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5.0
24 Reviews
4.9
475 Reviews
08 Feb, 2025 by Peter nguamsanith
The Yoon Law Firm assisted me a few years ago. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the phenomenal customer service experience that they have provided me. All the staff were extremely caring, kind, and passionate. Based off of my experience, I feel that they care about each and everyone of their clients that they work with. I was extremely satisfied with the results and outcome and thanks again for their tireless efforts and compassion to ensure that I was taken care of. It is not easy to find people who are genuine and caring, but I am so blessed that I had the opportunity to have this law firm assist me. I would truly from the bottom of my heart recommend this law firm to anyone who needs any assistance based on their specialties.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Yechan lim
Mr. Yoon has saved my future.
His incredible skills and professionalism significantly lowered the charge.
He is the one to go for.
Thank you Mr. Yoon for your tremendous help. I will never forget. Praise the Lord!!
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13 Jan, 2025 by David lynes
Madison was great to work with, she took the time to understand our case, answer questions and support us throughout the entire process. We had great communication and questions were always answered promptly. Outcome was even better than we imagined, Madison was able to get a very favorable outcome.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Arvinder singh
The war on drugs is failing, and Jon Katz is one of its strongest adversaries. Jon had saved me once before, in a DUI that resulted in two possession charges (both of which were dismissed). During the end of my VASAP probation, I (in my opinion) was targeted by law enforcement in a traffic stop (where I was not the driver) that resulted in a public intoxication arrest with two possession charges, one a felony.
Within a half hour of leaving Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, I had already notified Jon’s assistant that I needed a consultation with Jon. Just shy of a couple days later, I was in his office near the courthouse. When I described my predicament, Jon told me of how his teachers in grade school used to get annoyed of him. One told him he’d be a great defense lawyer. “Dismiss, dismiss, dismiss” he said. He assured me these charges, which resulted in a probation violation, would be dismissed.
Fast forward to February of 2025, I had completed Jon’s recommended “homework plan” and I was primed for court. The day of the pre-trial hearing, I walked into the courthouse feeling, as though the case was already over, that I had enlisted the help of the best legal defense I could possibly get, and the outcome was evident.
All three charges were dismissed, and I am no longer on probation. The euphoria of freedom, I feel days after court. And it is all thanks to the experience, connections, and expertise of Jon Katz.
In the hour before court, I walked around the courthouse, feeling as if I wasn’t there as a criminal, but rather a member of society. For anyone reading this that may be in a legal situation, by fault or not, guilty or innocent, you have a place and purpose in life. Hiring Jon Katz is an important first step in reclaiming your dreams and ambitions for the future and life at large. Keep your head up, stay silent, and call Jon Katz!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Thomas choi
Dear Mr. Katz,
You have been a true lifesaver, and I cannot thank you enough for your dedication and legal expertise. Your hard work and persistence gave me hope and fair chance, and I will always to be grateful for everything you have done.
Mr. Katz goes beyond to beat the prosecution and very professional. I was so stressed out and worried to death on my case, but Mr. Katz made everything smooth, and outcome was great. My first DUI charge was dropped to Reckless driving and no jail time. If you are in need of DUI or reckless driving attorney, I highly recommend hiring Mr. Katz to resolve your case.
