Best Criminal Defense lawyers in Wisconsin

1,444 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Wisconsin

>1.4k

experienced lawyers

Karie J. Cattanach

215 S Hamilton St Rm 1000, Madison, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.6/5

1.6

11 Reviews

26 Sep, 2024 by Julie anne (julie)

Please shut down the horrible animal testing beagles Ridglan Farms in Dane County. It has been years that exposure and violations this place has exhibitted, those poor animals are trapped in a life of hell. I will not travel out to your area because it is a disgrace. The district attorney is doing absolutely nothing!!!!! The Tax payers there in that county are very much against it. Better methods of research are out there. Your office never answers the phone so I am leaving this review It is 2024 now. Shut it down please!!!!!!.

19 Aug, 2024 by Alex barbian

05 Apr, 2024 by Audrey lombardi

Career criminal who assaulted my disabled sister, and prior to her, assaulted another disabled person, was released on bond by Free the 350. Although we were on a notification list, we "slipped through the cracks" and were NEVER notified. The victim's advocate replied "sorry". There was no accountability or explanation. We could not have direct contact with the DA (but the criminal could have direct access to his defender). We had to go through the victim's advocate on all communication. This system of injustice benefits the offender, not the victim. Next time, this villain will kill someone.

Brian L. Mares

107 Church Avenue, Oshkosh, WI

Criminal Defense Family Law Personal Injury +3

1.5/5

1.5

7 Reviews

09 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous

If I could have given zero stars I would have. This man wasted months of my time. All talk and no action. Never replies to emails or returns phone calls. Stay away!

05 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous

The other reviews are very accurate except the five star one, which was probably made up. My divorce took four years and cost me over $50k. Brian assured me that my ex would be responsible for all attorney fees. When it came time for payment, he told me I’d just have to “eat it”. When I asked him for itemized billing statements he refused to provide them, and filed a motion against me for payment. He was never prepared, and rarely listened to me, or returned my calls. I feel sorry for his assistant, because she has to do most of his work. Brian ended up signing the final court order without my permission. I could go on and on, but I think you get the point. He just doesn’t care! Stay away from him if you know what’s good for you!

15 Jan, 2018 by Joan

1-2018 Brian Mares is a horrible attorney: 1.) Never prepared when we went to court hearings, 2.) Rarely returner my phone calls but always accessible when payments were taken from me. 3.) I always had to do the “homework” like keeping track of all pertinent information involving my case. 4.) Dragged my court case out many months longer than what it should have taken! Highly reccemmend you look elsewhere if you need a competent attorney.

Debra V. O'Rourke

515 Oak St, Baraboo, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.3/5

1.3

3 Reviews

01 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous

This woman hasn't helped with my case what so ever, she has ignored me for other clients and always says shes in the office when i call but is never there, and she never calls back. she takes things personally and she needs to learn how to do her job. she is unprofessional and is not worth the hassle. she is probably not even worried about our case what so ever. And is going to let whatever happen, happen. A pety case is going to turn into a jail time because she doesn't know how to communicate or even what she is doing. I DO NOT RECOMMEND.

09 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous

Did not answer most of my questions. She was highly detached and impersonal in her approach. Also she took nearly everything I said as some sort of personal attack; she was highly defensive, and very unfriendly. Once, ten minutes before court she asked me to wait for her in a commons are so we could review the details of my case. I waited over an hour before I went into the courtroom to find only judge and bailiff still present and explained why I missed my appearance. It was greatly inconvenient for me. O'Rourke did not apologize or provide me with any explanation. I'm not saying she was a bad lawyer, she just seemed to be swamped with so many cases that she just treated me like a number, not a person. She did seem very intelligent and knowledgeable, but also quite selfish and immature.

06 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous

Being stuck with a public defender due to income we were given ms. O'rourk. I asked her to talk with us prior to 5 minutes before the court dates. She replied with the fact that she was on vacation for 3 days. Very knowledgable. Does not care about your personal interests or the outcome of the case. Easily defensive.

Tawny R. Brooks

Po Box 170074, Milwaukee, WI

Criminal Defense Litigation Personal Injury +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

4 Reviews

12 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous

I couldn't agree more with all the other reviews she has done enough damage to children so,and she needs to be removed from the courts and her law association because ,she is not there to do the right thing she is selfish.

