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28 Dec, 2024 by Brian richardson
28 Dec, 2024 by Alec graham
28 Dec, 2024 by J fears
top tier service
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24 Jan, 2025 by Adam ray
24 Jan, 2025 by Leyna lee
Ms. Zarate was very responsive, along with the staff at DGL. My case got dismissed due to the diligence of Ms. Zarate. Very pleased with them.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Erick faustino
Altamente recomendable para los que ocupen de un servicio de la firma me ayudaron muchísimo con mi caso y son muy atentos para ayudarte en cualquier servicio que requieras de la firma
Estoy muy agradecido saludos
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5.0
24 Reviews
4.8
55 Reviews
03 Dec, 2024 by Matthew
Erin reassured me that I would be fine and she also fought diligently for me in the court room would recommend her to anyone
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02 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I am incredibly grateful to have had Attorney Erin Hendricks represent me in my recent trial. From the moment I engaged her services, it was clear that she is not only a skilled lawyer but also a dedicated advocate for her clients.
Erin approached my case with meticulous attention to detail, crafting a strong strategy that effectively highlighted the key elements of my defense. Her preparation was thorough, and she was always one step ahead, which instilled a great deal of confidence in me.
During the trial, Erin’s ability to articulate complex legal arguments in a clear and compelling manner was impressive. She engaged the jury with a persuasive narrative that truly resonated. Her calm demeanor and strong presence in the courtroom made a significant impact on the proceedings.
In addition to her legal expertise, Erin was incredibly supportive throughout the process. She took the time to keep me informed and answered all my questions patiently, which made a stressful situation much more manageable.
Winning the case was a testament to her hard work and dedication. I cannot recommend Erin Hendricks highly enough for anyone seeking a competent and passionate attorney. She is a true professional who goes above and beyond for her clients.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Alex risinger
24 Jan, 2025 by Adam ray
24 Jan, 2025 by Leyna lee
Ms. Zarate was very responsive, along with the staff at DGL. My case got dismissed due to the diligence of Ms. Zarate. Very pleased with them.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Erick faustino
Altamente recomendable para los que ocupen de un servicio de la firma me ayudaron muchísimo con mi caso y son muy atentos para ayudarte en cualquier servicio que requieras de la firma
Estoy muy agradecido saludos
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15 Jan, 2025 by Tiana peterson
After nine years and three different lawyers, I found Kristen Carr at Varghese Summersett at a time when I needed her the most. Through these years, I’ve learned an important lesson: lawyers are not your friends, nor should they have their own agenda—they are there to litigate for you and your case. That is exactly what Kristen Carr did.
Kristen is not only incredibly skilled in navigating the courtroom, but she also knows how to litigate effectively with a judge and conduct precise, impactful cross-examinations. What truly sets her apart, though, is her ability to pick up on critical details that may seem obvious to me as the client but are often difficult to articulate. She would grasp these nuances and fully understand who and what we were up against.
For the first time in my long and difficult custody battle, I felt validated as a client. These cases are incredibly messy and emotionally exhausting, but every time I spoke with Kristen, I felt a sense of relief. I knew I was in capable hands and had someone genuinely fighting for me.
I will never forget the first time we met. I didn’t even have to step into the courtroom—a place that is both intimidating and highly tense. Kristen walked into the waiting room, handed me papers the judge had signed, and said, “Go get your son.” In that moment, years of fear, stress, and uncertainty melted away.
While I had strong evidence in my favor, I can’t overstate how Kristen’s handling of my case probably saved years of my life. After nearly a decade of fighting with ineffective lawyers, I could finally breathe knowing Kristen was fighting for me and that she truly knew her stuff.
I would highly recommend Varghese Summersett for any type of case you are facing. Kristen Carr, thank you—you have truly helped change my life and my son’s life forever.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Kathryn riley
Warning to anyone tempted to engage with this company: many of their reviews are clearly false (you can pay for reviews or people sometimes have family members leave fake reviews). In addition, they are involved in several lawsuits.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Chichita
Waste of time..
