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Landon J Ascheman, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 56 reviews
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44,66
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
15 Reviews
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4.7
41 Reviews
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jerry lee
Joe is super good at what he does amazing with housing court and handles stuff for tenants side will fight like hell for you. Rate are very reasonable and will work with you. He also does alot of criminal defense case and is very good with it I would strongly recommend joe for your legal needs
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26 Jul, 2024 by Joe vaccaro
I have never once hesitated to refer anyone to Mr. Leach for Criminal Defense or related services. He is a tough, dedicated attorney.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Dominic young
Joe is amazing! He’s patient and understands the laws extremely well. For my case, it took almost a year and a half to go to trial, almost a day and a half in court proceedings, almost an hour and a half of deliberations (including a one hour lunch break) for them to find me “NOT GUILTY”. Thanks!
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James Henry Gempeler, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 151 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,15
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
23 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
128 Reviews
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04 Nov, 2024 by Melanie lobdell
Kristen helped me with my custody and child support case. She was amazing and so easy to work with. She’s very professional, she quickly responds to emails back and forth or any phone calls that needed to be made. She was very straight forward on the process with what I was dealing with and the routes I needed to take in the process. She made me feel so comfortable even when I was stressed about the situation. I will highly recommend her to anyone and will definitely be calling her again if I have any future needs. She was great!!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Erin wolfe
Kristen Bullock is amazing at what she does! Our case was complicated and high conflict but she was committed to helping us keep my son safe. We are grateful for her expertise and tenacity!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Cullen ford
Daniel Adkins is the best attorney in Minnesota. He got my case dismissed and I didn’t even have to go to court
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Allison W. Maxim, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 38 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,98
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4.8/5
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4.9
18 Reviews
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4.7
20 Reviews
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27 Oct, 2023 by Hector matascastillo
Allison is not only someone who will represent you with professionalism but also someone who will protect your dignity and your interests with sound methods. I appreciate that she can see through the issues with wisdom and provide counsel with integrity. She is personable and a consummate professional. I don't know what I would have done without her. Thank you, Allison, and your team.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Fernando f
Allison took a very difficult case petitioning to review and a hearing for a closed divorce case. This due to shenanigans from petitioner's attorney on initial court hearing, court procedure not followed, no effort mediation on petitioner's part, and attorney's fees - all around petitioner being awarded my primary home. The case was reopened for review, at the end: I was awarded 100% equity and rights to my home and my attorney fees. Your mileage may vary, but know this: This is likely your best mileage option! Thanks a million Allison!
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27 Nov, 2022 by P c
Never get my call back
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Alex De Marco, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 17 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,98
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4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
11 Reviews
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4.7
6 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2024 by Grantj
My issue didn't actually make it into the courtroom, I needed someone to advocate for me from a position of having experience with the law. And I needed someone to negotiate for me, who was not emotionally attached to a situation and would be much more capable than me maintaining a level head while speaking on my behalf. Which are definitely qualities that a good criminal defense attorney should have. Mr DeMarco has what could best be described as a bulldog attitude concerning litigation. Aggressive, determined, and possessive of a personality that is charismatic, but carries an air of menace. which is thankfully directed towards his opponents on your behalf. His partner at the time Jorma Cavaleri was also quite skilled. Very deep thinking, verbose, and jovial. They actually complimented each other quite well as a team. At least personality-wise as I've said my matter never made it into a courtroom. Just the same they did manage to secure victory for me. And if you are considering hiring him as an attorney, you could definitely do far worse. And considering the amount of potentially displayed when I met him 12 years ago I'm sure he's done nothing but improved tremendously since then. You would do yourself a disservice by not at least contacting him about a consultation.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Maggie
My husband was facing 7+ years in prison, Alex worked tremendously hard on his case. Alex advised us on resources to use like a phycological evaluation, classes, chemical dependency evaluations, etc. This was a very scary situation that we were in and with Alex's hard work and determination my husband went from 7+ years in prison to a plea deal with up to 7 years of probation. I cannot thank Alex enough for everything that he did for us. If you are looking for help and guidance you cannot go to a better person than Alex.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Duncan ryan
Smart and to the point, plus not greedy, happy when found her.
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Maria E. Maier, experienced Appeals, Child Custody attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2015 by Bunny
Maria is one to trust to get the job done! Very good at what she does and gives you a sense a relief that you can rely on her to take care of it. I would recommend her to anyone that wants to win!
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02 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Maria handled my messy divorce and 5 years of residual issues in a concise manner with knowledge, fairness (to all parties involved) and with a calmness that help me get though those difficult years. I never felt in the dark, Maria always took the time to explain the why's, how's and possible outcomes. No matter what curve ball my ex threw, Maria had already laid the ground work or was able develop a plan that prevailed in the end. Maria's method of maintaining the highroad, sticking to the facts, made my divorce much less ugly. You can't go wrong retaining Maria Maier as your attorney.
