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20 Jul, 2024 by Julia long
07 Apr, 2023 by Nicole diclaudio
Wow! This is the most amazing, professional law office I have ever worked with. They get the job done quick.
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06 Apr, 2023 by Jon christ
Everything went great. They got me out of a huge jam (my Marriage) quickly. Will definetlly use again for my next Marriage. Quick and easy! Highly recommended.
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04 Jan, 2020 by Christine
For those reading: I went to this firm on a recommendation and a warning that it would cost more than your average lawyer but it would be worth it and I could not be happier! I was divorcing my husband and in the beginning it seemed like an amicable divorce, he as mostly agreeable and we were able to file for an uncontested divorce and with the help of Heather and her team I have a very solid marital separation agreement that is very well written and covers things I did not think of at all. I have seen a few of my friend's separation agreements made up by other lawyer teams, and I will attest that the one written by this team was more extensive than any others I have seen.
Unfortunately I had trusted that my ex-spouse and I were able to keep in the agreement and I went "softer" than I though I needed to. Unfortunately I had to file a contempt of agreement and this law team again rose up to ensure I felt supported and not out of line in what I was seeing. He wasn't paying all the support he agreed to, and he was talking in ways with my children that they shouldn't be in a divorce. Her team filed everything and we found ourselves in mediation with their law team. It was good, I wanted time with my kids, he wanted money, we got through it, the advice the McCabe Russell team had for me was paramount and made me comfortable and confident. I am so much more educated and confident in my matters, and they also ensured that after mediation that all the paperwork was accurate and inline with my wishes. It was smooth and easy. I highly recommend this firm. I worked directly with Hillary and Heather and they were just fantastic, understanding, compassionate and just treated me humanely. Thank you. I will continue to utilize their services should I require them again.
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08 Jan, 2019 by Gina
Without Atty Heather and Atty Emily I don’t have my son with me. Because of them I have peace. I thank God and will continue to pray for them and the family. Therefore, I highly recommend Atty Heather McCabe and Atty Emily Russell to handle your case and you will amaze for the results they will not leave you very supportive lawyers.
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23 Nov, 2016 by Terrance
Contemplating or facing the circumstances of going through family court to do what you believe is best for your child(ren) is one of the hardest decisions that a person may face in life. The concept of having to fight anyone, let alone the other parent, for the opportunity to establish, maintain and/or protect the relationship with you and your child(ren) is a very difficult decision to make. Additionally, being an active participant in your child’s life is the life blood to being a parent and building those life long memories with your child(ren). As such, and while I believe that an amicable solution should ALWAYS be sought first, sometimes the only alternative you are left with is family court.
To that point, I was lead to the offices of McCabeRussell (also referred to as my “Dream Team”) and what a godsend they were and continue to be to me and my family. If I had to sum up my feelings, I would have to say that Heather McCabe, Emily Russell, Anna Sholl and the entire McCabeRussell team are absolutely, hands down AMAZING! And, unfortunately, that still doesn’t fully describe or quantify how unbelievable and well suited of a legal team they are to anyone facing a family court matter.
Before contacting McCabeRussell, I was a frustrated single father facing a system that I believed was stacked against me. As a man and an African American father, I have heard the horror stories of how the family court system is rigged against men and the hell that fathers sometimes have to endure to be involved in their children’s lives when the other party doesn’t share the same sentiments regarding parental involvement. Well, my story started the same way until I pick up the phone and spoke to Heather. I embarked on this journey facing multiple and, at times, ridiculous allegations about my fitness as a parent and access to my son of every other weekend and NO overnights. After speaking with Heather on the first phone call/initial consultation to the standing with Emily and Anna at final verdict being rendered some 14 months later, they were ALWAYS there at every turn, phone call, email, etc. While it was my hope that I would have been able to settle the matter out of court, Heather and Emily prepared me for the possibility of the inevitable – a trial. I hated this option but, realized it was necessary in my case. They helped me (emotionally and legally) navigate several phases of the legal process --- the initial phases of very limited access, fending off protective order attempts meant to further curtail my parental access and abilities, acquired me a three (3) hour temporary hearing to address my lack of access and finally, a trial where they were able to prove my fitness as a father and helped me attain shared physical and joint legal custody.
