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06 Aug, 2024 by Yoli's
I highly recommend Robert holubec , he have alot of experience and is honest. God bless you Robert holubec.
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06 Mar, 2020 by Patricia
Of all the attorneys I saw that day Robert Holubec was the only one that didn’t make any promises and was upfront and honest with me about my case. The thing that got me to hire him was that he said that he was going to do the best work that he could and that he has never lost a case and to me that was more than enough. And to make the story short everything he told me that was gonna happen in this case happened there was never Any sweet live or knew that I just wanted to hear he was just honest and sincere all the way through this case I can’t Thank him enough for what he did and to be serious I don’t think I could’ve had this case one without him.
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28 Oct, 2019 by La chirris d chihuahua
15 Oct, 2021 by Beth
I was very impressed with my experience at Weber Law. I was looking for an attorney to help me with my estate planning. Mr. Weber was very professional and communicated everything about estate planning, reviewing all options and giving me the best advice. His secretary was also very kind and gracious, answering any questions I had about appointments and expectations. Thank you for your exceptional service and professionalism. I would recommend Weber Law to anyone seeking estate planning.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Dennis
We needed some legal work done on short notice. I contacted the Weber Law Office and explained our situation. They said they could get the work done by the time we needed it. we met with them and gave them the details of what we needed. they were able to get the work done before we needed it. We were very pleased with them and the work they did for us.
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29 Mar, 2019 by Andrea
Wow!! I am amazed at what Weber Law Office did for me. First, April. Amazing. I needed help, right away for my son(traffic). I called Weber law because of the ratings I saw online. April immediately assisted me during this emotional time and related. I work in customer, so to engage, and make me feel welcomed is not something that can be easily done. It wasn't transnational, all of my interactions with April and Mr. Weber were extremely memorable. That's what you need when you're going through a tough time. You want to know that you can trust and depend on the lawyer that you're hiring. I called on a Wednesday morning, probably when they first opened. By the afternoon, I had been in office, retained Mr. Weber, and had a court date for the next day. Literally Mr. Weber was able to do a walk in docket, and have the issue taken care of. Afterwards, he visited with me, my son, and mom, and we had a conversation about travel or something.
It's been a little over 2 weeks since I first called Weber law. The follow up has been phenomenal, both email and phone. If you're looking for a lawyer who will actually LISTEN to you, and make sure that you understand the process, with amazing follow through, Weber Law is what I who I would choose. They deserve more stars than 5! Thank you!!!!!!
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28 Dec, 2024 by Robin carmichael
Incredibly friendly and helpful! Andrew is very honest and thorough with your case. We needed help with my deceased father’s estate and Andrew gave us options and was not pushy for us to make a decision. We didn’t feel uncomfortable to make a choice one way or another.
We also really appreciated his 15 minute free consultation call! His secretary sent out a questionnaire beforehand so the call could be focused on our pressing questions.
My husband and I highly recommend him!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Daniel hester
Process of getting my estate planning completed by Andrew Rowe took away the apprehension I had by being thorough during the first meeting. The electronic version was easy to navigate. All of my questions were answered to my satisfaction. It was a pleasant experience.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Howard hackney
Andrew Rowe did a review of 8 year old estate plan. I had done nothing to implement it. He gave me all the documents and directions I need to finish the estate plan. I would trust Andrew on any platform, and he treats us like family.
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14 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I had an ex who was less than pleased that I had moved on. He made multiple calls to DCF with lies and fabrications. As soon as I was contacted by someone at DCF, I called Mr. Mitchell's office and got an appointment right away. He took my case and within 2 weeks I had full custody of my children. I now tell all of my friends about Mr. MItchell for any of their legal needs.