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28 Nov, 2023 by Troy
If I could give Tom 10 stars it wouldn't be enough! He has come to my rescue twice now when other attorneys left me hanging. His knowledge of the law and it's wise application the best your can find.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Yosselin
Handled my case and got the outcome we were shooting for! Him and his staff His staff are knowledgeable and trained very well. They had no problems keeping up with everything. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.
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03 Mar, 2022 by Tommy
To be honest Tom coxx is the best lawyer in Dallas Texas this guy worked miracles on my case he was able to get me 7 years deferred probation after the judge told me 50 years i would highly recommend anyone looking for a super lawyer to stop here you found him this guy is cold as ice the way he handles cases
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11 Feb, 2025 by Robert galbraith
Very pleasant experience with Hamilton Wingo. They always keep your best interest in mind and the communication is never lacking. 10/10 would recommend.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Melissa escobar
I called them to let them know what happened.. they took over and helped me with everything. Anything I needed they took care of. I never had to go through something like this before and I'm glad I picked Hamilton Wingo to help me.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Kevin barb
Brian and his team are the best legal group we have ever worked with. They recently helped us with a complicated business transaction and I could not have asked for better service. Thanks Brian and team!
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01 Mar, 2025 by Carrie boggs
She was so professional and she went over everything that happened to my dad she was very concerned about me and my dad she was the sweetest person ever thank you for everything
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28 Feb, 2025 by Linda fulkerson
Terresa was very professional and answered all my questions.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Mary grace
Really care about what I'm going threw and listens and helps get justice
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24 Jan, 2025 by Julie fonager lind
Great attorneys! I highly recommend The Line law Firm!
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19 Jan, 2025 by Jonathan valle
Thanks for the help
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03 Jan, 2025 by Romansarah guthrie
We have had a great experience working with Michael and his team during the duration of our car accident case. He was diligent, hard working and thorough. We appreciated the communication he provided each step of the way. He worked hard to get us a great settlement for our case.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Robert roberto
Esos abogados no sirven para nada después de un año me dejaron tirado mi cap no lleven sus casos con ellos no se los recomiendo
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21 Jan, 2025 by Sherry wilson
20 Jan, 2025 by Della etheridge
I had a very pleasant experience with Wolf Law PLLC, thanks to Daniel Jimenez. He was very professional, very informative, diligent in his duties. I was referred to this office for the professional and knowledgeable team for my case. As a person that had no experiences with such, Mr Jimenez confidently guided me through the process. I am very confident that my best interest was their top priority. I would recommend Wolf Law PLLC for the best of services to anyone. I cannot express my gratitude for your help and time. I'm tremendously, indubitably, unequivocally, and abundantly grateful for the positive results in the end.
Kind regards,
Della (Etheridge) Madison
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16 Jan, 2025 by Terrie walles
22 Dec, 2024 by Anthony devictoria
Great team. Completely satisfied.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Karla castillo
25 Feb, 2025 by Kv smith
I had a serious mold issue in my home due to defects caused by the builder, which led me to seek legal help from Moster Law Firm. At first, the communication was a bit uncertain, and I wasn’t sure how things would proceed. However, once we received a response from the opposing counsel, Shahriar made it a priority to keep me updated every step of the way.
He regularly checked in through emails and phone calls, ensuring I was informed about any developments in my case. His professionalism and dedication gave me confidence that my concerns were being taken seriously. In the end, I felt supported throughout the process.
I appreciate the effort put in by Shahriar and the team at Moster Law Firm. If you're dealing with a similar issue and need a firm that will fight for you while keeping you informed, I would recommend them.
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21 Feb, 2025 by Crystal tate
My lawyer is very helpful and understanding and helpful.we appreciate Mr. Shahriar navai.
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14 Feb, 2025 by Amanda mills
Shahriar has been great to work with. He is responsive and great with follow up!
