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13 Jan, 2025 by Chelsea roy
Everyone at Callahan Law was so great to work with. Very professional and knowledgeable. They fought for me to receive the best outcome and made me feel at ease. I would recommend them to anyone!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Debra christner
I worked with Olaf and his team. Immediate response, very reassuring. Quite a smooth & thorough process. Highly recommended.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer verellen
I highly recommend Bret, he is amazing. He handled everything quickly, professionally, and was very responsive. Thank you for everything!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Dan cooper
It was a total pleasure working with Jim to get my gun rights restored. He goes above and beyond for his clients. After the Judge signed the order, Jim sent copies directly to WASP, so I could apply for my concealed carry permit sooner than later. He is very kind, caring, and incredibly professional. If you are looking to get your gun rights back, look no further. You are in good hands with Jim. Thank you, Jim. My family and I are truly grateful for your business.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Redeemed toremain
BEST ATTORNEY IN HISTORY!!!!!!!!! HIRE YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID!!!!
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27 Jul, 2023 by Brian sperry
I had a great experience with james, he kept me up to date on getting my gun rights back and had it done in the time he said it would be completed, his price was extremely fair, I highly recommend him and will always refer him to any one that needs his services!
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05 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Melissa Denton at Ascher & Denton Family Law. While I reflect on the last year, with the changes, challenges, and court battles, I hope that Melissa Denton knows the monumental impact she and her staff made on my family’s lives. Our current reality would look very different right now without her support and guidance. I cannot say enough how grateful I am for her and her team, who were all professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and best of all, personable. They have worked tirelessly with me to fight for the best interests of my family! If you are unsure who to call for matters of family law, call Ascher & Denton; you will not regret it!
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12 Jan, 2022 by Cassandra
Melissa has been an incredible attorney to have over the past 5 years. She has helped me win my case every time. Her and her office have always been responsive and courteous to my needs and concerns. I highly recommend Melissa for getting things taken care of correctly the first time!
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28 Feb, 2019 by Amy
There is not enough I can say for all Melissa has done for me and my children. I hired Melissa after having 2 other local attorneys. I won’t mention their names, however I don’t feel with them they always had the best intentions of my children involved. From the start with my consultation, Melissa always had not only my protection legally /finamcially at the top, but the protection of my children first and foremost. It had taken me three years and two attorneys before Melissa came and finished my case with the amount of money she told me she would. She actually finished my three year long case in just 6 months. If you are from an abusive relationship and are wondering where to go next and who could help you finish a long horrible process, I would definitely consult Melissa to help you. I do believe she is an angel for me and my kids...there just aren’t any more words or better way to put it. Thank you Melissa Amy and the M&Ms
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29 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Forrest helped me unwind a long unhappy marriage. I had an unfortunate instance with another attorney who seemed offended by my desire to divorce. Forrest kept it professional. He has good instincts and he has been around the block a time or two. This was someone I could work with to accomplish my goals. With patience and strategic thinking, Forrest helped me to get to the best outcome.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
My experience is he does not respond. He ignored my communications. He didn't act on my instructions.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Frank
After my first attorney pushed me to file an ill advised motion that he lost, I was so lucky to find Mr Wagner through a friend’s referral. Mr Wagner was patient with my many detailed questions, was prompt to respond to my Emails, and advised me as to how to avoid prolonging the divorce process. He composed compelling letters to opposing counsel. He works alone with just one paralegal who is extremely knowledgeable and efficient. Mr. Wagner would often reply same day to my weekend inquiries and even converse with me via Zoom or WhatsApp while he was on vacation! I can’t say enough good things about him.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Georgia
Helped with modification of child support paperwork. Made sure it waas completed properly. Explained everything thoroughly. Gave us peace of mind. Very professional. Went the extra mile!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kaleen cullen
Sharp, effective, and no nonsense representation in a contentious divorce. And they refunded unused deposit!!! Highly recommend.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie wilbur
Very happy client. Did everything on time and as promised, they didn’t skip a beat with anything. Nothing required my intervention, they handled all of it. Worth every penny!!! Thank you!
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15 Sep, 2023 by Miranda lee
Always well with the money.