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08 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I had an ex that kept threatening to take my kids from me because she would get mad at me. She also has a few issues she needs to get right with herself. As a dad in Kansas you always hear how it is impossible to gain custody of your kids over their mom. Mr. Mitchell got me custody of my girls and their mom has to be supervised around them until she can get herself right.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Tiffini hodges
Outstanding firm. EVERYONE is so kind and helpful, not to mention very knowledgeable. Not once did I feel alone or uninformed. They truly are with you 100% and go the extra mile. Thank you!!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Daniel anderson
They are super friendly and very helpful. They were always there to answer my questions and explain everything to me. They made everything as easy as possible!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Joseph saenz
WOULDN'T RECOMMEND. Not happy nor satisfied with how my case was handled, wasn't taken seriously. I received mediocre level of expertise, felt taken advantaged by hiring this firm for its knowledge. In which after I paid it seemed it was actually lacking that expertise. Paid for a level of superiority you think, but instead recieved none of it
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20 Dec, 2024 by Tiffini hodges
Outstanding firm. EVERYONE is so kind and helpful, not to mention very knowledgeable. Not once did I feel alone or uninformed. They truly are with you 100% and go the extra mile. Thank you!!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Daniel anderson
They are super friendly and very helpful. They were always there to answer my questions and explain everything to me. They made everything as easy as possible!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Joseph saenz
WOULDN'T RECOMMEND. Not happy nor satisfied with how my case was handled, wasn't taken seriously. I received mediocre level of expertise, felt taken advantaged by hiring this firm for its knowledge. In which after I paid it seemed it was actually lacking that expertise. Paid for a level of superiority you think, but instead recieved none of it
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15 Sep, 2021 by Valerie salmon
04 May, 2018 by Ralph
This young man is VERY personable, dedicated to his clients and reasonable in cost. He saved me from having a moving violation which would drive up my insurance costs, spent the time to consult me on other legal matters but was honest enough to refer me to another attorney who specialized in what I needed. Mr. Garcia took time to consult and refer without charge. Would definitely and "first" contact him if ever I need legal advice again.
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28 May, 2019 by Rick
I watched a week long second-degree murder trial wherein Counselor Pittman defended his client zealously, vigorously and methodically. It was even more impressive when the jury, in essence, acquitted the defendant, as the verdict came back deadlocked. If I ever commit another felony and get charged with the same, I guarantee you that Counselor Pittman is who I want representing me when I have my day in court.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Vince redinger
He worked very hard and made sure we understood every thing we were looking at and reading
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11 Oct, 2023 by Ryan stringfellow
I contacted Lane Palmateer to help with a debt situation that I let go too long. He helped me tremendously over the phone by giving me options going forward. Even though he was very busy, he gave me the utmost service to help me find the right lawyer for my case. I highly recommend Lane as he is compassionate to the needs of his clients. Thank you Lane. I appreciate your time and help in this matter.
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11 Jun, 2023 by Dream makers llc
Always appreciate the help with legal help and advice on the homes!! Thanks
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30 Apr, 2019 by Cindy skoda
I had a very difficult case involving divorce, full custody of both my boys and a move halfway across country. The odds were against me. David Hawley was the 3rd atty I called and by far the best. He was confident, honest and made me feel like I knew him my whole life. In 6 months time we accomplished all my goals! I have full custody of my sons, live in the PNW again, where my family is, and (if my bonehead ex can keep a job) a fair amt of child support. He was always responsive timely, aggressive when needed, knowledgeable and helped guide me to the right decisions. Highly recommend David Hawley for your family law needs!
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08 Nov, 2022 by Spencer d. hoff
16 Oct, 2021 by Haley jones
11 Apr, 2019 by Jim yockey
Fantastic
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14 Dec, 2024 by Robert sawyer
This firm of lawyers is excellent. They do an incredible job for the fees they charge. I am absolutely satisfied with the way my DWI turned out and overjoyed with the way my administrative hearing was handled. Thank You
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13 Dec, 2024 by John holmes
This man is a loser as I told him when I walked out and had to hire someone else. Unanswered emails, phone calls, then had to stop by his office daily until I found him there without a locked door and lights out during normal business hours. He cost me 9 months of my life and thousands of dollars. He offered a refund due to his mistakes
and then renigged when I hired other council. Beware!!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Zaylee green (zgreen)
Very professional and informed me of what was needed and when, always got answers back in a timely manner. If ever I need legal services again, this will be my first stop.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Robert sawyer
This firm of lawyers is excellent. They do an incredible job for the fees they charge. I am absolutely satisfied with the way my DWI turned out and overjoyed with the way my administrative hearing was handled. Thank You
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13 Dec, 2024 by John holmes
This man is a loser as I told him when I walked out and had to hire someone else. Unanswered emails, phone calls, then had to stop by his office daily until I found him there without a locked door and lights out during normal business hours. He cost me 9 months of my life and thousands of dollars. He offered a refund due to his mistakes
and then renigged when I hired other council. Beware!!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Zaylee green (zgreen)
Very professional and informed me of what was needed and when, always got answers back in a timely manner. If ever I need legal services again, this will be my first stop.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Stuckinoz1216 (stuckinoz1216)
I've been a client of Randall Price for over 20 yrs now and he's always gotten satisfactory results in my cases. I still have him as my lawyer on my Workman's Compensation case with a school. He put a lot of hours into this case!! It was a super difficult case. He went to bat for me then and is still going to bat for me against the Work Comp insurance company's shenanigan's. He will always have your back as your lawyer too!! He's a real nice guy, always asking how I'm doing when I call if I have a question or problem. I'm truly blessed to have found him !