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20 Oct, 2010 by Tim
I can't begin to express how amazing Maria was in handling my case. I filed for divorce in August of 2009 and my ex-wife immediately began an unimaginable mud-slinging campaign in an effort to gain sole custody of our children. I wanted to reply in kind and engage in that battle to refute all the lies my ex was putting forth. But, Maria had a great game plan which she came up with after our first court appearance. We would simply stick to the facts. At first, it was difficult to sit back and let my character be assassinated time and time again. However, it was very easy to trust the strategy that Maria had in place. There were several times during my case that the outlook seemed bleak. I would get uptight, panicked or nervous. Maria was always there to explain the divorce process and tell me why we need to maintain our strategy. She was always available to answer any question, no matter how trivial it might have been. She would explain in detail why things were relevant to the court. Even if I had naïve questions like as why they were relevant, Maria explained how my course of action be in my best interests (and the best interests of my children) and how my actions would work in my favor in the long run. To say she has a firm grasp on divorce law and the entire divorce process would be a vast understatement. It is now October of 2010 and my case has just concluded. I’m absolutely convinced Maria is part soothsayer. Her strategy played out exactly as we had discussed back in 2009. The custody evaluation worked out in my favor, just as Maria said it would. The judge saw through the mudslinging of my ex and focused on the facts, just as Maria said she would. While there are no winners in a divorce, I feel truly vindicated that I stuck to my convictions (thanks to Maria’s guidance) and the judge ruled very heavily in my favor. This was the first instance I needed a lawyer for more than one day. I am absolutely elated that I chose Maria Maier to be that lawyer. Her expertise and guidance helped me through a very difficult transition in my life. I wouldn’t wish a divorce on anybody, but I would highly recommend Maria to anyone who needs an expert lawyer on their side should they find themselves facing a divorce. Thanks Maria!!
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Emily Barbara Peterson, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2022 by Leann
Assistance provided was with Restraining order and Custody concerns. I had made several calls and consulted with many attorneys before asking Emily to represent me. I have been working with Emily for almost a year if not more. It was very difficult for me to hire an attorney because there is much to consider like communication, price, availability, experience, etc. I must say, I am pleased that Emily Peterson was able to pick me up as a client. She helped me with obtaining a restraining order and dealing with a custody issue. The restraining order was incredibly nerve wracking yet, Emily made the process better and gave me other resources to use in addition to her. She maintained a quick turnaround to answer my questions and calls. She was encouraging and provided me with honest feedback. I knew what my choices were and what could happen by selecting those choices. I was incredibly impressed and satisfied with our interaction. We did everything electronically, this helped me tremendously. I have already recommended her to others. I am especially happy that I didn’t have the stress of dealing with attorney who was not communicating back with me. She was organized, diligent, and responsive. I will continue to recommend her and will absolutely use Emily again if I should need to.
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25 Oct, 2021 by Eileen
I would not have made it through what was undoubtedly the most difficult year of my life, without Emily. I am sure there isn’t a short supply of competent attorneys in the Twin Cities, but I am not sure many are as compassionate and committed as Emily. Her expertise and legal acumen were critical in the process in reaching the best possible outcome. But, it was her kindness and unending support that also got me through. She is very hardworking. Emily was incredibly responsive. Getting back to me quickly and at all hours of the day. She always made me feel like a top priority. There were days I would call or email 20 plus times, she never made me feel like an inconvenience, the opposite I always felt valued. There were no dumb questions. Emily walked me through every step of the way. She made a daunting and scary process so much easier for me. In the end, I walked away with the most optimal agreement possible. I highly recommend Emily Peterson, she is an excellent attorney and wonderful person.
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Peter Lindstrom, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 583 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,91
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
583 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2025 by Anthony kinney
Alec Duffy was incredible every step of the way throughout my case. He can make anything happen! Thank you so much for your hard work, expertise, and dedication. From the start, I had complete confidence in you, and you exceeded all my expectations. Choosing you as my lawyer was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for everything you’ve done!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer dean
This is the best law firm. They are great. Amanda and Matty are awesome. Always helpful . They always know what going g on and get it dine quick. Thanks
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10 Jan, 2025 by Bouchra in america
The process was made easy and reassuring. Overall it was a good experience. Thank you so much for helping me get my life back 🤗
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John C Gunderson, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 61 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,66
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
61 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2025 by Marvin anderson
The Law Office of Clarence Patterson III provided exceptional legal services in the review of a legal matter involving the preparation of our Last Wills and Testament. His team was prompt, punctual and professional, performing the task exactly as requested with courtesy and at a fair price for their excellent work. If you are looking for extraordinary legal representation that combines professionalism, punctuality, and precision, the Law Office of Clarence Patterson III is where you can rely on to get the job done right. Highly recommended!
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15 Nov, 2024 by J wg
I had a consultation with Clarence and he seemed to have nice and calm demeanor I could appreciate, after giving him the run down of my case he said I had long case history. Not sure what that means as there were only 2 Orders issued previously, I guess that was too much for him. He declined to take the case citing his other caseloads besides that he was nice.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Aj sheridan
Clarence completed wills for my wife and I, and we were very happy with his work. We would definitely recommend him!