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02 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
My wife and I retained Mr. Rawnsley for a very delicate family law matter. We had been falsely accused of child abuse by my ex wife and an unsuccessful defense of the accusations would have been catastrophic for our family. For reference, I have worked with many attorneys in the past 10 years dealing with my ex so I have an unfortunately large amount of experience in assessing the quality of legal counsel. Mr. Rawnsley was very professional, highly informed about the relevant statutes and had a good understanding and relationship with the judicial officer (something that is very, very important). All of my previous counsel lacked in some area or another. One may have been less competent, where another may have not had the quickness of wit and depth of understanding of the law to successfully represent my interests. I can say with total confidence that Mr. Rawnsley was the complete package. He was, by far, the best attorney I have ever hired for a family law matter and it isn't really close. I am grateful for his efforts and would recommend him to anyone else.
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09 Feb, 2022 by Brian
For context: the following stems from a separation/divorce and parenting plan fight that has been ongoing for almost three years. During the first year, I felt that the firm was doing a great job going to bat for me to help me avoid a "pro se" nightmare that I was facing. However, even after the entrance of the divorce decree and final orders almost a year ago, the opposing party still decided to interpret things her own way. A year ago, I warned my lawyer that the opposing party intended to take some actions related to federal taxes. The firm either ignored what I said or chose inaction on the matter, and to this day claim not to have any knowledge of the tax situation despite email chains to the contrary from early 2021. I have now lost out on 2 years worth of tax refunds totaling more than $10,000 because of that one single action taken by the opposing party, even though it is contradicted by what is written in the final court order. No action taken in this instance, but everyone knows if I, the father, had done the same thing to her, I would've been dragged through the coals by the court. Early November, 2021 - I write an email to confirm pickup dates and times for Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks. I am told I'm wrong on both and that I won't be getting to see my children until three days after the day Christmas break begins. I re-involve my attorney to help settle things. It goes to mediation, doesn't get resolved, the day of her lawyer finally confirms with my lawyer that I'll be getting them two days late and "take it or leave it" essentially. The parenting plan was violated when those two visitation days that should have been mine were withheld from me. Opposing party used various excuses and reasonings, but the bottom line is they broke the parenting order. I asked my counsel to hold her accountable, asked if there was a contempt motion we could make. It has been almost two months since those days were lost, and I have been attempting that entire time to get a contempt motion filed against the opposing party, but nothing happened. I tried asking every few days if something had been done; nothing had. It was always "Oh they didn't answer yet" or a message from opposing counsel that said "I just forwarded this to my client, let's see what she says" or "Oh sorry, I didn't see this until three days after you sent it, let me send it to my client". No motion was ever filed, and I have yet to find out if I'm ever going to get my two days back that I lost due to her choices. I pleaded with my counsel to do something. Take action. If it had been me as the father who had done what she did, she and the court would have already shredded me apart. I begged over and over for almost a month, and finally said if something wasn't going to happen soon that I would retain new counsel. That's when I received the professional equivalent of "fine I quit". Complete with self-congratulatory claims referring back to the previous work done from a year ago. To clarify with a mechanic analogy: "The car ran great the day I fixed it a year ago, I can't believe you're upset now that something else broke and I haven't fixed it yet!" If they had done what I had asked, I wouldn't have had to replace them. Two months of back and forth. Hours and hours billed for emails and phone calls, and not a single legal action filed despite several written "threats" to opposing counsel about the intent to file a contempt motion. It was as if the mere mention of the motion would've been sufficient to inspire the opposing party to mend their ways. But it wasn't. And it isn't. By the time I had hired a new lawyer, it felt as if the opposing party had two lawyers and I had none. Don't expect them to explain the reasons why behind the advice they give you. I learned more in 24 hours with the new counsel than I did over the last two years with this firm.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
PWR law is the worst I would recommend finding better legal help. Patrick Rawnsley is a terrible money hungry attorney that doesn’t get good results for you if you’re not wealthy and willing to pay out your life savings. Starting he charge me a $5000 retainer fee then he burned through it in less than a month after only appearing in court for me one time. Supposed to help me with my parenting plan And charge me another $2000 retainer or he would drop my case, he burned through that and then came up with an additional $3000 of more unjustified charges. He was my attorney for less than 3 months and only appeared in court for me one time. He was supposed to help me get my youngest son into our parenting plan but was unsuccessful in all. He was a waist of $7000 and of course he falsely charged me an additional $3000 then sent me to collections with new charges with a total of over $6400. He would set up in person meetings with me his legal aid then charge me almost twice as much for each meeting. When I asked if we could just meet with the two of us he would still charge me on the backend to discuss the case with his legal aid which would be more expensive he said. 4 years later and I’m still trying to dispute what he’s done to my credit. He didn’t even care that I was broke and using student loans to pay him to help me be in my kids lives. All of this is true and I would highly recommend you use a better attorney that won’t screw you over when you are already suffering. Please tell me how an attorney can charge a poor client over $13400 but only show up to court one time and represent them for only a couple months and leaving their client in the same situation when they came to him.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Kim and Cat brought me through my protection order process with the utmost professionalism, sensitivity, and compassion. I could not have asked for a better team to fight for me. The burden of this painful process was lifted from my shoulders-- I felt I could trust Kim completely to fight for me and leave nothing unsaid. Kim talked to me on the phone multiple times to ensure I felt informed and answered all my questions. Kim and Cat helped me regain a sense of empowerment and control over my life, and I'd recommend them to anyone in a heartbeat.