Thank you, Sir!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Steven
I'm glad I found Jon and got to meet with him to discuss a legal problem. After carefully listening to my con concerns, he immediately looked up the pertinent legal codes and offered some well reasoned advice. Talking with Jon was quite helpful and like so many others, he certainly has my endorsement.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
83 Reviews
19 Dec, 2024 by Jr
The person you want to retain if you want the peace of mind of knowing that if he can't win your case no one can.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Kathy reiter
If you are ever faced with being the recipient of a friend, family member, colleague or a client's one and only phone call from jail, and they are imploring you to obtain the BEST criminal defense attorney to represent them. Don't panic, do what I did, call Mr. Mark J. Petrovich. A lawyer's lawyer! AMAZING ATTORNEY! Highly respected by both his peers and judges alike. With decades of experience he has the legal expertise to handle the most challenging situations. Hard working, conscientious, detail-oriented, well prepared, direct, no-nonsense, thinks on his feet, confident, honest, empathetic, compassionate, understanding, are all attributes I experienced working with him. He took the time and had the patience to answer the multitude of hard hitting questions I asked and assured me that he would do his very best, which he did, in record time! If I were ever in need of legal counsel, for myself, there would be no one that I would trust more. He helped me, to help someone, who had entrusted their life to me and he did not let us down! Kathy Reiter, M.S.W. Director of the Northern Virginia Pet Loss Support Center.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Classy missy ny
Mr. Petrovich is great attorney, highly recommended, he won’t disappoint you!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jr
The person you want to retain if you want the peace of mind of knowing that if he can't win your case no one can.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jr
I highly recommend as a criminal defense attorney. He was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to my case. From start to finish, he kept me informed and made sure I understood all my options. Thanks to his experience and expertise, I received a much better outcome than I ever expected.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Kathy reiter
If you are ever faced with being the recipient of a friend, family member, colleague or a client's one and only phone call from jail, and they are imploring you to obtain the BEST criminal defense attorney to represent them. Don't panic, do what I did, call Mr. Mark J. Petrovich. A lawyer's lawyer! AMAZING ATTORNEY! Highly respected by both his peers and judges alike. With decades of experience he has the legal expertise to handle the most challenging situations. Hard working, conscientious, detail-oriented, well prepared, direct, no-nonsense, thinks on his feet, confident, honest, empathetic, compassionate, understanding, are all attributes I experienced working with him. He took the time and had the patience to answer the multitude of hard hitting questions I asked and assured me that he would do his very best, which he did, in record time! If I were ever in need of legal counsel, for myself, there would be no one that I would trust more. He helped me, to help someone, who had entrusted their life to me and he did not let us down! Kathy Reiter, M.S.W. Director of the Northern Virginia Pet Loss Support Center.
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5.0
21 Reviews
4.7
478 Reviews
15 Jan, 2025 by C s
I just finished a lengthy divorce process with Livesay & Myers. Ms. Haight and Ms. Spurgeon are a phenomenal team! I used this firm in particular as I needed someone who understood military divorces/laws and they certainly have that experience!
They are honest, professional and I am very pleased with the services I received. I would absolutely use them again in the future if needed.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Amanda vaughan
Mariah and Rossimar helped me through my contempt and custody matters. They are both amazing and I absolutely recommend them. They made sure to explain everything to me in detail and what options were available, all while respecting the time (money) it took to respond to all my many questions. Over the years I met with a few different attorneys for this matter, but did not feel comfortable with any of them until I met with Mariah for my consultation with Livesay & Myers. I’m so glad I decided to go through with the legal proceedings and am very happy with the representation that I had. Very personable, knowledgeable, and worthwhile.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Lori harold
When I say Mr. Simms is a phenomenal attorney, I mean that in every sense of the word, phenomenal. He is truly dedicated to his work, and he stops at nothing to obtain the best possibly outcome. I was charged with a petit larceny charge that could have ruined my entire life and that of my family as well as my career. Mr. Simms made a 4 hour trip to represent me, and was able to get me a dismissal! If you want a knowledgeable, kind, hardworking attorney, and an attorney that strives to get a dismissal or not guilty verdict, then Mr. Simms is the attorney you need. He won’t disappoint! Thank you Mr. Simms for not only representing me, but for making the drive to represent me, and for not settling for anything less than a dismissal, and that’s exactly what you got for me. I will be eternally grateful for your devotion to my case, and for getting me the verdict of dismissal. I owe you my life for what you did. Thank you sir for representing me! You’re simply phenomenal in every sense of the word, and your kindness will never be forgotten!
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28 Feb, 2025 by Jean zachariasiewicz
13 Feb, 2025 by Brad
Jon is the go-to expert for post-conviction matters in Virginia. He is exceedingly skilled, has more experience with post-conviction matters than any of his peers, and his work is as thorough as it gets. With post-conviction claims, you need a lawyer who knows exactly what to look for, searches for it with a fine-toothed comb, then has the legal acumen to turn what he found into a compelling argument for justice. That's exactly how Jon approaches every case. Highly recommended.