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Joseph Guilfoile Vaccaro, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 41 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,10
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
41 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Jerry lee
Joe is super good at what he does amazing with housing court and handles stuff for tenants side will fight like hell for you. Rate are very reasonable and will work with you. He also does alot of criminal defense case and is very good with it I would strongly recommend joe for your legal needs
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26 Jul, 2024 by Joe vaccaro
I have never once hesitated to refer anyone to Mr. Leach for Criminal Defense or related services. He is a tough, dedicated attorney.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Dominic young
Joe is amazing! He’s patient and understands the laws extremely well. For my case, it took almost a year and a half to go to trial, almost a day and a half in court proceedings, almost an hour and a half of deliberations (including a one hour lunch break) for them to find me “NOT GUILTY”. Thanks!
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Amy Elisabeth Edwall, experienced Appeals, Child Custody attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Amy was VERY EASY to talk to; she'd explained things in a manner I could understand, and even CITED the statutes off the top of her head within conversation! She attached my missing documents necessary via TIMELY EMAIL [I currently have limited resources]; by the time of the hearing I FELT confident. I FELT prepared for "worst case scenario". I would STRONGLY recommend her, just by the brief consultation we have had. Lastly, she was unbiased and LISTENED; I did NOT feel like "just another case." I believe that is what stood out to me the most.
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Craig Edgar Shriver, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 11 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,11
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
3.5
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
9 Reviews
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30 Jul, 2023 by Mitzi hughes
Craig represented my husband numerous times. Each time he won our cases. Craig is honest fair and knows the law. Thank you Craig for working so hard for us.
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28 Apr, 2023 by Ala rose
Professional. Knowledgeable. Precisely the attorney I needed. Many thanks.
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02 May, 2022 by R alvarez
Craig represented me in court many times on several subpoenas. He defeated all of them, so I never had to go to court. WAY TO GO CRAIG, THANKS AGAIN His knowledge of the law is excellent.
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John Patrick Lesch, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 9 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,59
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
9 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2025 by Jessica keil
John did not represent me correctly or thoroughly in an HRO case (I filed against 2 individuals). I didn't find out until 2 weeks later when I got the court transcript John missed major important agreements opposing party was to make in order for me to cease the HRO hearing and drop the HRO against the two individuals. John REFUSED to revise the out-of-court agreement the Judge ordered us to make and sign or to MAKE RIGHT WHAT ERRORS HE MADE in my case. This will now cause more damages for me, as I will likely need to return back to court and hire another attorney. This also caused me emotional and mental anguish as I trusted John to represent me to the fullest extent and he failed miserably, affecting my performance at my job from the added stress. John ignored my (client) instructions, failed to ensure all my agreements were included in court, and failed to communicate agreements of the out-of-court settlement with me first for my review and get my consent. John's actions are a breach of duty which caused me harm, suffering, and financial loss.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Jamal jefferson
Good guy. Helped me tremendously! Highly recommended
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16 Nov, 2023 by Sandra rose
"I am extremely pleased with the legal representation provided by John Lesch Their profound knowledge of the law, strategic approach, and excellent communication skills made a significant impact. John demonstrated unwavering dedication. I highly recommend their services for anyone in need of a skilled and reliable attorney. Thank you John and Thank you Ashley! ♥️
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Allison Jeanne Rapp Gonzalez, experienced Child Support, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 45 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,22
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
45 Reviews
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12 Dec, 2024 by Nicki gray
Wonderful experience. Adam is a very knowledgeable lawyer and hard worker. He always kept in touch, spoke in Layman's terms and guided me in each step. He helped me get compensation after I was rear-ended. The other side tried making my prior, more minor injuries into something big and then tried downplaying this injury, which made me frustrated. Adam didn't let them get away with that, and he believed me. He worked so hard for me and I'm so grateful.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Julie dutcher
Rutzick Law office, specifically Steve Rutzick has been very helpful with my case. He kept me informed of everything. even things I had no idea about! He considered no question was unimportant. and believe me, I had many questions. I recommend Steve Rutzick to anyone looking for a good, honest lawyer.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Jeffrey martin
I worked with Adam after getting into a car accident and I could not have been happier with his representation. He was very thorough and I could tell he cared about me as a person and the injuries I was dealing with. I can't thank him enough for his help and I would highly recommend him.
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Laura Elizabeth Nelson, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,38
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3.6/5
Google Maps
3.6
3 Reviews
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11 Oct, 2023 by Skennys salgado
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04 Aug, 2023 by Laurie estreita hernandez
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21 Sep, 2018 by Dora polk
They are all about arresting the wrong people they don’t care if justice is served
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Kurtis Lee Berg, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
We were very disappointed in the quality of Kurtis representing us. We wrote 90% of our own petition, gather our own MPD reports for our case. He made several grammar errors in our petition and we had to proof read everything!!! Not a good experience at all. My stress was through the roof!! I had to defend myself on my own.
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Lindsay Jeanne Brice, experienced Appeals, Child Support attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Toni Michelle Lee, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Madelyn Ann Adams, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Gary Gerard Liebmann, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jason Paul Steck, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Rachel Elizabeth Kohler, experienced Domestic Violence, Immigration attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Katie Scarlett Knight, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Daniel Phillip Becker, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Paul, MN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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.
  • 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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