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24 Jun, 2024 by Rick loveall
30 May, 2024 by Rachel
Steve Ariagno was absolutely the best to work with. If you are looking for someone that will fight for you, he's hands down the one to use. Will be recommending him to everyone who needs a good attorney.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Christian bowen
I had a good time working with them and had great results.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Connie larcom
Your assistants are great and easy to work with.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Stephanie singer
A reliable option for those seeking experienced legal guidance in the Wichita area.
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22 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Hire Gregory Bernhardt, he is awesome!!!! Straight forward business, he was awesome with my unemployment case, and family probate estate. He is professional, dependable, easy to talk to, best lawyer in wichita, KS hands down.
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14 Jul, 2014 by Julian
I dont know what this other guys talking about but I had her an she was great to me.Came to the jail often got two class one felonies dropped to one class 7 plus she took me serious listened and was sympathetic to my situation given I have two daughters bottem line I was looking at more then 45 years and 30 months later im a free FREE man plus if your in jail she is absolutely BEAUTIFUL to look at an talk too.
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22 Oct, 2020 by Jessica
This was my first time using this service, and I will FOREVER be grateful for Ms. Clark, she is an amazing lawyer who gets back to you each time in an timely manner. I am sad to see her leave KSL but I wish her the best at her next firm!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Yoli's
I highly recommend Robert holubec , he have alot of experience and is honest. God bless you Robert holubec.
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28 Oct, 2019 by La chirris d chihuahua
15 Jun, 2017 by Alan evans
Best recovery Attorney in Wichita
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14 Dec, 2024 by Robert sawyer
This firm of lawyers is excellent. They do an incredible job for the fees they charge. I am absolutely satisfied with the way my DWI turned out and overjoyed with the way my administrative hearing was handled. Thank You
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13 Dec, 2024 by John holmes
This man is a loser as I told him when I walked out and had to hire someone else. Unanswered emails, phone calls, then had to stop by his office daily until I found him there without a locked door and lights out during normal business hours. He cost me 9 months of my life and thousands of dollars. He offered a refund due to his mistakes
and then renigged when I hired other council. Beware!!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Zaylee green (zgreen)
Very professional and informed me of what was needed and when, always got answers back in a timely manner. If ever I need legal services again, this will be my first stop.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Jamie
I hired Chris Randle because of his in-depth knowledge of military divorce law. He didn’t disappoint! He is professional and an absolutely genius litigator. I highly recommend him.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Nataliah bannon
Idk the norm but they charge between 200 and 400 dollars just to have one conversation. I had no idea it would be like this running a local nonprofit and I am just incredibly disappointed.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Ethan tudela
Chris Finney of Bond Legal Group was incredibly helpful in handling my car accident case. From the moment I contacted him, he demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a deep understanding of personal injury law. He carefully explained the legal process and guided me through each step, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable with every decision. Chris was also highly responsive, always available to answer my questions and provide updates on the case. His negotiation skills were top-notch, and he worked tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covered my medical expenses and damages. I felt genuinely supported throughout the entire process, and I highly recommend Chris Finney for anyone in need of a skilled car accident attorney.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Nataliah bannon
Idk the norm but they charge between 200 and 400 dollars just to have one conversation. I had no idea it would be like this running a local nonprofit and I am just incredibly disappointed.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Ethan tudela
Chris Finney of Bond Legal Group was incredibly helpful in handling my car accident case. From the moment I contacted him, he demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a deep understanding of personal injury law. He carefully explained the legal process and guided me through each step, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable with every decision. Chris was also highly responsive, always available to answer my questions and provide updates on the case. His negotiation skills were top-notch, and he worked tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covered my medical expenses and damages. I felt genuinely supported throughout the entire process, and I highly recommend Chris Finney for anyone in need of a skilled car accident attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Maddy sondinger
Bailey acted like I was an inconvenience to her. She didn't show up on a court date. In the end she didn't do anything for me. She was a waste of money.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Sophia muhwanga
I would highly recommend Mr. Nguyen and his team 100% for any legal case. He stood to be the most experienced, knowledgeable, and professional lawyer one can have. His positive attitude, honesty, and compassion made me trust him. He represented and won my case within 6 months. Communication with him and Carolina was fast and efficient. Most importantly, his charges are affordable and he will get the job done. I thank God that He directed me to this lawyer.