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11 Feb, 2025 by Ashley sease
10 Feb, 2025 by Ghena k
I originally booked a consultation last year with Pervaiz to discuss my options since I was going through divorce. I didn't have enough info for her during my 1 hour consultation so she cut my session short. So I ended up having a credit for 150$ from the 300$ hour consultation.
After I finalized my divorce amicably with my ex, I decided to reach out to schedule a consultation to write a Will. No Money was collected for this appointment, I just reminded them I had the credit still in my account and they confirmed. I called and emailed the day of my appointment to let them know I had a 103 fever and that I was very sick and I am not able to discuss anything related to a "Will". I mean how could you? With a high fever!! This is a serious topic and you need you full brain capacity to do so!!
Pervaiz refused to reschedule my appointment and they told me if I do not call at my appointment time that they will not allow me to reschedule.
I was diagnosed with the flu and pneumonia and they can clearly tell I am not making my sickness up from the way I was coughing. I offered to send a doctor's note however she just decided to take the credit I have left with them instead of being empathetic with my situation! This clearly shows you that she doesn't care about people! And she just knew I had a credit and took it!
Sickness happens and this unpredictable. I will not recommend her to anyone especially after what happened to me!
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24 Jan, 2025 by 0z
Very kind, helpful people. I highly recommend this law firm.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Emmanuel boyd
I couldn't have asked for better treatment and understanding!.Janai G was very professional and easy to talk with. She left me feeling and knowing that I am in very good trust worthy hands.A extra 5 star bonus!.
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27 Feb, 2025 by Jona larz
26 Feb, 2025 by Dilia ramos
08 Feb, 2025 by Peter nguamsanith
The Yoon Law Firm assisted me a few years ago. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the phenomenal customer service experience that they have provided me. All the staff were extremely caring, kind, and passionate. Based off of my experience, I feel that they care about each and everyone of their clients that they work with. I was extremely satisfied with the results and outcome and thanks again for their tireless efforts and compassion to ensure that I was taken care of. It is not easy to find people who are genuine and caring, but I am so blessed that I had the opportunity to have this law firm assist me. I would truly from the bottom of my heart recommend this law firm to anyone who needs any assistance based on their specialties.
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08 Feb, 2025 by Peter nguamsanith
The Yoon Law Firm assisted me a few years ago. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the phenomenal customer service experience that they have provided me. All the staff were extremely caring, kind, and passionate. Based off of my experience, I feel that they care about each and everyone of their clients that they work with. I was extremely satisfied with the results and outcome and thanks again for their tireless efforts and compassion to ensure that I was taken care of. It is not easy to find people who are genuine and caring, but I am so blessed that I had the opportunity to have this law firm assist me. I would truly from the bottom of my heart recommend this law firm to anyone who needs any assistance based on their specialties.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Yechan lim
Mr. Yoon has saved my future.
His incredible skills and professionalism significantly lowered the charge.
He is the one to go for.
Thank you Mr. Yoon for your tremendous help. I will never forget. Praise the Lord!!
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by David lynes
Madison was great to work with, she took the time to understand our case, answer questions and support us throughout the entire process. We had great communication and questions were always answered promptly. Outcome was even better than we imagined, Madison was able to get a very favorable outcome.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Jose molina
Hacen muy buen trabajo
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27 Sep, 2024 by Nasir mossaddad
Very nice and charming initially with good promisas, however, when its a tines to compensated you,, they compeletly turning to a different law office. Stay away. Wrong law office which cares about uour money. Stay away.
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11 May, 2024 by M carrillo (castro)
11 Feb, 2020 by Sanjay
Few months ago I got a reckless driving ticket , I talked five or six lawyers before I decided on Mr.Clingan. it was my first time going to court for anything so I got a free consultation. Mr.Clingan took his time and gave me a very descriptive overview of my legal options , and what he could offer, his rates are very fair, and he doesn’t use fear tactics to get your business. Mr.Clingan is very responsive to texts/calls and he seems like one of the few who genuinely care about their client. I am extremely pleased with his services.
