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06 Feb, 2013 by Town of madison
I needed help for a misdemeanor case, Mr. Kowar was right there for me when he offered to take my case. His first response indicated that he understood what was said through my internet post. I was very concerned about my case and how it can affect my future jobs, Mr. Kowar was understanding and very patient, listening to my every questions, and elaborating his answers to make sure I understood the entire picture. Sometimes I ask him the same question multiple times, he nevertheless answers them thoroughly each time, never rushed. Mr. Kowar was a light house in a time of uncertainty, doubt, and disorientation for me. I highly recommend him.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Daniel yabandeh
Let me start off by first saying Edith was the most amazing paralegal I've dealt with. Its a shame Teresa was not able to perform to the same standard, let alone any standard I've seen an attorney hold themselves to.
The purchase of the property was smooth and simple however there was an issue being part of the property I was entitled to having access to I was not.
Teresa told me during the close "heres my card if you have any issues or need help in the future" well I ended up needing it and when I called Teresa to say I was unable to access my promised parking and that the sellers agent lied about the parking situation and I in fact did not have a spot, I was told "sorry we can't help with post close matters".
So much for giving me your card then, If you expect to close and are not worried about needing helpm after the close then you will be okay. But god forbid you need help post close you won't get it here.
Finding an attorney to remediate the situation was rough, they all asked the same question "what about your closing attorney?" to which I had to explain as I did above.
To put it plainly Edith was amazing, Teresa was not. I truly hope I am the only person this firm has caused this level of stress.
*** Edit #1 Post Response
Wow what a mess, so in their response it was detailed that I was instructed to contact the HOA and the City of Hartford. It was also detailed that I had purchased the space post close.
Point One - I was instructed to contact the city and the HOA which i did numerous times, they all told me the same thing. Speak to your closing attorney. They couldn't help with this as it was an issue of what was promised in the sale and they were not the responsible party.
Point Two - The space was not purchased after the closing, it was said to have been included in the sale of the property along with the unit, as show in the listing. According to the CT department of consumer protection they state that real estate listing websites such as zillow and redfin are protected "a real estate broker shall exersice diligence at all times in obtaining and presenting accurate information in the brokers advertising and representation to the public." They also state that "MLS forms are deemed reliable."
Point Three - The only reason i had pushed to make a claim against the brokerage in court rather than "contacting the HOA and City of Hartford" is not because I "appeard indifferant to the suggestions" its because I tried them. They know I did because I told them of the attempts before contacting them again to ask about filling a claim. If that wasn't communicated internally to the attorneys then thats not my fault, however I will not let this office misconstrue what actually happened.
Point Four - In regards to "I'm Not particularly suprised Mr. Yabandeh has had a "rough time finding an attorney to bring his claim for misrepresentation" the reason being not because they didn't think it was an unviable claim. Reason being as discussed with one attorney "we have had issues with cleaning up past attorneys dirty work before and it never ends well, sorry."
I truly hope this office uses this not only as a learning experiance for how to handle customer dissatisfaction but also in the field of being more dilligent in responding in a frankly repugnant manner rather than understanding the situation was poorly handled on their end.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Raymond hayes
Attorney Paul Small just completed all of my estate planning and medical documents. Paul was very helpful in answering all of my questions regarding the complexities of these documents, and I would recommend his services.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Prashant chauhan
Great people, used them for closing of my first house. Very professional, proactive and punctual. Teresa and Edith help me on every step of this process.
I’m literally writing this review after one year of purchase. Thank you!
Read more
07 Jul, 2021 by Leslie rand
I have been a realtor for 22 years and have never had an experience with a law office like the one my client and I went through with this firm. They do not answer their phone their voicemails or their emails. Needless to say we did not close on time. This was unprofessional and unacceptable. I do not recommend this law firm for any real estate transaction you may have as a realtor or buyer or seller.
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31 Jan, 2021 by Vickie vail
Attorney Andrew Kearns is the best
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29 Sep, 2020 by John accetura
01 Jul, 2024 by Lemuel photography (usamaftw)
28 Apr, 2024 by Janet cemanes
Attty. Collins is an expert in Immigration Law. He made himself available and followed through to ensure that our case was handled expeditiously yielding the result that we were hoping for.
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24 Nov, 2023 by R x
23 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Am not sure how this person even qualifies as a lawyer. I could do better as a layperson. He is rude , obnoxious and uses every low down scumbag tactic you could imagine while inflating your bills.
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08 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
The guy is a joke. Does the absolute bare minimum to collect a check. Not willing to do any leg work, something a good attorney would do for you, but will certainly charge you for his time when discussing YOUR findings. I feel like I’m an attorney at this point since I’ve had to do more for my case then he has. Having simple requests granted in court by a judge is like pulling teeth and that’s if you can even get him to try. I was under the impression that when you hire an attorney you have someone in your corner willing to fight for you, instead I feel as though I’m fighting this battle alone against their attorney and my own. I now am forced to find another attorney half way through my case to try to save as much as I can, but not without spending plenty of money beforehand on this “lawyer”. Anyone considering him may want to get several other opinions before hiring. He talks a good game when you originally speak to him, but soon as you give him a retainer and has to do some work, watch your case fall apart. Very disappointed with this choice, so many better out there for the same money.
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24 Apr, 2017 by Katy
I worked with Atty. Toney Pignatiello and Eva at the Upton Law Firm.
Atty. Pignatiello handled a car accident lawsuit where myself and infant daughter were in the care and were rear ended at a stop sign. We had hired a previous attorney had completely neglected our case, phone calls and urgent deadlines. Atty. Pignatiello took an urgent appointment with me, contacted previous attorney, made a smooth transition for us and guided me through finalizing the lawsuit. Eva's detailed work and compassionate manner helped us put an end to a two year long ordeal, and I felt understood, respected, and cared for the entire process with Upton Law Firm. I love the online file access so that I could follow case progress. Atty. Pignatiello advocated for us with both previous neglectful attorney and the other side of the case to ensure we were able to settle and that the settlement we received covered all medical bills and that we were taken care of.
The Upton Law firm is now the firm we use for any legal need. I highly recommend Upton Law Firm to anyone seeking legal guidance and expertise.
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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.
