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06 Nov, 2024 by Eric fields
Mr Gore and His Daughter. I could not have picked better representation !!!!! Oh the staff amazing as well OUTSTANDING
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02 Oct, 2024 by Whitney groeneveld
I am a recent college graduate, got a speeding ticket visiting my parents in NC, have out of state plates. Only option the officer presented me with was court. I trusted these good reviews and am now here to stand by them. They were affordable, had great communication (Thanks Zilla), I actually learned a lot in the driving course they suggested I take, and my charges were dropped stress-free.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Wesley portner
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04 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I needed legal help asap my father had passed away and I missed my court date for a speeding ticket witch turned into a FTA then turned into my licenses being suspended long story short a very reasonable fee for there service and assistance I didnt not have to appear in court i maintained my full time job and they handled everything in a very fast timely manner 5 starts all the way cant go wrong here
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10 Jan, 2020 by Greg
Attorney William Gore and his assistant Zilla Taylor quickly and efficiently handled my speeding ticket. The response to my inquiry was prompt and thorough. After providing the initial information they handled everything and had the charge changed to improper equipment. I would ask for his assistance again if I had a need in Columbus County.
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01 Oct, 2019 by Steve
Mr. Gore represented my 18 year old daughter on reckless driving and speeding citations (90 in a 70 MPH zone). We live out of state but Mr. Gore and his paralegal Zilla were absolutely a pleasure to work with. They were patient and prompt in their responses to my many questions. Mr. Gore was even able to appear for my daughter as this was a mandatory court appearance citation. In the end, Mr. Gore was able to get the reckless driving citation dismissed and the speeding reduced to improper equipment. I would highly recommend Mr. Gore to anyone needing a defense or traffic citation attorney in the NC area.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Wayntrell brown
On March 24 2021 Mrs. Miller was able to beat a dwi for me where I blew a .12. Very professional argument. Had previous cases on hand to defend her argument. Would definitely recommend her for any legal matter. Will always be my first choice if anything unfortunate happens in the future and if I had to put my name on the line for a reference she would be the only lawyer I could honestly vouch for. I’ve used quite a few in my life and they ranged from subpar to decent but she was absolutely amazing. Superb representation!
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26 Nov, 2020 by Christian
In the end I was completely satisfied with Mrs. Santana Miller and the work she done for me.
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02 Oct, 2020 by April
Santana and her office personnel were communicative, professional, and followed through with our plan. I highly recommend!
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15 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney. Very happy with my experience with Mr. Hill and his office.
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15 Sep, 2020 by Amanda
Excellent service and very professional. Has handled many legal matters in such a expediate manner.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Eric fields
Mr Gore and His Daughter. I could not have picked better representation !!!!! Oh the staff amazing as well OUTSTANDING
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Whitney groeneveld
I am a recent college graduate, got a speeding ticket visiting my parents in NC, have out of state plates. Only option the officer presented me with was court. I trusted these good reviews and am now here to stand by them. They were affordable, had great communication (Thanks Zilla), I actually learned a lot in the driving course they suggested I take, and my charges were dropped stress-free.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Wesley portner
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09 Oct, 2023 by Annie “big whp” haynes
Fair pricing
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15 Jun, 2022 by Emma romero
This attorney received the money, but never help his client. He did not do a single thing for my nephew. Hi. Him self told .y nephew that his case was lost without Taking the case in court. Oscar does not returned phone calls to answered questions. He is ne er I. His office when you need him. He refuses to returned the money to my nephew. He takes Spanish speaking cases and no one speaks Spanish and his office.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Sharon simmons
Attorney Oscar M. Blanks III and his team are very thorough and professional individuals. I will definitely refer to all my family and friends. Thank you for ALL that you do for the people of the surrounding counties!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

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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