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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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17 Sep, 2024 by Ryan
I was very fortunate to have been given a recommendation to karli from another local attorney. I reached out to karli, and she responded very quickly. Was very attentive from the start. I felt extremely comfortable, and confident very quickly after talking/meeting with her, That karli is the attorney that knows exactly how to treat clients, and knows her career. Karli takes alot of pride in ehat she does, she is very intelligent. I was impressed how quickly she knew exactly what she was going to do/had to do. Her communication with me was great, her willingness to be flexible in meeting as we were 45 minutes apart. Not planning on it, but if needed an attorney again, karli will be the one I can count on, and anyone considering karli, you will not be disappointed
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jesse
I was referred to Karli from another attorney. Upon contacting her, she responded back timely and asked plenty of questions. Karli followed up with me shortly after and went over the whole plan, explaining her steps and why she was doing what she was. During our hearing, Karli spoke with passion and did not hesitate to be direct. She was able to give me a positive outcome. Her communication is tremendous. And Karli did everything as promised without any trouble.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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05 Jun, 2024 by Robin
The bottom line is that Michael gets the job done! He knows the law, and he knows the system very well. I will be forever grateful to attorney Erlich l for my OUI acquittal.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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23 May, 2024 by John moak
Mr. Erlich was great to work with, he took the time to understand the details of my case which led to a very positive outcome. While I hope the need will never arise I would absolutely hire him again for his friendliness and expertise.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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23 May, 2024 by John moak
Mr. Erlich was great to work with, he took the time to understand the details of my case which led to a very positive outcome. While I hope the need will never arise I would absolutely hire him again for his friendliness and expertise.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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23 May, 2024 by John moak
Mr. Erlich was great to work with, he took the time to understand the details of my case which led to a very positive outcome. While I hope the need will never arise I would absolutely hire him again for his friendliness and expertise.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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23 May, 2024 by John moak
Mr. Erlich was great to work with, he took the time to understand the details of my case which led to a very positive outcome. While I hope the need will never arise I would absolutely hire him again for his friendliness and expertise.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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23 May, 2024 by John moak
Mr. Erlich was great to work with, he took the time to understand the details of my case which led to a very positive outcome. While I hope the need will never arise I would absolutely hire him again for his friendliness and expertise.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Virtus
Would recommend Adam to anyone . Very professional, organized , and knowledgeable. He made my divorce experience as seamless as possible .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Donjet toto
Att. Erlich is a pleasure to work with. He works hard and honestly. Charges dismissed!
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23 May, 2024 by John moak
Mr. Erlich was great to work with, he took the time to understand the details of my case which led to a very positive outcome. While I hope the need will never arise I would absolutely hire him again for his friendliness and expertise.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Casale helped me reach a favorable outcome for a traffic ticket. He is diligent and knowledgeable. I highly recommend him. Thank you Mr. Casale.
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07 Feb, 2020 by Stephanie
I have to say ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ratings Is not enough when it come to Atty Casale. I have only good things to say about Atty Casale. I reached out in the middle of the night for help and before the sun even came up Atty Casale was reaching out to me and had advised me what I should do with my legal situation. This is matter had stressed me out Immensely and thanks to this gentleman I can honestly say I can breathe again. I Highly Recommend Atty Casale to anyone in need of legal Council! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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24 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
My college roommate and I were both charged with felony level crimes. We were terrified because it was just a huge mistake and we were scared we would never get hired for jobs after graduating if we had criminal records. We had talked to several lawyers before consulting with Attorney Casale and after a quick phone conversation, we knew this was the person we wanted to hire! Attorney Casale was honest, understanding and reassuring throughout this horrifying ordeal. When it came to the day of the trail, Attorney Casale met us at the courthouse and within 50 minutes he was able to deliver a pre-trail dismissal and we were on our way back to campus. If you are looking for a lawyer that is dedicated to your case, truly holds your best interest at heart and fight for the best results I would reccomend Attorney Casale!
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04 Feb, 2024 by Jesus
Joseph did a great Job helping me. He is a GREAT lawyer! He did a amazing job with my case and im nothing but thankful to Joseph.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Joe is outstanding. Helped my family for over 2 years. Fought hard, was persistent and got the job done. I would recommend Joe 10/10 times to anyone.