19 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous

By far the worst attorney to represent you. She does not understand the law, has no court decorum and has no conscience. She must have gotten her law degree out of a cracker jack box. She was court-appointed to represent in a child custody case and didn’t even know the child’s name months into the case. Gave legal advice that was complete opposite of 3 other more experienced attorneys, one who said her advice is borderline criminal. Completely incompetent attorney. She should be investigated by the WI STATE BAR! Do not recommend, stay far away.

27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous

Attorney Brooks was appointed as my representation in children's court and provided the worst representation possible. She is extremely unprofessional and will refuse to comply with any requests you make. She could not even remember my children's names or details of the case. She is only there to get paid by the state and won't even attempt to win your case. I will be filling an investigation against her with the office of lawyer regulation for several acts of misconduct. Any clients who get her appointed as there council should refuse her and ask for another attorney unless you want to loose your case and your children. She had no interest in my case and went against everything I requested and did irreparable damage to my case. She is the worst Attorney and hopefully this invitation will result in her getting disbarred it would save a lot of families from getting destroyed and save countless children from being permanently damaged by the system.

Leonard D. Kachinsky

832 Neff Ct, Neenah, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

4 Reviews

07 Jan, 2016 by Jeff

Run away don't even think about this guy. He should not be allowed to practice law period. I had him for an OWI trial. The Judge had to help him out several times, and he still didn't get where the judge was leading. Incompetent at best. This guy will get you prison time on a parking ticket.

06 Jan, 2016 by Seth

During the first 4 hours, I repeatedly told him there is no way that I am guilty. It was clear that he was working with the prosecutor's office and kept telling me that I should plead guilty. He said that if I did, it would be no big deal and I would be able to live my life to the fullest. Minimally. I would be able to go home that day to finish my homework. In disbelief, I asked him exactly how that could be... Well, he told me to practice the following lines which he had previously written..... It was a confession. I read the lines out loud, and after each sentence he would stop me and explain how he was going to argue in my favor during trial. So we proceeded working through the fictitious confession that he prepared for me. Unknown to me - this slime ball was recording my ever word I read and had turned the recording over to the prosecutor and it was used in court..... I fired him, but the genie was already out of the bottle and there was nothing I could do at this point. Did this slime ball care that his games put an innocent man in jail? Nope! He got his one minute of fame, which by his rationalization jump started his stagnent career....

20 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous

After being "defended" by Attorney Kachinsky for a few weeks, I found he was condescending and treated me like I was guilty and in no way helped my case. I became disappointed and fired him as soon as I could. I highly advise against hiring him as your attorney. He made a quick buck off of me and horribly misrepresented me.

Norman L. Goeschko

123 1/2 N Main St Uppr, Lake Mills, WI

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +3

1.0/5

1.0

3 Reviews

23 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous

On a set up this attorney took investments stated the investments were replaced never happened very suspect about business dealings never had timelines or records or transactions during his services

02 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous

He is a horrible person. He name calls and makes up stories. When you try to correct his stories he emails you harrassing letters with horrible comments.

04 Oct, 2019 by Susan

I hired Norman Goeschko for the probate of my mother. Norman took the case so easy but once I hired him....he didn’t communicate at all to me or my sisters by phone, letters, email or any other way. I had to fire him and hire another attorney to get the probate done. Then Norman gave my new attorney a hard time and would not forward all the documents to my new attorney. Very disappointed with Norman and not professional at all. This probate when on for 3 years because he didn’t communicate in any way after I called, my sisters called for any updates, etc. after I fired him he slapped me with a extremely high bill and Norman didn’t do anything for our family. I don’t recommend him to anyone. I know 4 attorneys and he is terrible comparing him to the others. Norman is a nightmare.

Ronald Gabriel Benavides

Po Box 7923, Madison, WI

Criminal Defense Federal Crime +2

1.0/5

1.0

3 Reviews

03 Sep, 2024 by Malencia

This man has been appointed for my CHILD! He has not returned ANY CALLS in 3+ months! DO NOT HIRE HIM!!! THE WORSE ATTORNEY IN TOWN, his license should be revoked!