I also agree with the other 5 star reviewers he seems to be the best traffic attorney in the area. I’ll be referring him to any family or friends who end up in a similar situation.
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10 Jun, 2018 by Kvf
I retained Eric Clingan to represent my son after he received several major traffic infractions in Prince William County, VA. From the onset, Mr. Clingan demonstrated a high aptitude for the law as he presented my son with several optimistic options. In court, Eric Clingan did not disappoint. His thorough preparation was clearly displayed in his impressive delivery which surpassed all the other attorney’s. if you are looking for an experienced, compassionate and attentive attorney who will aggressively work your case, I strongly endorse and recommend that you choose Eric Clingan and the NoVA Law Firm.
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09 Jun, 2018 by Iamila
I have retain Mr. Clingan multiple times and came out victorious. Without a doubt the best Attorney in Northern Virginia. I wouldn't look else where for legal help! He seems to be well noted and respected in the Courts. A natural at what he does, he is poised and collective and take his and your time into consideration. I have referred multiple friends to his firm and we are all pleased and satisfied with his service. He doesn't settle for less and will fight to give you a fair trial.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Luis salazar
Very rude demeanor when attempting to call and ask questions about potential case and got dismissed quickly and hung up on. If this customer service is any indication of their work then STAY AWAY!!!!!.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Karen fructuoso
Mr. Brian Drummond came highly recommended to my family by a trusted friend, and we now know why. Mr. Drummond is an outstanding lawyer and human. He supported our family when both of my sons were dealing with 2 different court issues in 2 different counties at the same time.
He quickly responded to my many messages and questions and continually went above and beyond to support my boys in their different situations! Both court issues ended with the best outcome possible thanks to his knowledge and fantastic pre-court advice.
He treats his clients with respect, humor, and empathy.
I highly recommend Mr. Drummond if you need a lawyer.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Amin zaqzouq
Very disappointed with Chase. I was referred to him by a friend, but they dealt with him years ago. Now, he never return my calls or emails. He took the money before he did anything of course. Don't waste your time with this guy.
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06 Nov, 2016 by Curtis
In December of 2015, I was accused of four felonies and a misdemeanor in Lorton, Va. These charges, if convicted, carried a mandatory sentence of 48 years. I went for a trial and Ms Wright said she would fight for me and she did. I was handed a malicious indictment by a prosecutor who wanted a conviction by any means necessary (I was a retired U.S. Army veteran in deep trouble).
I knew I had a good lawyer at the opening statement, she came in strong and confident, the prosecution was out matched from the start of the proceedings. During the trial process, Ms Wright highlighted the discrepancies in the allegations made against me with pinpoint accuracy. Her cross examination of the witnesses dismantled the credibility of my accusers and during her closing arguments she tore apart the accusations, the police, as well as the state, with no fear. As a result of a three day trial, I was found - NOT GUILTY-
GOD BLESS YOU MS WRIGHT AND THE SIMMS FIRM
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04 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I was fortunate to have connected with Ms Melanie Wright for my case. I had less hopes of getting out of this complicated case due to its extensiveness. I felt relaxed in my very first meeting with Ms Wright as she knew exactly what to ask and how to get the right answers. She pleasantly surprised me with her in-depth knowledge of Law and her ability to translate them into the requirement of my case. I saw her involved in the case as her OWN and worked diligently all through the time, late nights, weekends, and holidays till she hand held my case to a favorable closure.
I found her knowledgeable, proactive, preemptive, diligent, hardworking, disciplined and professional.
She was confident and fruitful in the court and ensured that the case closed in my favor.
During the time she was working in my case, I also came to know that she was able to win another case that she took up.
I strongly recommend Ms Melanie Wright for the best outcomes that a case would deserve. God Bless her.
