Lawyers map
>1.7k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
31 May, 2023 by Phil
I hired Mr. Wallin to handle a very important matter. He came highly recommended and the recommendation was correct! He has over 30 years in practice, including time as a prosecuting attorney. All the DA's and judges know him and respect him. That is just who you want reprenting you. He was thoroughly prepared, had spoken to the DA in advance and my case took all of ten minutes for the judge to follow the recommendation of the DA and find in my favor. Mr. Wallin is very personable and knowledgeable. Just what you want in an attorney!
Read more
24 Apr, 2023 by Kelly
David and Jennifer were great they handle my case with the utmost sincerity. they were able to get my case rejected and were always available to answer my questions. I highly recommend David Wallin to any one needing his legal services. Thank you David and Thank you Jennifer!
Read more
22 Apr, 2023 by Brenda
After talking to numerous lawyers, I hired Mr. Wallin to represent my son. I am so glad that I did. He thoroughly listened to our case and understand our difficult position. He was up front and honest about the possibilities we faced. I am happy to say that his firm and Alfred G. were successful in getting 2 charges dismissed and the 3rd one reduced. I worked with Jenni the paralegal who was also very professional and kind. Both Jenni and Alfred always promptly returned emails and phone calls and helped us through this trying time. Kudos to Mr. Wallin office - I cannot thank you enough!!
Read more
04 Apr, 2024 by George
Mr. Daley assisted me on 3 separate occasions over the years, and he recently saved my butt when I needed his help the most. His expertise in the judicial system and experience with the prosecution resulted in the best outcome for me. The worst outcome would have been 90 days in jail, and Mr. Daley was able to reduce the penalties to NO jail time and NO public work service. Mr. Daley was always available to communicate by email and text through the entire 3 month court process. His paltry retainer fee was absolutely worth it, and his professionalism showed during the court proceeding as he handled the judge (I only had to pay administrative court fees, saving me another $1500-2000).
If you want the best possible outcome for your case, hire Mr. Daley and follow all his suggestions. He will support you and save you as he has done for me and countless others.
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Daley is the definition of a professional. He is an expert in his area, super knowledgeable. He is honest and fair, and provides a realistic expectation of what to expect through the legal process. In addition to helping achieve a positive outcome, he truly cared about the individual(s) throughout the process – asking my family multiple times how we were doing as we were navigating our legal situation. You will not regret hiring Mr. Daley!
Read more
21 Mar, 2023 by Daniel
He was not only very knowledgeable of the subject matter, but also a very good listener, showing throughout that he really cared about the person and the accuracy of the facts of the case; those are the advantages of counseling with someone with a a wealth of experience in his field of expertise. His high ratings are no accident, because he helps his clients achieve the best possible outcomes! He really is out of the ordinary, and an example of what lawyering should be when a good caring person happens to be also a lawyer!
Read more
27 Jan, 2023 by Jess
Mr.Bourne was with me for 2 YEARS. He helped fight my DV case and got me a deal that is pretty much unheard of no probation, no time served, fees waved & got it expunged off my record. He’s quick to respond and keeps you up to date on any new information as soon as he gets it.
All you have to do is be patient and submit the required information asap, and he’ll do everything in his power to get you the best deal possible.
Definitely keeps his word.
Read more
11 Oct, 2022 by Sergio
Really good Service , Great job .thank you very much , se los recomiendo es un muy buen abogado
Read more
19 Aug, 2022 by Joe
I was arrested and charged with a felony. When I spoke to my public defender the best option she could give me was to plead guilty for the felony and take 2 years of felony probation. I contacted attorney Bourne and explained my case to him and he got the the charge dropped down to a misdemeanor, unsupervised probation and I didn’t even have to pay any court fees! Thanks Josh !
Read more
19 Oct, 2019 by Matt
I hired Elliot Zarabi and his team to help with my DUI case. He could succeed to change my DUI case to Wet Reckless and magically, reduce my probation from 3 years to 4 month!.
Elliot is a first-rate attorney who demonstrated courage and tenacity in representing us. He listened carefully, he skillfully designed an effective defense for our issue, he presented it to the judge and brought immediate closure to the situation we were facing. Eliot is experienced and practical – he will not waste your time. He has a superior comprehension of the nuances of the law and in-depth understanding of the court system. He is the top-notch captain that every team needs. Thank you for bringing peace back into my life.
Matt
Read more
05 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I came to Elliot for a consultation to handle my 10 year old felony case. I hadn't completed the terms of my probation, none of it, and I was ready to turn myself in. As it turned out not only was my felony probation violation open, but also a slew of smaller warrants for traffic violations.
I consulted with a few different attorneys who were all really great but I decided to go with Elliot and I am very glad that I did.
First he met me on a Saturday which was very convenient. He genuinely seemed to care about helping me. He was honest and upfront, didn't make any promises to give me false hope. Which I appreciated as I knew how serious the consequences were going to be.
Leading up to court there were many times that I had questions about our strategy and Elliot was always available to reply via email, and take my calls. It felt like I was his only client.
In front of the judge where it matter the most, Elliot really came through. When my character came into question, he argued fiercely on my behalf. That's when I was 100% sure that I had made the right choice.
In the end I received my best possible outcome, and I have Elliot to thank for that. Out of 4 cases (1 Felony and 3 Misdemeanors) that he handled for me I received positive outcomes in each. I'm extremely fortunate. Every scenario is obviously different and I can't guarantee your outcome. I can however tell you that you can have a little more confidence with Elliot behind you.
Read more
01 Dec, 2018 by Mrs. green
My husband received a DUI and we were so scared because he drives for a living. I was referred to him by a coworker who spoke highly of him . From the beginning he was awesome!!! You can reach him anytime and any day of the week. He is a very honest person and he makes a stressful situation easy to handle. I highly highly highly recommend him for any DUI case.