21 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous

Could not keep facts straight. Failed to meet when he said he would. Failed to provide discovery. Generally did not defend me in any way.

18 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous

Was suppose to defend my sister he would tell he 5yrs then 10yrs then 15 he didnt do anything to defend he he worked with prosecuter to take all of her property they plea they agreed went out the window. It was like he was part of the prosecution. Absolutely useless

Christopher A. Mutschler

780 S Pier Dr Unit 101, Sheboygan, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

3 Reviews

13 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous

He wanted $4500 up front. I had a very difficult time with communication. We were to go to trial and at the last minute he plead no contest for me without my consent. From then on I am unable to get a hold of him. He will prey on you like the shark he is.

12 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous

As of March 9, 2010, Christopher Mutschler can not practice Law in the state of Wisconsin, He took 5,500 from us and we turned him in and are working with the Bar Association in WI to get our money back. It's about time he got caught taking peoples money, and not doing his job. To all the people he did this to, write to the bar association and let them know what he did to you, I hope he never can practice law again!

28 May, 2009 by Anonymous

I paid Mr. Mutschler $5000 to represent me and I have left messages for months now and he doesn't return my calls, he refunded me money for not representing me correctly (which took him over a month to send) and the check bounced, he is the most impossible person to get ahold of to ask any simple question. He said that he filed paperwork with the court house, I had another attorney check and all the information he has given me is lies. I am in the process of turning him in for unethical behavior and trying to get a refund. Don't waste your money or your time, there are quality lawyers out there and he is not one of them!

Margaret M. Anderson

Po Box 5242, Madison, WI

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

1.0/5

1.0

3 Reviews

25 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous

Gave rights to a man who sexually assaulted me and got me pregnant! Changed her last name,gave him rights to choose my kids school and he ended up sexually assaulting my child!

05 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous

This woman failed my children miserably. When she actually showed up to meetings on time, she was unkempt and full of cat fur. She ended up granting joint custody of young children to a known and proven abusive parent. She even ENCOURAGED the parent to ask for more custody time with the children than the parent even wanted. That's what killed me the most. It's an absolute shame what this lawyer did, and now my children continue to pay every single time they have forced custody time with this abusive parent. Please: find someone else to do this job because this woman is an incapable fool.

25 May, 2017 by Anonymous

this atty will favor the women in any case and will pull out all tricks to share cases with other attys

Miranda Lea Lezcano

1324 Schofield Ave, Schofield, WI

Business Criminal Defense Family Law +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

13 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous

She is legit incompetent to handle anything of importance. She sent my confidential documents to my X in the middle of our nasty divorce. The letter was to contact her in so many days or she would file a motion to drop me as a client, she sent it directly to My X who of course w/ held the letter. So I lost my Judacare attorney due to her negligence. She had my address, & sent other documents to me. But the one of such importance she sent to my X. Also when I retrieved my documents, she had another clients documents mixed in with mine. Another clients Social security #’s , child custody information, address, phone # etc . Irresponsible to say the least! She never did the work to have child support w/held so my children went w/ out. She is a joke amongst other attorneys, when I found new counsel they laughed & stated she should never be allowed to take anyone’s case. Absolutely incompetent! It’s sad when you are in an abusive situation & desperate & have to rely on Judacare appointed attorney to help you and you end being abused by a so called attorney who is suppose to help you. I almost gave up & went back to that abusive situation because I was so afraid to fight in court without the attorney I lost. Turns out, she did me a favor. With how poorly she handled my case I would hate to see how she would have handled herself in court. My only regret is not turning her in to the bar. She should not be allowed to represent anybody!

15 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous

Miranda Lezcano is only in it for the money. She refuses to do any work. I emailed her with a question about our court order and I was charged $15 for an email back telling me to figure it out myself. In court she just sits back and let's whatever happens happen. Because of her not only am I in an unfair situation but my child too is in a situation that is unfair.

