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25 Jun, 2024 by Rosie r1234
Joel Lueck is extremely professional and upfront. I highly recommend Joel, he is an excellent lawyer that keeps open communication. He always responded to my emails or text messages in an efficient matter. When I called Joel he was straight forward with me and did not make any promises about winning my case, however he said that he was going to try his best at pleading on my behalf. I was scared because I was charged with three traffic violations: Exceeding 101 MPH, unsafe lane change and following to close. Which meant the suspension of my license for six months according to the website of the DMV. If I plead guilty to all charges the judge told me that I was going to obtain four points in my driving record; the judge also stated that the first violation was going to remain on my record for ten years if found guilty. ( speeding over 100 MPH). So I felt the necessity to hired him via phone because my court was at Kern County Superior Court in the city of Shafter and I live in Oceanside. I wanted to avoid driving three hours away from my location. After court, Joel gave me the news of my life. He said that the only charge I was convicted of was speeding in excess of 70mph(one point). All the other charges were dismissed. For such a strong case I believe that his fees are very reasonable.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Tato oats
Jorge is the best! I could not be happier with the services that Jorge has provided. Took care of my taxes. Addressed all my concerns, appreciate the professionalism and would highly recommend Jorge!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Suzanne
Thank you Jorge for the guidance. Appreciated the call back during your busy time!!! Thanks again for the direction!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Daniel
mark help me to remove my DUI and some old records I had thank you for helping me you did a nice job and well hire you again and hardly recommend you thank you for your help
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17 Feb, 2023 by Anthony
I was 23 when this situation occurred. I was coming home after a graveyard shift to find my daughter awake at 5 in the morning with her mother and a man I had never met inside my home. Drugs on the table and both of them belligerently drunk. The stranger made threatening advances and one thing led to another and I ended up fearing for my life and shooting him twice. I have never found myself in any serious legal trouble before this incident but I was later charged with 2 felonies (assault with a deadly weapon, intent to terrorize). I had one and only one offer for the majority of 4 years. The court's offer was flat out 7 years in prison. The situation being as serious as it was I knew I needed the best lawyer by my side regardless of charge or distance. I spent many hours scouring reviews and online results of every local lawyer in Bakersfield and Mark definitely stood out from the crowd. Results don't lie and Mark's price wasn't any more than any other lawyer of his caliber. I knew from our very first meeting that I had made a great choice and instantly retained him, and so our 4 year journey began. Mark's a master of his craft and knows all the ins and outs of the court system. My case was dragged on for four years in my favor. With COVID-19 all major courts processes were slowed down for nearly two years. I believe this case was not a race but a slow and steady marathon. Although you may want your case done as quickly as possible, which can certainly happen.. I felt Mark's ability to drag my case out until the perfect timing was a game changer. Some lawyers want to get you in and out and wipe their hands clean of your case, but Mark was willing to stay patient and diligent and work with me long term which I greatly appreciated. His staff was always helpful and informative through the whole process. There were no hidden fees or agendas and they always made me feel confident in everything they helped with. Fast forward to just a few weeks ago and my prayers have been answered. The day before trial was set I accepted a miraculous new offer which I was so happy to accept. Mark's work paid off and he was able to get the DA to offer me NO FELONIES, 1 MISDEMEANOR ASSAULT THAT WILL BE DISMISSED WITHIN A YEAR. This means I was put in a horrible situation that I felt I needed to use deadly force and I shot someone, got charged with 2 major felonies, was facing 7 years in prison, and Mark somehow got me sentenced with the same charge as someone could receive for a street fight! If you're reading this, look no further. When you are dealing with your life on the line you don't have any room to leave this up for chance. You need a strong, experienced, reputable lawyer, who will stay by your side no matter how long it takes and will give you the confidence and relief you need during your difficult times.
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21 Oct, 2022 by Tagg saef
I recommend The Law Office of Mark Anthony Raimondo, they were able to dismiss my case. From the desk lady to all of team involved in this firm, they are there to help you with whatever you are going through. ALEX SELMAN you are the man, thank you for dismissing my case.
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27 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
When you need a lawyer, choose wisely. Mr. Carbone and his staff were fantastic! My case was handled efficiently, and effectively. Mr. Carbone and his staff Reina and Bobby took all the stress out of the entire process. Thank you all so much!!!
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02 May, 2014 by Amber
Robert carbone is a very good lawyer who helped with a move away case. He is trustworthy and very knowledgable. His staff is helpful and friendly. They always helped me with any of my concerns and always returned my phone calls.
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27 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Wow!! Mr. Carbone and his team has helped put my family back in order with his unbelievable talents in the court room. I was paying out the wazoo to my ex and barely seeing my child and Mr.Carbone assured me at the consultation that he could fix it for me. We went to court and after he started i thought to myself "This guy is out of his league, he needs to be in a big city with big shot attorneys". Thank god he was in bakersfield to help me and my daughter or i dont know what could of happened to our relationship.All is great now and we couldnt be happier with our outcome. THANK YOU MR. CARBONE AND YOUR STAFF!!!!