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02 Nov, 2019 by Glenn
Mr Hennessy is a great defense attorney , he definitely takes pride in his cases that is in front of him , never had any issues of mr Hennessy not calling or texting back with anything new on the case , as someone that dont break the law , mr Hennessy definitely brought a carm situation knowing of the case before him, after seeing mr Hennessy win my case ,court ,i was amazing by the action he took , very strong independent attorneys, i am so pleased that mr Hennessy was my attorney, i thank you
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31 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Smith represented me for a possible OUI, Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and other charges that could have been brought into the situation. I was facing life altering possibilities that would have affected my young kids, husband, work, and other things I worked so hard to accomplish. I could have lost everything in my eyes. Mr. Smith was instantly empathetic and honest and connected facts with my situation to ease as much anxiety as possible. He knew the facts and figures of my case, never forgot any detail, and explained how best to handle this based on his professional and personal experiences. He included me in every choice and set deadlines that held everyone accountable and stuck to them. Because of his experiences, choices, and integrity, he set up exactly what we needed to do and have in order to have the best possible outcome. This resulted in everything being dropped instantly in the beginning of my hearing. Without his choices in what we needed for documentation, without his professional expertise, and without his ability to judge people/situations so well, this would have never happened. I HIGHLY recommend Mr. Smith as an attorney. Thank you!
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07 Feb, 2020 by Diane
I hired Sean Smith to represent my son. I couldn't had asked for a better attorney. Sean went far and beyond to fight for my son. I am forever grateful. Sean will always call you back with any concern; showing care and compassion during a very difficult time.
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29 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I recently hired Attorney Smith to represent me in a civil case that I was involved in. Suffice it to say, that Attorney Smith did an excellent job in his representation of me. He was thoroughly professional, thoughtful, and highly responsive throughout the process. He completely made me feel at ease with the process and kept me informed of every step. When you are feeling overwhelmed and under extreme stress/pressure, you need an attorney that you can trust to advocate on your behalf and be sensitive to your needs during a confusing time, Attorney Smith was that and more for me. He is intelligent, down to earth, and knows what he is doing. If you want bang for your buck and an attorney who is there to help and not con you, then choose Attorney Smith. I got the result I wanted and couldn't be happier, and I was glad to have Attorney Smith on my side.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Sara
Me and my boyfriend hired Natalie for our case, she was absolutely wonderful, she kept us updated and explained everything to us. She was diligent with her work. She won our case and we were able to get our lives back to normal. We will be forever grateful for her hard work and will always recommend her to anyone needing a great lawyer.
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29 Mar, 2019 by Jensy
If you are reading this, you are probably going through what I went through... a lot of pain with not many answers to what you should do next. I needed someone that understood the facts and also was caring and understanding. I have two kids and they mean everything to me and I didn’t want to cause them pain so I wanted someone that understood how to help me and that’s when I found Natalie. She was truly amazing. She laid out a plan for me right away and told me the do’s and dont’s. Honestly I don’t know where I would be if she wasn’t there for me. She is calm, professional and truly experienced. I highly recommend her. She fought for me and was able to get me what I deserve... my life back! Thank you Natalie!!!!
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05 Mar, 2019 by Scott
Natalie is one of the best of the Best LAYER one could ask for. She fights the fight in good faith. I've seen her go in swinging and come out fighting. She never gives up. She is one layer i would recommend to the world. She never gives up with out a fight. All i can say is she really puts all of her heart and soul into your case. I've seen LAYERS fight but i MUST say that she is one of the best of the best at what she does. And she really takes your case personally. She walks the walk with you. All i can say is i couldn't ask for a better LAYER than her. Keep up the Awesome job that you do Natalie Ross. You was ment to do what you do. I can't Thank you a nuff. You are the best to me. Thanks so much Scott Remillard
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25 Mar, 2024 by Reggie
“ Attorney Jillian was very helpful for my case. She’s professional, truly cares about her clients. I’m satisfied with the services. I highly recommend it.”
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20 Mar, 2024 by Michael
A extremely aggressive and being she was a past prosecutor she knew the laws from the inside and out. honestly i’m very thankful for jill. she was extremely helpful. she is also very affordable. If you’re looking for the best then you have found her here. I spoke with multiple lawyers before hiring her, Not only did she understand that, and out of my case in particularly gave me direction on which way the case would most likely go. I Highly recommend if you’re looking to keep your freedom!