David Lawrence Grace

250 E Grand Ave, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

27 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous

I hired Grace for my divorce. Initially, there was a retainer fee provided. Throughout the course of the divorce, Grace never kept me updated on the cost of his representation. I was never informed or given a bill until the end of the representation. Common practice for any other attorney is that they keep you informed and let you know if more money is needed for representation. Grace's main concern was the negative relationship he had with my ex-wife's attorney of which he had previous controversy with. Most of the face to face meetings were wasted time of Grace bragging about himself and talking about his personal hobbies which I was billed for that time. During the representation, Grace informed me that I needed value for my home. He gave me the option of getting an appraisal or going by the tax role. I told him I could not afford an appraisal and the tax role was accurate as to the value of my home. He took it upon himself to hire an appraisal company who in turn harassed my ex-wife numerous times before I had to call Grace and remind him that I had never agrees to an appraisal. In the final bill, Grace charged me for the appraisal, which was never done, as well as his time consulting with the appraisal company. The few things that Grace did for me I could have easily done on my own. Total waste of money and time. There are far better lawyers out there. I wish I would have done more research on him before hiring him.

05 Jun, 2018 by Greg

Abusive foulmouthed. Very rude in front of our small children cursing and bragging about his toolbox. Bragged about knowing and shared details of a criminal case which he was not attached because he was friends with the sheriff and the sheriff told him all the details. Very ignorant of the law and had to keep looking things up in law books like a student. NEver heard of or was familiar with the law as related to family law. Just spent his time bragging about how smart he was. If you need a lawyer you would be better off going to the mall or walmart. HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE

John B. Zadrazil

2920 W Heritage Ave, Appleton, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

01 Jan, 2014 by Annonomous

He represented my husband and practically made things worse in one hearing. I swear I think he must've flipped through the notes for 5 minutes before the hearing because he couldn't even keep the facts straight. what a joke.

28 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous

As an attorney, he was late for court, didn't listen to what I was telling him and actually couldn't even keep the details straight and mixed them up. He is a horrible attorney and I would only recomend him to someone I wanted to see behind bars for a very long time.

Dawn M. Sabel

76 S Macy St, Fond Du Lac, WI

Bankruptcy Criminal Defense Elder Law +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

09 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous

I have no rating...she was hired by the State after my grandson's father passed away. Only interested in obtaining the deceased house. Will not give us a breakdown of charges that we owe. Never gave us any hourly rate.. we have been dealing with her for over a year!

30 Oct, 2020 by Dave

Showed up for court late, left her phone on when in court, answered it. Poor representation, promised a certain amount for representing me, $500.00 but when I received the bill it was 3x's higher than what she quoted me, $1400.00.

Benjamin J. Peirce

6650 W State St Ste D207, Wauwatosa, WI

Criminal Defense Family Law Intellectual Property +3

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

06 Apr, 2024 by Terrence lafaive

This women will literally lie to you Saying you don't have a case in order to shirk work. Text book gold-brick . She will go as far as even trying to persuade you with erroneous information to convince you to not appeal your case. She represented my guy Curtis Brown and ended up causing a mistrial due to her ineffective performance. This poor man is doing 34 years in prison due to her negligence. I ask for my casefile and she won't even give me documents that negate my guilt. Marcella you should be absolutely ashamed of yourself.. When confronted by the Office of Lawyer regulation about emails that allude toward prosecutoral misconduct being withheld. She literally ignored me. Public defender Marcella depeters is the epitome of what's wrong with America's justice system. Shame on you.

01 Oct, 2021 by Rico hart

Andrew Krajnek

846 N 8th St, Manitowoc, WI

Business Criminal Defense Family Law +3 +6

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

16 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous

This attorney does not communicate or take phone calls and will not call back no matter how many times you let your name and number. Got the impression that he has no time for you and your questions. Does not keep you updated and does not file documents on time.

08 Feb, 2023 by Jill

If you want an attorney that won't answer your emails, reply to your questions and concerns, AND still charge you for reading every email you send, then Attorney Krajnek is for you. On the other hand, if you want an attorney that will properly represent you, then I would go with just about any other attorney you can find.