Read more
04 May, 2024 by David
We had the privilege of working with Attorney Stefano L. Molea who represented our son, and we couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. Not only did Stefano L. Molea do a fabulous job in reducing our son's sentence with no additional time, but his personal and caring approach throughout the entire process was truly exceptional. We highly recommend Stefano L. Molea as his staff to anyone in need of legal representation. He left our son smiling and completely satisfied.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Stefano is an excellent attorney.
I am very satisfied with his services. Most importantly, he fought for what I wanted.
He is professional and genuine, meticulous, and pays attention to the details of your case.
He is well educated, but grounded and can relate to people and the difficulties they are facing.
I highly recommend Stefano!
Read more
19 Apr, 2023 by Daniel
From our initial conversation over the phone Stefano was extremely knowledgeable and confirmed I was speaking to the right attorney. He was able to schedule me right away for an in person meeting at his office and laid out the frame work of what to expect with my case in detail. He made sure there was no gray area and we would be in communication would any question, or concern arise.
Stefano is prompt, professional, and extremely helpful. I received the best possible outcome thanks to him when so much was on the line for me and my family. No charges were filed, and my case played out exactly how he said it would. Five star review all around, excellent service, very happy client!
Read more
12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Ally Keegan has helped me in two separate aspects of the same case and my experience with her was outstanding each time. Not only did we get the outcomes we wanted, she always communicates quickly and thoroughly, never leaving me feeling lost or confused. I would highly recommend her.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Ally is very easy to work with. She is responsive and on top of things immediately. She explained topics related to my case in an easily understandable way, and I felt confident with her support behind me.
Read more
17 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
My wife of 25 years filed a restraining order against me. I am in my seventies, a retired surgeon, and have never had this kind of legal issue. Ms. Keegan did not start by evaluating my ability to pay but instead listened, clearly comprehended my situation, and agreed to take my case. She is a Jurist with the added outstanding qualities of organization, problem-solving, laser focus, attention, and retention of details, and she responds and adapts to changing circumstances with composure. Her patience elevates her to the highest levels of professionalism, coupled with her analysis, writing, and persuasion skills, will give you great comfort that you are represented by the best.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Danielle parmentier
Attorney Jason Martinez was absolutely fantastic to me and my family throughout my case. He always considered my bottom dollar throughout the duration of the case and the entire staff was always able to help with whatever questions I had. Attorney Martinez not only “won” my case but assured me and walked me through the entirety of it. I’d recommend this office for ANY and ALL family law needs. There’s nowhere else I’d rather be than with these great folks. 15/10 would recommend for anyone else. My case took years to wrap up and there was never a moment I felt that my wants/needs/voice was going unheard. Definitely the best legal service I’ve ever had!
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Rick glenn
I cannot express enough gratitude for RM Law Group for guiding my family and me through a challenging two-year custody battle. Their dedication and expertise were evident from day one. While we didn't get everything we asked the courts for, RM Law Group ensured we secured the most critical aspects that truly mattered to us.
The team was always professional, empathetic, and responsive, making a stressful situation much more manageable. Their ability to navigate the complexities of our case and their unwavering support gave us confidence and peace of mind throughout the process.
Thank you, RM Law Group, for your hard work, persistence, and for fighting for the best possible outcome for our family. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate legal team.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Elise lansford
Jason Martinez and the whole group were amazing. I had a very complicated custody case and they all made feel supported every step of the way. The cost was very reasonable, they all had great communication and more than anything showed me great kindness during a difficult time.
Read more
01 Jul, 2022 by Nelcy carino
I am obliged to post my review since the reviews and comments here has lead me to a right decision of choosing Julia Jayne. She is one of a kind- prompt in answering emails, calls and inquiries, approachable, honest, straightforward, witty, pro active. We’ve only met for a short time, she listened, had genuine concern, and had acted right away. My case was resolved in less than half an hour. And even after that, Julia still reached out when she has concerns. And she only charged reasonable fees. Words are not enough to thank Julia for what she has done. No one would wanna be in a position where you need to consult or hire a lawyer, but sometimes, that is life. Don’t hesitate, consult Julia. From my heart, I highly recommend her.
Read more
24 Jan, 2022 by George
Julia was great, not only was she very responsive but proactive as well. I never had any issues trying to get a hold of her. I would definitely recommend her law firm to anyone else looking for quality work.
Read more
30 May, 2021 by Syl mynx
In our case, Julia got a great outcome by having a great strategy and pursuing it quickly. Julia is very very smart, which you can gather from the other reviews. She also listens, which was key to our case. She listened to us, she listened to the prosecutor, and she used all of the information she gathered. She communicates clearly, and made sure that we understood every step in the process and also the strategy that she pursued so energetically. She was effective at working with the experts that we needed. I highly recommend Julia.
Read more
05 Aug, 2022 by D
Thank you Leyla for helping us at the most difficult time off our lives. My girl's and I are truly grateful !
Read more
02 Aug, 2022 by Julie
Leyla's been my attorney for quite some time! My ex husband is no easy person to deal with and she handled my case like a true pro. She's proactive, professional, she provides clear communication and is honest. She's definitely someone I recommend.
Read more
06 Mar, 2022 by Steve
I had the pleasure to work with Miss Leyla Zerehi to establishing our family trust. Leyla is a very knowledgeable, thoughtful, professional, helpful and caring. I highly recommend her for your needs in family trusts and wills. Thank you Leyla
Read more
01 Jul, 2022 by Nelcy carino
I am obliged to post my review since the reviews and comments here has lead me to a right decision of choosing Julia Jayne. She is one of a kind- prompt in answering emails, calls and inquiries, approachable, honest, straightforward, witty, pro active. We’ve only met for a short time, she listened, had genuine concern, and had acted right away. My case was resolved in less than half an hour. And even after that, Julia still reached out when she has concerns. And she only charged reasonable fees. Words are not enough to thank Julia for what she has done. No one would wanna be in a position where you need to consult or hire a lawyer, but sometimes, that is life. Don’t hesitate, consult Julia. From my heart, I highly recommend her.