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14 Oct, 2024 by James meyerhoffer-kubalik
My opinion of him has changed drastically. He gave me personal opinions not professional ones as he expressed the government is trying to make money off of filing fees. That is an erroneous and baseless assertion. He informed me he would not represent me because I had a bad opinion of lawyers based on my experiences with corporate lawyers, and he told me to have a therapist fabricate a story. The later is of course against a therapists code of ethics and their documentation has to hold up in court. I left his office $150 lighter and received no legal advice. ChatGPT could give me better legal advice. He just told me I had to file the paperwork, no shit. $150 for 30 minutes and the obvious advice. Even the first time I met him he told me the current generation of Vietnamese woman were lazy and I should be careful about my wife. Loose opinions, especially those personal in nature, are unwarranted and unprofessional. I had to find a completely different lawyer to handle the case. Một trò đùa chết tiệt.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas wanyonyi
Alec Nguyen has been my immigration attorney for many years and he is still my future attorney should I have any issues needing legal counsel. He successfully handled my immigration cases and I have referred many people to him and all of them have been successfully helped.Personally, I rate him as the best attorney and would recommend him to anyone needing the best legal services in town.Also Alec has the best assistant Carolina.She makes sure that clients are updated regarding the status of their cases.Contacting their office is easy and responses are always prompt.Thank you Alec and may God continue Blessing the works of your hands.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Nataliah bannon
Idk the norm but they charge between 200 and 400 dollars just to have one conversation. I had no idea it would be like this running a local nonprofit and I am just incredibly disappointed.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Ethan tudela
Chris Finney of Bond Legal Group was incredibly helpful in handling my car accident case. From the moment I contacted him, he demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a deep understanding of personal injury law. He carefully explained the legal process and guided me through each step, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable with every decision. Chris was also highly responsive, always available to answer my questions and provide updates on the case. His negotiation skills were top-notch, and he worked tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covered my medical expenses and damages. I felt genuinely supported throughout the entire process, and I highly recommend Chris Finney for anyone in need of a skilled car accident attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Maddy sondinger
Bailey acted like I was an inconvenience to her. She didn't show up on a court date. In the end she didn't do anything for me. She was a waste of money.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Nataliah bannon
Idk the norm but they charge between 200 and 400 dollars just to have one conversation. I had no idea it would be like this running a local nonprofit and I am just incredibly disappointed.
Read more
12 Oct, 2024 by Ethan tudela
Chris Finney of Bond Legal Group was incredibly helpful in handling my car accident case. From the moment I contacted him, he demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a deep understanding of personal injury law. He carefully explained the legal process and guided me through each step, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable with every decision. Chris was also highly responsive, always available to answer my questions and provide updates on the case. His negotiation skills were top-notch, and he worked tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covered my medical expenses and damages. I felt genuinely supported throughout the entire process, and I highly recommend Chris Finney for anyone in need of a skilled car accident attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Maddy sondinger
Bailey acted like I was an inconvenience to her. She didn't show up on a court date. In the end she didn't do anything for me. She was a waste of money.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Chris m
Anna and Kelly worked hard to help my wife and I on our case. Great communication through it all. Was brutally honest and amazing all around. Highly recommend
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19 Nov, 2024 by Krystal morales
Kelly and Anna are amazing. Won our case. Honest and hard working women. Truly cared. Supportive through the whole way. Highly recommend them.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Juliana phillips
I will always be eternally grateful for Kelly and the work she did for me and my family. If you want attorneys that will champion you until the end, look no further!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Robert sawyer
This firm of lawyers is excellent. They do an incredible job for the fees they charge. I am absolutely satisfied with the way my DWI turned out and overjoyed with the way my administrative hearing was handled. Thank You
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13 Dec, 2024 by John holmes
This man is a loser as I told him when I walked out and had to hire someone else. Unanswered emails, phone calls, then had to stop by his office daily until I found him there without a locked door and lights out during normal business hours. He cost me 9 months of my life and thousands of dollars. He offered a refund due to his mistakes
and then renigged when I hired other council. Beware!!!
Read more
23 Nov, 2024 by Zaylee green (zgreen)
Very professional and informed me of what was needed and when, always got answers back in a timely manner. If ever I need legal services again, this will be my first stop.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Nataliah bannon
Idk the norm but they charge between 200 and 400 dollars just to have one conversation. I had no idea it would be like this running a local nonprofit and I am just incredibly disappointed.