Debra R. Mancoske

122 South Washington Street, Green Bay, WI

Child Custody Criminal Defense Family Law +1 +4

+1 (920) 600-9596

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

20 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous

This lawyer is supposed to protect kids and have them with the right parent and look in the best interest of children!! She took my daughter and placed her with her dad after me having her with me since she was 3 she placed my babies with there dad only gave me 2 days out of the month to see my kids ! She does not know anything about my ex not his place and all my kids sharing a one bedroom and she don’t care but I have a three bedroom and she said my daughter not well adjusted when my daughter had everything she needed and so many people who love her and supported her My daughter is not well in her mind now since she has separation anxiety from me and her dr said she does not do good in new places and my daughter can’t handle it !! This lady Didn’t do her job and she lied to the courts said she talked to my witnesses and she didn’t talk to any of them ! I had to get all of the paper work and I filed court she didn’t do nothing she was going to my other party and was not on my side when she supposed to be for the children and the mother ! She only cares about money and not looking about what she doing to these kids by hurting them mentally!! She going to my other party and saying stuff and making more problems for me and my ex !

William H. Gergen

105 Front St., Beaver Dam, WI

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Litigation +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

25 May, 2015 by Ryan jeremy leaver

After investing $5,000.00 into Gergen, Gergen, and Gergen -- the personal injury attorney is never there and $2,500.00 mysteriously disappeared from our "trust account" after being denied monthly invoices for 3 months that of course arrived mysteriously over a weekend when they are closed. Then staff & Gergen attempted to state on the record and in court I was "harassing" his staff questioning the billing that fell outside of the retainer agreement. Bill was great in court when he got paid $5,000, making the points effectively I had to higher attorney Brian Hough to dismiss 5 months later! Bill Gergen neglected to obtain exculpatory evidence prior to his December 19, 2011 withdraw he failed to obtain from the Montana Highway Patrol on December 19-20, 2011 that the Court then used to dismiss the false allegations and harmful potential consequences and damages to life, limb, property, name and family.

Yeng Kong Lee

759 N Milwaukee St Ste 316, Milwaukee, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

06 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous

He always showed up late on court dates and uses the excuse he was busy. Never picked up his phone. His voicemail is always full (tells you he never replies back to people). Told me I will be fine and I still did time. Waste of money, find a better lawyer.

Kristian Kanekoa Lindo

135 W. Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

24 May, 2016 by Al

Did very little to help my case seemed he was in it for the money

Steven C. Garbowicz

221 S First St, Eagle River, WI

Criminal Defense Government Probate +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

02 Apr, 2015 by Jeff

I hired Steve to handle a probate case. Rarely if ever did i hear from Steve. All my questions were referred to his part time paralegals who would answer via email several days after the question was posed. The first paralegal quit early in the case. The second was a part time lady who was actually quite polite and nice but seemed to rarely work during normal business hours and rarely returned my calls. They continually lost important documents that i had to re submit dragging out the process and at the end of the case the bill was 50% higher than what i was originally quoted.

Shawn X. Thao

727 E Walnut St Ste A1, Green Bay, WI

Criminal Defense Family Law Immigration +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

30 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous

The only good thing I can say is that he was good at keeping us informed regarding my worker's compensation case. After the case closed in March 2013, it was really hard to get in contact with him. He has been avoiding our phone calls (which we even diverted to calling his old law firm for help since he was with them while working on my case). I just needed to have him send in the necessary paper works regarding my work comp agreement to re-process the unpaid claims through my insurance company before they refuse to pay (the claims not covered under the worker's compensation agreement). It's now been on-going for the last 6 months that I still cannot get him to send in the necessary documents, so to me his action as a lawyer is the type of lawyer who just wants to get paid and not help you after he gets paid.

Patrick J. Rupich

5310 West Blue Mound Road, Milwaukee, WI

Bankruptcy Criminal Defense Family Law +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

04 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous

I hired this guy for my divorce and he was terrible. He did not show up to court and didn't even bother to let me know. He wouldn't do things I would ask him to do. He never got back to me!!!! He ordered a GAL, when I ordered him not too. The other attorney cancelled the GAL and Mr. Rupich ordered it against my advice. I did not want the kids having to go through this. They had to appear before the GAL. I was a stay at home for 14 years and I got 50 50 placement!!!! I had no job for all those years and I got $275 a month in child support and NO spousal support of any kind. He ruined my life!!! I ended up firing him and had to get a new attorney! I can't even tell you how terrible he was. We almost had a signed agreement with every other weekend visitation until he ordered the GAL twice and didn't bother to show up in court!!