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30 Apr, 2019 by Johnny
Attorney Elliston is the consummate legal professional with a stellar reputation to add and decades of a winning record in criminal defense work experience to match, frankly, he is the real deal.
What I liked most about having Mr. Elliston as my attorney was how I didn't have to be my own lawyer - on the job training, at fighting my own case, not good. I never left his office confused nor feeling like I’m stupid or as if he didn't really listen or hear me, but more importantly - he proved over and over again to be a staunch defender and supporter of my innocence and as my lawyer, he didn’t let anyone else forget it - not even me, in other words - he’s not going to allow you to hold your head down, he makes you feel like now that he’s onboard, your chances just increased 100% so hold your head up high! It’s little things like that that meant the world to me.
I liked that Mr. Elliston was also patient with me, once a very nervous and confused client, he was compassionate and understanding, often knowing exactly how I would be feeling throughout this situation and helping me to overcome the doubt. He would always remind me that he was on my side and that we are in this together. He just took over! He was good at “exposing the other sides hand & helping me to understand the prosecutor’s/accuser position and what they’re most likely up to in cases like mine and why the system works like this or like that, etc.!” So many reasons I chose to hire him - he told me to go back to work, to take care of my health and to start eating again, to stop worrying and go back to living life and enjoying my family and to now “let him go to work on my case”. He would often get me to relax by saying “you told me the truth, you gave me all that I've asked of you, we fully understand what the plan is and now let me go and show you how we're going to fight this thing”! We’d talk and strategize, then we’d talk more and again find more to be uncovered and analyzed, and then researched, always in constant communication with me - all efforts were always leading towards our strong end game. And throughout this process, not only did I witness how very detailed oriented he is but I soon came to realize what a great a communicator I had in my lawyer. And not to mention how his people skills shined through when we began to build a coalition of friends and advocates/witnesses to help with my case.
He went to work - on my case, never making me feel as if he had “a ton of other things do!” He pushed on, perseverance, creative thinking and just flat out persistence - he didn’t let up and he doesn’t let up until he gets what’s best for his client!
My case was no-billed and I eventually got my record expunged. I can’t thank Mr. Elliston enough - he's my friend. I've made sure that my friends and family have is number on hand.
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29 Apr, 2019 by Vicki wreyford
Mark is an outstanding attorney. He is very professional and knowledgeable in representing his clients. He always researchers the best outcome for all his cases. He is Board Certified in criminal law and has an outstanding reputation. He successfully handled our case with expertise and produced the outcome we expected.
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29 Apr, 2019 by Christi
I hired Mark Elliston for a DWI case for a family member. He went over and above to get the best possible outcome. We were so happy with his professionalism and his constant communication. Mark has a great reputation in the legal community that is very well deserved. I would and do recommend him to anyone with any legal issues.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Terrie walles
22 Dec, 2024 by Anthony devictoria
Great team. Completely satisfied.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Karla castillo
02 Aug, 2023 by Tomas
Ken & Brittany were more than just my legal representation; they were my guiding lights during a challenging time. Their expertise, compassion, and unwavering support not only helped me through my legal troubles but shaped my life in profound ways. I'm deeply grateful for their efforts and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help.
Best,
Tomas Nieves
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25 Mar, 2022 by Scott
Kenneth Ray Moore Jr.
I can’t speak highly enough about the services I received from Attorney Kenneth Moore. He has been working my child custody case(s) for over three years and his service exceeded my expectations. Any time I needed him was there for me. Mr. Moore guided me through process after process with a professionalism and kindness that was unexpected but cherished. I always felt comfortable around him. Kenneth went out of his way to make sure that I as a client had everything I needed as far as Court room prep, the wind down information process afterward, what was still to come and what we both needed to be ready for.
The end result was exactly what we wanted and what I expected from Mr. Moore. I can’t offer more than to say as an Attorney Kenneth Moore is above the pale and a wonderful human being to boot!