Read more
24 Jan, 2022 by George
Julia was great, not only was she very responsive but proactive as well. I never had any issues trying to get a hold of her. I would definitely recommend her law firm to anyone else looking for quality work.
Read more
30 May, 2021 by Syl mynx
In our case, Julia got a great outcome by having a great strategy and pursuing it quickly. Julia is very very smart, which you can gather from the other reviews. She also listens, which was key to our case. She listened to us, she listened to the prosecutor, and she used all of the information she gathered. She communicates clearly, and made sure that we understood every step in the process and also the strategy that she pursued so energetically. She was effective at working with the experts that we needed. I highly recommend Julia.
Read more
01 Jul, 2022 by Nelcy carino
I am obliged to post my review since the reviews and comments here has lead me to a right decision of choosing Julia Jayne. She is one of a kind- prompt in answering emails, calls and inquiries, approachable, honest, straightforward, witty, pro active. We’ve only met for a short time, she listened, had genuine concern, and had acted right away. My case was resolved in less than half an hour. And even after that, Julia still reached out when she has concerns. And she only charged reasonable fees. Words are not enough to thank Julia for what she has done. No one would wanna be in a position where you need to consult or hire a lawyer, but sometimes, that is life. Don’t hesitate, consult Julia. From my heart, I highly recommend her.
Read more
24 Jan, 2022 by George
Julia was great, not only was she very responsive but proactive as well. I never had any issues trying to get a hold of her. I would definitely recommend her law firm to anyone else looking for quality work.
Read more
30 May, 2021 by Syl mynx
In our case, Julia got a great outcome by having a great strategy and pursuing it quickly. Julia is very very smart, which you can gather from the other reviews. She also listens, which was key to our case. She listened to us, she listened to the prosecutor, and she used all of the information she gathered. She communicates clearly, and made sure that we understood every step in the process and also the strategy that she pursued so energetically. She was effective at working with the experts that we needed. I highly recommend Julia.
Read more
01 Apr, 2022 by Erika
6 Year Divorce War… I could only afford Mr. Freed for a couple of years. He would probably kill me for saying this… He continued to support me when I had a questions for the following 3 years while I went to trial. I won! I would not have won without his help. Over the course of the last 6 years The attorneys I have opposed have been some of the most vial human beings. He would have taken them all. The best part is that he’s got tremendous heart. He wins with the heart of a lion instead of the trickery of a jackal. Although I’m sure if needed, he could muster up plenty of the latter as well.
Read more
26 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I endorse the Law Offices of Richard G. Freed, based on the excellent legal representation they provided me in a
very contentious divorce case in 2019. This attorney did everything possible to avoid protracted litigation, but
when it was not possible, he was able to achieve extremely favorable results for me on all disputed issue. I am
extremely grateful and impressed with this Firm and will recommend Mr. Freed to colleagues, friends and family
members in need of a tiger who can walk each client safely thru the jungle of family court proceedings.
My case could have easily ended with disastrous results regarding child custody (involving our special needs
infant); business valuation, income assessment, alleged breach of fiduciary duties, attorney fees and sanction
requests, child and spousal support, against the backdrop of exhaustive discovery demands. Even before the
divorce case began, there were restraining orders filed by both sides on the same day. Before hiring Mr. Freed,
my family was denied access to my son, and I was not allowed to have him overnight or bring him to my home. It
took months to get to the bottom of the false claims against me, and today he spends every weekend with me and a
large loving family.
Mr. Freed knew how to handle the false allegations against me and I have the exact custody and visitation
schedule that works best for my son. Mr. Freed advised me through every stage of the court case. He made
helpful suggestions on parenting and the things I needed to do as a new Dad. Mr. Freed helped me set goals that
would prove useful at trial, and demonstrate that I was a fit and proper parent to be awarded or share custody of
our toddler. Mr. Freed disposed of the restraining orders, he filed my divorce and moved the case along with
confidence. This attorney and his terrific staff were there for me every step of the way, instilling confidence, trust
and sound advice always encouraging me to do the right thing to best protect my interests and ensuring my ex
and her attorneys were not able to bully me no matter how much they tried.
New clients know right away that this attorney is a very capable advocate. He brings nearly three decades of
experience to the courtroom, along with an organized, well reasoned, logical, and effective oral argument when
in court and during negotiation skills out of court. The Law Offices of Richard G. Freed offer serious, no-
nonsense, result oriented family law support on all types of cases in San Diego County for select clientele. If
your case demands the services of a proven winner, equipped with all the tools needed to get the job done, why
take chances? For me, it was one of the most stressful events in my life, and I could have easily lost everything I
worked so hard for all these years. I suggest you strongly call the Law Offices of Richard G. Freed to find out
why this Firm seems to be different from the rest.
Read more
15 Jun, 2018 by Karen
Richard G. Freed was my divorce lawyer in 2010. He did a great job and I couldn't have been more satisfied with his work!!
Richard was calm, well prepared and a gentleman in the office. His legal skills are cutting edge and his demeanor is confident but not arrogant. He cut through the red tape in court like a surgeon. I always felt like he was looking after my best interests. The case ended and I said thank you. Seven years later it became necessary for me to hire Richard again. My ex had not removed my name from our house loan or paid his half of our bills. Richard filed paperwork to enforce the Judgment but never had to argue the case in court because he was able to negotiate with my ex who agreed to sign an Agreement in Richard's office. Despite the divorce I get along with my ex and did not want to fight him in court. Our family were all watching and they worried about us. I never wanted any problems with my ex but was willing to go to court if necessary.