What I just provided was a snapshot of my own circumstances but, hopefully enough for you to glean why I say this office is my “Dream Team”. Heather, Emily and Anna are tenacious trial attorneys, well versed in all aspects of domestic and family law, compassionate, child focused, attentive, over prepared, organized, responsive and very professional. I was a novice entering this but have since learned that all lawyers are not made alike. Now, while I didn’t get everything I wanted from the court, I can take solace in knowing that McCabeRussell advocated hard as ever to get me a significant amount of time, decision making ability and ultimately, the peace of mind to know that I have a team to fall back on when or if I am ever faced with similar circumstances in the future. In short, I would ONLY recommend McCabeRussell as the law firm to choose if you are faced with a domestic or family law matter.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Samuel ajeigbe
05 Sep, 2024 by Miss kris
01 Jul, 2024 by Darnysha jamison
I am on my 3rd case with them! All have been car accidents hit from behind and the side! This last accident 10/2023 my car was actually totaled 🥴. As usual the team is working hard on my daughter and I settlement. All 3 cases I’ve worked with Yanira and Mr. Lundin himself, I can say I am pleased with the services they provide. Professional and for the most part prompt.
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28 Apr, 2023 by Jaime beezel
I cannot recommend Linda Bush with the Law Offices of Shipe and Bush highly enough. She is professional, smart, honest, realistic, and determined. She’s a smooth operator and that courtroom and fought for me with everything she had. When it comes to divorce and family law, look no further! You will definitely have the best by your side.
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12 Sep, 2022 by Christian sotomayor
Great customer service!
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31 Aug, 2022 by Tina merryman
Wonderful to find someone doing what they were meant to do. When a person can combine intelligence, likely years of education, experience and humanity… it can make an unfortunate situation much smoother. Kevin is a patient, smart, kind and compassionate human being with the intelligence and expertise needed for his type of work. Compassionate office staff, as well.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Teri podsiadlik
Patrick Klemz worked with us on our estate planning and was extremely knowledgeable. He was very responsive via email/zoom and shared a wealth of information that we were not aware of regarding this process. Mike Valenti was outstanding during the signing of our documents. Very thorough guiding us through some difficult decisions. This firm goes above and beyond to make the process easy, efficient and thorough. Highly recommend!
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26 Dec, 2024 by Susan scott
I have used the legal services of Pare & Associates twice in the past and was very impressed with them.
In December 2024, I contacted them a third time. I had a time crunch on a matter pertaining to my Will. Mike Valenti, Senior Paralegal, worked with me on the matter. I could not have been more pleased with the level of service he provided to me. Mr. Valenti asked me the right questions so he could fully understand my needs, listened to what I had to say, and provided me with clear answers to my questions of him.
If you are looking for a law firm, you should consider Pare and Associates. My work with them has largely been in the area of Trust and Estates. Based on that experience, I highly recommend the firm. And Mr. Valenti should you have the opportunity to work with him.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Humayun beg
Horrible lawfirm/ caused me enormous stress to work with them- constant revolving door with attorneys- they switched my attorney 4 times for my case, since attorneys kept leaving and declining to work. In the end Alice Pare kept stating that she does not have time to work on my case, and gave up to my detriment !!
They also concealed the documents/conversations they had with the opposing counsel, despite my multiple requests and kept charging for that !!
No wonder attorney 'profession' is considered the worst profession known!!
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25 Oct, 2016 by Kelly
We hired Kathleen to develop our wills, advanced directives and trust. As a young family, we were not clear what details we needed to include and what was expected of us. Kat was patient, direct, and extremely helpful to us. She made the process relatively easy and helped us to make informed decisions about our future. Her personal service and professional attitude impressed us and we would recommend her to anyone considering employing her services.
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25 Oct, 2016 by Carrieann
As new parents to a young daughter my husband and I felt that it was time to put in writing our wishes should anything happen to the two of us. We employed Ms. McClernan to create and guide us through the process of creating a will, power of attorney, and advance directive. Ms. McClernan provided excellent information in a timely fashion and did not hesitate to answer each and every one of our questions and concerns. My husband and I were extremely pleased with the service Ms. McClernan provided and would not hesitate to hire her again.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Kristen dorn kennedy
Over the course of the past year, Ms. McClernan has become a trusted advisor and ally. She not only assisted me through every step of my separation and divorce, she worked tirelessly to ensure I received the rulings I deserved on both custody and the divorce. She was the perfect balance of calm and steady to my emotional tumult. I couldn't recommend her more highly.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Paige
My divorce was very difficult. My husband hid our assets and had planned to leave me long before he actually let on to me that he was done with the marriage. I felt lost and alone and helpless. I was referred to the Mckeon Law Firm from one of my close friends who used them for her divorce and custody case. I hired Shelly and Jessica to represent me and could not have been in better hands. They were literally life savers. They helped me at every step to see the options available to me and to advise me based on their wealth of experience. They were able to find the money my husband hid from me and negotiated a settlement that I am very pleased with and feel that even though nobody wins in a divorce, I came out of this ordeal feeling secure in my future because of the settlement. Overall, I believe that even though it was expensive, they were worth every dollar. My husband's attorneys fees were much higher than mine and I know he is unhappy with the outcome. I highly recommend the McKeon Law Firm.
