero out of a movie and works tirelessly to provide his clients with the best legal representation imaginable. In all my years I can honestly say I’ve never seen a trial lawyer as amazing as he is and I’ve never met an attorney that even comes close to matching his experience and expertise in a court of law. Every day I get to wake up and appreciate the time I have with my family because of this man Samuel C Stretton. He’s more than an attorney he’s like family. If you need to win your case and want the very best the state of Pennsylvania has to offer well look no further! Thankyou for everything Mr Stretton especially for saving my life.
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26 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Sam represented me while I was a student at WCU. He was very conscientious and wise in his consultations and at trial. I hope I never have to employ an attorney again, but if I do, it will be Sam Stretton.
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10 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Ok, first of all I do not recommend this lawyer at all. She is impossible to get a hold of and does not keep track go her cases. After being with her for years and her telling me that my case should come out in a month or two ...10 years later (still resolving the case) I come to find out she wrote a number wrong and never checked up on it for the last 5 years. By myself, I went to the immigration office for less than a year and found out there was many documents she never turned in that I had given to her. Enough of my case, point blank I do not recommend her.
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27 Dec, 2010 by Lyz
I met her a few years ago and I am so happy with her work. She is a great professional and amazing human being. She is still my lawyer and will be again if I ever need.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Steve everingham
They denied me a clear civil rights violation. But the civil rights department in DC accepted it. They are a waste of tax dollars clearly. Its clear they dont understand what the rule of law is.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Andrew green
I have not spent extended time in their office but I did drop off papers and they were nice
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08 Sep, 2023 by Theworld aroundme
Around 8 years ago I went to get diapers. Came home with a felony charge after having a spot clean record. I was hunting - came home- drank a few - found out I needed diapers ( I have 4 kids ) shouldn't have drove but i did and forgot about the firearms in the vehicle. Did what's called a power stand for a few guys in the parking lot and my tire popped. So a cop showed up I told him yea ik I messed up. Once I was in his car for DUI I remembered the firearms. I had a .22 for squirrel and a side arm for target practice before leaving the private property I was on. So I let the cop know. He tried to meet my family and give it to them but since they didn't answer he had to charge me to log them into evidence. He understood it was a mistake. DUI misdemeanor and carrying without a permit misdemeanor. But they put it together as a felony. Obviously I had an alcohol problem so a few years later I got a disability denial after fighting them for years. I have A.S. a bad hip,back, carpal tunnel and more. I got in an argument with my fiance because I was always sole income sometimes 2-3 jobs. She's never worked so I said something was breaking my fishtank and she called the cops. I sarcastically said tell them I hit you they'll get here sooner. Well when they got here they had it in they're head that I hit her but I didn't. Adventually he kept trying to be argumentive so I said a sarcastic question and they shrugged their shoulders and came at me. I kept saying if I'm under arrest let me know I'll go no problem instead he shot me with a Taser. Then hit me with tuns of charges that I didn't do. Now sober almost 5 years and found a job I could probably do part time they won't hire me. I can't even teach my kids to hunt. I always was a good citizen just had a lapse of alcohol judgement and will never make any mistakes again. When cops go by I get chills. Also I now know of proof audio and video of the arrest that will prove the cops lied. Problem is it has to be requested from state police within 60 days but I didn't know it was even there. I asked my public defender many times and he said there was none. So I called and asked how to get it recently. The state police said the right to know law was changed. I can't get it with open records or anything but it proves the cops lied and hit me with a bunch of charges. Recently I filled a return of property hearing and the judge sided with me for the Police to return my firearm but does not good now that I know I have a felony. This is infringement of my 2ed. I just want a part time job and to teach my kids to hunt. I called the D.A. because a lawyer suggested it maybe I would have some hope or help with this. Basically she told me to leave her alone. Thanks for supporting people who put you in office and pay your salary. Pathetic any government does this to they're people. I'm a good citizen just made mistakes and some I didn't even make.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Steve everingham
They denied me a clear civil rights violation. But the civil rights department in DC accepted it. They are a waste of tax dollars clearly. Its clear they dont understand what the rule of law is.
Read more
13 Feb, 2024 by Andrew green
I have not spent extended time in their office but I did drop off papers and they were nice
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08 Sep, 2023 by Theworld aroundme
Around 8 years ago I went to get diapers. Came home with a felony charge after having a spot clean record. I was hunting - came home- drank a few - found out I needed diapers ( I have 4 kids ) shouldn't have drove but i did and forgot about the firearms in the vehicle. Did what's called a power stand for a few guys in the parking lot and my tire popped. So a cop showed up I told him yea ik I messed up. Once I was in his car for DUI I remembered the firearms. I had a .22 for squirrel and a side arm for target practice before leaving the private property I was on. So I let the cop know. He tried to meet my family and give it to them but since they didn't answer he had to charge me to log them into evidence. He understood it was a mistake. DUI misdemeanor and carrying without a permit misdemeanor. But they put it together as a felony. Obviously I had an alcohol problem so a few years later I got a disability denial after fighting them for years. I have A.S. a bad hip,back, carpal tunnel and more. I got in an argument with my fiance because I was always sole income sometimes 2-3 jobs. She's never worked so I said something was breaking my fishtank and she called the cops. I sarcastically said tell them I hit you they'll get here sooner. Well when they got here they had it in they're head that I hit her but I didn't. Adventually he kept trying to be argumentive so I said a sarcastic question and they shrugged their shoulders and came at me. I kept saying if I'm under arrest let me know I'll go no problem instead he shot me with a Taser. Then hit me with tuns of charges that I didn't do. Now sober almost 5 years and found a job I could probably do part time they won't hire me. I can't even teach my kids to hunt. I always was a good citizen just had a lapse of alcohol judgement and will never make any mistakes again. When cops go by I get chills. Also I now know of proof audio and video of the arrest that will prove the cops lied. Problem is it has to be requested from state police within 60 days but I didn't know it was even there. I asked my public defender many times and he said there was none. So I called and asked how to get it recently. The state police said the right to know law was changed. I can't get it with open records or anything but it proves the cops lied and hit me with a bunch of charges. Recently I filled a return of property hearing and the judge sided with me for the Police to return my firearm but does not good now that I know I have a felony. This is infringement of my 2ed. I just want a part time job and to teach my kids to hunt. I called the D.A. because a lawyer suggested it maybe I would have some hope or help with this. Basically she told me to leave her alone. Thanks for supporting people who put you in office and pay your salary. Pathetic any government does this to they're people. I'm a good citizen just made mistakes and some I didn't even make.
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27 Nov, 2022 by Michael
This "kathleen Boyer" was my publice defender for a bail reduction hearing. SHE IS THE WORST! DO NOT USE! SHe said to not say anything in the courtroom then she proceeded to sell me out and work WITH the district attorney. You would be better off tossing your money in a fountain and making a wish, leaving a note for the tooth fairy or writing santa. I AM NOT KIDDING! SHE SHOULD NOT HAVE A LICENSE!
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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:
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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.