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05 Mar, 2024 by Michael
Attorney Jill Celozzi provided exactly the support I needed with a misdemeanor charge for a driving offense. She navigated the system seamlessly, managing to win a dismissal at the magistrate's hearing that was not expected to go well given the circumstances. She was straightforward, knowledgeable and informative, sugarcoated nothing, and exceeded expectations at every turn. In the most important moment at the magistrate’s hearing, she was exceptional because she does her homework, is well informed and highly knowledgeable working within the judicial system. Jill Celozzi is a quintessential professional. I am very grateful and consider myself lucky to have found her among a sea of options at a time of significant distress. With Attorney Celozzi supporting you, expect the most favorable outcome possible and at a very reasonable cost.
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15 Sep, 2015 by Jc
Mike got my drunk driving and driving after suspension charges dismissed in Worcester. We had to go back to court a bunch of times and the prosecutor was difficult, but he filed a motion and we had a hearing. The judge agreed and threw the whole thing out. Mike was always available when I needed to talk to him and he never kept me in the dark wondering what was going on. I would definitely use him again (hopefully I won’t need to!).
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09 Aug, 2015 by Dan
Mike has been great. He has helped out of several very difficult situations and has always been straight with me. He knows a lot too. He basically lays out your best options and then goes for it pretty aggressively. He's very dedicated.
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08 Aug, 2015 by Dan
Mike has handled several different matters for me and has always been dedicated to getting the best outcome possible. He is also always available to me when I need information or advice. Mike has also be able to get terrific results in court. I can't say enough about him. Terrific lawyer.
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17 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Best money I ever spent. My case took over a year and Jim was there every step of the way. Most lawyers would have told me to take a deal, not Jim he brought it to trial and it was dismissed. I put my full trust in his desion's and I am so glad I did. Dont want to think about what the future might have been if I used someone less qualified.
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17 Oct, 2011 by Kenneth
I am so grateful to Mr.Kaeding for all his help in getting me through this bankruptcy from start to finish and being so helpful at every step of the way. Thank you again Mr.Kaeding
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13 Oct, 2011 by Darlene
I can't say enough about this gentleman! Atty. Kaeding listens, re-acts, he is extremely honest, he works with YOU, his response in your time of dispair goes without saying. We had hired a lawyer for representation before Atty Kaeding and after three weeks of phone calls with repeated, "Tomorrow's" we had to search elsewhere and Atty. Kaeding was recommended by a court personnel. I contacted him and within a WEEK, my son was out of jail and the case was dismissed! If you are in need of an excellent lawyer, give him a call. Confide in him, trust in him. He will be the first step in giving you or your loved one some peace. Thank you for reading my review and if you think there is no hope, just call Atty Kaeding. A call you wont regret making...
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04 May, 2013 by Ron
I found Mr. Kelly to be an excellent communicator. He explained a difficult legal process in simple terms and then kept me informed of all the progress along the way. I would not hesitate to retain his services in the future.
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26 Oct, 2012 by Thomas
Did a excelent job of anwsering my question with the information i needed
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12 Jun, 2012 by Rob
Excellent experience with Steve on military law. He provided accurate guidance and demished my concerns accurately. He was always available by cell for consultations/advice. I would highly recommend Steve for all the facets of law he practices. His conscientiousness and knowledge is beyond compare.
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15 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I was arrested last April in 2017 for a criminal misdemeanor. I was fired from my job do to this. I was appointed a court appointed attorney do to indigence, whom barley contacted me and returned none of my calls. He said " They want you guilty, no one is going to allow a CWOF." For a misdemeanor, it was a really bad charge. After asking the judge for a new court appointed attorney and granted one, I asked the new lawyer again to CWOF. He instead was going to put me on the stand saying " You have no defense, but you say your not guilty so I'm scheduling a trail date." At that time I thought I was doomed. Fatherhood wise and professionally, I had everything riding on this outcome. I even had an open custody battle in probate court. After lots of continence's, a change of D.A. do to conflict of interest, and gaining employment, almost a year later I hired Attorney Merrilee Grenier. Her approach was totally new. She had me get reference letters, professional credentials, and negative drug test together. Negotiated with the special DA whom also wanted me to hang, and got me the CWOF I so desperately needed. She also knocked the 2 years probation down to 1 year and I am even currently allowed to smoke marijuana for a medical issue while on probation. This sharp young lady literally saved my entire lively hood. I am hiring her again for my friend with some legal issues. I have been represented by a lot of lawyers over the years, with confidence I can say that Merrilee Grenier is your best shot of getting the type of defense that you need. In this unbalanced scale of the court system, she definitely has something to weigh in on and balances the laws of justice with elegance and grace. Definitely hire Merrilee Grenier. You can also find her by contacting Murphy & Rudolf LLC.
