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28 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney was hired. Be sure to ask questions and understand your case. He is a flat fee attorney, be aware of what that means and how much he will and won't work on your case. Very little was done on my case. Do your research and do not rely on reviews or credentials.
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12 May, 2016 by Flynn
He is an attorney that is extremely knowledgeable in various aspects of the law and did an awesome job at helping me remain confident. He doesn't beat around the bush and tells it how it is where as some attorneys will tell you what you want to hear just to get cash from your pocket. I felt very comfortable with him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone that is in need.
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24 Apr, 2018 by Mike
Gregory Scott literally saved my life and career from devastation. He was diligent in his pursuit of finding the facts to prove false information that was reported by the arresting officer. He was always friendly and gave good advice. He presented my case thoroughly and with professionalism, and his closing statement was well-planned and very effective. I had no idea how to find an attorney to handle my case, and interviewed at least a dozen attorneys before I found him. I felt like I was in good hands from the first time I met him. I felt like I could trust him and that he truly cared about the outcome of my situation. He's a little expensive but he worked out a payment plan for me that fit within my budget. And he was worth every dime. I would highly recommend him.
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12 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Hire at your own risk because the only person doing his job is his assistant or sister in this case. Never arrested in my life and party to a set-up DV, where I was the actual victim, I was railroaded out the gate. "Promised" Police reports, CAD recordings, expert witnesses who he never called, continuance after continuance, never providing the court one motion in my defense while the county prosecutors went on a witch hunt for a year (all the while my child parentally kidnapped), mysteriously never brought crucial evidence to trial, failed to cross examine YPD (example: officer 3 stating I resisted arrest- did not happen and I had never seen this police officer in my life - I would have remembered as I was handcuffed w/o cause, stuffed in the police car and driven off immediately before I even knew what was happening, again this was the FIRST TIME I HAD BEEN ARRESTED IN MY LIFE), spent my huge retainer on having me investigated and my father to qualify whether he'd have issues when he threw the trial or my case, couldn't even print one glossy photo of my injuries, I literally had to pull out my own exhibits at trial, he was NOT PREPARED! Smooth talker and definitely part of the good old boys club, lied to me about the progress of my case or things he was going to do and never did and lead me down one path, then took another and concealed his alliance with the prosecutors. Should be brought up on charges by the WA State Bar for unethical billing (no statements or progress reports), ineffective assistance in a HAT, misconduct and breeching client privilege!
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I generally have a poor opinion of lawyers but Greg Is a cut above the average lawyer. I got the feeling he really did care about my situation.
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22 Nov, 2020 by Blanca
Barry is a god sent! he help me get my license back on a deferred prosecution. He is very calm and very polite lawyer he listens to you when you feel like there is no hope Barry is the man that can help you he is professional and respectful. Thank you Barry for taking care of everything. Don't waste your money on other lawyers he will help you every step of the way.
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17 Sep, 2018 by Scott
I retained Mr. Woodard in my first felony case ever which was Possession of a Controlled Substance. Instead of getting me the Firsttime Felony waiver which turns your first felony into a misdemeanor he got me a year and a half of drug court which I subsequently failed and now lost my gun rights due to the felony on my record. Terrible attorney.
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19 May, 2017 by Mike
This guy is really bad i remembered back in 2012 i had hired him for a domestic violence case and never gave me a good plea deal. The only plea deal i got was just a 30 day deal and the rest suspended.
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08 Nov, 2018 by Mandi erickson
I don’t know a single attorney to challenge allegations by Yakima Police Department, State Farm Insurance Associates, Department of Social Health Services licensing Department in both Administrative and Likely Criminal proceedings and negotiate them all down to even receive verbal apologies. If you need a legal advocate this is your guy! He is very intelligent and knows his stuff. Be honest with him and upfront and he will have your back the entire way! Highly recomended!!!
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04 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Took my case after representing my child's mother. I told him her name and even showed him pictures. After finding out he had a conflict of interest he dropped me and changed me an outrageous amount for the amount of work that was done.
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27 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Contacted Chris Tait to help with a business law issue and he constantly wants more and more money to pad his retainer. After two years of unresponsiveness and getting nothing done I fired him. Still have never seen a statement of charges or the balance of my retainer.
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07 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I'm not sure if i would recommend Attorney Dalan yet. I still have not seen any results so I cannot fairly rate Attorney Dalan. I'm not sure how many clients Attorney Dalan has. I know my son hired her two weeks ago and is still waiting for a court date to get scheduled so he can try to get his visitation with his daughter back. This is heart breaking. His visitation rights were wrongfully taken away from him. If I were educated in law I would have been on the case immediately especially since I already received my retainer fee!