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27 Oct, 2019 by Christine
Jessica was my lawyer when I went through a difficult divorce. She always listened and was very supportive throughout the process. Jessica's knowledge and strength were things I admired all throughout the process.I was able to achieve the outcome I wanted with Jessica's representation. I would recommend her to everyone.
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13 Nov, 2018 by Clement
She handled my case very well and every has been done on the a time. I really like the way she contacted my case.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Tao
Don't call this place. They lie on what they will help with on their website and then are dismissive and rude on the phone. Shameful way to treat another human being.
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04 Feb, 2024 by Joy medley
Michael O’Shay was hands down excellent! This was my first experience with the court system so my nerves were in hyper mode. Attorney O’Shay was responsive to every call, answered every question leading up to our court date, and explained the process throughout the proceedings. I never had to wonder what was going on. He was very professional, super prepared, and made sure I was ready as the defendant. He fought for me from the start of our trial to the end. I can honestly say we were victorious because of his hard work, tenacity, attention to detail, and expertise. I recommend this firm and Mr. O’Shay 100%. You are in good hands with him.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Mary wooten
Very friendly staff and quick oil change and discount offered. I was in and out in no time. I will always return there services are excellent
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07 Nov, 2024 by Melissa miller
I cannot thank Kathleen enough for her outstanding support during my case. From our first meeting, she made me feel heard and understood. Her expertise and compassion helped guide me through one of the most challenging times in my life. Kathleen was always available to answer my questions and provided clear, practical advice that made a significant difference in the process. Her professionalism and dedication were evident every step of the way. I truly appreciate everything she did for me and would highly recommend her to anyone.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Dennis badham
Kathleen and her entire team made a tough divorce and custody situation a lot easier. Kathleen was knowledgeable and honest about the entire process, and kept me informed throughout the duration. I highly recommend this group.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Mary ellen jacobs
Kathleen and her staff were integral in the reason why I was finally able to sign my divorce papers this week. She answered all my questions, was kind with difficult messages and even picked me up on morning when I was experiencing a panic attack before a court date. I would recommend her to anyone in MD for divorce. Thank you so much!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Amanda s
I couldn't be happier. Jason and his team have gone above and beyond to answer any questions, look for ways to help fight for me, and I would recommend him to ANYONE!!! I'm going to make sure his name is mentioned any time I hear of something that his practice covers. I worked with he and JR, and I was impressed with how well they handled everything, and follow ups were consistent. If your looking for a team who definitely goes above and beyond, you found it!!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Sugar luxe
Jason Kisner helped me get the money I deserved. It was easy working with him on my accident case. He made me feel like family. His team is very kind and helpful. I enjoyed my experience with Kisner Law. I came back for another accident and the same great experience. I recommend him and his team to anyone who has recently been in an accident.
Tell him Erica sent you 😉
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04 Nov, 2024 by Derek cooper
One of the greats in the DMV. I thank you again for all you have done, feel great now that you help my injury pain get resolved. JK thank you again for all your help.
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01 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
We had a custody case with Mr. Rolle in August of 2017 and we are so happy we hired him! We instantly felt at ease with him. Also, he must have an excellent paralegal on staff. She seems to have done most of our paperwork (under his supervision/direction) and that was great for us! The custody order and other stuff was very well written and because he used his paralegal so wisely the billing to us was far less than we were expecting it to be. It was a huge relief for us. We’d had another lawyer before him who did things badly and was gouging us with the billing, so our final bill from this firm was a huge relief. They deducted the bill from our retainer and returned it in a reasonable amount of time.
Also, when the other party was ready to settle (very much in our favor), because of life circumstances, Mr. Rolle’s Law firm was able to get the new custody order written up very quickly. I think it was only a couple of days and that included some revisions that we sent in after the fact. That was important because we were concerned the other party might change their mind.
We would definitely hire Mr. Rolle again.
Thank you!
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle does not take just any case. Even though he could easily do this to increase his billable hours, that is not his style. He is to the point, and cares about keeping legal costs down. I have recommended this firm to two of my friends and anticipate I will recommend them again if the opportunity arises. He was brilliant in how he drafted the complaint filed against my opponent and fiercely protected my legal interests.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle is professional, kind, and did a fabulous job representing me in my divorce/custody case. He listened to me and worked effectively to get the best resolution for me and my children. Mr. Rolle is also very aware of not wasting time/money -- and thus my total attorneys' fees were not the extreme financial hit they could have been. Highly recommended!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Lovinqッ
31 Mar, 2024 by Eric steele
He is only about $$,,,,he will tell you one set price for a case but once you pay he will continue to charge for things that's not necessary
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12 Sep, 2023 by Janette barclay
He did what he said he would every time.