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10 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Merrilee Grenier is an excellent criminal attorney. She is very knowledgable, skilled and responsive but also truly cares about her client. I was charged with shopliftng and was extremly nervous about going into court and the potential of this charge negatively effecting my career in education. Not only did she get the case dismissed before I had to go into a courtroom, she helped me get through a very difficult time. I would highly recommend Merilee Grenier. She's excellent!
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15 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I know David for at least 22 years, I don’t like to review anyone, But this attorney took me out of so much stress that I was going thru and turned everything around against the accusers. I highly recommend him to anyone that need some help. Very reasonable on price. Even my problem with tenants he was able to help me with. If you are looking for a plea lawyer don’t look for him, he will fight for you.
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23 May, 2017 by Marlborough
I don't get why it shows "Discipline" I know this attorney very well someone must got mad at him and file this. I never seen such professional person like attorney David!
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10 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Worked very well with my son and kept my wife and son feeling confident that things would be OK. I feel that he went above and beyond what I was expecting.
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08 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Did a great job, kept me updated and really worked to keep me informed and realistic. I would hire him again in a minute.
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01 Dec, 2017 by Manuel
Attorney Burwick is an excellent litigator and a very competent trial lawyer. Anyone who retains his assistance is unlikely to be disappointed.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Kari
Marina has been lifesaver(Literally) for over 20 years. Very Professional, sufficient N knows her stuff especially in the courtroom. I have had her for numerous legal matters thru the years. Having Marina beside me whether in the courtroom or just a legal question always was the best turn out. I would highly recommend her for her Wisdom is beyond her years! Thank-you Marina <3
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07 Mar, 2023 by James
Rebecca is a diligent, passionate, caring, and highly, capable, Criminal Defense Attorney. She, fights, for, the rights, of her, clients. She, is very, honest, ethical, and straight forward.
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10 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I'm not easily impressed but I had a great experience with attorney Bruce Hopper. Extremely well prepared for court, very honest and candid with me and seemed to have an excellent relatationship with everyone else in the court house. I had a great result and I attribute it to him!
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31 Dec, 2015 by Steve
He did a great job. I would use him again. I highly recommend him.
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19 Oct, 2010 by Dale
This lawyer represented me in two separate matters beyond my expectations. She was very personable and returned my phone calls promptly. She was legitimately concerned that justice was served. I would definitely recommend this lawyer to anyone.
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22 Jan, 2019 by Laura
Atty Garrity was professional, thorough, very knowledgeable and affordable! He got right to work and got the job done. He helped me with a housing case but he's great for any legal needs!
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15 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Works incredibly hard, always was attentive when it came to listening to our questions and giving us advice. Was incredibly hard working and respectful.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Daniel
Robert is the best lawyer in worcester ma,my case was dismissal.Robert was very professional
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29 Aug, 2017 by Jason
I think John spends a lot of time in the real estate realm helping protect landlord's interests. I called John on a civil matter. I called several massachusetts civil attorneys. He was one of a few to respond. Joh was the most knowledgable, most engaging and most informative attorney of all I spoke to. he even made time to meet with me at 7 in the evening! He listened, gave an honest opinion of what to expect then when I hired him took care of every part of the case in an efficient and professional manner. I'd recommend him to anyone who needs a good person and a good attorney on their side!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Bill whelan
A extremely knowledgeable and detailed attorney. He has helped me work through many negotiations. I highly recommend Tony!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Bob zollo
Attorney Tomasiello has been our family attorney for many years . He is very thorough and explains everything in detail to you. He Returns phone calls promptly and he is very professional. Thank you Tony for being our Family attorney for over 70 years.
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02 Dec, 2021 by Maria sciannameo
Mr. Tomasiello has been our attorney for many years. My experience has been very positive, from the sale & purchase of property to the writing of wills. He responds promptly to all inquires and has been very helpful in finding information when needed. I am very satisfied with his work and would not hesitate to recommend him to others.
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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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