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23 Jan, 2013 by Wayne b
I have used seth on 2 different Legal cases and the outcome was possitive both times..I Have No Regrets at All! He Turned Dirt into Gold!!...and I Would recommend him to my own Family if needed.....He's very knowledgeable and He is a man of his word...Thanks Again Seth!
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21 Jun, 2011 by John
Seth O’Dell was recommended to me by my primary criminal attorney. I was falsely accused of a crime. Mr. O’Dell and my primary criminal attorney worked to get the criminal charge dismissed. A month later, the accuser and a state agency went after one of my professional licenses. Mr. O’Dell led a team of lawyers who defended my license. He won the administrative hearing and my license was reinstated without restriction. Mr. O’Dell proved himself to be a hard working and resourceful lawyer. He was also a very personable and supportive friend as I went through the legal machine. I would recommend Mr. O’Dell and his team to any person needing legal representation.
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04 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
I never intended to need a lawyer but unfortunate circumstance required the assistance from one. Mr. Magnus was kind, straight forward and thorough. Not only did he help me with my DUI charge, he also helped me to get my charges reduced. I hope to never need him again, but if I do, I won't hesitate to use him again.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Kevin
i hired her for a spousal support case,,,she tells me its a slam dunk case,,,no biggy,,,,,all that i got outta of her is the respondent was given the court papers,,,,then she says respondent want to settal out of court,,,i said fine,,,she tells me it will be faster n cheaper that way,,,i never recieved one dime,,,she took my $8300 n ran w/it,,thx
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14 Mar, 2024 by Rg2
Attorney Review/Reference We live in Texas and our son is stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California Our son got a dear john from his wife the day after he was deployed to the Middle East and informed that she had filed for divorce and she would be sending the papers. While deployed he would call to speak to his two year old daughter and read her a bedtime story. He had to leave these on voicemail as his calls a world away were not picked up. He returned to a tumultuous household six months later and divorce proceedings were initiated by his wife they had been married approximately a year and a half. He had to hire an attorney and chose Ms. Mellanie Marshall. Divorce is a terrible and damaging event to all parties and especially when children are involved. Ms. Marshall was very patient in dealing with a highly frustrated client. As a member of the military he could be deployed or transferred at any time. This was a concern as a custody issue and was emotionally crushed that he might not be a part of his daughter’s life. M.s Marshall provided my son a realistic scenario of the possible outcomes but also was able to remain a calming influence to her client. She thoroughly researched the parties involved to come up with her game plan. She was interested in what was in the best interest of her client as well as the child. She was able to work with the opposing attorney to reach what would have been a reasonable accommodation to reduce the turmoil in the little girl’s life as well as the divorcing couple. The opposing attorney was unable to get her client to be reasonable with conditions that would allow both parents to be involved with the child. As a result, the opposing attorney was unable to work with her client and removed herself as her representative. In court Ms. Marshall was competent, thorough and I believe more than reasonable. The outcome that Ms. Marshall achieved was fantastic. My son has a custodial arrangement that allows him to be an integral part of his daughters’ life. She took a toxic situation and turned it into lemonade. My son has renewed his spirit and his daughter is happy. She now has an opportunity to interact with other children her age at the on base child development center. If you want a good attorney in dealing with a messy divorce situation you can’t go wrong with Marshall Law (firm). Robert and Donna Austin, Texas.
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03 May, 2023 by Shawn
Put me at ease from day one by explaining my options, rights under CA Law, and best & worst case scenarios, then quickly working my case as soon as I hired her. While I hope to never need her services again I'm sure glad I found her to handle my divorce and will recommend her without hesitation if ever asked about family lawyers in Kern County. Exceptional attorney in all respects!
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03 Jul, 2024 by Darth vader
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jason esposito
George represented me in a child custody case I’ve seen a lot of negative reviews yet knowbody has a 5 star rating George was great yes he’s a buisy man hard to get ahold of yet is in court everyday. It’s his job I’d hire again he does his job very well in the court room trust me he’s all about his job for his client.His staff was terrific Clair his paralegal was awesome very hard worker and put in a lot of time with my case couldn’t ask for a better team I’d actually hate to go up against him in a court room
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07 Jun, 2024 by Miguel davis
Words cannot express the amount of gratitude we have for George and his team. He was able to get exactly what was needed for my case for the safety of myself and for my children and I’ll be forever thankful. Remember it’s a marathon not a sprint to get the job done right and George did it!!
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What a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You