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11 Sep, 2019 by Gregory
Mr. Wescott was very professional, and efficient. His knowledge and preparation was excellent. I would highly recommend Mr. Wescott for freedom or satisfaction.
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14 Aug, 2019 by Ms. white
Mr. Wescott’s services were highly recommend to me by a close friend. I was facing several felony charges, which carried significant jail time. Mr. Wescott was extremely knowledgeable and efficient in assisting me with my legal troubles. He was successful in concluding the matter, and I didn’t have to do any jail time. I would recommend him to anyone. He’s fairly priced, keeps you informed, and fights hard for his clients; he’s an excellent attorney.
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07 Jul, 2017 by Chaundra
I hired Mr. Wescott to represent me in a criminal court case. He was very helpful when it came to making sure I had a clear understanding of my charges. He also made sure that all information involved was accurate. I would definitely recommend Mr. Wescott to anyone having legal trouble.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Katelyn wainwright
I couldn’t thank Schaniqua enough for her help through my complex case. I would recommend her forever!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Deborah perez brignoni
Terrible phone etiquette and service.
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25 Nov, 2023 by Netta d.
24 Apr, 2023 by Kris
I had never experienced divorce before, did not know what to expect and was relying on Jennifer to guide me through the process. The filing of paperwork was great but the legal guidance was lousy. She did not ask my witness the right questions. She just asked her if “there was anything she wanted to say”. Not familiar with what issues or questions that were important my witness didn’t give the right information that would have supported my case. Also, in a joint meeting with the defense attorney Jennifer gave out advice that cost me almost a thousand dollars and helped the defense’s client. After seeing other attorneys perform their job in court I would never hire her for any reason again.
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17 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
In 2011 I lost custody of my two children while being represented by Ms. Muskus and was ordered to pay child support to my abusive husband. I was in class at the time trying to make a job change I had inconsistent work hours the judge didn’t understand that this was a temporary situation and my lawyer didn’t really say what she needed to say to prove my case.Ms. Muskus lost the case I was devastated, but all Ms. Muskus could think about was getting her check. My faith in the legal system was shattered then and I still feel the same today.My children and I were victims of the legal system. Ms. Muskus ruined my life in one court case and I’m still trying to pick up the pieces.
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12 Feb, 2021 by Alvenia
My representation was not as adequate or thorough as the lawyer for the defendant. Since working with Jennifer I've seen how lawyers pled cases, the language they use, how they present the evidence. As my lawyer I expect her know what kind of questions that should be asked. She failed to provide sufficient guidance to my witness as far as questions to be asked that would reveal information that prove my case. She did not adequately challenge what the dependant said on followup nor challenge with followup questions. On appeal she helped the defendant by giving his attorney advice that helped his client. On appeal she was present in the courtroom but said nothing. She left my defense to an attorney I did not choose and his performance was a joke. I knew I had lost my case by the reaction of the three judges. I felt I paid her to just file court papers because the representation was totally insufficient and inadequate. We did not have a pre-appeal meeting to jointly prepare for the appeal court date which I asked for and was told we would talk before the court session. She arrived late and I did not like her approach to presenting my case but it was to late to change approach. I lost my case. Now that I have seen how good lawyers perform, I regret hiring Jennifer and would not recommend her to anyone else.
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29 May, 2024 by Dave
They are fine for an uncontested low-conflict divorce. However, shop around for a contested high-conflict matter. Sara Gable's litigation skills are suboptimal for a high conflict contested case with aggressive opposing counsel. I had to hire a more experienced litigator to step in on an ad hoc basis to argue more complex motions and hearings.
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17 Jul, 2023 by S drake
Chris has been representing my case since I hired him as my WC attorney. I can truly say if WC tries not to work in your favor or slow with your payments; Chris jump right on the matter and get fast positive results. When calling his office I get to speak with my attorney and not an office personnel. He is always willing to talk without rushing through the conversation. I would highly recommend Attorney Christopher Marts.