I was grateful and relieved the case was settled and I would not hesitate to hire Richard in the future if the need arises.
Read more
09 Sep, 2020 by Nathaniel
Not to knock my Public Defender, but she had already written me off after a 90 second conversation, and told me I should plead guilty to a deal without asking more than 3 questions. I almost just accepted this, but knew I wasn’t guilty and decided not to be a victim of the system built to protect me.
I first called Decio to ask his opinion on my case, and I immediately felt he was invested in finding out the full details and did not jump to any conclusions. After our brief 10 minute phone discussion, he laid out a few ways he thought the case could go, but offered to meet in person the same day to provide a more in depth assessment. We met at his office, which is very warm and welcoming, and went to a private conference room where for about 30 mins he and I discussed the case, after which he told me how he thought he could best fight the case for me, and that all hope was not lost as the Public Defender had made me feel at my initial hearing. His confidence in me and what I was telling him convinced me he was going to be not only my best chance at a fair outcome, but to deal with someone who looked at me as an individual, not just another case number to get through.
Throughout the case, Decio personally reached out to me at least a dozen times to keep me up to speed, to ask for meetings, info, etc.... I never once had to go looking for him. When he explained something over the phone that I just wasn’t sure or clear about, he always invited me to come meet at the office to work through things, always reassuring.
The longer our relationship grew, the more I could feel him becoming personally attached to my outcome, and it really felt like I had someone on my team who wanted not only the best outcome for the case, but for my life moving forward in general.
If you’re on the fence about whether to hire a private attorney, I can’t say enough good things about my experience with Decio, and am so very certain now making the call to him changed the path my life was headed. With the public defender, I’d be living the rest of my life with a conviction and the stigma and shame for something I wasn’t guilty of. With Decio, NO CONVICTION, CASE DISMISSED! And also, just as important, I don’t feel like a helpless civilian who can be railroaded into guilt, I know that if you have the right help, you can push back!
Thank you again for everything Decio!
Read more
23 Apr, 2019 by Steve j
Beyond grateful for Decio Rangel’s legal help. When I initially called Decio, he was calming, professional, and was able to urgently schedule an appointment to see us. We retained both Decio and Mark for our case.
Throughout the procedure Decio was always available and reachable upon any questions we had. He walks that extra mile for his clients and really shows that he genuinely cared.
He took initiative to contact the law enforcement to handle all legal aspects of our case.
Our case was dismissed thanks to Decio and Mark.
Great attorneys and I would highly recommend this office for anyone in need of a attorney.
Read more
26 Mar, 2019 by Christine
Sou brasileira e estava com muita dificuldade em encontrar alguém para me esclarecer algumas coisas sobre o problema que estava enfrentando, já estava desistindo de procurar quando decidi tentar uma vez mais fiz uma pesquisa no Google e encontrei essa pessoa maravilhosa que é o advogado Décio.
Fui ao seu escritório e para minha surpresa ele fala português o que facilitou muito para mim.
Recomendo e muito seus serviços, um profissional sério, comprometido e honesto. Décio muito obrigada pela sua atenção. Cinco estrelas não são suficientes para avaliar Décio Rangel Jr.
Read more
13 Oct, 2023 by Jason
Philip helped me with my DUI case. His rate was great compared to others and he took care of appearances with DMV and Superior court. He was able to reduce my sentence from 30 days down to 8 days (4 days with good behavior) which I get to serve in Sheriffs Work Program. He knows the judges and DAs and I would highly recommend him to others.
Read more
22 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
My Case was very complicated. Phil was kind enough to explain exactly what was done and also did what I asked. He went to the prosecuting attorney several times on my behalf to ask for a reduction. Even after hearing no over and over again he still asked. I don't know how he did it but somehow he got the reduction. if it wasn't for Phil I would have lost my job,
Read more
09 Oct, 2017 by Mary ann
This was a consultation - he was patient, matter of fact and didnt rush me. I had reached out to so many lawyers only 3 responded and he was the only one who actually took the time to look at case hear what i was saying etc. Im saving money and hopefully will be hiring him
Read more
11 Aug, 2022 by Scot and trina
About twenty years ago, Tony had helped my parents and I get through a challenging criminal case. Achieving the best result possible. But, it is now twenty years later and I am scrambling for an attorney in a family law case. I thought of Tony briefly, but shrugged him off thinking.....he doesn't practice family law. Until, I am now down to the wire and I need representation fast, like now. I am downtown San Diego and I decide to reach out to Tony on a whim. Not only do I locate Tony, I leave a message with his firm briefly explaining the situation. Its a Friday and I am thinking I am toast. The next day, Saturday, and Tony calls and tells me to meet him on Monday to go over the case. I did not even have to ask him one question about fees? is he available, can he be proactive, nothing. It was like such loyalty from his prior work twenty years ago like it was yesterday! He did not miss a beat. He was on it from hello and went on to win with the best results possible. I guess I am trying to say that Tony is so good and with it for his clients that he responded just like the twenty years did not even exist. He operates today like he did twenty years ago. And he has been through a hell of a lot since then. Tony is my attorney for life! No questions asked. The best in his class. There is no one better, period !! I rest my case.
Read more
28 Apr, 2022 by Kelly
I have never heard of a divorce is traumatizing or as messy as my own. I was devastated by the unfair and untrue allegations my ex brought to the court and the resulting financial, custody, emotional and mental battle that ensued. Tony met with me the same day I contacted him and assured me he would always tell the truth even if I didn’t want to hear it. I was not at all prepared financially for this divorce and we worked out a very reasonable payment plan. The constant onslaught of paperwork, emails, Serving notices and phone calls were very overwhelming but Tony was able to take care of everything for me and simplify the process in a situation I thought would never resolve. Once the dust settled and I felt emotionally and mentally ready to represent myself Tony graciously shared the pros and cons of my decision and we came to an agreement that I could handle the rest on my own. I would highly recommend Mr. Solare to anyone facing an extremely difficult divorce with high conflict and mental and emotional trauma involved.