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13 Oct, 2015 by Micah
I have worked with Michael Granata for several years now as my attorney through my divorce and with subsequent child support and visitation hearings. Mr. Granata has continuously showed professionalism and courtesy to me throughout our dealings. He is a strong litigator with a backbone to fight for his client. I felt comfortable and well-informed throughout each process with Granata. I would highly recommend Michael Granata for family law and divorce legal representation.
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23 Feb, 2014 by Naheed
Mr Arnold is a an excellent attorney. Due to his expertise and professionalism in the court room, I was found Not guilty in a bench trial for a 3rd degree felony DV charge. I acted in self defense but had to prove it and he made sure I received the proper justice. He was very supportive and caring throughout the whole process. If you want an excellent lawyer that will care about you and fight for your rights then hire Mr Arnold and you wont regret.
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08 Aug, 2012 by Matt
I was a client of Mr. Arnold when he helped me with a Class C Misdeamoner Assualt by Contact charge in Dallas, TX. The accuser was a disgruntled ex of mine. She had fabricated a story and produced fabricated pictures to the jury. Mr. Arnold was able to pin-point her lies and bring logic to the table. He argued that I acted in self-defense (which I did, but had to prove) and his closing was fantastic. The jury didn't take long to render a verdict of not-guilty!!!
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16 Aug, 2011 by Jerry
Mr. Arnold represented me in a false claim of domestic violence case against me that was filed by my soon to be ex wife. Although it sometimes took him a while to give me an update on my cases status, he always returned my calls in a reasonable amount of time (I'm impatient and want instant gratification).
We had to take the case to a jury trial, and he was superb. the jury was out only a few minutes before returning a not guilty verdict. My wife was a terrible liar and he savaged her on the stand, but seemed to do it in such a pleasant and subtle way that he came across as the reasonable guy.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Robert roberto
Esos abogados no sirven para nada después de un año me dejaron tirado mi cap no lleven sus casos con ellos no se los recomiendo
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21 Jan, 2025 by Sherry wilson
20 Jan, 2025 by Della etheridge
I had a very pleasant experience with Wolf Law PLLC, thanks to Daniel Jimenez. He was very professional, very informative, diligent in his duties. I was referred to this office for the professional and knowledgeable team for my case. As a person that had no experiences with such, Mr Jimenez confidently guided me through the process. I am very confident that my best interest was their top priority. I would recommend Wolf Law PLLC for the best of services to anyone. I cannot express my gratitude for your help and time. I'm tremendously, indubitably, unequivocally, and abundantly grateful for the positive results in the end.
Kind regards,
Della (Etheridge) Madison
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16 Jan, 2025 by Pedro ortega
If you want someone that won’t defend you properly or be prepared for your case go ahead and hire this guy. My brother is serving 60 years because of him. Didn’t prepare him for the case. Didn’t cross examine the witnesses well enough. Gave my brother a positive outlook on the case, as if things were going his way, but weren’t. Should have advised a plea deal after knowing how poorly he was defending him.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Tommy brooks
Angela is amazing! She made acquiring our trademark easy! She was thorough and handled everything with very little involvement from me! She’s definitely a pro!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Mehdi tihani
Angela was extremely helpful, showcasing her deep knowledge and quick responsiveness. Friends in the marketing industry have spoken highly of her, and I can now see why. She really knows her stuff. I highly recommend working with Angela!
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28 Feb, 2024 by Jhall0296
This is truly the best lawyer anyone could ever get. My ex had already filed papers and It was Friday when I met and retained Steve. I had court the following Thursday. I was very skeptical as many are when getting a attorney. Steve worked quick and fast. He filed things promptly and quick. I would recommend him to anyone that I know. I am impatient and probably wasn't the easiest client to deal with. Steve was their every step of the way. He explained exactly what was going on every time something would happend and exactly what to do. If you listen and follow what he says then it will go in your favor as it did mine. My custody situation was exhausting and lasted almost 2 years. I got in the end exactly what I wanted. His prices were very reasonable as well. He has been a lawyer forever and has seen it all as he did in my case. I suggest be honest and straight forward and tell him what you would like your outcome to be and he will tell you what to do to make it happen. His assistant Lisa is the sweetest lady ever. If he was busy then she would call and let me know things immed. I couldn't say enough great things about these people and how much they helped my family and children out. Thank you again!