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19 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
A family member used her for a divorce and I tried to talk to several times. I called and left a message for her to call me, which she never returned my call. She also charge for every phone conversation every email and every thing her paralegal does. When you ask her to get records from the school where the child goes to she gets them and charges you for getting them and them never uses them. Right before the trial she want to be paid up front for the trial. Her reasons is if you are not happy with the results you won't pay her. Needless to say we did not want to pay her more money after what we paid her for doing nothing but paper work.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Joy miller
Brad filed for a warrant motion recall when he should not have, just to take my money. I had hire another attorney first and I should’ve stayed with him. My son was falsely accused and he was found innocent from questioning, so the detective told me that I didn’t need an attorney. I told Brad macfee and he acted like he was in shock. If I would not have said anything about a refund he would’ve kept my money. I paid him $1500. Who would allow someone to keep their money for nothing. Not me! He told me that he would give me my $1000 back. He got his secretary or whatever she is working from her home, because he has no office to send me an invoice. Saying that he charged me for my affidavits $300 for an hour. We never talked about that, if we did I would not have agreed to that is what I texted him. He never called me back and he ignore my calls after the day he told me a lie about my money. I called and texted a week later asking about my money and Liz said that she didn’t have my address, but Brad had it. Poor communication on their end. I went to her address to pick up my $825 check. I wouldn’t recommend him to a cat. This is what I text Brad and he just read my messages everytime that I text him. Coward
Why are you trying to rip me off? You told me that you were sending me a check for $1,000. You did the motion like Rodney did and really should not have because you knew that it would not work. I need my money back. Not, $825.00
Brad Why didn’t you tell me that I was being charged for the affidavit statement. I would have never agreed to that. You also made it like the warrant would be recalled, because you sent the affidavits attached. You knew that it wouldn’t work, because Rodney told me that it was denied and you knew that. And turn around and misrepresent the truth and you didn’t disclose an affidavit fee. I should’ve stayed with Rodney. it was all about money.
I never agreed to pay you for an affidavit. You stole my money.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Jerica blanding
Brad was the worst lawyer EVER he stole over $500 and never returned my money he played so many games and never barely called us. Not to mention it was like pulling a persons heart out with your bare hands. That’s how hard it was to get in contact. He has a iPhone so I would see him many times read my messages and keep them on read. I guess it’s no surprise we lost our case. He was the worst ever and I wouldn’t recommend him for not even the simplest case. PLEASE DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY!!!
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06 Aug, 2023 by Trust evans
17 Feb, 2024 by Jason
My issues with the corrupt Frederick County State's Attorney Office and the thieves employed by the Frederick Police Department Narcotics Unit began when a federal agency was at my home searching for business records and found $150,000 in cash I kept at home. The feds wanted to seize the money but didn't have paperwork to do that so they contacted Frederick Police and showed them some marijuana I had in the house. Frederick Police, drunk on greed, fell over themselves drafting an unlawful search warrant and took my marijuana and steal my money from the house.
Within 20 minutes of first meeting Jake he turned to his partner Mr. Poffenbarger while reviewing my documents and said, "this warrant they used is no good." I knew I was in good hands. When the Frederick police timed my arrest to occur over the Memorial Day holiday Jake was in court having me released on bail first thing on Tuesday morning.
Jake is extremely personal, professional and caring. Even though his son was born during this time he always gave my case his full attention, was well prepared and presented an commanding presence in the courtroom. He stuck with me through the whole case even after I brought on a Baltimore attorney because I was convinced all of Frederick was in on the corruption. The Baltimore lawyer never showed up at any of my court hearings, but Jake was there with me without fail every other month for a year. He would have to present me the ridiculous offer, made every time to just let Frederick keep the $150k they stole and all the phony charges against my wife and I would be dismissed.
Thankfully, we stood strong with Jake on our side. One of the happiest days of my life was standing with Jake in Court as he made the fat, smelly, money-grubbing prosecutor Colleen enter a Nolle Prosse on every charge in her bogus indictment. The very next week he forced the city to return all of the money they had stolen and my prescription Xanax. This was amazing because these corrupt government agencies can mount a civil case against the money even after they lose in criminal court. They just didn't have any fight left in them after the year Jake spent embarrassing them in Court. I'm happy to report those crooks didn't see a dime from their disgusting escapades.
If I were ever accused or investigated for a crime, served a peace order or had a divorce or custody issue I know the first and only thing I need to do is call Jake Craven, Esquire.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
He didnt care to listen to anything I said he was more interested in making the states attorneys happy! Tried to get me to pled out for 3 years behide bars, went againt what he advised ended up with 1 year probation. F**k that dude.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy is not professional and cannot be trusted to diligently do his job correctly. My first conversation with him was normal so to speak. I got off the phone feeling like I had hired a great attorney, but those feelings were short lived. He is rude, passive aggressive, and not equipped to handle complicated cases. He has poor communication skills, and if he gets frustrated enough, he will hang up on you!!
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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:
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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.