Read more
27 Apr, 2022 by Chuck
I can’t thank Mr. Solare enough, he made my stress of my divorce disappear.
Tony is extremely honest, up front and open, He really does cater to the people he is representing. I highly recommend him to anyone I need of his services, he’s so honest he refunded me over a thousand dollars of my retainer. Great honest man. Thanks Tony.
-Chuck B.
Read more
02 Nov, 2022 by Norma
Steve got my case settled quickly and efficiently. Have worked with him on more than one case, would recommend to anyone. Very knowledgeable and a lovely person. Laura his paralegal is a great compliment to Steve.
Read more
01 Jul, 2022 by Nate r
Going through divorce is stressful, but I can tell you that Steve Murphy represented me over the course of nearly ten years and I can't imagine having navigated the courts without him. I cannot recommend him highly enough. He has fought and won all of the large battles and countless small ones resulting in me having nearly 100% physical custody of my two young boys. Steve Murphy is experienced, insightful, compassionate, and direct. And by "direct", I mean that he would let me know when I wanted to run down a path that we would most likely lose-- which saved me time and money.
Read more
06 May, 2021 by Joey
I can not begin to express how appreciative I am for the level of service and support I have received from Steve Murphy and his outstanding paralegal, Laura Romero. Steve came highly recommended by a close friend of mine that was going through a very difficult divorce. I already heard about the miracles Steve and Laura pulled off in his case before I was even looking for representation for my own difficult divorce.
My divorce went straight into the frying pan from day one with not only needing to retain Steve to represent me for my divorce but also for the nefarious restraining order my spouse filed. Not only did this pour gasoline on an already difficult situation, but it was also compounded by the fact my custody with my 15-month-old son was in severe jeopardy. Lucky for me, not only is Steve a seasoned family court veteran, but he has extensive criminal case experience that came in handy to defend my DVTRO. As you can imagine, this has been a terrifying time in my life, and I have only been able to keep my composure because of the phenomenal work Steve and Laura have done on my case. They have already won a few battles in my DVTRO and saved my custody with my son. We still have more battles to work through before the DVTRO is dropped and the divorce becomes final, but I have only been able to sleep better at night knowing I have Steve and Laura here to help me through this challenging time. If you want high-quality representation with a seasoned successful attorney, you are in great hands with Steve and Laura.
Read more
18 Jan, 2023 by Danielle
Sherine has been an enormous help to me during a high conflict and difficult time. She is both professional and incredibly thoughtful and I am so grateful to her for her understanding and patience with her clients like myself. She makes me feel safe and taken care of. She has invested personal time in reaching out to me to ensure things are going smoothly with my case and problem-solve whatever comes my way. I can't say enough good things about her. She's got you covered on the legal side of things, but also just makes you feel like you're being genuinely cared for by a friend. She is strong-mannered, detail oriented, and I've heard her be compared to a shark (in the best way) while in court. I also appreciate how strongly she advocates for those having trouble fighting for themselves. I can only hope that more people who are struggling find her because she is such an incredible resource.
Read more
17 Mar, 2021 by Adam
How do you beat the best offense? By paying attention! Having a keen eye with a quick response. In my case, I got lucky to have an attorney who actually cares about me and the best interest for My family. Best part about Sherine is that she will quickly find the hidden secrets Lingering in the dark. Don’t be shy or scared to tell her everything. That’s why she’s there. To protect you. To help you. To be your shining light at the end of the tunnel. Don’t go to war with this attorney. YOU’LL LOSE.
Read more
20 Feb, 2019 by Tamilla
I called Sherine's office completely out of hope and at a loss for what step to take next. I was immediately comforted by her wonderful and compassionate office staff who have been always been extremely helpful and supportive. Sherine passionately cares about her clients and uses her extensive legal experience to do everything she can to put you at ease. Despite every curveball that was thrown in my Child Custody/ DV case, Sherine and her staff have always been persistent, knowledgable and handled my case with a sense of urgency. I am forever grateful for the help, support and feeling a safety that I felt after choosing Sherine's office to represent me.
Read more
28 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Having Stephen represent me in my Child Custody case was the best decision I have ever made. His professionalism, attention to detail and knowledge, let alone his high moral character and ethics, helped me win my case for my son at a time when I almost lost all hope. I would recommend Stephen Kaufman to any parent looking for a hard-working sincere professional lawyer who truly cares about his clients and the children they are trying to protect.
Read more
25 Jul, 2015 by Dan
Stephen helped with a case my ex wife brought to OCCS after 30 years falsely claiming I owed back child support. He was very thorough and explained everything to us on our level. His presentation in court with all of the facts and his knowledge I believe helped make a quick decision by the court in our favor.
Read more
07 Apr, 2015 by Erin
Steve is a true professional. Steve represents his clients with integrity and is upfront and honest. Steve represented me during a separation with my wife but our goal together was to save our family and find a solution that did not include divorce. Steve believes in preserving the family and was awesome throughout our proceedings eventually earning the respect of my wife which ultimately led to saving our marriage. Steve was very empathetic during the process and I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more
19 Nov, 2023 by Batjargal
He dismissed our speeding ticket. Communication was great, was keep updating while process via email and explaining every single detail. Happy to cooperated with them.
Read more
18 Sep, 2023 by Adam
Richard was great. Within a week my misdemeanor traffic ticket was reduced to just a traffic ticket. Months later, it was reduced to traffic school.
My client had a bench warrant for not showing up to court. Richard made the whole thing go away, not even traffic school in his case.
Read more
31 Jan, 2022 by Ricco daniels
Mr.Grant represented me on a (out of lane) violation while officer was present and got citation dismissed.Completely satisfied.