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29 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Caldwell is an excellent attorney and I would highly recommend her. I hired her for victim representation during an assault case and I was extremely nervous about the proceedings and the possibility of testifying. Attorney Caldwell had several meetings with me to make sure I felt prepared, met with me early before the court case and stayed with me during the whole trial explaining every step of the case to make sure I understood. While I'm sure this wasn't her most challenging case, she gave me her full attention throughout the procedure, which ended in our favor. Attorney Caldwell is thorough, patient and an excellent attorney.
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22 Oct, 2020 by James
I received a notice of photo enforcement of a speeding violation. Mr. Clapp was able to let me know that paying the ticket would have no further ramifications, and that contesting it would not be worth the time and effort. He took the time to put my mind at ease, which was a great comfort.
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15 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
He was very helpful from the beginning to end. He was respectful, friendly, knowledgeable and charismatic. He knew his stuff and really proved it the day of trail. He is truly a life saver. He knew my position and fought for both my boyfriend and I to get justice the correct way! I am beyond grateful to him! If you're in trouble or feel like someone you love and know is wrongly accused I highly recommend him as a lawyer. Hes affordable and extremely intelligent. He speaks both Spanish and English so hes really worth. Thank you Mr. Clapp! 2/15/18 was the day you made things right for both my boyfriend, thank you so very much!! He gets a 10 out of 5 stars from me!
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29 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr.clapp defended me excelently in a wreck less driving charge where I could have received jail time and a 500 dollar fee. At the end of my case jail time was avoided and a concurrent charge was dropped
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25 Feb, 2024 by Alison (a); someone is using my emails.
Do you know Ruby from Rosie's Place; Boston Mass.
I met her in 2014.
I ask because you have alot of experience in Sweet Home Alabama.
But NOT enough experience with Ellen Brown Hoeg;if you knew what was good for you you would have stayed away from her. I have intimate knowledge of my one time mediocre best friend. Oh yeah !!!
Alison Mary Elizabeth Flood
The Carlton
35 North Chatsworth Ave Larchmont NY.
Apartment 5Y.
See ya Joey!!!
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11 Jan, 2023 by Bobby
Joe Flood is an exceptional criminal defense lawyer. I recently used his services to defend myself against a criminal drug charge, and I could not have been more pleased with the results. Initially, he spent three plus hours calling the jail to get in contact with me in the middle of the night. Joe was extremely knowledgeable and offered knowledgeable advice. He was very organized and kept me informed of every step of the process. He always answered my phone calls/texts and handled all the details of the case very professionally. Even though I was facing a serious charge, Joe provided a sense of comfort and security as he worked through the case. Joe is a great lawyer and I highly recommend him for any criminal defense needs. He is the best lawyer that I could have asked for and I’m extremely grateful for all his hard work.
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08 Jan, 2023 by Shawn
From the moment I hired Mr Flood, I felt like our case was the only case he was working on. He religiously stayed in touch with me throughout the various stages of the case and kept me informed and educated on every aspect as we navigated through a very long and drawn out process. Everything Mr Flood told me he would do, he did! My best friend is a criminal attorney in NC and he helped me find Mr Flood. We had a lengthy list of potential attorneys and we interviewed many. After the first conversation with Mr Flood, I knew he was the right attorney for my brother’s case. Mr Flood is professional, compassionate and smart, but most importantly he is competent. I would highly recommend Mr Flood.
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24 Jan, 2015 by Mike
This Lawyer is nothing short of a complete inept lawyer. Not only did he put me on the stand to defend myself against a jury on a DUI charge. He asked me no questions involved with the case, just my name, profession etc and closed with allowing the DA to rip me apart with questions that were clear hearsay and opinions with no objections whatsoever. Seriously - stay away! I paid him and he got the money as a pd. HE EVEN FAILED TO FILE THE APPEAL IN TIME as requested while i was locked up.
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02 Oct, 2012 by John
I was being charged with PWID Sch I/II Drug in Fairfax and Prince William for a DUI and Mr Courtnall got my charges in Fairfax dismissed and my DWI was amended from DWI to Wreckless driving and I was extremely happy because I did not lose my job,. Did I mention I was arrested over the weekend and he filed a bond motion and I was released that Monday what an awesome Attorney. My aunt referred me to him as he also helped her with a Juvenile Case in July where here charges were dismissed as well . Extremely busy but very knowledgeable and trustworthy. I recommend him to all my friends and family who are being charged in Criminal or Traffic Court in Both State and Federal Courts in Northern VA and he also goes out as far as Richmond and Roanoke.