A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.

If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.

When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:

  • A Victim of Domestic Violence:
    • Filing for a protective order (restraining order): If you need immediate protection from an abuser, a lawyer can help you file for a protective order, which legally requires the abuser to stay away from you and refrain from contacting you.
    • Divorce or separation due to abuse: If domestic violence is a factor in your relationship, a lawyer can help you pursue a divorce or legal separation and ensure that you are protected throughout the process.
    • Child custody and visitation issues: A lawyer can help you secure custody of your children and limit or restrict the abuser’s visitation rights to protect the safety of your children.
    • Filing criminal charges: If you are pursuing criminal charges against the abuser, a domestic violence lawyer can work with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the case is handled properly.
    • Assistance with safety planning: A lawyer can advise on the legal steps to create a safety plan, including securing temporary housing, and taking steps to protect you and your family.
  • Accused of Domestic Violence:
    • Defending against criminal charges: If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, a lawyer can defend your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in court. If possible, the lawyer can help get charges reduced or dismissed.
    • Challenging a restraining order: If someone has obtained a protective order against you, a lawyer can help you contest the order to prevent it from negatively impacting your life, including your employment and child custody rights.
    • Dealing with family law issues: Domestic violence allegations can affect child custody, divorce, and property division. A lawyer can represent your interests in family court and ensure that your parental rights are protected.
    • Avoiding criminal record implications: A lawyer can work to minimize the impact of the allegations on your record, which can affect your employment, housing, and future legal matters.

Hiring a lawyer at the earliest stages can help ensure your rights are protected and the case is handled effectively, whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations.

What Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Do?

A domestic violence lawyer provides various legal services depending on the specifics of your case. These responsibilities often include:

  • For Victims:
    • Filing for protective orders: A lawyer can help victims of domestic violence obtain temporary or permanent restraining orders, which provide legal protection by restricting the abuser’s access to you and your children.
    • Representing you in divorce and child custody matters: Domestic violence often leads to divorce or separation, and a lawyer can represent you in family court to protect your assets, secure custody of your children, and arrange spousal and child support.
    • Criminal representation: Lawyers work with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
    • Safety planning and legal advice: Lawyers provide advice on how to stay safe legally and can assist in securing temporary housing, providing guidance on how to leave abusive situations safely.
  • For the Accused:
    • Defending against charges: A lawyer will build a defense by investigating the case, gathering evidence, and challenging the claims made against you. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
    • Challenging protective orders: If a restraining order has been placed against you, a lawyer can contest the order and present evidence to defend against it, aiming to minimize its impact on your life and reputation.
    • Handling related family law issues: Lawyers help defend against domestic violence allegations in divorce, child custody, and visitation disputes, working to protect your parental rights and reputation.
    • Preventing long-term consequences: A lawyer will work to protect you from the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction, such as a criminal record that could affect employment, housing, and more.

How Are Domestic Violence Lawyers Paid?

Domestic violence lawyers generally charge for their services in different ways depending on the case's complexity and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many domestic violence lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Hourly rates are common for both criminal defense and family law matters.
  • Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as filing a restraining order or defending against a straightforward domestic violence charge, some lawyers offer a flat fee that covers all legal work related to that service.
  • Retainer: In complex cases, such as those involving criminal charges, divorce, and custody disputes, a lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
  • Pro bono or reduced fees: Some domestic violence lawyers provide pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services to victims of domestic abuse who cannot afford legal representation.

It’s important to discuss fees during your consultation to ensure you understand how much your case will cost and what payment options may be available.

How Much Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a domestic violence lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal work required. General cost estimates include:

  • Restraining orders: The legal fees for filing a protective or restraining order typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether the case requires a hearing.
  • Criminal defense: If you’re defending against domestic violence charges, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on whether the case goes to trial and the severity of the charges.
  • Family law issues: Legal fees for divorce, child custody, and other family law issues related to domestic violence can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
  • Hourly rates: Domestic violence lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for their services, with more experienced lawyers charging higher rates.

Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand the total cost of legal services.

Top Questions to Ask a Domestic Violence Lawyer

Before hiring a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the right experience and approach for your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with domestic violence cases?
    Ensure that the lawyer has handled domestic violence cases similar to yours, whether you’re a victim or the accused.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fees, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed cost estimate.
  3. What is the likely outcome of my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Domestic violence cases vary in length, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what might cause delays.
  5. Will I need to appear in court?
    Ask if your participation in court is required, and how the lawyer plans to represent you during hearings or trials.
  6. What steps should I take to protect myself or my rights?
    Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or defending against allegations, ask the lawyer how they will help you navigate the situation.

How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable domestic violence lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for domestic violence experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in domestic violence cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in domestic violence cases.
  • Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for certifications or memberships in family law or domestic violence advocacy groups, such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • For Victims:
    • Details of the abuse: Prepare a detailed account of the abuse, including dates, locations, and descriptions of any injuries or threats.
    • Police reports and medical records: Bring copies of any police reports, medical records, or photographs that document the abuse.
    • Legal filings: If you have already filed for a restraining order or been involved in any legal proceedings, bring copies of those documents.
    • Questions about your safety and legal options: Be ready to ask about the best steps to protect yourself and your family, as well as what legal actions you should pursue.
  • For the Accused:
    • Details of the allegations: Prepare a detailed account of the incident or allegations against you, including any evidence or witnesses that support your defense.
    • Legal documents: Bring any legal documents you have received, such as a restraining order, criminal charges, or child custody filings.
    • Questions about your defense: Prepare questions about the legal process, possible penalties, and how the lawyer plans to defend your case.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation and provide the best possible legal advice.

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