Read more
18 Sep, 2023 by Marcos
Called Mr. Melnick,
He explained everything to me, what my next steps were and assisted me with the whole legal process. I can't say enough about how honest and upfront he was with me and was very professional the whole time!
10/10 would recommend to anyone. no need to shop around, money well spent!
Read more
20 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Dan handled my felony case with exceptional care and effectiveness. For my case, Dan performed really well at key inflection points, often showing creativity and thoroughness in his arguments. I was left feeling that I had just the right attorney for my situation, and the fact that Dan is highly respected by judges as honest and ethical, played into my very successful result. I can't recommend him highly enough.
Read more
27 Aug, 2018 by Emiliana
I came to Dan a few times and I want to say it was the best decision I've made. He was very straightforward with me and the best part is the many years of experience he has. He was able to pretty much guess the outcome of my case from just our first consultation. He's a great guy and very easy going and caring!
Read more
24 Jun, 2024 by Elite motorcycle llc
Melissa is the best attorney, I recommend everyone that’s in need to go see her. Always handled my stuff efficiently and effectively until the very end.
Read more
29 Dec, 2023 by Ka wai wong
I contacted Melissa over a speeding ticket in a neighboring county. Although she does not work on minor traffic violations in that county, she was super nice and very kind to give me advice. She listened to me attentively and understood my concerns well. She even shared her own experience with me to make me feel better! She explained to me in great detail the potential consequences and the subsequent procedure. I am very grateful to her help and advice. Thank you very much again! Giving my strongest recommendation for Melissa here!
Read more
16 Jul, 2023 by Connie ray
When we were looking for an ethical attorney to represent our son, it was a daunting task. We interviewed many attorneys, but after meeting and speaking with Matthew Izzi, I knew that he was the one to represent our son's defense. I felt he would approach his defense with integrity and respect for our son, and he did. Matthew doesn't fall into believing false accusations of articles written, community pressures and opposing counsel stacked charges, he develops his defense based on facts, based on the truth for his client, our son. He assured our son of his defense plan and collaborated with our son on the best way to develop his defense strategy. Matthew's demeaner in the courtroom is professional, no matter how much opposing counsel tries to pull his strings, he remains calm and forthright. He addressed injustices that were made against our son and explained many facts, of the truth, that sheds a bright light for the jury to see and that light doesn't go out, for that is what the truth does, it shines bright. Matthew gave us hope, something the DA tried to destroy. The Shasta legal system is a process of delays, unnecessary jail time --for our son, questionable decisions made by appointed judges, unfair bail , this is 'not' a justice system in our point of view. This was frustrating for us and for our son. We experienced many injustices during my son's trial by opposing counsel and Shasta Sheriff dept. So you need a good lawyer when you are in Shasta's court system. If you are looking for a good defense lawyer consider Matthew, he cares for his client's well being, despite the uphill battle he faces when dealing with the opposing counsel's unprofessional behaviors, different judges and Shasta Sherriff/Probation dept., etc.. One more comment, if you read anything written via yelp, social media or in the newspaper, that is negative about Matthew's character, by certain people in Shasta county, don't believe them, they can't deal with Matthew being so good at his job and believing in our son's account regarding what really happened. God knows the truth and the yappers negativity against my son, will be dealt with by God.
When stacked charges are brought up against your loved one, you need an attorney who will represent your loved one, in an aggressive, professional, intelligent and smart manner. The highlight is-- you need Matthew who will believe in you and will work diligently to prove your loved one's innocence. Matthew helped me understand an area, that I wasn't familiar with, the legal system, this also helped our son fight the system for his innocence and to try to get through the difficult situation. Matthew's staff is friendly, listened to me through many phone calls regarding my frustration with the Court process, the DA and Sherriff dept. So consider Matthew for your defense, this will be the most important decision of your loved one's life.
Read more
03 Jun, 2022 by Andre
HIghly recommended. We contacted Nico to help a relative through some minor warrants he acquired. Mr. Capozzi went to court on our behalf as we are in Los Angeles and the warrants and charges were removed. If you or a family needs help, I would strongly recommend you reach out to this attorney for help. Thank you Nicholas.
Read more
02 Dec, 2021 by Amy
Mr. Capozzi is an excellent attorney. He is fair, respected, and will work hard to get you the outcome you want.if you need an attorney, look no further.
Read more
11 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I am very thankful that I found and hired Mr. Capozzi. I've never gone through anything like this before. Mr. Capozzi was compassionate and professional.
Read more
04 Sep, 2019 by Andrew a.
Great and smart attorney. He will fight hard for your case. If there is any small error in your report or procedure he will find it. After a year of fighting my case he got it thrown out. 99% of attorney's take your money and it will be VERY HARD to get a hold of them. You literally get responses from him in minutes (during business hours, i never tried calling him in the middle of the night.) I can guarantee he will fight hard for you.
Read more
29 Nov, 2018 by David
Hired Mr Ramos for a DV case. He was very punctual and respectful of my case and personal concerns. Will recommend his services to any friend or family member if they find themselves in a unfortunate situation. Thanks Carlos for everything.
Read more
10 Mar, 2018 by Sheila
When we came to Carlos A. Ramos, the case had already been to court several times, and our old Attorney, just wasn’t giving us any positive answers, we literally were doing all the work, But Carlos was referred to us by a friend and let me tell you, from the very first phone call we made, he took the lead! He had us come in that very same day, offered direct answers to ALL of our questions, and every question was answered and done in a way we would be able to understand, he truly took care of us! As Mothers, our Children are our hearts and soul, and he understood this and was dealing with someone’s Son , who’s life could be altered, who had rights!! This was a case that had gone on for over two years!! Carlos never seemed exhausted or concerned that it would not turn out the way it did! We settled before going to trial! Now my Son can continue to live a righteous life and continue to hold his head up high! We all have rights!! But sometimes we need an excellent Attorney to handle them and offer counseling of how to go about it! Carlos A Ramos is definitely the Best Criminal Defense Attorney, to have at anyone’s defense!! We truly can not say one negative thing that we experienced with this knowledgeable Attorney!! GO Carlos A. Ramos!! ( even the courtroom felt peaceful on that day of completion of this long tiring journey ) Thanks to Carlos!