Jamie McClendon

927 Main Street, Racine, WI

Criminal Defense Juvenile Law +2

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

14 Mar, 2019 by Alyssa

I would not recommend Jamie, my fiance had her for a Public "Defender", she did not come visit when she said she would, only time she came was for him to sign a ridiculous plead.. She did not listen to what he had to say, she would not show him the evidence they had on him.. And told him "We" are investigating you, so totally on DA side. My fiance ended up firing her and she laughed and said thank you! If you are looking for a public defender, I would recommend getting a new one ASAP!

Michael R. Younglove

731 Main St, Racine, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

07 Jul, 2011 by Sean

He is the worst lawyer to have in any case if your not guilty of anything. He took over my case from Sally Hoelzel because Judge appointment.I personal believe he has violated lawyer ethic standard as a lawyer, however, the state will not pursue the matter. He had only one job only to gain return of child to innocent parent in trial. Mr Younglove only wanted to make a deal to get the guilty parent off he did not represent( my X wife) by asking me for permission to Talk to Racine county D.A. office. He was told only trial, but still set up a deal for to let my then wife off who was represent by James Pruitt. I was told by Sally Hoelzel never make any deal. However, Younglove only will bring me unapproved deal by me to his client ME! I told him he do want to because that what he always did anyway, but not show up in court for me again. He sole cost me my only child for rest my life. I not to sure you want him if your guilt try get off crime. He a basic screw up and in my believe he legally responsible for my pain and suffering of lose of my son. Without lawyer,I self terminated because finance at that point of this case. I have no ability to go to trial without a lawyer. Thank God this was not criminal trial. He have me in jail.

Angela Dawn Bergner

130 E Walnut St # 306, Green Bay, WI

Criminal Defense +1

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

10 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous

Do Not Hire Her!!! She was my court appointed attorney...so she was basicly working for him...not me. FYI...if you can afford a non court appointed attorney..get one! She completely set me up. She did not return calls and emails, and did the very minimum to actually look like she was doing her job. She was allotted 20 hours by the judge. She wanted to make sure she used all 20 hours to get paid for all 20. When I didnt take the deal and insisted on a jury trial she had most of the hours used. She did not prepare at all for court, did not use any of the evidence to help with my defense, did not properly question witnesses....and the list goes on. She set me up so I would be convicted. Do Not Use Her!!!

Timothy C. Baxter

57972 Breckenridge Ln, Wauzeka, WI

Criminal Defense Family Law Juvenile Law +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

01 Mar, 2024 by Adam

He will tell any lie he has to, withhold or allow evidence to his favor, to get the outcome he wants rather its right or not in court. Breaks the law himself while working for the law.

Patrick Howard Finlan

210 E Anderson St, Rhinelander, WI

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Personal Injury +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

05 May, 2015 by Anonymous

This was my attorney but at times acted more in the behalf of my ex than me. This cost me real estate based on time put in to maintain property as marital property. He did not show strength in dealing with an opponent who was skilled at evasion, but rather asked me to trust my ex and his attorney.. the final outcome was a case that took an additional 4 years to settle. No time limit on selling property, no interest on final payment to me as my debts accrued..no incentive for ex to finish paying his obligation to me.

William G. Weiland

841 Pepper Avenue, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Bankruptcy Criminal Defense Real Estate +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

22 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous

Seems to cow tow to whatever the county wants instead of doing what is best for his client. Would not recommend him for any help dealing with elderly people who were railroaded by the county. Doesn't even cross examine the opposite side.

Warren Lee Brandt

W13105 635th Ave, Prescott, WI

Criminal Defense Litigation +2

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

07 Oct, 2022 by Stephanie street

Update & reply to owner: Why do I have a copy of my cashed $1500 retainer check from my bank that I wrote to you in hand? I added a redacted copy of my invoice. Was even billed for a date that has not even come to pass yet! Future billing??? Lots of misspelling on legal forms. No attention to detail.

Ronald K. Colwell

103 W College Ave Ste 1005, Appleton, WI

Child Custody Criminal Defense Sex Crime +3

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

28 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous

Hired attorney for misdemeanor. Attorney repeatedly late for hearings, missed pertinent details in case. Performance in hearing was not worth the retainer fee.

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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.

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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