Read more
12 Oct, 2024 by Ethan tudela
Chris Finney of Bond Legal Group was incredibly helpful in handling my car accident case. From the moment I contacted him, he demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a deep understanding of personal injury law. He carefully explained the legal process and guided me through each step, ensuring I was well-informed and comfortable with every decision. Chris was also highly responsive, always available to answer my questions and provide updates on the case. His negotiation skills were top-notch, and he worked tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covered my medical expenses and damages. I felt genuinely supported throughout the entire process, and I highly recommend Chris Finney for anyone in need of a skilled car accident attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Maddy sondinger
Bailey acted like I was an inconvenience to her. She didn't show up on a court date. In the end she didn't do anything for me. She was a waste of money.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Danny
I've paid Mr. Poor over $1800 .
Gave him and his office a $800 retainer before I went into prison for absolutely ludicrous charges that he couldn't get me off of.
During the 19 mts. Of my incarceration, I tried to call him several times for help, his office, and his cell phone. Never an answer. I desperately needed my family's contact information. I was totally alone in that miserable place. Without anyone to speak to. I was stabbed three times and jumped several times. It was brutal. My representative was not totally to blame if I was not addicted to substance, I could have represented myself with no lawyer and beat the ridiculous charges that Newton Ks threw against the wall, instead of "hope", the indeed stuck..
Towards the end of my ridiculous sentences. I was finally able to get in contact with my beloved Sister in-law, I had her reach out to this office, and these unprofessional people told her that Mr. Scott Poor was a court appointed attorney for a or one case of mine in 2023!
I went into this office 200 w Douglas suite 600. Begging for help! I paid 1800 of my đź’° to get justice for the ridiculous charges that Harvey County has convicted me! He was "NEVER " appointed by the courts!
1800 is nothing to these guys, but I'm on total Disability for a broken neck. That is a month of wages for me.
I've been trying to reach the office trying to get a refund, but they won't return my call.
Save your energy, and you're hard-earned money.. nothing but a totally wasted time.. in my case.... 2 years in prison!!! Go down the road and obtain a better attorney. I want my money back.
Justice is a Virtue.. anything other than this should be considered a crime.
Daniel Philip Hogan....God bless
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13 Sep, 2024 by Kyle beavers
I dealt with Rebecca with most of my experience and people don't understand that "your lawyer" has a life to. We both suffered from tragic loses at the time and her and her team did an outstanding job. I would recommend them every time!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Mark
My wife decided to divorce me after 35 years of marriage. I was very concerned about what this would do to my financial future, and especially being late in my career, my future retirement. I had heard many horror stories about how the laws in Kansas favor the female in a divorce. Only having very limited experience with lawyers, I decided to treat my lawyer selection like an interview process. I scheduled meetings with 2 lawyers to get started. Prior to my meeting with the lawyers, I reviewed all of my divorce papers in great detail. I identified several significant concerns with the terms that my ex’s legal counsel created. My first lawyer meeting was with Desiree Smith.
When I met with Desiree, my first question was about how she was going to represent me. Was I just a lost cause, because I was a male, or was she going to fight for everything she could get for me to protect my future retirement? She reassured me that she was working for me, and she would be doing everything she could for me. She asked me several general questions to understand our financial situation, and then laid out the typical scenarios that could happen in my situation. That immediately set me at ease, knowing that my financial future was not ruined, and that I had a path forward. She then reviewed the terms in the divorce papers. Within only 3-4 minutes of review, and without my assistance, she identified every concern I had about their terms, and a couple more that I hadn’t noticed. At that point, I knew I had found the right person to represent me, and I didn't need to meet with the next lawyer.
Throughout the rest of the divorce process, Desiree’s experience and knowledge showed in every conversation we had. She could quickly discuss detail, easily recall detail from previous meetings, easily answer questions, and was able to help me think through strategies for moving forward. Every meeting I had with her was very productive.
In the end, Desiree helped get a great settlement for me, and we did it without going to court. I got a far better settlement than I ever thought possible in the beginning, and I feel like I probably got a better settlement that most divorced men. Desiree was a very big part of making that happen. I can’t say enough about her knowledge, and how she could explain legal concepts in ways easy for me to understand. Desiree was very easy to work with. I would highly recommend Desiree to help anyone through their family legal needs!
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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:
-
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.