Sincerely, Sheila
Read more
09 Mar, 2021 by Maricruz
I wouldn't have any other attorney for my case and just because you are in a different county example san Bernardino but your case goes to Riverside you can still contact this attorney Eric Youngquist he works for all California it doesn't matter where your case is where you are located you can count on him , a council stated to me once why did I contact an San Bernardino county attorney if I'm in Riverside i clearly stated to the council I chose my attorney and it doesn't matter what county he is licensed for all California all the way up to San Francisco to all the way down San Diego he will be there for you , just like he was there me.
Read more
21 Jul, 2020 by Antoinette
My family needed advice on an incident because we had no real knowledge of the law or its protocol. This lawyer followed up immediately with a call and was well informed of the law. He provided relief and reassured our family of our rights which was a blessing.
Read more
14 Mar, 2020 by Johnny
I hired mr. Eric youngquist for a DUI case. I was very nervous it was the first time I'd ever been arrested. Mr. Youngquist got half of my case dropped and reduction in fees as well. He was very professional and very effective and I would recommend him to all my family and friends.
Read more
01 May, 2019 by Claudia
I had almost lost custody of my Son but Shamika was able to prove to the courts that I was an outstanding mother who had just been through a rough spot in my life. She was very professional and extremely caring. I would recommend her to anyone who is in a unique situation as mine.
Read more
04 Nov, 2017 by Stevie
Working with Mrs. Sookdeo was a valuable experience. She's not one to sugar-coat anything, unlike a other attorneys. I really appreciated her attention to detail and her ability provide an honest and well formulated opinion. She greatly aided me in my child's custody case, and I would absolutely recommend her to anyone seeking a reliable, intelligent and thoughtful attorney.
Read more
03 Jul, 2017 by Timothy
Shumika is an amazing attorney. She is not out to do anyone dirty or lie about anything. She was very honest with me and I was with her. She had great communication with me during my whole divorce case. Even when my ex's attorney failed to even educate themselves on the case and attempted to play dirty pool, Shumika stood her ground on what was right and didn't stoop to their level. Shumika and I were a team on everything, working together like a well oiled machine. I recommend her to anyone in need of an attorney. Hopefully i never need her services ever again but i know where to go if i do. Thanks again Shumika!
Read more
22 May, 2017 by Jonathan
Byron was everything my family needed and more! My family member was charged with very serious felony robbery charges. He was there every step with us and was always ready to explain the next steps. In the end he resolved the case in a way I didn't think was possible. Well worth every penny we paid him!
Read more
18 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I had a reckless driving ticket with some other DUI complications. I found Byron on Yelp. He was quick to respond to my request for help. He gave me some idea of what to expect and the potential results. He knew his stuff. They were scary but not guaranteed. I didn't like the idea of going to jail for six months and that was looming over my head. He was able to get the charges and fines reduced and keep me out of jail. Putting Byron on my team was definitely a good decision. I recommend him highly!
Read more
16 Mar, 2016 by Gary
I was pulled over for minor speeding and was hit with two other correctable offenses in the same stop (the officer was having a bad day). I hired Byron to defend me and he did an amazing job. He was courteous, knowledgeable, and organized. I call to check-in a few days before my court date and he was still aware of my situation and had all the facts straight. The other reviewers here are right and Byron surely deserves the 5-star rating. I would definitely recommend him to my friends or anyone else if you need legal help in NorCal.
Read more
14 Dec, 2020 by Richard
I wanted to thank Andrew Mckewon at Harris Family Law for the incredible work. I was referred to Andrew by a close friend. As many in similar situations can attest to, having to go through any family law situation can be harrowing and stressful. I had spoken to several attorneys who were all competent, but Andrew was the only one to take the time to listen, understand and reassure me that this matter would be taken care of.
Andrew's communication and transparency are excellent. He is pragmatic, setting expectations that always made me feel optimistic about my matter; as well as taken care of. He will always go to bat for you and he's an attorney you can rely on to get it done.
Thank you!!
Read more
21 Nov, 2018 by Jamal
Andy and I have known each other since the first year of law school. He has always been extremely professional and thoughtful in his approach. What makes him an amazing family law attorney is his ability to place himself in his clients position and effectively communicate to their needs. I recommend Andy to the highest degree.
Read more
13 Mar, 2018 by Tyler
Andrew is not only a great communicator, he's an excellent listener. He's always kind, compassionate, and sympathetic to his client's needs. He's very knowledgeable in all areas of his field and I have complete confidence in him to handle any of my future legal needs, as well as refer him to anyone in need of a skilled and talented family law attorney.
Read more
08 Oct, 2020 by Samantha
Scott was so great to work with. I received a dui while I was visiting California from Nevada and he was able to get everything handled for me with me being out of state through the whole process. He also was able to get my dui dropped down to a wet and reckless which was so amazing. If you live in the central coast area I definitely recommend Scott!!
Read more
24 Feb, 2018 by Sah
I contacted Scott after a through search for help in my DUI case. Passionately, he helped me very much with making me calm at the beginning, since I was confident that I’m in good hands, now! Patiently, he took my case all the way with as much as possible good results. Scott discussed various options all through the process and provided me with his recommendation when I asked him for. With high level of legal knowledge and experience, I did observe, that he tried any way for my case to end with best ending. I would definitely not hesitate to ask for his help, again, or recommend him to my family, friends or anybody who needs legal help.