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16 Jul, 2019 by Joven
I have used mr. skinner on numerous occasions and as the title says, Magic and Miracles....there are a good number of good attorneys but Mr. skinner is GREAT !!!! He tells you like it is like it or not, but you can be sure what he tells you is the Truth....Straight and to the point !!!! and he operates with total efficiency and Precision....
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09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Steve is a good and decent man. I asked him a favor and he did it for me. Not your typical greedy selfish lawyer.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Arianna
Mr.Engle took my case the night before my actual court hearing. Not only did he take my case with very little time of notice, he also fought and gave me what I asked for in my divorce and child custody case. He us such a wonderful person. Intelligent and professional. I'd definitely recommend him to anybody needing legal assistance.
Thank you sir, for standing by me in my times of need. You're so awesome!
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07 Jun, 2016 by Brittany
I met with Mr. Engel during my free consult. I paid $100 to his firm and he informed me that he may be able to assist with getting my money returned from a debt resolution company. They kept all paperwork. I've called the office since then, on numerous occasions, and the receptionist takes a message and informs me Mr. Engel will contact me. I've still not received any type of communication from this law firm. I won't be hiring them.
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13 Apr, 2012 by Tj
Mr. Eric Engel is by far a cut above, to say the least. I was represented or should I say misrepresented by several others that worsened my case considerably and severely. . I had nothing but blatant rip offs and liars until I met Eric.
Eric is in the know, straight up and gets on it. He is a highly intelligent Attorney who knows how to get the job done right! I am always treated with the utmost in respect and Eric takes the time to really understand your situation and most importantly, HE CARES and has HEART!
If your looking for a razor sharp, competent and caring Attorney, look no further, THIS IS THE MAN FOR THE JOB ! ! !
(5) STARS ALL THE WAY !
Thank You for an ongoing job well done Eric!
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20 Apr, 2018 by Christian
I was a former client of Gary redman! I strongly advise NOT hiring him for ANYTHING! My Case was the first one in 9 years , I believe, to be overturned in Collin County for Innefictive Assistance of counsel. Gary Redman was my counsel when I was charged for an Agg Assult causing SBI. (A fist fight). We went to trial, he did not advise us well at all in any capacity nor listen to what we needed him to do, and I got 15 years because of his ineffectiveness. After two years my case was overturned due to his ineffectiveness and relief was granted on the whole trial not just punishment.
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12 Apr, 2018 by John
Do not let Gary Redman handle your case if it is serious. I hired him because George Milner told me he could handle my sons aggravated assault charge in Collin county. We went to trial unprepared and lost. My son was sentenced to 15 years! I paid him 25,000.00 to try the case but he did almost nothing that we asked. He kept saying it will be alright. Well I really learned an expensive lesson. I spent many times the amount I paid to Mr Redman on really good attorney's and experts. We were granted relief from the appellate court when they found that Gary rendered ineffective assistance of counsel. I am told it was the only case that had been overturned in Collin county in 9 years. It takes a really bad attorney to accomplish that. My son is home now and after spending nearly 200,000. To fix the mess, Gary refuses to return my initial fee.
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04 Feb, 2016 by Andrew
"If you are searching for a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dallas or North Texas, look no further! Gary Redman is a brilliant lawyer. He’s very down to earth and easy to talk to. And most import, he is a wizard in trial! Gary was always available when I needed him. He always returned my calls. What I found to be the most attractive when first meeting with Gary is how serious he is about his career. You know right away he takes pride in what he does and has a passion for helping people. Gary listened compassionately and made me feel comfortable. I encourage you to call or email him to discuss your situation. Also, he will meet with you at no cost!!"
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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.
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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:
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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.
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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:
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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:
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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.
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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.