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05 Aug, 2013 by Melissa
Quinn took my case, even though she wasn't at the time familiar with the area of law concerned. She quickly became familiar with it, enough to provide me with solid legal support and representation, and to ultimately win my case. She was up against a flank of high profile lawyers with years of experience in that area of law, and didn't flinch or lack confidence in any way. She prepared an excellent case with clear case law, used her knowledge and trial experience, and saved my life. She cared about my case, and kept in touch with me despite a busy schedule. If she couldn't call back right away, I always knew she would as soon as she could, and I knew I could call or email and she would respond. I can't recommend her highly enough. She is a high quality, ethical and able attorney.
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07 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I got transferred to her from grant county public defense when my attourney got sick an resigned. I called every day for 25 days and got 1 call back after making a complaint to the director of public defense! She didn't do anything for me at all! And when we did go to court she didn't even realize that my case had been called and that I was even there. I was standing in the defendants spot and the judge asked me where my attourney was and who it was. I said Quinn Rosborough and he called her attention to the stand and re read the case info. Luckily the prosecutor motioned for dismissal that day. Rosborough had no clue what was going on!
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25 May, 2022 by Jason bangs
This guy is in his 50s and he's still working as a public defender? That should tell you something kids out of college work as public defenders for a few years and then move on to better jobs he's taking the easy route and working for the state making deals with the same people he's eating lunch with. it's like playing Little League your whole life and hitting 50 home runs great for you.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
This man refused to interview each and every witness i provided refused to file every motion i had to literally force him to file and still didn't! He refused to contact me! Plus made no effort whatsoever to make my case it was always sign the deal or else!!! I can say affirmatively that this man does not have your best defense in mind... In my personal experience with this prosecuter aka jeff west he has no intention of defending you no matter what the evidence is... He will literally take your statement right to the prosecuting attorney so they can both figure out how they can most effectively convict you! Look into his record for yourself!
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05 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
I had Mr. West as a court appointed attorney. I felt he was very knowledgeable with the current laws. I also felt he was forthcoming with all aspects of what the outcome of court case could be. I liked Mr West as he was honest and didn't play "games". Thank you Mr. West.
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25 May, 2022 by Amy
Aaron case was my boyfriends attorney at one point and he did not act like an attorney that was trying to help him. My boyfriend was telling him what he was wanting to do with his case and Aaron ignored him all together. I would not recommend him to anyone. Horrible attorney!
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06 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
The few officers envolved in my case are lying for eachother and its obvious, and to get convictions/further themselves in their career. He doesnt want to fight for me to prove my innocence every time i met with him he tried to get me to take a deal amd he still never got me a copy of police reports even after. His attitude was great at first but then changed and he started to get rude and frustrated with me one day because i wouldnt except a plea. Ive tried to show him that the officers broke the law and He will change the subject. He seems like hes got too many cases shoved ar him and he doesnt have the time to help or work on the case other rhen when were in court or when were face to face in a meeting.
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18 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer trick my husband in taking a plea bargain and later found out that the paper work was not filled out correctly and now his at an extra 13 months...this lawyer has been aware of the mess up since June 16th, 2013 and 5 months later with numerous phone calls and letters he says he's going to fix it and nothing....my husband has now completed his original plea bargain sentence so now he's just waiting out the extra 13 months....don't know what to do...this lawyer has not responded to any letter or phone calls messages!
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04 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Be forewarned, Amy charges a high retainer that is also 100% NON-REFUNDABLE. Not only was she never in her office, she never does client consultations before trials. Clients are left to have all their questions answered by her para-legal or the receptionist (who has no legal certifications of any sort yet bills her time at a higher rate than the para-legal at the office I switched to!). Not only was my case constantly going before a judge for outlandish claims by my ex, but Amy would show up absolutely clueless about the details of my case leaving me wondering if she had even read my declarations before she went to court (again, she only spoke to me directly 2-3 times the entire time she worked for me!). She didn't seem to know the case or the law when she spoke in court and not surprisingly I lost several cases even though she had evidence IN HAND that disproved my ex's claims. Then after actually reading the entire case IN court and losing, she would file a motion to have the case reviewed by another judge...which meant she billed be a second time for paperwork, hours and who knows what else only to end with the same outcome. I spoke with several other lawyers and learned that these "appeals" are extremely rare to do, let alone win. I immediately switched to a new lawyer and asked for the remaining funds of my retainer back and was denied. Since firing her I have heard several horror stories from others that were unlucky enough to retain her. Honestly, I think she needs to be investigated by the Bar Association for fraud and negligence of duty. I'm just glad I got a different attorney before my final trial and was able to get a fair and reasonable outcome. Just wish I didn't have to waste over $12k on my first lawyer for nothing.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  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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