Read more
29 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Scott responded to an urgent consultation request, and was very helpful clarifying important questions and pointing me in the right direction.
Read more
09 Jun, 2021 by Andrea
Michael Chastaine came in my life when everything seemed to go against me.
I got indicted by the FBI on a federal case in the Eastern District of California.
Let's say I am not the individual that put too much trust in authorities and lawyers.
Little did I know that there are stand up individual like Michael still out there.
In many occasions he took time out of his personal life to meet with me, help me and guide me through such a difficult process.
Not only he represented me through the whole journey, but went far beyond his duty as criminal defense attorney to assure I would get the best outcome.
At the end what made him an outstanding attorney is the fact that he is a human after all, he understand that we all are and treat you like one.
He has a solid reputation within the federal system and maintain good relationships with every moving part of the government.
With his experience he was able to come out with the best strategy and guidance to give me the best possible outcome in my case.
Highly recommended criminal defense.
Read more
26 Apr, 2021 by Kellen
Hired the Chastaine Law Firm after speaking with at least 15 different offices that didn’t want to work on my case. From the moment Liise answered the phone, I could tell this was the place I wanted to represent me. Jessica and Michael were both very knowledgeable and patient with me. Jessica was extremely positive from the first conversation. It made me comfortable all throughout the process. My motion was granted after 11 years! Thanks again to the Chastaine Law First. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney. They changed my life for the better!
Read more
19 Jan, 2020 by Thomas
Michael Chastaine and his staff are amazing. I had the chance to work with two of his lawyers, Dominick Welch and Jay Manning, who are both great lawyers as well. I was dealing with a stressful time in my life and their hard work greatly lessen that. Ultimately, they were able to get my case dismissed. TWICE. I am a Veteran and there are certain legal avenues that can be taken for Veterans. The Chastaine Law Office put forth the time and effort to explore these avenues to give me the best possible results. I am forever grateful to this team and highly recommend them if you ever find yourself in a legal problem.
Read more
10 Jun, 2021 by Sierra
When I was experiencing stalking, Bob was the most empathetic lawyer I spoke with. He and Carolyn Pettifer are very supportive, competent lawyers. They both immediately understood my situation and it really helped, especially when I was trying to serve the legal documents.
Read more
15 Feb, 2021 by Lea
I was represented better than I could have ever imagined. Robert Goodman is very knowledgeable & experienced. My needs were put first and I was treated as a friend rather than a number. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. He was always available and reachable at any given time to answer all of my concerns. He went above and beyond and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn't have asked for a better law firm or attorney. Thank you Robert. You are the best.
Read more
22 May, 2017 by Tai
I would like to thank Bob and his firm for being there for me in a really difficult time. He provided me with great advice and counsel. I worked with one of the members of his firm, Karen, on my specific case and I don't think I could of gotten through this without her wonderful responsiveness and willingness to be an advocate for me. She also handled conversations with the other party that allowed the whole process to run much more smoothly than I had anticipated. I really appreciate Bob, Karen and the wonderful Bob Goodman team. I can't thank or recommend all of you enough!
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in California - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Los Angeles
-
San Francisco
-
San Diego
-
Sacramento
-
Irvine
-
Oakland
-
San Jose
-
Beverly Hills
-
Newport Beach
-
Palo Alto
-
Pasadena
-
Santa Monica
-
Santa Ana
-
Fresno
-
Walnut Creek
-
Long Beach
-
Glendale
-
Encino
-
Woodland Hills
-
Costa Mesa
-
Riverside
-
Redwood City
-
Santa Rosa
-
Menlo Park
-
Santa Barbara
-
Sherman Oaks
-
Orange
-
Torrance
-
Berkeley
-
Westlake Village
-
Burbank
-
Mountain View
-
Carlsbad
-
San Rafael
-
Bakersfield
-
San Mateo
-
Ventura
-
El Segundo
-
Roseville
-
Santa Clara
-
Calabasas
-
Tustin
-
Culver City
-
Stockton
-
La Jolla
-
Huntington Beach
-
Modesto
-
Pleasanton
-
Manhattan Beach
-
Anaheim
-
San Luis Obispo
-
Santa Cruz
-
Van Nuys
-
Sunnyvale
-
Burlingame
-
Fullerton
-
San Ramon
-
Rancho Cucamonga
-
Ontario
-
Salinas
-
San Bernardino
-
Encinitas
-
Napa
-
Monterey
-
Cupertino
-
Fremont
-
Thousand Oaks
-
West Hollywood
-
Los Gatos
-
Redding
-
Redondo Beach
-
Alameda
-
Monterey Park
-
Palm Desert
-
Cerritos
-
Folsom
-
Agoura Hills
-
Chico
-
Visalia
-
Mission Viejo
-
Marina Del Rey
-
Temecula
-
Oxnard
-
Aliso Viejo
-
Laguna Hills
-
Davis
-
Brea
-
Chula Vista
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in California
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Intellectual Property
-
Personal Injury
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Tax
-
Workers Compensation
-
Civil Rights
-
Insurance
-
Consumer Protection
-
Immigration
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Probate
-
Trusts
-
Car Accident
-
Mediation
-
Entertainment
-
Class Action
-
Child Custody
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Domestic Violence
-
Wrongful Death
-
Bankruptcy
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Child Support
-
Elder Law
-
Discrimination
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Juvenile Law
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Debt Collection
-
Employment / Labor
-
Copyright Application
-
Divorce
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Federal Crime
-
Sex Crime
-
Foreclosure
-
Adoption
-
DUI / DWI
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Life Insurance
-
Constitutional Law
-
Education Law
-
Environmental Law
-
Contracts
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Corporate
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
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:
-
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. -
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. -
What is the likely outcome of my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
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. -
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. -
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.