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10 Aug, 2023 by Jennifer
I hired Kim Reid to help me with Domestic Violence Protection Order. I was scared and intimated by the entire process. Kim stepped in and made the process so much easier to deal with. Without her I do not think I could have navigated such a difficult situation. After the order was entered I hired Kim Reid to do my divorce as well. She was so professional and her Paralegal Cat was also amazing. Very quick to respond and kept me informed of what to expect throughout the entire process. They never lost sight of the fact that even though they do this kind of work often I was overwhelmed with the process. They explained the process every step of the way. Kim was amazing. I couldn't have made it through this process without her.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I retained $1250.00 Kim Reid to do a guardianship case and she took that money and applied it to another family law case I was making payments on that she over charged me for. Kim Reid never went to court on my guardianship case after I paid her.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kaleen cullen
Sharp, effective, and no nonsense representation in a contentious divorce. And they refunded unused deposit!!! Highly recommend.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie wilbur
Very happy client. Did everything on time and as promised, they didn’t skip a beat with anything. Nothing required my intervention, they handled all of it. Worth every penny!!! Thank you!
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15 Sep, 2023 by Miranda lee
Always well with the money.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Angela carlson
Great experience with Jeanne. Highly recommend to anyone needing her services.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Daniel wermuth
I cannot express enough gratitude to Ben and Jeanne at Morris-Sockle Law Firm for their outstanding support and expertise during my settlement. From the very beginning, they were incredibly compassionate and attentive, taking the time to understand my situation and needs fully. Their legal acumen and empathetic approach made me feel supported every step of the way. They were always available to answer my questions, providing clear and honest guidance that made a challenging process much more manageable. Their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to achieving the best outcome for me were evident throughout the entire process. Thanks to their hard work, I received a fair and favorable settlement. I highly recommend Ben and Jeanne and the entire team at Morris-Sockle Law Firm to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation. They truly go above and beyond for their clients!
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10 Apr, 2024 by Cindy mckinney
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27 Mar, 2024 by Jennifer carlson
Jonathan Sprouffske, if he can call himself an attorney, does not even deserve the 1 star. The incredible distaste I will have for him cannot be resolved from the horror he put my family through in dealing with my father's estate. It has been over 2 years since his death and my blood still boils with the lack or should I say no communication and manipulation. Do not hire, you will regret!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Becky carver
Amy is a rockstar attorney. No one represents their clients better than Amy. She’s the absolute best.
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02 Dec, 2023 by Andra flint
Great 👍 attorney for all your needs. Maybe you should call 📞 them to make your life better.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Rob advocates for abusers and charges outrageous amounts for filing pretty paperwork courtesy of his staff. He has no idea what is really going on. He manipulates situations to support abusers and potentially puts children in harms way. Money grabber to support his lifestyle.
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
This attorney is not for women and is vindictive in his approach. You think he is for you when he is about getting more men custody of children rather than doing what is right
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
This lawyer tells stories just like he said. He takes things and twists words to provide a story that the judge likes. He has helped multiple abusers further abuse and does not understand how the abuse cycle works or he would see through it. He takes on clients that have track records of abuse, addiction, and poor behavior and helps them get custody of children. I will never hire him again
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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:

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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