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07 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
I would recommended Mr Courtnall b/c he had helped my Uncle with a Federal Case that consisted of series of Robberies where my Uncle was accused of being a leader of a "violent" hispanic gang which he was not. We hired him 1 day (that Friday and Court MONDAY) before my Uncle was set for a Jury Trial and Mr Courtnall is a busy man but his Office Manager and other Assistants helped us throughout the whole process even accommodating us on a Saturday & Sunday although they are closed on weekends. My uncle was convicted of Conspiracy and all the robberies and gun charges were dropped. He was given a 5 years sentence and we are happy as his co-def all got 35+ Years ....... He also helped my friends Uncle win a Jury verdict to dismiss Murder Charge and lower it to Voluntary Manslaughter and he only got 1 years ... I love his services and his Office like I said Busy but they do have prompt service and Mr Courtnall has good knowledge of Criminal and Traffic cases both State and Federal ........ We even were given his personal cell number and email and kept in touch regularly ...He's as good if not better then Whitestone and Associates and very very reasonable prices
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Federal Crime Lawyer Can Do for You
A federal crime lawyer specializes in defending individuals or organizations accused of violating federal laws. These lawyers have experience navigating the complex federal criminal justice system, which includes higher penalties, stricter sentencing guidelines, and a different court system than state-level crimes. Federal crime lawyers defend clients against a wide range of charges, such as drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, fraud, conspiracy, gun violations, and more. They assist in every phase of the legal process, from investigation to trial and appeals, ensuring their clients' rights are protected.
If you’re facing federal criminal charges, a federal crime lawyer can provide the necessary defense and expertise to navigate the complexities of federal law and achieve the best possible outcome.
When Should I Hire a Federal Crime Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a federal crime lawyer in any situation where you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal crime. Key scenarios include:
- Charged with a federal crime: If you’ve been charged with a federal offense, such as drug trafficking, wire fraud, money laundering, or conspiracy, hiring a federal crime lawyer is essential to ensure your defense is tailored to federal court procedures and laws.
- Target of a federal investigation: If you are being investigated by federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, or IRS, it’s crucial to retain a lawyer early on. A lawyer can help you avoid self-incrimination and build a defense strategy to counter the investigation.
- White-collar crimes: If you’ve been accused of federal white-collar crimes such as securities fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading, a lawyer can help defend you against charges brought by federal prosecutors and regulatory agencies like the SEC.
- Drug-related charges: If you’re facing federal drug charges, such as possession, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances, a lawyer can represent you in federal court and negotiate plea deals or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Gun-related offenses: If you’ve been charged with federal gun crimes, including illegal possession, trafficking, or using a firearm during a violent crime, a federal crime lawyer can help defend against harsh federal penalties.
- Immigration-related crimes: Federal charges involving immigration violations, such as human trafficking, smuggling, or illegal re-entry after deportation, require specialized legal knowledge of both federal criminal law and immigration law.
- Appeals: If you’ve been convicted of a federal crime and are seeking to appeal the conviction or sentence, a federal crime lawyer can assist with the appeals process, focusing on legal errors or issues that may have occurred during the trial.
Hiring a lawyer as soon as you know you are under investigation or charged with a federal crime gives you the best chance of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.
What Does a Federal Crime Lawyer Do?
A federal crime lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to defend individuals and organizations accused of federal crimes. Their responsibilities often include:
- Defending clients in federal court: Federal crime lawyers represent clients in all stages of federal criminal proceedings, including pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Building a defense strategy: Lawyers thoroughly investigate the charges, review the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to the unique aspects of federal law and sentencing guidelines.
- Negotiating plea deals: In some cases, a lawyer may negotiate with federal prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties, potentially avoiding a lengthy trial and reducing sentencing.
- Handling federal investigations: If you are the subject of a federal investigation, a lawyer will guide you on how to interact with federal agents, respond to subpoenas, and handle potential interrogations, ensuring your rights are not violated.
- Filing pre-trial motions: Federal crime lawyers can file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge the legality of the investigation or arrest, aiming to weaken the prosecution’s case before trial.
- Representing clients in appeals: If you’ve been convicted, a federal crime lawyer can represent you in the appeals process, focusing on legal errors, misconduct, or constitutional issues that may have affected the trial’s outcome.
- Managing sentencing and post-conviction matters: Lawyers also help clients during the sentencing phase, arguing for leniency or alternatives to imprisonment, and assist with post-conviction matters such as parole or supervised release violations.
How Are Federal Crime Lawyers Paid?
Federal crime lawyers typically charge for their services in various ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the expected time commitment. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many federal crime lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience, the case complexity, and geographic location.
- Flat fee: For specific services, such as negotiating a plea deal or representing you during the initial stages of a federal investigation, some lawyers offer a flat fee. Flat fees for federal criminal defense cases often range from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the scope of the work.
- Retainer: In complex federal cases, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers a portion of the legal work. The lawyer then bills against this retainer as they work on the case. Retainers typically range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the case.
- Payment plans: Some federal crime lawyers may offer payment plans, especially if the case involves extended litigation or lengthy appeals. This can help make legal fees more manageable over time.
It’s crucial to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to understand the total cost of representation and how payments will be handled throughout the case.
How Much Does a Federal Crime Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a federal crime lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time required to resolve the case. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Federal crime lawyers generally charge between $300 and $1,000 per hour. For example, if a lawyer charges $500 per hour and spends 50 hours on your case, the total cost would be $25,000.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as negotiating a plea deal, flat fees can range from $5,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the seriousness of the charges and the lawyer’s experience.
- Retainers: In more complex or ongoing cases, a lawyer may require a retainer of $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the case’s scope and complexity.
- Appeals: If you’re appealing a federal conviction, legal fees for an appeal can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the issues being raised and the length of the appellate process.
In addition to legal fees, you may also need to cover additional costs such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation expenses.
Top Questions to Ask a Federal Crime Lawyer
Before hiring a federal crime lawyer, it’s essential to ask key questions to ensure they have the necessary experience and qualifications to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with federal cases?
Ensure the lawyer has extensive experience handling federal criminal cases, particularly those similar to yours, such as drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, or gun violations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost of your defense. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes, including plea deals, dismissals, or trial strategies. -
What is your approach to defending federal cases?
Ask how the lawyer plans to approach your defense, including potential pre-trial motions, negotiations with federal prosecutors, or trial strategies. -
Will my case go to trial?
Ask whether the lawyer thinks your case will settle out of court through a plea deal or whether it’s expected to go to trial, and how the lawyer will prepare for either scenario. -
How long will my case take?
Federal cases can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer for an estimated timeline, from investigation to trial or settlement. -
What are the possible penalties if convicted?
Ask about the potential penalties you could face if convicted, including prison time, fines, or other consequences, and how the lawyer plans to mitigate those penalties.
How to Check the Credibility of a Federal Crime Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable federal crime lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Look for federal crime experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in federal criminal defense 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 have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on federal cases.
- Check for federal court admissions: Make sure the lawyer is admitted to practice in federal court, as federal criminal cases are handled in federal district courts.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a federal crime lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the charges or investigation: Provide any documents related to the charges against you, such as indictments, subpoenas, or notices of investigation. This helps the lawyer assess the severity of the charges and the potential defense strategy.
- Details of previous interactions with federal agents: If federal agents have contacted you or conducted searches, provide a detailed account of those interactions, including search warrants, interrogations, or evidence seized.
- Questions about your case: Prepare a list of questions regarding the legal process, potential outcomes, and how the lawyer plans to defend you.
- Relevant financial information: If your case involves financial crimes or assets that may be at risk, bring relevant financial records, such as bank statements, business records, or tax returns.
- Previous legal history: If you have a prior criminal record or have been involved in federal investigations before, bring details about those cases.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal defense for your federal case.
